Calvary Chapel McKinney

Message Take Aways:1. King Ahab trusted in the deceptive words of false prophets rather than seeking the truth of God's word—“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting” Romans 1:282. King Ahab rejected the declaration of God's word delivered by Micaiah, who warned the king of his coming judgement—“They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the Lord of hosts.” Zechariah 7:123. King Ahab suffered destruction because of his proud refusal to heed God's warnings—“He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, Will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Proverbs 29:1

Message Take Aways:1. Paul warned Timothy to be on guard against apostasy that would arise in the form of false teaching and demonic doctrines—“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:12. Paul exhorted Timothy to engage in the disciplined activity of training himself in godliness—“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,” Titus 2:11-123. Paul charged Timothy to give careful attention to maintaining sound doctrine and cultivating a godly lifestyle to fulfill his ministry—“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews 6:11-12

Message Take Aways:1. Greed and envy led King Ahab and Jezebel to conspire against Naboth wrongly believing their evil would go unpunished—“A false witness will not go unpunished,And he who speaks lies shall perish.” Proverbs 19:92. The Lord saw the wicked conduct of King Ahab and Jezebel and, in response, issued a pronouncement of condemnation—“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” Hebrews 4:133. King Ahab responded to the word of the Lord with contrition resulting in mercy from the Lord—“Who is a God like You, Pardoning iniquity And passing over the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He does not retain His anger forever, Because He delights in mercy.” Micah 7:18 

Message Take Aways:1. The office of bishop, elder, or overseer is a sacred stewardship that entrusts one to shepherd the flock of God with honor and diligence—“Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” Acts 20:282. A deacon is to be a servant who selflessly ministers to the body of Christ with integrity and faithfulness—“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:103. The church is to be united in solidarity by acknowledging and aligning with the revealed truth of God's word—“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.” Colossians 2:6-7

Message Take Aways:1. King Ahab was confronted by a stubborn enemy who desired to enslave him and his people under a crushing yoke of bondage—“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.” John 10:102. In His radical mercy, the Lord God graciously granted victory in the ensuing conflicts, delivering His people from a cruel enemy and proving that He is worthy to be trusted—“I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised; So shall I be saved from my enemies.” Psalm 18:33. King Ahab chose to compromise rather than obey the Word of the Lord resulting in resentment, regret, and remorse—“For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10

Message Take Aways:1. Paul exhorts believers to pray for all people including those in authority and those outside the household of faith—“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-182. Paul reminds that God has designed men and women to serve in differing yet complementary positions within His created order—And the LORD God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” Genesis 2:18

Message Take Aways: 1. Paul recognized his responsibility to be a faithful steward of the Gospel by teaching sound doctrine motivated by love—“Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” 1 Corinthians 4:12. Paul celebrated the grace of God that had redeemed his life and thereby made him a testimony of God's mercy—“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.” 1 Corinthians 15:103. Paul charged Timothy to commit to the good fight of defending sound doctrine through his teaching and his lifestyle—“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.” 1 Peter 3:15-16

Message Take Aways:1. Elijah began running in fear once he took his mind off the Lord and focused instead on the threats of man—“You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:32. The manifestation of God's power and the revelation of His word brought hope to the weary prophet—“I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, And in His word I do hope.” Psalm 130:5 3. Elijah was renewed as he obeyed God's command to resume his ministry and found Elisha, exactly as promised by the word of God—“For I have satiated the weary soul, and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.” Jeremiah 31:25

Message Take Aways:1. Paul prayed that Philemon would be effective in serving the Lord by continuing to show generosity toward his fellow saints—“But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” Hebrews 13:162. Paul's plea to Philemon was that he would extend forgiveness to Onesimus so that they might be reconciled as brothers in the Lord—“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:143. Paul exhorted Philemon to partner with him in ministry by receiving Onesimus as his fellow believer in Christ—“Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation” 2 Corinthians 5:18

Message Take Aways:1. Elijah and Obadiah demonstrated great boldness as they submitted to the Lord's charge to confront the wicked King Ahab—“The wicked flee when no one pursues, But the righteous are bold as a lion.” Proverbs 28:12. Elijah prayerfully issued a challenge to the prophets of Baal believing that the Lord would faithfully reveal Himself to His people and lead them to repentance—“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” James 4:83. Elijah showed a commitment to pray being convinced that the Lord would fulfill His promised word even when it seemed improbable—Jesus said in Luke 18:27 “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.”

Message Take Aways:1. Paul exhorted the Colossians to “redeem the time” by being steadfast in prayer while walking in godly wisdom in both speech and conduct—“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-172. Paul recognized the need for fellow workers in the ministry understanding that the whole body of Christ is intended to work together to glorify God—“For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.” Romans 12:4-53. Paul sent a warning to encourage Archippus to fulfill the ministry that the Lord had entrusted to him which reminds that we also have been appointed to do good works—“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

Message Take Aways: 1. King Ahab provoked the Lord to anger by embracing Canaanite idolatry and openly opposing the word of God—“I will break the pride of your power; I will make your heavens like iron and your earth like bronze.” Leviticus 26:192. Elijah courageously proclaimed God's coming judgment upon the land of Israel because of their unrepentant sin—“Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD.” Malachi 4:53. The Lord faithfully provided for Elijah as the prophet trusted and obeyed the word of God—“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:334. The gentile widow made a genuine profession of faith after she witnessed the Lord's omnipotence in the midst of her trial—“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” James 1:2-3

Message Take Aways:1. A wife's submission to her husband is ultimately obedience to the Lord and it is made easier when her husband is rightly submitted to Christ—“Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:122. Households established on God's intended structure for the family will be blessed as they yield to His word—“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:73. Regardless of position, the Christian is to regard their employment as service unto the Lord and seek to glorify Him in it—“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:17

Message Take Aways:1. God's people dedicated themselves to restoring the altar recognizing the need to sacrifice for their sins and renew proper worship in their homeland—“For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Hebrews 9:13-142. The people likewise committed themselves to rebuilding the temple with a desire to glorify the Lord and to maintain intimate fellowship with Him—“One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple.” Psalm 27:4

Message Take Aways:1. The believer is to live with a consciousness fixed upon eternity rather than the things of this world—“be renewed in the spirit of your mind” Ephesians 4:232. The believer is to flee carnality by yielding to the Spirit instead of the flesh, in recognition of their new nature in Christ—“our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.” Romans 6:63. The believer is to cultivate a character that reflects the Lord Jesus and glorifies God in all that they do—“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31

Message Take Aways:1. The proclamation of the birth of Christ remains glorious today as the prophesied Savior has come to save sinners like us—“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:212. Recognizing God's faithfulness to fulfill His promised word should lead us to praise Him for His goodness—“O LORD, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.” Isaiah 25:13. Blessing comes to those who wisely pursue the truth of the Gospel—“these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” John 20:31

Take Aways:1. Paul warned the Colossians to reject legalism which wrongly condemns and enslaves believers by emphasizing works rather than trusting in the sufficiency of Christ—“Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.” Romans 3:282. Paul reminded the Colossians of their liberty from the law, that they might live fully unto Christ—“Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” Galatians 5:1

Message Take Aways:1. Although God previously utilized King Baasha to fulfill His prophesied word against the household of Jeroboam, Baasha's depravity provoked the Lord to anger resulting in a promised judgment against his own household—“Woe to the wicked! It shall be ill with him, For the reward of his hands shall be given him.” Isaiah 3:112. While King Zimri's treason against King Elah served to fulfill God's promised judgment against Baasha's household, his selfish wickedness led to the shortest reign and his own destruction—“There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” Proverbs 14:123. Though King Omri established a dominant kingdom in this temporal world, the eternal word of God remembers him as evil in the eyes of the Lord—“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” Mark 8:36

Message Take Aways:1. Paul desired that the Colossians would grow in their personal knowledge of God and remain firmly rooted in the truth—“grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” 2 Peter 3:182. Paul warned the Colossians to guard against being deceived by the trickery of human philosophies and vain traditions of men—“But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Tim. 3:133. Paul reminded the Colossians that the triumph of Jesus Christ at the Cross has delivered the believer from sin and death—“The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:56-57

Message Take Aways:1. King Abijam walked in compromise to the word of God and it resulted in a short reign marked by unrighteousness—“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” Matthew 7:26-272. King Asa ruled with a commitment to honor the Lord with his throne which generated a prosperous and blessed kingdom because of God's faithfulness—“Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness.” Psalm 37:33. The sinful reign of King Nadab led Baasha to conspire against him resulting in his destruction and the fulfillment of God's promised word—“Remember the former things of old, For I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things that are not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, And I will do all My pleasure,'” Isaiah 46:9-10

Message Take Aways:1. Paul reminds of the preeminence of Jesus Christ who is greater than all things being God the Son, Lord of lords, and King of kings—“Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth” Philippians 2:9-102. Paul recalls the selfless and willing sacrifice of Jesus Christ which generates peace between God and man—“For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time” 1 Timothy 2:5-63. Paul recognized his mission as preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all men, a charge likewise entrusted to every believer—“How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” Romans 10:14

Message Take Aways:1. Paul rejoiced over the love and fruit produced in the Colossians by the Spirit, as it demonstrated a sincere faith in the Gospel—“This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.” Titus 3:82. Paul prayed that the Colossians would walk worthy of the Lord by remembering the redemption they had received in Christ—“…walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” 1 Thessalonians 2:12

Message Take Aways:1. The conduct of the believer is to be radically transformed in response to the Gospel by the power of the Holy Spirit—“Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:12. Titus was instructed to avoid needless contentions while firmly addressing those who create division through foolish disputes and false doctrines—“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.” Romans 16:173. Paul reminds Titus to teach believers to walk in good works rooted in benevolent charity—“Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share” 1 Timothy 6:18

Message Take Aways:1. King Jeroboam's attempts to deceive God's prophet exposed the apostate condition of his heart, ultimately bringing divine judgment upon his whole family—“But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you” Deuteronomy 28:152. King Rehoboam's embrace of foreign gods and pagan practices resulted in painful discipline for the entire kingdom of Judah—“If you will not hear, And if you will not take it to heart, To give glory to My name,” Says the LORD of hosts, “I will send a curse upon you, And I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have cursed them already, Because you do not take it to heart.” Malachi 2:2

Message Take Aways:1. Paul gave exhortations for each group in the church reminding us that every believer has a task and purpose in the Lord—“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:582. Paul identified the expectations of the believer reminding us how to live in this present age while expectantly looking for the imminent return of Jesus Christ—“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” Revelation 22:12

Message Take Aways:1. The Lord sent a message of future judgment and swiftly confirmed it reminding us of His goodness to graciously warn sinners and His faithfulness to fulfill His word—“I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn, turn from your evil ways! For why should you die, O house of Israel?” Ezekiel 33:112. The mistake of the man of God to believe a false testimony brought about a terrible consequence reminding us to test everything against the word of God—“Test all things; hold fast what is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:213. The destruction of the man of God reminds of the inevitable misery that comes from disobeying the Lord reminding us to remain steadfast in the path of righteousness—“You shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess.” Deuteronomy 5:33

Message Take Aways:1. In his address to Titus, Paul recognized that his entire ministry was founded upon the preaching of the Gospel and the teaching of sound doctrine, reminding us of the importance of faithfully relying upon the Word of God as His ambassadors—“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” Mark 16:152. Paul set forth clear attributes to identify those qualified to be elders in the church at Crete, and we would do well to observe and uphold these same standards within the church today—“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.” 1 Corinthians 14:333. While Titus received a specific assignment to rebuke and correct within Crete, every believer likewise bears the responsibility to stand boldly for the word of God and truth of the Gospel wherever they are called—“always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” 1 Peter 3:15

Calvary Chapel McKinney Youth Leader Jacob Couch teaches a special message in 2 Peter 1:1-11.

Message Take Aways:1. Paul encouraged the Philippians to know peace by walking in unity, joy, and gentleness while remaining rooted in prayer and meditating on that which glorifies God and edifies the body—“Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” 2 Corinthians 13:112. Paul celebrated the Philippians' generous provision recognizing that their willingness to support the ministry demonstrated both their love for him and a mature trust in the Lord as they invested their resources in His kingdom work—“But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” Hebrews 13:16

Message Take Aways:1. The wisdom of King Solomon was experienced by the Queen of Sheba only after she set out to seek him personally, ultimately realizing that his glory was even greater than expected—“Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found Him of whom Moses in the law, and also the prophets, wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.' And Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?' Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.'” John 1:45-462. Though the Lord blessed Solomon with great wealth, it eventually became a stumbling block as Solomon trusted in riches rather than relying upon the Lord—“Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” Matthew 19:23-24

Message Take Aways:1. Paul charged the Philippians to walk in lowliness while pointing to the example of Jesus Christ who despite being God the Son, willingly humbled Himself to the point of death to serve and save sinful man—“the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:282. The Philippians were to be light bearers in a dark world by conducting themselves as children of God through aligning their behavior with the Gospel—“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” Ephesians 5:83. Paul commended Timothy & Epaphroditus as being leaders who were worthy of honor and esteem as proven by the manner in which they served the Lord Jesus—“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” 1 Timothy 5:17

Message Take Aways:1. The Lord's second appearance to King Solomon reminds us of His willingness to bless His people if they commit to walking in His ways with integrity—Psalm 112:1 “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who delights greatly in His commandments.”2. The acquisition that King Solomon orchestrated with King Hiram should challenge us to redeem whatever gifts or talents we possess for the furtherance of God's kingdom—“So the master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light.” Luke 16:83. The achievements of Solomon during his reign were accomplished through wise delegation and strategic organization reminding us to be good stewards in whatever the Lord entrusts to us—“Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things” Matthew 25:21

Message Take Aways:1. Paul gave thanks for his fellowship with the Philippians while also praying for them to increase in love, knowledge, discernment, and good works reminding us to appreciate our fellow brethren while striving to grow together in the Lord—“walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” Colossians 1:102. Paul recognized that the preaching of the Gospel had advanced despite his imprisonment as fellow believers became bolder by his example demonstrating that the Lord is able to redeem even the hardest of seasons for His glory—“I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained” 2 Timothy 2:93. Paul encouraged the Philippians to persevere the threats of persecution and trials of this world by remembering the promise of their salvation in Jesus Christ—“If we endure, we shall also reign with Him.” 2 Timothy 2:12

Message Take Aways:1. Paul admonished children, parents, servants, and masters to honor the Lord in their various stations reminding us that whatever seasons we are in we are to view them as a stewardship and opportunity to glorify God—“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Colossians 3:172. Paul's exhortation to take up the armor of God serves to remind that we are in a spiritual battle in which we must rely on the Lord and His resources to be victorious—“And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.” Romans 16:203. Paul desired that his fellow believers would be informed of his ministry affairs and be comforted by all that the Lord was doing both in and through him despite his chains—“Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern.” Philippians 3:17

Message Take Aways:1. Wives are called to submit to their husbands understanding that yielding to his God ordained headship is part of their Christian obedience—“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-242. Husbands are to recognize their high calling to imitate Christ in their marriage by selflessly serving and loving their bride as their own body—“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:453. Husbands and wives are to be united in solidarity as they mutually commit to God's design for marriage and redeem it to glorify Him—“Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6

Message Take Aways:1. King Solomon experienced great success in the construction of his palace courts as the Lord blessed and enabled his efforts—“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:332. Huram's diligent craftsmanship reminds us of the need to hone our gifts, talents, and skillsets to utilize them in serving the Kingdom of God for His glory—“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-243. King Solomon completed the work that was entrusted to him by relying on the wisdom, support, and resources that were divinely provided by the Lord—“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

Message Take Aways:1. The prophesied return of Jesus Christ should comfort our hearts in times of chaos as we remember that evil will not be victorious over the promised plans of God—“The grass withers, the flower fades, But the word of our God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8 2. Isaiah's rebuke toward the kingdom of Judah to walk in the light of the LORD rather than embracing the wicked conduct of this world reminds us that we as believers are to live differently as children of light—"The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.” Romans 13:123. While a reckoning is promised to come upon this wicked, fallen world, the Lord in His kindness warns mankind through His word that we might repent and know life more abundantly—“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord” Acts 3:19

Message Take Aways:1. Paul charged the Ephesians to be imitators of God by walking in love, and the example has been given in Jesus Christ who selflessly sacrificed Himself for us—“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John 15:122. If we profess to be new creations in Jesus Christ, then it should be made manifest as we walk as children of light—“If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.” 1 John 1:6-73. As believers we are to maintain a lifestyle rooted in godly wisdom and gratitude towards the Lord while seeking to selflessly serve others—“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

Message Take Aways:1. Being united in the Gospel of Jesus Christ should produce a cohesion among His body that inspires each member to nurture and support one another in love—“Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.” Romans 14:192. The various spiritual gifts stewarded to every one of us are to be utilized in collaboration with one another to edify, grow, and mature the body of Christ—“As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:103. Being made a new creation in Christ will be manifested by a conduct that aligns with righteousness and holiness, which we should zealously desire to walk in—“(Christ) gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:14

Message Take Aways:1. As Solomon methodically designed the temple to glorify God, so we as the Church are to strive to honor the Lord as His temple—“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.” 1 Corinthians 6:16, 17b2. God promised Solomon and His people Israel great blessing if they dedicated themselves to walking in His ways and we likewise will be blessed as we continue in His word—“Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.” 1 Timothy 4:163. The precise details of the temple's construction and components were intended to convey the glory of God to generate reverence in those who approached His presence reminding us of the blessing it is to now enter in with boldness because of the work of Jesus Christ—“Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.” Hebrews 10:19-22

Message Take Aways:1. The plan which had been revealed by God was that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs of God's promises through the gospel of Jesus Christ—“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Romans 1:162. Paul recognized the purpose of his ministry was to declare the gospel to all men that they may come to know the unfathomable riches of Jesus Christ and we have been commissioned to do likewise—“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” Mark 16:153. Paul prayed that the Ephesians would personally know the love of Christ while growing deeper in the fullness of God and we should desire to do the same—“as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” 1 Peter 2:2

Message Take Aways:1. The Ephesians experienced a closeness with the Lord because God the Father willingly made the way for salvation by the blood of Jesus—“He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-142. Both Jewish and Gentile believers now share a commonality in their mutual trust in the cross of Jesus Christ which removed the enmity between them while bringing peace between God and man—“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” 1 Tim. 2:5-63. The Church is masterfully crafted by God the Father built upon the Cornerstone, Christ the Son, and exists to grow into a holy temple that glorifies God by the power of the Holy Spirit—“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Message Take Aways:1. King Solomon wisely recognized the need to raise up other people to whom he could delegate purposeful work to support the furtherance of the kingdom—“the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” Ephesians 4:162. Israel & Judah experienced prosperity under King Solomon as God fulfilled His promised word and provided for His people beyond their wildest expectations—“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” 1 Corinthians 2:93. As Solomon relied upon the Lord he experienced prominence that set him apart from all other men reminding us of the blessing that comes from simply seeking God and abiding in Him—“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

Message Take Aways:1. Paul prayed for the Ephesians that they would personally know the wisdom and riches made available by God in Christ; we should likewise pray for others while knowing these promised blessings for ourselves—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:52. Paul reminds of the new, glorious position we have come to know in Christ which should charge us to live accordingly as citizens of heaven—“For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come.” Hebrew 13:143. While Scripture declares that we are saved by grace through faith as opposed to our works, Paul reminds the believer that we were created with the purpose of walking in good works to glorify God—“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Message Take Aways:1. As Paul celebrated the glory of God's plan to grant adoption to lowly man, he also recognized the responsibility to live unto holiness while striving to walk blamelessly before Him out of a genuine love for the Lord—“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” 1 Peter 2:9-102. Once we realize the grace that God has bestowed upon us through the offering of His Son Jesus Christ to redeem us from eternal death, we understand our reasonable response must be to worship Him “to the praise of His glory”—“I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving.” Psalm 69:303. Since the Lord has given us the Holy Spirit as a guarantee or pledge of our coming inheritance, we can live with a hope and expectation that God will fulfill His promised word to redeem us unto eternal life—“being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” Philippians 1:6

Message Take Aways:1. Though the Lord rebuked the conduct of the people, His command for them to return to building His temple demonstrated His longsuffering nature and patient willingness to use them once again despite their prior failures—“But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.” Psalm 86:15 2. As the people renewed their commitment to the Lord by resuming the work of building His temple, so we will be blessed to daily commit to the good work that the Lord has prepared for us to do—“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:103. When the people became discouraged in the building process, the Lord comforted them by promising that the work would be completed unto glory and the Lord promises the same confidence to all who trust in Him—“being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” Philippians 1:6

Message Take Aways:1. David provided his son Solomon with wise instruction that his throne and legacy might be established in righteousness, and our heavenly Father has graciously provided us with divine instruction through His word and we will be blessed by obeying it—“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-172. The stubborn pride of Adonijah generated an insolence toward God's anointed king Solomon and it eventually resulted in his destruction reminding us of the need to humble ourselves and submit to the plans of the Lord rather than scheming or fighting against His will—“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:183. As Solomon took initiative to remove any wickedness that opposed or threatened the establishment of his kingdom, we too are wise to wage war against the sinful practices of our flesh—“Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” Colossians 3:5

Take Aways:1. David relied on the Lord as his Provider in all things knowing that the Good Shepherd faithfully provides for His sheep, and we are instructed by Jesus to do the same—Luke 12:29-31 “And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.”2. As David trusted in the Lord as his Protector in the midst of peril and opposition, so we can take confidence in knowing the Good Shepherd will preserve us unto eternity—“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” John 10:27-28