Avalon Church

God's story that began before the world was created was a hidden mystery that was finally revealed in Jesus. Series: A Beautiful Mess, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 2 Peter 3:15-16, 1 Corinthians 2:6-9, 1 Corinthians 2:16, John 15:5, 1 Corinthians 2:9, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C72fhYn6y1E, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/a-beautiful-mess-the-mystery-of-god-week-5/, Discussion Questions: 2021-10-31_A-Beautiful-Mess_Week-5_DQ.pdf, Notes: Title Slide ... This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him—speaking of these things in all of his letters. Some of his comments are hard to understand, and those who are ignorant and unstable have twisted his letters to mean something quite different, just as they do with other parts of Scripture. – 2 Peter 3:15-16 (NLT) Translation Slide Yet when among mature believers, [we] do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God—his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” –1 Corinthians 2:6-9 (NLT) “[It's] the moment when the great melody of history has begun to be heard in a major key instead of a minor one.” –NT Wright, Paul for Everyone: 1 Corinthians But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ. –1 Corinthians 2:16b (NLT) I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. –John 15:5 (NLT) That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” –1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) Baptism Slide Communion Slide

The power of the gospel is often revealed in the ordinary, weak, and foolish. Series: A Beautiful Mess, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, Galatians 6:14, 2 Corinthians 5:5, Galatians 5:22-23, Video: https://youtu.be/vrrdUjSZ2C4, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/a-beautiful-mess-gods-power-is-revealed-in-weakness-week-4/, Discussion Questions: 2021-10-24_A-Beautiful-Mess_Week-4_DQ.pdf, Notes: Title Slide Map Ways to Participate AvalonChurch.org/Commentary 1 And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God's power. My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. – 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 (NIV) Vs. 1 Vs. 3 Vs. 2 May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. –Galatians 6:14 (NIV) The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what's ahead. He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we'll never settle for less. –2 Corinthians 5:5 (The Msg) Vss. 4-5 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. –Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

Pastor William Nieto leads us in studying 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 and why the Gospel is foolishness to those who are perishing. Series: A Beautiful Mess, Speaker: Pastor William Nieto, Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Video: https://youtu.be/kHUlBqOU1mM, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/a-beautiful-mess-the-foolishness-of-the-gospel-week-3/

As Paul begins his discussion concerning disunity in the Corinthian church, it has striking similarities to today. Series: A Beautiful Mess, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:10-17, Acts 18:27-28, Video: https://youtu.be/9UykHXRZ3LU, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/a-beautiful-mess-unitiy-week-2/, Discussion Questions: 2021-10-10_A-Beautiful-Message_Week-2_DQ.pdf, Notes: Title Slide New ways to Participate slide I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Cephas”; still another, “I follow Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 so no one can say that you were baptized in my name. (Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don't remember if I baptized anyone else.) For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. – 1 Cor. 1:10-17 (NIV) (repeat verses 10-12) Map When Apollos arrived [in Corinth in Achaia], he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. 28 For he vigorously refuted his Jewish opponents in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Messiah. –Acts 18:27-28 (NIV) (repeat verses 13-17) Closing Prayer

This message introduces 1 Corinthians and Paul's brilliant framing of what happens when Christ is put in the center of our lives. Series: A Beautiful Mess, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:1, 1 Corinthians 1:2, 1 Corinthians 1:3, Video: https://youtu.be/dHYSXsfEves, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/a-beautiful-mess-intro-week-1/, Discussion Questions: 2021-10-03_Beautiful-Mess_Week-1_DQ.pdf, Notes: New Prayer Card slide “Ways to Participate” (1-2) Ways to Participate” (3) – Bible Project Ways to Participate (4) – NT Wright Commentary 1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes, –1 Corinthians 1:1 (NIV) 2 To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be his holy people, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ—their Lord and ours: –1 Corinthians 1:2 (NIV) 3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. –1 Corinthians 1:3 (NIV) Map – overview Map – Corinth up close 4 I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.–1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— 1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) 6 God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. –1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) 7 Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. –1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. –1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) 9 God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. –1 Cor.1:4 (NIV) Ways to Participate (overview)

May every Life Group be inspired to leave the comfort and security of attending church and go together to bless the world. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: John 13:34, Ephesians 4:11, Ephesians 4:12, Ephesians 4:13, Ephesians 4:16, Video: https://youtu.be/dGRXD_qghx0, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-week-7/, Discussion Questions: 2021-09-26_Follow-Me_Week-7_DQ.pdf, Notes: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt.22:37-39, NIV). “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (Jn 13:34, NIV) Minimum Functions of a Church (slide from last week) 11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. –Ephesians 4:11 (NLT) 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. –Ephesians 4:12 (NLT) 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. –Ephesians 4:13 (NLT) 16 From Christ the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. –Ephesians 4:16 (NLT) Jesus' body was blessed to be broken and broken to be given. Joanna Han Jenny Chau Joe Chau

The Church is God's family. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 22:37-39, John 13:34, Luke 5:20, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xg9Azu9uCLg, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-what-community-looks-like-week-6/, Discussion Questions: 6-What-Community-Looks-Like-DQ.pdf, Notes: 1. AvalonChurch.org/Groups 2. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matthew 22:37-39, NIV). 3. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (John 13:34, NIV) 4. “The Chosen” video clip 5.  When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” –Luke 5:20 (NIV) 6. Minimum Functions of a. Church slide 7. “Chinwendu and Chinazom Enyioha” 8. AvalonChurch.org/Groups

Worship is being transformed into Christ's likeness together. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: John 13:34, Romans 12:2, Video: https://youtu.be/gM88GEHFULI, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-what-worship-looks-like-week-5/, Discussion Questions: 5-What-Worship-looks-like-DQ.pdf, Notes: 1. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt.22:37-39, NIV).

Each of us in community exists to life as Jesus' tangible presence in the world. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: John 1:14, John 8:1-11, John 13:34, Matthew 8:2-3, Matthew 8:5-7, Matthew 9:10-11, Matthew 9:12-13, 1 Thessalonians 2:8, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PLHciECSHvU, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-living-incarnationally-week-4/, Discussion Questions: 4-Living-Incarnationally-DQ.pdf, Notes: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt.22:37-39, NIV). “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (Jn 13:34, NIV) Euangelion, disciple, ecclesia AvalonChurch.org/PrayerCard Zach and Meredith El Zahab In the beginning was the Word (Logos), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. –John 1:1 (NIV) The Word became flesh [human] and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. –John 1:14 (NIV) Incarnation Church Sign 1: Hell-fire Church sign 2: Do you hear me now? Church sign 3: Do you know what hell is? Church sign 4: Don't dishonor... A man with leprosy… said, “If you are willing, you can heal me.  Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,”   (Matthew 8:2-3 NLT) A Roman officer came and pleaded with him, 6 “Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.”  7 Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.” (Matthew 8:5-7 NLT) While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” (Matthew 9:10-11 NLT) “Healthy people don't need a doctor—sick people do.” Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.' For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” – Matthew 9:12-13 (NLT) We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too.  1 Thessalonians 2:8 (NLT)

Followers of Jesus are part of a Kingdom-community that exists to live out God's original purpose for humanity. It is our responsibility to intentionally GO and GROW together. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Acts 2:42-47, John 13:34, Acts 2:43, Acts 2:44-45, Acts 2:46, Acts 2:47, John 17:21, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIMJP_GDF44, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-week-3/, Discussion Questions: 2021-08-29_Follow-Me_Week-3_DQ.pdf, Notes: 1. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt.22:37-39, NIV). 2. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (Jn 13:34, NIV) 3. Prayer Card: AvalonChurch.org/PrayerCard, Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/avalonchurchprayer 4. All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer. –Acts 2:42 (NLT) 5. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. –Acts 2:43 (NLT) 6.  And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. –Acts 2:44-45 (NLT) 7. They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— Acts 2:46 (NLT) 8. all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. –Acts 2:47 (NLT) 9. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. –John 17:21 (NLT) 10. Ecclesia 11. Church is the gathered followers ...for worship (becoming like Jesus) ...in community (Loving one another) ...on mission (loving and blessing the world)

Following Jesus is not something you do, it's a person you become... a person just like Jesus. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Luke 6:40, Rom 8:28-29, Matthew 22:37-39, John 13:34-35, Romans 8:29, Luke 5:15-16, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWw96RaGCio, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-week-2/, Notes: Prayer Card: AvalonChurch.org/PrayerCard 1. ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. 39  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' (Matt.22:37-39, NIV). 2. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (Jn 13:34, NIV) 3. Disciple = student, apprentice 4. 40 Students (disciples) are not greater than their teacher. But the student who is fully trained will become like the teacher. –Luke 6:40 (NLT) 5. 29  For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son. –Romans 8:29 (NLT) 6. The extent to which we know Jesus is our limit to becoming like him. 7. 15  But despite Jesus' instructions [to be quiet], the report of his power spread even faster, and vast crowds came to hear him preach and to be healed of their diseases. 16  But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer. –Luke 5:15-16 (NLT) 8. You cannot give what you do not possess.

In a world where following Jesus is equated with “going to church,” the goal of this series is to recapture Jesus' idea of what it means to follow him and take responsibility together for becoming like him. Series: Follow Me: Transformed Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Luke 4:14-21, Video: https://youtu.be/Sj0XehMLBg4, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/follow-me-week-1/, Discussion Questions: 1-Good-News-DQ.pdf, Notes: Prayer Card: https://avalonchurch.org/PrayerCard

We take a look at Jesus' differing responses to Mary and Martha concerning what is most important... hurry or relationships. Series: ReCreate, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Luke 10:38-42, Matthew 11:28-30, Video: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyCJKpdz3lA2YnZTvE3Neng/live, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/recreate-hurry-is-incompatible-with-relationship-week-2/, Discussion Questions: 2021-05-09-Week-2-DQ-Mothers-Day-2021.pdf, Notes: Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)28  “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”Hurry DevotionLuke 10:38-42 (NLT)38 As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home.39 Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught.40 But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”41 But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details!42 There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.”Kosuke Koyama quoteHow much do I care about the things I should care about? 

Hurry is the great enemy of a vibrant spiritual life. That's why Jesus invites us to come to him, all who tired and weary. In him is rest and ReCreation.Series: ReCreate, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 11:28-30:, James 1:8, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/1815784508579275, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/recreate-the-hurry-problem-week-1/, Discussion Questions: 2021-05-02-1-DQ-ReCreate-Intro.pdf,Notes: Matthew 11:28-3028 “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” – Matthew 11 (NLT)Matthew 11:28-30, The MessageWhen your loyalty is divided between God and the world, you are unstable in everything you do. –James 1:8 (NLT)“The Jesus way wedded to the Jesus truth brings about the Jesus life.” –Eugene Peterson, The Jesus WayThe Silver Chair, C.S. LewisHurry Devo - AvalonChurch.org/HurryDevo

3 Warning Signs to live out Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 7:12-23, James 2:17, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/live, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-warning-signs-part-14/, Discussion Questions: 2021-04-25-14-DQ-Warning-Signs.pdf, Notes: 24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. –Matthew 7 (NIV) 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. –Matthew 7 (NIV)12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. –Matthew 7 (NIV)13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. –Matthew 7 (NIV)14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. –Matthew 7 (NIV)15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. –Matthew 7 (NIV)16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thorn bushes, or figs from thistles? –Matthew 7 (NIV)17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. –Matthew 7 (NIV)18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. –Matthew 7 (NIV)19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. –Matthew 7 (NIV)20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. –Matthew 7 (NIV)21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. –Matthew 7 (NIV)22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' –Matthew 7 (NIV)23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' –Matthew 7 (NIV)Question 1 SlideWhat We Usually Ask:* If you were to die tonight, do yo know for certain that you'd go to be with God in heaven?* If Jesus returned today, would you be ready to meet God?Question 2 SlideWhat We Should Consider Asking:* If you were to live another fifty years, what kind of person would you like to become--and how will you become that kind of person?* If Jesus doesn't return for thousands of years, what kind of world does he want us to work towards?...faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. –James 2:17 (NIV)13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. –Matthew 7 (NIV)15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. –Matthew 7 (NIV)16 By their fruit you will recognize them. –Matthew 7 (NIV)21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. –Matthew 7 (NIV)22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' –Matthew 7 (NIV)23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' –Matthew 7 (NIV)

Jesus invites us to a new perspective on who and why he invites to ask, seek and knock.Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 7:7-11, Matthew 7:7-8, James 1:6-7, John 14:13-14, James 4:3, 1 John 5:14-15, Ephesians 1:17, Jeremiah 29:13, Revelation 3:20, 1 John 3:1, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/360149018748129, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-you-cant-always-get-what-you-want-part-13/, Discussion Questions: 2021-04-18-PART-13-DQ-The-Upside-Down-LIfe.pdf, Notes: Sermon Image 1Sermon Image 27 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!– Matthew 7:7-11 NIV7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. – Matthew 7:7-8 NIV6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. – James 1:6-7 NIV13 And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. – John 14:13-14 NIV3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. – James 4:3 NIV14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. – 1 John 5:14-15 NIVSermon Image 1 (again)Sermon Image 2 (again)7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 9 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!– Matthew 7:7-11 NIVWho does Jesus Invite? Those who don't know God as loving, interactive, or relationalWho does Jesus Invite?Those who don't know God as loving, interactive, or relational.Those who know God but don't trust him17 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. – Ephesians 1:17 NIV13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. – Jeremiah 29:13 NIV20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. – Revelation 3:20 NIVWho does Jesus Invite?Those who don't know God as loving, interactive, or relationalThose who know God but don't trust himThose who are angry with GodSermon Image 3 [Forgiveness chart]See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!– 1 John 3:1 NIV

Judging people is probably what the church is most known for in our culture. We need to be reminded of Jesus' posture when it comes to pointing out other's faults. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5, Romans 15:5-6, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFOlIGzo9uM, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-judging-others-part-12/, Discussion Questions: 2021-04-11-PART-11-DQ-Judging-others.pdf, Notes: Starry Night1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. – Matthew 7 (NIV)2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7 (NIV)3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? – Matthew 7 (NIV)4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? – Matthew 7 (NIV)5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. – Matthew 7 (NIV)1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. – Matthew 7 (NIV)CartoonJesus did not call us to be right, he called us to be light.5 May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. 6 Then all of you can join together with one voice, giving praise and glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. –Romans 15:5-6

This Easter we are reminded how God sees the world. We remember what happened to Jesus on Day 3 after the worst day ever. Easter is about hope, even in our worst days. Easter reminds us that God is working, bringing new life, new creation, and resurrection. Series: Easter Service, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9d5JtP9buFk, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/easter-service-april-4-2021/, Discussion Questions: 2021-04-04-DQ-Easter-2021.pdf

It's possible to be close to religion, and yet still miss God. Series: Palm Sunday Service, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 21:1-9, Mark 11:1-10, Luke 19:29-38, John 12:12-15, Zechariah 9:9, Zechariah 9:10, Jeremiah 31, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tDzhFxGacBM, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/palm-sunday-march-28-2021/, Discussion Questions: 2021-03-28-DQ-Palm-Sunday-2021.pdf, Notes: Palm Sunday Accounts: Matthew 21:1-9, Mark 11:1-10, Luke 19:29-38, John 12:12-15“9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. –Zechariah 9:9 (NIV)“He will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the warhorse from Jerusalem. The bow used in battle will be broken; he will speak peace to the nations. His rule will stretch from sea to sea, and from the river to the ends of the Earth.” –Zechariah 9:1031 “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. –Jeremiah 31 (NIV)32 It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord. –Jeremiah 31 (NIV)33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. –Jeremiah 31 (NIV)34 No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. –Jeremiah 31 (NIV)Maundy ThursdayGood Friday (G-Drive)Easter Sunday

Jesus encourages his followers not to worry, but to trust that God is their Provider. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 6:25-34, Philippians 4:6-7, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYEiwwzh4vg, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-anxious-for-nothing-part-11/, Discussion Questions: 2021-03-21-PART-10-DQ-Anxious-for-Nothing.pdf, Notes: 25 “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing? – Matthew 6 (NLT)26 Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? – Matthew 6 (NLT)27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? – Matthew 6 (NLT)28 “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, – Matthew 6 (NLT29 yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. – Matthew 6 (NLT)30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? – Matthew 6 (NLT)China Flowers – YellowHolland Flowers – Tulips/WindmillNew Zealand – water/MountainCalifornia – Orange and YellowJapan – Blue flowers and tree31 “So don't worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' – Matthew 6 (NLT32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. – Matthew 6 (NLT)33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. – Matthew 6 (NLT)34 “So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. – Matthew 6 (NLT)6 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. –Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)Coral reef. N. LightsDesertIce CaveFrog on PennyRylie

Jesus talks about what's most important to us and what shouldn't be so important. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 6:16-24, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1UBErVJ4R0, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-hidden-treasure-part-10/, Discussion Questions: 2021-03-14-PART-9-DQ-Hidden-Treasure.pdf, Notes: 16 “And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. –Matthew 6 (NLT)17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. –Matthew 6 (NLT)18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. –Matthew 6 (NLT)3...”I will tell you why!” “It's because you are fasting to please yourselves. Even while you fast, you keep oppressing your workers. –Is 58 (NLT)4 What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with me. –Is 58 (NLT)9 Then when you call, the Lord will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,' he will quickly reply. –Is 58 (NLT)19 “Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. –Matthew 6 (NLT)20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. –Matthew 6 (NLT)21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. –Matthew 6 (NLT)22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. –Matthew 6 (NLT)23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! –Matthew 6 (NLT)24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. –Matthew 6 (NLT)“An idol is usually a good thing that we make ultimate.” – Tim Keller

Jesus gives his followers a framework about how to pray. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 6:7-14, Matthew 6:9, Matthew 6:10, Matthew 6:11, Matthew 6:12, Matthew 6:13, Matthew 6:8, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjHNp9jFe7I, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-the-lords-prayer-part-9/, Discussion Questions: 2021-03-07-PART-8-DQ-The-Lords-Prayer-update.pdf, Notes: Words describing what the Church is like?Words describing what the Church should be like?Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, –Matthew 6:9 (NIV)Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. –Matthew 6:10 (NIV)Give us today our daily bread. –Matthew 6:11 (NIV)And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. –Matthew 6:12 (NIV)And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' –Matthew 6:13 (NIV)For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. –Matthew 6:7 (NIV)Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. –Matthew 6:8 (NIV)Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, –Matthew 6:9 (NIV)Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, –Matthew 6:9 (NIV)Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. –Matthew 6:10 (NIV)Give us today our daily bread. –Matthew 6:11 (NIV)And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. –Matthew 6:12 (NIV)And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' –Matthew 6:13 (NIV)Action Steps1. Pray it daily2. Memorize it3. Write your own prayerOur Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, –Matthew 6:9 (NIV)Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. –Matthew 6:10 (NIV)Give us today our daily bread. –Matthew 6:11 (NIV)And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. –Matthew 6:12 (NIV)And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' –Matthew 6:13 (NIV)

Liz Dickson leads us in the topic of "A Secret Place" from Matthew 6:1-6. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Liz Dickson, Scripture: Matthew 6:1-6, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzuDymEW8ww, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-the-secret-place-part-8/, Discussion Questions: 2021-02-28-PART-7-DQ-The-Upside-Down-Life.pdf

Pastor John Molloy leads us in a sermon on retaliation from Matthew 5:38-42 Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor John Molloy, Scripture: Matthew 5:38-42, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFJZsYnGzmQ, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-retaliation-part-7/

Jesus discusses the difficult issues of adultery and divorce.Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 5:27-37, 1 Corinthians 9:27, John 3:17, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8Maw1U9c8s, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-the-d-word-part-6/, Discussion Questions: 2021-02-14-PART-6-DQ-The-D-Word.pdf, Notes: Matthew 5:27-37 (NIV)“NT Teachings on Divorce”27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.' – Matthew 5 (NIV)28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. – Matthew 5 (NIV)29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. – Matthew 5 (NIV)30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. – Matthew 5 (NIV)“Our commitment to Jesus permits no desire without love.”27 I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. –1 Corinthians 9:27 (NLT)“Is there any relationship I have that makes you uncomfortable?” 31 “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' – Matthew 5 (NIV)32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. – Matthew 5 (NIV)Truth and Grace.God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. –John 3:17 (NLT)Savage Marriage slide

Jesus begins to illustrate how his followers are to live out the Kingdom ways starting with a discussion on murder, anger, and reconciliation. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 5:21-26, Matthew 5:17, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT-8YAOaNp8, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-reconciliation-part-5/, Discussion Questions: 2021-02-07-PART-5-DQ-Reconciliation.pdf, Notes: 17 I did not come to abolish the Law and the Prophets... I came to fulfill them. –Matt 5:1720 For unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. –Matt 5 (NIV)21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' –Matt 5 (NIV)22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister, will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of Gehenna. –Matt 5 (NIV)23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, –Matt 5 (NIV)24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. –Matt 5 (NIV)25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. –Matt 5 (NIV)26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. –Matt 5 (NIV)

Pastor Jim preaches from Matthew 5:17-20 on Christ Fulfilling the Law and our righteousness.Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 5:17-20, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-c5fE4qR3_Y, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-law-righteousness-part-4/Notes:17 “Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. 18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God's law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. 19 So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God's laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. 20 “But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! – Matthew 5:17-20 NLT Then the Lord took Abram outside and said to him, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That's how many descendants you will have!” 6 And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord counted him as righteous because of his faith. – Genesis 3:15 NLT Puzzle – Image 1 Puzzle – Image 2 Puzzle – Image 3 Puzzle – Image 4 Puzzle – Image 5 Puzzle – Image 6Jesus replied, “And why do you, by your traditions, violate the direct commandments of God? – Matthew 15:3 NLT Puzzle – Image 7 Puzzle – Image 8You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! – John 5:39 NLT Then he said, “When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled.” – Luke 24:44 NLT This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you. 11 They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ's suffering and his great glory afterward. 12 They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen. – 1 Peter 1:10-12 NLTFor Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God. – Romans 10:4 NLTJesus knew that his mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.” 29 A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to his lips. 30 When Jesus had tasted it, he said, “It is finished!” Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. – John 19:28-30 NLTAfter supper he took another cup of wine and said, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you.” – Luke 22:20 NLT6 But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises. 7 If the first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no need for a second covenant to replace it. 8 But when God found fault with the people, he said:                         (I'll just read verses 8b-12 for them)13 When God speaks of a “new” covenant, it means he has made the first one obsolete. It is now out of date and will soon disappear.  – Hebrews 8:6-13 NLT24 Let me put it another way. The law was our guardian until Christ came; it protected us until we could be made right with God through faith. 25 And now that the way of faith has come, we no longer need the law as our guardian. – Galatians 3:24-25 NLT So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law.  2 Listen! I, Paul, tell you this: If you are counting on circumcision to make you right with God, then Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3 I'll say it again. If you are trying to find favor with God by being circumcised, you must obey every regulation in the whole law of Moses. 4 For if you are trying to make yourselves right with God by keeping the law, you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God's grace. – Galatians 5:1-4 NLTFor the law was given through Moses, but God's unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. – John 1:17 NLT

The Beatitudes were the “Who?” of the Kingdom that Jesus immediately followed with the “What?” What are we called to? Salt and Light. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16, Luke 12:48, Matthew 5:13-15, Isaiah 51:4, 1 Peter 2:11-12, Luke 22:19, Matthew 26:27-28, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paSfCD9JCUE, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-salty-and-bright-part-3/, Discussion Questions: 2021-01-24-PART-3-DQ-Salty-and-Bright.pdf, Notes: Story of the Bible Video“When someone has been given much, much will be required in return.” Luke 12:48 (NLT)13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. –Matt 5 (NIV)14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. –Matt 5 (NIV)16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)Repeat Matt. 5:13-15 (NIV)Listen to me, my people; hear me, my nation: Instruction will go out from me; my justice will become a light to the nations. –Isaiah 51:4 (NIV)16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. –Matt 5 (NIV)“...12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NIV)Doug and Wendy Gohn video testimonyCommunion backgroundAnd he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” – Luke 22:19 (ESV)And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. –Matthew 26:27-28 (ESV)

Who is blessed by God? Jesus' answer is surely different than anyone could have expected. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 5:1-12, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/149106303523481, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-beatitudes-part-2/, Discussion Questions: 2021-01-17-PART-2-DQ-Beatitudes.pdf

The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus’ manifesto for the Kingdom. This introduction sets the stage for our new series “The Upside Down Life” where we explore Jesus’ Sermon section by section. Series: The Upside Down Life, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 7:24-29, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/2841175482792029/, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/the-upside-down-life-intro-part-1/, Discussion Questions: 2021-01-10_upside-down-life-part-1_discussion-questions.pdf

We must be careful that we are not crusading for righteousness without compassion for the sinner lest we forget that we all started out in the same place, in need of divine forgiveness. Second chances are for everyone! Series: New Year's Service, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Luke 7:36-50, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/223204939366431/, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/second-chances-new-years-message-january-3-2021/, Discussion Questions: 2021-01-03_second-changes.pdf

Join us as Pastor John Molloy leads us in finishing the God With Us series for Christmas 2020. Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor John Molloy, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/159464842627789/, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-december-27-2020-part-6/

Christmas Eve Service for 2020 at Avalon Town Park Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/848257122691917/, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-christmas-eve-service-2020-part-5/

The wise men responded to God’s gift of Jesus with gifts of their own. In this message, Pastor Don discusses how we, too, should respond to God’s amazing gift. Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/211209520575383, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-wise-men-part-4/, Sermon Notes: 2020-12-20_god-with-us-part-4_sermons-slides.pdf, Discussion Questions: 2020-12-20_god-with-us-part-4_discussion_questions.pdf, Notes: See PDF slides: https://www.avalonchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/sermons/2020/12/2020-12-20_god-with-us-part-4_sermons-slides.pdf

God created a family that eventually rebelled and ran away. But God wanted us back and was willing to do everything necessary to make that happen... even incarnation.Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: John 1:14, John 1:1-5, John 1:9-13, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWQhrS6vYcQ, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-skin-matters-part-3/, Discussion Questions: 2020-12-13_god-with-us-part-3_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: 1. Tu es special2. "Incarnation"3. "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." -John 1:14 (NIV)4. "The Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son," -John 1:14 (Msg)5. "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. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." –John 1:1-5 (NIV)6. "The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him." –John 1:9-11 (NIV)7. "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God." –John 1:12-13 (NIV)

Our story is often not what we want it to be, yet in the midst of our disappointment, weariness, and anxiety, God offers hope. Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Isaiah 7:4, Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 35:1-4, Isaiah 35:5-6, Hebrews 12:1-3, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2s7KckQBCns, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-fear-not-part-2/, Discussion Questions: 2020-12-06_god-with-us-fear-not-part-2_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: 1. "Be careful, keep calm and don’t be afraid. Do not lose heart..." -Isaiah 7:4 (NIV) 2. "For the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. –Isaiah 7:14 (NIV) 3. "Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days. The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers and singing and joy! The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon, there the Lord will display his glory, the splendor of our God. With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.”" -Isaiah 35:1-4 (NLT) 4. "And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf. The lame will leap like a deer, and those who cannot speak will sing for joy! Springs will gush forth in the wilderness, and streams will water the wasteland. –Isaiah 35:5-6 (NLT) 5. "...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." -Hebrews 12:1-3 (NIV)

When Isaiah promised the birth of a savior for the people of Israel, they didn’t know how long it would take to get the gift which was revealed in Jesus. Like a child waiting for Christmas morning, the believer can be confident that in due time, what God gives will not disappoint. Series: God With Us, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Isaiah 9:2-7, Micah 5:2, Isaiah 7:14, Psalms 72:10-11, Isaiah 9:1, Isaiah 9:6-7, Isaiah 35:5-6, Isaiah 53:3, Psalms 22:16-18, Zechariah 12:10, Isaiah 52:14, Isaiah 53:5, Isaiah 53:9, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P96gRsXHW7Y, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/god-with-us-prophets-version-of-the-story-part-1/, Discussion Questions: 2020-11-29_god-with-us_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: 1. The Prophet Micah revealed: But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf. –Micah 5:2 (NLT)2. A prophet named Isaiah also prophesied about this future king: Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. –Isaiah 7:14 (NLT)3. He will be so influential that: The western kings of Tarshish and other distant lands will bring him tribute. The eastern kings of Sheba and Seba will bring him gifts. 11 All kings will bow before him, and all nations will serve him. –Psalm 72:10-11 (NLT)4. Isaiah prophesied: Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles... will be filled with glory. –Isaiah 9:1 (NLT)5. Yet it was in Galilee that Isaiah said: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.–Isaiah 9:6-7 (NIV)6. But even more, when the King comes: And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf. 6 The lame will leap like a deer, and those who cannot speak will sing for joy! --Isaiah 35:5-6 (NLT)7. He was despised and rejected— a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. –Isaiah 53:3 (NLT)8. He said: My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. 17 I can count all my bones (none are broken). My enemies stare at me and gloat. They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing. –Psalm 22:16-18 (NLT)9. Zechariah uses similar imagery describing what Messiah will be like when he is killed: “Then I will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer on the family of David and on the people of Jerusalem. They will look on me whom they have pierced and mourn for him as for an only son.–Zech 12:10 (NLT)10. But many were amazed when they saw him. His face was so disfigured he seemed hardly human, and from his appearance, one would scarcely know he was a man. –Isaiah 52:14 (NLT)11. But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. 6 All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet the LORD laid on him the sins of us all. –Isaiah 53:5 (NLT)12. He had done no wrong and had never deceived anyone. But he was buried like a criminal; he was put in a rich man’s grave. –Isaiah 53:9 (NLT)

A Thanksgiving Message for 2020 Series: Thanksgiving Service, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2FlhN5fXFA, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/give-thanks-thanksgiving-message-november-22-2020/, Discussion Questions: 2020-11-22_give-thanks_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes:  

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor John Molloy leads us in Matthew 7.Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor John Molloy, Scripture: Matthew 7:7-29, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4auZjwkmUxw, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-part-11/ 

God is not taken by surprise by the upside-down times like we are experiencing in 2020. On the contrary, he offers incredible hope and direction. Series: , Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Jeremiah 29:4-7, 13-14; Romans 8:22-23; 12:9-21, Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6rJF2LVG-I, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/celebration-sunday-november-15-2020/, Discussion Questions: 2020-11-15_celebration-sunday_discussion-questions.pdf

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor Jim leads us in Matthew 6:25 - 7:6 to discussion cautions about worrying and judging. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 6:25-7:6, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/686170705666458, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-cautions-about-worrying-judging-matthew-625-76-part-10/

A Spiritual Conversation can happen in a moment, but it can also last for hours, days, weeks, months, years, or even decades. Pastor John Molloy leads us in how we can have spiritual conversations with friends, family, strangers and everyone else we meet. Series: Following Together, Speaker: Pastor John Molloy, Scripture: Acts 26:1-29, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/2841603039402028/, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/following-together-how-to-have-a-spiritual-conversation-part-12/, Sermon Notes: 2020-11-08_following-together-part-12_sermon-notes.pdf, Discussion Questions: 2020-11-08_following-together-part-12_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: See Sermon Notes PDF: https://www.avalonchurch.org/wp-content/uploads/sermons/2020/11/2020-11-08_following-together-part-12_sermon-notes.pdf

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor Jim leads us in Matthew 6:16-24 on Fasting, Treasures and Masters. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 6:16-24, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/370070490879741, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-fasting-treasures-masters-matthew-616-24-part-9/

While following Jesus is hearing and obeying, the Israelites are a constant example that it is impossible to do so in our own strength. We need to abide. Series: Following Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: 1 Peter 2:2-5, 1 Peter 2:9-10, 2 Corinthians 9:7-8, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/2575617775996499, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/following-together-living-sent-with-part-11/, Discussion Questions: 2020-11-01_following-together-part-11_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: 1. Living Sent “WITH” each other, not just “FOR” each other.2. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness. You are coming to Christ, who is the living cornerstone of God’s temple. He was rejected by people, but he was chosen by God for great honor. And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God. –1 Peter 2:2-5 (NLT)3. But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people. Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy. –1 Peter 2:9-10 (NLT)4. “The church is God’s people intentionally committing to die together so that others can find his kingdom.” Hugh Halter and Matt Smay in their book AND.5. Text the word “Team” to 407-559-82106. Celebration Sunday7. don@avalonchurch.org8. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. –2 Corinthians 9:7-8 (NLT)

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor Jim leads us in Matthew 6:9-15, discussing the Lord's Prayer. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 6:9-15, Video: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=667145743803276, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-the-lords-prayer-matthew-69-15-part-8/

Jesus calls us to live as if we are sent, because we are. Our identity as followers of Jesus is to be a people who live to bless. Series: Following Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: John 20:21, 1 Peter 2:11-12, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/373212407360167, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/following-together-live-sent-part-10/, Discussion Questions: 2020-10-25_following-together-part-10_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: 1. Tangible Kingdom2. "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you." –John 20:21 (NIV)3. Emperor Julian4. "It is disgraceful that when... the impious Galileans support not only their own poor but ours as well, all men see that our people lack aid from us." -Emperor Julian5. "Dear friends, I warn you as 'temporary residents and foreigners' to keep away from worldly desires that wage war against your very souls." –1 Peter 2 (NLT) 6. "Be careful to live properly among your unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will give honor to God when he judges the world." –1 Peter 2 (NLT)7. Action Step 1: Commit to Live Sent 8. Action Step 2: Actually Live Sent 9. More InformationLisa Hernandez - kids@avalonchurch.orgMike Smith - youth@avalonchurch.orgText "Teams" to 407-559-8210AvalonChurch.org/Teams10. Better Man Event11. Celebration Sunday12. Food Pantry Video13. Jennifer Campos and Hal Worrall

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor Jim leads us in Matthew 5:43 - 6:8, discussing how we are to love our enemy, who exactly is our "enemy" and living without hypocrisy. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 5:43 - 6:8, Matthew 5:47, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/417895235881914, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-love-your-enemy-living-without-hypocrisy-part-7/, Notes:  

While following Jesus is hearing and obeying, the Israelites are a constant example that it is impossible to do so in our own strength. We need to abide. Series: Following Together, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Exodus 19:3-20, Luke 11:28, Exodus 19:4, Exodus 19:5, Exodus 19:6, Exodus 19:7-8, Exodus 19:16, Exodus 19:18, Exodus 19:19, Exodus 19:20, Exodus 32:1, John 15:5, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/1240313883008582, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/following-together-responding-when-jesus-speaks-part-9/, Discussion Questions: 2020-10-18_following-together-part-9_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: Jesus said, Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and obey it. –Luke 11:28.... The Lord called to Moses from the mountain and said, “Give these instructions to thefamily of Jacob; announce it to the descendants of Israel: –Exodus 19:3 (NLT)‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians. You know how I carried you on eagles’ wingsand brought you to myself. –Exodus 19:4 (NLT)Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure fromamong all the peoples on earth; for all the earth belongs to me. –Exodus 19:5 (NLT)And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation.’ This is the message you must giveto the people of Israel.” –Exodus 19:6 (NLT)The people all responded together, “We will do everything the Lord has said.” So Mosesbrought their answer back to the Lord. Exodus 19:7-8 (NIV)On the morning of the third day, thunder roared and lightning flashed, and a dense cloudcame down on the mountain. There was a long, loud blast from a ram’s horn, and all thepeople trembled. –Exodus 19:16 (NLT)All of Mount Sinai was covered with smoke because the Lord had descended on it in theform of fire. The smoke billowed into the sky like smoke from a brick kiln, and the wholemountain shook violently. –Exodus 19:18 (NLT)As the blast of the ram’s horn grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God thunderedhis reply. –Exodus 19:19 (NLT)The Lord came down on the top of Mount Sinai and called Moses to the top of themountain. So Moses climbed the mountain. –Exodus 19:20 (NLT)When the people saw how long it was taking Moses to come back down the mountain,they gathered around Aaron. “Come on,” they said, “make us some gods who can lead us.We don’t know what happened to this fellow Moses, who brought us here from the land ofEgypt.” –Exodus 32:1 (NLT)“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear muchfruit; apart from me you can do nothing. –John 15:5 (NLT)Ask yourself: What is the focus of your story? How much of your story is Jesus’ story?

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week Pastor Don began the study with an overview of last week’s discussion on divorce, and then focused on Matthew 5:33-42 where we discussed “Oaths” and “Jesus’ update of an Eye for an Eye”. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Don Dodge, Scripture: Matthew 5:33-42, Video: https://www.facebook.com/avalonchurch/videos/646847892666280, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-oaths-matthew-533-42-part-6/

God has lots to reveal to us. Pastor Jim shares how God really is for us, wants us to experience life-changing truth, and might have much to say if we are available to anything and everything he wants to say. Series: Following Together, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Psalms 51:6, John 8:32, John 16:13, John 10:10, Romans 12:2, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/725713954698637, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/following-together-hearing-through-confession-part-8/, Discussion Questions: 2020-10-11_following-together-part-8_discussion-questions.pdf, Notes: With God it’s for, not from        Confession is not a bad word        All is more than you thinkWith God it’s for, not fromBehold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart. (Psalm 51:6 ESV)Confession is not a bad wordLiz DicksonAll is more than you thinkand you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free (John 8:32 ESV)When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (John 16:13 ESV)The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10 ESV)Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart. (Psalm 51:6 ESV)For, not from, so no fear        Confess – acknowledge and say out loud        Then ask and wait        Be available to everything and anything the Lord might revealHow do you discover the gray (or black) that needs light?What you feel reveals what you really believePonder what is not peaceful and calm inside?Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2 ESV)

An interactive study of the practical applications of the teachings of Jesus found in the Sermon on the Mount. This week we cover Matthew 5:27-32 on adultery, lust and divorce. Series: Midweek on a Mountain with Jesus, Speaker: Pastor Jim Groves, Scripture: Matthew 5:27-32, Video: https://www.facebook.com/202571889761757/videos/381689746533352, Webpage: https://www.avalonchurch.org/sermons/midweek-on-a-mountain-with-jesus-adultery-lust-divorce-matthew-527-32-part-5/