Impact Church Menifee

Key Scripture: Malachi 1:6-14 When it comes to gifts, "it's the thought that counts." When it comes to God, it's the heart that counts the most. The things we give to God and others are often tainted with sin and corrupted with selfishness. We give in order to gain and to get ahead. However, Jesus was the perfect Sacrifice, accepted by God on our behalf. We can now give joyfully, because of everything He has given to us. Scripture References and Quotes: 1. Hebrews 11:4 2. Isaiah 64:6 3. 2 Corinthians 9:7 4. Acts 20:35 5. 2 Samuel 24:23-24

Key Scripture: Malachi 1:1-5 "God loves you" is a phrase we hear often in church and usually take for granted. Yet when we go through pain and hardship, it's easy to doubt His love. To rest and revel in His love, we must understand it correctly. God's love isn't like human emotion or sentimentality. His love means He has chosen to enter into an unbreakable Covenant of steadfast loyalty and love with you, fulfilled by the Cross. Stop trying to earn what you already have. God loves you! Scripture References and Quotes: Quote: “We are frequently told, indeed, that the great danger of the theological student lies precisely in his constant contact with divine things. They may come to seem common to him because they are customary…The very atmosphere of your life is these things; you breathe them in at every pore: they surround you, encompass you, press in upon you from every side. It is all in danger of becoming common to you! God forgive you, you are in danger of becoming weary of God!” - B.B. Warfield 1. Deuteronomy 7:6 2. Isaiah 49:3 3. Genesis 3:15; 9:15-16; 12:2 4. Exodus 34:28 5. 2 Samuel 7:12-13 6. 2 Corinthians 1:20 7. Romans 5:8 8. 1 Corinthians 11:25

Key Scripture: Ephesians 4:1 As we follow Christ, we follow Him into our calling. God has made you for a life of significance. He has given you unique experiences, passions, talents and gifts - all of which He wants to use to make Christ-disciples and further His redemptive purpose in the world. Do you know your calling? Scripture References and Quotes: 1. Genesis 1:27 2. Psalm 139:14 3. Ephesians 2:10 4. Matthew 5:13-14 5. 1 Samuel 3:1-10 6. Jeremiah 18:1-6 7. "Just think: You are here not by chance but by God's choosing. His hand formed you and made you the person you are. He compares you to no one else; you are one of a kind. You lack nothing that His grace can't give you. He has allowed you to be here at this time in history to fulfill His special purpose for this generation. You are God's masterpiece. You have God's blessings and can do all things through God’s strength working in and through You!" - Roy Lessin

Key Scripture: Acts 2:42-47 Christian community is vital to Christian discipleship. While most of us would love to belong to a supportive, sacrificial community like the early Church, we fail to devote ourselves to the same things: the apostles teaching, fellowship, breaking bread and prayer. Until we recapture these devotions, our small groups will be nothing more than a gathering with friends - enjoyable, but void of disciple-making power. Scripture References and Quotes: 1. 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 2. Luke 6:46-49 3. Deuteronomy 4:2 4. Acts 15:37-38 5. 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Key Scripture: Luke 5:17-26 Church isn't just where you make friends, it's where you make family. We all need strong community to encourage us, challenge us and support us on our journey toward Christ-likeness. This can’t happen exclusively on Sunday mornings. Community is a seven-days-a-week thing. It means sharing your life with others and allowing them to share their lives with you. Do you have community, or are you still trying to do it alone? Scripture References and Quotes: 1. Genesis 2:18 2. 1 Peter 5:8 3. Ephesians 2:1-2 4. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Key Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22 To be a Christ-disciple means to be Christ-like. True spiritual growth isn’t measured by Bible-knowledge or how many hours per week we pray. The only real measure of Christian maturity is whether or not we’re becoming like Jesus in our character. Do we speak like Him, treat others like Him, think like Him, love like Him? Are we more like Him today than we were yesterday? Scripture References and Quotes: 1. Psalm 139:1-4 2. Proverbs 27:6 3. Luke 11:39-40 4. Mark 4:22 5. Genesis 1:27 6. Romans 5:12 7. Colossians 1:15 8. Hebrews 1:3 9. Ephesians 4:11-13 “It should amaze us to realize that when the Creator of the universe wanted to create something ‘in His image,’ something more like Himself than all the rest of creation, He made us! Every single human being, no matter how much the image of God is marred by sin, or illness, or weakness, or age, or any other disability, still has the status of being in God’s image and therefore must be treated with the dignity and respect that is due God’s image-bearer.” - Wayne Grudem

Key Scripture: 1 John 1:1-4 There is nothing and no one more important than Christ Himself. To be His disciple requires knowing and following Him every day. You can’t become like someone you don’t know, which makes relationship the foundation of discipleship. Do you know Jesus rightly? Do you know Him intimately? Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 7:21-23 1 John 5:19-20 John 17:3 4 Philippians 3:8 Ephesians 1:17

Key Scripture: Mark 10:17-22 Far worse than failure is succeeding at things that don't really matter. There are many good things a church can do, but what is the most important thing to accomplish? Making Disciples. Jesus is calling you to follow Him - to copy who He is and imitate what He does; to watch Him and learn from Him as you become more like Him. It won't be easy, but He is worth it! Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 21:18-20 Galatians 3:3 John 15:5 Luke 14:25-27 Luke 9:57-62 Philippians 3:8 Matthew 13:44

Key Scripture: Joshua 4:1-24 This time of year is often characterized with goal setting and planning ahead so that this new year is better then the last, which is great! But before we run into this next year, let's stop and look at what God has already done. Stopping to see God’s faithfulness may be looking at the past but that just might be what we need to have faith for the future. References and Quotes: 1 Samuel 17:32-37

Key Scripture: Luke 2:8-20 It's the most wonderful time of the year. It can also be the most stressful and overwhelming time of the year. There's so much we have to do, so much we need to buy and so many people we're trying to make happy. During these times, we must remember the good news we tend to forget: God sent His only Son to save and redeem us and to make us right with Him. Not only does He see you, He has called you into His family and given you the privilege of worshipping Him. Glory to God in the highest! Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 13:13-16 Psalm 27:1 Romans 1:18 Nahum 1:2 Matthew 26:39 Romans 5:1 Psalm 51:12 Ephesians 2:13 “I can safely say, on the authority of all that is revealed in the Word of God, that any man or woman on this earth who is bored and turned off by worship is not ready for heaven.” - A.W. Tozer

Key Scripture: Luke 1:5-25 John the Baptist isn't included in the nativity, but he's a big part of the Christmas story. He was chosen by God to prepare the way for Jesus in the world. He did this so well, Jesus called him the greatest man who ever lived. Today, you and I are called to prepare the way for Christ in the lives of others. We represent Him in the way we live and in how we love. Is this the kind of greatness you're pursuing? Scripture References and Quotes: 1 Corinthians 1:27-28 Mark 3:21 John 1:46 Matthew 11:7-11 John 1:29-31

Key Scripture: Luke 1:26-38 We often miss out on God's plans for us because we feel unworthy or we're simply unwilling. When an angel appeared to Mary, telling her she was chosen to bring Christ into the world, she was stunned. How could God choose a nobody like her to do such an incredible thing? While Mary knew her inadequacies, she also knew the greatness of God. While she knew the road ahead would be difficult, she also knew it would be worth it. Are you willing to allow God to use your life according to His will? Scripture References and Quotes: Luke 1:28-29 Hebrews 13:5 Matthew 1:23 Ephesians 3:20 1 Corinthians 4:1 1 Peter 2:16 Galatians 1:10

Key Scripture: Mark 3:13-19 Description: Christmas is the perfect holiday. Lights shining, music playing, and everyone looking so jolly in those well-staged social media posts. With everything and everyone around us so perfect, is it any wonder we feel like we don’t fit in? Our fears, faults and failures make us feel defective - like an outsider, a reject, a misfit. The Christmas story is all about misfits. Jesus came into this world as a Misfit and called other misfits to follow Him and gave them a place to belong. He’s still calling misfits today. Will you answer? Scripture References and Quotes: James 2:5 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 1 Samuel 16:6-7 Isaiah 66:2 1 Peter 5:5 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 John 15:19

Key Scripture: Acts 28:23-31 One day, we will stand in the company of the great men and women of faith who have gone before us. Theirs is an example of what it means to follow Jesus with uncompromising conviction and unwavering devotion. It’s easy for us to let the cares and concerns of this life distract us from following Him with our whole heart. We pursue lesser goals and waste too much time chasing after things that don’t ultimately matter. God is still writing His Story in this world through the Church. Will you be a part of it? Scripture References and Quotes: “In Acts, we see Christianity, the real thing, in action for the first time in human history. Here we are seeing the Church in its first youth, valiant and unspoiled - a body of ordinary men and women joined in an unconquerable fellowship never before seen on this earth. This surely is the Church as it was meant to be. These people did not make ‘acts of faith,’ they believed, they did not ‘say their prayers,’ they really prayed. They did not hold conferences on psychosomatic medicine, they simply healed the sick. But if they were uncomplicated and naive by modern standards we have ruefully to admit that they were open on the God-ward side in a way that is almost unknown today.” - J.B. Phillips Acts 9:15 2 Corinthians 11:24-28 Hebrews 11:35-38 Hebrews 12:1-2 Luke 8:14 Matthew 10:37-39 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Key Scripture: Acts 27 Life is full of storms. We sail along with clear and sunny skies until the wind suddenly changes and we find ourselves holding on for dear life. When seasons of hardship come, how do we keep our lives from falling apart? How can we hear and trust God’s voice in the midst of trial and difficulty? Even when we can’t understand, His promises and purpose never fail. While storms aren’t optional, shipwreck is. Scripture References and Quotes: John 16:33 Matthew 7:24-27 1 Peter 3:17 Matthew 7:13-14 Hebrews 6:17-18 James 1:2 Philippians 1:21

Key Scripture: Acts 21:1-14 We all want to make sense of suffering. When things get hard, we want to know why. Why would God allow something so horrible to happen to me? There's a common fatal flaw in our thinking that God would never want us to suffer, yet Paul's life and words indicate He isn't nearly as concerned with our comfort as we think He should be. God's priorities are His glory and our maturity, and suffering often brings these things about. Are you going through a trial today? Trust His will for your life! Scripture References and Quotes: Luke 22:42 Philippians 2:5-8 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 Romans 8:18 Philippians 3:10 “If you seek God as the nonnegotiable good of your life, you will get happiness thrown in. If, however, you aim mainly at personal happiness, you will get neither.” ― Timothy Keller

Key Scripture: Acts 20:17-38 The need for Christ-like leaders in the Church has never been greater. Too many of us come to church, we listen and learn, but we don't grow. We need leaders of character who are willing to live as an example of what it means to follow Jesus every day. We tend to celebrate spiritual gifts and spectacular exploits more than simple acts of service and obedience, yet Jesus told us that we’ll know them by their fruits not by their gifts. Leadership in its simplest form is influence, and each of us has influence in the lives of others. Who are you leading? Are you leading well? Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 23:3 2 Corinthians 5:20 1 Corinthians 11:1 Matthew 7:15-23 Galatians 5:22-23 Hebrews 1:3 “Do you not know that there comes a midnight hour when every one has to throw off his mask? Do you think you can slip away a little before midnight in order to avoid this? Or are you not terrified by it?” - Soren Kierkegaard "People will always hit the ceiling that their character makeup dictates. Who a person is will ultimately determine if their brains, talents, competencies, energy, effort, and abilities will succeed.” - Dr. Henry Cloud

Key Scripture: Acts 19:21-27 We’ve done away with the statues, but idols remain a significant part of our lives. We devote ourselves to people and things, seeking from them what only God can give. Money is one idol that remains firmly entrenched in our society, as well as our hearts. Greed and covetousness are the new normal in a country that celebrates success and riches. Yet, Jesus warned us more about the dangers of riches than the dangers of lust, pride or anger. Could it be that greed is a bigger problem in our hearts than we might realize? Scripture References and Quotes: 1 Corinthians 8:4-6 Exodus 20:4 Colossians 3:5 Matthew 6:24 Luke 12:15 Colossians 3:1-4 Matthew 6:19-20 2 Corinthians 8:8-9 "Anything can be an idol, and everything has been an idol…An idol is anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give." - Tim Keller

Key Scripture: Acts 19:11-20 We all face problems that make us feel powerless: financial hardship, physical struggles, family issues, fear, and an uncertain future. So many things in life seem beyond our control. We are also spiritual beings who fight against a spiritual enemy who daily wreaks havoc in our lives. While we should be aware, we have nothing to fear. Jesus has given us His authority over every evil in this world. This authority doesn’t come from religiousness or spirituality, but from an intimate relationship with Him. Stop living as a victim. There’s victory in His Name! Scripture References and Quotes: Ephesians 6:10-12 Philippians 2:9-11 Luke 4:36 2 Peter 2:19 1 Corinthians 15:57

Key Scripture: Ephesians 5:22-33 God has a plan for your family that is anything but typical and far better than anything you can design yourself. While every person's circumstance is unique, His Word provides us with answers to every question and strength for every situation. No matter what you're going through or what challenges you're facing, you and your family don't need to settle for typical!

Key Scripture: Colossians 3:11-17 According to research, 40% of families in the U.S. are blended families, and more than 60% of them will ultimately fail. While the stepfamily isn’t God's original design, it can still become a family according to God’s design. Just like most blended families, the early Church was made up of very different people who had very different behaviors and backgrounds. These differences created conflict and tensions that were difficult to overcome. Still, God called His children to come together as one spiritual family. Even today, the Church serves as conclusive proof that every family can experience health, healing and wholeness in Christ. Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 19:3-9 Psalm 32:1-2, 5 Colossians 3:11-17 Matthew 1:16

Key Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-4 Typically, the parent - child relationship can be one of the most challenging we have, yet it is also one of the most rewarding. We read in the Psalms “Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them!” Yet so often it can feel more like a curse. So what do we need to do to experience the blessings of this relationship? God’s Atypical plan instructs us how! Scripture References and Quotes: Proverbs 22:6 Psalm 127:3-5 Deuteronomy 6:2 Deuteronomy 6:6-7 “Being a parent is dirty and scary and beautiful and hard and miraculous and exhausting and thankless and joyful and frustrating all at once.” - Jill Smokler

Key Scripture: Ephesians 5:21-33 The typical marriage is a daily tug-of-war between two people trying to get their needs met. At first, attraction and infatuation cloak the selfishness in our hearts. Inevitably, however, unmet expectations pile up and the avalanche of disappointment crushes any hope of a “happily ever after.” God designed marriage to expose and uproot the selfishness that is destructive to our lives and relationships. He gives us marriage roles and responsibilities that point to His example of self-sacrificial Love. Do you want a better marriage? It’s time to follow His atypical example. Scripture References and Quotes: 1 Philippians 2:5-8 2 Matthew 20:25-28 3 2 Corinthians 5:15 4 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Key Scripture: Genesis 2:22-24 In today's world there are endless sources of advice and tips for the dating scene. Some of the advice may be good, but it’s typically geared toward finding “the right one,” and based on a worldly, cultural philosophy. All of it falls woefully short when compared to God's Word, and when God’s Word is used to build a foundation, it produces relationships that endure for the long haul. Scripture References and Quotes: Proverbs 16:25 2 Corinthians 6:14-18

Key Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-20 We all want more than the typical family. We want an extraordinary family that's marked by unconditional love, respect and fighting for each other. So, why do we end up with the same old family that's marred by unmet expectations, regret and fighting with each other? God has a different plan for your life and for your family, and His plan is anything but typical. Just as He is holy, He has made us holy in Christ. He wants to make your family an exception, so that He can make it exceptional. Do you know what He wants to change today? Scripture References and Quotes: “Modern Christians hope to save the world by being like it, but it will never work. The Church's power over the world springs out of her unlikeness to it, never from her integration into it." - A.W. Tozer Corinthians 6:17 John 17:15-17 Revelation 4:8 1 Peter 1:15-16

Key Scripture: Acts 17:1-34 Like it or not, we all have to make decisions. Do you ever wish you could find a way to always make the right one? Life is composed of a series of decisions, which is why it’s so important to have a plan for making wise choices. This is something many people never consider, yet the Bible isn’t a story book but a guide. If we follow a plan based on God’s Word, we’ll make decisions wisely and avoid the difficulties and heartaches that come from wrong choices. Scripture References and Quotes: Joshua 24:15 2 Corinthians 9:7 Psalm 25:12 Psalm 119:105 Proverbs 3:5-6 2 Timothy 3:16-17 1 Thessalonians 2:13 Joshua 1:8 Matthew 4:4 2 Timothy 2:15

Key Scripture: Acts 16:25-34 Life isn’t fair. This world can beat us up and hold us captive. Our natural tendency when we go through trials is to focus more on ourselves, but peace comes from fixing our eyes on Christ. Peace comes when we worship. Peace comes when we're no longer trying to escape our trouble, but finally discover the true freedom that only God can bring. Scripture References and Quotes: Hebrews 12:26-29 2 Corinthians 3:17 James 1:2 Psalm 23:4 1 Peter 1:6-7

Key Scripture: Acts 15 It’s easy to lose sight of what’s most important. We tend to make minor issues major and miss the major issues entirely. We get caught up in our rights as Christians and concerned with everything others are doing wrong. What’s most important to Jesus? The unity of His Church. As we face disagreements and potentially divisive issues with other believers, we must do everything possible to avoid both legalism and lawlessness and to pursue love. Don’t judge, don’t stumble, and do all for the glory of God. Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 23:24 1 Corinthians 9:12 Romans 14:13-19 John 17:22-23

Key Scripture: Acts 14:1-28 As followers of Jesus, we are all called to share the good news of the gospel. However, it is not always easy and isn’t always well-received. During those times, we can get discouraged and want to quit. God’s Word reminds us that we’re not alone in our discouragement. Even though the apostles and early Church believers accomplished incredible things for Christ, they were very much human and experienced many of the same frustrations we do. But when faced with trouble they continued to share the gospel and live the life God called them to. Scripture References and Quotes: Matthew 28:18-20 Acts 1:8 Luke 9:62 Galatians 6:9 2 Corinthians 11:25 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 “Our greatest fear should not be of failure but of succeeding at things in life that don’t really matter.” – Francis Chan Matthew 6:33 Luke 9:23 Luke 14:27-28 “God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile.” – Max Lucado

Key Scripture: Acts 13 The only life without limits is the one God has called you to live. His calling will never be first and foremost about you and will always serve to accomplish His purpose of redeeming the world to Himself. As you live out this calling, you’ll run into conflict from those who oppose the gospel and try to dilute Truth with disobedience. But this conflict can clarify God’s calling on your life. He uses opposition to give us direction. Do you know the life He’s called you to? Are you living it?   Scripture References and Quotes: Acts 9:15-16 Romans 8:28 Matthew 3:3-8 Luke 10:21 1 Corinthians 2:4-20 2 Timothy 3:5

Key Scripture: Acts 12:1-19 Do You Feel Like A Prisoner? It’s Easy To Live As A Captive To Sin And Addiction, Stuck In A Jail Of Bitterness, Anxiety And Fear. But Jesus Came To Set Us Free. He Can Break Every Chain And Open Every Iron Gate That Keeps Us From Moving Forward In Our Faith. He Wants To Wake Us Up To The Reality Of Life With Him – A Life Of Liberty And Joy. What Is Holding You Back Today? It’s Time To Walk In The Miraculous Freedom You Have In Christ. Scripture References And Quotes: Ephesians 6:10-12 Romans 8:20-21 2 Peter 2:19 Luke 4:18 Galatians 1:3-4

Key Scripture: Acts 10:1-48 The truth of the matter is that we are not as impartial as we would like to believe. We all have our preferences. We have comfort zones when it comes to interacting with others, and are less likely to connect with those outside our circle than with those who are like us. It is easier to talk to an old friend than to make a new one. Additionally, our culture celebrates beauty, wealth and athletic skills, fawning over the successful and ignoring the rest. Playing favorites is part of life. But it is not what God intends for us. Favoritism may be part of our culture, but it is must not be part of the church. Scripture References and Quotes: Acts 10:1-48, Acts 1:8, Luke 2:10, Mark 11:17, Titus 2:11, James 2:8-9, Romans 3:22-24 When we show favoritism, when we assess people by externals, we are usurping God’s exclusive right to stand in judgment over others. You’re taking the place of God. - Jeff Purswell

Key Scripture: Acts 9:1-31  The Apostle Paul’s story reminds us that Jesus can change anyone. His redemptive power is unstoppable. There isn’t a wall of pride He can’t break through nor a heart hardened by sin He can’t soften. We must not write off those He wants to write in to His story of redemption. This includes you. Who you are isn’t determined by what you’ve done; it’s determined by what God has said about you and what He’s done for you. He has a plan for you. He has a call on your life. Do you know who you are in Christ? Do you believe who He is in you? Scripture References: Acts 7:58, Acts 8:1, 3, 1 Timothy 1:15-16, Acts 26:13-15, 1 Corinthians 1:30, Philippians 3:4-6

Key Scripture: Acts 8:1-40 Have you ever been so excited about something, that you’ve taken it a little too far? When we’re passionate about something, it’s easy to get carried away. Our faith in Christ should carry us away to places we’ve never been. It should carry us to do things we’ve never done: approaching the unapproachable, loving the unlovable, forgiving the intolerable, attempting the impossible. Unfortunately, it’s easy to just get carried away and caught up in the excitement of Christianity, but not in Christ Himself. Where is He wanting to take you today? Scripture References: Luke 8:4-13, Matthew 8:18-22, John 6:53-54, Luke 14:34-35, Mark 13:13, Philippians 3:8

Key Scripture: Acts 6:8-7:60 Faith is more than words. We say we believe in Jesus, yet so often we fail to exercise our faith and do the things he has called us to. It’s like buying fitness equipment we believe will help us get healthy, then using it primarily as a coat rack. Any worthwhile training achieves results only by exploring the limits of capacity. We do not discover untapped potential until we’re pushed outside of our comfort zones. In the same way, building our faith is not always comfortable but is always beneficial. In fact, it’s necessary. The Holy Spirit is the perfect Trainer in our faith. He knows our personal limits and gives us His strength to get past them. What challenge are you facing today? Exercise your faith! Scripture References: Matthew 8:26, Matthew 17:20, 1 John 5:4, 1 Timothy 4:7-8, 2 Peter 1:5, 2 Timothy 4:7

Key Scripture: Acts 6:1-7 Every church has problems. In fact, the more people a local church has, the more problems it will face. It’s easy to feel overlooked, neglected, like you don’t matter. How we respond to hurt and disappointment is very important. We must be eager to give grace and careful not to tear the church apart with gossip. How the church responds to problems is equally important. Church leaders must willingly entrust ministry to the people of God and equip them to love others well. Most importantly, the problems a church faces must never distract it from what matters most. The health of any church will always be measured by its devotion to prayer and God’s Word. Scripture References: Acts 6:1-7, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17, Ephesians 4:11-12, Luke 10:38-42, James 2:15-17

Key Scripture: Acts 5:12-42 A Life Without Limits Is A Life You Can’t Control. The Power Of The Holy Spirit Isn’t Safe And Cannot Be Contained Within The Confines Of Our Comfort And Convenience. He Leads Us Into Situations That Are Risky And Difficult, Calling Us To Go Where We Don’t Want To Go And To Give Up What We Want To Hold Onto. But It’s Only When We Surrender Control Of Our Lives To The All-Consuming Fire Of God That We Discover True Freedom. What Are You Still Trying To Control Today? Scripture References: Acts 5:12-42, 1 Peter 3:15, Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 12:28-29, 1 Kings 18:36-39, Luke 14:25-33

Key Scripture: Acts 4:32-5:11 The early church set an incredible example for the church today. They were united, sacrificial, loving, and truly spirit filled, demonstrated as they met the needs of all who were in their midst. They gave with no expectation of reward or recognition. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case with us. We tend to have hearts consumed with our own interests as opposed to the interest of others. We may give of our time, talents, or resources, but are we trying to get something in return? Do we give…with strings attached? Scripture References: Philippians 2:3, 1 Samuel 16:7, Romans 12:1

Key Scripture: Acts 4:1-31 Sharing the message of Jesus is something we’re all called to do. For many, however, doing so can be intimidating and we feel inadequate to share or unable to share effectively. At these times, we must be bold in our faith. The word boldness means "to pour forth all” - like pouring water out of a cup until it’s completely empty. It's having a conviction that runs so deep that it can’t be held back in one’s character or communication. True boldness captures the attention of others and compels them to listen. It combines personal conviction with divine revelation and inspiration. Christian boldness isn’t brash or arrogant, but it makes no apologies. It’s attractive, clear and confident because it’s rooted in the love, forgiveness and victory we have in Christ. Scripture References: Acts 1:8, Mark 16:15, Ephesians 6:18-20, 2 Timothy 1:7-8, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Proverbs 28:1, Philippians 4:13

Key Scripture: Acts 3:1-26 Don’t you hate it when plans change? If you want to follow Jesus, you’d better get used to it. The plans He has for us aren’t the plans we’d make for ourselves; they are immeasurably better! When we’re crippled by sin and the suffering life can bring, it’s easy to lose hope. In those moments, we must remember that the greatest blessing we can receive is Jesus Himself. At times, a miracle is what God uses to bring us closer to Him. At other times, He uses trial and hardship. He won’t hesitate to undo the dreams we have for ourselves if it means we’ll finally surrender to the infinitely better dream He has for us. Scripture References: Matthew 16:24, Isaiah 55:8-9, Proverbs 13:12, Romans 8:28

Key Scripture: Acts 2:42-47 Do you ever get distracted? In a world with so many options, it’s difficult to be truly devoted to anything. Church is no exception. There are so many different kinds of churches to choose from and each of these churches has so many different activities to occupy our time and attention. While these things are meant to engage us in spiritual growth, they can actually distract us from a simple devotion to Christ. The early Church gives us a clear example of Christian community engaged in God’s Word, fellowship, communion and prayer. To recapture the limitless influence of the early Church, we must recapture their simple devotion to the things that matter most. Scripture References: John 17:20-21, Hebrews 5:12-14, Ephesians 4:11-12, James 5:16, Luke 22:31-32

Key Scripture: Acts 2:1-41 When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, He changed everything. When He comes into your life, He changes everything in you. So many things in life serve as constant reminders of our faults, fears and failures. It seems we’re always coming up short and we’ll never be good enough. In fact, we’re NOT stronger than we think…BUT He is stronger than we’re weak. He takes our greatest weaknesses and uses them to put His power and glory on full display. Do you believe His promise? His power is made perfect in your weakness! Scripture References: Joel 2:28, Psalm 51:11, Galatians 3:13-14, Matthew 16:17-18, 1 Corinthians 2:3-5, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10