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By [wbt_preacher_link preacher=”John Cortright”] John 11:45 Chapter 11 is the record of Lazarus being raised from the dead. This caused many to believe in Jesus. (The purpose of John is recorded in John 20:30-31 – to believe that Jesus is the Christ – the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name). John 11:46-53 The Pharisees convened a council and planned to kill Jesus John 11:54-57 Jesus went to the city of Ephraim (20 miles N of Jerusalem). Many were traveling to Jerusalem. John 12:1-11 Jesus went to Bethany six days before Passover. Many came, not only to see Jesus, but also to see Lazarus. John 12:12-18 – The Triumphal Entry This is recorded in all four Gospels (Luke 19:29-38; Mark 11:1-10; Matthew 21:1-11). Here is what the people were doing and saying: They spread branches of palm trees and their coats on the road (2 Kings 9:12-13). They praised God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles which they had seen. “Hosanna!” (Hebrew root yasha na meaning “save now”, “deliver us now”, “Do save” – Ps 118:25) “Hosanna to the son of David!” “Hosanna in the highest!” “King of Israel” “Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David”. “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord” (Ps 118:19-26 – LORD = Yahweh). John 12:18-19, Luke 19:39-40 – The Pharisees were concerned about the crowd. John 12:20-37 – They could not understand how Christ could be lifted up and die. Luke 19:11-28 – Before making this triumphal entry, Jesus spoke this parable “because they supposed the kingdom of God was going to appear immediately”. Be faithful – Jesus Christ is coming back!The post The Triumphal Entry first appeared on Living Hope.
By [wbt_preacher_link preacher=”John Cortright”] Wisdom from above vs earthly wisdom James 3:13-18 In James 1:5 We were encouraged to ask God if we lack wisdom. What does godly wisdom look like? Wisdom from above is gentle, pure, peaceable, reasonable, full of mercy, full of good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. Wisdom of this world has bitter jealousy; has selfish ambition; is arrogant; lies against the truth; is earthly, natural, and demonic; brings disorder and evil. Friendship with the world is hostility toward God James 4:1-4 James 4:1 (ESV) What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You lust or covet. You don't have because you don't ask. You ask and don't receive due to wrong motives, that you may spend it on pleasures. Friendship with the world is hostility toward God. 1 John 2:15-17 God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble James 4:5-10 Be humble and mourn. Don't be prideful 1 Peter 5:5b-6; Matthew 5:3-4 – Sermon on the Mount; Luke 6:20-21 – Sermon on the plain Do not judge James 4:11-12 Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 6:37; Romans 14:4, 10-13 Don't boast about tomorrow James 4:13-17 Proverbs 27:1; Luke 12:14-21The post James Four first appeared on Living Hope.
By [wbt_preacher_link preacher=”John Cortright”] James chapter two continues with the context in chapter one. The last topic covered was to be a doer of the word and not only a hearer (James 1:23-27). Chapter two really expounds on this idea of what is a doer of the word. Chapter two emphasizes two major points: 1) Do not be partial in your faith and love, 2) Faith without works is dead. Do not be partial in your faith and love James 2:1 Do not hold your faith with an attitude of personal favoritism. Show no partiality (Lev 19:15). James 2:2-7 Here is an example of being partial, showing personal favoritism. We are not to judge people based on how they look. We are not to show partiality based on a person's wealth, education, or social status. James 2:8 The royal law is to “love your neighbor as yourself.” Love has no partiality. Remember the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). James 2:9-13 Showing partiality is sin! Speak and act as those who are judged by the law of liberty! Faith without works is dead If you have faith, there will be corresponding works or actions. James 2:14-17 – Faith, if it has no works is dead What good is it if someone says he has faith but does not have works (1 John 3:16-18)? James 2:18-20 – Faith without works is useless. Show me your faith without works and I will show you my faith by my works. James 2:21-26 – Faith without works is dead. Because Abraham had faith – he had corresponding works. His faith had action. Rahab also took action. She acted in faith.The post James Two first appeared on Living Hope.
By [wbt_preacher_link preacher=”John Cortright”] 2 Corinthians 2:17 – ESV (English Standard Version) Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. When thinking of “creation,” one often thinks of the Genesis creation. Throughout Scripture, God hints at a new creation. Ps 102:15-18; 104:29-30; Is 65:17 1 Peter 3:5-13 In the future, God is going to create new heavens and a new earth. Christ is central to this new creation. He paid the price for man's redemption. He is the first fruits – the first to be raised from the dead (1 Co 15:21-23). He is the firstborn from the dead, the beginning, the firstborn of creation (Col 1:15, 18). Compare Revelation 1:5 with Revelation 3:14. Jesus is not the beginning of the Genesis creation. He is the beginning of the new creation, the church of the first born (He 12:22-24). Jesus entered into this new life and is seated at the right hand of God (Eph 1:19-23). When we believe in Jesus, we are sealed with the holy spirit of promise, a pledge of our future inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14). It is a new creation! We can choose to live according to this new life in Christ (Ephesians 4:21-24). Colossians 3:1-4 We have died, and our life is hidden with Christ! Set our minds above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. We live in the present with a view to the future. Jesus preached about living for the age to come. Lu 18:29-30; Lu 14:12-14; Ma 19:27-28 These verses make sense when you understand the new creation. Heb 11:13; 12:2; Phi 3:11, 20-21 2 Corinthians 4:13-18; 5:1-17 We are just traveling through this world. In Christ, we are a new creation!The post New Beginnings: A New Creation in Christ first appeared on Living Hope.
By [wbt_preacher_link preacher=”John Cortright”] Throughout our days, our years, our lives, no matter what the circumstance, God is in control. All things were designed for His purpose. Revelation 4:8-11 For You created all things, and because of Your will they existed and were created Job 14:1-2; Psalm 90:1-12; 39:4-5; 144:3-4 A man's life is short of days. He comes forth like a flower and withers. Teach us to number our days. What is the extent of my days? My lifetime is nothing in Your sight. Man is like a mere breath, a passing shadow. Psalm 62:5-9 Wait for God only! He only is my rock and my salvation. Trust in Him at all times. Men of low degree and high rank together in the balances are lighter than breath. Psalm 31:1-13 God was his refuge, the rock of his strength, his fortress. David committed his soul to God through the afflictions and troubles. Jesus quoted from this psalm on the cross (Luke 23:46; 1 Peter 2:21-23). Psalm 31:14-15 But as for me, I trust in You, O Yahweh, I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hand. Where are we in the course of human history? When will Christ return? It is in God's hand. The Father alone knows the day and hour. Mat 24:36; Mar 13:32-33; Acts 1:7; 1 The 5:1-6; 2 Pet 3:8-14The post My Times Are in Your Hand first appeared on Living Hope.
by John Cortright 1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks! This is God’s will for us – give thanks in everything. We have so much to be thankful for. Even, in what might seem to be terrible circumstances, we are told to give thanks in everything. What are you looking at? Where is your focus? Remember God. Do not forget Continue Reading
Definition of a myth: a traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events; a widely held but false belief or idea. 1 Tim 1:4; 2 Timothy 4:4 In the books of Timothy, the Apostle Paul warned about myths and people turning from the truth. We do not want to have a myth or a falsehood be the doctrine for our faith. The Scriptures, the Bible, is our source for truth. What is the Christian’s future after death? Be as the Bereans, and search the Scriptures for yourself. What does the Bible say about this important topic? Acts 17:11 Two Questions: 1. When people die, do they immediately live on in the afterlife? 2. After we are raised from the dead in the future, where is our final dwelling place? Is it heaven or a new Paradise on earth? So what happens when a person dies? Psalm 6:5 The Hebrew word sheol means the grave, or the state of being dead - gravedom. Ecclesiastes 9:5-6, 10 Acts 2:29, 34 David is dead and buried. He has not ascended into heaven. When will the dead be made alive? Hebrews 9:27 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 John 5:25, 28-29; 6:39-40 The Bible teaches that the dead will be raised again to life in the future - in the last day at the resurrection from the dead. There will be a resurrection of the just and a resurrection of the unjust. Daniel 12:1-2 Revelation 20:4b-6 There is a 1,000 year reign of Christ between these two events. Acts 24:14-16 What will we inherit in the eternal age - heaven or the earth? Matthew 5:5 - The gentle (the meek) will inherit the earth. Romans 4:13 - The promise to Abraham, the father of faith, is that he would inherit the world - land! Psalm 115:16 - God made the earth for man! We were designed to be earth dwellers! 2 Peter 3:13 - There is a promise of a new heaven and earth. Revelation 2:7 - He who overcomes will eat of the tree of life in the Paradise of God. The Bible begins in the book of Genesis with man in Paradise on earth, and the Bible ends in the book of Revelation with those who have faith living in Paradise on a new earth. Verses that describe death as sleep - a state of unconsciousness The dead will be raised, awakened from sleep, in the resurrection Deuteronomy 31.16 2 Samuel 7.12 1 Kings 1.21 1 Kings 2.10 1 Kings 11.21 1 Kings 11.43 1 Kings 14.20 1 Kings 14.31 1 Kings 15.8 1 Kings 15.24 1 Kings 16.6 1 Kings 16.28 1 Kings 22.40 1 Kings 22.50 2 Kings 8.24 2 Kings 10.35 2 Kings 13.9 2 Kings 13.13 2 Kings 14.16 2 Kings 14.22 2 Kings 14.29 2 Kings 15.7 2 Kings 15.22 2 Kings 15.38 2 Kings 16.20 2 Kings 20.21 2 Kings 21.18 2 Kings 22.20 2 Kings 24.6 2 Chronicles 9.31 2 Chronicles 12.16 2 Chronicles 14.1 2 Chronicles 16.13 2 Chronicles 21.1 2 Chronicles 26.2 2 Chronicles 26.23 2 Chronicles 27.9 2 Chronicles 28.27 2 Chronicles 32.33 2 Chronicles 33.20 Job 3.11-13 Job 7.21 Job 14.12-15 Psalm... To read the rest of the notes visit lhim.org/sermons
2: Transformed Mind by John Cortright (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=85) Let's get physical! In this class, Transformed Living, we will read and learn from Romans Chapters 12 and... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=85
4: Function in the Body of Christ by John Cortright (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=85) Let's get physical! In this class, Transformed Living, we will read and learn from Romans Chapters 12 and... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=85
Nehemiah 8:1-3; 5-6; 8-12 There was weeping, yet the admonition was that the joy of the Lord was their strength! Ezra 3:10-13 - A similar experience of weeping and joy occurred when the foundation of the second temple was laid. Nehemiah 8:13-17 - They celebrated the Feast of Booths, as had not been done since the time of Joshua. The commandments of God convicted them. It was real to them! There was great rejoicing!!! Throughout the Scriptures when the people of God experienced God’s salvation, they experienced great joy. - When the children of Israel crossed the red sea defeating the Egyptian army; when David and Saul defeated the Philistine armies; when the ark of the covenant was brought into Jerusalem at the time of David; when Israel defeated a great multitude at the time of Jehoshaphat; when the Messiah was born; when the 70 returned with great joy, saying “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name”; when the disciples saw the resurrected Christ; when Philip preached in Samaria bringing great deliverance, the entire city was filled with rejoicing. The Scriptures also speak of great joy that will occur when Jesus returns, when the Kingdom begins, when the true salvation is realized, when there is a restoration of all things (Is 26:19; 35:3-6, 10; 51:3). Jesus told his disciples of the joy they would experience. John 16:16-22 There is great fortitude in joy. It strengthens the soul in rough times; it helps endure strife, temptation, and tribulation (James 1:2; Hebrews 12:1-3; Acts 5:40-41; 13:50-51). 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8 The church at Thessalonica received the word in much tribulation with “the joy of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 17:1-9). Jeremiah 15:16 The word became the joy and delight in the heart of Jeremiah. 1 Peter 1:3-9 Inexpressible (unspeakable) joy! You can’t put this joy into words. It’s not just being happy. It’s joy! It’s a spiritual reality that comes through the holy spirit, through the Scriptures, through Jesus Christ!
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Jesus taught us how to live in his day and time, and these principles are still true today, even in times like these in which we find ourselves in 2020. Matthew 5:1-16 The beatitudes or “blessed attitudes” provide us with guidance as to how we as disciples of Jesus should conduct our lives. Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers. Where are the peacemakers today? It is time for us, as Jesus’s disciples, to be peacemakers in this world that has so much hate, so much division, so much confusion, so many hurtful words, so much ungodly attitudes and actions that bring disorder and pandemonium. Where are the peacemakers? Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace and not strife, division, envy, anger, pride, jealousy, factions, disputes, dissensions, carousing (works of the flesh - Galatians 5:19-21). Romans 12:18 Be at peace with all men - “as far as it depends on you.” Ephesians 6:15; Romans 10:15; Isaiah 52:7 The gospel we share is a gospel of peace. This is the path we should walk. Our feet should walk in this path and bring peace to the world. This is part of the armor of God from Ephesians chapter 6. Luke 1:79 Follow Jesus. He will guide our feet into the way of peace. Do not follow the ways of the world which do not know the path of peace (Romans 3:13-18; Isaiah 59:4-8). How to be a peacemaker Keep your mind on God. Isaiah 26:3 Be quick to hear, slow to speak. Listen to other points of view. James 1:19; Proverbs 18:13 Don’t offend. If you do, reconcile quickly. Walk in a spirit of gentleness and forgiveness. Proverbs 15:18; 17:14; 18:19; Matthew 5:23-26; 18:15; Luke 17:1-4; Galatians 6:1 Don’t get angry and stir up strife. Proverbs 14:29; 5:18; 16:32; 17:14; 19:11; 20:3; Ecclesiastes 7:9 Be careful what you say. Speak words to edify and build up. Proverbs 15:2; 8:13; 17:28; 29:20; Ephesians 4:31; Colossians 3:8; Romans 14:19 Don’t judge. Matthew 7:1-5 Overcome evil with good. Romans 12:18-21; James 3:13-18 May the peacemakers rise up and let their lights shine in times like these!
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Psalm 107:1-32 - A Psalm of deliverance There is a chorus in this psalm (Verses 8, 15, 21, and 31). Let them give thanks to Yahweh for His lovingkindness, And for His wonders to the sons of men! 2 Chronicles 20:1-30 Jehoshaphat’s deliverance provides a great lesson today. 2 Chr 20:1-2 A great multitude from three nations, Moab, Ammon, and Edom, gathered to come up against Judah. 2 Chr 20:3-4 Jehoshaphat was afraid, but he turned his attention to seek Yahweh. 2 Chr 20:5-13 Jehoshaphat’s prayer is a great example to follow when you are in need of deliverance. 2 Chr 20:14-20 The spirit of God came upon a prophet, and Jehoshaphat heard from God. He had God’s promise upon which he could base his faith and subsequent actions. 2 Chr 20:21-25 The people of Judah acted in faith on God’s promise. God brought about complete deliverance! 2 Chronicles 20:26-30 After receiving deliverance, the people responded with joy and praise. Lessons from Jehoshaphat’s Deliverance - He set his heart to seek Yahweh in fasting and prayer. - He magnified Yahweh. - He rehearsed what God had done in the past for His people. - He brought Scripture - the promise of God - into his prayer. - He was specific about his current situation in his petition to God. - He acknowledged his powerlessness. - He waited and heard God speak. He received the specific promise and direction. - He consulted with the assembly. - They walked out on faith - acted upon what God had said. - They praised God - they blessed Yahweh!
Jehoshaphat’s Deliverance
The Blood of the Lamb
1 Corinthians 5:7b For Christ our Passover also has been sacrificed. John 1:36b Behold, the Lamb of God! The Original Passover Exodus 11:4-6; 12:29-30 All the firstborn of Egypt were killed. Exodus 12:1-13 - The institution of Passover “Kill it at twilight” in Hebrew means “between the two evenings.” Passover at time of Hezekiah 2 Chronicles 30:17-20 So Yahweh heard Hezekiah and healed the people. Jesus Christ Our Passover 1 Peter 1:18-19 Redeemed with the precious blood as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ Isaiah 53:4-10 Like a lamb that is lead to slaughter Matthew 27:22-51 About the ninth hour [the time between the evenings] Jesus cried again with a loud voice (John 19:30 “It is finished!”) and yielded up his spirit. (Luke 23:46 - “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.”) The veil in the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. (Hebrews 9:12 - his blood shed for us obtained eternal redemption!) 1 Peter 2:24 By His wounds you were healed.
Fruit of the Spirit - Gentleness
Gentleness Definition: The quality of being calm, kind, or soft; not severe, rough, strong, or violent. Synonyms: Affable, mild, tender, kind, placid, docile, tame, meek, submissive, compliant, passive, humble, timid, amenable, accommodating, acquiescent, willing Antonyms: Cruelty, hardness, harshness, penalty, punishment, revenge, rigor, severity, sternness, pride, vengeance, anger, fighting, argumentative. Gentleness and/or meekness is a quality of heart we should have when receiving direction from God. Psalm 25:9 (KJV) The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. James 1:21 Receive the word with “humility, meekness, gentleness,” Not with anger (James 1:19-21). Zechariah 7:11-12 They made their hearts like “flint” (KJV - “adamant stone;” ESV - “diamond hard”). When receiving from God, we should have a quality of gentleness, not hard-heartedness. The fruit of gentleness should guide our hearts in dealing with others. Galatians 6:1 The spirit of gentleness is how we should approach someone caught up in sin. 2 Timothy 2:23-26 We are not to be quarrelsome with those who oppose us. Rather, the fruit of gentleness should be our guide. The Apostle Paul was not always gentle before his conversion. 1 Timothy 1:12-13; Acts 8:3; 9:1-2; 22:3-5; 26:9-18 He had an encounter with Jesus, and his life changed. Paul changed from the inside out. Where he was once “furiously enraged” in persecuting the church, Paul changed to a man with a gentle spirit. 1 Thessalonians 2:5-8 This is how the Apostle Paul was among the churches in Thessalonica - “gentle, as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children.” This is how Jesus is with us. We come to him, drawn by his gentleness towards us. Matthews 11:28-30 We should display this fruit of gentleness toward others.
“The root of the fruit is walking by the spirit” Galatians 5:16-25 Walk by the spirit - verse 16 Keep in step with the spirit (ESV) - verse 25 Be led by the holy spirit. Follow the spirit. Follow Christ. Follow the words of Christ. A big part of walking by the spirit is being obedient to the Word of God. The fruit of the spirit is the result of how you live. If you live according to the flesh, the fruit in your life will be the works of the flesh. If you live according to the spirit, the fruit in your life will be the attributes listed here. Don’t simply tell people that you walk by the spirit. Rather, walk by the spirit, and the fruit in your life will be evident for all to see. Jesus Christ exemplified this fruit in his life. When you saw Christ, you saw love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. John 15:4-8 The spirit we have takes the place of Christ. It is Christ in you! You can walk with love, joy, peace, etc. How? By having Christ’s word abide in you. If you do, you will bear much fruit! John 15:10 - You can abide in Christ’s love! John 15:11 - You can have Christ’s joy in you! John 14:27 - You can have Christ’s peace in you! Peace Peace - What is peace? Merriam Webster: Peace is freedom from disturbance; a state of tranquility or quiet. Peace - What it is not Antonyms for peace: disagreement, discord, distress, upset, agitation, fighting, war, disharmony, frustration, worry By understanding what the fruit looks like, you can discern in your own life whether or not you are walking by the spirit. “Peace” is a great measurement. Do you allow circumstances to rob you of peace? With the spirit of Christ within you, you can maintain peace in the midst of tribulation. The “gospel of peace” (Isaiah 52:7, Romans 10:15; Ephesians 6:15) John 16:33 - In Christ, you will have peace. In the world, you will have tribulation Matthew 5:9 - Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God Romans 14:19 - Pursue things that make for peace and the building up of one another James 3:13-18 - The wisdom from above is peaceable Colossians 3:15 - Let the peace of Christ “rule” in your hearts Philippians 4:6-7 - The peace of God will “guard” your hearts How do you receive this fruit of peace? The same way you receive love and joy. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5) Philippians 4:8-9 “DWELL” on these things! And the peace of God will be with you.
Fruit of the Spirit - Peace
God Is Salvation
Yahweh is a God of Salvation. (Genesis 49:18; Exodus 15:2; 2 Samuel 22:47; Psalm 35:9; Isaiah 25:9; Psalm 18:46) The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted. Psalm 18:46 (KJV) God had a plan for salvation - to save humanity from sin and to provide eternal life in the age to come. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us. God is our savior because He put forth the plan of salvation. Jesus is our savior because he carried out God’s plan and saved us. (1 Thessalonians 5:9) "She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." Matthew 1:21 The name Jesus or Yeshua (Hebrew) means “Yahweh is Salvation.” Luke 1:26-38 The angel Gabriel comes to Mary. Luke 1:46-56 Mary exalts in Yahweh, in “God my Savior.” Luke 1:67-79 Zechariah (the Father of John the Baptist) prophesies. “Raised up a horn of salvation for us;” “salvation from our enemies;” “To give the people the knowledge of salvation” Luke 2:1-20 - The birth of Christ “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”
Movies, books, commentaries, and traditions should not be our primary source for understanding God. The Bible gives us the knowledge of God. God is who He says He is. Exodus 3:13-16 I AM THAT I AM is the explanation of His holy name, not the name itself. In the Bible when names are given, it is common in the same context to provide an explanation of the significance of the name. The Hebrew word used for “I AM” is Ehyeh, derived from the Hebrew root meaning “to be.” By saying “I AM THAT I AM,” God is declaring that He is the one who is, the one who really exists. He is different from the other gods who exist only in the imagination of man. God’s name “YHWH” derives from the exact same Hebrew root as “I am.” Strictly speaking, this name is a combination of three forms of this Hebrew Root: Hayah, Hoveh, and Yihyeh. These three words mean respectively: “He was,” “He is,” and “He will be.” When we call God by His name, we are essentially saying that He is the existing one -- He has always existed, He exists now, and He will always continue to exist.” Exodus 6:2-7 They would know that God is Yahweh! Many people have written about God. There are a lot of books. But God has given us His word -- the Bible -- to tell us who He is. He is who He says He is. Just because someone states, imagines, dreams, sings song lyrics, writes about Him, or makes a declaration about God’s nature and His attributes, it doesn’t mean it’s true. God is what He declares about Himself in Scripture. Exodus 33:12-16 “Let me know Your ways.” Exodus 33:17-18 “Show me Your glory” Exodus 33:19-23; Exodus 34:1-8 Ex 34:6-7 Then Yahweh passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "Yahweh, Yahweh God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations." 2 Chronicles 15:2, 4, 15 “If you seek Him, He will let you find Him” Proverbs 2:1-5 Seek His words as silver and search His commandments as hidden treasure. Then you will discern the fear of Yahweh and find the knowledge of God.
God Is Who He Says He Is
AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH -Mark 12:30 Mark 12:19-30 -- The first and great commandment, foremost of all -- love God! This is the first and great commandment. In Deuteronomy we are told to love God and cling (cleave, hold fast) to Him (Deuteronomy 10:20; 11:22; 13:4; 30:19-20). This is the same word used in Genesis 2:24, that a man should cleave, be joined, to his wife. 1 John 5:3 This commandment to love God is not burdensome. It is not to be a difficult, painstaking ordeal. 1 John 4:10, 16, 19 We love because He first loved us. Luke 7:36-50 When you truly experience God’s love in your life, the natural response is to love Him back in return. John 3:16; Romans 6:6-10 God loved us when we were sinners. He didn’t love us because we deserved love. Ephesians 2:1-10 He loved us with His great love when we were dead in trespasses and sins. Revelation 2:1-5 Don’t forget your first love. Ezekiel 16:1ff; Hosea 2:5-23; 3:1ff - An allegory of Yahweh’s love to an unfaithful bride Psalm 16:1ff -- A psalm of David David Loved God. Yahweh was his portion. In His presence is fullness of joy!
Facing Anxiety: Life's Situations
When life’s situations seem to overwhelm us with worries and fears, God’s Word gives us sound wisdom on what to do and how to be anxious for nothing. Whether it is dealing with anxious thoughts at school, worried about your performance at your job, or having overburdened cares raising children as a stay at home mom, the Bible is filled with clear direction on how to find peace in the midst of uncertainty. Biblical Wisdom for Facing Anxiety Know whom you serve -- the Lord Jesus. Ephesians 6:5-9; Colossians 3:22-24; Luke 10:38-42 -- Martha was anxious. Mary listened to the word of Jesus. Matthew 6:24 -- You cannot serve two masters. Recognize that anxious thoughts are not helpful. Matthew 6:25-27 -- Worry and anxiety do not help. They can’t add an hour to your life. They can’t add an inch to your height. There is nothing noble about being anxious. Don’t compare yourself with or judge others. Romans 14:4 -- Don’t judge others at work. Matthew 20:1-15 -- The parable of the laborers in the vineyard Don’t be jealous of others. Don’t get anxious comparing yourself to others. Be humble. Romans 12:3 -- Don’t think of yourself more highly that you ought to think. Philippians 2:3-4 -- Do nothing from selfishness. Regard others as more important than yourself. 1 Peter 5:5-7 -- Clothe yourself with humility. Cast all your cares, your anxiety, on Him. Be thankful -- content. 1 Timothy 6:6 -- Godliness with contentment is great gain. Luke 3:14 -- John told the soldiers to be content with their wages. Colossians 3:15 -- Let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Be thankful. Sing. Colossians 3:16-17 -- Sing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Psalm 30:4-5 -- Return to your joy center. Christ can free you from anxiety. Psalm 34:1-4 -- He answered me and delivered me from all my fears. John 8:31-32, 36 -- The son will make you free indeed. Romans 8:15 -- You have not received a spirit of slavery, leading to fear.
What is faith? Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. The context of this verse is a continuation of the closing verses of the previous chapter. (See Hebrews 10:35-39.) The things that are “hoped for,” the things “not seen,” have been promised by God!!! Faith begins with a promise of God. Do you know God’s word? Have you heard God speaking to you? This is not blind faith. It is faith in God. God said it. We are to believe it and act in faith. This has been man’s challenge since the very beginning. Did God say it? Do you know what God said? Once you are certain of the answer to these two questions, the critical decision for every person is then -- Do you believe it? If you do, then faith will be seen in your actions. There are two major sources to obtaining spiritual knowledge and understanding God’s promise. The Bible The holy spirit Hebrews 11:2-3 By faith we understand that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. Hebrews 11:6 Without faith it is impossible to please Him. Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah was warned of “things not seen.” Hebrews 11:8 By faith Abraham obeyed, and he went out, “not knowing where he was going.” Hebrews 11:30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they had encircled them for seven days. Joshua 6:1-5 This was the promise of God. It is not something Joshua dreamed up. God made a promise. Faith was in the doing. Joshua 6:12-17, 20 The people did exactly what God commanded. That was their decision point -- their crisis of faith. They did what God said, and His promise came to pass as they acted in faith. How about you? Do you have faith in what God has promised? What if we walked by faith? Prayer is an act of faith (1 Th 5:17; 1 Tim 2:1-2; Jam 5:16) Studying the Scriptures is an act of faith (2 Tim 2:15) Seeking knowledge and wisdom is an act of faith (Eph 1:15-18; Jam 1:5; Prov 2:1-5) Speaking in tongues is an act of faith (Acts 10:44-46; 19:6; 1 Cor 14:5, 15, 39) Tithing/giving is an act of faith (Prov 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10; 2 Cor 9:6-8) Speaking truth is an act of faith (2 Cor 4:13; Acts 28:31; 2 Tim 4:1-2) Forgiving others is an act of faith (Mt 6:12; Eph 4:32) Doing what God has revealed to you to do is an act of faith (John 5:19; 12:49; 14:10-12; 15:5, 7)
What If We Walked by Faith?
Acts 2:39 On the day of Pentecost, about 3,000 souls were added to the church in Jerusalem. What did they do? Perhaps we can learn from the early church. Acts 2:40-44 - Continually devoted to apostles' teaching - Continually devoted to fellowship - Continually devoted to breaking bread - Continually devoted to prayer - Had all things common -- sharing of their abundance as anyone had need Devoted to teaching, to doctrine Doctrine was not unimportant. The message of the gospel, the truth from Scripture was paramount in the first century (Acts 8:35; 17:2-3; 10-11; 28:23, 30-31). Paul warned against false doctrines (1 Timothy 1:3-7; 6:3-4). Do you know what you believe? Can you share it from Scripture? Devoted to fellowship We have been called to a new way of life. We need fellowship with one another -- not just once a week, but daily (Hebrews 10:19-25). We need fellowship with one another to encourage each other as the day is approaching! Devoted to breaking bread together Acts 2:46 We’ve been called to hospitality (Hebrews 13:1-2; 1 Peter 4:9). How many times did our Lord Jesus eat with his disciples and those to whom he ministered (Luke 14:12-14)? God wants His overseer’s to be hospitable (1 Timothy 3:2, Titus 1:8). Devoted to Prayer Acts 1:12-14; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2; Romans 12:9-13 Had all things common -- shared their abundance Acts 2:44-45; 32-35 “Not one of them claimed that anything belonging to him was his own.” What a radical thought! This was not a government program but rather a conviction in the heart to live as Christ directed. They sold their property and possessions and then shared with those in need. Could this happen in our western culture today or are we too filled with covetousness and greed? Jesus warned against greed. Luke 12:13-34; Hebrews 13:5-6 Be dependent on God, and put your trust in Him. Proverbs 3:5-10 Be content. 1 Timothy 6:8-10 Labor so you may have to give. Ephesians 4:28 Imagine if the church lived this way, not out of compulsion, but out of a desire to live like Jesus Christ. Acts 2:42-47 This they did daily. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day.
What If We Lived Like the 1st Century?
Isaiah 36:1 This was the 14thyear of the reign of Hezekiah. Isaiah was called in the year King Uzziah died (Isaiah 6:1). Isaiah’s ministry then spanned the time of four kings of Judah (Isaiah 1:1) and lasted at least 47 years. Uzziah 1 year (Isaiah 6:1) King Jotham 16 years (2Kings 15:32-33) King Ahaz16 years (2Kings 16:1-2) Hezekiah 14 years (or more) (Isaiah 36:1) ------------------------------------ A minimum of 47 years The geopolitical map of the world changed dramatically during this time in history. When Isaiah began his ministry,Assyria was not the dominating world power that it had become. The northern kingdom of Israel was still a sovereign nation with Samaria as its capital city. King Ahaz brought much evil to Judah(2Kings 16:2-4; 2Chronicles 28:16-25; Isaiah 7:1ff). Rather than trusting in Yahweh, he relied on the king of Assyria for help. This was his downfall. The Assyrian Empire rose to greatness during this time, defeating many nations including northern Israel and Syria. And now this mighty nation was about to defeat Judah as well. Under King Sennacherib,all the fortified cities were seized. The only thing remaining for the nation of Judah was the city of Jerusalem and King Hezekiah. All of the other fortified cities had been defeated. Isaiah 36:1ff King Sennacherib had sent Rabshakeh to speak to the leaders and people of Jerusalem in a propaganda campaign to weaken their resolve. Isaiah 37:1-7 Hezekiah tore his clothes and covered himself with sackcloth -a way of showing humility, penitence, and mourning.Isaiah’s first words to Hezekiah “Do not be afraid.” Isaiah 37:10-13 More of the message was sent to Hezekiah in a letter. Isaiah 37:14-20 Hezekiah took the letter and spread it out before Yahweh in the temple. Isaiah 37:21-35 Isaiah receives an answer from Yahweh to Hezekiah’s prayer. Isaiah 37:36-37 One angel of Yahweh defeated 185,000 Assyrians in one night! Total deliverance! Praise Yahweh!
Hezekiah and Deliverance from the Assyrians (Isaiah Part 3)
Last week we examined what the bible teaches about heaven. This week we’ll see what it says about hell. John Cortright explains there are three meanings of hell in scripture, including tartarus where fallen angels are temporarily imprisoned, hades/sheol where the dead remain until resurrection, and gehenna where the wicked are destroyed in the final Read more about 150 What Is Hell? (John Cortright)[…]
10: Justification by Vince Finnegan (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73
4: Sin by Sean Finnegan (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73
5: Cross by John Cortright (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73
21: Leadership Epistles by Vince Finnegan (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73
20: The Holy Spirit by John Cortright (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73
6: Resurrection by Jacob Rohrer (For a higher quality video visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73) We'll delve deep into Paul's epistles in an effort to better understand and live out our faith powerfully. Teachers include Vince Finnegan, Sean Finnegan, John Cortright, and Jacob Rohrer.... To read the rest of the description visit lhim.org/resouorces/classes.php?id=73