Prairie Bible Church Messages

The trial of Jesus is really a trial of all those around him. Peter hits rock bottom as he denies Jesus three times, and Annas fails to grasp his own need for Jesus. Peter's story is our story: repeated failing, yet restored by the faithfulness of Christ. His story reminds us that Jesus can bring us back from the brink if only we would turn to Him. Our God is high and lifted up, but He also has compassion on those who have hit rock bottom: “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.” (Isaiah 57:15) Take-Home Message: Christ's faithfulness triumphs over my failures.  Christ's faithfulness triumphs over… My failure to see reality (12-14). The Trial of Jesus Phase 1 of Jewish trial: Jesus before Annas (Jn. 18:12-14, 19-23). Phase 2 of Jewish trial: Jesus before the Sanhedrin (Matt. 26:57-68). Phase 1 of Roman trial: Jesus before Pilate (Jn. 18:28-38a; Matt. 27:11-14). Phase 2 of Roman trial: Jesus before Herod Antipas (Lk. 23:6-12). Phase 3 of Roman trial: Jesus before Pilate again (Jn. 18:38b-19:16; Matt. 27:15-31). My failure to follow boldly (15-18). Why did Peter deny Jesus?Wrong expectation Wrong confidence Wrong urgency My failure to recognize authority (19-24). My failure to stop failing (25-27). Message: The Trial and Denial of Jesus Scripture: John 18:12-27 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

As Jesus stared down the barrel of a horrific death– drinking the cup of the wrath of God against all sin– He exhibited stunning courage. Even Judas and the soldiers were compelled to bow at the force of His proclamation, “I AM.” Their forced response to Jesus' courage should be our voluntary response: to fall down before Jesus in awe. Christ's courage at the end of His life compels the worship of all. “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:8-11) Take-Home Message: The courage of Christ compels me to worship. The Courageous Christ…  Stepped forward into darkness (1-4). Why did Judas betray Jesus? Wrong expectation Wrong treasure Wrong influence Stood up for the disciples (5-9). Submitted to His demise (10-12). Message: The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus  Scripture: John 18:1-12 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus knew that His people would struggle with staying together. When we quarrel with other Christians over trivial matters, we look just like the divided world around us. The Bible teaches that there are times when divisions are necessary, and we need the courage to separate when it is for God's glory. But may we only separate from professing Christians when the Bible tells us to do so. As the High Priestly Prayer concludes, Jesus reiterates His theme: our Union with Him. His earnest prayer throughout has been that we be united with Him. When we are united with Christ and with His people, a divided world takes notice. Take-Home Message: The Lord's greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities. Jesus Prays for Our Unity with Believers (20-23). When should believers not separate?Over trivial differences Perceived slightsTo avoid accountability When should believers separate?When professing Christian churches are in obvious error.When professing Christians are in sin and unrepentant. Jesus Prays for Our Union with Him (24-26). What is Union with Christ?NOT God then meNOT God not meNOT God plus meGod in me. Take-Home PrioritiesBe united with Christ.Be united with Christ's people. Message: Jesus Prays for Us Scripture: John 17:20-26 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus knew that His Apostles' battle would continue after He ascended to heaven. Satan would go after them and seek to destroy them. But Jesus prayed to His Father, “I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one.” He wanted them to be in the world, but to be different from the world. Jesus' prayer for His closest followers reflects His desires for us: that our joy would be full, that we would be protected from Satan, and that we would be set apart for holy service to God. All these things are only found through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Take-Home Message: The Lord's greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities. What is an Apostle? The Apostles were those specially chosen and commissioned by Christ to speak with His authority.  Jesus Prays for His Apostles' Joy (13). Superficial Joy vs. True JoyFake JoyFickle JoyFading JoyForever Joy Jesus Prays for His Apostles' Protection (14-16). Jesus Prays for His Apostles' Sanctification (17-19). Sanctify– To be set apart for holy service to God Take-Home PrioritiesBe forever joyful.Be watchful in the world.Be set apart by the Word. Message: Jesus Prays for His Apostles: Part 2 Scripture: John 17:13-19 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus devotes more of His longest recorded prayer to the Apostles than anyone else. He spent a major portion of His ministry on them, because He knew that they would be trusted with continuing His work. Christ's discipleship model was the opposite of a mile wide and an inch deep. He wanted a few committed followers more than fans. In this prayer, Jesus does not ask His Father to take the Apostles out of the world but to keep them while they are in the world. The Apostles' success, like ours, was rooted in God's ability to keep them. Take-Home Message: The Lord's greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities. Jesus Prays His Apostles' Authority (6-7) -        What is an Apostle? ·       The Apostles were those specially chosen and commissioned by Christ to speak with His authority.  Jesus Prays for His Apostles' Assignment (8) -        Determining My Assignment·       The Holy Spirit·       God's Word·       Other Christians·       Circumstances Jesus Prays for His Apostles' Assurance (9-12) Take-Home Priorities-        I must believe and receive-        I have an assignment-        I am being kept Message: Jesus Prays for His Apostles: Part 1 Scriptures: John 17:6-12 

Jeremiah 29:11 has had books and countless sermons preach on it over the years.o  Why? Because it's so aspirational, _____-______ and encouraging!§  But for that verse to carry its full impact, you must understand the ____________…Context of the book of Jeremiah:o  God's people found themselves in a deep hole… a hole that for the most part, they had dug for ____________!o  It was while in this deep hole that God sent His prophet to deliver a message. And what was that message?§  Well first let's talk about what it wasn't….·      It wasn't the message of a ______________ parent. “It's ok. I'll let it slide this time…” Nope!o  God's message: Choices have _________________ and you're going to have to deal with them… but…§  Don't _______  _____! Because I'll never give up on you!·      Jeremiah 29:11- I have made plans for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.God's lesson for you today:o  Someday you will find yourselves in a deep hole. Therefore:§  Remember to take _____________ for the choices you've made and the _______________ that follow.·      And then remember… o  God ________ gives up on you! Remember, that He has plans for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future! Message: “I have made plans for you- Part 2”Scripture: Jeremiah 29:4-11

John 17 is Jesus' longest prayer in all the Gospels. Think of all the mornings and nights that Jesus spent praying to His Father. It is here, in John 17, that we get a glimpse into the content of those prayers. Jesus was the most selfless person to ever live. He spent His ministry pouring into and praying for others. Yet Jesus also prayed for Himself. John 17:1-5 provides a fascinating look into Jesus' own prayer requests for Himself and thus what mattered most to Him. As Christ followers, what matters most to Jesus should matter most to us.  Take-Home Message: The Lord's greatest prayer reveals His greatest priorities. Jesus' High Priestly PrayerJesus prays for Himself (17:1-5)Jesus prays for His Apostles (17:6-19) Jesus prays for all believers (17:20-26) Jesus prays for HimselfJesus prays for His glory (1) §  What does it mean to glorify Jesus? “Glorifying” means feeling and thinking and acting in ways that reflect Jesus Christ's greatness. Is it righteous for Jesus to pray for His own glory?Yes, because Jesus' glory reflects and magnifies His Father's glory. Jesus prays for His gift (2-3) Jesus prays for His work (4-5) Take-Home PrioritiesCome to ChristGlorify ChristParticipate with Christ Message: Jesus Prays for Himself Scripture: John 17:1-5

A good memory is a skill, not a talent, and there are tools/techniques that can help you to develop that skill.In our scripture for today, God is using one of those tools to help us remember one of the most important truths in the world!Isaiah 46:3-11“To whom will you alien me too, and compare me, that we might be alike? Those who lavish gold from the purse and weigh out silver to the scales, hire a goldsmith and he makes it into a god… then they fall down and worship! They lift it to their shoulders and they carry it. They set it in place and it stands there; it cannot move from its place. If one cries to it, it does not answer or save him from his trouble. Remember this and stand firm. Recall it to mind, you transgressors. Remember the former things of old… for I am God and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me!” What is one of the most important truths to remember?“For I am God and there is no other. I am God and there is none like me! God uses a memory technique in this passage to help the people to remember. He uses something very important to them: Money! God wants us to enjoy the blessings of life!What God doesn't want, is for us to love our blessings more than the one who gives those blessings. So how can we avoid that pitfall? GIVE! Message:  “Moonwalking with Einstein” Scripture: Isaiah 46:3-11 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

There is no way around trouble and suffering in this life. Jesus said, “In the world you will have tribulation.” Yet He also told us, “But take heart; I have overcome the world.” To take heart means to be courageous. When faced with trouble, we can be courageous because we follow Someone who conquered everything the world threw at Him. Jesus calls His people not merely to survive but to thrive. “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) Take Home Message: Take Heart! Christ has conquered the world. “The world” in John: The sinful world system that opposes God. Christ's conquering turned our…  Sorrow to Joy (16-22) Formality to Family (23-28) Cowardice to Courage (29-33) Message: Christ Our Conqueror Scripture: John 16:16-33 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

 Most ingredients of any recipe are often distasteful by themselves. But put them all together and you get something WONDERFUL! So it is with the ingredients of Easter! The Ingredients of Easter: Palm Sunday Like sugar its sweet, but strangely unsatisfying.The Last Supper Like milk, wholesome and healthy, helping to keep us strongJudas' betrayal Like vanilla extract, bitter and overwhelming, but necessary to appreciate the flavor of all that will transpire.The torture and humiliation of Jesus Like raw eggs, that make kind of make you sick just to look at it.The crucifixion Like baking soda, horrible by itself, but mixed with everything else it will bring about the “rise” that the world celebrates today!The ingredients of each of our lives are often distasteful all by themselves. But when mixed together, create something beautiful… if… we give them to Jesus! Trust the ingredients of your life to Christ, and you will experience your own resurrection!Message: “Recipe for Victory!” Luke 24:1-8 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Many want to skip over Good Friday and get right to Easter. We want to skip the cross and get right to the empty tomb. But the gospel is a message about blood and sacrifice. To deal with sin, Jesus had to endure sorrow, grief, rejection, torture and death. If we remove these aspects of the gospel, we damage the gospel itself. Without the shed blood of Jesus on the cross, we could not have peace with God. “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22) Take-Home Question: What did it take for sinners to be reconciled to God? What did it take for sinners to be reconciled to God? Christ's Startling sacrifice (52:13-15).Christ's Suffering sacrifice (1-3). Christ's Substitutionary sacrifice (4-6). Christ's Silent sacrifice (7). Message: He Was Pierced for Our Transgressions Scripture: Isaiah 52:13-53:7 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Take Home Message: It is better for me that Jesus left, because He has sent the Spirit. The Work of the Holy Spirit | John 16:4-15It is better that Jesus left, because… The Spirit is now with me (4-7). The Holy Spirit… Makes me new and holy Convicts me of sin Comforts me in hardship Teaches me what is true Intercedes for me in my prayers Equips me with spiritual gifts Seals me for eternal life in Christ  The Spirit convicts the world (8-11). The Holy Spirit convicts the world… Of sin, because they do not believe in me (9).Of righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer (10).Of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged (11). The Spirit has delivered the truth for me (12-15).  Message: The Work of the Holy Spirit | John 16:4-15 Scripture: John 16:4-15  Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus said, “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first.” Followers of Jesus shouldn't be surprised when we are hated, because the very Founder of our faith was hated. We do not fit into this world, because we do not belong to this world. This means that life will be hard and our faith will cost us something. But that should not surprise us either, because Jesus' faithfulness cost Him his life. When our loyalty to Jesus means being hated by the world, may we say with the Apostle Paul, “I am not ashamed of the gospel.”Take-Home Message: The world hates Christians because the world hates Jesus. “The world” in John: The sinful world system that opposes God. If you are a Christian… The World Will Hate You (15:18-25) -          Why does the world hate Jesus?They do not know His Father (21)He exposes the world's sin (22-24)To fulfill God's Word (25) -          Why does the world hate Christians?We are not of this world (19) -          What does it mean to not be of this world?Our ultimate loyalty is not to our friends, our family, our company, our country, our race, or our culture. Instead, our ultimate loyalty is to Jesus.  The Spirit Will Help You (15:26-27) The Savior has Warned You (16:1-4) Message: Handling The World's Hatred Scripture: John 15:18 - 16:4 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Most of us have an “unbiblical” model of prayer!For example, many of us mistakenly believe that prayer is simply lifting our request unto God… which it is! But prayer is also “listening”! In other words, prayer is the center of our “relationship” between us and God!John 15:16“You did not choose me, I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name He will give it to you.” Have you ever asked God for something and not been given it?If so, what's going on? It all goes back to the word “abide”! Abide= To be with or to exist with…So, to abide with God means that He is the one from whom we receive “life” … a transformed life! For example, abiding with God will transform our “prayer life”!Psalm 37:4Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.Isaiah 55:9Just as the heaven are above the earth, so are God's ways above our ways, and His thoughts above our thoughts. Message: “A transformed Prayer Life” Scripture: John 15:9-17

We all have something that we believe will give us life.  Exercise, diets, money, accomplishments, family, status, and so much more.  The problem is—all of those things will either leave us empty or wanting more.  This is where the command of Jesus to abide in Him is so precious.  What we will see in these verses is Jesus calling us to find life—true, abundant, fruitful life—in Him.  How?  By abiding in Him.  BIG IDEA: True life is only found in abiding in Jesus. I abide in Jesus because…He gives me growth (1-2, 4-5).What God will prune: Sinful things Trivial thingsGood things He makes me clean (3).He keeps me forever (6-8).Take-Home QuestionsDo I abide in the Vine? Am I a true branch? Do I bear the fruit of the Vine? Message: True Life Scripture: John 15:1-8 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

When God shows up, the whole situation changes. His powerful presence has the ability to conquer everything that would take our peace. In John 14, Jesus reminds His disciples and us that God's presence is all we need to have true peace. Jesus tells us, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”  Take-Home Message: My peace is powered by God's presence. Peace to you! Because of God's Presence (25-27). God's peace provides Christians with… Supernatural calm(Col 3:15-16)Supernatural protection(Phil 4:6-7) Peace to you! Because of God's Greatness (28-29). Peace to you! Because of God's Victory (30-31). Message: Peace for Troubled Hearts Scripture: John 14:25-31 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Have you ever felt ill-equipped to serve God? If you have, that feeling may actually be your super-power!·   Today's passage will show us how… In verses 21 and 23 Jesus makes very similar statements. To paraphrase He says: “They who hear my words and keep my commandments, love me and my Father loves them.”·   Some have wrongfully interpreted that verse as “work's righteousness”.o   There is only one thing that makes us righteous and that's the shed blood of Jesus!·      But if that's not what Jesus was talking about, what did He mean? John 14:21b- He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and “manifest” myself to him.·   What does Jesus mean when He says; “I will manifest to you.”? Luckily, one of Jesus' disciples has the same question:o   John 14:22- Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him; Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world? John 14:23- If anyone loves me, he will keep my word and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.·   On the day of Pentecost Jesus' words were made manifest in the Church, for on that day the Holy Spirit was made available to ALL who would accept Him. Take home messageGod doesn't need people to do things for Him. He wants people who He can do things through! Theme: “God, manifest in US!” Scripture: John 14:18-24 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus doesn't leave you on your own when times get tough. He provides you with Himself and His powerful promises. The disciples were in the greatest storm they'd ever experienced. Jesus had just told them He was leaving and they couldn't follow Him now. Soon they would see their Lord betrayed, arrested, tried and crucified. Yet Jesus knew that because they were connected to Him, they could live with confidence. “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him.” (2 Corinthians 1:20) Take-Home Message: My confidence is built by clinging to Jesus.  The Promise of Knowing God (7-11). To know God, know Jesus. The Promise of Answered Prayer (12-14). To receive from God, ask Jesus. Praying in Jesus' name means…Praying in the authority of JesusPraying in the character of Jesus.Praying in the will of Jesus.The Promise of the Holy Spirit (15-17). To Live in God's power, Obey Jesus. Message: Confidence for Troubled Hearts Scripture: John 14:7-17 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebble.org

Jesus knew what it meant to be troubled. He was troubled when his friend Lazarus died (Jn. 11:33). He was troubled when he considered the cross (Jn. 12:27). He was troubled when he thought of Judas' betrayal (Jn. 13:21). He told his followers, “In this world you will have trouble.” He knew that we too would face seasons of emotional distress. Yet Jesus also provided the solution: Himself. He said, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jn. 16:33) Take-Home Message: My troubled heart will not rest until I rest in Jesus. Jesus provides empathy for my troubled heart (1). Jesus provides security for my troubled heart (2-3). Jesus provides the security of… Eternity in Heaven (2).Adoption by the Father (2).Union with Christ (3). Jesus provides Himself for my troubled heart (4-6). Jesus Himself is… The “I AM” The Way The Truth The Life The Only Way Message: Comfort for Troubled Hearts Scripture: John 14:1-6 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

When it comes to the story of Jesus washing the disciple's feet, it feels like the Church has exhibited “selective hearing”!o   In today's passage Jesus tells us why we should pay closer attention! John 13:18-30o   In this part of our passage Jesus is demonstrating that it's been prophesied that that He would be betrayed! (Psalm 41:9)§  In other words, He's NO victim! This is part of the PLAN! John 13:31-38o   In verse 34 Jesus gives a “new commandment”, to love one another.§  What's so “new” about this?! Even non-religious people love their family and friends.·         This is where Jesus washing the feet of the disciples comes in.o   By washing the feet of the disciples Jesus was turning societal norms upside down!§  You must never think you are too good or too important to do anything, as a Christian.·         THAT'S NEW!§  Living like that will not only cause the world to sit up and take notice, it will cause God to, too!Theme: New Commandment Scripture: John 13:18-38 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Many want to be great, but few want to be a servant. Even the disciples spent the final hours of Jesus' life debating who was the greatest among them (Luke 22:24). Jesus showed them true greatness– He washed their feet.  “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil. 2:4-11) Take-Home Message: If you want to be great, serve. Jesus served His betrayer (1-4). Jesus served His abandoner (5). Jesus served His denier (6-11). Jesus told us to serve (12-17). Message: Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet Scripture: John 13:1-17 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

As we travel through life, there is both the journey and the destination.Don't under-value either one! They are BOTH a BIG deal! John 12:36-43In this part of the passage John references a prophesy found in Isaiah 6:10, which says “God blinded their eyes and He hardened their hearts, lest the see with their eyes and understand with their hearts, and turn so that God would heal them.” Is this prophesy saying that God “caused” people NOT to believe?Something to consider: The Destination- Jesus WAS going to be rejected and crucified by the people. There was no getting around that. It had to happen The Journey- How that took place could play out in any number of ways: God didn't have to “make” people do something. He knew the condition of their hearts. Therefore, He just guided them! For example; John 12:42-43 says that some actually DID believe! They just didn't stand up for Jesus! Which ultimately led to His crucifixion!John 12:44-50The journey/destination analogy works here too, just in a different way: The Journey- In verse 47 Jesus says that anyone who hears His word but does not keep His word, He does not judge. The Destination- In verse 48 Jesus that the one who rejects Him and does not receive His word, does have judge… The WORD that He has spoken will judge them in the Last Day! (John 1:1, Rev. 19:13)Here is the good news: We are still on the journey! We have yet to reach the final destination.Don't wait. Choose Jesus today!Message: Journey/DestinationScripture: John 12:36-50Simple. Authentic. Jesus.Prairiebible.org

Have you ever gone through a hard time in life and wished you didn't have too?o   Well, you're not alone. Even Jesus went through a time like that.§  Today passage teaches how He chose to deal with it. John 12:27o   Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? “Father, save me from this hour.”? But for this purpose, I have come to this hour.§  “Purpose” is what got Him through… ·         Jesus chose not to focus on His circumstance, but on the purpose for which He was going through this circumstance! John 12:35-36o   The LIGHT is among you but a little while longer. Walk while you have the LIGHT, lest the darkness overtake you. While you have the LIGHT, believe in the LIGHT, that you might become Sons of LIGHT!§  Jesus, the LIGHT, gives everything PURPOSE, even our pain and suffer, if only we would give it to Him. Jesus is inviting you to walk in the LIGHT…o   Will you? Message: “Purpose” Scripture: John 12:27-36 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

The offer of eternal life is something we all want.  It is something that we all seek after and crave—the best life possible.  The problem is, we often look in the wrong places.  But Jesus offers this to us by His grace.  But, there is a cost that comes with eternal life. Jesus clearly lays out for us in John 12:20-26 what that cost is—death. BIG IDEA: Eternal life comes at the cost of death. What kind of death must take place for eternal life? The death of Christ (v20-24)The Cost of the Cross Emotional Cost Physical Cost Spiritual CostThe death of me (v25-26) Take-Home QuestionsHave I died to myself and been made alive in Christ?What are the true priorities in my life?Will I share my life in Christ with others? Message: The Cost of Eternal Life Scripture: John 12:20-26 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus did not fixate on the chaos around him. He focused instead on His Father. He was utterly committed to accomplishing His Father's mission, and nothing deterred Him. He “set his face” to go to Jerusalem, and ultimately to the cross for us.  What gets in the way of your focus on God's plan? Perhaps it is a desire for people's approval, fixating on people's perception of you, or putting your own plans first. Faithfulness requires that we instead focus on God's approval, perception and plan. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matt. 6:33)Take-Home Message: Faithfulness requires focus on my Father's plan. Jesus focused on… His Father's mission, not people's approval (12-13, 17-18).His Father's Word, not people's perception (14-16).His Father's plan, not people's tradition (19). Take-Home QuestionsWhose approval matters most to you?Whose perception matters most to you? Whose plan matters most to you? Message: The Faithful King and the Fleeting Crowd Scripture: John 12:12-19 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Sometimes the best answer to the question of whether something is right or wrong is:It depends… Our passage today begins with Mary performing an act of extravagant love!But Judas complains! “This stuff is expensive! It could have been sold to take care of the poor!” Which is true, but notice how Jesus responds: “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you will always have with you, but you do not always have me.” (Vs. 7)Was Jesus implying that we shouldn't take care of the poor?!Of course not! He was saying; Circumstance matters! If you're wondering what the right thing to do is in any given situation:Check your heart!Message: Check Your Heart Scripture: John 12:1-11

Why does there seem to be a disconnect between what we say we believe andhow we actually live? We say that Jesus has changed our lives, and yet, ourday-to-day doesn't seem all that different. Why is this the case? Jesus shows usin Luke 6:46-49 where He gives a parable of two houses and the foundationupon which they are built. Jesus desires for our lives to be built upon Him and Helays out for us what this entails in this necessary passage of Scripture. Three reasons why we don't do what Jesus tells us to do…  1) We think it's unrealistic.  2) We don't want to.  3) We don't know how to.If my life is built on Jesus…  1) I come to Jesus (v47).  2) I hear and do what Jesus says (v47).  3) I have dug deep with Jesus (v48).  4) I stand firm in Jesus (v48).If my life is not built on Jesus…  1) I hear and do not do what Jesus says (v49).  2) I have not dug deep with Jesus (v49).  3) The fall will be great (v49). Message: Foundation Luke 6:46-49 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Christ is not Jesus' last name, it is His title. It is the greatest title that any person who walks this earth can receive. In a world of influencers that claim to understand the world and have all the answers, only Jesus qualifies for the title of Christ.  Yet Christ lived life as an outsider. He was born in a feeding trough (manger), outside the Inn. He took on the form of a servant and submitted Himself to death on a cross. “Therefore, God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11) Take-Home Message: Jesus alone qualifies for the title of Christ. The Credentials of Christ (1-7)The Credentials of Christ:Born in Bethlehem (4)From the line of David (4)Born of a virgin (5)The Celebration of Christ (8-14)The Consecration of Christ (15-21) Message: The Birth of Jesus Christ  Scripture: Luke 2:1-21 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

v  As we conclude the Book of Ruth, we celebrate with Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, the birth of a baby.o   A child who would ultimately lead to the birth of THE baby who we celebrate today: Jesus! v  Ruth 4:1-12o   In this passage Boaz is “making good” on the promise he made to Ruth in chapter 3, “I will provide you a kinsmen Redeemer”.§  He's also “making good” on the faith that Naomi placed in him, as well, “He will do what is right and do it quickly”.·         And he does it all with integrity and wisdom… never cutting corners that could ultimately lead to the loss of all he holds dear.v  Ruth 4:13-22o   This is a beautiful, yet odd scene, to some:§  Naomi is the center of this passage NOT Boaz and Ruth! Why?·         Because this child Obed, would become her kinsmen Redeemer! And it would be through him that her of her husband and son's lineage survive!o   Ah, but not just survive… THRIVE!v  Isaiah 9:6-7o   For unto to us a child is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace, there will be no end. On the throne of David and over His kingdom, to establish it and uphold it with justice and righteousness from this time forth and forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. v  No other book of the Bible begins so dark and hopeless than does the Book of Ruth.o   And few books of the Bible end with more HOPE! Hope that would eventually come to all of us in the form of a babe, who would be named Jesus!Message: HOPE! Scripture: Ruth Chapter 4 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

The Bible is full of people who do surprisingly bold things through faith, and God blesses them. When our plans are in alignment with God's will, it's okay to be bold! In Ruth 3, Naomi and Ruth hatch a plan for carrying out God's redemption of their family. Ruth approaches Boaz with boldness, and the rest is history. Ruth, a Moabite woman, would go on to be included in the lineage of Christ through Boaz (Matt. 1:5). Take-Home Message– Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Naomi's Plan (1-5)Ruth's Bold Move (6-9)Boaz's Response (10-15)Ruth Returns to Naomi (16-18) Lessons from Ruth 3Watch while you wait (2).Listen while you wait (5).Take bold action when God opens the door (7b-9).Remember God's deliverance (13). Message: Ruth and Boaz at the Threshing Floor Scripture: Ruth 3:1-18 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

God has a way of showing up when all hope seems lost. Naomi's world collapsed when she lost her husband and both of her sons. All hope seemed lost as she returned home with Ruth. But in the midst of her darkness, God was working for her redemption. In Ruth 2, we see God's plan for a radical redemption of Ruth and Naomi. This redemption is a portrait of our redemption through Christ.  Take-Home Message: When all hope seemed lost, God sent my Redeemer. Ruth and Boaz Meet (1-7). Boaz and Ruth Honor Each Other (8-17).Boaz honored Ruth by…Protecting her (8-9).Praising her godliness (10-13).Providing for her (14-16).Ruth honored Boaz by… Respecting him (10, 13).Praising his godliness (10, 13).Providing for Naomi (17). Naomi experiences new hope (18-23).·         The Kinsman-Redeemer could redeem… A family member sold into slavery (Lev. 25:47-49).Land that needed to be sold under financial distress (Lev. 25:23-28).The family name through a levirate marriage (Deut. 25:5-10).·         Christ our Kinsman-RedeemerChrist redeemed us from slavery to sin (Rom. 3:23-24; 6:15-18).Christ redeemed our property privileges lost in the Fall (Gen. 3).Christ redeemed our family name – children of God (1 John 3:1). Message:  Ruth Meets Boaz Scripture:   Ruth 2:1-23 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Faith is not a feeling… but…It's a beautiful thing in those “moments” when our faith and our feelings do connect!Today we're going to look at three very different examples of “faithfulness”OrpahRuth NaomiOrpahOn the surface it may appear that Orpah is the least faithful of these three women. But don't be so sure. Even though we are all called to be faithful, we don't all have the same calling! The evidence shows that Oraph was living into her calling.RuthShe's the heroin of the story, as the name of the book implies. Her faith was exhibited in love, determination and selflessness. But the fact is, maybe we're giving Ruth more credit than is deserved… Perhaps her faithfulness to Naomi grew out of the fact that she had nothing to go home too! We don't know… But does it matter? The fact is, her faithfulness is one of the most beautiful expressions of faithfulness in the entire Bible!NaomiHer faithfulness is expressed very differently than the other two. Ruth 1:20- “Call me Mara (which means bitter), for the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me…” In some ways, Naomi's expression of faithfulness is the best of all! She didn't loose her faith in the midst of her trials and tribulations. Was she angry and bitter? Yes! But she didn't give up, and God blessed her for that!God's got broad shoulders. He can take it if you get mad at Him.Just don't give up on Him!  Faithful (Even when you don't feel like it) Scripture: Ruth 1:6-22 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

The Bible is not a “history book”. It is a book that contains history. But… Its ultimate purpose is to tell the story of God's plan to save the world. Jesus!All throughout the Old Testament, we find “easter eggs” pointing to Jesus.The Book of Ruth is filled with them! No other book in the Bible starts out quite so “dark” as the Book of Ruth:Famine, death and uncertainty about the future abound.Definition of an “easter egg” in this context:A hidden clue that gives us a glimpse into what the future holds.Our passage today has a not-so-hidden clue pointing us to Jesus:Ruth 1:1- In the days when Judges ruled there was a famine in the land, and a man of Bethlehem in Judea, went to live the land of Moab. From the little town of Bethlehem would come the Savior of the world… Jesus!Naomi was faced with much uncertainty, but she knew a few things: She knew God was still on the throne and that He was still in control, even if it felt like everything was out of control! And she knew that God had a plan. Why? Because He said so! What will you choose when faced with the uncertainties of life?!Message: Hope in the Midst of DespairScripture: Ruth 1:1-5

When you are gone, how will people remember your relationship with Jesus? Will you have a legacy of faith or a legacy of unbelief? When Jesus healed Lazarus, the authorities had a choice: embrace Jesus as the Christ, or reject him once and for all. They made the tragic decision of rejecting Jesus – they fixed their decision to kill him. The religious authorities' story is a tragedy – a terrifying example of the result of rejecting Jesus when He clearly reveals Himself to us. How will your response to Jesus be remembered? You can either be a good example, or a fearful warning. Take-Home Message: My response to Jesus determines how I will be remembered. My response to Jesus when I'm losing control (45-48). Responding to Jesus when I'm losing control: Do I believe that Jesus is in control? Do I believe that Jesus is good? Will I follow Jesus into the unknown?My response to Jesus when I'm planning my course (49-53). Responding to Jesus when I'm planning my course: Look for God's clues in your circumstances. Pray. Seek God in His Word. Seek Christian counsel. Walk in obedience.My response to Jesus when I'm reaching a conclusion (54-57). Message: The Plot to Kill Jesus Scripture: John 11:45-57 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Setting up our passage for today: In Luke 10:41-42 there is an encounter between Jesus, Mary and her sister, Martha. Martha is upset because Mary isn't helping and she asks Jesus to intervene. Jesus responds by saying; “Martha, you worry about so much, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and I'm not taking it away from her.” How would you have responded to Jesus' rebuke? Keep that in mind as we look at our passage for today.John 11:28- When Martha had said this, she went and said to her sister Mary, in private; “The teacher is here and is calling for you.” It's just speculation to try and understand what motivated Martha when she said this. But keeping in mind the story from Luke, and what Martha said to Jesus in verses 21-22, is it fair to speculate that Mary may have been thinking this: “Jesus thinks Mary's more holy than me. Maybe he'll listen to her?!”Putting aside all this speculation, let's focus on some facts: Jesus loved Mary and Martha, both, with every fiber of His being. Just as He loves us! When Jesus answers a request, He does it according to what's BEST!Jesus is not immune to the pain that His answers to our request may cause. Three times in this passage we find evidence of this: Verse 33- Jesus was deeply troubled… Verse 35- Jesus wept… Verse 38- Jesus was deeply moved…You can trust that the pain and the suffering you're experiencing has a purpose, too… IF… you will put your trust in Jesus!Message: Purpose in our pain Scripture: John 11:28-44 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus often makes us wait to see His miracles. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but He did not do it right away. Jesus waited two days after hearing that Lazarus was ill to go to him. Lazarus was in the tomb four days before Jesus raised him. Jesus waited until many Jews had gathered to console Mary and Martha before healing Lazarus. Jesus made them wait. God is seldom early, but He is never late. He is always on time! If we had all of the information that God had, we would understand His timing. But we don't, and that means we need to trust Him. When Jesus makes us wait, may we say with the Psalmist, “I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Ps. 27:13-14) Take-Home Message: Jesus makes me wait so that I may believe. Wait, because Jesus can do miracles (17-19). Wait, and Jesus will strengthen your faith (20-23). Wait, and Jesus will give you life (25-27). Message: I Am the Resurrection and the Life Scripture:  John 11:17-27 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Can you remember a time in your life when people that you loved, treated you in a way that didn't “feel” loving?o  How did you respond?The story of the death and resurrection of Lazarus is one of the most powerful in the Bible!o  But there's more to the story and first meets the eye. This passage deals with two things that people experience everyday:§ The fact that Jesus loves us.§ And the fact that we often don't understand that love, in the moment!John 11:5-8o  Now Jesus LOVED Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard Lazarus was ill, He STAYED two days long in the place that He was. Then after this, He said to His disciples; Let us go to Judea again. And the disciples said; “Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone you and you want to go back there again?”§ On the surface, Jesus' behavior did NOT seem loving, but to the disciples, it at least seemed logical. Going to Lazarus would have been dangerous!·      Neither of those things was true, however! He WAS being loving and there was nothing to FEAR!o     They just didn't understand.Are you willing to trust Jesus, believing that He loves you? And are you willing to follow Him, wherever He may lead?!o  That's exactly what He's asking of each of us every day! Message: “Understanding Love” Scripture: John 11:1-16 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

You cannot say that Jesus was only a good man. He did not leave that option open to you. Jesus is either God, or a really bad man who claimed to be God. But we know that Jesus was not just a good man. We know and openly confess that Jesus is who He claimed to be: God.  Jesus said, “before Abraham was, I am.” He said, “I and the Father are one.” He is “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature.” He is the Word made flesh. He is worthy of the same honor, praise, worship, glory and majesty as the Father and the Holy Spirit. And we unashamedly lift high the name of Jesus as God at Prairie Bible Church. Take-Home Message: Jesus is God. Jesus' words declare that Jesus is God (31-33). Jesus' witness declares that Jesus is God (34-36). Jesus' works declare that Jesus is God (37-39). John's witness declares that Jesus is God (40-42). Message: The Divine Son Scripture: John 10:31-42 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

As important as the destination is, never forget… Sometimes the journey is just as important!Our passage today is the center of a theological debate that has been raging in the Church for 2000 years: Is it possible for a person to lose their salvation?!John 10:27-28 “My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. And no one shall snatch them from my hand.” On the surface this passage seems to end any debate as to whether someone can lose their salvation.  It's a resounding NO!!!! Or is it???Hebrews 6:4-6 It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened. Who have tasted of the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit. And have tasted of the Word of God and the power of the coming age. And then, having fallen away for them to be restored again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding Him in contempt. On the surface, this passage seems to be in contradiction to the passage above. But is it?Remember: God does NOT contradict Himself. If two passages seem to be in contradiction, the problem is not God. It's us. We must always approach the scripture with humility…There are many scriptures that you will wrestle with, study, and pray over, and still not come to a definitive conclusion. But always remember: Sometimes the journey is more important than the destination.  Especially if you are journeying with Jesus!Theme: The Most Important Thing Scripture: John 10:22-30 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus is the Good Shepherd, but what does that mean? There is more than one word for “good” in Koine Greek, but the two most common are agathos and kalos. While agathos focuses on “useful”, kalos focuses on “beautiful” and “excellent.” Kalos denotes a captivating and attractive character. Jesus is the beautiful and excellent shepherd that attracts and captives us! What is it that makes Jesus so attractive and captivating? His love. Jesus' love for His sheep was demonstrated so beautifully that it should attract us to Him. Despite the grisly nature of the cross, there is something incredibly beautiful and captivating about it. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Take-Home Message: The Good Shepherd loves His sheep. The Good Shepherd…  Died for His sheep (11-13). Unites His sheep (14-16). Has authority over His sheep's enemies (17-18). Jesus has authority… Over Satan.Over sin.Over sickness.Over death.Over everything. Separates His sheep from the world (19-21). Message: I Am the Good Shepherd Scripture: John 10:11-21 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

v  The thing that sets Jesus apart from ALL others is this:o   He has come to give LIFE… Life abundant! v  Jesus often uses cultural analogies/illustrations to teach eternal truths.o   The eternal truth that Jesus is teach in this passage is that HE is the only way to God! v  Cultural analogy/illustration #1 (vs. 9)o   I am the “door” of the sheep…§  Eternal truth; §  Anyone who enters by me will be saved! v  Cultural analogy/illustration #2 (vs. 10)o   The thief comes to kill, steal and destroy (False Messiahs)§  Eternal truth; §  I came to give life abundant! v  It is the human condition to gravitate towards a self-centered life.o   “Life abundant” is not self-centered, but Christ-centered! Message: “Life Abundant” Scripture:  John 10:7-10 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

The world Jesus entered was filled with false leaders. The spiritual leaders of the nation had become self-interested. Rather than caring for the people, they fattened themselves. They were self-appointed and self-righteous. Jesus entered their world and said, “I am the Good Shepherd.” He was appointed by His Father as the true leader of God's people. He is the Chief Shepherd to which all other leaders of God's people must submit.  If we are true sheep, we will follow Jesus, the True Shepherd. Following Jesus means having a personal relationship with Him and being led by the Holy Spirit in our daily lives. Jesus calls us by name and tenderly guides us as we listen to His voice. How do we discern His voice from the voice of a stranger? Jesus said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn. 8:31-32).  Take-Home Message: True sheep follow the True Shepherd. Introducing John 10 Old Testament Connections Ezek. 34; Ps. 23:1; Isa. 40:11; Jer. 3:15; cf. Isa. 56:9-12; Jer. 23:1-4; 25:32-38; Zech. 11:16 New Testament Connections Matt. 9:36; Mark 6:34; 14:27; Luke 15:1-7  The True Shepherd (10:1-3a) The True Sheep (10:3b-5)True Sheep… Hear Jesus' voice (3).Follow Jesus (4).Know Jesus' voice (4-5). The False Shepherds (10:6) Message:  The True Shepherd Scripture: John 10:1-6 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

If we are to be healed, we must first admit that we cannot heal ourselves. How many of us have tried to go it alone, only to find that we are not the greatest managers of our own lives? The only way to find true life is to have Jesus open your eyes. And the only way to have Jesus open your eyes is to admit that you are blind.  The road to Jesus is a road paved with humility. You must acknowledge your need for Him and that you are helpless without Him. Until you are willing to do that, you will not see. But if you will come to Him and admit that you are blind, he will open your eyes, and you will begin to see reality. Take-Home Message: I cannot see unless I first admit that I am blind. The Response of the Man Born Blind (35-38). A pattern for those who see… Cast out of the worldFound by JesusRespond with beliefRespond with worship The Response of the Pharisees (39-41). Message: The Man Born Blind: Part 3 Scripture: John 9:35-41 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Though sharing our faith is one of the most important purposes we have a Christians, many of us fail to do so for two primary reasons:Fear of what others might think of us.The fear we won't know what to say. Three lessons on how to share your faith: John 9:13-17; Focus on what you know You don't have to KNOW everything! John 9:18-23; Share YOUR story NOT somebody else'sJohn 9:24-34: You're not an expert on everything BUT you are an expert on your own experience with Christ!Just remember, your purpose as a Christian is not necessarily to be an expert theologian.Your purpose is to be the ultimate expert on your own experience with Jesus!Theme: How to share your testimony Scripture: John 9:13-34 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

It is easy to lose sight of God's purposes in the face of suffering. When darkness surrounds us, we say with the Psalmist, “Why, O Lord, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (Ps. 10:1). But God is far more present in seasons of difficulty than we realize. When suffering is most intense and night is most dark, God is at work accomplishing his purpose. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (Jn. 1:5). God will bring deliverance in His good time. When that happens, may we share our testimony of His goodness and point others toward the deliverance that can only be found in the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. Take-Home Message: The Light of the World opens my eyes to see opportunity in difficulty. The Light of the World helps me see… Suffering as an opportunity for God's glory (1-3).Night as an opportunity for Christ's work (4-7).Deliverance as an opportunity for my testimony (8-12). Message: Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind Scripture: John 9:1-12 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus said to His opponents, “I honor my Father, and you dishonor me.” This statement summarizes much of His interaction with His people. Jesus “came to His own and His own did not receive him.” Yet Jesus knew when to fight and when to surrender. He often surrendered when He was dishonored, even to the point of the cross. But He fought when the Father and the Holy Spirit's honor was on the line. He knew His Father would glorify Him in the end. If we honor the Son, God will also honor us with Christ in the end. Whose honor are you more concerned about: yours or God's? Take-Home Message: The Father honors those who honor His Son. Honor God… When you are dishonored (48-51).And let Him seek your honor (52-56).By Seeking His Son's Honor (57-59). Message: Honor the Son Scripture: John 8:48-59 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

We all come to life with an earthly heritage which defines us to some degree. But our earthly heritage is not what will ultimately define us. Our spiritual heritage will, and we get to choose what that will be! Setting the context for our passage: In last week's passage Jesus confronted with the Jews with the fact He knew they were planning to murder Him. But they don't even recognize they are being called out! Instead, they double down on trying to elevate “their” truth above “THE” truth. So, Jesus decided to change His tactics… Verse 39- “IF… you are children of Abraham…”In verse 43 Jesus asks a rhetorical question: “Why don't you understand what I say?” He then answers His own question: “Because you can't bear to hear my words!” Why????In verse 44 Jesus tells them why: “Because you are of your father the devil, and you will do what your father desires.” Is this too harsh? Did the Jews choose the devil as their spiritual father?When a person does not choose Jesus, they by default, do not choose God! But you have to choose something! Not choosing is to choose the devil as your spiritual father. Who do you choose???Message: Heritage Scripture: John 8:39-47 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

·         We are ALL sinners and slaves to sin… BUT… there is HOPE!o   Our HOPE is in Jesus, and Jesus alone!·         John 8:37 I” know that you are the off-spring of Abraham, yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you.”o   The ironic thing about this verse is that the Pharisee's don't even try to deny this accusation! Why?§  Because they are so caught in trying to refute “THE Truth” with “their truth”, that they don't even try to refute the most damning statement of all!·         This scene illustrates the condition of most people's hearts.·         John 8:34- 36 Jesus answered them; “Everyone who practices sin, is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever. The Son remains forever. So, if the Son sets you free, you are free, indeed.”o   In other words: We are all slaves to sin, but there is HOPE. ·         John 8:31 “If you abide in my words, you are truly my disciples. And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free!”o   In other words, don't just say you believe, live like you believe!·         One of the biggest LIES many Christians believe:o   I need to be strong and mature enough not to allow sin a foothold in my life!§  WRONG The battle does NOT belong to you. It belongs to Jesus!·         Surrender your sin to Jesus and you will be set free! Theme: Slaves to Sin Scripture: John 8:31-38

God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it (Job 33:14). The Pharisees had the Son of God standing right in front of them, yet they did not recognize Him. Responding to their repeated questions about His identity, Jesus' reply sums it up: “I have been telling you from the beginning.” They were too busy forming their arguments against Jesus to hear the truth from Him. We can exhaust ourselves trying to make sense of things without Jesus, but without Jesus, we cannot see the truth. Without Jesus, we cannot see reality about ourselves, others, or our purpose in life. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. He has come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in him may not remain in darkness (John 12:46). Once we become sons of light, we are called to patiently endure the persecution of the world as we witness about the Light. For Jesus also said, “You are the light of the world.” (Matthew 5:14) Take-Home Message: Without the __________ of the world, we are __________. Jesus' __________ (12)I Am the Light of the WorldIsaiah 49:6John 1:4-5, 9John 3:19-21John 12:35-36, 46 The Pharisees' __________ (13-30)Your __________ is not true. (13-18)Where is your __________? (19-20)Will He __________ himself? (21-24)__________ are you? (25-27) Jesus' __________ (28-30) Message: I Am the Light of the World Scripture: John 8:12-30

We come face to face with all sorts of different events, scenarios, and situations in this life. Some good, some bad. In these verses, we meet a woman who comes face to face with the consequences, the embarrassment, and the shame of her sin. She also comes face to face with Jesus. This was written so that we would be able to see, just as this woman did, Jesus as He truly is. Big Idea: I see clearly who __________ is when I am face to face with   ________. Textual Criticism: A method used to ______________ what the original manuscripts of the Bible said...[it] is the study of these manuscripts in an attempt to determine what the ________________ reading actually was. Matthew 9:13 - “Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire ____________, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but ______________.” Why do I keep on sinning?- I do not want to __________.- I am __________ to stop- I have tried to __________. Romans 8:1 - There is therefore now _____ ___________________ for those who are in Christ Jesus.  Message: Face to Face with Jesus Scripture: John 7:53-8:11 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

Jesus cried out to the crowd, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. He called his true followers to receive “rivers of living water” in their hearts through believing in him. Someday the Lord will sort out the wheat from the tares (Matt. 13:24-43) and the good fish from the bad fish (Matt. 13:48). But until then, he continues to call us out from the crowd. We are called to be set apart, and God provides opportunities for us to stand up for Christ.  Nicodemus was the most unlikely of true followers. His peer group was Jesus' staunchest critics and opponents. He first came to Jesus by night, yet now he is confronting his peers in defense of Jesus. He is a true follower, evidenced by his burial of Christ (Jn. 19:39). Jesus calls to us the same way he called to Nicodemus: Come out from the crowd! Take-Home Message: Jesus calls his followers out of the crowd. Jesus' Offer (37-39). The People's Response (40-52).The Convinced (40-41a).The Skeptic and the Hostile (41b-44).Generational Questions Baby Boomers (1946-64) – What is true?Gen X (1965-80) – What is real?Gen Y (1981-96) – What is good?Gen Z (1997-2012) – What is beautiful?§  Answering the skeptic and the hostile: Share the gospel of rescue and renewal.The Amazed (45-46).The Authorities (47-49).The Follower (50-52). Message: Rivers of Living Water Scripture: John 7:37-52