Podcast appearances and mentions of Herbert Cooper

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THE SECRETS TO DAILY FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 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. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and HE WILL DO IT (NIV) Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT. (NIV) Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (NIV) 6 STEPS TO BEING SPIRIT LED INSTEAD OF FLESH LED Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (ESV) 1. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT STARTS FROM FREEDOM, NOT CONDEMNATION Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (ESV) 2. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT IS ABOUT SURRENDERING MORE, NOT STRIVING MORE Romans 8:3–4 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh BUT ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT. (ESV) 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from ONE DEGREE OF GLORY TO ANOTHER. For THIS COMES FROM the Lord who is the Spirit. (ESV) 3. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES RENEWING YOUR MIND Romans 8:5–6 For those who live according to the flesh set their MINDS on the things of the flesh, but those who LIVE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT set their MINDS on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the MIND on the flesh is death, but to set the MIND on the Spirit is life and peace. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 Instead, LET THE SPIRIT RENEW YOUR THOUGHTS AND ATTITUDES. (NLT) 4. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES CRUCIFYING YOUR FLESH Romans 8:7–8 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the FLESH cannot please God. (ESV) Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV) Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. (ESV) 5. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT REQUIRES LEARNING TO FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING Romans 8:9–14 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. 10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the SPIRIT GIVES LIFE because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also GIVE LIFE to your mortal bodies because of his SPIRIT who lives in you. 12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the SPIRIT you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. 14 For those who are LED BY THE SPIRIT of God are the children of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:25 If we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. (ESV) 5A. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT BY LEARNING HIS VOICE John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (ESV) John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (ESV) 5B. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY PAYING ATTENTION TO HIS PROMPTINGS 5C. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL CORRECT YOU Acts 10:13-15 Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.” 14 “No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.” 15 But the voice spoke again: “Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” (NLT) 5D. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL RESTRAIN YOU Acts 16:6–7 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been FORBIDDEN by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus DID NOT allow them. (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DIRECT YOU ON WHERE TO GO Acts 8:29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “GO over and join this chariot.” (ESV) Acts 10:19–20 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and GO down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL DIRECT YOU ON A DECISION Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (ESV) Acts 15:28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: (ESV) 5F. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL SPEAK TO US ABOUT THE FUTURE Acts 20:23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. (ESV) 6. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY OBEYING THE SPIRIT Ephesians 4:30 And do not GRIEVE the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not QUENCH the Spirit. (ESV) Hebrews 3:7–8 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, (ESV)

THE SECRETS TO DAILY FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24 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. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and HE WILL DO IT (NIV) Titus 3:5 he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT. (NIV) Galatians 3:3 Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit, are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh? (NIV) 6 STEPS TO BEING SPIRIT LED INSTEAD OF FLESH LED Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (ESV) 1. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT STARTS FROM FREEDOM, NOT CONDEMNATION Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (ESV) 2. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT IS ABOUT SURRENDERING MORE, NOT STRIVING MORE Romans 8:3–4 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh BUT ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT. (ESV) 2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from ONE DEGREE OF GLORY TO ANOTHER. For THIS COMES FROM the Lord who is the Spirit. (ESV) 3. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES RENEWING YOUR MIND Romans 8:5–6 For those who live according to the flesh set their MINDS on the things of the flesh, but those who LIVE ACCORDING TO THE SPIRIT set their MINDS on the things of the Spirit. 6 For to set the MIND on the flesh is death, but to set the MIND on the Spirit is life and peace. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 Instead, LET THE SPIRIT RENEW YOUR THOUGHTS AND ATTITUDES. (NLT) 4. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT INVOLVES CRUCIFYING YOUR FLESH Romans 8:7–8 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. 8 Those who are in the FLESH cannot please God. (ESV) Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV) Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. (ESV) 5. BEING LED BY THE SPIRIT REQUIRES LEARNING TO FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING Romans 8:9–14 You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. 10 But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the SPIRIT GIVES LIFE because of righteousness. 11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also GIVE LIFE to your mortal bodies because of his SPIRIT who lives in you. 12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the SPIRIT you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. 14 For those who are LED BY THE SPIRIT of God are the children of God. (NIV) Galatians 5:25 If we LIVE BY THE SPIRIT, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. (ESV) 5A. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT BY LEARNING HIS VOICE John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. (ESV) John 16:13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. (ESV) 5B. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY PAYING ATTENTION TO HIS PROMPTINGS 5C. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL CORRECT YOU Acts 10:13-15 Then a voice said to him, “Get up, Peter; kill and eat them.” 14 “No, Lord,” Peter declared. “I have never eaten anything that our Jewish laws have declared impure and unclean.” 15 But the voice spoke again: “Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean.” (NLT) 5D. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL RESTRAIN YOU Acts 16:6–7 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been FORBIDDEN by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. 7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus DID NOT allow them. (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DIRECT YOU ON WHERE TO GO Acts 8:29 And the Spirit said to Philip, “GO over and join this chariot.” (ESV) Acts 10:19–20 And while Peter was pondering the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are looking for you. 20 Rise and GO down and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them.” (ESV) 5E. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL DIRECT YOU ON A DECISION Acts 13:2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” (ESV) Acts 15:28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: (ESV) 5F. THE HOLY SPIRIT’S VOICE WILL SPEAK TO US ABOUT THE FUTURE Acts 20:23 except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. (ESV) 6. YOU FOLLOW THE SPIRIT’S LEADING BY OBEYING THE SPIRIT Ephesians 4:30 And do not GRIEVE the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:19 Do not QUENCH the Spirit. (ESV) Hebrews 3:7–8 Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, “Today, if you hear his voice, 8 do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, (ESV)

MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)

MY BODY IS NOT MY BOSS Colossians 3:5–7 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING WITHIN YOU. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 YOU USED TO DO THESE THINGS when your life was still part of this world. (NLT) 4 STEPS TO GET VICTORY OVER YOUR FLESH 1. RECOGNIZE YOUR FLESH SHOULD NOT LEAD YOUR LIFE Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. (NIV) 2. IDENTIFY SINFUL PATTERNS Colossians 3:5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) Colossians 3:8-9 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. (NLT) James 1:14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their OWN evil desire and enticed. (NIV) James 5:16 Therefore confess YOUR SINS to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off EVERYTHING that hinders and THE SIN that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, (NIV) 3. RECOGNIZE THE CONSEQUENCES OF FLESH-LED LIVING Colossians 3:6 Because of these sins, the ANGER of God is coming. (NLT) Galatians 6:7–8 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap DESTRUCTION; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) James 1:15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to DEATH. (NIV) Romans 8:6 The mind governed by the flesh is DEATH, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. (NIV) Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death. (ESV) 4 PUT YOUR FLESH IN ITS RIGHTFUL PLACE 4A. CRUCIFY YOUR FLESH Romans 8:13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to DEATH the misdeeds of the body, you will live. (NIV) Galatians 5:24 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have CRUCIFIED the flesh with its passions and desires. (NIV) Matthew 5:30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, CUT IT OFF and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, TO ABSTAIN from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. (NIV) Romans 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make NO PROVISION FOR THE FLESH, to gratify its desires. (ESV) Luke 9:23 Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must DENY themselves and take up THEIR CROSS DAILY and follow me. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 9:27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (ESV) MOST CHRISTIANS ARE NOT DEFEATED BY DEMONS. THEY’RE DEFEATED BY THE UNDISCIPLINED DESIRES. John 8:34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. (ESV) 4B. START PRACTICING SPIRITUAL HABITS Colossians 3:9-10 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 PUT ON YOUR NEW NATURE, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. (NLT) 2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have DIVINE power to destroy strongholds. (ESV) 1. FASTING 2. DAILY PRAYER, WORSHIP, AND BIBLE READING Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (NIV) 3. CHURCH 4. SERVING 5. SMALL GROUP 6. SABBATH 4C. START FOLLOWING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S LEADING Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (ESV)

I’M ABOUT TO LOSE MY MIND UP IN HERE Romans 7:22-23 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. (NIV) Romans 8:5–7 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The MIND governed by the FLESH is DEATH, but the MIND governed by the SPIRIT is LIFE AND PEACE. 7 The MIND governed by the FLESH IS HOSTILE TO GOD; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) 4 PRACTICAL STEPS TO BE MADE NEW IN YOUR MIND 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 1. WE MUST FIGHT MENTAL BATTLES WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation and the SWORD of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV) Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged SWORD, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (NIV) 2. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Romans 12:2 Do not conform 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. (NIV) 3. WE DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY TAKING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE 4. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPLACING LIES WITH TRUTH 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to MAKE IT OBEDIENT TO CHRIST. (NIV) 4A. WE REPLACE LIES BY READING AND MEMORIZING GOD’S WORD 4B. WE REPLACE LIES BY SPEAKING GOD’S TRUTH Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) 4C. WE REPLACE LIES AND DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPEATING THE STEPS 1 Chronicles 4:10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested. (NKJV) Psalm 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. (NIV) Jude 24 24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, (ESV)

I’M ABOUT TO LOSE MY MIND UP IN HERE Romans 7:22-23 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. (NIV) Romans 8:5–7 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The MIND governed by the FLESH is DEATH, but the MIND governed by the SPIRIT is LIFE AND PEACE. 7 The MIND governed by the FLESH IS HOSTILE TO GOD; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST. (ESV) Ephesians 4:23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) 4 PRACTICAL STEPS TO BE MADE NEW IN YOUR MIND 2 Corinthians 10:3–5 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 1. WE MUST FIGHT MENTAL BATTLES WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Ephesians 6:17 Take the helmet of salvation and the SWORD of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV) Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged SWORD, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (NIV) 2. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS WITH SPIRITUAL WEAPONS Romans 12:2 Do not conform 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. (NIV) 3. WE DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY TAKING EVERY THOUGHT CAPTIVE 4. WE MUST DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPLACING LIES WITH TRUTH 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to MAKE IT OBEDIENT TO CHRIST. (NIV) 4A. WE REPLACE LIES BY READING AND MEMORIZING GOD’S WORD 4B. WE REPLACE LIES BY SPEAKING GOD’S TRUTH Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) 4C. WE REPLACE LIES AND DEMOLISH MENTAL STRONGHOLDS BY REPEATING THE STEPS 1 Chronicles 4:10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested. (NKJV) Psalm 27:13 I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. (NIV) Jude 24 24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, (ESV)

WHY AM I SAVED BUT STRUGGLING WITH HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS? 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 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. (NIV) Romans 7:14–24 14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. FOR WHAT I WANT TO DO I DO NOT DO, BUT WHAT I HATE I DO.  16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, BUT IT IS SIN LIVING IN ME. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  For I have the desire to do what is good, BUT I CANNOT CARRY IT OUT. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—THIS I KEEP ON DOING. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, EVIL IS RIGHT THERE WITH ME. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, WAGING WAR AGAINST THE LAW OF MY MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this BODY that is subject to death? (NIV) Colossians 3:5 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) 1. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR MIND 1A. YOUR OLD THINKING PATTERNS REMAIN   A. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE ENVIRONMENT YOU GREW UP IN   B. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY YOUR EXPERIENCES IN LIFE   C. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY CULTURE  D. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE WORDS SPOKEN OVER YOU  Ephesians 4:23 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) Romans 12:2 2 Do not conform 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. (NIV)  1B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT MENTAL STRONGHOLDS STILL EXIST  2 Corinthians 10:4–5 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish STRONGHOLDS.  5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 2. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR EMOTIONS 2A. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOU STILL CARRY OLD EMOTIONAL PATTERNS  2B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE CONTROLLING YOUR EMOTIONS  2C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENTS  2D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL STRONGHOLDS  2E. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND WOUNDS 2F. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS  3. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR WILL AND YOUR FLESH 3A. YOUR FLESH AND WILL HAVE BEEN TRAINED FOR YEARS  3B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH CRAVES IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION   3C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH STRUGGLES WITH GENERATIONAL PATTERNS  Exodus 34:7 7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations.” (NLT) 3D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH RESISTS SURRENDERING TO GOD  Galatians 5:17 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. (NIV) Romans 7:25 25 Thanks be to God, who DELIVERS ME through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. (NIV)

WHY AM I SAVED BUT STRUGGLING WITH HURTS, HABITS & HANGUPS? 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 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. (NIV) Romans 7:14–24 14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. FOR WHAT I WANT TO DO I DO NOT DO, BUT WHAT I HATE I DO.  16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, BUT IT IS SIN LIVING IN ME. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  For I have the desire to do what is good, BUT I CANNOT CARRY IT OUT. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—THIS I KEEP ON DOING. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, EVIL IS RIGHT THERE WITH ME. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, WAGING WAR AGAINST THE LAW OF MY MIND and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. 24 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this BODY that is subject to death? (NIV) Colossians 3:5 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things LURKING within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. (NLT) 1. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR MIND 1A. YOUR OLD THINKING PATTERNS REMAIN   A. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE ENVIRONMENT YOU GREW UP IN   B. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY YOUR EXPERIENCES IN LIFE   C. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY CULTURE  D. YOUR THINKING IS SHAPED BY THE WORDS SPOKEN OVER YOU  Ephesians 4:23 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; (NIV) Romans 12:2 2 Do not conform 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. (NIV)  1B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT MENTAL STRONGHOLDS STILL EXIST  2 Corinthians 10:4–5 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish STRONGHOLDS.  5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV) 2. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR EMOTIONS 2A. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOU STILL CARRY OLD EMOTIONAL PATTERNS  2B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE CONTROLLING YOUR EMOTIONS  2C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL ATTACHMENTS  2D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL STRONGHOLDS  2E. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRAUMA AND WOUNDS 2F. YOU’RE SAVED BUT STILL STRUGGLE WITH EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS  3. THERE’S A WAR IN YOUR WILL AND YOUR FLESH 3A. YOUR FLESH AND WILL HAVE BEEN TRAINED FOR YEARS  3B. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH CRAVES IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION   3C. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH STRUGGLES WITH GENERATIONAL PATTERNS  Exodus 34:7 7 I lavish unfailing love to a thousand generations. I forgive iniquity, rebellion, and sin. But I do not excuse the guilty. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected— even children in the third and fourth generations.” (NLT) 3D. YOU’RE SAVED BUT YOUR FLESH RESISTS SURRENDERING TO GOD  Galatians 5:17 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. (NIV) Romans 7:25 25 Thanks be to God, who DELIVERS ME through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. (NIV)

ONLY MY SPIRIT IS SAVED 
 1. BEFORE SALVATION OUR SPIRIT IS DEAD Ephesians 2:1–3 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, BODY be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 4:18 They are darkened in their understanding and SEPARATED from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because THEY ARE DISCERNED ONLY THROUGH THE SPIRIT. (NIV) 2. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS MADE ALIVE Ephesians 2:4-6 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (NIV) Colossians 2:13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you ALIVE with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, (NIV) 3. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS BORN AGAIN John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” (NIV) 4. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (NIV) 5. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM BLIND TO SEEING Acts 26:18 to open their EYES and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 6. AT SALVATION YOU BECOME A CHILD OF GOD Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (NIV) 7. AT SALVATION YOU GAIN ACCESS TO GOD THE FATHER Ephesians 2:18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (NIV) Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) 8. AT SALVATION YOU ARE A NEW CREATION 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 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. (NIV) John 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. (NIV) Romans 6:3–4 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (ESV)

ONLY MY SPIRIT IS SAVED 
 1. BEFORE SALVATION OUR SPIRIT IS DEAD Ephesians 2:1–3 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole SPIRIT, SOUL, BODY be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) Ephesians 4:18 They are darkened in their understanding and SEPARATED from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 2:14 The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because THEY ARE DISCERNED ONLY THROUGH THE SPIRIT. (NIV) 2. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS MADE ALIVE Ephesians 2:4-6 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, (NIV) Colossians 2:13 When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you ALIVE with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, (NIV) 3. AT SALVATION YOUR SPIRIT IS BORN AGAIN John 3:3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” (NIV) 4. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (NIV) 5. AT SALVATION YOU GO FROM BLIND TO SEEING Acts 26:18 to open their EYES and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 6. AT SALVATION YOU BECOME A CHILD OF GOD Romans 8:16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. (NIV) 7. AT SALVATION YOU GAIN ACCESS TO GOD THE FATHER Ephesians 2:18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (NIV) Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) 8. AT SALVATION YOU ARE A NEW CREATION 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 5:23 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. (NIV) John 3:6 Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. (NIV) Romans 6:3–4 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. (ESV)

WHY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LIFE IN DEAD PLACES? Luke 24:1–5 “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?’” (NIV) 3 WAYS TO FIND LIFE THIS EASTER 1. FIND LIFE IN THE RESURRECTION, NOT YOUR ROUTINE Luke 24:6  He IS NOT HERE; HE HAS RISEN! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: (NIV) 2. FIND LIFE IN GOD’S LOVE, NOT YOUR LABOR John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV) 1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us. (NIV) 3. FIND LIFE IN BELIEF, NOT DOUBT Luke 24:11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. (NIV) 3A. THE EYEWITNESS TESTIMONY 3B. THE WOMEN AS PRIMARY WITNESSES 3C. THE EMPTY TOMB 3D. THE RADICAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE DISCIPLES 3E. THE BROTHER OF JESUS John 7:5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. (NIV)

WHY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LIFE IN DEAD PLACES? Luke 24:1–5 “On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. 5 In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?’” (NIV) 3 WAYS TO FIND LIFE THIS EASTER 1. FIND LIFE IN THE RESURRECTION, NOT YOUR ROUTINE Luke 24:6  He IS NOT HERE; HE HAS RISEN! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: (NIV) 2. FIND LIFE IN GOD’S LOVE, NOT YOUR LABOR John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (NIV) 1 John 4:19 We love because he first loved us. (NIV) 3. FIND LIFE IN BELIEF, NOT DOUBT Luke 24:11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. (NIV) 3A. THE EYEWITNESS TESTIMONY 3B. THE WOMEN AS PRIMARY WITNESSES 3C. THE EMPTY TOMB 3D. THE RADICAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE DISCIPLES 3E. THE BROTHER OF JESUS John 7:5 For even his own brothers did not believe in him. (NIV)

How To Bring People To Jesus John 1:35–42 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)   1. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH AN ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS John 1:41 The FIRST thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV)
 James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Never stop praying. (NLT)    2. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH RELATIONSHIP 4 TIPS TO BRING PEOPLE TO JESUS 1. SERVE PEOPLE WITH ACTS OF KINDNESS Proverbs 18:16 Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! (NLT)   2. SERVE PEOPLE IN THEIR MOMENT OF NEED 3. SERVE PEOPLE WITH YOUR TESTIMONY 2 Timothy 2:24-26 - A servant of the Lord MUST NOT QUARREL but must be KIND to everyone, be able to teach, and BE PATIENT WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE. 25 GENTLY instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 4. SERVE PEOPLE BY INVITING THEM TO CHURCH 3. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)

How To Bring People To Jesus John 1:35–42 The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. 36 When he saw Jesus passing by, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” 37 When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. 38 Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they spent that day with him. It was about four in the afternoon. 40 Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. 41 The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) 42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)   1. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH AN ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS John 1:41 The FIRST thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ) (NIV)
 James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Never stop praying. (NLT)    2. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS BEGINS WITH RELATIONSHIP 4 TIPS TO BRING PEOPLE TO JESUS 1. SERVE PEOPLE WITH ACTS OF KINDNESS Proverbs 18:16 Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people! (NLT)   2. SERVE PEOPLE IN THEIR MOMENT OF NEED 3. SERVE PEOPLE WITH YOUR TESTIMONY 2 Timothy 2:24-26 - A servant of the Lord MUST NOT QUARREL but must be KIND to everyone, be able to teach, and BE PATIENT WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE. 25 GENTLY instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.  26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants. (NLT) 4. SERVE PEOPLE BY INVITING THEM TO CHURCH 3. BRINGING PEOPLE TO JESUS IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter). (NIV)

From New Thinking to New Doing

From New Thinking to New Doing

Breaking The Mindset That’s Blocking Your Breakthrough Matthew 6:31–34 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV) 2 Kings 4:1–2 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” 2 Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (NIV) 1. The Overwhelmed Mindset 2. The Self-worth Mindset Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (NIV) Psalm 34:19 The RIGHTEOUS person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; (NIV) 3. The Poverty Mindset 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may PROSPER in all things and be in health, just as your soul PROSPERS. (NKJV) Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. (ESV) Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to PROSPER you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV) Psalm 1:1–3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do PROSPERS. (NIV) Joshua 1:8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be PROSPEROUS and successful. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (NLT)

Breaking The Mindset That’s Blocking Your Breakthrough Matthew 6:31–34 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV) 2 Kings 4:1–2 The wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” 2 Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” (NIV) 1. The Overwhelmed Mindset 2. The Self-worth Mindset Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (NIV) Psalm 34:19 The RIGHTEOUS person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; (NIV) 3. The Poverty Mindset 3 John 1:2 Beloved, I pray that you may PROSPER in all things and be in health, just as your soul PROSPERS. (NKJV) Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and he adds no sorrow with it. (ESV) Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to PROSPER you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV) Psalm 1:1–3 Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do PROSPERS. (NIV) Joshua 1:8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be PROSPEROUS and successful. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (NLT)

BABY CHRISTIAN OR MATURE CHRISTIAN? Hebrews 5:12–14 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word ALL OVER AGAIN. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who LIVES ON MILK, BEING STILL AN INFANT, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (NIV) 1. MISUNDERSTANDING MATURITY 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) SIGNS OF BEING SPIRITUALLY STUCK 1A. INFANTS DEPEND ON OTHERS TO FEED THEM 1B. INFANTS DON’T LISTEN AND APPLY WELL 1C. INFANTS ARE SELF-CENTERED 2. MISPLACED PRIORITIES Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) 3. MISGUIDED MOTIVATION 4. MISMANAGE SIN 1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. (NIV) 5. MISREAD SITUATIONS Hebrews 5:14 1But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of DISCERNMENT trained by constant practice to DISTINGUISH good from evil. (ESV) 5A. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING SATAN’S SCHEMES 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 5B. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING THE VOICE OF GOD John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV) John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep KNOW ME (NIV) 6. MISS MATURING 6A. MATURITY REQUIRES PRACTICE Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment TRAINED BY CONSTANT PRACTICE to distinguish good from evil. (ESV) James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (NIV) 6B. MATURITY REQUIRES CORRECTION 1. THE READING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, REBUKING, CORRECTING, TRAINING in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God  may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV) 2. THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV) 3. THE PEOPLE OF GOD CORRECT THE MATURE Proverbs 15:31–32 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only HARM YOURSELF; but if you listen to CORRECTION, you GROW in understanding. (NLT) Proverbs 12:1 Whoever LOVES discipline LOVES knowledge, but whoever hates correction is STUPID. (NIV)

BABY CHRISTIAN OR MATURE CHRISTIAN? Hebrews 5:12–14 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word ALL OVER AGAIN. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who LIVES ON MILK, BEING STILL AN INFANT, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. (NIV) 1. MISUNDERSTANDING MATURITY 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) SIGNS OF BEING SPIRITUALLY STUCK 1A. INFANTS DEPEND ON OTHERS TO FEED THEM 1B. INFANTS DON’T LISTEN AND APPLY WELL 1C. INFANTS ARE SELF-CENTERED 2. MISPLACED PRIORITIES Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (NIV) 3. MISGUIDED MOTIVATION 4. MISMANAGE SIN 1 Timothy 6:11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. (NIV) 5. MISREAD SITUATIONS Hebrews 5:14 1But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of DISCERNMENT trained by constant practice to DISTINGUISH good from evil. (ESV) 5A. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING SATAN’S SCHEMES 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 11:14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV) 5B. THEY STRUGGLE DISCERNING THE VOICE OF GOD John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (NIV) John 10:14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep KNOW ME (NIV) 6. MISS MATURING 6A. MATURITY REQUIRES PRACTICE Hebrews 5:14 But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment TRAINED BY CONSTANT PRACTICE to distinguish good from evil. (ESV) James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (NIV) 6B. MATURITY REQUIRES CORRECTION 1. THE READING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 3:16–17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, REBUKING, CORRECTING, TRAINING in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God  may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (NIV) 2. THE PREACHING OF THE WORD OF GOD CORRECTS THE MATURE 2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. (NIV) 3. THE PEOPLE OF GOD CORRECT THE MATURE Proverbs 15:31–32 If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. 32 If you reject discipline, you only HARM YOURSELF; but if you listen to CORRECTION, you GROW in understanding. (NLT) Proverbs 12:1 Whoever LOVES discipline LOVES knowledge, but whoever hates correction is STUPID. (NIV)

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Matthew 7:16 By their FRUIT you will RECOGNIZE THEM. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? (NIV) Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their FRUIT you will RECOGINE THEM. (NIV) Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its FRUIT will be good, or make a tree bad and its  fruit will be bad, for a tree is RECOGNIZED by its FRUIT. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that EVERYONE MAY SEE YOUR PROGRESS. (NIV) 1. GROW IN LIVING BY THE TRUTH  1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV)  1A. GROW IN TRUTH BY RECOGNIZING FALSE TEACHERS 1 Timothy 4:2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. (NIV)  2 Timothy 4:3–4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. (NIV)   2 Corinthians 11:13–15 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. (NIV) Jude 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. (NIV)  1 Timothy 6:3–5 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. (NIV)  1B. TEST THEIR DOCTRINE AGAINST SCRIPTURE  Acts 17:11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and EXAMINED the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)   1C. GROW IN TRUTH BY LIVING BY GOD’s WORD 1 Timothy 4:3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. (NIV)  Mark 7:13 Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that. (NIV)  1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and DOCTRINE closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. (NIV)  A. WORK-BASED SALVATION B. HYPER-GRACE C. UNIVERSALISM D. DENIAL OF CHRIST’S DIVINITY OR HUMANITY E. SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS A REQUIREMENT FOR SALVATION F. EXTRA-BIBLICAL REVELATION G. FOLLOW YOUR HEART  H. CHRISTIANS DON’T SUFFER  I. THERE’S NO SPIRITUAL ENEMY  2. GROW IN GODLINESS  2A. GROWING IN THANKSGIVING  1 Timothy 4:4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, (NIV)  2B. GROWING IN THE WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER 1 Timothy 4:5-6 because it is consecrated by the WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER. 6 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, NOURISHED on the truths of the faith and of THE GOOD TEACHING THAT YOU HAVE FOLLOWED. (NIV)  2C. GROWING IN TRAINING YOURSELF TO BE GODLY  1 Timothy 4:7-8 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (NIV) 3. GROW IN MAKING DISCIPLES  1 Timothy 4:6 If you POINT THESE THINGS OUT to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:11Command and teach these things. (NIV)  4. GROW IN BEING A LEADER BY SETTING AN EXAMPLE  1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but SET AN EXAMPLE for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. (NIV)  5. GROW IN YOUR DEVOTION TO CHURCH 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, DEVOTE yourself to the PUBLIC reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. (NIV). 6. GROW IN YOUR GIFTS 1 Timothy 4:14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. (NIV)  7. GROW IN YOUR FAITHFULNESS 1 Timothy 4:15 Be DILIGENT in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. (NIV) 

MY RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Matthew 7:16 By their FRUIT you will RECOGNIZE THEM. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? (NIV) Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their FRUIT you will RECOGINE THEM. (NIV) Matthew 12:33 “Make a tree good and its FRUIT will be good, or make a tree bad and its  fruit will be bad, for a tree is RECOGNIZED by its FRUIT. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that EVERYONE MAY SEE YOUR PROGRESS. (NIV) 1. GROW IN LIVING BY THE TRUTH  1 Timothy 4:1 The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. (NIV)  1A. GROW IN TRUTH BY RECOGNIZING FALSE TEACHERS 1 Timothy 4:2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. (NIV)  2 Timothy 4:3–4 For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. (NIV)   2 Corinthians 11:13–15 For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15 It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve. (NIV) Jude 4 For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. (NIV)  1 Timothy 6:3–5 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. (NIV)  1B. TEST THEIR DOCTRINE AGAINST SCRIPTURE  Acts 17:11 Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and EXAMINED the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)   1C. GROW IN TRUTH BY LIVING BY GOD’s WORD 1 Timothy 4:3 They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. (NIV)  Mark 7:13 Thus you nullify the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that. (NIV)  1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and DOCTRINE closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. (NIV)  A. WORK-BASED SALVATION B. HYPER-GRACE C. UNIVERSALISM D. DENIAL OF CHRIST’S DIVINITY OR HUMANITY E. SPEAKING IN TONGUES AS A REQUIREMENT FOR SALVATION F. EXTRA-BIBLICAL REVELATION G. FOLLOW YOUR HEART  H. CHRISTIANS DON’T SUFFER  I. THERE’S NO SPIRITUAL ENEMY  2. GROW IN GODLINESS  2A. GROWING IN THANKSGIVING  1 Timothy 4:4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, (NIV)  2B. GROWING IN THE WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER 1 Timothy 4:5-6 because it is consecrated by the WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER. 6 If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, NOURISHED on the truths of the faith and of THE GOOD TEACHING THAT YOU HAVE FOLLOWED. (NIV)  2C. GROWING IN TRAINING YOURSELF TO BE GODLY  1 Timothy 4:7-8 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives’ tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. (NIV) 3. GROW IN MAKING DISCIPLES  1 Timothy 4:6 If you POINT THESE THINGS OUT to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, nourished on the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. (NIV) 1 Timothy 4:11Command and teach these things. (NIV)  4. GROW IN BEING A LEADER BY SETTING AN EXAMPLE  1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but SET AN EXAMPLE for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. (NIV)  5. GROW IN YOUR DEVOTION TO CHURCH 1 Timothy 4:13 Until I come, DEVOTE yourself to the PUBLIC reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. (NIV). 6. GROW IN YOUR GIFTS 1 Timothy 4:14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you. (NIV)  7. GROW IN YOUR FAITHFULNESS 1 Timothy 4:15 Be DILIGENT in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. (NIV) 

Change Your Relationship With Pain 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. PAIN NEVER STOPS James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, WHENEVER you face trials of MANY KINDS, (NIV) 2. PAIN AND THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE James 1:2 “CONSIDER IT PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, (NIV) 3. PAIN IS A TEST James 1:3 “because you know that the TESTING of your faith produces perseverance. (NIV) 4. PAIN ALWAYS PRODUCES SOMETHING IN YOU James 1:3 “because you know that the testing of your faith PRODUCES perseverance. (NIV) 5. PAIN IS THE VEHICLE THAT TAKES YOU TO YOUR NEXT LEVEL James 1:4 LET perseverance finish its work so that you may be MATURE and COMPLETE, NOT LACKING ANYTHING.” (NIV) Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we wlill reap a harvest if we DO NOT GIVE UP. (NIV) Job 42:12 The Lord BLESSED THE LATTER part of Job’s life MORE than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. (NIV)

Change Your Relationship With Pain 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. PAIN NEVER STOPS James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, WHENEVER you face trials of MANY KINDS, (NIV) 2. PAIN AND THE RIGHT PERSPECTIVE James 1:2 “CONSIDER IT PURE JOY, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, (NIV) 3. PAIN IS A TEST James 1:3 “because you know that the TESTING of your faith produces perseverance. (NIV) 4. PAIN ALWAYS PRODUCES SOMETHING IN YOU James 1:3 “because you know that the testing of your faith PRODUCES perseverance. (NIV) 5. PAIN IS THE VEHICLE THAT TAKES YOU TO YOUR NEXT LEVEL James 1:4 LET perseverance finish its work so that you may be MATURE and COMPLETE, NOT LACKING ANYTHING.” (NIV) Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we wlill reap a harvest if we DO NOT GIVE UP. (NIV) Job 42:12 The Lord BLESSED THE LATTER part of Job’s life MORE than the former part. He had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen and a thousand donkeys. (NIV)

Overcoming Excuses 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) Matthew 25:24–29 “Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate. 25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I HID it in the earth. Look, here is your money back.’ 26 “But the master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy servant! If you knew I harvested crops I didn’t plant and gathered crops I didn’t cultivate, 27 why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’ 28 “Then he ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. 29 To those WHO USE WELL WHAT THEY ARE GIVEN, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who DO NOTHING, even what little they have will be taken away. (NLT) 4 EXCUSES YOU NEED TO BURY 1. BURY THE BLAME GAME 2. BURY THE VICTIM MENTALITY 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV) 3. BURY THE COMPARISON TRAP 4. BURY THE FEAR OF FAILURE 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) 5 DIGGING PRINCIPLES TO FULFILL YOUR POTENTIAL 1. DIG UP TAKING OWNERSHIP OF YOUR LIFE Galatians 6:5 For each will have to bear his own load. (ESV) 2. DIG UP IDENTIFYING THE EXCUSES THAT ARE HOLDING YOU BACK Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 3. DIG UP CLARIFYING YOUR WHY Habakkuk 2:2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. (NKJV) 4. DIG UP THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV) 5. DIG UP TAKING STEPS TOWARD YOUR VISION James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. DO what it says. (NIV) James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, IS DEAD. (NIV) Ecclesiastes 11:4 Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. (NLT) Psalm 37:23 The STEPS of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; (ESV) Proverbs 16:3 COMMIT to the Lord whatever you DO, and he will establish your plans. (NIV)

Overcoming Excuses 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) Matthew 25:24–29 “Then the servant with the one bag of silver came and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a harsh man, harvesting crops you didn’t plant and gathering crops you didn’t cultivate. 25 I was afraid I would lose your money, so I HID it in the earth. Look, here is your money back.’ 26 “But the master replied, ‘You wicked and lazy servant! If you knew I harvested crops I didn’t plant and gathered crops I didn’t cultivate, 27 why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’ 28 “Then he ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one with the ten bags of silver. 29 To those WHO USE WELL WHAT THEY ARE GIVEN, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who DO NOTHING, even what little they have will be taken away. (NLT) 4 EXCUSES YOU NEED TO BURY 1. BURY THE BLAME GAME 2. BURY THE VICTIM MENTALITY 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV) 3. BURY THE COMPARISON TRAP 4. BURY THE FEAR OF FAILURE 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) 5 DIGGING PRINCIPLES TO FULFILL YOUR POTENTIAL 1. DIG UP TAKING OWNERSHIP OF YOUR LIFE Galatians 6:5 For each will have to bear his own load. (ESV) 2. DIG UP IDENTIFYING THE EXCUSES THAT ARE HOLDING YOU BACK Psalm 139:23-24 “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. (NLT) 3. DIG UP CLARIFYING YOUR WHY Habakkuk 2:2 Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. (NKJV) 4. DIG UP THE RIGHT RELATIONSHIPS Hebrews 10:24–25 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (NIV) 5. DIG UP TAKING STEPS TOWARD YOUR VISION James 1:22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. DO what it says. (NIV) James 2:17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by ACTION, IS DEAD. (NIV) Ecclesiastes 11:4 Farmers who wait for perfect weather never plant. If they watch every cloud, they never harvest. (NLT) Psalm 37:23 The STEPS of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; (ESV) Proverbs 16:3 COMMIT to the Lord whatever you DO, and he will establish your plans. (NIV)

GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL SAMUEL GREW 1 Samuel 2:21 And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel GREW up in the presence of the Lord. (NIV) 1 Samuel 2:26 And the boy Samuel CONTINUED TO GROW in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people. (NIV) KING DAVID GREW 2 Samuel 3:1 The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David GREW STRONGER AND STRONGER, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (NIV) SAMSON GREW Judges 13:24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He GREW and the Lord blessed him, (NIV) JOHN THE BAPTIST GREW Luke 1:80 And the child GREW and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel. (NIV) JESUS GREW Luke 2:52 And Jesus GREW in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you GROW like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) Colossians 1:9–10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, GROWING in the knowledge of God, (NIV) Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion UNTIL the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. THE HANGUP OF DESIRE 2. THE HANGUP OF GRACE Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 But GROW in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) 3. THE HANGUP OF AN OVER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling, (ESV) Colossians 2:6–7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, YOU must CONTINUE to follow him. 7 Let your roots GROW down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will GROW strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (NLT) SPIRITUAL GROWTH PLAN 3A. Yearly pray and fast 3B. Monthly tithe 3C. Weekly attend and serve at church 3D. Weekly attend a small group 3E. Daily spend time with God (First 15) 4. THE HANGUP OF AN UNDER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. (NIV) 5. THE HANGUP OF SELF-CENTERED LIVING Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you will be your servant. (NIV) 6. THE HANGUP OF DISTRACTED LIVING Luke 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The SEED is the word of God. (NIV) 6A. DISTRACTED BY THE DEVIL Luke 8:12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. (NIV) 6B. DISTRACTED BY TRIALS Luke 8:13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (NIV) 6C. DISTRACTED BY WORRIES Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not MATURE. (NIV) 6D. DETERMINED TO GROW Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by PERSEVERING produce a crop. (NIV)

GROWTH IS GOD’S WILL SAMUEL GREW 1 Samuel 2:21 And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel GREW up in the presence of the Lord. (NIV) 1 Samuel 2:26 And the boy Samuel CONTINUED TO GROW in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people. (NIV) KING DAVID GREW 2 Samuel 3:1 The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David GREW STRONGER AND STRONGER, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker. (NIV) SAMSON GREW Judges 13:24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He GREW and the Lord blessed him, (NIV) JOHN THE BAPTIST GREW Luke 1:80 And the child GREW and became strong in spirit; and he lived in the wilderness until he appeared publicly to Israel. (NIV) JESUS GREW Luke 2:52 And Jesus GREW in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. (NIV) 2 Peter 1:8 The more you GROW like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) Colossians 1:9–10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, 10 so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, GROWING in the knowledge of God, (NIV) Philippians 1:6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion UNTIL the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Peter 2:2 Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may GROW UP in your salvation, (NIV) 1. THE HANGUP OF DESIRE 2. THE HANGUP OF GRACE Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God (NIV) 2 Peter 3:18 But GROW in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (NIV) 3. THE HANGUP OF AN OVER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE Philippians 2:12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling, (ESV) Colossians 2:6–7 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, YOU must CONTINUE to follow him. 7 Let your roots GROW down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will GROW strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. (NLT) SPIRITUAL GROWTH PLAN 3A. Yearly pray and fast 3B. Monthly tithe 3C. Weekly attend and serve at church 3D. Weekly attend a small group 3E. Daily spend time with God (First 15) 4. THE HANGUP OF AN UNDER DEPENDENCE ON PEOPLE 1 Corinthians 8:1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. (NIV) 5. THE HANGUP OF SELF-CENTERED LIVING Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you will be your servant. (NIV) 6. THE HANGUP OF DISTRACTED LIVING Luke 8:11 “This is the meaning of the parable: The SEED is the word of God. (NIV) 6A. DISTRACTED BY THE DEVIL Luke 8:12 Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. (NIV) 6B. DISTRACTED BY TRIALS Luke 8:13 Those on the rocky ground are the ones who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they have no root. They believe for a while, but in the time of testing they fall away. (NIV) 6C. DISTRACTED BY WORRIES Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not MATURE. (NIV) 6D. DETERMINED TO GROW Luke 8:15 But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by PERSEVERING produce a crop. (NIV)

GOD USES SMALL PEOPLE FOR BIG PURPOSES PT. 2 1. GOD USES THE HUMBLE OVER THE HIGH AND MIGHTY Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the HUMBLE state of His servant.” (NIV) 2. GOD USES CHARACTER OVER CREDENTIALS Luke 1:26–27 “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. (NIV) 3. GOD USES A SERVANT OVER A SUPERSTAR Luke 1:38   “I am the Lord’s SERVANT,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. (NIV) Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the humble state of His SERVANT.” (NIV) Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, SERVANTS of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1 Corinthians 4:1 So look at Apollos and me as mere SERVANTS of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. (NLT) Romans 1:1 Paul, a BONDSERVANT of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God (NKJV) 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a SERVANT and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: (NIV) Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you will be your SERVANT.” (NIV) 3A. SERVANTS OF JESUS SERVE PEOPLE 2 Corinthians 4:5 “We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are YOUR SERVANTS for Jesus’ sake.” (NLT) 2 Galatians 5:13 “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, SERVE ONE ANOTHER humbly in love.” (NIV) 4. GOD USES HIS PRESENCE OVER YOUR PRESENCE Luke 1:28, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! THE LORD IS WITH YOU” (NIV) Luke 1:34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” (NIV) Luke 1:35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will COME ON YOU, and the power of the MOST HIGH WILL OVERSHADOW YOU. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. (NIV) Luke 1:37 For with God NOTHING will be impossible. (NKJV)

GOD USES SMALL PEOPLE FOR BIG PURPOSES PT. 2 1. GOD USES THE HUMBLE OVER THE HIGH AND MIGHTY Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the HUMBLE state of His servant.” (NIV) 2. GOD USES CHARACTER OVER CREDENTIALS Luke 1:26–27 “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. (NIV) 3. GOD USES A SERVANT OVER A SUPERSTAR Luke 1:38   “I am the Lord’s SERVANT,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. (NIV) Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the humble state of His SERVANT.” (NIV) Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, SERVANTS of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1 Corinthians 4:1 So look at Apollos and me as mere SERVANTS of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. (NLT) Romans 1:1 Paul, a BONDSERVANT of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God (NKJV) 2 Peter 1:1 Simon Peter, a SERVANT and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours: (NIV) Matthew 23:11 “The greatest among you will be your SERVANT.” (NIV) 3A. SERVANTS OF JESUS SERVE PEOPLE 2 Corinthians 4:5 “We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are YOUR SERVANTS for Jesus’ sake.” (NLT) 2 Galatians 5:13 “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, SERVE ONE ANOTHER humbly in love.” (NIV) 4. GOD USES HIS PRESENCE OVER YOUR PRESENCE Luke 1:28, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! THE LORD IS WITH YOU” (NIV) Luke 1:34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” (NIV) Luke 1:35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will COME ON YOU, and the power of the MOST HIGH WILL OVERSHADOW YOU. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. (NIV) Luke 1:37 For with God NOTHING will be impossible. (NKJV)

GOD USES SMALL PEOPLE FOR BIG PURPOSES Luke 1:26-27 “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.” (NIV) John 1:46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 1:27–28 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 28 God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. (NLT) John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I CHOSE YOU and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. (NIV) 1. GOD USES THE HUMBLE OVER THE HIGH AND MIGHTY Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the HUMBLE state of His servant.” (NIV) GOD USES HUMBLE PEOPLE! GOD IS ATTRACTED TO HUMILITY! James 4:6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (NIV) Proverbs 3:34 He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. (NIV) Matthew 23:12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (NIV) HUMBLE TEST 1. Do you admit you don’t know everything? 2. Do you choose listening over talking? 3. Do you celebrate others more than yourself? 4. Do you serve in ways no one sees? 5. Do you apologize quickly and sincerely? 6. Do you ask for feedback and listen without getting defensive? 7. Do you choose gratitude over entitlement? 8. Are you willing to take the lower seat or role? 9. Do you make others feel seen, valued, and important? 10. Do you remember who God is and who you are not? 2. GOD USES CHARACTER OVER CREDENTIALS Luke 1:26–27 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. (NIV)

GOD USES SMALL PEOPLE FOR BIG PURPOSES Luke 1:26-27 “In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.” (NIV) John 1:46 “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Philip. (NIV) 1 Corinthians 1:27–28 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 28 God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. (NLT) John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I CHOSE YOU and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. (NIV) 1. GOD USES THE HUMBLE OVER THE HIGH AND MIGHTY Luke 1:48, Mary sings, “For He has been mindful of the HUMBLE state of His servant.” (NIV) GOD USES HUMBLE PEOPLE! GOD IS ATTRACTED TO HUMILITY! James 4:6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (NIV) Proverbs 3:34 He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. (NIV) Matthew 23:12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. (NIV) HUMBLE TEST 1. Do you admit you don’t know everything? 2. Do you choose listening over talking? 3. Do you celebrate others more than yourself? 4. Do you serve in ways no one sees? 5. Do you apologize quickly and sincerely? 6. Do you ask for feedback and listen without getting defensive? 7. Do you choose gratitude over entitlement? 8. Are you willing to take the lower seat or role? 9. Do you make others feel seen, valued, and important? 10. Do you remember who God is and who you are not? 2. GOD USES CHARACTER OVER CREDENTIALS Luke 1:26–27 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. (NIV)

Colossians 4:2 DEVOTE yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV) Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, FAITHFUL in prayer. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray continually, (NIV) Luke 18:1 Always pray and never give up. (NIV) 1. KEEP CIRCLING FOR SPIRITUAL BREAKTHROUGH Acts 1:14 They all joined together CONSTANTLY IN PRAYER, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV) Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ASK HIM!” (NIV) 2. KEEP CIRCLING TO BREAKTHROUGH OBSTACLES Joshua 6:1-5 Now the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. 2 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. 3 March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. 4 Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. 5 When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.” (NIV) 4 QUICK LESSONS ON HOW TO CIRCLE OBSTACLES FOR A BREAKTHROUGH   2A. SECURELY SHUT DOES NOT STOP GOD  2B. SEE WHAT GOD SEES Joshua 6:2 “Then the Lord said to Joshua, “SEE, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men.” (NIV) 2C. SEEING LEADS TO A FAITH THAT DOES NOT STOP 2D. SPEAK TO THE OBSTACLE  Mark 11:22–24 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly I tell you, if anyone SAYS TO THIS MOUNTAIN, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they SAY will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (NIV) 3. KEEP CIRCLING FOR FAMILY BREAKTHROUGH  Luke 1:6-7 Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. 7 But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both VERY OLD. (NIV) Luke 1:13 But the angel said to him: Do not be afraid, Zechariah; YOUR PRAYER HAS BEEN HEARD. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. (NIV)

Colossians 4:2 DEVOTE yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV) Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, FAITHFUL in prayer. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray continually, (NIV) Luke 18:1 Always pray and never give up. (NIV) 1. KEEP CIRCLING FOR SPIRITUAL BREAKTHROUGH Acts 1:14 They all joined together CONSTANTLY IN PRAYER, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (NIV) Luke 11:13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ASK HIM!” (NIV) 2. KEEP CIRCLING TO BREAKTHROUGH OBSTACLES Joshua 6:1-5 Now the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. 2 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. 3 March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. 4 Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. 5 When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.” (NIV) 4 QUICK LESSONS ON HOW TO CIRCLE OBSTACLES FOR A BREAKTHROUGH   2A. SECURELY SHUT DOES NOT STOP GOD  2B. SEE WHAT GOD SEES Joshua 6:2 “Then the Lord said to Joshua, “SEE, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men.” (NIV) 2C. SEEING LEADS TO A FAITH THAT DOES NOT STOP 2D. SPEAK TO THE OBSTACLE  Mark 11:22–24 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly I tell you, if anyone SAYS TO THIS MOUNTAIN, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they SAY will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (NIV) 3. KEEP CIRCLING FOR FAMILY BREAKTHROUGH  Luke 1:6-7 Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. 7 But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both VERY OLD. (NIV) Luke 1:13 But the angel said to him: Do not be afraid, Zechariah; YOUR PRAYER HAS BEEN HEARD. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. (NIV)

1. Bethlehem: The Little Town with a Big Assignment Micah 5:2: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are SMALL among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” (NIV) 2. The Manger: A Small Place for a Big Savior Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a MANGER, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 3. The Clothes: A Little Garment for a Loving God Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in CLOTHES and placed him in a manager, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 4. The Shepherds: Ordinary People with an Extraordinary Message Luke 2:8-10 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (NIV) 5. The Little Star: The Tiny Light Led to a Tremendous Moment Matthew 2:1–2 “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his STAR when it rose and have come to worship him.’” (NIV) 6. The Magi: A Minor Part with a Major Impact Matthew 2:9-10 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. (NIV) 7. The Gifts: The Giving That Saved Lives Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (NIV) 1. The Little Blessing of SALVATION Hebrews 2:1–3 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we IF WE IGNORE SO GREAT A SALVATION? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. (NIV) 2. The Little Blessing of LIFE Psalm 91:16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (NIV) Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. (NIV) 3.  The Little Blessing of HEALTH Psalm 103:2–3 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, (NIV) 4. The Little Blessing of RELATIONSHIPS Ephesians 1:16 I do not cease to give thanks for YOU, remembering you in my prayers, (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:4 I give thanks to my God always for YOU because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus (ESV) Philippians 1:3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of YOU (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 1:2 We give thanks to God always for all of YOU, constantly mentioning you in our prayers (ESV) 5. The Little Blessing of PROVISION Psalm 34:10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. (NIV) Psalm 37:25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN or their children begging bread. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)

1. Bethlehem: The Little Town with a Big Assignment Micah 5:2: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are SMALL among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel.” (NIV) 2. The Manger: A Small Place for a Big Savior Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a MANGER, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 3. The Clothes: A Little Garment for a Loving God Luke 2:7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in CLOTHES and placed him in a manager, because there was no guest room available for them. (NIV) 4. The Shepherds: Ordinary People with an Extraordinary Message Luke 2:8-10 “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (NIV) 5. The Little Star: The Tiny Light Led to a Tremendous Moment Matthew 2:1–2 “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his STAR when it rose and have come to worship him.’” (NIV) 6. The Magi: A Minor Part with a Major Impact Matthew 2:9-10 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. (NIV) 7. The Gifts: The Giving That Saved Lives Matthew 2:11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. (NIV) 1. The Little Blessing of SALVATION Hebrews 2:1–3 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 2 For since the message spoken through angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, 3 how shall we escape if we IF WE IGNORE SO GREAT A SALVATION? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. (NIV) 2. The Little Blessing of LIFE Psalm 91:16 With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” (NIV) Psalm 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. (NIV) 3.  The Little Blessing of HEALTH Psalm 103:2–3 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, (NIV) 4. The Little Blessing of RELATIONSHIPS Ephesians 1:16 I do not cease to give thanks for YOU, remembering you in my prayers, (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:4 I give thanks to my God always for YOU because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus (ESV) Philippians 1:3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of YOU (ESV) 1 Thessalonians 1:2 We give thanks to God always for all of YOU, constantly mentioning you in our prayers (ESV) 5. The Little Blessing of PROVISION Psalm 34:10 The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing. (NIV) Psalm 37:25 I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the RIGHTEOUS FORSAKEN or their children begging bread. (NIV) 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. (NIV)

I’m Keeping People From Jesus | Herbert Cooper Luke 15:4–7 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (NIV) 4 LESSONS ABOUT GOD’S HEART TO REACH ONE MORE LOST PERSON 1. WE ARE CALLED TO GO AFTER THE ONE Matthew 28:19 Therefore GO and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (NIV) Mark 16:15 He said to them, “GO into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. (NIV) Matthew 9:36–38 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to SEND OUT WORKERS into his harvest field.” (NIV) 2. WE MUST SEE THE NEED TO GO 3. WE MUST PRAY FOR MORE PEOPLE TO GO 4. WE MUST ANSWER OUR OWN PRAYERS TO GO Matthew 10:5-6 These twelve Jesus SENT out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 GO rather to the lost sheep of Israel. (NIV)

I’m Keeping People From Jesus | Herbert Cooper Luke 15:4–7 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (NIV) 4 LESSONS ABOUT GOD’S HEART TO REACH ONE MORE LOST PERSON 1. WE ARE CALLED TO GO AFTER THE ONE Matthew 28:19 Therefore GO and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (NIV) Mark 16:15 He said to them, “GO into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. (NIV) Matthew 9:36–38 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to SEND OUT WORKERS into his harvest field.” (NIV) 2. WE MUST SEE THE NEED TO GO 3. WE MUST PRAY FOR MORE PEOPLE TO GO 4. WE MUST ANSWER OUR OWN PRAYERS TO GO Matthew 10:5-6 These twelve Jesus SENT out with the following instructions: “Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 GO rather to the lost sheep of Israel. (NIV)

Luke 15:1-2 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." (NIV) 5 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES AND LOVING FATHER CHURCHES 1A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES ARE CONSUMED WITH THEMSELVES Luke 15:29 But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I'VE been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave ME even a young goat so I could celebrate with MY friends. (NIV) 1B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES ARE CONSUMED WITH WHO’S MISSING 2A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES ARE COUNTING RIGHTS AND WRONGS Luke 15:29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. (NIV) Luke 15:30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ (NIV) 2B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES ARE COUNTING SOULS Luke 15:32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) 3A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES FOCUS ON RULES Luke 15:30 But when THIS SON OF YOURS who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ (NIV) 3B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES FOCUS ON RELATONSHIP Luke 15:27 ‘Your BROTHER has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ (NIV) Luke 15:32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother OF YOURS was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) Luke 15:24 For this son OF MINE was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. (NIV) 4A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES RESENT GRACE Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. (NIV) 4B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES REJOICE IN GRACE Luke 15:32 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) Ephesians 2:8–9 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (NIV) 5A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES STAND OUTSIDE THE PARTY Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. (NIV) 5B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES PLEAD WITH OLDER BROTHERS TO JOIN THE PARTY Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and PLEADED with him. (NIV)                                                                                                                       

Luke 15:1-2 Now the tax collectors and "sinners" were all gathering around to hear him. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." (NIV) 5 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES AND LOVING FATHER CHURCHES 1A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES ARE CONSUMED WITH THEMSELVES Luke 15:29 But he answered his father, 'Look! All these years I'VE been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave ME even a young goat so I could celebrate with MY friends. (NIV) 1B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES ARE CONSUMED WITH WHO’S MISSING 2A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES ARE COUNTING RIGHTS AND WRONGS Luke 15:29 But he answered his father, ‘Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. (NIV) Luke 15:30 But when this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ (NIV) 2B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES ARE COUNTING SOULS Luke 15:32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) 3A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES FOCUS ON RULES Luke 15:30 But when THIS SON OF YOURS who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home, you kill the fattened calf for him!’ (NIV) 3B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES FOCUS ON RELATONSHIP Luke 15:27 ‘Your BROTHER has come,’ he replied, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’ (NIV) Luke 15:32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother OF YOURS was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) Luke 15:24 For this son OF MINE was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate. (NIV) 4A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES RESENT GRACE Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. (NIV) 4B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES REJOICE IN GRACE Luke 15:32 32 But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ” (NIV) Ephesians 2:8–9 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—9 not by works, so that no one can boast. (NIV) 5A. OLDER BROTHER CHURCHES STAND OUTSIDE THE PARTY Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and pleaded with him. (NIV) 5B. LOVING FATHER CHURCHES PLEAD WITH OLDER BROTHERS TO JOIN THE PARTY Luke 15:28 “The older brother became angry and refused to go in. So his father went out and PLEADED with him. (NIV)                                                                                                                       

Luke 15:4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses ONE of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? (NIV) Luke 15:7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over ONE sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (NIV) Luke 15:8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses ONE. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? (NIV) Luke 15:10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over ONE sinner who repents.” (NIV) 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (NIV) Luke 15:8–10 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (NIV) 1. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH CARES ABOUT THE ONE 2. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH LIGHTS LAMPS Acts 26:18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to LIGHT, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 2A. JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (NIV) 2B. YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD Matthew 5:14–16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV) 2C. THE CHURCH IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD Revelation 1:20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven LAMPSTANDS are the seven churches. (NIV) 3. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH SWEEPS FLOORS 3A. WE SWEEP WHEN WE PRAY Matthew 9:38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (NIV) 3B. WE SWEEP WHEN WE START CHURCHES

Luke 15:4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses ONE of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? (NIV) Luke 15:7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over ONE sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. (NIV) Luke 15:8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses ONE. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? (NIV) Luke 15:10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over ONE sinner who repents.” (NIV) 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (NIV) Luke 15:8–10 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (NIV) 1. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH CARES ABOUT THE ONE 2. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH LIGHTS LAMPS Acts 26:18 to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to LIGHT, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’ (NIV) 2A. JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD John 8:12 When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (NIV) 2B. YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD Matthew 5:14–16 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV) 2C. THE CHURCH IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD Revelation 1:20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven LAMPSTANDS are the seven churches. (NIV) 3. A “ONE MORE” CHURCH SWEEPS FLOORS 3A. WE SWEEP WHEN WE PRAY Matthew 9:38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” (NIV) 3B. WE SWEEP WHEN WE START CHURCHES

My Identity Is IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people IN CHRIST JESUS at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1. YOUR IDENTITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints IN CHRIST Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: (ESV) Colossians 1:2 To the saints and faithful brothers IN CHRIST at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. (ESV) Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful IN CHRIST JESUS (ESV) Colossians 1:26–27 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory. (NIV) Romans 8:11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living IN YOU, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives IN YOU. (NIV) Galatians 3:26 For IN CHRIST Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. (ESV) 2. YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:9 and be found IN HIM, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that IN HIM we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV) Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) Ephesians 1:7 IN HIM we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (ESV) Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God IN CHRIST forgave you. (ESV) Ephesians 2:13 But now IN CHRIST JESUS you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:2 To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified IN CHRIST JESUS, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: (ESV) 2 Timothy 1:9 Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us IN CHRIST Jesus before the ages began, (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is IN CHRIST, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 3. YOUR GODLY MIND IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST JESUS, (ESV) 4. YOUR HUMILITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5- 8 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV) 5. YOUR CONFIDENCE IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory IN CHRIST JESUS and put no confidence in the flesh (ESV) Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives IN ME. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (ESV) Ephesians 3:12 In whom we have BOLDNESS and access with confidence through our faith IN HIM. (ESV) 6. YOUR PEACE IS IN CHRIST 7. YOUR NEEDS ARE MET IN CHRIST Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) 1. Am I truly In Christ Jesus? 2. Am I confusing my wants with my needs? 3. Am I obeying God’s word? Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us IN CHRIST with EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, (ESV)

My Identity Is IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people IN CHRIST JESUS at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: (NIV) 1. YOUR IDENTITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 1:1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all the saints IN CHRIST Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons: (ESV) Colossians 1:2 To the saints and faithful brothers IN CHRIST at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. (ESV) Ephesians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, To the saints who are in Ephesus, and are faithful IN CHRIST JESUS (ESV) Colossians 1:26–27 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory. (NIV) Romans 8:11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living IN YOU, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives IN YOU. (NIV) Galatians 3:26 For IN CHRIST Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. (ESV) 2. YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:9 and be found IN HIM, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that IN HIM we might become the righteousness of God. (ESV) Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) Ephesians 1:7 IN HIM we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, (ESV) Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God IN CHRIST forgave you. (ESV) Ephesians 2:13 But now IN CHRIST JESUS you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. (ESV) 1 Corinthians 1:2 To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified IN CHRIST JESUS, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: (ESV) 2 Timothy 1:9 Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us IN CHRIST Jesus before the ages began, (ESV) 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is IN CHRIST, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (ESV) 3. YOUR GODLY MIND IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST JESUS, (ESV) 4. YOUR HUMILITY IS IN CHRIST Philippians 2:5- 8 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours IN CHRIST Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV) 5. YOUR CONFIDENCE IS IN CHRIST Philippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory IN CHRIST JESUS and put no confidence in the flesh (ESV) Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives IN ME. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (ESV) Ephesians 3:12 In whom we have BOLDNESS and access with confidence through our faith IN HIM. (ESV) 6. YOUR PEACE IS IN CHRIST 7. YOUR NEEDS ARE MET IN CHRIST Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory IN CHRIST JESUS. (ESV) 1. Am I truly In Christ Jesus? 2. Am I confusing my wants with my needs? 3. Am I obeying God’s word? Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us IN CHRIST with EVERY spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, (ESV)

1. CARES  Mark 4:19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. (NIV) 2. COMPARISON 2 Corinthians 10:12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. (NKJV) Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the SECRET of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (NIV) 1. CONTENTMENT IS LEARNED   Philippians 4:11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. (NIV) Philippians 3:14 I PRESS on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (NIV) 2. CONTENTMENT COMES FROM GRATEFULNESS Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (NIV) Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. (NIV) Colossians 1:3 We ALWAYS THANK GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, (NIV) 1 Corinthians 1:4 I ALWAYS THANK MY GOD for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:18 give THANKS IN ALL circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 3. CONTENTMENT COMES AS WE RELY ON GOD Philippians 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (NIV)

1. CARES  Mark 4:19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. (NIV) 2. COMPARISON 2 Corinthians 10:12 For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. (NKJV) Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the SECRET of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (NIV) 1. CONTENTMENT IS LEARNED   Philippians 4:11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. (NIV) Philippians 3:14 I PRESS on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (NIV) 2. CONTENTMENT COMES FROM GRATEFULNESS Philippians 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (NIV) Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with THANKSGIVING, present your requests to God. (NIV) Colossians 1:3 We ALWAYS THANK GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, (NIV) 1 Corinthians 1:4 I ALWAYS THANK MY GOD for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 1 Thessalonians 5:18 give THANKS IN ALL circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 3. CONTENTMENT COMES AS WE RELY ON GOD Philippians 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (NIV)

1. FOCUS ON WHO YOU ARE Philippians 3:4–10 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. 7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider EVERYTHING A LOSS because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be FOUND IN HIM, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, (NIV) Acts 9:15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. (NIV) John 1:12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God (NIV) Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) 2. FOCUS ON WHAT YOU NEED TO FORGET Philippians 3:12–13 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: FORGETTING what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, (NIV) Hebrews 10:22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. (NIV) 3. FOCUS ON THE GOAL Philippians 3:14 I PRESS on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV) Hebrews 10:35–36 So do not throw away your CONFIDENCE; it will be richly REWARDED. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. (NIV)

1. FOCUS ON WHO YOU ARE Philippians 3:4–10 though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless. 7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider EVERYTHING A LOSS because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be FOUND IN HIM, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, (NIV) Acts 9:15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. (NIV) John 1:12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God (NIV) Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) 2. FOCUS ON WHAT YOU NEED TO FORGET Philippians 3:12–13 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: FORGETTING what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, (NIV) Hebrews 10:22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. (NIV) 3. FOCUS ON THE GOAL Philippians 3:14 I PRESS on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV) Hebrews 10:35–36 So do not throw away your CONFIDENCE; it will be richly REWARDED. 36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. (NIV)

People's Church of OKC is a multi-cultural church designed with you in mind. Senior Pastor, Herbert Cooper.