Forestgate

Matthew 26:1-13

Matthew 21:1-11

Judges 3:12-30 Sermon Notes:1) The Introduction of an Ironic Savior | 12-15a2) The Presentation of a Mysterious Gift | 15-183) The Preparation of the True Sacrifice | 19-264) The Liberation of the Lord's People | 26-295) The Question of the Lord's Presence | 30, 15-27Reflection Questions:1) Is it ok to laugh at this story? Why or why not?2) Why does the story tell us that Eglon was fat? Is that usually a positive quality in the Bible? What does Psalm 73:1-7 say about fatness and pride? What does Psalm 73 teach us about jealousy?3) Was Ehud a perfect savior? What kind of savior did Israel deserve? (See vv.12- 15) Should they (and we) appreciate the salvation that does provide?

Judges 3:7-11 Sermon Notes:Judges outline from Ralph Davis:1:1-3:6 – The Failure of the Second Generation3:7-16:31 – The Salvation of a Long-suffering God3:7-11 – The Paradigm of Yahweh's salvation (Othniel) (Today's passage)3:12-5:31 – The Excitement of Yahweh's salvation (Ehud and Deborah)6:1-8:32 – The Weakness of Yahweh's salvation (Gideon)8:33-9:57 – The Antithesis of Yahweh's salvation (Abimelech)10:1 – 16:31 – The Strangeness of Yahweh's salvation (Jephthah and Samson)17:1-21:25 – The Confusion of a Depraved PeopleToday's outline:1) Israel did evil in the eyes of the Lord, 7-8a2) The Lord sold Israel into the oppressor's hands, 8b3) Israel served the oppressor for eight years, 8c4) Israel cried out to the Lord, 9a5) The Lord raised up a deliverer, 9b6) The Spirit of the Lord was with the deliverer, 10a7) The oppressor was subdued, 10b8) The land had rest for 40 years, 11Reflection questions:1. Why is “crying out” by itself not true repentance? See Judges 2:18-19 and 3:9; 2 Cor 7:8-11.2. What does it mean to enter God's rest? See Hebrews 3:7-4:11.3. Consider the following two quotes: “Yahweh's [The Lord's] wrath is the heat of his jealousy by which he refuses to let go of his people. He refuses to allow his people to remain comfortable in sin.” (Ralph Davis) “God never lets Christians sin successfully.” (Ed Hart)

Judges 2:6-3:6 Sermon Notes:1) A Generation Who Didn't Know God | 2:6-102) A Generation Who Did Evil | 2:11-153) A Generation of Testing | 2:20-3:64) A Generation of Judges | 2:16-23Reflection questions:1) Judges 2:3 says that idols can become a “snare” and a “thorn.” How does idolatry (or any sin) become like snare or a trap? See Romans 7:14-8:1.2) Why did God send Judges for Israel? Was it because of their repentance or in spite of their repentance? What does that tell you about God? What does it motivate you to do? See Judges 2:18 and Romans 2:4.3) God tested Israel. Did they pass the test? What should you do if you're worried about passing God's test? (See both 1 John 1:9 and 2 Peter 1:5-11.)

Judges 1:1-2:5 Outline of Judges (From Ralph Davis): 1:1-3:6 - The Failure of a Second Generation 3:7-16:31 - The Salvation of a Long-Suffering God Chapters 17-21 - The Confusion of a Depraved PeopleSermon Notes:1) A Just War | 1:1-22) A Sufficient Grace | 1:1-20 (See 2 Cor. 12:9)3) A Theological Map | 1:18-364) A Godly Grief? | 2:1-5 (See 2 Cor 7:9-10)Reflection questions:1) What did Israel say was the problem with their lack of success (see 1:19, 27-28)? What did God say was the problem (see 2:2)?2) In Judges 2:1, God said he would never break His covenant with His people? Even in this passage, do you see any sign that God has changed His mind about His covenant, or is God still being faithful to His people?3) Was Israel's grief “Godly grief”? How can you tell the difference between Godly grief and worldly grief in your life? (See 2 Cor 7:9-10) Can you always tell if someone else's grief is Godly or worldly?

Ephesians 6:10-24 Sermon Notes:Ephesians 6:10-24 “The Armor of God and Our Daily Battles”1. The Armor that God Supplies | 10-20 a. The enemy | 10-13 b. The armor | 13-17 c. The army | 17-20 2. The Daily Battles God's People Face | 21-24 a. Itineraries and encouragement | 21-22 b. Incorruptible blessings | 23-24 Reflection questions:1) Do you think verses 10-20 are meant to be an encouragement to the weak and struggling, or a warning to those who are self-confident and self-assured? 2) While Paul uses many metaphors in this passage, what types of activities (or spiritual disciplines) are clearly encouraged or commanded? In which areas are you most consistent? In which areas could you improve? What's one step you could take to improve in one of those areas? 3) Paul uses the word “stand” several times in this passage. (See verses 11, 13, 14, as well as “withstand” in verse 13.) Based on how often he uses that word, do you think spiritual perfection or everyday faithfulness is what he expects?

Ephesians 6:1-9 Sermon Notes:Four lessons about authority:1) Children, obeying authority brings long life | 1-32) Fathers, teach your kids to fear God more than you | 43) Men under authority, God will repay your labor | 5-8 (cf Mt 8:9-11)4) Masters, God will call you to account, too | 9Reflection questions:1. Children, when is the last time you disobeyed your parents? Does God's promise to you (in 3) make the idea of obedience seem easier?2. Parents, when is the last time you were harsh with one of your children? Did you apologize to them for your harshness? Do they know that God has expectations for both of you?3. What are the various authorities in your life? Which ones are the hardest for you to obey?4. What power and authority do you have in your life? Do you use it to threaten others, or do you use it in a way that honors your Master?

Ephesians 5:18-33 Sermon Notes:1) The Universal Submission that Christ Requires | 18-212) The Unique Submission that Shows Respect | 22-24, 333) The Loving Sacrifice that Sanctifies Another | 25-304) The Great Mystery that Displays the Gospel | 31-33Reflection questions:1) If we as Christians are being filled with the Spirit, what type of behavior should we expect to see? VV. 18-21.2) Why does Paul include the words, “as to the Lord,” in v.22? Consider this explanation from John Calvin: “Not that the authority is equal, but wives cannot obey Christ without yielding obedience to their husbands.”3) How does Paul instruct husbands to love their wives? (Consider, from Calvin: “No man can love himself without loving his wife. Therefore, the man who does not love his wife is a monster.”)4) How is marriage a picture of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? If you're married, how you can love your spouse in a way that displays a picture of the love of Christ?

Colossians 3:12-4:6 Sermon Notes:1. The Essence of God's Family2. The Work of God's Family3. The Purpose of God's FamilyReflection Questions:1. Who we are in Jesus has changed us to our core. Our nature is fundamentally different than what it used to be, and different from those around us in the secular world. Why do we need to hold on to that identity and live out of that identity? What should our new identity change in the practice of how we live?2. There are many things Paul could have said to the various family (and secular) rolls to exhort them in godliness. Why do you think that Paul summarized the calling of these rolls in the ways that he did? In your own roles in God's family, how does your new identity in Christ empower your calling?3. Why do you think Paul concludes his exhortation to the family of God by urging them to be continually in prayer, and always exercising wisdom? How does the ongoing brokenness in our relationships necessitate our need for prayer and wisdom?

Ephesians 5:1-22 Sermon Notes:We're called to imitate God in the world because…1) God's people are children of love, not lust | 1-42) Unholy people will not enter His Kingdom | 5-73) God's people are children of light, not shameful secrets | 8-144) God's people live in evil days | 15-175) God's people exude godliness when they're filled with the Spirit | 18-22Reflection questions:1. Read vv. 3-7, is your speech “fitting” for a Christian? Are there any types of jokes that you need to eliminate from your vocabulary?2. Read vv. 7-14 – Are there ways that you need to discern what is pleasing to the Lord in your life? Are there patterns of living that conform too closely to the world around you and do not exhibit a clear expression of goodness, righteousness, and truth?3. Are you consciously trying to make the best use of your time, v16, in all areas of life? What's one way you can better “redeem” the time? 4. What is the ultimate reason to walk in love? The ultimate reason to forgive others? See Eph 4:32-5:1.

Ephesians 4:29-32 Sermon Notes:How can you build better unity in your Biblical Community?1) Speak to build up, not tear down | 292) Eagerly maintain unity of Spirit; don't grieve the Spirit | 30 (cf 4:3)3) Get rid of malice and its friends | 314) Freely give the grace of forgiveness | 32a5) Remember who forgave you | 32bReflection questions:1) How often do you un-ironically, un-sarcastically compliment someone? How often do you ask what word might best fit the occasion and give to your hearer(s)? Who is someone to whom you can speak grace (and make grace come alive) today?2) Is malice (and her evil friends, v.31) something that grieves (v30) the Holy Spirit? Read v.30-31; which one of these evil friends do you need to put away today?3) Is God asking us to do the impossible in Ephesians 4:29-32? Is God asking us to do anything more than He has already done for us?

1 Samuel 17 Sermon Notes:Finding Our Place in The Story of Redemption1. The Raging Giant | 1 Sam. 17:1-112. The True King | 1 Sam. 17:26, 32-37, 43-513. The Victorious Army | 1 Sam. 17:52-53Reflection Questions:1. What did you find helpful or surprising about this new look at a familiar passage?2. Can you think of more ways that King David points to Jesus from this story?3. In what areas of your life are you challenged by the call to boldly and joyfully follow Christ?4. How might the fact of your salvation in Christ embolden you in areas of life beyond your faith?

Revelation 5 Sermon Notes:1. Who is Worthy?2. The Worthy Gives Worth3. The Work Proceeding from HopeReflection Questions:1. Why did Jesus give John a vision instead of just telling him what was to come? What does this narrative in Revelation 5 convey about God's glory and power, and how might that be an encouragement to God's people who are waiting for Jesus' return?2. John was overwhelmed with grief when there was no one who was worthy to open the scroll, but hope is found in the Lion who is the Lamb of God. It can be hard for us to see our dependance on Christ so clearly, like John is able to here. What ideas distort our perspective so that we do not see our dependance? How might you practice patient reliance on Jesus more in your everyday life?3. Out of the three main activities that the Elders display here in Revelation 5 (Speaking Comforting Truth, Offering Prayer, and Worship), which one do you struggle with most? What is a practical way you can exercise that weakness? Who will keep you accountable to growing in that way?

Matthew 2:1-12 Sermon Notes:Main Point: Jesus, alone, is the King of kings.1. The Jewish Heart was not Ready (vv.1-3)2. Forsaking Plausible Deniability (vv. 3-8)3. How the Magi were Right (vv. 9-11)4. How Herod was Right (v.12)Reflection Questions:1. What does Herod's antagonism against the messiah teach us about mankind? Sin?2. What do you make of the star phenomena in Matthew 2? What conceptions are challenged by this miracle?3. How might we benefit from more precisely meditating on Christ's reign as the King of kings this Christmas?4. What application to our lives today can be made from the reminder that rulers who rage against Christ, like Herod, will be subjected to the King of kings?

Matthew 1:18-25 Sermon Notes:1) No good deed unpunished | 18-19 2) No good thing withheld | 20-23 (Ps 84:11) 3) No temptation not common | 24-25 (1 Cor 10:13) Reflection questions:1) “Christians believe in the virgin birth of Jesus. Atheists believe in the virgin birth of the universe.” - Glen Scrivener. Which miracle has more evidence? What does the miraculous birth of Jesus tell you about God's purpose in sending His Son to earth?2) Matthew 1:21 says that Jesus “will save his people from their sins?” Does God promise to save us from our sins? Does God promise to save us from the sins of others on this side of heaven? Are we promised inner renewal, enabling us to be salt and light in a dark world? Or are we promised more than that until Jesus returns? 3) When difficulties happen to you, are you quick to accuse God of “withholding” His goodness? Read the following passages (Ps 84:11; Phil 4:19; 1 Cor 10:13; 2 Peter 1:3; Ps 73) and ask how we should view of God's provision to us?

Matthew 1:1-17 Sermon Notes:1) The Lord is Faithful to His Promises | 1, 6, 11-12, 16-172) The Lord is Gracious to the Undeserving | 1-63) The Lord is Just to the Wicked | 7-114) The Lord is Powerful for the Weak | 12-17Reflection Questions:1. What can you learn from a list of names in the Bible? Would you agree that it proves that “God never tires of naming the names of His people”? (Ralph Davis)2. How can you see God's grace to characters like Rahab (see Joshua 2); Ruth (See Ruth, especially chapters 2-3); David (see 2 Sam 7, 11-12 and Psalm 51) and others?3. How can you see God's justice in this story, which mentions the Exile, or Deportation? How should we respond when we see God's justice? See Romans 3:23-26. 4. How can you see God's power for the weak in this story? Joseph was a Son of David (cf Mt. 1:20), but was he a powerful person? Also see Luke 1:46-56, aka, The Magnificat.

Ephesians 4:25-28 Sermon Notes:Put on Truth, Righteous Anger, and Hard-Working Generosity, because:1) God's Son died to make obedience possible | (Eph 2:8-10)2) God's People belong to each other | 253) God's Enemy wants our anger to destroy our Body | 26-274) Other People may need our help | 28Reflections questions:1) Are you saved by your good works? Are you saved for good works? Read Ephesians 4:25-28 and then read 2:8-10. Why does God expect you to be able to meet His high calling?2) What are all of the commands in vv. 25ff supposed to promote within the Church? See Ephesians 4:1-6. 3) What are some obvious ways that lies, anger, and greed tear apart Christ's body? What are some of the less obvious ways that we break the commands regarding truth, anger, and generosity? Think of one supposedly “respectable sin” for each category that you can Put Off in the future. (No sin is supposed to be respectable. Jerry Bridges used that term to describe sins that aren't as widely condemned that we should still repent of.)

Ephesians 2:26-27 Sermon Notes: 1) Put On Holy Anger, and Make Sure It's Holy | 26a 2) Put Off Cancerous Anger Quickly | 26b 3) Beware the Enemy, who Seeks an Opportunity for Destruction in Our Anger | 27 Reflection questions: 1) Does God's word ever endorse hatred or anger? See Eph 4:26; Psalm 4:4; and Ps 119:53. Regarding Ps 119 – Does the Psalmist hate people, or their actions? 2) Does this passage warn against the dangers of anger? Can you name all three qualifications or guardrails for our anger? Which is easier – putting on holy anger for the right reasons, or avoiding the sinful excesses of anger? What are three steps you can take to avoid the three common errors of anger? 3) What kind of “opportunity” for the Devil is God (speaking through Paul) urging the church to avoid? Why should we be eager to avoid an opportunity for Satan, and what should we be eager to maintain as a Church? See Ephesians 4:1-6, 27.

Ephesians 4:17-25 Sermon Notes:1) Our Calling to Walk as Christians | 17-212) Our Calling to Dress as Christians | 22-243) Our Calling to Speak as Christians | 25Reflection questions:1. How does Paul describe the logical result of how Gentiles (non-Christians, in this case) walk, v17-19? Does he mean that there is no hope for non-Christians? Is he trying to show what this life will lead to unless someone changes course?2. Is it possible for a Christian to not live like a Christian, to not dress like a Christian? What type of clothes has God given us, and why should we be grateful for them? (See Genesis 3:7, 21; Isaiah 61:10-11; Revelation 19:6-9.)3. Truth, in love, builds up (Eph 4:15-16), so what would falsehood do to the Body of Christ? What is the next hard conversation you plan to have with someone? Have you thought about how you can speak the truth in love to that person?

Ephesians 4:11-16 Sermon Notes:1) God's blood-bought gifts empower us to attain unity and maturity | 11-132) God's blood-bought gifts empower us to clarify our essential doctrines | 143) God's blood-bought gifts require us to grow together by truth and love | 15-16Reflection questions:1) Is Christian unity something you are thankful for, something you're eager to maintain, or is it something you are striving to attain in its fullness? Which one(s) should it be for you? See Eph 4:1-6 and 11-13.2) What does the Bible say about teaching, doctrine? It is something that can cause division and therefore should be avoided? Is it something we should learn more about, something that helps us grow together? (See Eph 4:13-15)3) Are you more characterized by truth or love (v.15) in your interactions with others? Does God give us a choice, or does He call us to embrace both, speaking the truth in love? Is there one area (truth or love or both) that you need to grow in, for your own sake and for the sake of the body of Christ?

Ephesians 4:7-12 Sermon Notes:1) Every Christian receives a gracious gift | 72) Christ is the Champion and Giver of our Gifts | 8-103) The Word of God is the clarifying foundation for every gift | 114) Building up other Christians is the Purpose of Every Christian Gift | 12Reflection questions:1) How do our God-given gifts show us how God bestows value on His people? (See Gen 1:26-28; Eph 2:1-9) How does the purpose of our gifts keep us from becoming prideful and arrogant? See v.12.2) What gift have all God's people received? (see Ephesians 2:1-9) Do we also receive unique gifts? See v.7. Are those unique gifts meant to highlight our uniqueness, or do they have another purpose? See vv. 1-7, 12.3) Who is our Great High Priest as Christians? Is there also a sense where every believer is a priest or minister or servant of God?

Ephesians 4:4-6 Sermon Notes:We should be eager to maintain our unity (Eph 4:3) because…1) We are One Spirit-filled Body, 4a2) We have One Allegiance-demanding Lord, 4b-53) We have One Family with One Father, 6Reflection questions:1. Pardon the 17th -century English (and use Google for the hard words if you have to), and ask how this quote should motivate you to maintain unity with your brothers and sisters in Christ: “All saints … being united to one another in love … have communion in each other's gifts and graces, and are obliged to the performance of such duties, public and private, as do conduce to their mutual good, both in the inward and outward man.” (Westminster Confession of Faith, 26.1)2. To borrow a line from John Calvin, do you dread every kind of animosity among the people of God? What are some reasons that you should want to strive for unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace?3. Read Ephesians 4:1-4 and Galatians 5:22-23. How does the Holy Spirit help us to stay unified as a Body of believers?

Colossians 3:1-17 Sermon Notes:1. The God Context | vv 1-42. Garments of Death | vv 5-93. Wearing Love | vv 10-17Reflection Questions:1. What things do you think about most often? Are your thoughts shaped by what Jesus has accomplished and the hope of eternal life, or are they reflections of earthly pursuits? How might The God Context reframe those things that occupy your attention?2. What ways does our world subtly excuse or even promote the sins and heart attitudes in verses 5-9? How can naming the root sins help you see and protect yourself from treating them as "respectable sins?"3. Review the qualities in verses 12-13. If you remove love, what happens to these characteristics of the new self? How can we guard ourselves against this temptation?

Ephesians 4:1-3 Sermon Notes:1) The Master of our Calling | 12) The Manner of our Calling | 23) The Motivation of our Calling | 3Reflection Questions:1) John Stott says, “The life worthy of the calling of God is a life in the fellowship of the people of God.” How are you striving to (or how could you) increase Christian fellowship in your life right now?2) Why do you think William Hendriksen said that humility (v2) is the “first, second, and third essential of the Christian life?” What can/does lack of humility do to your life, your family's lives, your church's fellowship?3) What's one way that you can be more patient (“longsuffering towards aggravating people” - Stott) with one person or one group of people in your life? Why does God call us to such patience? See Ephesians 4:32.

1 Samuel 16 Sermon Notes:Main Point: Learn to see how God sees.1. How Man Sees | vv.1-52. How The Lord Sees | vv. 6-103. How The Lord Provides | vv. 11-134. How Man Provides | vv. 14-23Reflection Questions:1. Why is it so easy for us to see the world from our perspective rather than Gods? Especially after God has just demonstrated that his ways are better than our own.2. What difficulties in life are particularly hard for you to trust God in the midst of?3. In what ways are you particularly tempted to think you know better than God?4. What do you think of the idea that there is power in beauty?5. Do you still struggle with elements from this passage? If so, which ones? Why?

Ephesians 3 Sermon Notes:1) The Puzzle Now Solved | 1-6 2) The Proclaimer Now Equipped | 7-13 3) The Prayer: Deeper Knowledge | 14-19 4) The Praise: Greater Glory | 20-21 Reflection questions:1) What mystery is Paul talking about in vv. 1-13? Is it still a mystery, or has it been revealed? 2) Read the following passages, in order (as best we can tell) of when Paul wrote them: 1 Cor. 15:8-10; Ephesians 3:8; 1 Tim. 1:15. What does this tell you about Paul's growing self-awareness? Did his growing self-awareness give him more or less assurance of God's salvation? (See also, 2 Tim. 4:6-8, likely Paul's final letter.) 3) Read vv. 14-21. How would your life look differently if you were more rooted and grounded in love (v17)?

Ephesians 2 Sermon Notes:1) Our Grave Condition without Christ | 1-3, 11-122) Our Glorious Change in Christ | 4-10, 133) Our Great Privilege in Christ | 11-22Reflection Questions:1. Are vv.1-3 negative? Are they trying to make us feel bad about ourselves, or are they trying to show us the greatness of God's love and grace and mercy (cf v.4ff)? Compare v1 to Ezek 37:1-14. What does want God want Ezekiel to “know”?2. Is there one sense where mankind is passive when it comes to salvation? (And if so, who or what is active in salvation?) Does God expect mankind to stay passive after salvation? See v.10, especially.3. While Ephesians 3:11-19 is talking primarily about unity in Christ for Jews and Gentiles, is that same unity amidst diversity true today for Christians with different backgrounds, different nationalities or ethnicities, and/or differences of other kinds?

Psalm 22

Ephesians 1 Sermon Notes:1) The Greetings that the Apostle gives us from Christ, 1-2 SaintsGrace and Peace2) The Blessings that we have in Christ, 3-14 Chosen, 4 Children, 4-5 Redeemed, 7 Rich, 11 Secure, 13 3) The Desire to Clearly See the Deep, Deep Love of Christ, 15-23 Our Hope Our Inheritance Christ's Might Christ's Height Christ's Headship Reflection Questions:1. Why does the New Testament call Christians “saints”? Are we holy/saints if we do enough good things? Or are we holy because of someone else's work and sacrifice? See 2 Cor 5:21 and Hebrews 10:11-14. 2. Based on Ephesians 1, what does it mean to be “in Christ”? See some other passages where Paul uses similar language: 2 Cor 5:21 (yes, again); Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:1-4 3. Ephesians 1:15-23, is Paul praying for the Ephesians (and other readers, including us) to know something they've/we've never heard about it, or to know certain truths more deeply and clearly?

Genesis 4 Sermon Notes:1) Sin Wins | 1-7 2) Blood Cries Out | 8-11 3) Curse Carries On | 11-14 4) Vengeance Saves | 15-17 5) Culture Advances | 16-24 6) Remnant Calls | 25-26 Reflections questions:1. Does it ever feel like sin or sinners are winning in this life? See Psalm 73; how did Asaph wrestle with that same feeling? 2. Does it ever feel like sin is winning in your life? Read Romans 7:1-8:1 (just like last week), but also read James 1:14-15. How does sin gain the victory over us? What are some of the preliminary steps? Does God provide a way out? Also see 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. 3. Why doesn't God wipe out all sinners the minute they sin? Is this a sign of His weakness, slowness, or some kind of idle threat? Or is it good news? See 2 Peter 3:8-10 and Romans 2:3-5.

Genesis 3:8-24 Sermon Notes:1) The Presence that Exposes | 8-13 2) The Promise that Sustains | 14-15 3) The Punishment that Reminds | 14-19 4) The Propitiation that Covers | 20-21 5) The Protector that Foreshadows | 22-24 Reflection questions:1. Do God's attributes (His presence/omnipresence, omniscience, holiness and more) cause you to run from Him, or to invite Him in? Compare Genesis 3:1-13 to Isaiah 6, Luke 5 (especially v8), and Psalm 139. What does David see in Psalm 139 that causes Him to invite God in (vv23-24)?2. How is Genesis 3:15 a promise to God's people and not simply bad news for Satan? Trace the promise through the following passages: Galatians 3:13, 16; 4:4; Romans 16:20; Revelation 12 and 20.3. How do the continuing effects of sin, the fall, and the curse remind us of our need of (and provision of!) a Savior? See Romans 7:1-8:1.4. How does God offer us a better covering than the one we can make for ourselves? See Genesis 3:7-8, 21; also see Isaiah 61:10; 64:6; Revelation 19:6-9; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:6-9.

Genesis 3:1-12 Sermon Notes:1) Naked Aggression | 1-52) Naked Ambition | 5-63) Naked and Afraid | 7-12Reflection questions:1. How does Eve mishandle/misremember/misstate the Word of God when talking with the serpent? (Compare Genesis 2:16-17 to 3:1-3.) How might an accurate remembering of the Word of God have helped her? See Psalm 119 (Especially vv. 9, 105) and Revelation 22:18-19.2. Read I John 2:15-17. How do you see Eve being tempted by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life in Genesis 3:6? Now read Matthew 4:1- 11. How is Jesus tempted by the same temptations (and by the same tempter)? How does Jesus defeat those temptations?3. How does Adam respond (v.12) when God directly confronts him about his sin in v.11? Does his reaction show us anything about our own natural tendency to run from God when confronted with our sin? How does confidence of God's love counteract this natural/SINFUL tendency to run? See Psalm 139; compare vv.1-7 to vv.23-24.

Colossians 2:6-23 Sermon Notes:1. Dwelling in the Gospel | vv. 6-15a. The Emptiness of Creaturely Artificesb. The Fullness of Christ's Work2. Deliverance from Mere Shadows | vv. 16-23Reflection Questions:1. Paul says that we have been rooted, built up, and established in the faith in Jesus (v. 7) These verbs describe what God has done for us, and how he works in us. The last verb in that verse is our response: abounding in thanksgiving. How can habitual thanksgiving help to dwell in the gospel, and live in accordance with the gospel, instead of drifting towards empty philosophies and burdensome traditions?2. As Paul begins to tell the Colossians how they ought to live, he again reminds them of what Jesus has done for them (vv. 9-15). Look back at Colossians 1:1- 2:5. How many times has Paul reminded the Colossians of what Jesus has done? How many ways has he shown them the gospel? Why do you think Paul emphasized what Jesus has done in this way before telling the Colossians how they ought to live?3. The burdens and shame that come from self-made religion and asceticism (v 23.) seem at first to be helpful tenants of religion, but they cannot change the heart. What is a struggle in your life that you have tried to conquer with rules and practices? How might resting in your union with Jesus in his death and resurrection lead to real heart change?

Genesis 2:4-25 Sermon Notes:1) Mankind's Paradise | 4-142) Mankind's Purpose | 15-173) Man's Partner | 18-25Reflection questions:1) How do you see hints of God's goodness in creation in Genesis 2:4-14? What does mankind need that he doesn't have in the home that God created? How will God one day restore all that we need in our future home?2) Was man's obedience to God (see God's purpose for and command to man in Gen 2:15-17) an act of worship? How should our whole lives be lived in worship to God even now, on this side of the Fall? See Romans 12:1-2.3) How can the first marriage (and the institution of marriage) inform our conduct today in our own marriage relationships? What does verse 23 (as well as v18, 20, 24-25) teach us about how we are each made for the other? (Also compare them to Ephesians 5:21-33.) How is it instructive even for those who are currently single? (Compare Genesis 2:18a to Hebrews 10:24-25 as one example.)

Genesis 1:26-28 Sermon Notes:1) Created by God | 262) Created male and female | 273) Created for glory and honor | 284) Re-Created in Christ | See: 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 7; Philippians 1:6; 3:20- 21; I John 3:2-3; 1 Cor. 15:49Reflection Questions:1. Are all mankind made in God's image? What is one implication of being made in God's image? See Genesis 1:26-28.2. Has our sin marred the image of God in man? Has it been completely destroyed; is it irrecoverable? Can the image of God be redeemed in Christ? See Ecclesiastes 7:29; Romans 8:29; Col 3:9-10; Eph 4:24; 2 Cor 3:17-18; Col 1:15- 20; I John 3:2-3 and 1 Cor 15:49.3. In heaven, will God only redeem our souls (the spiritual, immaterial part of us), or will He also redeem our bodies? See Philippians 3:20-21; I John 3:2-3.

Genesis 1:1-2:3 Sermon Notes:1) God is Creator | 1:12) God is Trinitarian | 1:1-3, 26-273) God is Extraordinary | 1:3, 5-7, 144) God is a Detailed Designer | 1:26-285) God is a Delegator | 1:28-306) God is Good | 1:31-2:3Reflection questions:1. If God created all things, then why is mankind so tempted to create meaning and purpose outside of God's Word? Why are you tempted to do this?2. Loneliness is mentioned in Genesis 1-2, but was God ever lonely? Why/why not? (See John 1:1-5; Acts 17:23-26.)3. Do you ever struggle with the thought that God's promises are too good to be true? How is that thought similar to the way that Satan would tempt Adam and Eve? (Cf Gen 3:1.) What would you tell a friend if they said that (His promises are too good to be true) to you?

Acts 4:32-5:14 Sermon Notes:1) Great Power | 4:32-35 2) Great Grace | 4:33-37 3) Great Deception | 5:1-11 4) Great Gear | 5:5-14 Reflection questions:1) Why might it be easier if we were commanded as Christians to relinquish our private property? What difficult decisions could we avoid? (No, I am not suggesting we should or that the Bible says we should.) 2) Does this passage say why Ananias lied? How do you think Satan tempted him to lie? What reward was he seeking? (Cf. Matthew 6:2-4 for one possibility.)3) Is the great fear that fell upon the church an encouraging note to you? What does it mean to fear God? See Hebrews 12:18-29.

Acts 4:23-31 Sermon Notes:1) The Servants released | 232) The Servants raise their voices | 243) The Nations rage | 25-274) The Lord reigns | 27-285) The Lord responds | 29-31Reflection questions:1) What aspects of the disciples' prayer stick out to you? How can the circumstances and the words of this prayer teach us to pray?2) Read Psalm 2. What parallels do you to the story of Acts 3-4 (see vv. 25-27 for a hint) as well as the story of the entire Bible?3) The disciples prayed for boldness to speak God's Word, and their prayer was answered. (In a way, it's answered again at the end of Acts – see Acts 28:30-31.) Is there one person (or more) to whom you want courage to speak God's Word?

Psalm 126 Sermon Notes:1) The great things He has done | 1-3 2) The gladness we have | 3 3) The restoration we seek | 4-6 Reflection Questions:1. “The Lord has done great things for us.” (v3) What great things has the Lord done for you?2. “We are glad.” (v3) Does joy (and gladness) characterize your life as much as the Bible suggests it should? See 1 Thess. 5:16-18. What can you do to cultivate joy in your life, while still leaving room for Biblical lament?3. “Restore our fortunes, O Lord!” (v4) Are your prayers as bold as this one? Can you be bold in prayer while still holding your earthly wishes loosely, accepting whatever outcome God sends?

Judges 21:25; 1 Samuel 8:4-9:2 Sermon Notes:Main Point: “God's People Need God's King”1. A King is the Right Answer2. Israel Wants the Wrong King3. The Wrong King Brings Us Closer to the Right KingReflection Questions:1. What are some examples of things you are wrong to put your trust in? Why these things?2. How does Jesus offer a better version of what these worldly objects of hope promise?3. What might you do daily/weekly/monthly...to help you more consistently place your trust in Christ when you are tempted to turn to other people or things?

Colossians 1:24-2:5 Sermon Notes:1) Grief is Not Wasted2) The Hope of Glory3) The Realities of SufferingReflection Questions:1. If our suffering is not wasted, then surely we should be able to see how God has redeemed suffering in the past. But in order to see that we might have to lift our gaze to beyond how we normally perceive our pain.What are some examples from scripture of God using other's suffering to bring hope to those around them? What are some examples of others in your life who have shown God's goodness through their suffering?If you can recognize those things, how might God be working in circumstances in your life now to reveal his redemption to you and to those around you? How can you then be intentional like Paul to proclaim Christ through your suffering?2. Those that Paul says have "plausible arguments" will try to persuade you that your suffering is meaningless. But in order to do that, they have to ignore what God produces in us through suffering. Does the result of our suffering justify the process? If God uses your temporary suffering, however painful and dreadful it may be, to bear witness to an eternal hope, is it not worth the cost? Consider and meditate upon Matt 13:44-46 and Phil 3:7-11.

Acts 4 Sermon Notes:1) The Word is not bound | 1-4 2) There is no other name | 5-12 3) We cannot help but speak | 13-22 Reflection questions:1) What do you notice in vv. 1-4 about the opposition to the church and its message and the spread of the church's message?2) What hard truth does Peter speak to the Jewish authorities (vv.8-12)? What comfort is contained in his words, for those who have ears to hear it?3) Can you see some respect to authority in Peter's answers (vv8-12, 19-20)? Is there also a limit to his respect? What command will Peter not obey?

Acts 3 Sermon Notes:1) A Man who Received Grace not Gold | 1-10 2) A Group who Received Guilt They Deserved | 11-16 3) A Chance to Receive Restoration from Sin | 17-21 4) A Group who Received Grace not Guilt | 22-26 Reflection questions:1. Can we do for others what Peter did for the nameless lame man? Can we follow Galatians 6:10? What is the significance of the following phrases in that verse: “as we have opportunity … everyone … especially to those who are of the household of faith.” 2. How responsible are you for the death of Jesus? (See vv.13-16 and notice all of the you's.) How responsible was Jesus for your salvation, your deliverance from death? See 2 Cor. 5:21; Acts 3:19-20. 3. Would you describe repentance as a decisive turning from sin to salvation in Christ (see 2 Cor. 7:10)? Would you also acknowledge that repentance is followed by a greater awareness of sin, and a greater realization of our need to fight against sin daily? See Rom. 6:15-19; 7:7-25.

1 Timothy 4:6-16 Sermon Notes:1) When your pastor hopes in the Living God, he can focus on godly doctrine, 6-7, 10. 2) When your pastor hopes in the Living God, he can strive for godly discipline, 7- 10.3) When your pastor hopes in the Living God, he can maintain a godly demeanor, 10-12. 4) When your pastor hopes in the Living God, he can maintain a godly devotion,10, 13-16. Reflection questions:1. Why did God include a letter from one pastor to another in the Bible? Is this letter only for pastors? What does Paul's benediction (1 Tim. 6:16, and be sure to check the footnotes) have to say about that? 2. Is physical training pointless? Is it valuable? How valuable? What's more valuable, and why? (See 1 Tim. 4:7-10; 1 Cor. 9:22-27; Phil. 3:12-14; 2 Tim. 2:1-7; 4:6-8.) 3.In what sense does Paul mean that Timothy can save himself? Compare this verse to the following: 2 Tim. 4:6-8; 1 Tim. 1:15; Phil. 2:12-13; Phil 3:1-9; Eph. 2:8-10.

Acts 2:1-41 Sermon Notes:1) A Sound | 1-2 2) The Spirit | 3-4 3) A Curse Reversed | 5-12 4) A Priest's Error Repeated | 13-15 5) A Prophecy Fulfilled | 16-21 6) A Romans Preview | 21 7) A Gospel Review | 21-24 8) A Resurrection in the Old Testament | 25-35 9) A Searing Conclusion | 36-37 10) A Spirit-filled Encore | 38-41 Reflection Questions:1) Compare and contrast Acts 2 (especially vv.1-11) with Genesis 11:1-9; pay attention to the language(s), the goals, where the people dwell. Then compare them both to Revelation 5, especially vv. 8-14. 2) Is every aspect of Joel 2:28-32 (which Peter quotes in Acts 2:16-21) fulfilled in Acts 2? When should we expect to see the rest of it fulfilled, according to the Bible? Also, when are “the last days”? (See I John 2:18) 3) What is the main focus on Peter's sermon (Acts 2:14-41) – tongues/languages, the Spirit, or the Resurrected Savior?

Acts 1 Sermon Notes:1) Apostolic Empowerment | 1-112) Apostolic Oblivion | 3-8 3) Apostolic Apostasy | 12-20 4) Apostolic Succession | 15-26 Reflection Questions: 1) Acts 1:3 says that Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of God during the 40 days before He ascended into heaven. What is the Kingdom of God? And what is the “good news of the Kingdom of God” (Luke 4:43)? 2) What does Jesus say will happen after His people receive the power of the Holy Spirit? What are all the ways you are currently witnessing (in small or large ways) about the good news of Jesus and its (current and future) impact upon your life?3) Does Acts record the casting of lots in chapter 1 to encourage us to use similar methods in our decision making? What about the presence of prayer? How can we know which parts of Acts are prescriptive (prescribing what we should do) and which ones are descriptive (merely describing what happened)? How can the rest of Scripture help us decide?

Isaiah 66 Sermon Notes:1) The Lord will right every wrong | 1-6 2) The Lord will fulfill every promise | 7-14 3) The Lord will proclaim His Kingdom to every coast | 15-24 Reflection questions:1. What are some of the most memorable verses from Isaiah for you? What chapter of Isaiah did you underline the most? (Note: Jesus doesn't love you less if you do/don't underline your Bible.) 2. How does knowing that God will right every wrong change the way you approach your life? See Matthew 10:22 and John 16:33. 3. What do the following passages show us about God's good news and His Kingdom, and what role we should play in proclaiming it? Isaiah 66 (especially v15-24); Numbers 6:24-26; Psalm 67; Romans 10:13-17.

Isaiah 65 Sermon Notes:1) God will definitely repay the rebellious | 1-7 2) God will definitely divide people into two distinct destinies | 8-16 3) God will definitely reward His remnant with delight | 17-25 Reflection questions:1. Do you ever think that your sins actions will not have eternal consequences, because you've been able to avoid really bad consequences so far? Did you know that people in the 1st - century once said that, too? How does Peter, let alone Isaiah 65, respond to that kind of thinking? See 2 Peter 3:1-10, especially vv.3-4, 9-10. 2. Why did Asaph become envious of the arrogant (v2) in Psalm 73? What did he forget about them (v27) and about himself (vv.23-28)? 3. How should our future hope affect our lives as we await that hope? See 2 Peter 3:11-15. (For a negative example, see 2 Thess. 3:6-15 and 1 Thess. 5:1-10.)

Acts 2:42-47

Isaiah 64 Sermon Notes:1) The Urgent Need of a Holy God |1-2 2) The Awesome Presence of a Holy God | 3-5 3) The Awful Pollution of an Apathetic People | 5-7 4) The Unanswered Question to a Faithful God | 8-12 Reflection Questions:1. Why does Isaiah want God to “come down” so urgently? Read vv. 1-3, then read vv.5-7. Couldn't Isaiah or the others just try harder? 2. What are some of the ways that God has answered Isaiah's question in v.12? In the century when Isaiah lived? In the days after the exile? Can we still ask those same questions (of v.12) today? 3. Do you ever have passing doubts about the resurrection? Consider what Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, especially v8. 4. Why is the resurrection so important? Read what Paul wrote to those who were doubting the resurrection: I Corinthians 15:17-19.