Driftwood Sermons

Seeing God in the Mangroves by Driftwood Church at the Beach

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT Revelation 6:17 ESV for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?" THE SEALED AND THE SAVED HOW IS THIS AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO US AS THE CHURCH TODAY? KNOWING THAT WHEN WE GOT SAVED…WE GOT SEALED BY A GRACIOUS GOD…SO WE CAN ALWAYS STAND! Ephesians 1:13-14 ESV In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 ESV And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, [22] and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. SO, IN THE GREAT TRIBULATION, WHO WILL BE ABLE TO STAND? THE SEALED AND THE SAVED THE SEALED Revelation 7:1-8 ESV After this I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding back the four winds of the earth, that no wind might blow on earth or sea or against any tree. [2] Then I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, with the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to the four angels who had been given power to harm earth and sea, [3] saying, "Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads." [4] And I heard the number of the sealed, 144,000, sealed from every tribe of the sons of Israel: [5] 12,000 from the tribe of Judah were sealed, 12,000 from the tribe of Reuben, 12,000 from the tribe of Gad, [6] 12,000 from the tribe of Asher, 12,000 from the tribe of Naphtali, 12,000 from the tribe of Manasseh, [7] 12,000 from the tribe of Simeon, 12,000 from the tribe of Levi, 12,000 from the tribe of Issachar, [8] 12,000 from the tribe of Zebulun, 12,000 from the tribe of Joseph, 12,000 from the tribe of Benjamin were sealed. THE SAVED Revelation 7:9-17 ESV After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, [10] and crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" [11] And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, [12] saying, "Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen." [13] Then one of the elders addressed me, saying, "Who are these, clothed in white robes, and from where have they come?" [14] I said to him, "Sir, you know." And he said to me, "These are the ones coming out of the great tribulation. They have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. [15] "Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. [16] They shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any scorching heat. [17] For the Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and he will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes." HOW IS THIS AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO US AS THE CHURCH TODAY? TO KNOW THAT OUR GOD IS SO GRACIOUS THAT EVEN DURING THE GREAT TRIBULATION…HE WILL STILL BE BRINGING PEOPLE INTO INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS WITH HIM TO KNOW THAT BECAUSE HE HAS ALREADY SAVED AND SEALED US…WE CAN STAND! WE CAN STAND!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT EITHER THIS HAS ALREADY HAPPENED…OR THIS IS HOW IT ALL ENDS…I HAVE NO DOUBT THAT THIS IS HOW IT ALL ENDS! THE WORLD IS DUPED BY A CHARISMATIC WORLD LEADER WHO BRINGS THEM A SHORT-LIVED, FALSE, WORLD PEACE Revelation 6:1-2 ESV Now I watched when the Lamb opened one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures say with a voice like thunder, "Come!" [2] And I looked, and behold, a white horse! And its rider had a bow, and a crown was given to him, and he came out conquering, and to conquer. PEACE WITHOUT THE PRINCE OF PEACE TURNS INTO WORLD WAR Revelation 6:3-4 ESV When he opened the second seal, I heard the second living creature say, "Come!" [4] And out came another horse, bright red. Its rider was permitted to take peace from the earth, so that people should slay one another, and he was given a great sword. WAR ALWAYS LEADS TO FAMINE Revelation 6:5-6 ESV When he opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, "Come!" And I looked, and behold, a black horse! And its rider had a pair of scales in his hand. [6] And I heard what seemed to be a voice in the midst of the four living creatures, saying, "A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and wine!" WAR AND FAMINE ALWAYS LEAD TO DEATH Revelation 6:7-8 ESV When he opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature say, "Come!" [8] And I looked, and behold, a pale horse! And its rider's name was Death, and Hades followed him. And they were given authority over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by wild beasts of the earth. MANY WILL BE SAVED…BUT ALL WILL BE KILLED Revelation 6:9-11 ESV When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne. [10] They cried out with a loud voice, "O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth?" [11] Then they were each given a white robe and told to rest a little longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brothers should be complete, who were to be killed as they themselves had been. GOD WILL GET EVERYONE ELSE'S ATTENTION…UNFORTUNATELY EVERYONE ELSE WILL TRY TO ESCAPE..UNFORTUNATELY, NO ONE ELSE HAS A DESIRE TO REPENT AND ARE ETERNALLY DOOMED Revelation 6:12-17 ESV When he opened the sixth seal, I looked, and behold, there was a great earthquake, and the sun became black as sackcloth, the full moon became like blood, [13] and the stars of the sky fell to the earth as the fig tree sheds its winter fruit when shaken by a gale. [14] The sky vanished like a scroll that is being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place. [15] Then the kings of the earth and the great ones and the generals and the rich and the powerful, and everyone, slave and free, hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains, [16] calling to the mountains and rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb, [17] for the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?" THE WORLD IS DUPED BY A CHARISMATIC WORLD LEADER WHO BRINGS THEM A SHORT-LIVED, FALSE, WORLD PEACE PEACE WITHOUT THE PRINCE OF PEACE TURNS INTO WORLD WAR WAR AND FAMINE ALWAYS LEAD TO DEATH MANY WILL BE SAVED…BUT ALL WILL BE KILLED GOD WILL GET EVERYONE ELSE'S ATTENTION…UNFORTUNATELY EVERYONE ELSE WILL TRY TO ESCAPE..UNFORTUNATELY, NO ONE ELSE HAS A DESIRE TO REPENT AND ARE ETERNALLY DOOMED SO…HOW IS THIS AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE CHURCH? BECAUSE OF GOD'S GRACE…WE WON'T BE THERE!

Spiritual Leadership is Not About Personal Grit, but God's Grace // Pastor JJ Lain by Driftwood Church at the Beach

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT WILL SATAN AND HIS WORLD SYSTEM THAT FEEDS OUR FLESH EVER BE DEFEATED? Revelation 5:1-4 ESV Then I saw in the right hand of him who was seated on the throne a scroll written within and on the back, sealed with seven seals. [2] And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, "Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?" [3] And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to look into it, [4] and I began to weep loudly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it. THE LION DEFEATED THE DRAGON, HIS WORLD SYSTEM, AND OUR FLESH…AND HE DID IT AS A LAMB Revelation 5:5-10 ESV And one of the elders said to me, "Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals." [6] And between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders I saw a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain, with seven horns and with seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God sent out into all the earth. [7] And he went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who was seated on the throne. [8] And when he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each holding a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. [9] And they sang a new song, saying, "Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation, [10] and you have made them a kingdom and priests to our God, and they shall reign on the earth." FOR THAT…THE LAMB WILL BE WORSHIPED FOREVER! Revelation 5:11-14 ESV Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, [12] saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!" [13] And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying, "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!" [14] And the four living creatures said, "Amen!" and the elders fell down and worshiped. THE LION DEFEATED THE DRAGON, HIS WORLD SYSTEM, AND OUR FLESH…AND HE DID IT AS A LAMB FOR THAT…THE LAMB WILL BE WORSHIPED FOREVER!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT GOD IS ON HIS THRONE…AND THE CHURCH IS IN HEAVEN! Revelation 1:19 ESV Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. Revelation 4:1-11 ESV After this I looked, and behold, a door standing open in heaven! And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this." [2] At once I was in the Spirit, and behold, a throne stood in heaven, with one seated on the throne. [3] And he who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian, and around the throne was a rainbow that had the appearance of an emerald. [4] Around the throne were twenty-four thrones, and seated on the thrones were twenty-four elders, clothed in white garments, with golden crowns on their heads. [5] From the throne came flashes of lightning, and rumblings and peals of thunder, and before the throne were burning seven torches of fire, which are the seven spirits of God, [6] and before the throne there was as it were a sea of glass, like crystal. And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: [7] the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. [8] And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!" [9] And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, [10] the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, [11] "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created." GOD IS ON HIS THRONE…AND THE CHURCH IS IN HEAVEN! THOSE WHO ARE IN HIS KINGDOM NEVER HAVE TO FEAR

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT CHRIST DOES NOT WANT TO BE REPRESENTED BY A LOST CHURCH Revelation 3:15-17 ESV "'I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! [16] So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. [17] For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. Matthew 7:21-23 ESV "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' [23] And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Luke 8:4-15 ESV And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable, [5] "A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured it. [6] And some fell on the rock, and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. [7] And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. [8] And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold." As he said these things, he called out, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." [9] And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, [10] he said, "To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God, but for others they are in parables, so that 'seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.' [11] Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. [12] The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. [13] And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. [14] And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. [15] As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience. SINCE CHRIST DOES NOT WANT TO BE REPRESENTED BY A LOST CHURCH…HE OFFERS THE LOST CHURCH TRUE SALVATION Revelation 3:18-22 ESV I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. [19] Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. [20] Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. [21] The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. [22] He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.'" CHRIST DOES NOT WANT TO BE REPRESENTED BY A LOST CHURCH… SO HE OFFERS THE INDIVIDUALS IN THE LOST CHURCH TRUE SALVATION!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT CHRIST REVEALS AND FULFILLS ALL OF GOD'S PROMISES TO US… CHRIST CREATES AND HOLDS EVERYTHING TOGETHER… AND TO THAT…WE SAY…AMEN! Revelation 3:14 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: 'The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation. CHRIST REVEALS AND FULFILLS ALL OF GOD'S PROMISES TO US Revelation 3:14 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: 'The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness,… 2 Corinthians 1:20-22 ESV For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory. [21] And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, [22] and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. CHRIST CREATES AND HOLDS EVERYTHING TOGETHER Revelation 3:14 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: 'The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation. Colossians 1:15-17 ESV He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. [16] For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-all things were created through him and for him. [17] And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. CHRIST REVEALS AND FULFILLS ALL OF GOD'S PROMISES TO US… CHRIST CREATES AND HOLDS EVERYTHING TOGETHER… AND TO THAT…WE SAY…AMEN!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS… WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT I AM COMING SOON…DON'T MISS YOUR STEPHANOS…YOU WILL BE STANDING IN GOD'S TEMPLE WHEN EVERYTHING AROUND YOU HAS CRUMBLED…AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION IS SECURE. I AM COMING SOON…DON'T MISS YOUR STEPHANOS Revelation 3:11 ESV I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. YOU WILL BE STANDING IN GOD'S TEMPLE WHEN EVERYTHING AROUND YOU HAS CRUMBLED… Revelation 3:12a ESV The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God… AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION IS SECURE. Revelation 3:12b ESV …Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name. I AM COMING SOON…DON'T MISS YOUR STEPHANOS…YOU WILL BE STANDING IN GOD'S TEMPLE WHEN EVERYTHING AROUND YOU HAS CRUMBLED…AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION IS SECURE.

Stop Chasing Chains! Compared to God's standard, I am always going to fall short. Romans 3:9-20 NLT 9 Well then, should we conclude that we Jews are better than others? No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin. 10 As the Scriptures say,
“No one is righteous —
not even one. 11 No one is truly wise;
no one is seeking God. 12 All have turned away;
all have become useless.
No one does good,
not a single one.” 13 Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave.
Their tongues are filled with lies.”
Snake venom drips from their lips.” 14 “Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness.” 15 “They rush to commit murder. 16 Destruction and misery always follow them. 17 They don't know where to find peace.” 18 “They have no fear of God at all.” 19 Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. 20 For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. Christ fulfilled the standard, and I get his score. Romans 3:21-24 NLT 21 But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. 22 We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. 23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. 24 Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. I can't lose because I've already lost. Jesus has already won, and he welcomes me on his “best throw” doubles team. Romans 3:25-31 NLT 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 For he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. 27 Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. 28 So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law. 29 After all, is God the God of the Jews only? Isn't he also the God of the Gentiles? Of course he is. 30 There is only one God, and he makes people right with himself only by faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. 31 Well then, if we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law. I play my round in faith, but I get the same score as Jesus. Instead of chasing the chains, let's chase the words, “Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant.”

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! IT WAS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TO BE AN ENCOURAGEMENT CHRIST…THE FLAWLESS, AUTHENTIC, NEVER LETTING US DOWN, SOVEREIGN AUTHORITY… IS CONSTANTLY SETTING US UP TO SUCCEED WHILE WE ARE HERE Revelation 3:7-9 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: 'The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens. [8] "'I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. [9] Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie-behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. AND IN THE FUTURE…CHRIST WILL SPARE US FROM THE TROUBLE OF THE GREAT TRIBULATION Revelation 3:10 ESV Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth. John 14:1-4 ESV "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. [2] In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. [4] And you know the way to where I am going." 1 Corinthians 15:50-53 ESV I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. [51] Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, [52] in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. [53] For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. [14] For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. [15] For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words. CHRIST…THE FLAWLESS, AUTHENTIC, NEVER LETTING US DOWN, SOVEREIGN AUTHORITY…. IS CONSTANTLY SETTING US UP TO SUCCEED WHILE WE ARE HERE AND IN THE FUTURE…CHRIST WILL SPARE US FROM THE TROUBLE OF THE GREAT TRIBULATION THEREFORE, ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER WITH THESE WORDS!

HIS WONDERFUL PLANS, HIS MIGHTY POWER, AND HIS ETERNAL PRESENCE…GIVES US PEACE Isaiah 9:1-5 ESV But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. [2] The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. [3] You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. [4] For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. [5] For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. Isaiah 9:6 ESV For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:7 ESV Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this. HIS WONDERFUL PLANS, HIS MIGHTY POWER, AND HIS ETERNAL PRESENCE…GIVES US PEACE

Throughout the week we are helping each other see life from God's perspective. What are you praising God for today? How can we pray for you? Send an email to pray@driftwoodchurch.com. For more information about Driftwood Church, please visit www.driftwoodchurch.com Sermon Notes: THERE IS A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY AND AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH A HOLY GOD THE SPIRITUALLY DEAD HAVE RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY Revelation 3:1 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: 'The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. "'I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. THE SPIRITUALLY ALIVE HAVE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH A HOLY GOD Revelation 3:2-3 ESV Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. [3] Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you. THOSE WHO ARE SPIRITUALLY ALIVE HAVE A DESIRE TO BE HOLY NOW, AND WILL BE GIVEN PERFECT HOLINESS LATER Revelation 3:4-6 ESV Yet you have still a few names in Sardis, people who have not soiled their garments, and they will walk with me in white, for they are worthy. [5] The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels. [6] He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' THERE IS A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY AND AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH A HOLY GOD

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! SARDIS…THE CITY THAT FELL ASLEEP BY BEING WIDE AWAKE THE SPIRIT BRINGS LIFE… PASTORS ANSWER TO GOD…AND ACTIVITY WILL NEVER REPLACE AN INTIMACY WITH GOD Revelation 3:1 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Sardis write: 'The words of him who has the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. "'I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. WAKE UP…REMEMBER…AND REPENT Revelation 3:2-3 ESV Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. [3] Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you. BE CAREFUL OF ONE-DIMENSIONAL CHRISTIANITY…KNOW AND APPLY THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD…IN CONTEXT SO YOU DON'T FALL ASLEEP BY BEING WIDE AWAKE.

IF I COULD LOSE MY SALVATION…I WOULD…BUT BECAUSE IT IS FROM GOD… I CAN'T Romans 8:28-30 ESV And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. [29] For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. [30] And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. IF I COULD LOSE MY SALVATION…I WOULD…BUT BECAUSE IT IS FROM GOD…I CAN'T!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! CHRIST DOES THE TESTING…THE DEVIL DOES THE TEMPTING…AND WE DO THE TRUSTING CHRIST TESTS US SO WE CAN GROW AND BECOME MORE LIKE HIM Revelation 2:19 ESV "'I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. THE DEVIL TEMPTS US SO THAT WE WILL DOUBT CHRIST, BELIEVE WE ARE DEFEATED IN OUR WALK WITH HIM, AND HAVE FEELINGS OF DISCOURAGEMENT…IF HE SUCCEEDS, CHRIST WILL DISCIPLINE US…TEACHING US ONCE AGAIN TO TRUST HIM Revelation 2:20-23 ESV But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. [21] I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. [22] Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation, unless they repent of her works, [23] and I will strike her children dead. And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works. WE TRUST CHRIST SO THAT WE CAN GROW AND BECOME MORE LIKE HIM…AND SHOW HIM THAT WE LOVE HIM Revelation 2:24-29 ESV But to the rest of you in Thyatira, who do not hold this teaching, who have not learned what some call the deep things of Satan, to you I say, I do not lay on you any other burden. [25] Only hold fast what you have until I come. [26] The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, [27] and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. [28] And I will give him the morning star. [29] He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.' Romans 8:28-30 ESV And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. [29] For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. [30] And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. CHRIST DOES THE TESTING…THE DEVIL DOES THE TEMPTING…AND WE DO THE TRUSTING

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! CHRIST DOES THE TESTING…THE DEVIL DOES THE TEMPTING…AND WE DO THE TRUSTING CHRIST TESTS US SO WE CAN GROW AND BECOME MORE LIKE HIM Revelation 2:19 ESV "'I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. James 1:2-21 ESV Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, [3] for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. [4] And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. [6] But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. [7] For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; [8] he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. [9] Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, [10] and the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. [11] For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits. [12] Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. [13] Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. [14] But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. [15] Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. [16] Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. [17] Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. [18] Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. [19] Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; [20] for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. [21] Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! CHRIST DOES THE TESTING…THE DEVIL DOES THE TEMPTING…AND WE DO THE TRUSTING CHRIST TESTS US SO WE CAN GROW AND BECOME MORE LIKE HIM Revelation 2:19 ESV "'I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first. James 1:2-21 ESV Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, [3] for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. [4] And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! CHRIST DOES THE TESTING…THE DEVIL DOES THE TEMPTING…AND WE DO THE TRUSTING CHRIST TESTS US SO WE CAN GROW AND BECOME MORE LIKE HIM Revelation 2:19 ESV "'I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first.

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! I AM GOD…UNDERSTAND ETERNITY…AND BUILD YOUR LIFE ON ME! Revelation 2:18 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: 'The words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze.

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! I AM GOD…UNDERSTAND ETERNITY…AND BUILD YOUR LIFE ON ME! Revelation 2:18 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: 'The words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I AM GOD Revelation 2:18a ESV "And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: 'The words of the Son of God… Psalm 2:1-12 ESV Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? [2] The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against his Anointed, saying, [3] "Let us burst their bonds apart and cast away their cords from us." [4] He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision. [5] Then he will speak to them in his wrath, and terrify them in his fury, saying, [6] "As for me, I have set my King on Zion, my holy hill." [7] I will tell of the decree: The LORD said to me, "You are my Son; today I have begotten you. [8] Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession. [9] You shall break them with a rod of iron and dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel." [10] Now therefore, O kings, be wise; be warned, O rulers of the earth. [11] Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. [12] Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish in the way, for his wrath is quickly kindled. Blessed are all who take refuge in him. UNDERSTAND ETERNITY Revelation 2:18b ESV …who has eyes like a flame of fire… - 1 John 2:15-17 ESV - Daniel 2:31-45 ESV BUILD YOUR LIFE ON ME Revelation 2:18c ESV …and whose feet are like burnished bronze. - Matthew 7:21-27 ESV Revelation 2:18 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Thyatira write: 'The words of the Son of God, who has eyes like a flame of fire, and whose feet are like burnished bronze. I AM GOD…UNDERSTAND ETERNITY…AND BUILD YOUR LIFE ON ME!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! ANYTIME WE COMPROMISE…WE GET A LESS THAN STELLAR RESULT GOD'S WORD IS GOD'S WORD AND GOD'S WORD IS CHRIST'S WORD Revelation 2:12 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. Hebrews 4:12-13 ESV For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. [13] And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. John 1:1-5 ESV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. [4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. MAKE SURE YOUR FAITH IS NOT IN FAITH BUT IN THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST Revelation 2:13 ESV "'I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. A DIFFICULT ENVIRONMENT NEVER JUSTIFIES A SINFUL COMPROMISE Revelation 2:14-15 ESV But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. [15] So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. REPENTANCE IS ALWAYS THE REMEDY Revelation 2:16 ESV Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. FEED ON CHRIST AND BE FULL Revelation 2:17 ESV He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.' ANYTIME WE COMPROMISE…WE GET A LESS THAN STELLAR RESULT…FEED ON CHRIST AND BE FULL!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! ANYTIME WE COMPROMISE…WE GET A LESS THAN STELLAR RESULT GOD'S WORD IS GOD'S WORD AND GOD'S WORD IS CHRIST'S WORD Revelation 2:12 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: 'The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. Hebrews 4:12-13 ESV For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. [13] And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. John 1:1-5 ESV In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. [4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. MAKE SURE YOUR FAITH IS NOT IN FAITH BUT IN THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST Revelation 2:13 ESV "'I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells.

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! A CHRISTIAN MUST BE CRUSHED FOR THE WORLD TO EXPERIENCE A CUP OF CHRIST THE EVER-LIVING…ALL LOVING RISEN SAVIOR…JESUS CHRIST! Revelation 2:8 ESV "And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: 'The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life. ETERNAL RICHES ARE WAY MORE VALUABLE THAN EARTHLY RICHES Revelation 2:9a ESV “‘I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich)… FAITHFUL SUFFERING TURNS INTO FAITHFUL STRENGTH Revelation 2:9b-10 ESV …and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life. THIS IS NOT YOUR HOME…YOUR HOME IS IN HEAVEN…WITH GOD…FOREVER! Revelation 2:11 ESV He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who conquers will not be hurt by the second death.' A CHRISTIAN MUST BE CRUSHED FOR THE WORLD TO EXPERIENCE A CUP OF CHRIST

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! BUT SOMETIMES…ACTUALLY ALL OF THE TIME…WE NEED A LITTLE ENCOURAGEMENT ALONG THE WAY… THE KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS WANTS TO HAVE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU! THE ALL POWERFUL AND EVER-PRESENT CHRIST Revelation 2:1 ESV "To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: 'The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. ACTIVITY DOESN'T EQUAL ANOINTING Revelation 2:2-3,6 ESV "'I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. [3] I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name's sake, and you have not grown weary. [6] Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. IF YOU ABANDON LOVE, YOU ABANDON IT ALL Revelation 2:4-5 ESV But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. [5] Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent. REDISCOVER THE INTIMACY WITH CHRIST THAT CHRIST DESIRES TO HAVE WITH YOU! Revelation 2:7 ESV He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.' THE KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS WANTS TO HAVE AN INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH YOU!

YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! Revelation 1:12-20 ESV Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, [15] his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, "Fear not, I am the first and the last, [18] and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. [19] Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. [20] As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! DO YOU KNOW CHRIST?

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! Revelation 1:9-11 ESV I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. [10] I was in .the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet [11] saying, "Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! Revelation 1:12-20 ESV Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, [15] his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, "Fear not, I am the first and the last, [18] and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. [19] Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. [20] As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! DO YOU KNOW CHRIST?

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! Revelation 1:9-11 ESV I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. [10] I was in .the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet [11] saying, "Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! MY FAVORITE BOOK IS THIS REALLY OLD ONE WHERE THE AUTHOR FALLS SO DEEPLY IN LOVE WITH THE READER THAT HE DIES FOR THEM…SO THAT HE CAN LIVE WITH THEM FOREVER CHRIST IS COMING BACK TO TAKE US HOME! Revelation 1:7-8 ESV Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen. [8] "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty." - Philippians 3:20-21 ESV - Matthew 24:30-31 ESV - Daniel 7:13-14 ESV - Zechariah 14:1-9 ESV - Jeremiah 23:5-8 ESV - Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV - Colossians 3:1-4 ESV - Titus 2:11-14 ESV SO, WHILE WE THE CHURCH, ARE WAITING FOR CHRIST TO COME BACK, TO TAKE US HOME, WE ARE TO THINK ABOUT HIS RETURN OFTEN…AS WE HAVE COMMUNION WITH HIM 1 Corinthians 11:23-29,31-32 ESV For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, [24] and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." [25] In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." [26] For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. [27] Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. [28] Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. [29] For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. [31] But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. [32] But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. CHRIST IS COMING BACK TO TAKE US HOME…ARE YOU READY FOR HIS RETURN?

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! Revelation 1:1-6 ESV The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, [2] who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. [3] Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. [4] John to the seven churches that are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, [5] and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood [6] and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN!

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! Revelation 1:1-3 ESV The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, [2] who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. [3] Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near. REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN!

GOD'S WORD IS EITHER A COMFORT OR A CURSE. WAS GOD'S WORD A COMFORT OR CURSE TO ISRAEL? Deuteronomy 11:26-28 “Look, today I am giving you the choice between a blessing and a curse! You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the Lord your God that I am giving you today. But you will be cursed if you reject the commands of the Lord your God and turn away from him and worship gods you have not known before.” WAS GOD'S WORD A COMFORT OR CURSE TO SOLOMON? 1 Kings 11:9-13 “The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord's command. So now the Lord said to him, “Since you have not kept my covenant and have disobeyed my decrees, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your servants. But for the sake of your father, David, I will not do this while you are still alive. I will take the kingdom away from your son. And even so, I will not take away the entire kingdom; I will let him be king of one tribe, for the sake of my servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem, my chosen city.” WAS GOD'S WORD A COMFORT OR A CURSE FOR THE FUTURE? Read Isaiah 25 “God in His Word has told us what's going to happen, before it happens, so when it begins to happen, non-believers will believe and believers will look up knowing our redemption draws near!” — JD Farag GOD'S WORD DOES NOT NEED TO BE A CURSE FOR YOU Galatians 3:13 “But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.” 1 John 5:11-12 “And this is what God has testified: He has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God's Son does not have life.”

For more information about Driftwood Church and online giving, please visit www.driftwoodchurch.com Sermon Notes: GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD DIVINE ACCOMPLISHMENT VS. HUMAN ACHIEVEMENT DO VS. DONE SELF RIGHTEOUSNESS: LAW…WORKS…FLESH Galatians 6:11-13 ESV See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. [12] It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. [13] For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. CHRIST RIGHTEOUSNESS: GRACE…FAITH…SPIRIT Galatians 6:14-18 ESV But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. [15] For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. [16] And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God. [17] From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus. [18] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen. GRACE GIVES US FAITH…FAITH GIVES US FREEDOM…AND IN THAT FREEDOM…GOD IS GLORIFIED.

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD OUR LIFE ON EARTH IS ONE CONTINUOUS OPPORTUNITY TO FELLOWSHIP FELLOWSHIP…GOD USING SOMEONE TO TEACH YOU HIS WORD…AND YOU LETTING THEM KNOW… Galatians 6:6 ESV Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. OPPORTUNITY…EVERY ENCOUNTER IS A DIVINE ENCOUNTER… Galatians 6:10 ESV So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. OUR LIFE ON EARTH IS ONE CONTINUOUS OPPORTUNITY TO FELLOWSHIP

LIFE IS FULL OF DECISIONS D/R/W WITH EVERY DECISION THERE IS A RIGHT DECISION AND A WRONG DECISION Galatians 6:7a ESV [7a] Do not be deceived: God is not mocked... STC/LTC WITH EVERY RIGHT AND WRONG DECISION THERE ARE SHORT TERM CONSEQUENCES AND LONG TERM CONSEQUENCES [7] Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. Galatians 6:7 ESV G/B WHEN WE MAKE THE WRONG DECISION THE SHORT TERM CONSEQUENCES ARE USUALLY GOOD BUT THE LONG TERM CONSEQUENCES ARE ALWAYS BAD Galatians 6:8 ESV [8a] For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption… B/G WHEN WE MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION THE SHORT TERM CONSEQUENCES ARE USUALLY BAD BUT THE LONG TERM CONSEQUENCES ARE ALWAYS GOOD Galatians 6:8 ESV [8] For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Circle or highlight B/B THE TOUGHEST TIME IN LIFE IS WHEN WE DECIDE TO MAKE RIGHT DECISIONS AFTER MAKING A BUNCH OF WRONG DECISIONS...BUT HANG IN THERE. Galatians 6:9 ESV [9] And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Circle or highlight R/W SO MAKE DECISIONS BASED ON RIGHT AND WRONG AS OPPOSED TO POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES.

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD GOD GIVES PEOPLE GIANT DUFFLE BAGS, FULL OF PROBLEMS THAT THEY CAN'T CARRY, SO WE CAN HELP THEM, AND SHOW THEM THE LOVE OF CHRIST Galatians 6:2 ESV Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. BUT OFTEN, BECAUSE OF PRIDE, OUR SELF-IMPOSED LOAD IS MORE IMPORTANT TO US THAN ANOTHER PERSON'S GOD-IMPOSED BURDEN Galatians 6:3-4 ESV For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. [4] But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor. CARRY THE BACKPACK THAT CHRIST HAS GIVEN YOU, AND YOU WILL HAVE THE ABILITY TO HELP OTHERS CARRY THE DUFFLE BAG THAT HE HAS GIVEN THEM Galatians 6:5 ESV For each will have to bear his own load. GOD GIVES PEOPLE GIANT DUFFLE BAGS, FULL OF PROBLEMS THAT THEY CAN'T CARRY, SO WE CAN HELP THEM, AND SHOW THEM THE LOVE OF CHRIST BUT OFTEN, BECAUSE OF PRIDE, OUR SELF-IMPOSED LOAD IS MORE IMPORTANT TO US THAN ANOTHER PERSON'S GOD-IMPOSED BURDEN CARRY THE BACKPACK THAT CHRIST HAS GIVEN YOU, AND YOU WILL HAVE THE ABILITY TO HELP

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD Galatians 6:1 ESV Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. ALL SHEEP OCCASIONALLY FALL IN THE DITCH…BUT THEY DON'T STAY THERE Galatians 6:1a ESV Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression… IF YOU DON'T HAPPEN TO BE IN THE DITCH…CHRIST'S PLAN IS TO USE YOU…TO HELP FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH Galatians 6:1b ESV Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him… HELP FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH…THE WAY YOU WOULD WANT FELLOW SHEEP TO HELP YOU OUT OF THE DITCH Galatians 6:1c ESV Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness…. BE CAREFUL…NOT TO FALL INTO THE DITCH YOURSELF…WHILE HELPING FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH Galatians 6:1d ESV Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. ALL SHEEP OCCASIONALLY FALL IN THE DITCH…BUT THEY DON'T STAY THERE IF YOU DON'T HAPPEN TO BE IN THE DITCH…CHRIST'S PLAN IS TO USE YOU…TO HELP FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH HELP FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH…THE WAY YOU WOULD WANT FELLOW SHEEP TO HELP YOU OUT OF THE DITCH BE CAREFUL…NOT TO FALL INTO THE DITCH YOURSELF…WHILE HELPING FELLOW SHEEP OUT OF THE DITCH

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD “No life can surpass that of a man who quietly continues to serve God in the place where providence has placed him.” Charles Spurgeon KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT…NOT SOMEONE ELSE Galatians 5:24-25 ESV And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. LIFE IS NOT ABOUT COMPARING OURSELF TO SOMEONE ELSE…BUT BEING TRANSFORMED INTO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST Galatians 5:26a ESV Let us not become conceited… CONCEIT IS THINKING, THROUGH COMPARISON, THAT YOU ARE SUPERIOR TO SOMEONE ELSE. Galatians 5:26b ESV Let us not become conceited, provoking one another… CONCEIT IS ALSO, THROUGH COMPARISON, THINKING THAT YOU ARE INFERIOR TO SOMEONE ELSE. Galatians 5:26c ESV Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. LIFE IS NOT ABOUT COMPARING OURSELF TO SOMEONE ELSE…BUT BEING TRANSFORMED INTO THE IMAGE OF CHRIST KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT…NOT SOMEONE ELSE “No life can surpass that of a man who quietly continues to serve God in the place where providence has placed him.” Charles Spurgeon BE CONTENT IN CHRIST

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD SHEEP OCCASIONALLY FALL INTO A DITCH…SWINE STAY THERE AND WALLOW Galatians 5:19-21 ESV Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, [20] idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, [21] envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT CAN ALWAYS CONQUER THE WORKS OF THE FLESH Galatians 5:22-23 ESV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. FROM THE TIME WE ARE BORN AGAIN…UNTIL THE TIME HE TAKES US HOME…WE MUST CONSTANTLY NAIL OUR FLESH TO THE CROSS…SO THAT IT HANGS THERE…ALIVE…BUT POWERLESS TO CONTROL US Galatians 5:24 ESV And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. SINCE THE SPIRIT HAS GIVEN US LIFE…WE NEED TO LET HIM DIRECT OUR STEPS Galatians 5:25-26 ESV If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. [26] Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. SHEEP OCCASIONALLY FALL INTO A DITCH…SWINE STAY THERE AND WALLOW THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT CAN ALWAYS CONQUER THE WORKS OF THE FLESH FROM THE TIME WE ARE BORN AGAIN…UNTIL THE TIME HE TAKES US HOME…WE MUST CONSTANTLY NAIL OUR FLESH TO THE CROSS…SO THAT IT HANGS THERE…ALIVE…BUT POWERLESS TO CONTROL US SINCE THE SPIRIT HAS GIVEN US LIFE…WE NEED TO LET HIM DIRECT OUR STEPS

Driftwood Church at the Beach is located in Jensen Beach, Florida, and focused on helping each other see life from God's perspective. For more information about Driftwood Church, visit their website at www.driftwoodchurch.com

Psalm 1:1-6 ESV Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; [2] but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. [3] He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. [4] The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. [5] Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; [6] for the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

Continually Walk by the Spirit // Galatians 5:16-18 // Pastor Eddy Fredryk by Driftwood Church at the Beach

DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE YOUR FAITH IS FAILING? FOLLOW THE GOOD SHEPHERD! FAITH AND FAILING TO FIND COMFORT Psalm 77:1-3 NLT 1 I cry out to God; yes, I shout. Oh, that God would listen to me! 2 When I was in deep trouble, I searched for the Lord. All night long I prayed, with hands lifted toward heaven, (stretched out — poured out like water) but my soul was not comforted. 3 I think of God, and I moan, overwhelmed with longing for his help. DON'T GET FIXATED ON FEELINGS Psalm 77:4-9 NLT 4 You don't let me sleep. I am too distressed even to pray! 5 I think of the good old days, long since ended, 6 when my nights were filled with joyful songs. I search my soul and ponder the difference now. 7 Has the Lord rejected me forever? Will he never again be kind to me? 8 Is his unfailing love gone forever? Have his promises permanently failed? 9 Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he slammed the door on his compassion? FIXATE ON FAITH Psalm 77:10-15 NLT 10 And I said, “This is my fate; the Most High has turned his hand against me.” (Is God's hand against us?) (Who is God's hand against?) 11 But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. 12 They are constantly in my thoughts (meditation). I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works (musing or talking). 13 O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as mighty as you? 14 You are the God of great wonders! You demonstrate (declare) your awesome power among the nations. 15 By your strong arm, you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. FOLLOW THE GOOD SHEPHERD Psalm 77:16-20 16 When the Red Sea saw you, O God, its waters looked and trembled! The sea quaked to its very depths. 17 The clouds poured down rain; the thunder rumbled in the sky. Your arrows of lightning flashed. 18 Your thunder roared from the whirlwind; the lightning lit up the world! The earth trembled and shook. 19 Your road led through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters— a pathway no one knew was there! 20 You led your people along that road like a flock of sheep, with Moses and Aaron as their shepherds. ARE YOU FOLLOWING THE GOOD SHEPHERD? John 10:1-19 FOLLOW JESUS CHRIST, THE GOOD SHEPHERD, HE WILL NEVER FAIL.

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD 4 KINDS OF PEOPLE WHEN IT COMES TO BEING RIGHT WITH GOD 1-SELF RIGHTEOUS… DOOMED 2-UNRIGHTEOUS… DISTRAUGHT 3-CREATIVELY RIGHTEOUS… DECEIVED 4-CHRIST RIGHTEOUS… DEPENDENT CHRIST RIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:1 ESV For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. SELF RIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:2-4 ESV Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. [3] I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. [4] You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. CHRIST RIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:5-6 ESV For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. [6] For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. CREATIVELY RIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:7-12 ESV You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? [8] This persuasion is not from him who calls you. [9] A little leaven leavens the whole lump. [10] I have confidence in the Lord that you will take no other view, and the one who is troubling you will bear the penalty, whoever he is. [11] But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. [12] I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves! CHRIST RIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:13-14 ESV For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. [14] For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." UNRIGHTEOUS Galatians 5:15 ESV But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. 4 KINDS OF PEOPLE WHEN IT COMES TO BEING RIGHT WITH GOD 1-SELF RIGHTEOUS… DOOMED 2-UNRIGHTEOUS… DISTRAUGHT 3-CREATIVELY RIGHTEOUS… DECEIVED 4-CHRIST RIGHTEOUS… DEPENDENT WHICH ONE WILL YOU BE?

Driftwood Church led an Easter Sunrise Service on the beach on April 20, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. At the service, Pastor Eddy shared that, because of the resurrection, I am more sure of rising from the dead than waking up in my bed. Can you say that? The challenge was given to those who might have a hard time saying it with confidence, that they should become confident through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. That, through the power of the blood of Christ and his resurrection, they could trust in Jesus Christ to be the pardon for their sin and the hope of eternal life. "If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you." - Romans 8:11 ESV

Philippians 3 // Pastor Eddy Fredryk by Driftwood Church at the Beach

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD FAITHFUL FRIENDS ARE A GIFT FROM GOD Galatians 4:13-16 NLT Surely you remember that I was sick when I first brought you the Good News. [14] But even though my condition tempted you to reject me, you did not despise me or turn me away. No, you took me in and cared for me as though I were an angel from God or even Christ Jesus himself. [15] Where is that joyful and grateful spirit you felt then? I am sure you would have taken out your own eyes and given them to me if it had been possible. [16] Have I now become your enemy because I am telling you the truth? FAKE FRIENDS ARE OFTEN USED BY THE ENEMY TO DESTROY FAITHFUL FRIENDSHIPS Galatians 4:17-18 NLT Those false teachers are so eager to win your favor, but their intentions are not good. They are trying to shut you off from me so that you will pay attention only to them. [18] If someone is eager to do good things for you, that's all right; but let them do it all the time, not just when I'm with you. Proverbs 13:20 NLT Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. FEARLESS FRIENDS REMAIN FAITHFUL Galatians 4:19-20 NLT Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I'm going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives. [20] I wish I were with you right now so I could change my tone. But at this distance I don't know how else to help you. Proverbs 27:5-6 NLT An open rebuke is better than hidden love! [6] Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. Proverbs 27:9 NLT The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:17 NLT As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. FAITHFUL FRIENDS ARE A GIFT FROM GOD FAKE FRIENDS ARE OFTEN USED BY THE ENEMY TO DESTROY FAITHFUL FRIENDSHIPS FEARLESS FRIENDS REMAIN FAITHFUL Proverbs 18:24 NLT There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother. JESUS IS THAT FRIEND

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD WHY DO GODS THAT DON'T EXIST…EXIST? Galatians 4:8 NLT Before you Gentiles knew God, you were slaves to so-called gods that do not even exist. Romans 1:18-32 NLT But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. [19] They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. [20] For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. [21] Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. [22] Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. [23] And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles. [24] So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other's bodies. [25] They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. [26] That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires. Even the women turned against the natural way to have sex and instead indulged in sex with each other. [27] And the men, instead of having normal sexual relations with women, burned with lust for each other. Men did shameful things with other men, and as a result of this sin, they suffered within themselves the penalty they deserved. [28] Since they thought it foolish to acknowledge God, he abandoned them to their foolish thinking and let them do things that should never be done. [29] Their lives became full of every kind of wickedness, sin, greed, hate, envy, murder, quarreling, deception, malicious behavior, and gossip. [30] They are backstabbers, haters of God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They invent new ways of sinning, and they disobey their parents. [31] They refuse to understand, break their promises, are heartless, and have no mercy. [32] They know God's justice requires that those who do these things deserve to die, yet they do them anyway. Worse yet, they encourage others to do them, too. DON'T GO BACK TO GODS THAT DON'T EXIST…STAY WITH THE ONE TRUE GOD…WHO INTIMATELY KNOWS YOU AND UNCONDITIONALLY LOVES YOU. Galatians 4:9-12 NLT So now that you know God (or should I say, now that God knows you), why do you want to go back again and become slaves once more to the weak and useless spiritual principles of this world? [10] You are trying to earn favor with God by observing certain days or months or seasons or years. [11] I fear for you. Perhaps all my hard work with you was for nothing. [12] Dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to live as I do in freedom from these things, for I have become like you Gentiles-free from those laws… DON'T GO BACK TO GODS THAT DON'T EXIST…STAY WITH THE ONE TRUE GOD…WHO INTIMATELY KNOWS YOU AND UNCONDITIONALLY LOVES YOU. INTIMATELY KNOWS YOU AND UNCONDITIONALLY LOVES YOU.

Sermon Notes: GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD SATAN, THE FATHER OF LIES, OFFERS GLORY NOW, BUT FAILS TO MENTION THE CERTAINTY OF ETERNAL SUFFERING LATER. GOD ALMIGHTY, PROMISES SUFFERING NOW, BUT GUARANTEES GLORY FOR ETERNITY BEFORE SALVATION WE WERE JUST LIKE THE WORLD…BUT BEING PRESERVED BY GOD Galatians 4:1-3 ESV I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, [2] but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. [3] In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. SINCE SALVATION…THROUGH ADOPTION…WE HAVE INHERITED GOD…WHO GIVES US EVERYTHING HIS SON POSSESSES. Galatians 4:4-7 ESV But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. [6] And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" [7] So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. Romans 8:16-17 ESV The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, [17] and if children, then heirs-heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him. BEFORE SALVATION WE WERE JUST LIKE THE WORLD…DUPED BY SATAN, THE FATHER OF LIES, OFFERING GLORY NOW, BUT FAILING TO MENTION THE CERTAINTY OF ETERNAL SUFFERING LATER BUT SINCE SALVATION…THROUGH ADOPTION…WE HAVE INHERITED GOD…WHO GIVES US EVERYTHING HIS SON POSSESSES…PROMISING SUFFERING NOW, BUT GUARANTEEING GLORY FOR ETERNITY!

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD This week, in preparation to preach Galatians 4:1-7, Pastor Eddy dives into Ephesians 2:1-10 to provide a synopsis of salvation. THE SYNOPSIS OF OUR SALVATION Ephesians 2:1-10 ESV And you were dead in the trespasses and sins [2] in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience- [3] among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. [4] But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ-by grace you have been saved- [6] and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, [7] so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9] not a result of works, so that no one may boast. [10] For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

GALATIANS…THE GOSPEL OF GRACE…GIVES US FREEDOM THROUGH FAITH…TO BRING GLORY TO GOD BEFORE FAITH…WE WERE SELFISH BRATS…IN NEED OF A BABYSITTER Galatians 3:23-24 ESV Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. [24] So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. SINCE FAITH…WE ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST…SELFLESS BELIEVERS…HEIRS OF GOD…AND NO LONGER IN NEED OF A BABYSITTER! Galatians 3:25-29 ESV But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, [26] for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. [27] For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. [28] There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. [29] And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise. BEFORE FAITH…WE WERE SELFISH BRATS…IN NEED OF A BABYSITTER SINCE FAITH…WE ARE BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST…SELFLESS BELIEVERS…HEIRS OF GOD…AND NO LONGER IN NEED OF A BABYSITTER!