AgapeSLO

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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,

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

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!

THIS-FUNCTIONAL FAMILY Raising Kingdom Kids | Craig Wendel Psalm 127:3-5 (New Living Translation) Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (New Living Translation) For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. KINGDOM TACTICS FOR RAISING KIDS 1. Amusement is not top priority. Parents call the shots. You are the leader. 2. Believe that you deserve to be respected Setup clear expectations Practice Pray for an obedient heart 3. Routine and boundaries provide a sanctuary BOUNDARY STARTER KIT Make it clear Be consistent Make it helpful 4. Building a boat to launch. 5. Make church, the Bible and prayer normal Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (New Living Translation) And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Deuteronomy 6:6 (New Living Translation) And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children.

Family is a gift from God, but it comes with challenges. In this series, we explore family life's messy realities—starting with the family you're born into, the one you marry into, and the one built through friendships. We'll discuss parenting, growth, and blended families, all while focusing on God's purpose for our families. Whether your family is imperfect, blended, or broken, God has a plan for it. Let's embrace God's plan for family and move from dysfunctional to THIS-Functional! **Foundational Scripture:** Proverbs 24:3 (NCV) "It takes wisdom to have a good family, and it takes understanding to make it strong."**Six Unchanging Principles for Families** 1. **Our families are built on a foundation of love** 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV) Love is a choice to be patient, kind, and forgiving daily. 2. **Our families should be high touch** Mark 10:13-16 (ESV) Jesus showed the importance of affirmative touch. Physical touch promotes healing (Mark 6:56). 3. **Our families prioritize time together** Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV) Time is precious. The average dad spends only 37 seconds of meaningful time with kids daily. 4. **In our families, words should give blessing and encouragement** Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) The tongue has the power of life and death. Positive words are key to building strong relationships. 5. **Godly families leave an inheritance** Proverbs 13:22 (NIV) Inheritance can be financial, honorable, or spiritual. Your legacy matters. 6. **You'll never be a perfect parent, but you can be a praying parent** James 5:16 (NIV) The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. **Goal:** My family will fulfill God's will and purpose for their lives. Psalm 138:8 (NLT) "The Lord will work out his plans for my life..." **Closing:** Healthy families are built with wisdom and understanding (Proverbs 24:3). By applying biblical principles, our families can grow in love, grace, and faith through every season of life.

1. The Church family thrives in unity. - Attitude of humility2. Unity is accomplished when we have humble minds.- we>ME- Attitude of gentleness3. Unity is accomplished when we exhibit gentleness. - Attitude of Patience4. Unity is accomplished through PATIENCE.

your heart is where you experience joy. In Hebrew, to be happy is to be “good of heart” or to have a “heart of joy.” So the heart is the generator of physical life. It's also the center of your intellectual and emotional life. And there's more. In biblical Hebrew, the heart is where you make choices motivated by your desires. So David had it “in his heart” to build a temple for God Your heart is where your affections are centered. They're called “the desires of your heart.” And if you really want something and go after it, it's like what Nathan said to David, “whatever is in your heart, go and do it.”Then the heart is the center of all parts of human existence. As in the well-known Proverb, “guard your heart because from it flows your whole life.”

SHEMA: LoveAHAVAH refers to the kind of affection or care that one person shows another. LORD -the one who was, who is and who will be God's love originates from God's own character. God's love has no end because it has no beginning God's love has no end because it HAS NO BEGINNING. God's love is an eternal fact of the universe. AHAVAH is one of the strongest things that God feels. God's love is also an action. God chooses (an action) to love.' God's love is something God does.  In the ‘SHEMA‘, God calls Israel to respond to His AHAVAH by showing Ahavah in return.  If I am not doing what the Lord asks in Deuteronomy 10 then, I don't actually love God… I just say I do!  I show my love for God by how I treat the people around me. We are to imitate God's ahavah by showing ahavah for others. We love [AHAVAH] because God first loved [AHAVAH] us. – 1 John 4:19 

YHWH / LORDThe Bible has lots of different titles for God. Which should we use? Explore the many names of God and the significance of the one used in the Shema. This week we focus on the ancient Hebrew prayer, the Shema, with a closer look at the first word in the prayer, shema, meaning 'listen'.

THE MAINTENANCE OF “IMMEASURABLY MORE”Murmuring is a subdued or private expression of discontent or dissatisfaction.WHY DOES GOD HAVE AN ISSUE WITH MURMURINGMURMURING is not a tool for building, MURMURING is gaining followers.

**IMMEASURABLY MORE***Pillars, Bread, & Seed***Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)***Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…*In 1519, Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico with a small army, greatly outnumbered. He issued the bold command: *BURN THE SHIPS!*—making retreat impossible. This decision set the stage for their mission's success.**First Principle of Immeasurably More:**When following God's vision, **there is no plan B!****2 Kings 4:1-7 (NIV)**The widow of a prophet seeks Elisha's help. She has nothing but a small jar of olive oil. Elisha tells her to gather empty jars and pour the oil into them. The oil miraculously keeps flowing until all jars are filled. Elisha instructs her to sell the oil, pay her debts, and live on the remainder.**The Pillars of Immeasurably More:**1. **Surrender:** The widow surrendered to God's plan through Elisha. Whatever God asks of us, He has already placed the seed for it “in our house.”*God's desire is not to take from us but to give to us.* Surrendering is not just agreeing, but fully committing to God's call.2. **Trust:** "ALL IN" invites us to trust God, both individually and as a community, to accomplish His vision through us.3. **Generosity:** Generosity is a commitment to always give God your best. Father Joseph Damien, who served lepers on Molokai and eventually contracted the disease, demonstrated this with his life. He gave selflessly, even to the point of sacrifice.**2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 10-11 (NIV)***Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously...*God will provide for us, increasing our seed and multiplying our harvest, so we can be generous on every occasion.**Jehovah Jireh – The Lord Will Provide**God provides everything we need. Some is *seed* to be sown, and some is *bread* for consumption. It's our job to discern the difference.*Don't sow your bread, and don't consume your seed.***The Principles of Sowing & Reaping:***Seed* is too small to satisfy our needs but has potential for a harvest. *Bread* is for immediate consumption. Wisdom lies in sowing the right thing at the right time.**Immeasurably More Requires Sacrifice****Primary Goal:** 100% participation in surrender and trust. We want everyone at Agape Church to join this vision, united in purpose.**Impact & Opportunity Goal:** $75,000 in generosity and sacrifice to fund the vision God has given us over the next 51 days.Now is the time to act in faith and invest in God's plan for Agape Church.

IMMEASURABLY MORE The Blessing of TithingTITHING IS A VALUABLE WEAPON GOD HAS GIVEN US TO MEET OUR NEEDS. Malachi 3:6-10 (NIV) “I the Lord do not change... Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse... Test me in this... see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”Tithing means giving 10%—the first 10% belongs to God and is holy.Obedience starts with the tithe; anything above is an offering.The Background Story The people faced drought and pestilence due to disobedience, indicating that heaven, not the world, was their problem.IMMEASURABLY MORE PRINCIPLES True financial prosperity includes soul transformation. God invites us to return to His commands.ERRONEOUS THINKING ABOUT TITHING Some say tithing is only for the Old Testament, but Abraham tithed to Melchizedek before the Law. Hebrews 7:11-18 shows Jesus continues that priesthood. We give to honor God, as seen in Deuteronomy 14:23. Giving is an expression of gratitude. 1 Corinthians 10:26 says, “The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.” Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us that God gives us the ability to produce wealth. We give to teach ourselves to trust God (Hebrews 11:6). God is our source; resources should not control us. Generational blessings stem from our godly decisions. 2 Samuel 7:11-13 shows God's promise to David extends to his descendants, illustrating how our good choices can impact future generations. We give to demonstrate God's love through generosity.

SUCCESS MISMANAGED leads to destruction.THE 9 QUESTION PRIDE TEST1.    Do you need a lot of attention? 2.   Do you become jealous or critical of people who succeed?3.   Do you always have to win? 4.   Do you have a pattern of lying? 5.   Do you have a hard time confessing you were wrong? 6.   Do you consistently have conflicts with other people? 7.    Do you feel like rules apply to others? 8.   Are you teachable? 9.   Do you often have an attitude of entitlement? INDICATORS ABOUT PRIDEPride believes holy things can be TREATED LIGHTLY or with DISRESPECT.Pride becomes ANGRY WHEN CORRECTED by godly voices. You either HOLD ONTO HUMILITY and allow God to lift you up, or you PAMPER PRIDE and God knocks you down.

Shame is meant to permanently destroy the faith required to live in the truth of our Identity in Christ. How to Win the SHAME GAME: 1. Confess and surrender to God. 2. Commit to embrace your identity in Christ 3. Seek a supportive community.

Common types of Relational Wounds, their effects and how to overcome them

BURNOUT is a state of EMOTIONAL, PHYSICAL and MENTAL EXHAUSTION caused by PROLONGED AND EXCESSIVE STRESS, often related to work or other significant responsibilities.  OVERLOAD – when we are doing too much against the capacity that we have to do it DIFFERENT KINDS OF OVERLOAD- ACTIVITY Overload - CHANGE Overload - CHOICE Overload - COMMITMENT Overload - DEBT Overload - INFORMATION Overload STRATEGIES TO OVERCOME BURNOUT1. PRIORITIZE REST AND SABBATH (Genesis 2:2-3; Matthew 11:28-30)2. RELY ON GOD'S STRENGTH, NOT YOUR OWN (Isaiah 40:31)3. PRACTICE SPIRITUAL RENEWAL (Romans 12:2 )    4. STAY CONNECTED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY (Hebrews 10:24-25; Galatians 6:2)