Hardin Valley Church Sermons

Back to the Bible 2024 Colossians 3:16-17 “The Great Battle of Today is not over Biblical infallibility, it is over Biblical illiteracy.” Kroll, Taking Back the Good Book. These verses simply state the Word of God is to “be at home in our hearts.” The Centrality of Jesus Christ The Word of Christ (Colossians 3:16) The Name of Christ (Colossians 3:17) Identification Authority We forgive because Christ forgave us (Col. 3:13). It is the peace of Christ that should rule in our hearts (Col. 3:15). The Word of Christ should dwell in us richly (Col. 3:16). The name of Christ should be our identification and our authority. “Christ is all, and in all” (Col. 3:11). How Do I know if the Word of God is at home in my heart? 1. Your Life will be controlled by the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit fills the life controlled by His Word. Ephesians 5:18-19 2. Your heart and voice are eager to sing about the Savior. 3. You exhibit submission willingly because you are under the Lordship of Christ. 4. You have a heart of gratitude – you delight in saying “Thanks.

The Next Step of Baptism Matthew 3:13–17; Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:1–7 Baptism is not necessary for salvation, but it is for obedience. Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. Baptism is the public announcement of the private repentance and faith. Baptism is the next step, not the last step, of obedience. What is Baptism? Immersion Identification with Christ's Death and Resurrection Identification with Christ Who Should be Baptized? Believers Not Unbelievers Why Should I be Baptized? Sign of Heart Obedience Sign of Heavenly Agreement Sign of Trinitarian Belief You cannot be Right with God and Reject His Commandments

The Good Shepherd John 10:7–15 The Jews were not only blind but that they were sinfully blind John 9:41 Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth. Cast of Characters Sheep Shepherds Criminals Jesus uses a real world example to teach a real world truth. In the real world, who you are spiritually close to and who you listen to determines your hurt or your happiness. People Who Want to Hurt You (vs.8, 12) Robber Thief Destroyer/Murderer People Who Should Help You (vs. 11) Hireling Other Religious People People Who Want to Help The Great Shepherd (Jesus Christ) He is the Door (vs. 6-7) He is the Defender (vs.10-15) The true shepherd saves (10:9). The true shepherd safeguards (10:10a). The true shepherd satisfies (10:10b). A good shepherd Points out the danger Notices when you are out of the safety of the sheepfold Knows the danger of being away from God Doesn't give up on you until the Great Shepherd does Wants you to be where you are safe and happy Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. Why Does this Matter? Jesus is the only one who Saves Jesus is the only one who Satisfies It is always dangerous to be away from Jesus You have real enemies

Reasons to Rejoice Over Jesus' Resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:12–19 1 Corinthians 15:54–57 If He is NOT Alive … Preaching about Jesus is senseless. Vs. 14 Faith in Jesus is useless. Vs. 14 All preachers and witnesses are liars or deceived. Vs. 15 Everyone is still dead in their sins. Vs. 17 All those who believed who have died are being punished forever. Vs. 18 Christians should be the most pitied people on Earth. Vs. 19 Because He Lives 1. Vindication - The Gospel is True. Vs. 14-15 (1 Timothy 3:16 ) 2. Forgiveness - There is Forgiveness of Sins. Vs. 17 (Ephesians 1:7) Change of Destination Change of Life Paid by the shed blood on the cross. 3. Justification (Romans 4:25) 4. New Life in Christ (Romans 6:4) 5. Hope for the Future (1 Peter 1:3-4) There is Hope. Vs. 19 Living Hope Dying Hope 6. Access to God's Power (Ephesians 1:19-20) 7. Victory Over Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57) Promise of Resurrection to life for Believers (1 Corinthians 15:20-23)

The Characters Around The Cross - Part 2 Matthew 27:26–44 Palm Sunday Passages Luke 19:28–38 ; Mark 11:9–10 3. The people and the passers-by - they mocked and abused Jesus (vs 39-40) The passers-by mocked Christ for two things: His claim to have the power to destroy and rebuild the temple (Matthew 26:60-61) His claim to be the Son of God (Matthew 26:64). 4. There were the religionists and government leaders - they mocked and taunted Christ (vs.41-43). These leaders ridiculed the four major claims of Christ: 1. He was the Savior 2. He was the King 3. He was the Son of Man who trusted God perfectly 4. He was the Son of God 5. There were the criminals - they mocked Christ (vs.44). 5 Great Truths 1. Men still don't love God. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” 2. Men still don't understand the penalty of sin or the way to heaven. 3. There are many who hate and revile Jesus Christ. 4. We must take up our Cross daily for Him. 5. The message of Christ's death and resurrection must become the passion of our lives.

The Characters Around The Cross Matthew 27:26–44 1.The Rulers - they passed judgment upon Christ - that He was a threat and must be destroyed (v.26). 2.The soldiers - they mocked and tortured Christ (v.26-38). 1. They scourged Christ (Matthew 27:26). “The chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). 2.They humiliated Christ before a hundred or more soldiers (Matthew 27:27). 3.They stripped Christ and put a scarlet robe on Him (Matthew 27:28). chlamús;. A garment of dignity and office. The purple robe with which our Lord was arrayed in scorn by the mockers in Pilate's judgment hall (Matt. 27:28, 31). When put over the shoulders of someone, it was an indication that he was assuming a magistracy. It may have been the cast–off cloak of some high Roman officer which they put over the body of Jesus to mock Him as if He were an official person. 4. They put a crown of thorns on the head of Christ and a reed in His hands (Matthew 27:29). 5. They bowed and ridiculed the claim of Christ to be king (Matthew 27:29). 6. They spat upon Christ (Matthew 27:30). 7. They beat Christ on the head with the reed (Matthew 27:30). 8. They stripped Christ of the kingly robe and put His own robe back on Him, aggravating the wounds. 9. They forced Christ to carry the cross until He was exhausted (Matthew 27:32). 10. They enlisted a Gentile to help with the cross of Christ (Matthew 27:32). 11.They escorted Christ to a terrible place for execution (Matthew 27:33). 12.They gave Christ vinegar mixed with gall (Matthew 27:34). 13. They crucified Christ (Matthew 27:35). 14. They gambled for the clothes of Christ (Matthew 27:35). 15.They sat down and stared at Christ (Matthew 27:36). 16.They shamed Christ and reproached His claim again (Matthew 27:37). “He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:8-11). 17.They added shame and reproach by crucifying Christ between two thieves (Matthew 27:38). “He was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors” (Isaiah 53:12).

Unless the Lord Builds The House 1 Samuel 1:28 ; Deuteronomy 6:4–7; Psalm 127:3 1. THE FOUNDATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY (Psalms 127:1–2) Psalm 127:1-2 What is necessary (127:1) The home must be built by the Lord (127:1) The home must be protected by the Lord (127:1) What is needless (127:2) Laboring in anxious independence of God is vain (127:2), but working under God and in obedience to His ways is fruitful (cf. 1:3). 2. The Blueprint for Construction (Deuteronomy 6:4–7) (1) Personal commitment (2) Parental communication In speech In symbols In surroundings Some years ago the city of Houston Texas waged an ad campaign to deter juvenile crime, the Houston Police Depart-ment came up with “Twelve Rules for Raising Juvenile Delinquent Children.” Begin with infancy to give the child everything he wants. In this way he will grow up to believe the world owes him a living. When he picks up bad words, laugh at him. This will make him think that it is cute. Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he is twenty-one and then let him “decide for himself.' Avoid use of the word “wrong.” It may develop a guilt complex. This will condition him to believe later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him and he is being persecuted. Pick up everything he leaves lying around. Do everything for him so that he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility on others. Let him read any printed matter he can get his hands on. Be careful, that the silverware and drinking glasses are sterilized, but let his mind feast on garbage. Quarrel frequently in the presence of your children. In this way they won't be shocked when the home is broken up later. Give a child all the spending money he wants. Never let him earn his own. Satisfy his every craving for food, drink and comfort. See that every sensual desire is gratified. Take his part against neighbors, teachers and policemen. They are all prejudiced against your child. When he gets into real trouble, apologize for yourself by saying, “I never could do anything with him. Prepare for a life of grief. You will likely have it. [Quoted by Charles Swindoll. You and Your Child. (Nashville, Nelson Pub., 1977) pp. 63-64.]

His Message, Our Mission Matthew 18:11–12; Luke 4:18–19 What Was His Mission? Who are the Lost? Any person in violation of God's moral law. Any person who doesn't know the truth about Christ, His saving work, or His saving message. Any person who knows, but rejects His claims on their life. What does Christ want to do for them? He is Seeking the Lost He wants to Save the Lost What is His message? Preach the gospel to the poor Proclaim spiritual release to the captives Provide recovery of spiritual sight to the blind Proclaim freedom those who are spiritually oppressed What is our response? If we are LOST we should repent and surrender our lives to His truth. As the church, we should have Compassion on the lost. As the church, we should HELP get them to Christ. I will pray and INVITE.

Who Can Have Revival? Psalm 138:1-8 1. God Revives Those who Confess Spiritual Failure in their Lives Revival presupposes failure. It is only those who admit failure and fainting whom God truly revives. Prayerlessness - Luke 18:1 If a man is not praying, he is fainting. The word “to faint” here is “to cave in” or “to break down.” E.M. Bounds, the great prophet of prayer, said: “Every revival of which we have any record has been bathed in prayer.” Fearfulness - Hebrews 12:3-4 “to faint” means “to relax,” or “to let out rope.” Barrenness - Galatians 6:9 to faint or relax is to be barren, to lose the fruitfulness of harvest. 2. God Revives Those Who Express Practical Faith in their Lives God of Personal Revival God of Purposeful Revival God of Powerful Revival

How to Be Prepared for Jesus to Return - The Return of the King 1 Thessalonians 5:3–11 1. Don't Be Asleep When Jesus Comes (4-5) The believer is not in darkness. The believer is a child of light The believer is a child of the day. 2. Don't Be Asleep Before Jesus Comes (6-7) To watch means to be alert and on guard to live for Christ. To be sober means to be rigid in discipline & control for Christ; to live a life of righteousness & godliness, ever watchful for the return of the Lord. 3. Do Be Awake (8) Be Sober and Protected Put on the Armor of God 4. Remember why you are to stay awake (9-10) Not Appointed to Wrath Christ Died for Us 5. Wake up Others (11) Comfort - exhort, encourage, and admonish Edify - strengthen and build each other up

The Return of the King The Wrath of the Lamb Revelation 6:9–17 If we aren't willing to die for Jesus, it is hard to believe we will live for Him. Seal Judgements Severe Judgment is Coming God is in Control Repentance is not Optional Sharing Your Faith is Essential Bible Prophecy is Accurate The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse First Seal – False Peace / Bloodless Conquest (Revelation 6:1-2) Second Seal – War (Revelation 6:3-4) Third Seal – Famine (Revelation 6:5-6) Fourth Seal – Death (Revelation 6:7-8) Fifth Seal – Cry of the Martyrs (6:9–11) Position Plea Promise • Gift • Word Sixth Seal - Cosmic Wrath of the Lamb (6:12–17) A great earthquake. The sun became black as sackcloth made of hair. The whole moon becomes like blood. The stars of the sky fall to the earth. The sky appears to split apart like a scroll when it is rolled up. Every mountain and island are moved out of their places. Eternity is Real. My Comfort is less important than people coming to Christ. Judgment is Coming – Soon! The Return of the King The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Revelation 6:1–8 Severe Judgment is Coming God is in Control Repentance is not Optional Sharing Your Faith is Essential Bible Prophecy is Accurate The Parallels Between Matthew 24:1-14 and Revelation 6 Conditions Matthew Revelation 6 False Christs 24:4-5 6:1-2 Warfare 24:6-8 6:3-4 Famine 24:7 6:5-6 Death 24:7-10 6:7-8 Witnessing 24:14 6:9-11 Cosmic changes 24:29 6:12-23 First Seal – False Peace / Bloodless Conquest (Revelation 6:1-2) Second Seal – War (Revelation 6:3-4) Third Seal – Famine (Revelation 6:5-6) Fourth Seal – Death (Revelation 6:7-8)

God Wants to Do Something New The Open Door in ‘24 Isaiah 43:16–21 TIME TALENT TREASURE TESTIMONY 1. God is Not Restricted to the Past Jeremiah 16:14–15 2. God is Not Restricted to Your Past Isaiah 43:22–25 Wayne Searls God gave them the Temple - they gave Him idol worship God gave them truth - they lived and proclaimed a lie God gave them His commands - they lived like they were suggestions. God gave them wealth - they used it to abuse the poor God gave them Himself - they gave Him nothing except rejection. 3. God Gives New Blessings Through Unknown Experiences 4. God Gives New Grace So We Can Give New Praise 1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: · S top making excuses · T ake an inventory of my life · A ct in faith · R efocus my thoughts · T rust God What are you hoping for in 2024? What new thing would you like God to do in your life in this new year? Whatever it may be remember… Don't restrict God's power to something He could only do in the past. Allow God to use unknown experiences to bring you the best for your life. Determine right now, whatever new thing it may be, God will get the glory.

Stewardship - My Commitment to God Luke 9:57–62 2 Corinthians 8:5 Our lives should be about finding the ones Jesus loves and giving them the gospel. What is STEWARDSHIP? Stewardship is the proper management of my life in order to enhance God's Kingdom. It is the recognition of His Lordship in my life. Giving Information • 5% of churchgoers tithe (Church Development). • Out of the 247 million U.S. citizens identifying as Christians, 1.5 million people tithe (Sharefaith). • 77% of tithers give more than 10% (Health Research Funding). • If every Christian tithed 10%, faith organizations would have an extra $139 billion each year (Health Research Funding). Average Giving Per Person in Church • The average giving amount per churchgoer is $17 per week (Health Research Funding). • That's $73.67 a month per giver. • That's $884 a year per giver. • U.S. Christians collectively make $5.2 trillion annually — nearly half the world's total Christian income (Health Research Funding). • Even though inflation rose in 2022, church giving also increased by 3.6% (reachrightstudios.com). Tithers only make up 10–25 percent of any congregation (Nonprofit Source, 2018) 8/10 people who give to churches have zero credit card debt (Nonprofit Source, 2018) Religious giving is down about 50% since 1990 (New York Times, 2016) On average, Christians give 2.5% of their income to churches. During the Great Depression, they gave 3.3%. (Nonprofit Source, 2018) Of families that make $75,000+, only 1% donated 1/10 of their income Reasons Not to Preach on Stewardship We are not in a budget crunch. Stewardship is not about raising money, it is about God raising His children. People will get upset and leave. The church will grow financially as it grows numerically. John Maxwell “Church Giving: The last thing to arrive at church and the first thing to leave.” COMMITMENT is NEVER an Automatic Process. Jesus is Asking for a Commitment Today from you about you. He wants you to commit your time, your talents, your treasure, and your testimony. 1. Count the Cost TIME TALENT TREASURE TESTIMONY 2. Bear the Cross First – proton (s) (first in order of importance) TIME TALENT TREASURE TESTIMONY 3. Follow Immediately “Let ME FIRST” TIME TALENT TREASURE TESTIMONY

A New Mission, Find Your One John 4:19–26 Our lives should be about finding the ones Jesus loves and giving them the gospel. This Woman is an outcast. immoral ignorant indifferent This Woman was unloved This Woman was lost. Luke 5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Salvation is an act of obedient worship and True Worship begins with confessing Jesus as Lord. 1. They Need the Love of Christ. 2. They Need Confrontation. 3. They Need the Law. The law is not a checklist to do to be right with God, it is a mirror to show us how much we have sinned. 4. They Need Conviction. 5. They Need Direction. 6. They Need the Truth. True worship is always about loving God, honoring God, obeying God, serving God from the heart. We worship God as He is revealed to us. – Father, Son, Spirit. Without the Word, you don't know how to Worship. What Sinners need is to know WHO God is In response to her faith and repentance, God reveals Himself to her. Who in your life does Jesus want you to “find”? Who are your praying for to come to Christ? Have You ever received Christ's offer for forgiveness?

A New Hope, A New You Colossians 3:1–11 How can my messed up life become this new reality? 1. The New Reality with Christ (3:1) where Christ (3:1) with Christ (3:3) when Christ (3:4) with Him (3:4) This new life is real and powerful, but so is remaining sin. Though it no longer is our master, it can still overpower us if we are not presenting ourselves to God as servants of righteousness. 2. The New Focus 1. Seeking the things above (3:1) 2. Setting the mind on things above (3:2) 3. The New Motivations 1. Died to Sin 2. Future appearance of Jesus 3. Life hidden with God 4. The New Approach to Sin “put to death,” v. 5 “rid yourselves,” v. 8 “do not lie,” v. 9 Kill You Take you off and throw you away Get Honest - Stop lying about how you are doing doing and what you are doing “Sexual immorality “Impurity” “lust" “greed” “idolatry” Why are they so bad? First, they are sins that incur “the wrath of God Second, they characterize your old life. “anger,” “rage” “malice” “Slander” “filthy language” “Stop lying.” 5. The New Focus New Life How Can I start? Repent and Confess 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Watchfulness / Prayerfulness Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. Radical Obedience Matthew 5:29–30

New Year, Old Perspective Luke 12:13-21 Brandon Glaspie

The Greatest Story Ever Foretold The War at Christmas Revelation 12:1-6 People Miss the Message of Christ's Coming People Miss the Meaning of Christ's Coming Sin is Always the Problem Jesus Christ and the Gospel is Always the Answer Scene War on Earth 12:1-6 War in Heaven 12:7-12 Characters Woman - Israel Male Child - Jesus Christ the Messiah (Rule Rod of Iron) Dragon - Satan Stars - Fallen Angels/Demons Signs 3 in Heaven 12:1,3; 15:1 4 on Earth - 13:13, 14; 16:14; 19:20 1. There is a Dragon in your Nativity. 2. God Sent a Savior like He promised. 3. Jesus has overcome the power & penalty of sin. 4. Jesus Christ is the Victor - Now & the Future

The Greatest Story Ever Foretold The Wonder of Christmas Isaiah 9:1–7 People Miss the Message of Christ's Coming People Miss the Meaning of Christ's Coming Genesis • Seed of the woman (3:15) • Shiloh (49:10) Exodus • Passover Lamb (12:3) Leviticus • Anointed High Priest (8:7–12) Numbers • Bronze serpent (21:8–9; John 3:14–15) • Star of Jacob (24:17) • Scepter of Israel (24:17) Deuteronomy • Prophet like Moses (18:15) • The great Rock (32:4; 1 Cor. 10:4) Joshua • Captain of the Lord's army (5:14) Judges • Angel of the Lord (2:1) Ruth • Family redeemer 1 Samuel • The great judge (2:10; Ps. 96:13; 2 Tim 4:8; Rev. 19:11) 2 Samuel • Seed of David (7:12–13) 1 Kings • Lord God of Israel (8:15, 25) 2 Kings • God of the cherubim (19:15) 1 Chronicles • God of our salvation (16:35) 2 Chronicles • God of our ancestors (20:6) Ezra • Lord of heaven and earth (1:2) Nehemiah • Covenant-keeping God (1:5) Esther • God of providence Job • Risen and returning Redeemer (19:25) Psalms • Anointed Son (2:2, 12) • Holy One (16:10) • Good Shepherd (23:1) • King of glory (24:7–10) Proverbs • Wisdom of God (8; 1 Cor. 1:24) • Architect at Creation (8:30; John 1:1–3; Col. 1:15–17) Ecclesiastes • The one above the sun Song of Songs • Chief among 10,000 (5:10) • Altogether lovely (5:16) Isaiah • Virgin-born Immanuel (7:14) • Wonderful Counselor (9:6) • Mighty God (9:6) • Everlasting Father (9:6) • Prince of Peace (9:6) • Servant (52:13) • Man of sorrows (53:3) Jeremiah • The Lord our righteousness (23:6; 33:16; Rom 10:4; 1 Cor. 1:30) Lamentations • Faithful and compassionate (3:22–23, 31–33) Ezekiel • The tender shoot (17:22) • The one who has the right to judge (21:27) Daniel • The rock (2:34) • One like a divine being (or like “the Son of God”) (3:25) • One like the Son of Man (7:13) Hosea • King of the resurrection (13:10–14) Joel • God of the battle (2:11; 3:2, 9–17) • Giver of the Spirit (2:28–32) Amos • Lord God Almighty (4:13) • Plumb line (7:7–9) Obadiah • Destroyer of the proud (1:8, 15) Jonah • Risen prophet (2:10) • God of the second chance (3:1–2) • Long-suffering one (4:9–11) Micah • God of Israel (4:1–5) • Born in Bethlehem (5:2) • God who pardons (7:18–20) Nahum • Avenging God (1:2) • Bringer of good tidings (1:15) Habakkuk • Eternal (1:12) • Pure (1:13) • Glorious (2:14) Zephaniah • King of Israel (3:15) Haggai • Desire of all nations (2:7) Zechariah • My Servant (3:8) • The Branch (3:8) • Builder of the Temple (6:12–13) • King of triumphal entry (9:9) • Pierced one (12:10) • King of the earth (14:9) Malachi • Sun of Righteousness (4:2)

The Greatest Story Ever Foretold The Hope of Christmas Matthew 1:1–23 Sin is Always the Problem Jesus Christ and the Gospel is Always the Answer People Miss the Message of Christ's Coming People Miss the Meaning of Christ's Coming How does the Birth of Jesus give hope to all mankind? Genealogy Human Heredity - (vss. 1-17) The Hope of the World is anchored in the Old Testament 3 Parts Abraham to David - God's Sovereign Grace in the World David to Exile in Bablyon - God's Singular Purpose in OT History Exile to Jesus - God's Saving Work in the World Divine Heredity (vss. 18-25) Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Jesus is the Virgin Born , Son of God 2. Names Jesus Christ Immanuel The lineage of Jesus answers the questions of Race in the plan of God Are we alone? How can I be helped with my sin?

The Greatest Story Ever Foretold The Promise of Christmas Genesis 3:8–19; Galatians 4:4–5 Everything Changed because of Sin 1. Relationship with God 2. Relationship with Others 3. Relationship in Marriage 4. Relationship with Family 5. Relationship with life - death Everything Changes because of Jesus Galatians 4:4–5 4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. This is the Promise of Christmas 1. Relationship with God 2. Relationship with Others 3. Relationship in Marriage 4. Relationship with Family 5. Relationship with life - death Sin is Always the Problem Jesus Christ and the Gospel is Always the Answer

Five Kernels of Blessing* Psalm 103:1-13 1. The Kernel of Forgiveness (vs. 3) This forgiveness is a… Promise of the Father Provision of the Son Proclamation in the Bible Required practice in the church 2. The Kernel of Redemption (vs. 4) Psalm 40:2,3 3. The Kernel of Healing (vs. 3) All healing is divine healing This verse doesn't say that God heals everyone's diseases, but that He heals all diseases. Remember the Psalmist is speaking to his soul. 4. The Kernel of Love and Compassion (vs. 4) 5. The Kernel of Satisfaction & Renewal (vs. 5) * The story from the Mayflower Compact and the resulting Biblical blessings came from an article I read from Bruce Howell.

God Wants You to Be Thankful 1 Thessalonians 5:16–22 ; Ephesians 5:3–4 ; Ephesians 5:18–20 “Giving someone else thanks is not a given on Thanksgiving,” said McConnell. “But four times as many people give thanks to family or God than choose to thank themselves.” A quarter of those aged 18 to 34 (24%) and 19% of 35- to 49-year-olds say they thank themselves on Thanksgiving, compared to 9% of those aged 50 to 64 and 6% of Americans 65 and older. Why is being Thankful such a big deal? 2 Timothy 3:2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Romans 1:21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; Ingratitude is a sign of a lost heart and a backslidden Christian. Un-thankfulness is a sign of the pagan generation. Why is being Thankful so difficult? Circumstances Comparisons Complaining Consumerism Callousness of Others (It is) Contrary to Our Spirit The same voice that praises God for His provision and blessing should be the same voice that trusts God when he doesn't have so much that it will ruin him. 1. Manner of Giving Thanks Not “For” Everything “In” Everything 2. Method of Giving Thanks eucharisteo – often translated praise – it is done via the mouth – praise offering Attitude Action Thanks Smile Song Countenance Notes 3. Motive for Giving Thanks Will of God Plan of God to be Saved Sanctified Spirit-Controlled Suffering Saying Thanks Don't Worry, Want, or Waste, Be Thankful Practice Daily the Discipline of Gratitude Purpose to Pray about the things that worry You Thankfulness says I trust God in my circumstances – Romans 8:28.

CORE VALUES Acts 2:42-47 OSCS (SW/MTS) MARSH U.S. NAVY (RET.) 1st Century Church Core Values… VS.42: Devotion VS.43: Reverence for God VS.44: Unity 1st Century Church Core Values… VS.45: Spirit of giving VS.46: Fellowship VS.47: Loved God and Loved each other What Purpose Do Core Values Serve? They are designed to help us shed noncompliant attitudes and behaviors They are standards to live by (24/7) They convict us What Purpose Do Core Values Serve? They motivate us to change for the better They help you to see purpose and meaning (self & others) They challenge us to be our best Military Service Core Values Christian Core Values Matthew 22:37-39 37 Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: Love your others as yourself. How Do We Love God? Acknowledge Him Have a relationship with Him Listen to Him Trust Him Be obedient (reverence) Honor Him in all you think, say and do Admit when you fail, repent, ask for forgiveness and then carry on smartly How Do We Love Others? Imitate our Savior Jesus Christ He had a loving spirit in all He said and did Deny yourself daily We were created to serve, not to be served Be transformed into the likeness of Christ By the Holy Spirit (submission) Forgive and ask for forgiveness When in doubt, refer back to core value #1 In a Nutshell A Military Member's and a Christian's Core Values Hold a person to a higher standard than others Requires one to deny themselves and be willing to lay down their life for others We Are at War… 11 Wear the full armor of God. Wear God's armor so that you can fight against the devil's clever tricks. 12 Our fight is not against people on earth. We are fighting against the rulers and authorities and the powers of this world's darkness. We are fighting against the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly places. (Eph. 6:11 – 12) The Threats Are Real Self Pride, bitterness, selfishness, jealousy, covetousness, greed, hatred, prejudices, unforgiveness, denial, etc… Society A love, desire or need for the things of this world Cultural pressures, laws, alliances, traditions & attitudes Satan The real enemy Christians are not immune to his attacks He has all fronts covered & he lives out his core values to kill, steal and destroy Recruiting an All Volunteer Service There is no greater calling than to be a faithful follower of Christ! There is no better time than now! There will be no POWs or MIAs when the war is over! What Will Your Discharge Papers Say? 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?' 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!' (Matt. 27:21-23) OR 21 ”His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matt. 25:21)

Why The Resurrection Of Jesus Christ Matters (1 Corinthians 15:1-20) Lee Strobel-Four Compelling Reasons To Believe The Resurrection  Execution - There is no credible historian, believer, or non-believer who would dispute the fact that Jesus was a historical figure and died at the hands of the Romans.  More than a few sources substantiate this fact. Jesus did exist and did die.  Early - The reports of Jesus being raised from the dead were not some fantasy concocted years after his death.  The resurrection story was circulating within weeks of His death on the cross.  What makes this even more striking is the next “E.”  Empty - There is no arguing this fact.  The tomb of Jesus was empty on the third day.  Even his enemies admitted to this crucial fact.  To have a resurrection, there must be an empty tomb.  The very soldiers guarding the tomb, under the threat of death, testified to the fact the tomb was empty. Jesus was gone.  Eyewitnesses - The number of eyewitnesses who testified to Jesus being raised is staggering.  In a court of law, one only needs one or two credible witnesses to substantiate the fact.  Here, we have 515 eyewitness accounts of the fact that Jesus lives, thus proving He is who He said He is. God in the flesh. Frank Turek-Six Evidences For The Resurrection Early Testimony- NT Documents written less than 40 years after the resurrection of Jesus.  Eyewitness Testimony-Over 140 details just in the book of Acts and the Gospel of John that only an eyewitness could know.  Embarrassing Details-People naturally don't like to make up embarrassing details about themselves in their stories or testimonies.  Excruciating Testimony-The crucifixion in and of itself is excruciating. Yet the men who witnessed the resurrected Jesus would go on to live excruciating lives, even to the point of being put to death.  Expected Testimony- Old Testament prophecies about the coming of a Messiah. Documents and scrolls were written years before the coming of the Messiah.  Extra-Biblical Testimony-Over 100 ancient, non-Christian sources within 150 years of Jesus's life that mention Jesus and the apostles very briefly, and they say the same basic story that the New Testament documents say.  Minimal Facts Argument Jesus died by crucifixion.  Experiences of the Early Disciples Transformed lives The spread of the Gospel message Christianity is not just based upon blind faith but historical fact.  Christianity is not a fabricated religion. The resurrection of Jesus Christ makes this claim all the more true.  Core Of The Christian Faith  Without the Resurrection Of Jesus Christ, our faith would have no foundation. (V. 12-19) Our Faith would be vain We would still be dead in our sins Those who have died before us believing in Christ are lost!! Pitied, seen as most miserable!!  Capstone Of The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:46-49) Without the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, there are several ways that history could have been written… All of these stories heard end with Jesus dying and staying dead. However, this is not how the story goes…. The reason why the disciples and apostles were able to go forward and preach the Good News was because of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.  Had not Jesus Christ raised from the dead as He said, there would be no Christ to present a Great Commission.  Without the resurrection of Jesus Christ… Our preaching would be meaningless.  The Gospel would be powerless.  Our witness would be ineffective.  Catalyst For The Changed Man or Woman Of God (V. 5-10) 12 Disciples (V. 5) Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, Thaddaeus, Simon Over 500 followers (V. 6) James, the Brother Of Jesus, and all the Apostles (V. 7) Paul (V. 8-10) Women who were the first to the tomb (Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of James, Joanna, Salome, and several other women-Matthew 28:1-2, Mark 16:1, Luke 24:10) Each of these went from persecutors, skeptics, and cowards to prominent leaders and missionaries of the early church. What was the catalyst???  Because the Resurrection of Jesus Christ matters, what does that mean for you and me?  Solid Foundation We Can Stand Upon Power In Our Preaching And Proclaiming Hope Beyond The Grave (1 Corinthians 15:51-58)

Keys to a Faithful New Testament Church | Acts 2:42-47  A Faithful church prioritizes learning and obeying God's word & doing His will A Faithful church experiences dynamic fellowship A Faithful church emphasizes the cross of Christ A Faithful church values constant & consistent prayer A Faithful church produces fruit A Faithful church has a heart for generosity & sharing A Faithful church is filled with joy

What Happens if You Miss the Rapture?* 2 Thessalonians 2:1–12 1. What is the Rapture? Next Major Event on God's Prophetic Calendar 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Sign-Less Event - Rapture Signs of Second Coming - Matthew 24 2 Peter 3:10 2. What Happens if You Miss the Rapture? Desertion Deception Damnation 3. What Can I Do to Prepare for the Rapture? * Years and years ago, Tom Farrell preached a message like this that I recorded in my Bible. There are obvious similarities to that sermon and others from other pastors. This is my take on this topic, with grateful acknowledgment that parts and pieces are cheerfully borrowed when they are more appropriate.

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse Revelation 6:1–8 Severe Judgment is Coming God is in Control Repentance is not Optional Sharing Your Faith is Essential Bible Prophecy is Accurate The Parallels Between Matthew 24:1-14 and Revelation 6 Conditions Matthew Revelation 6 False Christs 24:4-5 6:1-2 Warfare 24:6-8 6:3-4 Famine 24:7 6:5-6 Death 24:7-10 6:7-8 Witnessing 24:14 6:9-11 Cosmic changes 24:29 6:12-23 First Seal – False Peace / Bloodless Conquest (Revelation 6:1-2) Second Seal – War (Revelation 6:3-4) Third Seal – Famine (Revelation 6:5-6) Fourth Seal – Death (Revelation 6:7-8)

The Return of the King The Song for the Worthy One Revelation 5 5 Great Hymns of Praise Quartet - vs. 8 24 elders - vs. 10 Harps - 5:8 Angels - 5:11 All Created Beings - 5:13 Search for Worthy Redeemer (5:1-4) Seven Sealed Book Title Dead of the Earth The Scroll The Search The Selection of the Worthy One (5:5-7) Application God is sovereign over all. Jesus is the worthy one. The saints will reign with Christ. We should worship God. The Song of the Worthy One (5:8-14) The long-anticipated defeat of sin, death, and Satan is about to be accomplished and the Lord Jesus Christ will return to earth in triumph and establish His glorious millennial kingdom. The curse will be reversed, the believing remnant of Israel will be saved, and the church will be honored, exalted, and granted the privilege of reigning with Christ. Chapters 6 and following will unfold the ominous events of the Tribulation and describe the outpouring of God's wrath on the earth. Over and over from this point on, what occurs will be described in terms of God's wrath and judgment as an outpouring of His holy and righteous character. Singers (5:8) Fell Down Sang The Song to the Worthy One (5:9-10) He Was Slain on cross Redeemed us by His blood Made us a kingdom/kings Made us Priests We will reign Seven-Fold Superiority of the Worthy One (5:10-14) power riches wisdom strength honor glory blessing

The Return of the King Worthy is the Lamb Revelation 5 5 Great Hymns of Praise Quartet - vs. 8 24 elders - vs. 10 Harps - 5:8 Angels - 5:11 All Created Beings - 5:13 Search for Worthy Redeemer (5:1-4) Seven Sealed Book Title Dead of the Earth Scroll Search The Selection of the Worthy One (5:5-7) The Song of the Worthy One (5:8-14) The Return of the King Before the Throne of God Revelation 4 1. Place of the Throne (Revelation 4:1-2) Book of the throne - 45x vs 15 Rest of NT 2. Person on the Throne (4:2-3) Jasper Sardius Emerald 3. People around the Throne (4:4) 13 views Redeemed representatives of the church 4. Proceedings Around the Throne (4:5-6) Lightning and Thunder - firestorm divine fury 7 lamps of fire 7 Spirits of God Sea of Glass like Crystal 5. Praise to the Throne (6-11) Four Living Creatures (6-8) Cherubim Holy, Holy, Holy 5 Great Hymns of Praise Quartet - vs. 8 24 elders - vs. 10 Harps - 5:8 Angels - 5:11 All Created Beings - 5:13 Praise God for His Holiness Eternality Power Creation They Give to God Glory Honor Thanks/Power He is Worthy!

The Return of the King Before the Throne of God Revelation 4 1. Place of the Throne (Revelation 4:1-2) Book of the throne - 45x vs 15 Rest of NT 2. Person on the Throne (4:2-3) Jasper Sardius Emerald 3. People around the Throne (4:4) 13 views Redeemed representatives of the church 4. Proceedings Around the Throne (4:5-6) Lightning and Thunder - firestorm divine fury 7 lamps of fire 7 Spirits of God Sea of Glass like Crystal 5. Praise to the Throne (6-11) Four Living Creatures (6-8) Cherubim Holy, Holy, Holy 5 Great Hymns of Praise Quartet - vs. 8 24 elders - vs. 10 Harps - 5:8 Angels - 5:11 All Created Beings - 5:13 Praise God for His Holiness Eternality Power Creation They Give to God Glory Honor Thanks/Power He is Worthy!

Yesterday's Message for Today's Church Revelation 3:20-22 Honest View Jesus knows & cares about your church. What Jesus thinks of your church is what matters. “Is our church Biblically healthy?” His evaluation matters more than your feelings. A church can be outwardly successful, but a spiritual disaster. Prophetic View Center of Prophecy is Jesus Christ. Church have a primary part in history & prophecy. These 7 churches allow us to see “the church” throughout history. When church is gone, it will be Hell on Earth. Practical View The ministry of the Holy Spirit & the Sufficiency of Scripture is enough for any church in any circumstance to be victorious. Judgement appears as a loss of Gospel witness & Holy influence. We must repent for disobedience, worldliness, self-sufficiency, and lack of compassion towards the lost. What would Jesus say to our church? What would Jesus say to our to You?

The Church That Makes God Sick Revelation 3:14-22 1. The City (3:14a) Banking Manufacturing Pharmacy Colossae - Cold Springs Hierapolis - Hot Springs 2. The Answer, Jesus Christ, the one that is the Amen, Faithful and True Witness, and the source of creation and supreme person in creation. (3:14b) 3. The Church (3:15-22) Not Hot Not Cold Lukewarm Wretched Miserable Poor Blind Naked 4. The Counsel (3:18-19) Spiritual gold Spiritual clothes Spiritual sight 5. The Challenge (3:19-20) Be Zealous Repent 6. The Call & Invitation (3:20) Jesus Stands Jesus is Knocking Jesus invites to a new relationship

Relationships - Holy Spirit Greater Works Than These John 14:6–17 ; 26 Are you satisfied with your effectiveness for Jesus? The Promise Of The Greater Works We have Greater Methods We Have a Greater Ministry The Power Behind The Greater Works 1. Belief and Obedience 2. Prayer 3. Holy Spirit Our Responses Apathy Arrogance Acknowledgement

Relationships: Finances Psalm 24:1 Matthew 6:19–21 1. True wealth is not measured in money. Proverbs 23:4–5 Exposes our Relationship with God Exposes Our Relationships with others. 2. Debt is a form of slavery, so get out as fast as you can. Proverbs 22:7 3. Lasting wealth comes from consistent discipline, not “get-rich-quick” schemes. Proverbs 13:11 1 Timothy 6:6 4. It ALL belongs to God. We are just managers of it. Psalm 24:1 Matthew 25:21 Colossians 3:23–24 5. Money is NOT evil, but greed is. 1 Timothy 6:10 6. Generosity blesses both the giver and the recipient. 2 Corinthians 9:7 Proverbs 22:9 Proverbs 11:25 7. You can't take it with you, but you can make an eternal difference. Matthew 6:19–21 I love God More Than _______________ I will break free from the slavery of debt! I dedicate my use of His resources by ____________ I want my life to count for eternity.

Relationships: Faithfulness Exodus 2:1–6 3 Models of Faithfulness 1. Jochebed Defended her children from Evil Faith to do what is right in face of death. Trusted God with her life and her children to an uncertain future. Changed her story, changed our story. 2. Rahab Joshua 2:11 Hebrews 11:31 James 2:25 Matthew 1:5-6 God's Grace greater than her past. Testimony of God's faithfulness to change lives. Changed her story, Changed our story. You can finish differently than you start. 3. Eunice Navigating two worlds. Timothy would navigate two worlds well. She suffered well 2 Timothy 3:11 Shared Gospel generationally 2 Timothy 1:5 Spiritual parent

Relationships - Church Health 1 Corinthians 1:4–9 Why aren't you spiritually healthy? Why isn't every church spiritually healthy? 1. Gift of Salvation - From Sin to Holy Living Past – Grace of God given (vs 4) Present – Moment when Gospel was Heard and Believed (vs 6) Future – God is coming for us, His church (vs. 8) 2. Gift of Speaking for God to Others - Evangelism Utterance All Knowledge 3. Gifts of the Spirit (Spiritual Gifts or Enabling) God has given what you need to evangelize people and build up a church. 1 Corinthians 12:11–12 4. Gifts of Fellowship Koinonian intimacy with God and intimacy with each other TRUTHS It will be ok God will be on display God will Judge God is faithful – when we are unfaithful.

Relationships: Sin 2 Samuel 12:1–14 When we don't deal with sin in our lives and our churches, we invite family disaster, personal shame, and spiritual judgment. What Happens When I Don't Deal with Sin? 1. THERE IS CONSTANT CONVICTION Psalm 32:3-4 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. 4 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah. 2. THERE IS AN EMOTIONAL CONFRONTATION 2 Samuel 12:7 3. THERE SHOULD BE A BROKEN CONFESSION Psalm 51:1-4 4. THERE CAN BE A GLORIOUS CLEANSING Psalm 51:7-12 5. THERE ARE ALWAYS HEARTBREAKING CONSEQUENCES Death of a child Sexual Sin begetting sexual sin Violence in the family Division in the family

James Lynch

Your Relationship with the Bible Affects Everything about You Why Should We Care about the Bible? 1. The Bible is Holy Scripture 2. The Bible is Wholly Sufficient Salvation Sin Sinner Sanctification 3. The Bible Demands Wholehearted Submission Rob Reinow - 4 Questions Do You Believe the Bible is God's Word? Do You Believe the Bible is true in all that it intends to say? Are you willing to submit all your thoughts and opinions on every subject to what it says? Are you willing to do what the Bible says, even if you don't want to? How Do I know if the Word of God is at home in my heart? 1. Your Life will be controlled by the Holy Spirit 2. Your heart and voice are eager to sing about the Savior. 3. You exhibit submission willingly because you are under the Lordship of Christ. 4. You have a heart of gratitude – you delight in saying “Thanks.”

The Road to Easter: His Victory - Our Hope Luke 23:44–24:12 The Resurrection of Christ changes everything. It can change everything for you. Grace Gore Grief Gone 1. Changed Fearful Disciples to Faithful Disciples 2. Changed Fearful Disciples to Faithful Disciples 3. Changed Way We View Death 4. Changed Way We Look at Jesus 5. Changed Way we view our sin and shame

How Do We Approach People After the Resurrection? John 20:25

The Road to Easter: His Cross Luke 23:26–49 1. The Cross of Christ Contusion Laceration Abrasion Penetration Perforation Incision 2. The Crossroads to the Cross Lifetime of Sin Looming Judgment 3. The Crossroads at the Cross At the Cross Brokenness meets Grace Their Last Opportunity Our Only Opportunity

Finding Rest in a Stressful World Matthew 11:28–30 5 C's of stress Change Conflict Criticism Concerns Crisis The Message The Invitation to All People: Rest of Following Christ The Invitation to All Followers of Christ: Rest from Stress Exchange (take) yoke for yoke Exchange burden for burden Exchange priorities for His priority The Marvelous Conclusion

Know Your Enemy | Ephesians 6:10-13 Prepared for Battle Ephesians 6:10–12 1. You Must Realize You are in a Battle Supernatual Personal Futile 2. You Must Recognize Your Enemies Ephesians 2:2–3 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. World Flesh Satan 3. You Need the Lord's Strength God's Might God's Mighty Work Once We Were Now We Are Dead (2:1) Alive (2:5) Under the dominion of Satan (2:2) Seated in heavenly realms (2:6) Objects of wrath (2:3) His glorious inheritance (1:18) Separate (2:12) Brought near (2:13) Foreigners (2:19) Fellow citizens (2:19) Aliens (2:19) Household members (2:19) Denied gospel mystery (3:5) Understanding gospel mystery (3:4) Infants (4:14) Maturing in Christ (4:15) Old self (4:22) New self (4:24) Darkness (5:8) Light (5:8) 4. You are Not Fighting Alone

Prepared for Battle Ephesians 6:10–12 1. You Must Realize You are in a Battle Supernatual Personal Futile 2. You Must Recognize Your Enemies Ephesians 2:2–3 2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: 3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. World Flesh Satan 3. You Need the Lord's Strength God's Might God's Mighty Work Once We Were Now We Are Dead (2:1) Alive (2:5) Under the dominion of Satan (2:2) Seated in heavenly realms (2:6) Objects of wrath (2:3) His glorious inheritance (1:18) Separate (2:12) Brought near (2:13) Foreigners (2:19) Fellow citizens (2:19) Aliens (2:19) Household members (2:19) Denied gospel mystery (3:5) Understanding gospel mystery (3:4) Infants (4:14) Maturing in Christ (4:15) Old self (4:22) New self (4:24) Darkness (5:8) Light (5:8) 4. You are Not Fighting Alone

Praying for the Lost 1 Timothy 2:1–8 Priority Of Praying For The Lost Position Prayers Supplications Prayers Petitions Thanksgiving People To Include When Praying For The Lost Power Of Praying For The Lost Products Of Praying For The Lost

Your Work Matters to God Ephesians 6:5-9 Spiritual Filled Living – Workers Your Work Matters to God 1. You are to Honor God as you work as an Employee Obedience Honor/Respect Humility Honesty Expectancy 1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 2. You are to Honor God as you Work as an Employer Managerial Golden Rule: “And, ye masters, do the same things unto them…” Understand You Are Equal Before God Work Like Christ Work for Christ Lead Through Christ Lead Like Christ Lead for Christ * Tony Merida

Spiritual Filled Family – Children Children in the 21st Century Ephesians 6:1-4 Spiritual Parents are to lead their children to be Spirit-filled adults. Spiritual Leaders Spiritual Examples – As Disciples and Spouses Children need wisdom, guidance, and protection Children need to be trained. Fathers according to the Bible have the primary role in childrearing “Parents are meant to be teachers of truth and trainers in righteousness” - Swindoll 1. Who Is a Child? 2. What Does God Expect of Children? Obey Honor Immediately Completely Sweetly 3. What is the Warning to Fathers? Negative Don't Provoke to Wrath – seething, swelling anger Positive 1. Bring them Up – nourish, feed. "Bring them up with words. "Gentleness Mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual needs 2. Nuture– training, Discipline, punishment Proverbs 19:18 Chasten thy son while there is hope, and let not thy soul spare for his crying. Proverbs 15:32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. Hebrews 12:11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. 3. Admonition – verbal instruction and/or warning 4. What is the Promise to children?

Has Anybody Seen Grace? Acts 11:19-26 The Question The Challenge “Amazing grace, How sweet the sight, That shows, God's love divine, The lost can only see, God's love so pure and free, When it's shown, from hearts like yours and mine” “These are just some things we want, we know we probably can't get all of what is asked. Although we appreciate what we are given and what we receive”

When the Mystery Becomes Messy When Real Life Collides with Biblical Truth What is the biblical idea of marriage? Stott summarizes it well: Marriage is an exclusive heterosexual covenant between one man and one woman, ordained and sealed by God, preceded by the leaving of parents, consummated in sexual union, issuing in a permanent mutually supportive partnership, and normally crowned with the gift of children. (Involvement,163) Marriage is to be permanent, sacred, intimate, mutual, and exclusive. 1. What if your spouse/gf/bf sins against you? What is the Key? **Forgiveness ** Ephesians 4:32 **I will not hold it against you I will not bring it up again I will ask God for grace in my heart to do the first 2. ** Real forgiveness deals with the sin. Stop saying it is ok, no big deal. CALL IT SIN. 2. What about Porn? Emotional, mental, physical abuse? Violence, alcohol, drugs, etc. Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Matthew 19:8–9 8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. 3. How do I deal with Bitterness? Forgive Pray for offender to become a follower of Christ, God to change their life 4. What are the ingredients for a great marriage? Mutual Submission Honor/Respect Love 5. How much will it take for a marriage to be successful? vs. 31 100% Leave and Cleave 6. What if I am single? 1 Corinthians 7:7–9 7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. Date only Christians Date only faithful Christians Resist Temptation 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 7. Should I marry an unbeliever? 1 Corinthians 6:18–20 18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. 2 Corinthians 6:14–15 14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 8. Can I remarry? Do I have to remarry? Biblical Divorce = Biblical Remarriage Matthew 5:32 32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery. Matthew 19:9 9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. 1 Corinthians 7:1–15 1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. 5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. 7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. 8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. 9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. 12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. 15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 9. What I didn't choose a Biblical option? Confess sin Repent. Stay in the marriage you are in. 1 John 1:9 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Spiritual Filled Family - Husbands Ephesians 5:22-33 Marriage is to be permanent, sacred, Christ-centered, intimate, mutual, and exclusive. Wives are to Follow/Submit to their Husband's Loving Leadership Wives are to Honor their Husbands by demonstrating their respect. Keys Wife – Support & Honor Your Husband through Respect 5:22-24 Husband – Cherish & Honor Your Wife through True Love 5:25-27 Husbands are to Biblically Love and Honor their Wives As Spiritual Leaders As Spiritual Examples What Does that Love Look Like? Sacrificial Sanctifying Nourishing Satisfying Witnessing