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Jesus spent a great deal of time alone in prayer communicating with the Father. Knowing how important true prayer is in the life of those who follow him, Jesus teaches us how to pray. The Lord's Prayer is a model prayer that shows us the attitudes we should have during prayer as well as the topics we should include when we pray. This passage and the sermon based on it are intended to encourage and equip you to have a robust, genuine, and powerful prayer life.Discussion Questions:Why do so many Christ-followers find prayer difficult? What specific barriers get in the way of your own praying? When was a time that prayer was a meaningful or powerful part of your life? What parts of the Lord's Prayer speak deeply to you? Which aspects of the Lord's Prayer are most difficult for you to embrace, believe or practice? How does Relationship with God inform your praying? What does it mean that God is our Father? Why is it difficult to depend on God for our “daily bread” when we live in relative luxury and apparent self-sufficiency? How does it make you feel that God expects you to give grace to others as a result of the grace he gives to you? Is there someone to whom you are unwilling to grant forgiveness?Do you believe and live as if there is a spiritual realm that is real and dangerous?Would God lead us into temptation? How should we understand that part of the Lord's Prayer? Prayer Points:Pray that the Lord will empower Sound City Bible Church to be a praying church.Pray that God will help us each to embrace the simplicity of prayer and step out in faith to open our hearts to God by regularly and consistently praying. Pray that God will move us with joy and conviction to be disciplined to set aside times to pray and to apply ourselves to learning and growing in our prayer lives. Pray for those who are intimidated by prayer that God will free them from the barriers, fears and anxieties that hold them back from praying. Pray for those who do not yet know our Father who is in heaven that they will hear and heed his drawing them to believe in his Son, Jesus.

(Episode Character: Lacey Winters)Lacey feels so different lately. Discussion Questions: Why do you think some people enjoy laughing at others? How does being laughed at affect the way an individual views himself or herself? Author: Judith DeStefano / Cover Art: Ashley Plank / Music: Michael DeStefano

Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “Controversy,” pp. 607, 608,in The Desire of Ages; and “The Law and the Covenants,” pp. 363–373, inPatriarchs and Prophets.How does Matthew 22:34–40 help us better understand (1) the placeand meaning of God’s law within His covenant and (2) the concept thatcovenant is synonymous with relationship?“There must first be love in the heart before a person can, in thestrength and by the grace of Christ, begin to observe the preceptsof God’s law (cf. Rom. 8:3, 4). Obedience without love is as impos-sible as it is worthless. But where love is present a person will auto-matically set out to order his life in harmony with the will of Godas expressed in His commandments.”—The SDA Bible Commentary,vol. 5, p. 484.“In the precepts of His holy law, God has given a perfect ruleof life; and He has declared that until the close of time this law,unchanged in a single jot or tittle, is to maintain its claim uponhuman beings. Christ came to magnify the law and make it honor-able. He showed that it is based upon the broad foundation of loveto God and love to man, and that obedience to its precepts comprisesthe whole duty of man. In His own life He gave an example of obe-dience to the law of God. In the Sermon on the Mount He showedhow its requirements extend beyond the outward acts and take cog-nizance of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”—Ellen G. White,The Acts of the Apostles, p. 505.Discussion Questions: Why does the thread of love exert a stronger pull than the ropeof fear to draw human beings to God? Why is the command to “ ‘ “love the Lord your God with allyour heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” ’ ”(Matt. 22:37, NIV) the first and greatest commandment? Simone Weil once wrote that “ ‘order is the first need of all.’ ”—Quoted in Russell Kirk, The Roots of American Order (Washington,D.C.: Regnery Gateway, 1992), p. 3. How do you understand herwords in the context of the week’s study, particularly in relationto the idea of law?Summary: God’s law was an integral part of the covenant. Yet, it wasa true covenant of grace. Grace, however, never nullifies the need forlaw. On the contrary, law is a means by which grace is manifested andexpressed in the lives of those who receive grace.

Guardrails are a series of short, pithy statements that we use as rallying points—both for The Vine's staff and for the entire church. They encapsulate our theology, values and philosophy in memorable phrases. Guardrails also exist to keep us accountable to stay on the path we believe God has for us. In short, these Guardrails describe the culture we hope to create and sustain. You can see the guardrails in their entirety at thevineaustin.org/guardrails Today, we consider the guardrail: "It is a sin to bore people with the Gospel." DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: - Why might it be helpful for a church to have a set of "guardrails?" - Read John 6:27-35. Jesus is trying to shift these people's view to see something new in him. How do you see the differences of perspective between Jesus and this group? - The crowd wanted a list of duties. “What must we do to do the works God requires?” From the sermon, why might it be difficult for us to "ditch the list?" - Ron shared that being a religious "poser" is boring. What is life giving about being more honest, authentic, and vulnerable in our life with Jesus? - Ron shared the Gospel moves us to engage with Christ and others. How do you see Jesus' modeling that for the disciples? How are these two engagements connected? www.thevineaustin.org

Further Thought: On the final cleansing of planet Earth from sin,read Ellen G. White, “The Controversy Ended,” in The Great Controversy,pp. 662–678.“And the years of eternity, as they roll, will bring richer and still moreglorious revelations of God and of Christ. As knowledge is progressive,so will love, reverence, and happiness increase. The more men learnof God, the greater will be their admiration of His character. As Jesusopens before them the riches of redemption and the amazing achieve-ments in the great controversy with Satan, the hearts of the ransomedthrill with more fervent devotion, and with more rapturous joy theysweep the harps of gold; and ten thousand times ten thousand and thou-sands of thousands of voices unite to swell the mighty chorus of praise.“ ‘And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and underthe earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I say-ing, Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sittethupon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.’ Revelation 5:13.“The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. Theentire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beatsthrough the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life andlight and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From theminutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate,in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”—Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, p. 678.Discussion Questions: Why is the promise of eternal life in a new heaven and a newearth so basic to our Christian belief? What good would our faithbe without that promise? Read 2 Peter 3:10–14. How do these verses reflect the sameidea presented in Isaiah 66?Summary: Isaiah presents a vision of staggering scope. Not only wouldGod purge and restore His community of faith but He also would enlargeits borders to encompass all nations. Ultimately the re-creation of Hiscommunity would lead to the re-creation of planet Earth, where His pres-ence would be the ultimate comfort of His people.

Many of us are familiar with Joseph McCarthy and his infamous hearings on Communism in the US government. What we don't know is that McCarthy was far from the first person to use these tactics. In this episode of the Truce Podcast we examine the Rapp-Coudert Committee-- an effort in the New York City school system to root out Communists, Fascists, and Nazis who might be teaching students. In the end, even outspoken Christians participated in this witch hunt, which targeted mostly Jewish teachers and staff. Discussion Questions: Why were Americans so afraid of Communists? Was it against the constitution to withhold rights from people because Rapp-Coudert was just a hearing? What would you have done if you were accused of being a communist? Would you have named names? Why were Jewish people targeted for violence by the Christian Front? Do the actions of one part of a group define the entire group? In this episode, some communists advocated for using schools to teach communism. But, to our knowledge, nobody in the district did that. Yet they were accused of having done so. Who do we scapegoat today in our society? Knowing that the Soviets did have spies working in the US government (like Klaus Fuchs who stole nuclear secrets), what should the government have done to root out spies? Helpful Links: Bad Faith: Teachers, Liberalism, and The Origins of McCarthyism by Andrew Feffer Fatty Arbuckle and the MPAA: episode of the Truce Podcast where we talk about how Christians censored the golden age of cinema The Santa Clause comic strip from the top of the show Smithsonian article about Soviet spies Brief article about the House Un-American Activities Committee Helpful article about the Communist Control Act

Fear Not - Isaiah 41-10 -Discussion Questions---Why do you think the Bible so often exhorts us to not be afraid---What should we do when we are afraid---What from the sermon was most helpful to you--Other Passages to Consider- -Ps 23- 56-3- Isa 43-1-7- Matt 6-25-34- 1 Pet 3-15

I believe that when we have true faith in Jesus, it changes out we live our lives. Our faith impacts our attitudes, our choice of words, our values, decisions, actions, and so much more. In fact if our lives aren't being changed to be more like Jesus, it brings in to question whether we have faith at all.“faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17)The Bible is teaching us that real faith is visible.  True saving faith in Jesus Christ is active.  Observable good deeds are the evidence that we have truly been saved.  Faith without works is dead.Earl Kelly in his book – A primer for Christian living – wrote: "You believe that Christ is the Lord of your life. Good! What do you do that you would not do if you did not believe it? You believe that Christ came to save sinners. That's wonderful. What effect does that have on your actions?  You believe in the judgment – but does it compel you to resist temptation?  You believe you are saved – but be honest with yourself, and ask yourself what difference it would make in your conduct if you stopped believing it. Someone once asked – Do our lips and our lives agree? That is a compelling question.So what does faith look like in our lives?• It is seen in the person who continues to praise God in spite of a devastating diagnosis.• It is seen in those who make the tough decision to put God first even if it means missing out on some of the things others do.• It is seen in the person who continues to love a person even though they have been repeatedly unkind.• It is seen in those who give what they have to alleviate the needs of others rather than indulge ourselves• It is seen in the person who refuses to give in to anxiety because of their trust God's wisdom and timing.• It is seen in those who do what is right even though everyone else is doing what is wrong.Real faith – what does it look like?• Is not just something you say• Is not just something you feel – not just emotions• Is not just something you think• Real faith is not just something you believe• Real faith is something you do - It's not passive.  It's active.  It's a commitment.2 Corinthians 13:5 – “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.”Today's Challenge: Take action to make your faith visible. Live it out in public. Since Jesus was not ashamed to go to the cross, we cannot be ashamed to live for him. We are not saved because of our good works, but we do good works because we are saved. Let your light shine for Jesus today. Discussion Questions:Why can't our faith be quiet and private? Why does it have to be visible?Are we saved by doing good works?Why does James place so much emphasis on works and actions?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.” (Proverbs 25:28)In Solomon's time, a city depended on strong fortifications and gates, with great walls surrounding it, to protected it from foreign armies. If the gates and walls were broken down, a city was totally exposed to the assault of any enemy that wished to plunder or conquer it. If a city did not invest sufficiently in these means of protection, it could easily be captured.Solomon said, a man without rule of his spirit is exposed and vulnerable like a defenseless city. His spirit yields to sin with very little temptation. He is helpless, hopeless, and at the mercy of his enemies.Galatians chapter 5 tells us that self-control is one of the fruit of the Spirit. It's one of the ongoing visible evidences that the spirit of God lives within us. Self-control is an inner strength. For the follower of Jesus, it is a God-given ability to choose what is right, to resist temptation, and to make choices in the moment that honor the Lord.Almost every failure to be Christ like can be traced to a lack of self-control, but, on the other hand, almost every success at being Christ like can be attributed to the power of self-control. So how can we exercise self-control?If the problem is our sinful desires, then we need a greater desire – a right desire – to rule our hearts.Self-control comes from a desire to love and honor and glorify God above any thing else – he is our highest love and greatest desire. A right heart and right desires come from a surrendered life to Christ.We need God's strength. We need the Spirit of God. Nothing less than the Spirit of God can give us the strength that we need to fight the battle – the spiritual battle – the lifelong conflict between flesh and Spirit. You cannot fight this fight on your own, in your own strength. You do not have the strength within yourself to do it; and so we need to be turning to God in acknowledgment of our own weakness, and in dependence upon him for his strengtheningWe need to fight. We need to be engaged in the battle. We need to remember that being dependent on the Holy Spirit does not exclude discipline. We need to take seriously our role in turning away from sin and resisting temptation.Today's Challenge: Choose to walk in the fruit of the Holy Spirit. Choose to exercise self-control. If there is an area of sin or weakness, stop right now and surrender it to the lordship of Jesus Christ. Ask God for strength to honor him in all you do.Discussion Questions:Why is consistent self-control such a struggle?How does the Holy Spirit enable us to exercise self-control?In which area of you life would you like to exercise more self-control?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free…” (Galatians 5:1)Here is a powerful truth: We are free from the power of sin. It has been broken. It was broken at the cross.Since we still struggle with sin, we sometimes have hard time believing we have been set free from the power of sin. We say things like “I can't help it! I've always been this way. I tried to stop, there's nothing I can do about it. This is just the way I am.”Jesus' death and resurrection have set us free from the power of sin, but how can we live free in our daily lives? How can we find ongoing freedom from addictions, unhealthy habits, fear, uncontrolled anger, our past, and more? The answer is found in truth. There is no freedom apart from walking in God's truth.“Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.  Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)I know there are some of you who have heard the lies of Satan, telling you that you will never be free. You will never be free from your bitterness. You will never be free from guilt and shame. You will never be free from you lust. You will never be free from your anger. Remember, the devil is a liar.Jesus said freedom is connected to truth. We must learn to abide in truth.My view of truth will determine my value of truth.  If I hold the Bible in a high view, if I have a high view of scripture and believe it to be the authoritative word of God, than I'll take it seriously. This book it's truth has the power to change my life.  The first few words of Hebrews 4:12 in the New Living translation say this “The word of God is full of living power.”  As I absorb it and take it into my life it has the power to change me.  So if I'm going to be free I've got to first receive the truth of God then abide in truth.In 8:31, Jesus says, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine.” The mark of genuine faith is not just mental or verbal profession that you believe in Christ. We must learn to submit to truth.You can receive the truth. You can abide in truth. But freedom is found when we submit to truth…when we apply it to our lies. The best way to submit to truth is in community - confessions this week. “Here's where I struggle…”  James 5:16 “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”  Why confess? Our struggles thrive in secret…in the darkeness. Sin, the secret of sin, keeps us isolated.  Forgiveness comes from God, but it's through community that God brings us freedom.  This is how we find freedom in your lives. We receive, God's truth. We abide in his Word, and we submit to truth. Apart from truth we can't find freedom.Today's Challenge: Think of an area of your life in which you are struggling to live in freedom. Discover what God's word has to say about it. Ask God to help you to submit to his word and begin to walk in freedom.Discussion Questions:Why is truth connected with finding freedom?What role does scripture play in you living in daily freedom?Why do people neglect the scriptures?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began.” (2 Timothy 1:9 NKJV)God's purpose for your life is not about you.We exist for God; He does not exist for us. God loves doing things for His people, but the rea­son we get up in the morning is to fulfill His purpose for our lives, not merely to ask Him to bless our purpose for our lives.  Until we understand that we exist for Him, we will never know our purpose for being.“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth…all things were created through him and for him.” (Colossians 1:16 ESV)The purpose for your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's greater than your family, your career, and your ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God.  You were born by his purpose and for his purpose.The reason the search for the purpose of life has been such a struggle is because we typically begin at the wrong starting point - ourselves.  We ask self-centered questions like: What do I want to be? What should I do with my life? What are my goals, my ambitions, and my dreams for my future?Being successful and fulfilling your life's purpose are not the same issue. You can reach all your personal goals, and become a huge success by the world's standards, and still miss the purposes for which God created you.God's purpose for your life is mostly about what He is doing in you.“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23)God is more concerned with who you are in Christ, than what you do for Christ.Being precedes doing. God's purpose for your life is to do the good works God has prepared for you.“For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)You were put on earth to make a contribution. You are not here to just consume resources - to eat, breath, and take up space. God designed you to make a difference with your life. You were created to serve God. When you do these “good works” you are actually serving God.God's purpose - faithfulness where you are right now. When you don't know what to do…do what you know to do.  Do what is in front of you.Your purpose life's purpose is not just one thing - it is a series of things. Wherever you are in life make sure it reflects Jesus.  You will never stop seeking God's purpose.Today's Challenge: Remember these three truths: God's purpose for your life begins with God, not you. Second, his purpose is about what he is doing in you to make you like Jesus. Third, your purpose is to do the good works God has prepared for you.Discussion Questions:Why do you think so many people struggle with finding their God-given purpose?Do you know what your purpose/purposes is?How can people determine their purpose?Recommended Resource: Discover Your True Self: How to Silence the Lies of Your Past and Actually Experience Who God Says You Are by Chip IngramVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick

"When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:13-16)This is the most important question you will ever be asked. It's a personal question, with eternal implications… “Who is Jesus?”This is so important because to be almost right about Jesus is to be totally wrong.  Why? Because we cannot be saved by good opinions about Jesus. We are not saved because we like Jesus and have a good feeling about him. We are not saved because we like his moral teaching about loving one another. That is not enough. Who is Jesus:1. Jesus is God“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. 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 1:1,2, 14)2. Jesus is our Savior"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.” (Matthew 1:21)3. Jesus is our Lord“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)Who is Jesus Christ? This is the most important question you will ever be asked. A good man? A great teacher? A revolutionary leader? Or is he the Christ, the Son of the Living God?  Who was he? Who is he? Your eternal destiny hangs on your answer. May God open your eyes to see Jesus as the son of God. May you have the courage today to put your faith in him and trust him as the savior of your soul.Today's Challenge: Respond to the truth about Jesus. Our response must be confession, repentance, surrender, and worship. And today, ask someone around you if they have made a decision about Jesus.Discussion Questions:Why is the identity of Jesus so important?Why does it matter what we believe? Isn't it important to just believe something?What does it mean for Jesus to be the "Lord" of your life?Recommended Resource: Who is this Man: The Unpredictable Impact of the Inescapable Jesus by John OrtbergVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.  Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2)Paul is describing God's change process that occurs in the lives of believers.  This is what occurs after salvation.  Many people think it happens the other way around!As we grow in Christ, bible knowledge is not enough.  Jesus is concerned about transformation.  Here's how it happens…Change begins on the inside.The word “transformed” is related to the word “metamorphosis.”  We all remember being in school and learning the process of metamorphosis that occurs when a caterpillar becomes a butterfly or a tadpole becomes a frog.  It's a gradual change on the inside that produces a todal transformation on the outside.  When a caterpillar has been changed into a butterfly, it becomes what God always intended it to be.1 John 3:2 – “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known…”  John is talking about our future when we are with the Lord in Heaven, but it is also true in this life.  God is in the transformation business!Change is a process.All of us tonight are works-in-progress.  We are not finished.  We are not glorified.  We are not perfect.  We are not completed.  We are all under construction.  Construction sites are noisy and messy.  Is your life noisy and messy?  Sometimes it's hard to image what the final outcome will be.  We are responsible though, to cooperate with the Holy Spirit.  God's work in our lives is usually a steady, lifelong progress toward godliness.  But we are responsible to discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness.Change happens as our minds are renewed with the Word of God. It's only here that our thinking begins to changeToday's Challenge: Identify an area of your life God is wanting to change. The Holy Spirit is so faithful, I'm sure you already know which area he wants to work in. Surrender, cooperate, allow God to do his work. All we need is on the other side of surrounding our lives to God.Discussion Questions:Why does God change us from the inside out?What area of your life is God working to change?Do you have a story of how God has changed you?Recommended Resource: The Me I Want to Be: Becoming God's Best Version of You by John OrtbergVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

"You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.” (Psalm 63:1-3)How many times has it taken a crisis to bring us to our knees in prayer?  When we are pushed to the brink.  When our back is to the wall.  When all the escape routes are closed.  It seems that then and only then do many people call on God for help.  Abraham Lincoln – “I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go.Being desperate for God is a state of knowing that you need him so much in your life.  I am desperate for his presence.  I am desperate for his Holy Spirit.  I am desperate for his anointing on my life.  I am desperate for his favor.It's the lack of a sense of desperation for God that is so deadly. If we don't feel desperate for God, we don't tend to cry out to him.Every day you and I are going to face things that drain us.  They are things that attack our faith.  They are circumstances that drain us, they empty out our joy and our peace.  You are going to face distractions and disappointments.  You are going to have conflicts at work and conflicts at home.  You are going to have problems and pressures.  You will face frustrations and fears and failures and fatigue.  Someone said, “yes…that pretty much describes my life right now!”If we are not very careful, the difficult circumstances of life will drain us.  We lose our spiritual vitality.  Our passion begins to diminish.  Before long we find that quite honestly, our spiritual tank is empty.  Today's Challenge: Let's pursue God with desperation. Nothing else in this world will satisfy. If you heart is cold towards God. Begin to pursue him. Begin to draw close to him. Ask him to rekindle the fire in your heart for God and his purpose. We don't have to wait for a crisis to become desperate for God.Discussion Questions:Why do people often wait until a crisis to reach out to God?How can we maintain a healthy desperation for God?What spiritual growth would happen in our lives is we earnestly sought after God?Recommended Resource: Pursuit of God by A.W. TozerVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” (John 17:20-21)The Bible is filled with a focus on unity.  God brings us together, in all of our brokenness, in all of our differences and makes us one people….one body.  Like a puzzle of 1000 pieces can create a beautiful picture, so together we reflect the beautiful picture of Christ to our world.When we come together with all of conflict, broken relationships, political division, dysfunctional families, and fractured communities…when we come together in unity it is a sign to the world that God is a work here.What disunity does to a church…..Disunity brings confusion to our fellowship.  It clouds our witness to the community.  It brings a reproach upon the witness of Jesus.  It brings discouragement and despair to a congregation.  Satan knows that if he can divide us, it will keep us from being healthy and it will keep us from reaching people for Christ.A word of caution:  Unity is not our highest goal or ultimate value:  Obeying God is our ultimate goal.  People say:  can't we all just get along?  It doesn't' matter what you believe as long as we love each other.When God's word calls us to unity it doesn't mean there are no differences.  This doesn't mean there are no disagreements.  This doesn't mean there is no conflict.  Unity doesn't mean leaders are dictators and do whatever they want without accountability.  This doesn't mean we forget doctrine and let anything go in the church.  It means we recognize that as the Father and Son are One in agreement of purpose and mission we are to exemplify that unity.  Because we are in Christ there is genuine love.  We let petty differences go.  We forgive, we don't hold grudges.  We prefer one another.  We serve one another.  We meet needs.  We agree on why we exist as a church and focus on that purpose of bringing lost people into the kingdom of God.  When there is this kind of unity the world will know something supernatural is occurring here.  It's a sign that God is present.  The world is hungry for this kind of love and unity.  I believe you are too. Let's let God's Word lead the way. Let's allow the Holy Spirit to fill our lives just like the day of Pentecost when the church was in one mind and one accord. If we will we can fulfill the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.Today's Challenge: If you have been offended, give that offense to Jesus. Forgive as he has forgiven you. Unite together with other believers. Help protect the unity of the church. Let's pray together for God's presence and power.Discussion Questions:Why do you think unity was Jesus' last prayer request?Why does Satan try so hard to divide us?What role does God's Word and doctrine play in protecting unity in the church?Recommended Resource: The Bait of Satan by John BevereVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.  The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and it itself set on fire by hell.” (James 3:5-6)There may not be an area of your life and mine that we need wisdom more, than in the area of our words.  Wisdom in what we say and how we say it.James uses the word tongue, talking about our physical tongue in relation to the words we say.  Think about the influence of our words.When I was a kid people used to say “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”  It sounds brave, but we have learn this is completely untrue.  Words shape and define our lives. What others say to us and what we say to others can last a long time, for good or for evil.  The casual sarcastic or critical remark can inflict a lasting injury on another person. The well-timed encouragement or compliment can inspire someone for the rest of their life.Talking is something we all do…we do it a lot.  There are more ways to communicate today than ever before: speaking, writing, texting, emailing, social media.Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”Psalm 14:3 – “Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”My words reveal the condition of my heartMy words indicate how healthy or unhealthy I am spiritually.  If you go to the doctor for physical, one of the things he/she will do is ask you to stick out your tongue.  Because the tongue is an indicator.  The nurse will put a thermometer under your tongue – it is a barometer of your physical health.  The scripture teaches us the same thing is true spiritually.Jesus said in Luke 6:45 – “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”Our words are like a bucket of water dipped into a well.  If there is fresh water down deep, that's what comes out.  If what is below is stagnant, polluted, and diseased that is what will come out.  In other words, “If the heart is clean, the words are clean.”  If the heart is contaminated, our words will expose it.Quote – Charles Spurgeon – “More of a man is seen in his words than in anything else belonging to him; you may look into his face and be mistaken, you may visit his house and not discover him, you may scan his business and misunderstand him; but I you hear his daily conversation you shall soon know him.”Today's Challenge: Pray this prayer found in the book of Psalms ,”… May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord.” Today choose to speak words of life to those around you.Discussion Questions:Why are words so powerful and why do they impact us in such a big way?In what areas do you struggle with your words, speech, or conversation?Describe how you could be more positive and uplifting with your words. Recommended Resource: The Power of Your Words by Robert MorrisVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

"What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?" (Matthew 16:26)If we take this verse at face value, and we should, we learn here that “the value of a soul” is worth more than “the whole world.” Yet many people are using all their time, talents and energy to accumulate wealth and possessions and they place no value whatsoever on their soul. It has been said that there are only two things that last: the Word of God and the souls of men. This is because, like God's Word, the soul is an imperishable thing. Imagine that you could own every possession on earth and ask yourself, would you be satisfied? We see it all the time in the media; the richest celebrities are still not content with all the wealth they have. Why is that? Without Christ, the condition of our souls is lost and we cannot find satisfaction in the temporary things of this world.Who owns your life? This is a defining question for the disciple of Jesus. He not only wants to be our Savior, he wants to be our Lord. Jesus must be our single pursuit. Nothing matters more than Jesus. Nothing is of greater value. Nothing is of higher worth. We seek after the things this world offers thinking it will satisfy, thinking they will make us happy, but it only produces more seeking and more searching. In the end it leaves us empty. But when we seek Jesus we find everything we need. Jesus said in Matthew 6:33 - “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”The longing of your heart will only be met in Christ. It's in Jesus that your emptiness is filled. It's in Jesus that you despair turns to hope. It's in our Savior that our hunger is satisfied. Why would we seek after all this world has to offer only to lose our soul? It's a tragedy and it describes the life so many are living today. I suppose it all comes down to what we love. Because what we love, that's what we seek after. When we are in love with Jesus we are captivated and motivated by this love.  Experiencing the love of Jesus has changed everything in our lives. It changes our desires, our pursuits, and our goals and ambitions. It's here that God's will become our will. Today's Challenge: In prayer, examine your life. Ask God to reveal what you have been living for. Is Christ your passion? Is Jesus your first-love. Allow God's Spirit to speak to your heart and respond accordingly.Discussion Questions:Why is the soul so valuable?Why do you think people ignore the value of the soul?Describe how Jesus satisfies our deepest desires and longings.Recommended Resource: Don't Waste Your Life by John PiperVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)One of the big things that keeps Christians from living in the freedom Jesus provides is our past…our old life. There is history we have a hard time letting go of.We all have a “past.” There are sins, mistakes, poor choices, and failures in our story. The guilt and shame of our past can keep us from the life Jesus has for us. Through the power of God we put the past behind us and walk forward in God's freedom. Our biggest sins are not too big for God's grace.When Paul talks about forgetting he is telling us that we can't and must not live in the past.  What happened in the past is past and we must keep going forward. His past does not define him. He will not let the past keep him from what God has ahead of him.The past must be put behind us because…We have a tendency to obsess about the past.We may know that God has forgiven us, but we have a difficult time forgiving ourselves. Psalm 38:4 - “My guilt has overwhelmed me. It's overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.”How we deal with the painful times of the past will determine how we live in the present.  We must learn from the pain and then move on.  What God has forgiven should never be taken as a burden again.Jesus has forgiven our past.1 John 1:9 - “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”  This is one of the most powerful verses in the whole Bible.Remember this…You cannot change your past, but Christ can change your future. There is so much in our past: - Times when we've been rejected by friends.- Losses we've experienced.- Sins we've committed.- People we've hurt and people who have hurt us.- Dreams that have been dashed. Wrong paths we've taken.Jesus blood covers them all.Today's Challenge: Let's surrender the past to Jesus. Refuse to let it paralyze you and keep you from the future God has for you. Accept Paul's words…let go of the past and press forward to what God still has planned for you.Discussion Questions:Why does Paul say in Philippians 3:13-14 that we need to "forget the past?"Do you struggle with letting go of your past?What steps can you take to press forward to what God has in store for you?Recommended Resource: Failing Forward: Turning Past Mistakes into Stepping Stones by John MaxwellVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'” (2 Corinthians 12:8-9)We believe God answers every prayer.  Scripture teaches us to call on Him and He will answer.  But sometimes in His wisdom and purpose, His answer to us is “No.”  or “Not yet.”  We never want to hear this answer, but we should see God's denial as an opportunity to trust Him more.  Our Heavenly Father loves us deeply, and wants what is best for our lives.Every parent makes decision about what is best for your children.  I've heard my share of Daddy, daddy, daddy, can I have?  Can we have?  Often times what is best for my children is no.  What do you do when you've asked for a good thing, when you pray with the right motive and God says no?  What do you do when you have been overruled?  You've prayed and you've prayed and you've prayed and God says no.The Apostle Paul prayed for God to remove his "thorn in the flesh" but God said no. He said his grace was sufficient for Paul's life. Sufficient = ENOUGH.  God's grace is enough.  You have enough to get through this.  Enough strength.  Enough wisdom.  Enough peace.   Enough joy.  Enough power.Even when the answer is no, God is still at work in our lives. Sometimes God responds with a no answer to our prayer to teach us to trust him or to help us grow.Sometimes, in prayer, What you are asking for is good.  It's honorable.  Your motives are right.  But it simply is not God's will.  Two important truths about God's denial:1.When God says no, we recognize that He is our sovereign Lord. What we learn from the biblical examples is that God never stops being God.2.When God says no, we trust He has a better plan, and we patiently wait for it.Today's Challenge:  My response when God says no…I will acknowledge God's faithful presence.I will affirm his power in every situationI will accept God's purpose in my life.Discussion Questions:Why do you think God sometimes says "no" to our prayers?Can you tell of a story when God said no?What should our response be when God says no?Recommended Resource: The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on PrayerVisit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 6:14-15)Why is forgiveness necessary?  Why does God make a big deal about forgiveness?•Forgiveness releases us from the offense.  Unforgiveness is a burden.  I think we all know what it feels like.  But forgiveness is freedom.  Where there was once sorrow, heaviness, and bitterness, is now comfort and peace.  When we forgive we are release from the bondage.  To me, forgiveness is like God opening the prison door and allowing us to walk away and leave it all behind.Forgiveness not only releases us physically and emotionally, it also releases us spiritually.  One of the greatest barriers to effective prayer and a healthy spiritual life is an unforgiving heart.Quote:  D.L. Moody – “I believe unforgiveness is keeping more people from having power with God than any other thing – they are not willing to cultivate a spirit of forgiveness.  •You are never more like Jesus than when you forgive those who have sinned against you.The Scripture teaches us that we forgive, just as God has forgiven us.  Forgiveness gives us the opportunity to give others what God has given us.Today's challenge….sincerely reflect on these questions…•Am I up to date on my forgiving? •Am I holding a grudge against anyone? •Do I harbor any bitterness against any person?•Have I forgiven those who have hurt me deeply?As we offer forgiveness to others, it releases us from the burden and weight of bitterness and unforgiveness. It's here that we find freedom.Discussion Questions:Why is offering forgiveness to others so difficult?What happens in our own lives when we forgive others?Do you have a story to share in which God moved you to forgive someone?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

We live in a time where the prevailing message is that  “All religions are equally valid and basically teach the same thing.”  This way of thinking has swept our culture like a storm.Americans love options.  We live in a culture where there are endless options in just about every area of life.  800 channels of TV.   The average supermarket stocks nearly 40,000 different items.  Malls with dozens of stores.  We love options!  It just seems natural that there would be options in the spiritual arena as well.  Many people think of Christianity as just one more option on the spiritual buffet table of life."I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). Why can't people just believe whatever they want to believe, as long as they are sincere?  I've heard parents say, “It doesn't matter to me what my kids believe, as long as they believe something.”   Sincerity is great.  No one questions sincerity.  But sincerity, or the lack of it, has nothing to do with determining truth.  In other words, we can be sincerely right or be sincerely wrong.  In John 14:6 Jesus said,..I am the way - Jesus doesn't say he is A way, he says he is THE way.  Jesus didn't say he knew the way.  Jesus does not create a path for us to hike.  He is not clearing the brush and making a path visible.  He is saying…He is the way!  We are not saved by a principle or a force, but by a person.2. I am the truth - Truth is the scarcest commodity in the world.  We hear people say, “That might be true for you, but it's not for me.” People today don't seem to be all that interested in truth.  But without the clarity and consistency of moral absolute truth, we are reduced to doing what seems right, what feels good, what produces the least resistance, and what provides the greatest personal fulfillment.Jesus rises up above our cultural confusion and shouts out, “I am the truth!”  78 times in the Gospels it is record that Jesus said, “I tell you the truth…”  3. I am the life - All throughout the Gospel of John the principle of spiritual vitality is described for us.  Without Jesus all we have is death – separation from God.  Because Jesus died for us, and rose again to new life – we too can live.  We now can have a relationship with God.  In the end, it doesn't matter how nice or moral a person is because there is not enough niceness or morality to pay for our rejection of God. Either we must be rejected or we turn to Jesus who was rejected for us. This is the heart of the gospel. Jesus lays down his very own life for those who reject him, for his enemies, for those who don't believe in him, and he offers them forgiveness. Amazing!Yes, Jesus is the only way to God. He is the way, the truth and the life.Today's challenge: In prayer, reaffirm your faith in Jesus as the only door to a relationship with God.Discussion Questions:Why do people struggle with the belief that Jesus is the only way to God?What does it mean that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life?Why is this topic so important?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

Book: "Stop Dating the Church: Fall in Love with the Family of God" by Sam HarrisThe church has a divine creation.  Some say, “The church was man's idea.”  No, that's not biblical.  The church was God's idea. Scripture - Jesus said in   “I will build my church, and the gates of hell will not overcome it.” (Matthew 16:18)The NT describes the church as:•The Bride of Christ (loves his bride, gave his life for his bride, is coming back for his bride)•The Body of Christ (an image we all understand – each part is important)•Family of God (we belong to each other)Still with all the teaching we have in the NT concerning the church, there are still many people today who have become disillusioned with the church.  For many different reasons, they have given up.  They still believe in Jesus and perhaps they are still trying to have a relationship with God, but they have been unable to commit to a local church.God never intended the church to be an event.  Yes we gather for worship, teaching, encouragement, equipping, to serve, etc.  But the church is the people of God.  You are the church.  We don't go to church, we are the church.The gathering to worship with other believers is irreplaceable.  It cannot be substituted with a great devotional time, a lively bible study with friends, a meditative nature hike, or a live TV church service.When the church is together for worship and hears God's Word preached, nourishment and encouragement occur that can't happen anywhere else.  Our corporate worship edifies and strengthens us and glorifies God in ways that nothing else can.We can't love Jesus, and not love what he loves. He loves His church.Today's challenge: Embrace the local church. Be a part. Be a supporter. Be a champion for it. It's not perfect, but it is God's idea.Discussion Questions:Why is being a part of a local church so important?Is it okay to date the church, or is it vital to make a commitment?Why do many people struggle to make the church an important part of their life?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

The story of PolycarpMatthew 16:24 - Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Without a doubt, we would include this verse in our collection of “hard sayings of Christ.” But we can't ignore the truth that Jesus is calling us to a denial of our fleshly desire, a death to our old life, and a commitment to follow.Christians view the cross as a cherished symbol of atonement, forgiveness, grace, and love. But in Jesus' day, the cross represented nothing but torturous death. Because the Romans forced convicted criminals to carry their own crosses to the place of crucifixion, bearing a cross meant carrying their own execution device while facing ridicule along the way to death.When Jesus says, “Take up your cross and follow Me” he means being willing to die in order to follow Jesus. This is called “dying to self.” It's a call to absolute surrender. To deny yourself is not the giving up of things but the giving up of yourself wholly and completely to the Lord Jesus.What do we gain for all of this denial and surrender? What does Christ offer us? He offers us himself. We must see that while forgiveness, grace, and mercy are tremendous blessings, the greatest prize we gain is Jesus himself. There is nothing this world offers that compares with knowing Christ.  Polycarp was willing to give his all…and he did. Our surrender to Christ may not require the actual laying down of our physical life, but Jesus will call us to make a complete commitment of our life to follow him.Discussion Questions:Why does Jesus call us to a "death to self?"In what areas of life are we to deny ourselves?What does it mean to follow Jesus?Visit the website: 5MinuteDiscipleship.comFollow on social:Facebook.com/5minutediscipleshipInstagram.com/5minutediscipleshipClick here to learn how you can start your own podcast.

On today’s episode, we’re chatting with Trillia Newbell about engaging culture wisely as followers of Christ, filtering everything we’re intaking through the truths of Scripture. Trillia is a third-time guest on Journeywomen, but if you don’t know her already, she is a wife, mom, author, and an Acquisitions Editor at Moody Publishers. We pray that this conversation encourages you to saturate yourself in God’s Word and ask him for wisdom as you seek to engage with the world around you for the glory of God.   CONNECT WITH TRILLIA Website  Instagram Facebook    SCRIPTURE REFERENCES “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” James 1:19 “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.” Ephesians 4:15-16 “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world.” John 17:17-18 “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Mark 12:31   DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Why is it important to learn to wisely navigate culture instead of completely disengaging from it? What are some practical ways or specific areas where you might be able to step in and impact your culture for the glory of God? How can you lean more fully on Jesus as you seek to speak the truth in love and engage the culture around you? How does knowing that Jesus is interceding for you change how you speak, pray, and live? What are you going to do or implement as a result of what you’ve learned this week?   FULL SHOW NOTES   SPONSORS Dwell is an audio Bible app with a mission to transform the way you experience Scripture. Dwell is generously giving our listeners 33% off an annual subscription by going to dwellapp.io/journeywomen. August 8th is the inaugural LifeWay Women Live Simulcast where you can experience a full day of practical study with some of your favorite Lifeway authors.  Register here and use the code JOURNEYWOMEN during checkout to get $5 off the $20 individual registration!  Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service helping you save time and money. For a free 2 week trial go to prepdish.com/journey.    FOR MORE Subscribe: iTunes | Android Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook Support the podcast by writing a review *Affiliate links used are used where appropriate. Thank you for supporting the products that support Journeywomen!

Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “ ‘Almost Thou PersuadestMe,’ ” pp. 433–438, in The Acts of the Apostles.The essence of the Christian life is a relationship with Jesus that is sorich and full that we long to share it. As important as correct doctrineis, it cannot substitute for a life transformed by grace and changed bylove. Ellen G. White makes it plain when she states: “The Saviour knewthat no argument, however logical, would melt hard hearts or breakthrough the crust of worldliness and selfishness. He knew that Hisdisciples must receive the heavenly endowment; that the gospel wouldbe effective only as it was proclaimed by hearts made warm and lipsmade eloquent by a living knowledge of Him who is the way, the truth,and the life.”—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 31. In the book The Desireof Ages, she adds this powerful thought: “The wonderful love of Christwill melt and subdue hearts, when the mere reiteration of doctrineswould accomplish nothing.”—Page 826.There are those who have the idea that giving their personal testi-mony is about trying to convince others of the truths they have discov-ered in the Word of God. Although it is important at the appropriatetime to share the truths of God’s Word, our personal testimony hasmuch more to do with the freedom from guilt, the peace, the mercy, theforgiveness, and the strength, hope, and joy we have found in the giftof eternal life Jesus so freely offers.Discussion Questions: Why do you think our personal testimony is so powerful ininfluencing others? How have the testimonies of others impactedyou and your own experience? In class, talk about your answer to Wednesday’s final question.Why is a daily experience with the Lord so important, not just toour witness but to our own personal faith, as well? Of course, a powerful testimony can be an effective witness. Atthe same time, why is a godly life such an important part of ourwitness? Share your personal testimony with the class. Remember thatyou are sharing what Christ has done for you and what He meansto you. What difference does Jesus make in your life?

Further Thought: Read Ellen G. White, “What to Do With Doubt?”pp. 105–113, in Steps to Christ. Read section 8 in the document“Methods of Bible Study,” which can be found at http://www.adventistbiblicalresearch.org/materials/bible-interpretation-hermeneutics/methods-bible-study.In the Bible are many mysteries that finite human beings find diffi-cult to comprehend and that are too deep for us to explain fully. This iswhy we need a humble mind, and should be willing to learn prayerfullyfrom Scripture. Faithfulness to Scripture allows the biblical text—eventhough its meaning goes against our grain—to say what it actually says.Faithfulness to Scripture will respect the text rather than alter the text (yes,some actually change the texts themselves) or evade its true meaning.“When the word of God is opened without reverence and withoutprayer; when the thoughts and affections are not fixed upon God, orin harmony with His will, the mind is clouded with doubts; and in thevery study of the Bible, skepticism strengthens. The enemy takes con-trol of the thoughts, and he suggests interpretations that are not correct.Whenever men are not in word and deed seeking to be in harmony withGod, then, however learned they may be, they are liable to err in theirunderstanding of Scripture, and it is not safe to trust to their explana-tions. Those who look to the Scriptures to find discrepancies, have notspiritual insight. With distorted vision they will see many causes fordoubt and unbelief in things that are really plain and simple.”—EllenG. White, Steps to Christ, pp. 110, 111.Discussion Questions: Why are the attitudes toward the Bible that we discussed thisweek so foundational for a proper understanding of Scripture?What other attitudes toward the Bible do you believe are crucialin helping you better understand it? Why should we not be surprised to find things in the Bible thatare hard to explain and understand? After all, how many things ofthe natural world itself are at times hard to understand? To thisday, for instance, water (water!) is filled with mysteries. As Adventists, how can we answer the question of Luke 23:43,where (according to most translations) Jesus is telling the thiefthat he will be in heaven with Jesus on that day? What are honestways to respond? How, for instance, can texts such as John 20:17,Ecclesiastes 9:5, and 1 Corinthians 15:16–20 help us understandthe issue in question here?

Sermon Summary 26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be.30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. 39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” Mary's Song of Praise: The Magnificat 46 And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord,47     and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.     For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me,     and holy is his name. In this week’s message, Pastor Chris encouraged us to mirror Mary in this Christmas season. He urged us to learn from Mary as she responded to God’s call on her life. By the world’s standards, Mary had nothing. She was a 12-14 year old girl in small town with no social status. However, God said that she was perfect. At Christmas, we are invited to walk the joy-filled road of Mary.  5 Thoughts on how to live in light of this good new of great joy – How did Mary respond? Mary received – Luke 1:28-30 She received a word, plan, and vision for her life from God. Like us, Mary surely had a plan for her own life, but God showed up in a divine encounter and entrusted her with His very own son. There is a tension, because often we have a plan for life until God intervenes and invites us to align with His vision. Mary was positioned for such an encounter and for the receiving of grace. It is okay to audit, to weigh, and to ponder God’s calling on your life. Mary was greatly troubled and tried to discern what kind of greeting this was. “I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” Genesis 3:15 “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14 Mary would have contemplated the prophecies of the Old Testament: There is closed-minded doubt and open-minded doubt. Closed-minded doubt responds in unbelief, while open-minded doubt says “help me in my unbelief”. The Angel says, “do not fear”, not that there is nothing to fear. Mary recognized she didn’t need to fear because she found favor (grace). When we live this way, it breaks anxiety. In verse 38, Mary responds with “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Mary wondered. – Luke 1:31-38 Genuine Christianity displays humility. It says, “I can’t do this alone” and chooses to partner with God. Pastor Chris called this “grounded obedience”.  Mary believed in, not just about.  Mary Surrendered and Believed. – Luke 1:39-45 Mary’s Song of Praise: The Magnificat.  When surrender and belief come together, it produces celebration.  To magnify is to make big. Whatever we magnify will control us. Mary Celebrated. – Luke 1: 46-49 What do you think about? Whatever it is will control you. Mary pondered the promises of God. When we follow God, He lets us in on what He is doing. Mary treasured the things of the Lord. Mary Pondered. – Luke 2:19, Luke 2:51   Discussion Questions Why do you think God chose Mary for this task? Do you think Jesus learned how to serve and surrender from his mom?   Response Questions What happens to Mary is very personal, but it’s also for us today. How do you think this story is for you? Whose plan or vision are you fulfilling over your life? Would you say you are walking on God’s road or your own road? What have you been magnifying in your life? 

On today’s episode of the Journeywomen podcast, I’m chatting with Dr. Michael Haykin about church history! Dr. Haykin is the chair and professor of Church History at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, KY and Director of the Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies.   DR.HAYKIN’S RESOURCES The Journal of Esther Edwards Burr, 1754-1757 Fierce Convictions: The Extraordinary Life of Hannah More by Karen Swallow Prior Susie: The Life and Legacy of Susannah Spurgeon by Ray Rhodes Reformation Women: Sixteenth-Century Figures Who Shaped Christianity's Rebirth by Rebecca VanDoodewaard Eight Women of Faith by Dr. Michael Haykin No Other Foundation: The Church Through Twenty Centuries by Jeremy C. Jackson Reformation Heritage Books for Children by Simonetta Carr Empowered: How God Shaped 11 Women's Lives by Catherine Parks   DR.HAYKIN’S SIMPLE JOYS History, libraries, book stores Spending time with his wife Spending time with his adult children     WOMEN TO LEARN ABOUT Esther Edwards Burr (1732-1758) Perpetua (Died 203) Monica mother of Augustine (332-387) Macrina (330-379) Julian of Norwich (1342-1416) Idelette Stordeur de Bure Calvin (1509-1549) Brilliana Harley (1598-1643) Anne Dutton (1692–1765) Anne Steele (1717–1778) Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784) Selina Hastings (1707-1791) Josephine Butler (1828-1906) Amy Carmichael (1867-1951) Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015) Henrietta Mears (1890-1963)   DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Why is it important to value church history? What is something you learned regarding church history? Identify an area of life where learning about history changed your view of the present? How is your view of the gospel strengthened by history? How has your view of the church been challenged by this episode? What are you going to do or implement as a result of what you’ve learned this week?   SPONSORSHIP DETAILS Marriage After God is led by Aaron and Jennifer Smith who have a new book out called Marriage After God. In their book they transparently share their journey from a marriage in crisis to a marriage built on Christ’s redemptive love. For 15% off your purchase at shop.marriageaftergod.com use the code JOURNEYWOMEN at checkout. Prep Dish is a healthy subscription-based meal planning service. All you need to do is sign up, and you’ll receive an email every week with a grocery list and instructions for prepping meals ahead of time. For a free 2-week trial, go to PrepDish.com/journey. Crossway's new book called Competing Spectacles by Tony Reinke helps us stop and consider what consequences the world's never-ending stream of digital images has on our minds. Reinke is the author of 12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You. Learn more about Competing Spectacles and find other resources at Crossway.org/Journeywomen2.   FOR MORE EPISODES OF JOURNEYWOMEN:   SUBSCRIBE Subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to the Journeywomen Podcast. On Android, click this podcast RSS feed link and select your podcast app. You may need to copy the link into your favorite podcast app (like Overcast or Stitcher).   WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other women on their journeys to glorify God find and utilize the podcast as a resource.   FOLLOW JOURNEYWOMEN Like/follow Journeywomen on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter for the latest updates.   *Affiliate links used are used where appropriate. Thank you for supporting the products that support Journeywomen!

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 26:39; John 10:14-18; John 15:1-5; Psalm 46:10-11If the miracle of Easter is the discovery that death is powerless over the kind of life Jesus brings, what can we learn from the way Jesus lives his life about how to best imitate him? Put more simply: how can we live...like Jesus? The answer, according to Jesus himself, is that we live wholly when we surrender completely. This week, we want to explore the apparent paradox of what Jesus says about surrender and do our best to uncover what a “life of surrender” might look like for us. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why do you think Jesus’s prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane is included in the Gospel stories about his arrest? What does it show us about him?How do you feel about the concept of “surrender”? What is appealing about it? What makes you nervous? Talk through the metaphor Jesus uses in John 10 about being the “good shepherd.” What does this metaphor teach us about Jesus? About ourselves? Why is “laying down [your] life” an important part of “shepherding”? How does the metaphor of the “vine and branches” in John 15 connect to this idea of surrender? What does it mean to “be a good branch”? How can we do this well? The Bible repeatedly insists that wholeness isn’t something we can create; instead, it’s a gift God gives. What does this teach us about God? Read Psalm 46:10-11. Where are you being challenged to “be still” in your life? What do you think it means to “know” that God is God?

SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; 2 Corinthians 7:8-12There are no perfect people; it's a truism we can all agree on. But unfortunately, it's not one we often live out: many of us work extremely hard to seem 'put together' in our public lives and even sometimes in our intimate relationships; we strive to look our best, even if that means hiding the struggles with which we most need help. This week, we want to talk about why accepting and safely sharing our own stories is a critical part of becoming healthy, as well as a crucial function of Christian community. We need to be a church where vulnerability is encouraged, humility is cherished, repentance is lovingly welcomed, and forgiveness abounds. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why do you think it sometimes seems easier to hide a mess instead of facing it? Do you think this is ultimately true?This week, we talked about 3 ways we can respond to other people’s messes: we can be overaccomodating, denying that it’s really a mess at all (unhelpful); we can be judgmental, blaming someone for how the mess happened (unhelpful); or we can acknowledge the mess that’s there and walk alongside someone as it gets put back together. Do you have experience with any of these responses, either as the person whose mess was in the open...or the person who responded to that mess? Do you ever confuse transparency about past struggles with vulnerability about current ones? How can you build relational routines into your life to help you avoid this mistake? How can you help build a culture in your friendships or your small group that can help with this? Where are you fighting forgiveness in your life (either giving it or receiving it)? Who can you share this with who might be able to walk with you as you are challenged in this?

Discussion Questions Why did God command Joshua to circumcise the Israelites? (Joshua 5:2; Gen 17:9-14; Exodus 12:43-49) Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and His people. What is God saying to His people in Deuteronomy 10:12-16, and […]

SCRIPTURE: Acts 9:32-11:18 (11:1-18)The persecution in Jerusalem continues to send the church further and further into the surrounding communities, ultimately having the opposite of its intended effect: as the disciples go on working miracles and sharing the story of Jesus, the reach of the church only grows! However, no aspect of the expansion of the early church is more important (or more contentious) than the growing conviction to include non-Jews or Gentiles in this “new Temple” of a covenant church family. This week, we will look at the story behind Peter’s declaration to no longer “call anything impure that God has made clean,” and how those words establish a worldwide ministry for the church that extends all the way to our own calling and mission here in Annapolis!DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why do you think the Holy Spirit pairs Peter’s vision with the story about Cornelius? What does Cornelius’s story add to Peter’s growing conviction to include Gentiles in the church?The vision of the sheet is repeated three times to Peter. Why do you think the text includes this detail? What can we learn from Peter’s behavior throughout this story? Why do you think the early church was resistant to including Gentiles at first? In what ways do we demonstrate a similar resistance today, and how can we learn from this story?The biggest theme in our study of the first half of Acts has been that God’s plan is bigger than anyone expects it to be...including the disciples! Have you ever been surprised by what God can do? Have you ever doubted God’s choice to use the church to accomplish his mission? Do you still doubt it? If not, what carried you through those doubts?What can we do, as a church family, to love and include others more boldly?

WEEK 1 // WHY CHURCH?Hebrews 10:19-25; Romans 15:1-13; Revelation 19:6-8SUMMARY:The church exists to celebrate Jesus, make and develop disciples, and share God’s love with others. But, in 2019, do we still really need to meet together in a building on Sundays to accomplish these goals? According to the leaders of the early church, the answer is yes! In letters to both Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians, the cases for gathering together are made separately, and in line with local customs...but both letters have one piece in common: the church exists for good. In other words, we aren’t here for ourselves: if we were, we could find everything this church provides, at a higher quality, somewhere else! Instead, we are here for one another...and for our neighbors. This part of our calling is unique; however, it also requires that we step into our roles instead of simply observing.DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why did you start going to church? What makes church important to you?Have the reasons you go to church changed over the years? What do you believe the church exists to do? Have you served in a church community before in a specific role? What role was it? Why did you step into this role, and what do you feel the value of that work might have been? What are some of the specific gifts or qualities you have that you have seen contribute to various roles or relationships in your life? How might those gifts or qualities serve others in our church community, or in other relationships?

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 28:18-20, Colossians 3:16-17, James 5:13-16SUMMARY: There are many elements of a traditional liturgical service that can seem strange to us, particularly readings from the Christian creeds, practicing public confession of sins, participating in corporate prayer, and even singing songs together. Why do we do these things? This week, we want to look at the Scriptural and historical reasons why many of the elements of Christian worship services exist. What we hope to find is a compelling story, beginning with Jesus’s closing instructions to His disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations [and baptize] them in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” and ending in a series of ritualized reminders of what we believe as Christians and why we believe it. In brief, we speak together in our services out of obedience: to the instructions of Christ, to the teachings of our spiritual ancestors, and to the wisdom of the early Christian church. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why are we sometimes bothered or even bored by traditional elements of a liturgical service, like responsive readings, confession, and communion?Have you ever been part of a church that practiced reading the Apostles’ or Nicene Creeds before? What are your reflections on that experience? In what ways was it valuable (or not so valuable) for you?Read through the Apostles’ Creed together as a group. Do you feel like you understand it? Are there parts of it that you have questions about? What can you do to investigate these questions this week?How do you feel about reciting a “confession” together in church? What do you think the goal of this practice is? How is it challenging for you?Do you sing in church? Why or why not? How do you feel about the practice of singing songs together? What do you think the best version of this practice would be? What are you usually hoping to find in a church service? How do your hopes line up with the practices incorporated in a traditional “liturgical” service? What about this disparity is challenging to or for you?

SCRIPTURE: Acts 13:16-33, 36-39BIG IDEA:In his first sermon in the town of Antioch, the apostle Paul begins his presentation of the Gospel of Jesus by reviewing the history of the Jewish people and their often frustrating relationship with God. He reminds the Jews in his audience about God’s faithfulness to them, and His ultimate promise to do everything necessary to restore the broken relationship between Himself and the people He created. Paul’s reminders about the past in that sermon initiate a long-standing tradition in Christian teaching and practice: the prioritization not of our own stories, but of the stories of our ancestors, whose moments of pridefulness and humility remind us of both God’s power to save us and His faithfulness to building a Church that is bigger than any of us alone. Liturgical practices in the history of the church serve as practical opportunities for us to slow down and remember: that we are and have always been loved by God, that God is in the midst of a redemptive project that is beyond our grasp, and that we are a part of something that God will not let go or abandon. As we participate in the traditional religious practices of our faith, we can feel a special comfort that can only come from these holy reminders. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:Why are we sometimes bothered or even bored by traditional elements of a liturgical service, like responsive readings, confession, or communion?What do you think the point of liturgically constructed services might be? On Sunday, Kenny talked about the “liturgical calendar,” which is designed to guide Christians through a large portion of the entire Bible every three years. What do you think of this traditional practice? Would you try (or have you ever tried) something similar? What were your experiences?As a Christian, in what ways do you feel connected to a Church that is bigger than Revolution? In what ways do you feel alienated or separate from that Church?What do you think Revolution’s role in the community of churches in Annapolis, in our country, or in the world ought to be? Are there particular elements of traditional liturgical services that you enjoy? Why?What do you want to be reminded of this Advent season? What lessons from your own past can help you have a more restful and grace-filled holiday this year?