Pacific Coast Church

Back To Basics // Week 8 // Forgiveness Pastors JF and Ashley Wilkerson Matthew 18:6-9 NIV 6 “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. 7 Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must come, but woe to the person through whom they come! 8 If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire. 9 And if your eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell.” Matthew 18:15 NIV 15 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” Matthew 18:16-20 NIV 16 “But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:21 NIV 21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Aphiēmi – “To send away, release, let go” 1. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T FORGETTING…IT'S RELEASING. Colossians 3:12-13 NIV 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 1. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T FORGETTING…IT'S RELEASING. 2. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T IMMEDIATE…IT HAS TO BE REPEATED. Matthew 18:21-22 NIV 22 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” 1. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T FORGETTING…IT'S RELEASING. 2. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T IMMEDIATE…IT HAS TO BE REPEATED. 3. FORGIVENESS ISN'T FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS…IT'S FOR US. Matthew 18:28-30 NIV 28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded. 29 His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.' 30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.” Matthew 18:31-35 NIV 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened. 32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,' he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. 35 This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” Matthew 18:34b NIV 34b…his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. Matthew 18:35 NIV 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” “Unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” - Nelson Mandela Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. 1. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T FORGETTING…IT'S RELEASING. 2. FORGIVING OTHERS ISN'T IMMEDIATE…IT HAS TO BE REPEATED. 3. FORGIVENESS ISN'T FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS…IT'S FOR US

Back To Basics // Week 7 // PrayerPastors JF and Ashley Wilkerson1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?Matthew 6:5 NIV5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”Matthew 6:6 NIV6 “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?Matthew 6:7-8 NIV7 “And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”Biblical Examples of Logos:In the beginning was the Word [logos], and the Word [logos] was with God, and the Word [logos] was God” (John 1:1 NIV).Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the Word [logos] of truth. (II Timothy 2:15 NIV).Biblical Examples of Rhema:Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word [rhema] about Christ. (Romans 10:17 NIV)Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word [rhema]. (Ephesians 5:25-26 NIV)If you remain in me and my words [rhema] remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7 NIV)Matthew 6:9-15 NIV9 “This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'” 14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?3. Am I focused on WHAT THEY DID or WHAT HE HAS DONE?Mark 11:24-26 NASB24 Therefore, I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you. 25 Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father who is in heaven will also forgive you your transgressions. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your transgressions.”1. Am I focused on the REWARD...Or the RELATIONSHIP?2. Am I focused on the LIST...Or the LISTENING?3. Am I focused on WHAT THEY DID or WHAT HE HAS DONE?

Back To Basics // Week 6 // StewardshipPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonStewardship: the responsible management of something entrusted to one's careLuke 19:12-13 NIV12 He said: “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. ‘Put this money to work,' he said, ‘until I come back.'“1. Culture says it's all for you.Scripture says it's all God's, but available to you.Psalm 24:1 NIV1 The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in itDeuteronomy 8:17-18 NIV17 You may say to yourself, “My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me.” 18 But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.Luke 19:12-13 NIV12 He said: “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to have himself appointed king and then to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants and gave them ten minas. ‘Put this money to work,' he said, ‘until I come back.'“1. Culture says it's all for you.Scripture says it's all God's, but available to you.2. Culture says to focus on your RIGHTS.Scripture says focus on your RESPONSIBILITIES.Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.1. Culture says it's all for you.Scripture says it's all God's, but available to you.2. Culture says to focus on your RIGHTS.Scripture says focus on your RESPONSIBILITIES.3. Culture says look out for number one.Scripture says use what you are given to reach the one.Luke 19:15b-19 NIV15b Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 “The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.' 17 “‘Well done, my good servant!' his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.' 18 “The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.' 19 “His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.'Luke 19:20 NIV20 “Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth.Luke 19:23-26 NIV23 “Why then didn't you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?' 24 “Then he said to those standing by, ‘Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.' 25 “‘Sir,' they said, ‘he already has ten!' 26 “He replied, ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away.1. Culture says it's all for you.Scripture says it's God's but available to you.2. Culture says to focus on your RIGHTS.Scripture says focus on your RESPONSIBILITIES.3. Culture says look out for number one.Scripture says use what you are given to reach the one.

Back To Basics // Week 5 // The Holy SpiritPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonEphesians 4:1-3 NIV 1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.Ephesians 4:4-6 NIV 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.1. Gifts of the SpiritEphesians 4:7-8;11-13 NIV 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people…11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.1 Corinthians 12:1; 4-11 NIV 1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed…4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines.1 Corinthians 14:1a NIV 1a Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit…1 Timothy 4:14a & 15 ESV 14a Do not neglect the gift you have...15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.1. Gifts of the Spirit2. Growth in the SpiritEphesians 4:14-16 NIV 14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.“Truth and Love” Chart1. Gifts of the Spirit2. Growth in the Spirit3. Grieving the SpiritEphesians 4:17-21 NIV 17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. 20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.Ephesians 4:25-32 NIV 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.1. Gifts of the Spirit2. Growth in the Spirit3. Grieving the Spirit

Poured Out // Week 1 // Who Is The Holy Spirit?1. Spirit of TruthJohn 14:17; 15:26 NIV17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.26 “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.2. The Holy SpiritEphesians 1:13b-14 NLTAnd when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. 14 The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.HE IS HOLY.Holy:  “set apart...sanctified...sacred...consecrated… or dedicated completely”Ephesians 4:30 NLT30 And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.Romans 8:1-4 NIVTherefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.3. The Spirit of GodGenesis 1:2 & 26a NIV2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likenessJob 33:4 NIVThe Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.Romans 8:14 NIV14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

Back To Basics // Week 3 // How to Study God's WordPastors JF and Ashley Wilkerson1. Scripture was Written FOR us… not TO us.Psalm 119:105 NIV Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.John 8:31-32 NASB31 So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”1. Scripture was Written FOR us… not TO us.2. Some Scripture is PRESCRIPTIVE and Some is DESCRIPTIVE.Ephesians 6:17 NIV Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.1. Scripture was Written FOR us… not TO us.2. Some Scripture is PRESCRIPTIVE and Some is DESCRIPTIVE.3. The CONTEXT of Scripture Always MATTERS.Jeremiah 29:11 NIV 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Philippians 4:13 NIV 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.Revelation 3:20 NIV 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock…1 Corinthians 13:12 NASB 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully, just as I also have been fully known.Proverbs 1:7 NASB The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge…2 Timothy 2:14-17a NIV 14 Keep reminding God's people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen. 15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 16 Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. 17 Their teaching will spread like gangrene.1. Scripture was Written FOR us… not TO us.2. Some Scripture is PRESCRIPTIVE and Some is DESCRIPTIVE.3. The CONTEXT of Scripture Always MATTERS.

Back To Basics // Week 2 // The ChurchPastor JF Wilkerson1 Corinthians 12:12-14; 27 NIV 12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many…27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.1. The BodyRomans 12:4-5 NIV 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all 1. The Body2. The BuildingEphesians 2:18-22 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. 19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.1 Peter 2:1-5 NIV Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, 3 now that you have tasted that the Lord is good. 4 As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.Ephesians 4:25; 29-32 NIV 25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body…29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.1. The Body2. The Building 3. The BrideEphesians 5:25-27 NIV 25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. James 1:19-20;22;26 NIV 19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires…22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says…26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.1. The Body 2. The Building 3. The Bride

Back To Basics // Week 1 // What Really Is Faith?Pastor JF Wilkerson1. Does My Faith Have Action?James 2:14 NIV 14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?James 2:15-19 NIV 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.James 2:24;26 NIV 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone…26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.Matthew 7:21-23 NIV 21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' 23 Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'1. Does My Faith Have Action?2. Does My Faith Endure?James 1:2-4 NIV 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.James 1:12 NIV 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.James 5:7-8 NIV 7 Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.Matthew 24:10-13 NIV 10 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13 but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.1. Does My Faith Have Action?2. Does My Faith Endure?3. Does My Faith Ask?James 5:13-16 NIV 13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.James 5:17-18 NIV 17 Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.1. Does My Faith Have Action?2. Does My Faith Endure?3. Does My Faith Ask?

Get In The WheelbarrowPastor JF WilkersonMatthew 28:16-20 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Luke 14:25–33 NIV 25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn't able to finish.' 31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won't he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.1. We must hate our families and ourselves2. We must carry our own crossLuke 9:23 NIV 23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.3. We must give up all our possessionsLuke 14:33 NIV 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.Luke 18:22–25 NIV 22 When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 23 When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy. 24 Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God! 25 Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”1. We must hate our families and ourselves2. We must carry our own cross3. We must give up all our possessions

Easter // The Resurrected LifePastor JF and Ashley Wilkerson1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade.2 Corinthians 5:15-17 NIV 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 16 So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!1. Resurrection Life Doesn't Always Look like Our Plans.Mark 14:50 NIV 50 Then everyone deserted him and fled.Matthew 20:25-28 NIV 25 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Resurrection Life Doesn't Always Look Like Our Plans.Resurrection Life Doesn't Look For The Living Among The Dead.Luke 24:1-6 NIV 1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen!1. Resurrection Life Doesn't Always Look Like Our Plans.2. Resurrection Life Doesn't  Look For The Living Among The Dead.3. Resurrection Life Uses Our Scars.John 20:24-28 NASB 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, who was called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples were saying to him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.” 26 Eight days later His disciples were again inside, and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, the doors having been shut, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be to you.” 27 Then He said to Thomas, “Place your finger here, and see My hands; and take your hand and put it into My side; and do not continue in disbelief, but be a believer.” 28 Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”1. Resurrection Life Doesn't Always Look Like Our Plans.2. Resurrection Life Doesn't  Look For The Living Among The Dead.3. Resurrection Life Uses Our Scars.

Palm Sunday // What It Means For UsPastor JF WilkersonLuke 19:28-37 NIV 28 After Jesus had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 As he approached Bethphage and Bethany at the hill called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, 30 “Go to the village ahead of you, and as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?' say, ‘The Lord needs it.'” 32 Those who were sent ahead went and found it just as he had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, “Why are you untying the colt?” 34 They replied, “The Lord needs it.” 35 They brought it to Jesus, threw their cloaks on the colt and put Jesus on it. 36 As he went along, people spread their cloaks on the road. 37 When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen1. Will you risk and rejoice for Jesus?Matthew 21:9 NIV 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Hosanna in the highest heaven!”Matthew 16:25 NLT 25 If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.1. Will you risk and rejoice for Jesus?2. Will you rest and remain in Jesus?Luke 19:41-44 NLT 41 But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep. 42 “How I wish today that you of all people would understand the way to peace. But now it is too late, and peace is hidden from your eyes. 43 Before long your enemies will build ramparts against your walls and encircle you and close in on you from every side. 44 They will crush you into the ground, and your children with you. Your enemies will not leave a single stone in place, because you did not recognize it when God visited you.”John 15:3-5 NIV 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.1. Will you risk and rejoice for Jesus?2. Will you rest and remain in Jesus?3. Will you receive and respond for Jesus?John 12:16–17 NIV 16 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him. 17 Now the crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word.

Who Is Jesus? // Week 6 // "Lazarus, Come Out!"Pastor JF WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.John 11:3-7 NIV 3 So the sisters sent word to Jesus, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” 4 When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.” 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days, 7 and then he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.”1. Consider His TimingJohn 11:4 NIV 4 When he heard this, Jesus said, “This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.”John 11:14-15 NIV 14 So then he told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, 15 and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.”John 11:17 NIV 17 On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.John 11:25-26 NIV 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”1. Consider His TIMING2. Consider His TEARSJohn 11:32b-35 32b “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 “Where have you laid him?” he asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept.1. Consider His TIMING2. Consider His TEARS3. Consider your TRUSTJohn 11:38-43 NIV 38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39 “Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. 42 I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 When he had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”John 3:16 NIV 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.John 11:25a NIV 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life… ‘1. Consider His TIMING2. Consider His TEARS3. Consider your TRUST

Who Is Jesus? // Week 5 // The Complete HealerPastor JF WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Mark 2:1-12 NIV 1 A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. 2 They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 “Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk'? 10 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, 11 “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!”1. UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PEOPLE AROUND YOUMark 2:3-4 NIV 3 Some men came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. 4 Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on.Mark 2:5 NIV 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”1. UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU.2. UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF THE CHANGE INSIDE OF YOUMark 2:5 NIV 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”1. UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU.2. UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF THE CHANGE INSIDE OF YOU3. UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF THE OPPOSITION IN FRONT OF YOUMark 2:5-12 NIV 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” 6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 “Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk'? 10 But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the man, 11 “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” 12 He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all.

Who Is Jesus? // Week 4 // Jesus Empowers WomenPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Galatians 3:26-28 NIV 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.Luke 6:12-16 NIV 12 One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. 13 When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles: 14 Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, 16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.Luke 10:1 NIV After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.Luke 8:1-3 NIV 1 After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.“Phoebe, the deacon who carried the letter from Paul and read it aloud to her house church. Prisca (Priscilla), whose name is mentioned before her husband's name (something rather notable in the Roman world) as a coworker with Paul. Mary, a hard worker for the gospel in Asia. Junia, prominent among the apostles. Tryphaena and Tryphosa, Paul's fellow workers in the Lord. The beloved Persis, who also worked hard for the Lord.”  Dr. Barr emphasizes that Junia was acknowledged as “prominent among the apostles,” indicating her significant role in early Christian leadership. She notes that more women than men are identified by their ministry in Romans 16.  - Dr. Beth Allison Barr in The Making of Biblical WomanhoodLuke 10:38-42 NIV 38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”John 4:4-10 NIV 4 Now he had to go through Samaria. 5 So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar (Shechem), near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6 Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. 7 When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” 8 (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) 9 The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”John 4:11-12a NIV 11 “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob…John 4:19; 24-26 NIV 19 “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet…” 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” 25 The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” 26 Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.”

Who Is Jesus? // Week 3 // What Breaks The Heart Of GodPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Matthew 21:10-13 NIV 10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” 11 The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.” 12 Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. 13 “It is written,” he said to them, “‘My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.'”What Angers and Breaks the Heart of God:1. ExploitationExploitation - the act of treating someone unfairly for your own benefit.Jeremiah 7:9-11 NIV 9 “‘Will you steal and murder, commit adultery and perjury, burn incense to Baal and follow other gods you have not known, 10 and then come and stand before me in this house, which bears my Name, and say, “We are safe”—safe to do all these detestable things? 11 Has this house, which bears my Name, become a den of robbers to you? But I have been watching! declares the Lord.Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV 8 Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.Psalm 82:3 NIV 3 Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.Proverbs 29:7 NIV 7 The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.Galatians 6:2 NIV 2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.James 4:17 NIV 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.Matthew 21:18-19 NIV 18 Early in the morning, as Jesus was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. 19 Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” Immediately the tree withered.What Angers and Breaks the Heart of God:1. Exploitation2. ExhibitionMatthew 23:1-7 NIVMatthew 23:13 NIV 13 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the door of the Kingdom of Heaven in people's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.Matthew 23:15 NIV 15 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when you have succeeded, you make them twice as much a child of hell as you are.Matthew 23:23-36 NIVMatthew 24:1-13 NIVWhat Angers and Breaks the Heart of God:1. Exploitation2. Exhibition3. IndifferenceIndifference - showing little or no concern.Matthew 23:23 NIV 23 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former.Matthew 21:20-22 NIV 20…“How did the fig tree wither so quickly?” they asked. 21 Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done. 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

Who Is Jesus? // Week 2 // How Jesus Navigated StormsPastor JF WilkersonHebrews 1:1-3a NIV  1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.Hebrews 1:3a NIV 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.John 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Mark 4:35-38 NIV35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.”  36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?”Matthew 8:26-27 NIV 26 He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. 27 The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!” Physical  Storms Emotional Storms Spiritual Storms Hebrews 6:17-19a NLT  17 God also bound himself with an oath, so that those who received the promise could be perfectly sure that he would never change his mind. 18 So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us. 19 This hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. Hebrews 6:19a NIV19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.1. Value God's Presence. Hebrews 13:5b-6 NIV5…be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”1. Value God's Presence.2. Value God's Promise. Mark 4:35 NIV35 That day when evening came, He said to His disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” Matthew 7:24-27 NIV24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”1. Value God's Presence.2. Value God's Promises. 3. Value God's Processes. Mark 4:36-39 NIV36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped.38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don't you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.Romans 5:2-4 NIV 2…and we boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we  also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope.1. Value God's Presence.2. Value God's Promises. 3. Value God's Processes.

Who Is Jesus? // Week 1 // How Jesus PrayedPastor JF WilkersonMatthew 26:36-38 NIV  36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. 38 Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”1) The WITHMatthew 18:19-20 NIV  19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”James 5:16 NIV  16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.1) The WITH2) The WATCHINGMatthew 26:36-39 NIV  36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” 37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.38 Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”Colossians 4:2 NIV  2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.Ephesians 1:16-19a NIV 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him,18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power toward us who believe…Matthew 26:40-41 NIV  40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn't you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. 41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”1) The WITH2) The WATCHING3) The WALKINGMatthew 26:42-44 NIV42 He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” 43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. 44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.Matthew 26:44-46 NIV44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. 45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”James 1:22 NLT22 But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says.The WITHThe WATCHINGThe WALKING

Identity // Week 5 // Back To The BeginningPastor JF Wilkerson2 Peter 3:8 NIV8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.Genesis 1:1 NASB1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.bara - To fashion something out of nothing.Genesis 1:3 NASB3 Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light.Our CommunicatingGenesis 1:26a NIV26a Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness.Proverbs 18:20-21 NIV20 From the fruit of their mouth a person's stomach is filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. 21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.Matthew 12:34b-35 NASB34b For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. 35 The good man brings out of his good treasure what is good; and the evil man brings out of his evil treasure what is evil.Our CommunicationOur CognitionGenesis 3:1-5 NIV1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden'?” 2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.'” 4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”Genesis 3:6-11 NIV6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves. 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. 9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?”2 Corinthians 10:5 NASB5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of ChristOur CommunicatingOur CognitionOur CoveringGenesis 3:6-7 NIV6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. 7 Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.Genesis 3:21 NASB21 The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife, and clothed them.Isaiah 61:10 NASB10 For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness…2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.Our CommunicatingOur CognitionOur Covering

Identity // Week 4 // Navigating Seasons: Floats and FlowersPastors JF and Ashley WilkersonEcclesiastes 3:1-13 NIV 1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: 2 a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, 3 a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, 4 a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, 5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, 6 a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, 7 a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, 8 a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. 9 What do workers gain from their toil? 10 I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. 12 I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. 13 That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.Floats FlowersGalatians 6:7-9 NIV 7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Isaiah 55:8-11 NIV  8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, 11 so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.Genesis 8:22 NIV 22 “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”

February 9, 2025Identity: Healthier RelationshipsPastor JF WilkersonMatthew 22:36-40 NIV36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 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 neighbor as yourself.' 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”1) What is STEWARDSHIP of SELF?Stewardshipnoun. the responsible overseeing and protection of something considered worth caring for and preserving.1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.Mark 12:28-31 NIV28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” 29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.”1) What is STEWARDSHIP of SELF?2) What is Healthy SHARING?Proverbs 4:23 NIV23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.Matthew 7:6 NIV6 “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.Ephesians 5:31 NIV31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”James 5:16 NIV16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.1) What is STEWARDSHIP of SELF?2) What is Healthy SHARING?3) What/Who Really is Your SOURCEJeremiah 17: 5-6a NIV5 This is what the Lord says: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. 6 That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes.Philippians 4:19 NIV19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Identity: Who and Why You Are1. Where did I come from?Genesis 1:26-27 NIV26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky,over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.1. Where did I come from?2.  Who am I? 1 Peter 2:7a, 8b-10 NIV7 But to those who do not believe,...8 they stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God1. Where did I come from?2. Who am I?3. Why am I here?Acts 1:6 NIV6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”Acts 1:7-8 NIV7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”1. Where did I come from?2. Who am I?3. Why am I here?4. Do I choose to accept? 

Identity: Our Calling As The ChurchPastors JF and Ashley Wilkerson2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14a NIV 14 If my people, who are called by my name,2 Chronicles 7:14a CJB14 If my people, who bear my name…James 1:22-24 NLT 22 But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. 23 For if you listen to the word and don't obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves …As the Church…1. We are to HUMBLE OURSELVES.Proverbs 11:1-2 NLT1 The Lord detests the use of dishonest scales, but he delights in accurate weights. 2 Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.Humility n. a modest or low view of one's own importance.Humility isn't thinking less OF yourself; it's thinking less ABOUT yourself.2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves …Philippians 2:3-4 NIV 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.Galatians 6:2 NIV2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3 Areas The Enemy Uses To Keep Us From Humbling Ourselves:Denial - When we deny that humility is our calling.Deflection - When we want to talk about anything else but   what requires us to be humble.Discomfort - When it doesn't feel good to humble ourselves.1 Corinthians 12:12-14;24-26 NIV12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. 24 But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.Lament - n. a passionate expression of grief or sorrow. 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face…As the Church…1. We are to HUMBLE OURSELVES.2. We are to PRAY while SEEKING HIS FACE.John 4:3-4 NIV3 So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. 4 Now he had to go through Samaria. Matthew 12:18 NIV18 “Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.Matthew 12:21 NIV21 In his name the nations will put their hope.2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV 14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. As the Church…1. We are to HUMBLE OURSELVES.2. We are to PRAY while SEEKING HIS FACE.3. We are to TURN FROM WICKED WAYS.Ephesians 5:6-11 NIV 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Pray FirstJanuary 19, 2025Pastor JF WilkersonActs 13:2-3 NIV2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.1 Thessalonians 5:17 NLT 17 Never stop praying.“I never pray more than 20 minutes. But I never go more than 20 minutes without praying.” - Smith WigglesworthJohn 15:4-5 NIV 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.1.  The Priority of PrayerDaniel 6:10 NIV10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.2. The Place of PrayerMark 1:35 NIV35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.3. The Plan of PrayerLuke 11:1-2a NLT1 Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” 2 Jesus said, “This is how you should pray…”4. The Persons of Prayer2 Corinthians 13:14 MSG14 The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.The amazing grace of Jesus.The extravagant love of the Father.Psalm 103:8-13 NIV 8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. 9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; 10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. 11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; 12 as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;The intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit.John 14:16-17a NIV16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever–17 the Spirit of truth. 

More Effective PrayersJanuary 12, 2025Pastors JF & Ashley WilkersonJames 5:16-18 NIV 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.1. Elijah Knew That God Is Listening.1 John 5:14-15 NIV14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.1 Kings 17:22a NASB22 The Lord listened to the voice of Elijah...1. Elijah Knew That God Is Listening. 2. Elijah Understood Others Are Listening.Ephesians 3:8-11 NIV 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.1 Kings 18:39 NIV39 When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!” 1 Kings 18:41 NIV41 And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of a heavy rain.”1. Elijah Knew That God Is Listening. 2. Elijah Understood Others Are Listening.3. Elijah's Listening Directed His Prayers.1 Kings 18:42-43 NIV 42 So Ahab went off to eat and drink, but Elijah climbed to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground and put his face between his knees. 43 “Go and look toward the sea,” he told his servant. And he went up and looked. “There is nothing there,” he said. Seven times Elijah said, “Go back.” 1 Kings 18:44-45a NIV44 The seventh time the servant reported, “A cloud as small as a man's hand is rising from the sea.” So Elijah said, “Go and tell Ahab, ‘Hitch up your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.'” 45 Meanwhile, the sky grew black with clouds, the wind rose, a heavy rain started falling ….1 Kings 18:45b-46 NIVAhab rode off to Jezreel. 46 The power of the Lord came on Elijah and, tucking his cloak into his belt, he ran ahead of Ahab all the way to Jezreel.Isaiah 40:30-31 NIV30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary…1. Elijah Knew That God Is Listening.2. Elijah Understood Others Are Listening.3. Elijah's Listening Directed His Prayers.

Hungering for GodJanuary 5, 2025Pastor Ken Ecker 1. Hungering for God involves fasting from the pleasures of life. 1 Timothy 4:1-3 NIV1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. 3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth.Acts 14:21-23 NIV21 They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, 22 strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. 23 Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.Daniel 9:3 NIV3 So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting, and in sackcloth and ashes.Isaiah 58:6-9a 6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? 8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.” 1.  Hungering for God involves fasting from the pleasures of life.2.  Hungering for God involves feasting on the presence of God. Psalm 81:10 10 I am the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and I will fill it. Matthew 6:16-18 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Jeremiah 14:11-12 11 Then the Lord said to me, “Do not pray for the well-being of this people. 12 Although they fast, I will not listen to their cry; though they offer burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. Instead, I will destroy them with the sword, famine and plague.”1. Hungering for God involves fasting from the pleasures of life.2. Hungering for God involves feasting on the presence of God.3. Hungering for God involves fasting and prayer together.

Pacific Church Resolutions 2025December 29, 2024Pastor JF WilkersonResolution - n. (Oxford English Dictionary)1. A firm decision to do or not to do something.2. The quality of being determined and unwavering (resolute).3. The action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter.Peter 5:8 NIVBe alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.Philippians 3:10-14 NIV10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.3 Resolutions for Pacific Church in 2025:1. We resolve to know the Lord better.Resolution - n. (oxford english dictionary) 1. A firm decision to do or not to do something.Matthew 7:1-5 NIV 1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.Philippians 3:10-11 NIV10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.3 Resolutions for Pacific Church in 2025:1. We resolve to know the Lord better.2. We resolve to stay on this Journey…and to do it together.Resolution - n. (oxford english dictionary) 2. The quality of being determined and unwavering (resolute).Philippians 3:12 NIV12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.3 Resolutions for Pacific Church in 2025:1. We resolve to know the Lord better.2. We resolve to stay on this Journey…and to do it together.3. We resolve to keep going back to the knowledge that Jesus has resolved it all.Resolution - n. (oxford english dictionary) 3. The action of solving a problem, dispute, or contentious matter.Philippians 3:13-14 NIV13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.1 John 1:9 NIV9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.Isaiah 43:25 NIV25 "I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.3 Resolutions for Pacific Church in 2025:1. We resolve to know the Lord better.2. We resolve to stay on this Journey…and to do it together.3. We resolve to keep going back to the knowledge that Jesus has resolved it all.

Christmas Eve ServiceDecember 24, 2024Pastors JF & Ashley WilkersonO Holy NightO holy night the stars are brightly shiningIt is the night of our dear Savior's birthLong lay the world in sin and error piningTill He appeared and the soul felt its worthHoly - adj. Dedicated or consecrated to God; devoted to the service of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness (HOLINESS) of God.Joy To The WorldJoy to the worldThe Lord has comeLet earth receive her KingLet every heartPrepare Him roomAnd Heaven and Nature singAnd Heaven and Nature singAnd Heaven and Nature singJohn 15:9;11 NIV9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. … 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”Silent NightSilent night, holy night!All is calm, all is brightRound yon Virgin, Mother and ChildHoly infant so tender and mildSleep in heavenly peaceSleep in heavenly peaceLuke 2:19 NIV19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Silent Night (Verse 3)Silent night, Holy night!Son of God, Love's Pure LightRadiant beams from Thy Holy FaceWith the dawn of Redeeming GraceJesus Lord at Thy birthJesus Lord at Thy birthMatthew 5:14 & 16 NIV14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ...16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Peace on Earth // Week 4 // Christmas in 3DDecember 22, 2024Pastors JF & Ashley WilkersonJohn 1:14 NIV 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.1. The DarknessIsaiah 9:2 NIV 2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:2-6a NIV 2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. 3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. 4 For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. 5 Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. 6 For to us a child is born… John 1:1-5 NIV1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.John 1:9-14 NIV9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. 14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. 1. The Darkness2. The DemonstrationJohn 14:6-9 NIV6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” 8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” 9 Jesus answered: “Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. Hebrews 1:1-3a NIV 1 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV6 For to us a child is born to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.1. The Darkness2. The Demonstration3. The DwellingJohn 1:14 NIV14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. Ephesians 3:16-17a NIV 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Colossians 1:25-27 NIV   25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— 26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord's people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.1. The Darkness2. The Demonstration3. The Dwelling

Peace on Earth  // Week 3 // Misconceptions of God With UsDecember 15, 2024Pastor Ashley WilkersonLuke 2:13-14 NIV13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14“Glory to God in the highest heaven,and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”Isaiah 7:14 NIV 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. (which means ‘God with us').1. Our PLANS - JosephMatthew 1:18-19 NIV18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.Romans 8:28 NIV28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Matthew 1:20-23 NIV20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”(which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:24-25 NIV24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.Proverbs 16:9 NASBThe mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.Luke 1:26-28 NIV26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 1. Our PLANS - Joseph2. Our PAIN - Mary3. Our Pursuit - The MagiMatthew 2:1-2 NASB1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying, 2 “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” Matthew 2:10-12 NIV10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.Psalm 119:105 NIV105 Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.1. Our PLANS - Joseph2. Our PAIN - Mary3. Our Pursuit - The Magi

Peace On Earth // Week 2 // Mary's Heart and SoulPastor JF WilkersonIsaiah 7:14 NIV14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 9:6 NIV6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.Luke 1:46-55 NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. 50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. 51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;  he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.53 He has filled the hungry with good things  but has sent the rich away empty.54 He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful55 to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.”Luke 1:46-47 NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,Our Soul = Our Mind / Our Will / Our EmotionsPhilippians 4:4-7 NIV4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Agalliaó: (Original Greek)  verb -  to exult, rejoice greatly; to be full of joy.John 15:9-11 NIV  9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commands and remain in his love. 11 I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. Luke 1:46-48a NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.1. GOD SEES YOULuke 1:46-48 NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 1.  GOD SEES YOU.2. GOD HAS BLESSINGS FOR YOU.Luke 1:46-50 NIV46 And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord 47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 48 for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, 49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name.50 His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.1.  GOD SEES YOU.2. GOD HAS BLESSINGS FOR YOU.3.  GOD HAS LOVING MERCY FOR YOUPsalm 23: 6a NLT Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me    all the days of my lifeShow Picture of “Aunt Marie"1.  GOD SEES YOU.2.  GOD HAS BLESSINGS FOR YOU.3.  GOD HAS LOVING MERCY FOR YOU.

Hope Has Come // Week 1 // The Calling of ChristmasDecember 1, 2024Pastors JF and Ashley WilkersonLuke 1:26-32 NIV26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Calling to Conceive - Believing and Birthingconceive - verb /kənˈsiv/1. To form an idea in your mind; to imagine something; to believe something. 2. To become pregnant. John 14:12 NIV12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. Luke 1:34-35 NIV34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you…”Luke 1:36-38 NIV36 Even Elizabeth, your relative, is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord's servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.1. The Calling to Conceive - Believing and Birthing2. The Calling to Connect - Revelation in RelationshipsLuke 1:26-27 NIV26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary.John 17:20-23 NIV20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.Luke 1:39-45 NIV39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”1. The Calling to Conceive - Believing and Birthing2. The Calling to Connect - Revelation in Relationships3. The Calling to Crucify - Dying to our DesiresGalatians 2:20 NIV20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 1. The Calling to Conceive - Believing and Birthing 2. The Calling to Connect - Revelation in Relationships 3.  The Calling to Crucify - Dying to our Desires

November 24, 2024Pastor Ashley Wilkerson1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.Matthew 6:19-23 NIV19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.Matthew 6:22-23 NIV22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.Mark 6:35-45 NIV35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it's already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.”37 But he answered, “You give them something to eat.”They said to him, “That would take more than half a year's wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”38 “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.”When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”39 Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. 41 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. 42 They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. 44 The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand.45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat…1. Am I seeing the season as Punishment or as Preparation?___1. Am I seeing the season as Punishment or as Preparation?2. Am I focused on His Faithfulness or My Fear?Mark 6:47-50a NIV47 Later that night, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified.1. Am I seeing the season as Punishment or as Preparation?2. Am I focused on His Faithfulness or My Fear?3. Am I Choosing to Remember the Loaves? Mark 6:50b-52 NIVImmediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.”51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.1. Am I seeing the season as Punishment or as Preparation?2. Am I focused on His Faithfulness or My Fear?3. Am I Choosing to Remember the Loaves?

In All Things // Week 3 // Near-Sightedness1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.Matthew 6:19-23 NIV19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.Acts 16:22-24 NIV  22 The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.1. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HIS POSSIBLE POSITIONING2. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HOW HE WILL POSSIBLY USE THE SITUATION FOR OTHERSActs 16:25-33 NIV  25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone's chains came loose. 27 The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don't harm yourself! We are all here!”29 The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. 1. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HIS POSSIBLE POSITIONING2. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HOW GOD MIGHT USE THE SITUATION FOR OTHERS3. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL SO THAT IT BECOMES YOUR AUTOMATIC RESPONSEPsalms 119:61-62 NIV61 Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law.62 At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws.Acts 16:16-18 NIV 16 Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling. 17 She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” 18 She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her.   1. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HIS POSSIBLE POSITIONING2. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL FOR HOW GOD MIGHT USE THE SITUATION FOR OTHERS3. MAKE A CHOICE TO BE GRATEFUL SO THAT IT BECOMES YOUR AUTOMATIC RESPONSE

Acts 2:46-47 (NIV)46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.1. We are stronger together1 Corinthians 12:18-20 (NIV)18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body.Matthew 18:19-20 (NIV)19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”Hebrews 10:23-25 (NIV)23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.1. We are stronger together2. The love of God binds us togetherColossians 3:11-14 (NIV)11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.1. We are stronger together2. The love of God binds us together3. Thank God for the local church leadershipEphesians 4:11-13 (NIV)11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.Ephesians 4:14-16 (NIV)14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

In All Things // Week 1 // Our Focus1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.Matthew 6:19-23a NIV19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23a But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.Luke 15:11-12 NIV11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.1. Focusing only on what you want Luke 15:17-19 NIV17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.' 1. Focusing only on what you want 2. Focusing on a false idea of GodLuke 15:20-21 NIV20 So he got up and went to his father. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. 21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.' Luke 15:22-24 NIV22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.Luke 15:25-28 NIV25 “Meanwhile, the older son was in the field. When he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he called one of the servants and asked him what was going on. 27 ‘Your brother has come,' he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.'28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. 1. Focusing only on what you want 2. Focusing on a false idea of God3. Focusing on what others haveLuke 15:29-32 NIV29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I've been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!'31 “‘My son,' the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'”1. Focusing only on what you want 2. Focusing on a false idea of God3. Focusing on what others have

What We Do // Week 6 // We Recognize His PresenceMatthew 28:16-19 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Matthew 28:19 NIV…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Hebrews 13:5-6;8 NIV 5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” 6 So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.  What can mere mortals do to me?” … 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.1. Carve Out Time Matthew 6:25-34 NIV 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.1. Carve Out Time  2. Choose Your StandingEphesians 6:10-14 NIV 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then…1. Carve Out Time2. Choose Your Standing3. Cultivate Your ListeningJohn 10:27-28 NIV 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. Psalm 23:4 NASB 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me;1. Carve Out Time2. Choose Your Standing3. Cultivate Your Listening

Matthew 28:16-20 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”The Written WordScripture was Written FOR us… not TO us.Psalm 119:105 NIV Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.John 8:31-32 NASB31 So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”The Written WordThe Spoken Word2 Corinthians 7:9a; 10-11 NIV  9...now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance...10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death. 11 See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done.Ephesians 6:17 NIV 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.The Written WordThe Spoken Word3. The Living WordJohn 1:14 NIV14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.Matthew 5:17 NIV  Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.Galatians 6:2 NIV2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.Matthew 22:36-40 NIV36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”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 neighbor as yourself.' 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

What We Do // Week 4 // We Baptize16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”1. The CisternExodus 30:17-21 NASB  17 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 18 “You shall also make a laver of bronze, with its base of bronze, for washing; and you shall put it between the tent of meeting and the altar, and you shall put water in it. 19 Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet from it; 20 when they enter the tent of meeting, they shall wash with water, so that they will not die; or when they approach the altar to minister, by offering up in smoke a fire sacrifice to the Lord. 21 So they shall wash their hands and their feet, so that they will not die; and it shall be a perpetual statute for them, for Aaron and his descendants throughout their generations.”1. The Cistern2. The ChangeGalatians 3:23-27 NIV 23 Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed. 24 So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.John 7:38 NASB 38 “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.'”1. The Cistern2. The Change3. The ChargeMatthew 28:18-20 NASB18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”Acts 2:38-39 NIV38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”1. The Cistern2. The Change3. The Charge

Matthew 28:16-19 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”THE BODYMatthew 28:19 NIV   Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,Ephesians 3:4-6 NIV 4 In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. 6 This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.THE BODYTHE BLESSINGGalatians 3:5-9 NIV 5 Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith— 6 just as Abraham “believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”? 7 Know then that it is those of faith who are the sons of Abraham. 8 And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” 9 So then, those who are of faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith.Galatians 3:26-29 NIV 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.THE BODYTHE BLESSINGTHE BEAUTYI Corinthians‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬-‭14‬ NIV Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.Romans 12:4-5;9-10;15-16 NIV4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another.

Matthew 28:16-20 NIV 16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Gathering in Groups (Small and Large)Acts 2:42-47 ESV42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.Colossians 3:15-16 NIV 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.1 Corinthians 14: 26 NIV  26 What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.Gathering in Groups (Small and Large)Going and Growing (Ourselves and Others)Giving Generously (To What the Lord Cares About)1 John 3:17-18 NIV  17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.James 1:26-27 NIV  26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.Matthew 25:34-40 NIV 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'2 Corinthians 9:6-13 NIV 6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9 As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” 10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12 This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

What We Do // Week 1 // We GoMatthew 28:16-20 NIV16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”John 14:11-12 NIV11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves. 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.Luke 10:26-29 NIV26 “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?”27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' ”28 “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”Luke 10:30-37 NIV30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,' he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”Luke 10:30-33 NIV30 In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.We are to GO with our eyes open to people.Luke 10:33-34 NIV33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him.We are to GO with our eyes open to people.We are to GO and meet people where they are.Luke 10:35-37 NIV35 The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,' he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' 36 “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”We are to GO with our eyes open to people.We are to GO and meet people where they are.We are to GO above and beyond without expectation of repayment.1 Timothy 6:17-19 NIV17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

How You Got HereExodus 15:26“For I am the Lord, who heals you”  Psalm 37:23The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him.

Love Your EnemiesMatthew 5:43-48 (NIV)43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”Enemy: A person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something.Persecute: to pursue with harmful intentions.Matthew 5:43-44 (NIV)43 “You have heard that it was said,‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”Leviticus 19:18 (NIV)18 “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”Matthew 5:43-44 (NIV)43 “You have heard that it was said,‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”Matthew 5:46-48 (NIV)46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.1) Shift your perspective of what Jesus asks of youLuke 6:27-31 (NLT) 27 “But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. 28 Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. 29 If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. 30 Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don't try to get them back. 31 Do to others as you would like them to do to you.”Romans 12:17-18 (NIV)17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 2) Shift your perspective from the temporary to the eternalMatthew 5:11-12 (NIV)11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way, they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”1 Peter 3:9 (NIV)9 Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 3) Shift your perspective on how its done!!Proverbs 16:6b-7 (NLT)6b By fearing the Lord, people avoid evil.  7 When people's lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them.

Why Sabbath?1. Sabbath Poses the Question of SIGNIFICANCE.Genesis 2:1-3 NIV 1 Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. 2 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.Exodus 20:1-5a, 7-17 NIV1 And God spoke all these words:2 (Command #1) “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 3 “You shall have no other gods before me.4 (Command #2)“You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them;7 (Command #3)“You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.8 (Command #4)“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.12 (Command #5)“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.13 (Command #6)“You shall not murder.14 (Command#7)“You shall not commit adultery.15 (Command #8)“You shall not steal.16 (Command #9)“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.17 (Command #10)“You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”1. Sabbath Poses the Question of SIGNIFICANCE.2. Sabbath Poses the Question of SOURCE.Exodus 16:21-26 NIV 21 Each morning everyone gathered as much as they needed, and when the sun grew hot, it melted away. 22 On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much—two omers for each person—and the leaders of the community came and reported this to Moses. 23 He said to them, “This is what the Lord commanded: ‘Tomorrow is to be a day of sabbath rest, a holy sabbath to the Lord. So bake what you want to bake and boil what you want to boil. Save whatever is left and keep it until morning.'” 24 So they saved it until morning, as Moses commanded, and it did not stink or get maggots in it. 25 “Eat it today,” Moses said, “because today is a sabbath to the Lord. You will not find any of it on the ground today. 26 Six days you are to gather it, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, there will not be any.”The quality of our rest is determined by the quantity of our trust.1. Sabbath Poses the Question of SIGNIFICANCE.2. Sabbath Poses the Question of SOURCE.3. Sabbath Poses the Question of SERVITUDE.Mark 2:27-28 NIV  27 Then he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”Isaiah 58:13-14a NIV 13 “If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord's holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, 14 then you will find your joy in the Lord

Poured Out // Week 7 // Living By The Holy SpiritEphesians 4:1-3 NIV1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.Ephesians 4:4-6 NIV4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.1. Gifts of the SpiritEphesians 4:7-8;11-13 NIV7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.1 Corinthians 12:1; 4-7; 11 ESV1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; 5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.  11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills.1 Corinthians 14:1a NIVFollow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit...1 Timothy 4:14a &15 ESV14 Do not neglect the gift you have, ... 15 Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.1. Gifts of the Spirit   2. Growth in the SpiritEphesians 4:14-16 NIV14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.1. Gifts of the Spirit2. Growth in the Spirit And Finally…3. Grieving the SpiritEphesians 4:17-21 NIV17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.  18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. 20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.Ephesians 4:22-24 NIV22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.Ephesians 4:25-32 NIV25 Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body. 26 “In your anger do not sin”: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 and do not give the devil a foothold. 28 Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. 29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.1. Gifts of the Spirit2. Growth in the Spirit3. Grieving the Spirit

Poured Out // Week 6 // Transformed By The Holy Spirit1) The Holy Spirit Gives StrengthActs 1:8 NIV8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”Romans 8:1-2 NIV1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.Galatians 5:13 NIV13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom (and power and strength)  to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.2) The Holy Spirit DOWNLOADS DIRECTIONRomans 8:5-6 NIV5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.Romans 8:14 NIVFor those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.Galatians 5:16 NIV16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.3) The Holy Spirit FOSTERS FRUITFoster - to promote the growth or development of; further; encourageRomans 8:15-17 NIV15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. 17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.Galatians 5:22-23;25 NIV22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.  25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit

Poured Out // Week 5 // Who Is The Holy Spirit For?Acts 1:3- 11 NIV3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with[b] the Holy Spirit.”6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria,and to the ends of the earth.”9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.10 They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”Luke 11:13 NIV  If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”1. He has come for the WEAK.Romans 8:26a NLTAnd the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness.Ephesians 3:16 NIV16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,1. He has come for the WEAK.2. He has come for the WOUNDED.2 Corinthians 3:17 NIV  Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.1. He has come for the WEAK.2. He has come for the WOUNDED.3. He has come for the WEARY.John 16:7 NIV 7 But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.Matthew 11:28-30 NIV28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”John 4:23 NIV Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.

John 14:16-18 NIV16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate (HOLY SPIRIT) to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[a] in you. 18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.1) The Holy Spirit CallsActs 9:1-6 NIV1 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”Romans 8:16 NIVThe Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children.For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. (NLT)2) The Holy Spirit ComfortsActs 9:26-28 NIV26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.Acts 9:31 NIV31 Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.2 Corinthians 1:3-4Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.3) The Holy Spirit CommissionsCOMMISSION: an instruction, command, or duty given to a person or group of people.Acts 9:15 NIV15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.John 16:13a NIVBut when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.  

Poured Out // Week 3 // 3 Baptisms in ScriptureBaptism - TO BE IMMERSED.Baptism into the Body of Christ.1 Corinthians 12:13a NASB13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body...Galatians 3:26-27 NIV26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.John 20:19-22 NIV19 On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. 21 Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” 22 And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.Luke 24:36-37 NIV36 While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 37 They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost.Luke 24:49 NIV49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”Acts 1:3-5 NIV3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command:“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”Baptism into the Body of ChristBaptism in Water.Acts 2:41a NIV41 Those who accepted his message were baptized…Matthew 10:32-3332 Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. 33 But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven.Baptism into the Body of Christ.Baptism in Water.3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit.Acts 8:5;12 NIV5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. 12 But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.Acts 8:14-17 NIV14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.1 John 5:7-8 NKJV7 For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one. 8 And there are three that bear witness on earth: the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree as one.1. Baptism into the Body of Christ.2. Baptism in Water.   3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit.Ezekiel 47:3 NIV3 As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and then led me through water that was ankle-deep.Ezekiel 47:4a NIV4 He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep.Ezekiel 47:4b NIV4b He measured off another thousand and led me through water that was up to the waist.Ezekiel 47:5 NIV5 He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in—a river that no one could cross.

Poured Out // Week 2 // Why Did The Holy Spirit Come?Acts 2:1-4 NIVWhen the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.1. He came to bring UNITY where there was UNRESTActs 2:5-12 NIV5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren't all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 ; Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”2. He came to bring FIRE where there was FEARActs 2:13 NIV13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”Acts 2:22-24 NIV22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God's deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.3. He came to bring DIRECTION where there was DOUBTActs 2:37-39 NIV37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”ACTS 2:41-42,46-47 NIV41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Poured Out // Week 1 // Who Is The Holy Spirit?1. Spirit of TruthJohn 14:17; 15:26 NIV17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.26 “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.2. The Holy SpiritEphesians 1:13b-14 NLTAnd when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. 14 The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him.HE IS HOLY.Holy:  “set apart...sanctified...sacred...consecrated… or dedicated completely”Ephesians 4:30 NLT30 And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.Romans 8:1-4 NIVTherefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.3. The Spirit of GodGenesis 1:2 & 26a NIV2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likenessJob 33:4 NIVThe Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.Romans 8:14 NIV14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.