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Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Am I living in the Light--or just near it?Subtitle: Scripture: John 8:12-30Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"Have you ever tried going through an obstacle course blindfolded? The smallest obstacles become difficult obstructions. If we are not walking in the light of Christ, the obstacles that should not be a problem are great stumbling blocks to us. But when we have that light, we understand how to make our way through this dark world." -Hughes, p. 234Air Florida Flight ✈️ 90"Arland Williams and five others knew their situation was hopeless.Floating in the icy Potomac River, the six survivors of Air Florida Flight 90 knew there was no way to reach the shore just forty yards away.They could hear the rescuers trying to reach them, but each attempt to cross the icy waters failed. Just as they were giving up hope, they heard the sound of an approaching helicopter. A life ring fell into the hands of one of the survivors, and he was pulled to safety. Next it fell in Arland's hands. He could be saved. But before the helicopter could pull him up, he handed the life ring to someone else. The chopper could only hold two, so it turned toward the shore and sped away. Just a few minutes later it returned. Again the life ring fell into Arland's hands, and again he handed it to someone else. The third time he did the same.There would be no fourth opportunity. By the time the helicopter had returned, Arland had disappeared below the surface.In 2007 an article was written about Arland Williams's sacrifice and appeared in Men's Health magazine. After recounting Williams's story, the author of the article asks,Why would anyone put the lives of strangers ahead of his own?He couldn't even see the faces of the people he was saving, because they were on the opposite side of the wreckage, yet he made a sacrifice for them that their best friends might have refused. (McDougall, "The Hidden Cost of Heroism")The concepts of heroism and self-sacrifice puzzle the writer. Why would someone die for someone he didn't know? He tries to analyze it scientifically and concludes,Extreme heroism springs from something that no scientific theory can fully explain; it's an illogical impulse that flies in the face of biology, psychology, actuarial statistics, and basic common sense. (Ibid.)He even quotes Charles Darwin, who "couldn't figure out how to crowbar heroism into his survival-of-the-fittest theory" (ibid.). Darwin said,He who was ready to sacrifice his life, as many a savage has been, rather than betray his comrades, would often leave no offspring to inherit his noble nature. (Ibid.)After examining the story and different theories, the writer concludes that though the act was heroic, there would be no one to pass down the family name." Carter, pp. 189-190More on crash:https://www.perplexity.ai/search/44ed00c4-9db0-41ca-b62e-70378c94be00#0 OUTLINE (includes some input from ChatGPT)Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.Are You Living in the Light—or Just Near It?Illustration: “Lost in the Cave”A few years ago, a soccer team of twelve boys and their coach were trapped deep inside a cave in Thailand. Rising floodwaters had cut off their way out, and they were completely in the dark. One of the greatest challenges rescuers faced wasn't just the physical danger—it was the total absence of light. In complete darkness, there's no sense of direction, no way to move forward, no way to know what's safe or deadly. The first thing rescuers brought them wasn't food or even water—it was light. Only with light could they begin the journey toward life again.In John 8:12, Jesus says, “I am the light of the world.” Without Him, we are spiritually trapped—no direction, no hope. But with Him, we not only see clearly—we live.I. Jesus is the Light of the World (v. 12)Following Jesus means walking no longer in darkness.You receive the light of life—truth, clarity, and direction.Light is essential for spiritual life.Application:→ Walk in the light as He is in the light.→ Shine like stars in a dark and crooked world (Philippians 2:15).II. To Know Jesus is to Know God (v. 19)Jesus is one with the Father—there is no knowing God apart from Him.Religion without relationship with Jesus is still darkness.Application:→ Humble yourself and respond to God's call to know Him today.→ Don't settle for proximity to spiritual things—pursue Christ.III. Apart from Jesus, You Will Die in Your Sin(s) (vv. 21–24)Those who reject Jesus remain “of this world,” in rebellion.The consequence is not just spiritual wandering—it's spiritual death.Application:→ Believe that Jesus is who He says He is and will do what He promised.→ Without faith in Him, sin still owns you.IV. Follow Jesus the Way Jesus Followed the Father (vv. 25–30)Jesus lived sent—submissively, sacrificially, and obediently.He didn't act independently but responded to the Father in everything.Application:→ Follow Jesus in the same way: as a mission-minded, obedient light-bearer.→ You are now the light of the world on Jesus' behalf (Matthew 5:14–16).CONCLUSION 'Crazy Love'Francis Chan's mother died giving birth to him. The only affection he can remember receiving from his father lasted about thirty seconds when he was on the way to his stepmother's funeral aged nine. When he was twelve, his father also died. Francis cried, but also felt relieved. Francis is now a pastor. He and his wife, Lisa, have seven children. When his children were born, his own love for his children and his desire for their love was so strong that it opened his eyes to how much God desires and loves *us*. He said, ‘Through this experience, I came to understand that my desire for my children is only a faint echo of God's great love for me and for every person he made… I love my kids so much it hurts.' Calling his first book *Crazy Love*, he wrote, ‘The idea of Crazy Love has to do with our relationship with God. All my life I've heard people say, “God loves you.” It's probably the most insane statement you could make to say that the eternal Creator of this universe is in love with me. There is a response that ought to take place in believers, a crazy reaction to that love. Do you really understand what God has done for you? If so, why is your response so lukewarm?' The word ‘zeal' implies an *intense or passionate desire*. It can be misdirected, but as Paul writes, it is right to be zealous provided that the purpose is good (Galatians 4:18). Elsewhere he says, ‘Never be lacking in zeal' (Romans 12:11). Perhaps a good modern translation of the word ‘zeal' is ‘crazy love'.Bottom line: Jesus is the Light of the World. `To follow Him is to walk in light, know God, and live. To reject Him is to remain in darkness and die in your sin.Who do you trust?"All the time we each decide whom to trust. When we pick up medicine from the pharmacy, we trust our doctor who prescribed it and our pharmacist who prepared it. We also trust the company that developed it and the government that approved it, plus the people who trained the doctor and pharmacist and the many hands at the drug company who prepared and packaged it. When it comes to physical life, we trust our care to a lot of people. When it comes to your spiritual life, whom do you trust? Your authority is either yourself—what you think, how you feel, what you have experienced—or it's God and what he says. Do you really want to trust yourself with your eternal future? You are flesh. You didn't exist until thirty or fifty or eighty years ago. You can't keep yourself from getting sick or hurt. You cannot guarantee you will be alive tomorrow.Do you really think you're the best choice to be the ultimate authority in your life?" -CarterINVITATIONWhat about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESIsaiah 49:6 lightPsalm 27:1 light Exodus 14:19-20 lightMalachi 4:2 lightLuke 1:78-79 light Exodus 13:21–22Ephesians 5:8Matt 5:14; 13:43 Phil 2:15 stars in the skyNumbers 6:24-26 benedictionNumbers 9:15-22 cloud & FireJohn 3:14 lifted upIsaiah 43:11-13 "I am he"Imagine you're in a remote cabin deep in the woods. Night falls quickly, and darkness surrounds you. You fumble for a flashlight or a lantern, and there it is—sitting on the table, fully charged and ready.But instead of turning it on, you leave it sitting there. You try to find your way in the dark—bumping into furniture, stumbling over bags, even hurting yourself. You complain that it's too dark, that you can't see where you're going, that you're scared.And all the while… the light is right there.Jesus is the Light of the World. He's not a philosophy or an idea—He's a living Person who brings truth, clarity, and life. But you have to turn to Him. You have to walk in the light—not just be near it.Don't go home tonight bumping around in the dark when the Light has already come.Historical and Liturgical Background: Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)Timing:John 7–8 takes place during or just after the Feast of Tabernacles, one of the three major Jewish pilgrimage festivals. It commemorated Israel's 40 years in the wilderness after the Exodus, when God provided water, food, and guidance.The Setting of John 8:12:Jesus says, “I am the light of the world,” likely in the Temple courts (v. 20 specifies “in the temple treasury,” which was in the Court of Women).John 8:28 video link https://youtu.be/CZSlHdEoz40?si=OD54C1Ch0BKCQKc6The Four Giant CandelabrasDuring the Feast of Tabernacles, Jewish tradition says that in the Court of Women, the priests lit four huge candelabras (sometimes described as 75 feet tall) every night:Each had four golden bowls at the top, with strong young priests climbing ladders to fill them with oil and light them.The light was so bright, Jewish writings say, that “there was not a courtyard in Jerusalem that did not reflect the light from the Temple.”This lighting ceremony celebrated God's presence—especially the pillar of fire that guided Israel through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21–22).OUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC)The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW)“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT AIGrok AIPerplexity AIGoogle Gemini AI

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Would Jesus Cancel Me?"Subtitle: Scripture: John 7:53-8:11John 3:16-18; Matt 7:3-5Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"Cancel culture is a modern social phenomenon where individuals, organizations, or public figures are called out, boycotted, or publicly shamed—often on social media—for actions, statements, or behaviors that are considered offensive, harmful, or morally wrong.Here's a clear definition:Cancel culture refers to the practice of withdrawing support from someone—often publicly and collectively—due to something they've said or done that is viewed as objectionable or offensive, often without a process of forgiveness, dialogue, or restoration."-ChatGPT"(JK Rowling, author of Harry Potter) is a notable example of cancel culture targeting an individual recently:J.K. Rowling (Ongoing, Intensified 2020–2023)
, the author of the Harry Potter series, has faced sustained backlash for her comments on transgender issues, particularly since 2020. Her tweets and essays expressing concerns about the implications of transgender rights on women's spaces were labeled transphobic by critics, leading to widespread calls for boycotts of her books, films, and related media. Fans and organizations publicly distanced themselves, and some Harry Potter actors, like Daniel Radcliffe, openly opposed her views..." -Grok AIBlack Dot Analogy"The black dot analogy is a powerful metaphor often used to illustrate how people tend to focus on negative aspects or flaws—represented by a small black dot—while overlooking the broader, positive context--symbolized by a large white space surrounding it. It's frequently applied in discussions about judgment, perspective, and human behavior, particularly in the context of not judging others based on their worst moments or traits. Origins and Core ConceptThe black dot analogy often appears in motivational, psychological, and educational contexts. One common version...involves a classroom exercise where a professor presents students with a blank sheet of paper featuring a single black dot in the center. Students are asked to write about what they see, and invariably, they focus on the dot, ignoring the vast white space around it. The professor then explains that this mirrors how people fixate on small negatives in life—such as health issues, financial struggles, or personal failures—while neglecting the abundance of positive aspects, like relationships, opportunities, or blessings." -Grok AIThe Security Camera Moment"Imagine a moment you wouldn't want anyone to see—maybe you lost your temper, told a lie, or clicked on something you knew you shouldn't have. Now imagine that moment being played on a giant screen in the middle of your church, with everyone watching.That's what the woman caught in adultery was living. Her worst moment was dragged into the light, not in private, but publicly—before religious leaders, before a crowd, and before Jesus. But instead of condemnation, she encountered something completely unexpected: mercy." -Grok AI For our purposes today, cancel = condemn. When Jesus meets us in our guilt, he doesn't cancel or condemn us; he restores us to a new way to live.OUTLINE (input from ChatGPT)Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.Transition:If you look at John 8:1-11 in your bible, you may notice that it is in brackets, italics, or footnoted. In my bible, it's all in italics. I have wrestled all week with whether to preach this passage today or not. The reason is that this portion of John (8:1-11) is not in the earliest manuscripts. (that we have so far) It is in many manuscripts, however, it's not in the same place in those manuscripts. It's found in different places throughout the book of John. It's sometimes found in Luke as well. From this I draw 3 conclusions:It's probably not in the original book of John, meaning that I cannot consider it scripture for certain. Many of my commentaries just skip this passage with no comment. Others address it even though they do not see it as scripture. Other commentaries see value in it and address leaving this decision up to the reader. It very well could be a true event in the life of Jesus. I think this is a true account and that some who copied this down felt it was worthy of scripture. And maybe it is. But it doesn't meet the standard of what qualifies as scripture and not just history. (Add qualification of NT scripture here)It's worth our time to preach/teach it because it includes biblical principles and applications relevant to us and aligns with the rest of scripture. In other words, it's not going to take us somewhere we wouldn't otherwise go. The Bible Knowledge Commentary states, "It is probably a part of true oral tradition which was added to later Greek manuscripts by copyists." Blum, E. A. (1985). John. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 303). Victor Books.1. The Setup: Grace Confronts a Trap (vv. 1–6a)The scribes and Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery—not out of love for the law, but to trap Jesus.The law said such a sin was punishable by death (Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22), but this was clearly a setup:Where is the man?Why is this happening publicly in the temple?They use the woman's shame as a tool to undermine Jesus.Application: People still weaponize sin and shame to feel superior or to discredit others. But Jesus won't participate in that game.2. The Silence: Grace Slows the Fury (vv. 6b–8)Jesus bends down and writes on the ground. It's an intentional pause.It shifts attention away from the woman, lowers the emotional temperature, and gives space for reflection.His challenge—“Let him who is without sin cast the first stone”—puts judgment back where it belongs: in the hands of the truly holy.Matthew 7:3–5 (NIV)“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.”Application: Jesus slows the mob mentality. When we want to throw stones (even mental ones), Jesus reminds us to examine ourselves first.3. The Departure: Grace Exposes Everyone (vv. 9)One by one, they drop their stones and leave—starting with the oldest, perhaps because they had lived long enough to know their sin more clearly.Jesus' words don't just defend the woman—they shine a light on everyone present.Application: In the presence of Jesus, no one gets to act like they're righteous on their own.4. The Restoration: Grace Speaks a Better Word (vv. 10–11)“Where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord.”“Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on sin no more.”He doesn't ignore her sin—He lifts her from it. Grace first, then transformation.Application: Jesus is not soft on sin—He's strong on mercy. Grace doesn't excuse sin; it empowers change.Pastoral Notes/transition:This woman doesn't ask for forgiveness—Jesus simply gives it.The grace of Jesus doesn't depend on the eloquence of our repentance but on the fullness of His mercy.CONCLUSION "(Jesus) doesn't give her a license to keep sinning. He gives her a reason to stop." -M Carter"Is Jesus reversing the Mosaic system? No. He is placing His cross between that woman and her sin." -J. Vernon McGeeApplications:Jesus came to show us the way out from under our condemnation to mercy. Let God forgive you--and you yourself.Jesus is not soft on sin—He's strong on mercy. Let God find us quick to forgive instead of condemn or cancel.Grace doesn't excuse sin; it empowers change. Let God find us moving towards holy, pure living instead of compromised living.The Torn Report CardA student hides his report card from his parents—he's failed multiple classes and is ashamed. When the truth finally comes out, he expects anger, punishment, maybe rejection. But instead, his father gently says, “This doesn't change that you're my son. We're going to face this together. But we are going to face it.”That's the heart of Jesus in this story. He doesn't pretend our sin doesn't matter—but He makes sure we know: we don't face it alone, and we don't face it condemned.The Courtroom SurpriseImagine standing in court, guilty, and the judge reads the list of charges. The evidence is overwhelming. Then the judge steps down from the bench, walks toward you, and says, “I'll take your sentence.”That's what Jesus did—not just for the woman, but for each of us. He didn't just defend her; He bore her shame. He doesn't say, “You're not guilty.” He says, “I'll take the guilt.”Bottom line: Jesus meets us in our guilt not to condemn us, but to restore us to a new way of life.INVITATIONThe Dropped StonesPicture the sound that must've filled the temple courtyard that day—not just silence, but the clink and thud of stones hitting the ground one by one. That was the sound of people walking away from condemnation.And maybe today, that sound is what needs to happen in your own heart—not just dropping the stones you've been ready to throw at others, but dropping the ones you've been throwing at yourself.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"She's been disgraced. Then Jesus covers her disgrace with his grace. He levels the playing field by quietly, making each man admit his own sin, and then instead of condemning her, he forgives her. Not only does he forgive her, but he also transforms her future. He doesn't give her a license to keep sinning. He gives her a reason to stop." -M Carter"Is Jesus reversing the Mosaic system? No. He is placing His cross between that woman and her sin. This One who is the Son of the virgin, who Himself was under a cloud all of His life, is going to the cross to pay the penalty for even the sin of this woman. He did not come into the world to condemn the wold. (John 3:17) He did not come to judge this woman. He came into the world to be a Savior!" -J. Vernon McGee"We must not misinterpret this event to mean that Jesus was 'easy on sin' or that he contradicted the law. For Jesus to forgive this woman meant that he had to one day die for her sins. Forgiveness is free, but it is not cheap. Furthermore, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the law so that no one could just accuse him of opposing his teachings or weakening its power by applying the law to the woman, and not to themselves. The Jewish leaders were violating both the letter and the spirit of the law--and they thought they were defending Moses!The law was given to reveal sin (Romans 3:20), and we must be condemned by the law before we can be cleansed by God's grace. Law and grace do not compete with each other; they complement each other. Nobody was ever saved by keeping the law, but nobody was ever saved by grace, who was not first convicted by the law. There must be conviction before they can be conversion.Nor is Christ's gracious forgiveness an excuse to sin. "Go, and sin, no more!" was our Lord's counsel... Certainly the experience of gracious forgiveness would motivate the penitent sinner to live a holy and obedient life to the glory of God." -W WiersbeBlack Dot Analogy"The black dot analogy is a powerful metaphor often used to illustrate how people tend to focus on negative aspects or flaws—represented by a small black dot—while overlooking the broader, positive context, symbolized by a large white space surrounding it. It's frequently applied in discussions about judgment, perspective, and human behavior, particularly in the context of not judging others based on their worst moments or traits. Below, I'll explore the analogy's origins, its applications, and its relevance to your original query about a post on X regarding not judging people by their worst moments.Origins and Core ConceptThe black dot analogy often appears in motivational, psychological, and educational contexts. One common version, as described in sources like the Rotary e-Club of Houston and Medium, involves a classroom exercise where a professor presents students with a blank sheet of paper featuring a single black dot in the center. Students are asked to write about what they see, and invariably, they focus on the dot, ignoring the vast white space around it. The professor then explains that this mirrors how people fixate on small negatives in life—such as health issues, financial struggles, or personal failures—while neglecting the abundance of positive aspects, like relationships, opportunities, or blessings." -Grok AINT Canon - who decided what books?The process of recognizing the New Testament canon unfolded gradually over several centuries. Here's a brief timeline of how and when this happened:1st Century (c. 45–100 AD)The New Testament books were being written (e.g., Paul's letters, the Gospels, Acts, Revelation).Some letters were already being shared and read in various churches (e.g., see 2 Peter 3:15–16, where Paul's letters are referred to as Scripture).2nd Century (100–200 AD)Many churches were using core texts like the four Gospels, Acts, and Paul's letters.Early church leaders (like Irenaeus, c. 180 AD) affirmed the authority of these writings.Heretical movements (e.g., Marcionism, which rejected the Old Testament and some NT books) forced the church to clarify which writings were truly apostolic and orthodox.3rd Century (200–300 AD)More consensus was forming, especially around most of the current New Testament books.Disputed books included Hebrews, James, 2 Peter, 2–3 John, Jude, and Revelation.Church fathers like Origen and Cyprian used most of the New Testament books but noted which were disputed.4th Century (300–400 AD)Athanasius' Easter Letter (367 AD): This was the first known list to include exactly the 27 books of the New Testament as we have today.Councils of Hippo (393 AD) and Carthage (397 AD): These regional church councils affirmed the same list.While these councils didn't “create” the canon, they recognized and confirmed what many churches were already using.By the 5th CenturyThe 27-book New Testament was widely accepted across the Christian world.The canon was functionally closed, and later councils reaffirmed the same set of writings.So, while the New Testament canon wasn't decided at one single moment, by the end of the 4th century, the list of 27 books was largely settled and universally recognized in the church. -ChatGPTFrom me to ChatGPT: Would you say then that they were decided using an “open source” or “wiki” method?That's a great analogy—and yes, to an extent, the formation of the New Testament canon functioned somewhat like an “open source” or “wiki” process, though with important differences.Here's how the comparison fits:✅ Collaborative Process (like open source/wiki)The canon wasn't determined by a single person or moment.Churches across different regions contributed to the process by using, preserving, copying, and teaching from certain texts.Early church leaders and communities evaluated writings based on shared criteria, and over time a consensus emerged.✅ Organic DevelopmentBooks were recognized as authoritative because they were already functioning as such in Christian worship and teaching—not simply declared authoritative from above.The canon grew from usage and recognition rather than being imposed arbitrarily.Books were recognized as authoritative because they were already functioning as such in Christian worship and teaching—not simply declared authoritative from above.The canon grew from usage and recognition rather than being imposed arbitrarily.✅ Community DiscernmentJust like open-source projects evolve through community review and refinement, the canon evolved through careful theological reflection, discussion, and testing against apostolic truth. -ChatGPTBut here's where the analogy has limits:❌ Not Unlimited or Constantly EditableUnlike a true wiki, the canon wasn't meant to be open-ended or perpetually editable. Once consensus was reached, it was closed and considered authoritative and complete.The church believed that God's revelation in Christ—and through the apostles—was once for all (cf. Jude 1:3), not ongoing in the way an open-source codebase might be.❌ Guided by Theology, Not Just ConsensusTheological and spiritual discernment—especially about apostolicity and inspiration—played a key role. It wasn't just a democratic vote or popularity contest. -ChatGPTSummary:"Yes, the canonization process had a lot in common with an “open source” or “wiki-style” model—distributed, collaborative, community-tested—but it was also guided by deep convictions about divine revelation and was ultimately closed to preserve the apostolic foundation of the faith.The Councils of Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) were the most decisive early church gatherings to affirm the full 27-book New Testament canon. They didn't invent the canon but codified what had already become widespread consensus in the life of the church." -ChatGPTOUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie Newbigin (TLHC)The Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner (TVW)“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Thru The Bible with J. Vernon McGee (TTB)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT AIGrok AIPerplexity AIGoogle Gemini AI

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Why Do People Reject Jesus?”Subtitle: Scripture: John 7:1-52 Isaiah 55:1-7Jeremiah 2:13Deuteronomy 18:15-18, Acts 3:20-22Matthew 10:34-35Look for the drama in scriptureBottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONSome people in history seem to split the world in two. Say their name, and you immediately stir debate. Martin Luther King Jr.—hero of justice or dangerous disruptor? Galileo—scientific genius or arrogant heretic? Nelson Mandela, Joan of Arc, Malcolm X—each one beloved by some, opposed by others. But history's most polarizing figure? Jesus. No one sparked more debate, division, or devotion. And in John 7, we see that clearly. The question is: Why do people reject Him—and could we be doing the same?John Bunyan knew all about that and wrote, "There was a man, the world did think him mad, the more he gave away, the more he had."Feast of Tabernacles...Originally a harvest festival coming at the end of the last major harvest of the year (grapes). They celebrated God who brought the rain.Became a celebration of God's deliverance of Israel through the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness where God had to supernaturally supply them water for the whole nation in the desert.It had eschatological hopesFor the restoration of the nation of IsraelFor the ingathering of all nations under GodJesus presents himself as God's agent to make these end time events a reality. He does this as the source of life--abundant (like being celebrated during this festival) and eternal (like living water).Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.In his last 6 months, Jesus enters Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles surrounded by confusion, debate and division over who he is and why he matters. This is the context around his famous teaching about the Holy Spirit's role when he ascends and why he's called living water. OUTLINE (input from ChatGPT)1. Some reject Jesus because He doesn't follow their expectations.(John 7:1–10)Jesus' own brothers didn't believe because He didn't fit their agenda or timeline.We still wrestle with disappointment or control when Jesus won't do what we want, when we want.2. Some reject Jesus because His truth exposes their hypocrisy.(John 7:11–24)Jesus confronts those judging Him wrongly, especially for healing on the Sabbath.We resist truth when it challenges our comfort, image, or self-righteousness.3. Some reject Jesus because of assumptions and incomplete knowledge.(John 7:25–36)The crowd “knows” where Jesus is from and assumes He can't be the Christ.Spiritual blindness often comes from thinking we already understand everything.4. Some reject Jesus because they fear people more than God.(John 7:40–52)Division rises. Leaders pressure, mock, and dismiss. Nicodemus is silenced.Following Jesus means risking disapproval—but silence is a choice too.5. But Jesus still calls: If you're thirsty, come to Me and drink.(John 7:37–39)On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus invites all to receive living water—the Holy Spirit.Rejection isn't the end of the story. Jesus still offers Himself to anyone willing to come in faith.CONCLUSION Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life."For decades one of the first places immigrants to America landed was Ellis Island. They came hoping for a better life, longing for a chance to find happiness. Near Ellis Island was a statue, and the statue was an invitation. A poem by Emma Lazarus captured the invitation:"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"What a beautiful invitation. "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses." Jesus extends a better invitation. "Come, weary and broken. Come, thirsty and dying. Come to me and find life."" -Carter, p. 181The Lion"How are we to drink this water? Although the offer is free and open to all, there are yet some terms to be met. C. S. Lewis in his children's novel The Silver Chair puts his finger on this in the clearest of terms. Jill, seeing a lion, is scared out of her wits and runs into the forest. She runs so hard that she wears herself out and is just about to die of thirst, or so she thinks, when she hears the gurgling of a brook in the distance. She approaches it and is almost ready to go to the brook when on the grass before her is the same lion."Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion."I'm dying of thirst," said Jill."Then drink, " said the Lion."May I— could I-would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realized that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience. The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic."Will you promise not to — do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill."I make no promise,'" said the Lion.Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer."Do you eat girls?" she said. "I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and em-perors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it."I daren't come and drink," said Jill."Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion."Oh dear!" said Jill, coming another step nearer."I suppose I must go and look for another stream then.""There is no other stream," said the Lion.It never occurred to Jill to disbelieve the Lion —no one who had seen his stern face could do that-and her mind suddenly made itself up. It was the worst thing she had ever had to do, but she went forward to the stream, knelt down, and began scooping up water in her hand. It was the coldest, most refreshing water she had ever tasted.Do you see what Lewis is saying? When you come to the water, you are coming to a Lion, you must come on the Lion's terms, and you have to yield yourself by faith in order to get the water. Some of us need to realize that we are thirsty, that we need that water so badly that we are going to die without it. We need to step out on faith, yielding to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and receive the water of eternal life.INVITATIONWhat about you?Are you paralyzed by the confusion, division and debate over who Jesus is and what he came to do?““Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it's all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food. “Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious.” Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.”‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESJesus' brothers believed in Jesus but not the biblical Jesus; we see this all the timeJesus recognized that his brothers didn't believe in him as the Messiah yet though they'd lived with him for 30+ years; never sinned; Mary knowing who he was; favorite son; perfect son; resentment and sibling rivalry aboundsDoes Jesus divide people? (Yes)Family can be the toughest mission fieldFamily misunderstands when they don't believe in the biblical JesusReligious leaders miss the leader of their religion due to their self-righteousness, ambition and unbelief"Christ did not want to bring division. But because of the sinfulness of our hearts, because of our fallenness, because of our unwillingness to repent and bow to him, the Prince of Peace is Christ the Divider.When snow descends upon the Continental Divide, it melts and flows off either to the west or to the east, never to meet again. Christ is the continental divide in our lives. We will either go up with the morning stars or, to use Eliot's phrase, join the valley of the dying stars. Christ brings division to everyday life." -Hughes, p. 226Water"On the seven days of the Feast, a golden flagon was filled with water from the pool of Siloam and was carried in a procession led by the High Priest back to the temple. As the procession approached the watergate on the south side of the inner court three blasts from the shôphar - a trumpet connected with joyful occasions - were sounded. While the pilgrims watched, the priests processed around the altar with the flagon, the temple choir singing the Hallel (Pss. 113 - 118). When the choir reached Psalm 118, every male pilgrim shook a lulab (willow and myrtle twigs tied with palm) in his right hand, while his left raised a piece of citrus fruit (a sign of the ingathered harvest), and all cried 'Give thanks to the LORD!' three times. The water was offered to God at the time of the morning sacrifice, along with the daily drink-offering (of wine). The wine and the water were poured into their respective silver bowls, and then poured out before the LORD. Moreover, these ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles were related in Jewish thought both to the LorD's provision of water in the desert and to the Lord's pouring out of the Spirit in the last days. Pouring at the Feast of Tabernacles refers symbolically to the messianic age in which a stream from the sacred rock would flow over the whole earth." -Carson, p. 321-322"In general terms, then, Jesus' pronouncement is clear: he is the fulfil-ment of all that the Feast of Tabernacles anticipated." -Carson, p. 322OUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Does Jesus offend you?"Subtitle: “Does Jesus' uniqueness offend you or draw you?”Scripture: John 6:52-71Isaiah 52:13-53:12John 13:27Bottom line: Jesus' uniqueness makes him a polarizing figure. While drawing a few, his words offend many.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONBottom line: Jesus' uniqueness makes him a polarizing figure. While drawing a few, his words offend many.Does Jesus offend you?Apparently, the uniqueness of Jesus offended many in the first century...and today.The Battle Today Is Around Jesus"I have been involved in hosting or helping a small group on [Alpha](https://www.alpha.org/ ) for over thirty years. During this time, I have noticed a shift in our culture. There is a change in the attitude towards Jesus, especially among young people. Many will say that they believe in God and are even open to the idea of the Holy Spirit. But increasingly, Jesus has become the stumbling-block. Some youth and young people say things like, ‘I don't get the reason for *Jesus*.' As Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa has often said, ‘The battle today is around Jesus.' Is Jesus the universal Saviour? This is the same battle as the first century. People today are happy to accept Jesus as ‘one of many'. It is the uniqueness of Jesus that causes offence......while we meet some exceptional people throughout the Bible, like Moses, Joshua, Elijah and John the Baptist, there was no one like Jesus. Jesus is unique. He is the *universal Saviour*."The Bible with Nicky and Pippa Gumbel, Classic Version, 2025: Day 119 • DevotionalBottom line: Jesus' uniqueness makes him a polarizing figure. While drawing a few, his words offend many.Does Jesus offend you too?OUTLINE1. Trust & follow Jesus, even when His words offend you.Verses 52–59 • Jesus speaks of eating His flesh and drinking His blood—language that's deeply disturbing to His hearers. The Old Testament taught to not drink blood or eat meat with blood in it. • He doesn't explain it away, because following Him means trusting what we can't fully understand yet. His words are hard to understand and demanding. • Application: When Jesus offends your expectations, don't walk away—lean in and trust His word.2. Trust & follow Jesus, even when many turn away from His words.Verses 60–66 • Many disciples leave, calling His teaching too hard to accept. • Jesus says only the Spirit gives life—fleshly thinking won't grasp the kingdom. • Application: Don't measure truth by popular opinion—stay faithful to His word, even when others fall away.3. Trust & follow Jesus, because only He has what you truly need.Verses 67–69 • Peter's confession is both humble and bold: “To whom shall we go?” • Jesus alone has the words of eternal life. • Application: When you're tempted to quit, remember why you started—Jesus alone gives life. He is the Bread of Life.4. Examine your heart—proximity to Jesus is not the same as following His word.Verses 70–71 • Judas was chosen, included, and close—but not surrendered. • Even among the Twelve, there's a warning: not all who appear near truly believe. • Application: Don't just walk with Jesus outwardly—depend on His word inwardly.CONCLUSION Bottom line: Jesus' uniqueness makes him a polarizing figure. While drawing a few, his words offend many.Does Jesus offend you too?1. Trust & follow Jesus, even when His words offend you.2. Trust & follow Jesus, even when many turn away from His words.3. Trust & follow Jesus, because only He has what you truly need.4. Examine your heart—proximity to Jesus is not the same as following His word.This poem is what could happen to you and me if we fully embrace and believe Jesus is who he says he is and will do all he's promised to do:The Touch of the Master's Hand''Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer Thought it scarcely worth his while To waste much time on the old violin But held it up with a smile."What am I bid, good folks," he cried, "Who'll start the bidding for me?A dollar, a dollar—now two, only two-Two dollars, and who'll make it three?"Three dollars once, three dollars twice, Going for three"-but no!From the room far back a gray-haired man Came forward and picked up the bow;Then wiping the dust from the old violin And tightening up the strings, He played a melody, pure and sweet. As sweet as an angel sings.The music ceased, and the auctioneer With a voice that was quiet and low, Said: "What am I bid for the old violin?" And he held it up with the bow."A thousand dollars—and who'll make it two? Two thousand—and who'll make it three?Three thousand once and three thousand twice And going and gone," said he.The people cheered, but some of them cried, "We do not quite understandWhat changed its worth?" The man replied, "THE TOUCH OF THE MASTER'S HAND."And many a man with a life out of tune, And battered and torn with sin.Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd, Much like the old violin.A "mess of pottage," a glass of wine, A game and he travels on.He's going once and going twice, He's going—and almost—gone!But the MASTER comes, and the foolish crowd Never can quite understandThe worth of a soul, and the change that's wrought By the TOUCH OF THE MASTER'S HAND.Myra Brooks-WelchHas he touched you?Does he offend you?Bottom line: Jesus' uniqueness makes him a polarizing figure. While drawing a few, his words offend many.Does Jesus offend you too?INVITATIONWhat about you?Does Jesus offend you...or does he draw you?A Table Set by God • The Lord's Supper is a living illustration of this passage. The bread we break is a sign of the true bread from heaven-Jesus' body given for us. Every time we eat, we remember that our deepest hunger is met in Him.Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESFlesh = real food+ Blood = real drinkReal life/eternal lifeEats/drinks = remains/abides/believes as seen in rhythms/habits/means of grace (Acts 2:36-47)wordPrayerServeGiveWorshipShareThe Father sent Jesus, alive and well because of the FatherJesus sent Disciples, alive and well because of JesusBread from heaven = Jesus the Christ => spiritual lifebread from heaven (manna) = physical nourishment => physical life60-71Hard (to hear) teaching (harsh; offensive) => grumbling ie. Unbelief"Does this offend you?" "Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before?" Reminds them that he stated that he came from God.Spirit => lifeFlesh => Ø or deathWords => Spirit => LifeYet, some still did not believeOUTLINESOutline Bible (Willmington) -- SECTION OUTLINE SIX JOHN 6 Jesus feeds the 5,000 and walks on water. He teaches that he is the "bread from heaven" and that all who wish to have eternal life must eat his flesh and drink his blood. Many of his followers, unable to accept this difficult symbolism, desert him. I. TWO MIRACLES (6:1-24) A. First miracle (6:1-15): Jesus feeds the 5,000.B. Second miracle (6:16-24): Jesus walks on water. II. Two MESSAGES (6:25-71) A. Public comments (6:25-66)Christ and the curious (6:25-40)a. He speaks concerning God's salvation (6:25-36). (1) Their confusion (6:25-26, 28, 30-31, 36) (a) They want to know how he got there (6:25).(b) They seek him only for physical bread (6:26). (c) They don't know how to please God (6:28). (d) They assume the Old Testament manna came from Moses (6:30-31). (e) They don't believe in him even though they have seen him (6:36). (2) His correction (6:27, 29, 32-35) (a) They are to seek him for spiritual bread (6:27, 33-35). (b) They will please God by believing in him (6:29). (c) He says the Old Testament manna came from God (6:32). b. He speaks concerning God's sovereignty (6:37-40). (1) Guaranteeing that all the elect will come to Christ (6:37): They will never be rejected (2) Guaranteeing that all the elect will continue in Christ (6:38-40): All who believe in him will be raised at the last day. 2. Christ and the critical (6:41-59) a. Their criticism (6:41-42, 52) (1) He is simply the son of Joseph (6:41-42). (2) No one can (physically) eat his flesh and drink his blood (6:52). b. His correction (6:43-51, 53-59) (1) Jesus says he is the bread of life (6:43-51). (2) Jesus says that anyone who wants eternal life must (spiritually) eat his flesh and drink his blood (6:53-59). 3. Christ and the carnal (6:60-66) a. Many of his followers now decide against him (6:60-65). b. Many of his followers now depart from him (60:66).QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google GeminiGrok Perplexity

You need to see a doctor.

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “What Difference Does the Resurrection Make?"Scripture: John 11:25-26John 20:19-22Bottom line: The resurrection gives us power for today and hope for tomorrow.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONHow to Pray with Power by Nicky Gumbel"I received a call from someone in our church. He wanted me to go and pray for his wife who had suddenly been admitted to hospital for an operation. As it happened, I myself had an appointment nearby to have an injection in my shoulder. I'd had a ‘frozen shoulder' for almost two years. However, in the previous couple of days, it had suddenly got better. I explained what had happened to the consultant. He looked at me and said, ‘It's a miracle!' I said, ‘Don't frozen shoulders suddenly get better?' Over and over again, he repeated, ‘No, it is a miracle.' Here was a secular doctor trying to persuade a rather faithless pastor that what had happened could only be explained by the supernatural power of God!I thanked him very much for raising my faith, as I was about to go and pray in the hospital. As I walked through the corridors, I passed a hospital porter who was singing (quite loudly!), ‘Lay your hands on the sick and they will be healed.' I said, ‘That is exactly what I am about to go and do.' He looked deeply shocked and surprised. He obviously didn't think I looked like the sort of person who could possibly believe that!I went upstairs to pray for the woman and explained why my faith was riding high. She then said she had been reading James 5 (our passage for today), which says, ‘Is any one of you sick? Call the elders of the church to pray over you… And the prayer offered in faith will make you well' (James 5:14–15). By now the Lord had given (even me!) enough signs to pray in faith. The Holy Spirit came upon her with great power. She was not immediately healed (although she is better now), but it gave me a greater understanding of ‘the prayer of faith'.Watchman Nee wrote, ‘Our prayers lay the track down which God's power can come. Like a mighty locomotive, his power is irresistible, but it cannot reach us without rails.'"Bible in One Year 2020 With Nicky Gumbel: Day 325 • DevotionalBottom line: The resurrection gives us power for today and hope for tomorrow.“What Difference Does the Resurrection Make?”Answer: It gives us power for today and hope for forever. Big Idea: The resurrection of Jesus isn't just a belief—it's power for your real life. First, Jesus reveals himself further to his disciples by announcing that he is the resurrection and the life.I. "I am the resurrection and the life" - Jesus says he's life; his power is unstoppableJesus isn't just alive--he's life itself.Death is only defeated by life.Second, Jesus appears in his resurrection body to the cowering disciples following his resurrection. He gives them his personal presence to overcome their fear, peace in the midst of chaos, their mission as the broken to the broken, and His Holy Spirit and resurrection power over darkness and evil.1. Jesus shows up helping them overcome their fear. (John 20:19)“The doors were locked where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews.”Context: The disciples were terrified—Jesus was dead, they were next.But then: Jesus enters locked rooms. Resurrection power doesn't need your permission—it comes through fear.Application:Where are you hiding? What fear is keeping you locked up?If Jesus can enter that room, He can enter yours—your anxiety, your regret, your trauma.2. Jesus Gives Peace in the midst of chaos. (John 20:19, 21)“Jesus said to them, ‘Peace be with you.'”He doesn't say “Everything's fine.” He says, “I'm here.”Peace is not the absence of trouble—it's the presence of Jesus.Application:What if peace isn't about getting out of your situation, but inviting Jesus into it?Resurrection means your circumstances don't get the last word.3. Jesus restores their mission as the broken to the broken. (John 20:21)“As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”These are the same guys who abandoned Him—but He still calls them.The resurrection doesn't just restore life—it restores calling.Application:Have you disqualified yourself in your own mind?Jesus doesn't just forgive your past—He commissions your future.4. Jesus Gives You His Spirit and resurrection power over darkness and evil. (John 20:22)“He breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'”The same breath that filled Adam with life in Genesis now fills disciples with resurrection power.Application:This isn't about trying harder to live better. It's about receiving the life only He can give.The Holy Spirit is resurrection applied—personal, powerful, present.Conclusion: “Do You Believe This?” (John 11:26)Back to John 11, Jesus asks Martha, "Do you believe this?"Jesus asked Martha that question before He raised Lazarus.He's asking you the same question today.Bottom line: The resurrection gives us power for today and hope for tomorrow.In September 2019 I was in a coaching cohort led by pastor and author Mike Breen. He was challenging us to imitate Peter's last healing (Acts) where he said, "Jesus heals you." (Instead of seeing himself as the healer)In preparation for that day's cohort, I wrote the following things I think would change in my life if I lived as if the sky had opened up and the resurrection power of God was available to me like it was to Jesus:I'd teach and preach with more authority given to me by Jesus MessiahI'd rely more on the Holy Spirit believing that he connects me with heaven.I'd be more likely to pray for healing over anyone—even a stranger. I'd be more evangelistically bold. I would assume that God will be putting opportunities in front of me over and over again to lead people to Christ. I would spend more extended time in prayer early in the morning/late at night.I would take more mini-retreats.I would gather with the saints for prayer more often and less formally.I'd fast and pray more.I would find myself more in the harvest than I am. Away from the church building and amongst the people. Especially needy people. The least, last and lost.I would be less concerned with the things of this world. I would live simply and not pursue trivial pursuits.I would be more about making disciples and less about building the church (though in making disciples I will build the Church).I would be more kingdom-minded. I'd constantly be looking for people of peace.I'd live fearlessly.I'd walk in truth, wisdom and love.I'd have a spirit of power, love and self-control. (2 Tim 1:7)I'd see suffering as an opportunity to fellowship more deeply with Christ instead of the pain that it is.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"Imitating Peter," Sept 2019, MMQB I wroteMike Breen asked us to consider the following in preparation for our huddle tomorrow. Here are my thoughts…Mike points to Peter's last healing in scripture in Acts where he says, “Jesus heals you.”In Mark 15:33- we see the curtain in the temple torn from top to bottom after Jesus dies on the cross. This rending is symbolic of our new, unfettered access to heaven and God. An access that Jesus enjoyed while walking among us.Jesus had direct access to heaven. If not before, he received it at his baptism when the Holy Spirit descended on him like a dove. (Mark 1:11) There the “sky is torn” demonstrating an opening of access to Jesus that ushered in his earthly and amazing public ministry culminating in the cross and resurrection.Jesus lived under this open heaven enjoying a supernatural connection to God through his Holy Spirit. This rending of the curtain signified a breaking away from the Old Testament. A New Testament is at hand.So our access is now open to heaven as well. We now seem to have the same access that Jesus had while on earth. Is this what Peter is trying to say through Mark in his gospel, Mike Breen asks?Jesus removes the barrier of the sky and curtain between us and heaven. Therefore, what Jesus experienced uniquely is generally available. Peter is explaining what Jesus' practice is all about through Mark's gospel, he thinks.This reminded me of Mark 2 and the paralytic. “Which is easier to say…”Mike can't leave the question unanswered why does Peter's last healing does he say, “Jesus Christ heals you”?Here's Mike's sermon question he's going to preach soon (Luke 3 message at Apex):“What would it be like if we left today with the actual belief that heaven is open above you and the Holy Spirit is continuously connecting to you?”So our homework is to wrestle with my ministry practice and teaching and ask what would it look like (my practice and teaching) if I started functioning like Peter was doing? I.e. Imitating Peter in Mark and ActsSo I need to re-read Mark and Acts 1-8. At first blush, I think I would say the following:I'd teach and preach with more authority given to me by Jesus MessiahI'd rely more on the Holy Spirit believing that he connects me with heaven.I'd be more likely to pray for healing over anyone—even a stranger. I'd be more evangelistically bold. I would assume that God will be putting opportunities in front of me over and over again to lead people to Christ. I would spend more extended time in prayer early in the morning/late at night.I would take more mini-retreats.I would gather with the saints for prayer more often and less formally.I'd fast and pray more.I would find myself more in the harvest than I am. Away from the church building and amongst the people. Especially needy people. The least, last and lost.I would be less concerned with the things of this world. I would live simply and not pursue trivial pursuits.I would be more about making disciples and less about building the church (though in making disciples I will build the Church).I would be more kingdom-minded. I'd constantly be looking for people of peace.I'd live fearlessly.I'd walk in truth, wisdom and love.I'd have a spirit of power, love and self-control. (2 Tim 1:7)I'd see suffering as an opportunity to fellowship more deeply with Christ instead of the pain that it is.OUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Are we ready to celebrate AND surrender to Jesus?"Scripture: John 12:9-2511:47-48,Psalm 118:19-26,Zechariah 9:9-10,Luke 14:25-33,2 Corinthians 4:16-18Bottom line: We will follow Jesus in celebration AND surrender when we see him clearly.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONTitanic compartmentalization.Bottom line: We will follow Jesus is celebration AND surrender when we see him clearly.Outline (Kent Hughes)I. The King Presented (12-19)Context - 3 groups come and intercept Jesus and his followersPilgrims coming to purify themselves before the PassoverLocals and pilgrims who saw Jesus raise Lazarus from the deadReligious leaders furious and bent on execution for blasphemy"Hosanna" = Save! (Ps 118)Donkey's colt (Zech 9:9-10)Delayed understanding"The whole world has gone after him."II. The King Pursed (20-22)Greeks = Gentile truth seekers"We would like to see Jesus" --continuous senseIII. The King's Proclamation (12:24-26)Jesus' response to their inquiry but to everyoneTo live you must die--to do this life that you will live in this life and beyondDies "alone" - “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” ‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭24‬ ‭ESV‬‬To die alone is to die but not be buried in the ground. To die and be put into the ground leads to life in this parable.https://bible.com/bible/59/jhn.12.24.ESVNo exceptionsDie => Follow => Serve => HonorCrown preceded by the cross/crucifixionFor JesusFor usAdditionalThe Triumphal Entry of Jesus is one of the most well-known events in the Gospels, and it's rich with meaning. It's recorded in all four Gospels: Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19.Here's the basic scene:It happens at the beginning of what we now call Holy Week, (Sunday) just a few days before Jesus' crucifixion (Friday). Jesus is approaching Jerusalem, and as He nears the city, He sends two of His disciples to find a donkey and her colt, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 — “See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey.”Riding a donkey (instead of a war horse) was deeply symbolic. It showed that He came not as a conquering military leader but as the humble, peaceful Messiah. As He rides into Jerusalem, crowds gather and spread their cloaks and palm branches on the road. They shout:“Hosanna to the Son of David!”“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”“Hosanna” means “save us,” so they were both praising Him and calling out for deliverance. The crowd was hoping for a political savior to overthrow Roman rule, but Jesus had come to bring a far greater salvation — freedom from sin and death.This moment is full of contrasts:He's welcomed as a king, but within days, He will be rejected and crucified.The crowds are shouting praise, but soon many will shout, “Crucify Him!”It fulfills prophecy and shows Jesus embracing His mission, knowing exactly where it will lead.It's called the “Triumphal Entry,” but the triumph is not in immediate victory — it's in Jesus walking the path of suffering for our salvation. The Triumphal Entry is saturated with Old Testament echoes and themes that quietly (or loudly!) proclaim Jesus as the true King, the Messiah, and the sacrificial Lamb. Let's unpack a few:Zechariah 9:9 — King Comes on a Donkey“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”Jesus intentionally fulfills this prophecy. Kings sometimes rode donkeys in the ancient Near East to symbolize peace. When Solomon was crowned, he rode King David's mule (1 Kings 1:33–35). So Jesus riding a donkey is a royal claim — but a humble, peaceful one. He's not coming as a warlord; He's coming as the Prince of Peace.Psalm 118:25–26 — The Hosanna PsalmThe crowd shouts:“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”This is a direct quote from Psalm 118, a psalm used in pilgrim festivals, especially Passover. “Hosanna” originally meant “save us now!” — it's a plea for salvation and a cry of praise. Psalm 118 also speaks of the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone, which Jesus applies to Himself later in the week (Matthew 21:42).Palm Branches — Victory and KingshipPalm branches were symbols of victory and kingship, often associated with Jewish nationalism (think of the Maccabean Revolt about 150 years earlier, where palm branches celebrated military victory). The crowd is treating Jesus like a conquering hero, anticipating national deliverance from Rome.(See notes below for more)Transition:"So, when Jesus rides into Jerusalem, He's not just making a political statement — He's weaving together centuries of prophecy, promise, and hope. He is the promised King, the humble servant, the Passover Lamb, the cornerstone, and the very presence of God returning to His people.And of course, all of this sets the stage for the cross. The King enters not to take power by force, but to lay down His life." -ChatGPTConclusion:Bottom line: I can trust God with everything, even when in need, because he provides, he cares, and he is with us.George Mueller, champion of orphans in England when asked, "What has been the secret of your life?" hung his head and said, "There was a day when I died." Then he bent lower and said, "Died to George Müller, his opinions, preferences, tastes, and will; died to the world, its approval or censure; died to the approval or blame even of brethren or friends." -Hughes, p. 307-308What about you?Do you celebrate Jesus but not surrender to his rule and reign? The latter undoes the former. Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"George Müller (1805–1898) was a Christian evangelist and the founder of the Ashley Down orphanages in Bristol, England. Originally from Prussia (modern-day Germany), Müller lived a rebellious youth but experienced a profound conversion in his early twenties. Moved by compassion and a deep trust in God's provision, he established homes for orphaned children at a time when many were homeless and destitute.What set Müller apart was his radical reliance on prayer. He famously never solicited funds directly but trusted God to provide for the needs of thousands of children under his care. Over his lifetime, Müller cared for over 10,000 orphans, established schools, and distributed vast numbers of Bibles and tracts. His legacy continues as a testimony to God's faithfulness and the power of prayerful dependence.If you want, I can also give you some powerful quotes or stories from his life!Of course — here's a quick bio on George Müller:George Müller (1805–1898) was a Christian evangelist and the founder of the Ashley Down orphanages in Bristol, England. Originally from Prussia (modern-day Germany), Müller lived a rebellious youth but experienced a profound conversion in his early twenties. Moved by compassion and a deep trust in God's provision, he established homes for orphaned children at a time when many were homeless and destitute.What set Müller apart was his radical reliance on prayer. He famously never solicited funds directly but trusted God to provide for the needs of thousands of children under his care. Over his lifetime, Müller cared for over 10,000 orphans, established schools, and distributed vast numbers of Bibles and tracts. His legacy continues as a testimony to God's faithfulness and the power of prayerful dependence." -ChatGPTKey Themes in the PassageJesus' fame is peaking — His miracle with Lazarus draws crowds and stirs belief.Conflict intensifies — The religious leaders feel threatened and plan to destroy both Lazarus and Jesus.Messianic hopes rise — The crowd greets Jesus as King, but their expectations are political and immediate.Fulfillment of prophecy — Jesus knowingly fulfills Scripture, showing He is the promised King, though His kingdom is not what they expect.Misunderstood glory — Even the disciples don't grasp the full meaning until after the resurrection. -ChatGPTGenesis 49:10–11 — The King from JudahJacob's blessing over Judah includes a fascinating image:“The scepter will not depart from Judah… He will tether his donkey to a vine, his colt to the choicest branch.”The image of the donkey and colt ties Jesus back to this prophecy of a ruler from the tribe of Judah — which Jesus is.Timing: Passover Lamb Selection DayThis one is stunning. Jesus enters Jerusalem on the 10th of Nisan, the day Jewish families selected their Passover lambs (Exodus 12:3). He is, in effect, presenting Himself as the Lamb of God, chosen for sacrifice. John the Baptist had already called Him this in John 1:29 — “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”God's Glory Returning to the Temple (Ezekiel 43:1–5)Ezekiel saw a vision of God's glory returning to the temple from the east. Jesus, the embodiment of God's glory, approaches Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives to the east (Luke 19:37). There's a sense that God is coming back to His house — though, heartbreakingly, many will not recognize Him. -RC SproulFrom RC Sproul“In the intertestamental period, something took place that would define the Jewish people in terms of their national identity for centuries to come. In the second century BC, the temple was desecrated by Antiochus IV Epiphanes, leader of the Seleucid Empire. In response, a Jewish man named Mattathias, who was committed to the ancient covenant of Israel, determined to rescue the temple and the nation from the invasion of the Seleucids. Mattathias became the leader of a guerrilla group that fought against the Seleucids. When he died, the leadership of this insurrectionist movement passed to his son Judas, who became known as Judas Maccabaeus, which means “the hammer.” Judas Maccabaeus became a national hero, a Hebrew Robin Hood, who wreaked havoc among the troops of the Seleucids. He put so much pressure on the Seleucids that in 164 BC they released the temple for the Jews to practice their own faith. That event was met with so much celebration that a new feast was instituted called the Feast of Dedication or the Feast of Lights. We know it as Hanukkah, which is celebrated even to this day. Later, Judas' brother Simon Maccabaeus actually drove the Seleucids out of Jerusalem altogether, and when that happened he was acclaimed a national hero and was celebrated with a parade, something like a ticker-tape parade in New York. In that parade, the Jews celebrated his victory with music and with the waving of palm branches. At that point in Jewish history, the palm branch became significant .. as a sign and symbol of a military victory, of a triumph. In fact, that symbolism became so deeply rooted in the Jewish consciousness that when the Jews revolted against the Romans in the decade of the sixties AD, they dared to mint their own coins with the image of a palm branch, because it is their national symbol of victory. When the people waved their palm branches to welcome Jesus, they cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!' The King of Israel!” (v. 13b) Why did they say this? The word hosanna is derived from a Hebrew word that literally means “save now.” Both this plea and “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD” are found in the hallel, a series of psalms that were sung every morning at the Feast of Tabernacles. The series starts with Psalm 113 and goes through Psalm 118. In Psalm 118, we find these words: Open to me the gates of righteousness; I will go through them, And I will praise the LORD. This is the gate of the LORD, through which the righteous shall enter. I will praise You, for You have answered me, and have become my salvation. The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save now, I pray, O LORD; O LORD, I pray, send now prosperity. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We have blessed you from the house of the LORD. (vv. 19–26) Every Jewish pilgrim was familiar with the words from the hallel, so when the crowds came out to see Jesus, they naturally used those words. The plea “Save now” near the end of the quoted passage is the English translation of the root word of hosanna. The words “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD” and the additional description shouted by the people, “the King of Israel!” indicate that the people looked to Jesus for salvation, though most likely in a military sense.”John - An Expositional CommentaryR.C. SproulOUTLINESSee above.QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Can I Trust Jesus With Everything?”Scripture: John 6:1-21Psalm 41:1-4Bottom line: I can trust God with everything, even when in need, because he provides, he cares, and he is with us.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONThe Tightrope Walker and the WheelbarrowIn the 19th century, a famous tightrope walker named Charles Blondin became famous for walking across Niagara Falls on a rope. Niagara Falls has three main waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The entire width of Niagara Falls (including all three sections) is about 3,950 feet (1,204 meters), or roughly ¾ of a mile wide.It's height ranges from 90 to 181 feet high (9 to 18 stories)He performed the stunt multiple times, each time adding a new challenge—walking blindfolded, on stilts, even carrying a stove and cooking an omelet in the middle of the rope.One day, a huge crowd gathered to watch as he planned to push a wheelbarrow across the rope. Before starting, he asked the crowd, “Do you believe I can push this wheelbarrow across the falls?”The crowd cheered, “Yes! We believe!”Then Blondin pointed to a man in the front and asked, “Do you trust me enough to get in the wheelbarrow?”The man froze. Believing from the sidelines was easy. But trusting enough to get in? That was a different question.Can I trust Jesus with everything?It's one thing to say we believe Jesus can provide, protect, and lead us. But do we trust Him enough to truly depend on Him with everything? To put our whole lives in His hands?That's the question in John 6:1-21—the disciples and the crowd see Jesus' miracles, but will they truly trust Him? Will we?“Can I Trust Jesus With Everything?”Bottom line: I can trust God with everything, even when in need, because he provides, he cares, and he is with us.I. Answer: Yes, You Can Trust Jesus With Everything.Jesus provides abundantly (He cares) (John 6:1-15): Jesus doesn't just meet immediate needs—He provides more than enough.Jesus steps into our storms (He is with us) (John 6:16-21): He walks on the water to His disciples, showing He has control over the chaos we face.Jesus offers eternal life (He is able) (John 6:35): He's not just here to meet temporary needs; He's the Bread of Life, offering lasting satisfaction.II. Why Can I Trust Jesus? (He Cares & Provides because He is Able)He is the Provider (He cares)"The problem, of course, was how to meet the needs of such a vast crowd of people. Four solutions were proposed.First, the disciples suggested that Jesus send the people away..." (No, hungry people faint. Plus almost night.)Second, buy food. That's a lot of money. Remote place. Third, get people to share their food. Way too little.Fourth, trust the Lord to provide. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 309). Victor Books.In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus shows He has the power to meet physical needs abundantly, even when resources seem scarce.Why trust Him? He is the One who provides for our needs, and He does so with more than enough.He is Present in Our Struggles (He is with us)Jesus meets His disciples in the middle of their storm, walking on water to reassure them.Why trust Him? He sees us, is present with us in our difficulties, and has the power to bring peace.He is the Source of Eternal Life (He is able)Jesus offers Himself as the Bread of Life, the one who satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger.Why trust Him? His provision goes beyond the temporary—He offers us eternal life.III. How Do I Trust Jesus?Offer What You Have (John 6:9) (Hint: Something & Everything)Like the boy with the loaves and fish, bring what little you have to Jesus and trust Him to multiply it for His purposes."The practical lesson is clear: whenever there is a need, give all that you have to Jesus and let Him do the rest. Begin with what you have, but be sure you give it all to Him." Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 309). Victor Books.What You Give to God, He MultipliesHattie May Wiatt, a six-year-old girl, lived near Grace Baptist Church in Philadelphia, USA. The Sunday school was very crowded. Russell H. Conwell, the minister, told her that one day they would have buildings big enough to allow everyone to attend. She said, ‘I hope you will. It is so crowded I am afraid to go there alone.' He replied, ‘When we get the money we will construct one large enough to get all the children in.' Two years later, in 1886, Hattie May died. After the funeral Hattie's mother gave the minister a little bag they had found under their daughter's pillow containing 57 cents in change that she had saved up. Alongside it was a note in her handwriting: ‘To help build bigger so that more children can go to Sunday school.' The minister changed all the money into pennies and offered each one for sale. He received $250 – and 54 of the cents were given back. The $250 was itself changed into pennies and sold by the newly formed ‘Wiatt Mite Society'. In this way, her 57 cents *kept on multiplying*. Twenty-six years later, in a talk entitled, ‘The history of the 57 cents', the minister explained the results of her 57-cent donation: a church with a membership of over 5,600 people, a hospital where tens of thousands of people had been treated, 80,000 young people going through university, 2,000 people going out to preach the gospel – all this happened ‘because Hattie May Wiatt invested her 57 cents'. The theme of multiplication runs throughout the Bible. What cannot be achieved by addition, God does by multiplication. You reap what you sow, only many times more. What you give to the Lord, he multiplies.How to trust Him? Give Jesus what you have, even if it seems small, and trust He can do more with it than you can imagine.If the only thing you have to offer is a broken heart, you offer a broken heart. So in a time of grief, the recognition that this is material for sacrifice has been a very great strength for me. Realizing that nothing I have, nothing I am will be refused on the part of Christ, I simply give it to him as the little boy gave Jesus his five loaves and two fishes — with the same feeling of the disciples when they said, "What is the good of that for such a crowd?"Naturally in almost anything I offer to Christ, my reaction would be, "What is the good of that?" The point is, the use he makes of it is none of my business; it is his business, it is his blessing. So this grief, this loss, this suffering, this pain — whatever it is, which at the moment is God's means of testing my faith and bringing me to the recognition of who he is —that is the thing I can offer.Do you have nothing to give? Then give that. Your nothing plus God is everything. We need to believe that God is big enough, that he wants to help us. Then we must give our problem to him. May we set aside our pride and give it all to him."Recognize His Presence in the Storm (John 6:19-20) (He is with you; Immanuel, God with us)Did Jesus know that a storm was coming? Of course. Then why did He deliberately send His friends into danger? Quite the opposite is true: He was rescuing them from greater danger, the danger of being swept along by a fanatical crowd. But there was another reason for that storm: the Lord has to balance our lives; otherwise we will become proud and then fall. The disciples had experienced great joy in being part of a thrilling miracle. Now they had to face a storm and learn to trust the Lord more. The feeding of the 5,000 was the lesson, but the storm was the examination after the lesson.Sometimes we are caught in a storm because we have disobeyed the Lord. Jonah is a good example. But sometimes the storm comes because we have obeyed the Lord. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 310). Victor Books.When life feels overwhelming, turn to Jesus. When the disciples invite Him into the boat, the storm calms.How to trust Him? In the midst of your struggles, look for Jesus and invite Him into your situation. Trust that He will bring peace.Conclusion:Bottom line: I can trust God with everything, even when in need, because he provides, he cares, and he is with us.Can I trust God with some things?I often use a stool to represent trusting God with everything. This is represented by me sitting on the stool with my full weight believing it will hold me up and not collapse in front of everyone with me on it.I sometimes trust God with travel. *puts car keys on the stool*I sometimes trust God with my health. *puts medicine/pills on the stool*I sometimes trust God with my marriage. *puts wedding ring on the stool*I sometimes trust God with my finances. *puts wallet on the stool*I sometimes trust God with my education. *puts class ring on the stool*But until I sit on the stool, my faith is only temporary and not saving faith because I'm not putting the full weight of my life on the stool. I'm not fully relying on God to carry me through life no matter what I'm going through.Can you trust Jesus with everything? Yes. Jesus is fully trustworthy because He provides abundantly, steps into your struggles, and offers eternal life. To trust Him, offer what you have, recognize His presence in your struggles, and receive His words of life.What about you?Has God warned you?Do you hear his warning? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"Regard the weak"Psalm 41:1-4 shows us how God blesses those who "regard the weak" by blessing them. God blesses those who do this. David also gives us a one verse prayer asking God to forgive us for not regarding the weak as we should."I am, I am"“In all of these sayings, Jesus prefaced descriptions of His office by a strange combination of Greek words, ego eimi. The word ego in Greek means “I am.” We get the word ego from it. But the word eimi also means “I am.” If you put them together, ego eimi literally means “I am, I am,” as if one were stuttering”“In order to understand what Jesus was doing, we need to look at the Greek translation of the Old Testament, where we see that the ineffable name of God, Yahweh, was translated into the Greek language by this same strange construction, ego eimi, which can be translated “I AM WHO I AM” (Ex. 3:14). Therefore, almost every commentator recognizes that when Jesus said, “I am the door,” “I am the bread of life,” and other “I am” sayings, He was using the divine name for Himself.”“However, when scholars enumerate the “I am” sayings in the Gospel of John, they don't include Jesus' statement here: “It is I; do not be afraid.” I'm not sure why, because it's exactly the same structure, ego eimi. Jesus said to His disciples, “Don't be afraid. It is I AM WHO I AM.”Excerpts From John - An Expositional Commentary, R.C. SproulChrist carries his people“There's an illustration here. I don't want to be maudlin, but this is the way our lives are. This story is not a parable; it is a historical narrative. However, it certainly illustrates what happens when Jesus comes into our lives. Life is a time of pulling against the oars, against resistance, trying to get somewhere. However, we're not getting anywhere and we're about to be engulfed. But as soon as Jesus gets in the boat, we're home free. That's what happens when Christ comes into the lives of His people. He doesn't take away all difficulties and make our lives beds of ease, but He gets us through the darkness. He gets us through the violence. He carries us through the storm.”R.C. Sproul"Gave thanks"It is significant that twice John mentioned the fact that Jesus gave thanks (John 6:11, 23). Matthew, Mark, and Luke all state that Jesus looked up to heaven when He gave thanks. By that act, He reminded the hungry people that God is the source of all good and needful gifts. This is a good lesson for us: instead of complaining about what we do not have, we should give thanks to God for what we do have, and He will make it go fartherWiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 310). Victor Books.OUTLINESSee above.QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "Do you hear God's warning?Scripture: John 5:19-29Daniel 7:13-14; Acts 2:36-39Bottom line: In a world that is good at ignoring warnings, God sent his son into the world to warn us personally. This is so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, one with God, life-giver and judge over all, and that by believing have life in his name.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONLast year, I ignored God's first warning. It was September and my blood tests showed that my chloestoral was 210. It should be less than 100. Still, I felt fine. I didn't remember at the time that my family has a history of high chlorestal and related heart and artery issues. I just never occurred to me that I might have any of those issues. I felt fine. I exercise regularly. I didn't eat healthy at the time but I was better than most. (As if that were a good standard)I ignored my first warning from God. Ignoring my doctor's plan for health, I didn't agree to start taking chlorestoral meds because I wanted to try and exercise and change my diet so that I could naturally bring my cholesterol down. Mercifully, I got a second warning. I got a second chance. On October 8th of last year, while working on a disaster relief project in western NC after a major hurricane, I had a TIA (mini-stroke) while on site. God mercifully put a medical missionary on our team who quickly diagnosed my symptoms and sent me to the ER where I received excellent treatment at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville. My second warning. This was a mercy. I deserved a TIA, stroke or worse because I ignored the doctor's advice. As I was being triaged, I remembered I had my cholesterol numbers from 3 weeks earlier and showed them to the medical team. This helped them confirm their diagnosis. God chose to be rich in love and mercy towards me that day. I woke up "heard his voice" and began taking his warning seriously. Since then, I am much more willing to heed the medical advice given to me on this life-threatening journey. I still ask questions and sometimes push back. But because God humbled me while giving me another chance, I'm in a better place medically. I finally heard and heeded God's warning.What about you? Has God been warning you?God warns us about things in this life and about things that affect the next.What has God been warning you about? What warnings are you ignoring?"I remember hearing a knock on our front door. When I opened the door, I saw two ladies standing on my step holding Bibles and some religious literature. My suspicion was soon confirmed: these two ladies were Jehovah's Witnesses going from door to door sharing their false gospel.As rapidly as I could, I told them we believed differently about Jesus, and the Bible clearly says Jesus is truly God. "Oh, we believe he's God," they said. "No, you don't. You believe he's a god, but you do not believe he's of the same essence as the Father. You do not believe he's one with the Father." At that point they admitted they viewed Jesus differently, and the conversation ended a few moments later. Those two ladies, as sweet as they were, standing on my porch with Bibles in hand, were rebelling against God. Anyone who does not submit to Jesus Christ—anyone who dishonors the Son-does not honor the Father." -Matt CarterCONTEXTJohn moves forward in chapters 5-10 highlighting the escalating conflict between Jesus and the Jewish leadership. John will use Jesus' encounters with others to escalate and teach/reveal who he is leading the Jewish leaders to grow more insistent on his execution for blasphemy. They are convinced that he is claiming to be another god equal to God the Father and they cannot rest until he is dealt with. For they think that he is leading the people astray.SERMON Bottom line: In a world that is good at ignoring warnings, God sent his son into the world to warn us personally. This is so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, one with God, life-giver and judge over all, and that by believing have life in his name.Kent Hughes says that Jesus makes 3 claims that we all should take seriously. I'll pair them up with how other commentators saw this.Jesus is one with the Father. (19-20)(Hughes)Jesus' unity with the Father. (19-23)(ChatGPT)Jesus does what only God can do. (19-22)(Carter)Jesus has the power to give and sustain life. (21, 24-26)(Hughes)Jesus gives spiritual life (eternal life) through belief. (24-25)(Chat GPT)Jesus receives honor only God deserves. (23-24)(Carter) Jesus has the authority to judge. (27-30)(Hughes)Jesus brings future resurrection and judgment. (25-29) (ChatGPT)Jesus has power only God can claim. (25-29)(Carter) Hughes adds here, "These claims are eternal and they call for action."Applications for BelieversTrust in Jesus' authority as if God (because he is). (19-23)He is fully aligned and in sync with His Father. (19-20)He is the source and sustainer of life. (Now and future) (21)He is the judge of all people. (Now and in the future) (22)He is God, so, honor (worship) Him accordingly. (23)Rest in eternal life now. (24) Rest as in fully rely on Him.Eternal life--abundant life forever.Now--it starts when you rest fully in Him.Live with resurrection hope. (25-29) Live in light of eternity!Listening for Jesus to speak. (25)Embrace life as a gift. (26)Live grateful for the mercy. (27)Live in light of his imminent return. (28-29)Applications for Not-yet believersBelieve/trust that Jesus as your pathway to life abundant and eternal starting today. (24-25)Judgment is certain. No exceptions. (27-29)There is still time to respond. (25)For believers, this gives assurance, hope and a call to live in light of eternity.For not-yet believers, this is a wake-up call to take Jesus' words seriously--life and judgment are in his hands.CONCLUSIONHughes or Carter write:"It is hardly surprising therefore that controversy features prominently in the life and ministry of Jesus as he reveals the truth about himself. The intriguing thing about the controversy that surrounded Jesus during his public ministry on earth is that it is not so much his teaching and ideas that were in dispute, but the claims that he made about himself. It was this fact that led C.S. Lewis to make his much-quoted remark,Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman, or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him or kill him as a demon; or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God. But let us not come to him with any patronising nonsense about him being a great human teacher. He has not left that option open to us. He did not intend to.Mere Christianity (New York, Macmillan: 1943), pp. 55-56I've always heard it summarized as Jesus was either...A lunatic, crazy for thinking he was God, A liar, out to deceive for his own glory, or The Lord, because all that he claimed is true.But, no matter what, you cannot call him just a great teacher or a great man or a great prophet. For he could not be any of those if he lied or was crazy. You can't have it both ways.Bottom line: In a world that is good at ignoring warnings, God sent his son into the world to warn us personally. This is so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, one with God, life-giver and judge over all, and that by believing have life in his name.What about you?Has God warned you?Do you hear his warning? Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESPossible titles and questions:Are you listening to God's warning? Is Jesus worth listening to?Who does Jesus think he is?Who has the final say over your future?Are you alive or just breathing?Did you hear God's warning?Throughout history this is how people have responded to Jesus: there is no room for neutrality." -Mark Johnston OUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "Do you want to get well?"Scripture: John 5:1-18Bottom line: To find healing and salvation, we must 1) be willing to change, 2) find hope to change, and 3) surrender to change.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION“There was an occasion when the army of Alexander the Great was engaged in a very serious battle, and in the course of the battle, one of the soldiers fled the scene. He was a coward. After the battle, the coward was apprehended and brought to Alexander's tent. As the man stood trembling before his general, Alexander looked at him and said, “Why did you run?” The soldier said, “I was afraid.” Alexander said: “So I see. What is your name?” The soldier mumbled his answer so that Alexander couldn't hear him, so the great warrior said: “Speak up. What is your name?” The young soldier looked at him and said, “My name is Alexander.” Alexander the Great replied, “Either change your behavior or change your name.”CONTEXTJohn moves forward in chapters 5-10 highlighting the escalating conflict between Jesus and the Jewish leadership. John will use Jesus' encounters with others to escalate and teach/reveal who he is leading the Jewish leaders to grow more insistent on his execution for blashemy. They are convinced that he is claiming to be another god equal to God the Father and they cannot rest until he is dealt with. For he is leading the people astray.These encounters will include several "I am" statements designed to reveal who Jesus really is. It's at this point that I'd like to share with you how someone described Jesus. After all, many of us struggle with following Jesus because we also are unclear about who healed us. Lesslie Newbigin, British pastor and missionary from the past wrote:"The one of whom we are reading is the one who was finally rejected with unique unanimity by the representatives of all the forces that control human behavior (cf. I Cor. 2:8), was subjected to that death which implied the curse of God as well as of men, was raised to new life, and became the author of new life for all who believed. It is this man whose identity is being defined in these passages." -Lesslie NewbiginHe says that we cannot understand what John is doing and writing without remembering that this is all about believing that Jesus is the Messiah, the king of kings, the Son of man and the son of God and that by believing have life in his name who died for our sins and was raised to prove his atoning sacrifice for us works in his Father's eyes. We are forgiven because of him!SERMON Bottom line: To find healing and salvation, we must 1) be willing to change, 2) find hope to change, and 3) surrender to change.According to Pastor Mark Johnston, Jesus' question, and the impact it makes, raises at least four major issues for this man and for all people.WANT TO CHANGE? The truth about our life--do we even want to change?HELPLESS TO CHANGE. The fact of our own helplessness--can we even change without outside help?SIN KEEPS US FROM CHANGE. The cause of all our trouble--do we realize what causes our sickness is sin? (Generally or specifically)HOPE FOR CHANGE IS FOUND IN JESUS. The hope that is found in Jesus--Healing and salvation are made possible by Jesus sovereignly initiating compassionately.CONCLUSIONBottom line: To find healing and salvation, we must 1) be willing to change, 2) find hope to change, and 3) surrender to change.Do I want to get well even if it means change?Do I acknowledge that I cannot change myself?Do I realize that the reason I cannot change on my own is sin?Am I ready and willing to surrender to Jesus so that I can change?What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"This reality should motivate us to labor with all our might to make Jesus Christ and his gospel known and loved throughout the world. Augustine wrote this beautiful reflection about Jesus Christ:You are ever active, yet always at rest. You gather all things to yourself, though you suffer no need. ... You welcome those who come to you, though you never lost them. You release us from our debts, but you lose nothing thereby. You are my God, my Life, my holy Delight, but is this enough to say of you? Can any man say enough when he speaks of you? Yet woe betide those who are silent about you! (Confessions [IX 1], 181)May we, by the grace of God, never be silent." -Matt Carter"I'll Do It Later (v. 35):Jesus asks the disciples a pointed question: "Don't you say, 'There are still four more months, and then comes the harvest'?" (v. 35). He's saying, "Do you guys think you need to wait before reaping the fruit of the gospel? Are you hoping it will come later? You're wrong; look at the Samaritans coming right now. What are you waiting for? The time is now!" Jesus is driving the urgency of the gospel home to the hearts of his disciples. We don't wait for a different time or a better time; the harvest is now. Go, do the work of sharing the gospel right now. Charles Spurgeon, preaching on this passage, challenged his congregation:Some of you good people, who do nothing except go to public meetings, the Bible readings, and prophetic conferences, and other forms of spiritual [indulgence], would be a good deal better Christians if you would look after the poor and needy around you. If you would just tuck up your sleeves for work, and go and tell the gospel to dying men, you would find your spiritual health mightily restored, for very much of the sickness of Christians comes through their having nothing to do. All feeding and no working gives men spiritual indigestion. Be idle, careless, with nothing to live for, nothing to care for, no sinner to pray for, no backslider to lead back to the cross, no trembler to encourage, no little child to tell of a Savior, no grey-headed man to enlighten in the things of God, no object, in fact, to live for; and who wonders if you begin to groan, and to murmur, and to look within, until you are ready to die of despair? (Cited in Hughes, John, 132) - Matt CarterOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "What does authentic faith look like?Scripture: John 4:43-54John 1:9-12; 8:31-32Bottom line: Authentic faith looks like an actual commitment, built on an informed belief, and a growing dependency of God.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONToday we're answer the question, "What does authentic faith look like?" When I think of the word authentic, I think of collections where value is based on the something rare being authenticated or declared the real thing.The most valuable American coin today is a 1794 silver dollar called the Flowing Hair Silver Dollar. It has lady liberty on one side and an American eagle on the other. Many believe that it was the first coin minted by the US government. There were only 1800 made and experts think only about 120 remain. It last sold for 12 million dollars. But it's only worth 12 million dollars if it's an authentic Flowing Hair Silver Dollar.The question today is what does authentic faith look like. We're asking this question to setup the more important question, "Is my faith authentic?"CONTEXTJesus has been talking with the woman at the well. He and the 12 got to see a whole town come to Christ. It has been an amazing day. The enemies of the Jews (the Samaritans) have trusted the Jewish Messiah! There is no earthly reason why they would do this. Only God.John will use this town of people in Sychar to expose the contrast with the way the Jews are responding (en masse) to Jesus. (Cf. John 1:11-12)John will also contrast the nobleman's growing faith with the hesitant faith of Nicodemus.What does authentic faith look like?Is my faith authentic?SERMON Bottom line: Authentic faith looks like an actual commitment, built on an informed belief, and a growing dependency on God.What does authentic faith look like? (Help from Matt Carter's commentary)I. Actual commitment--not just spiritual curiosity.Nobleman embraced Light of the world and Savior of the world.Overall response is rejection of Jews (cf. John 1:9-12); still some exceptions; not unlike us today.This contrast shows us what authentic faith looks like.Spiritual curiosity ≠ Authentic faithJesus condemns them for lack of faith and desire for "signs and wonders""You" is plural meaning the Jews and not just the nobleman. Maybe even in further contrast (like the Centurion)Samaritans have authentic faith in that town--they took Jesus as his word. No signs and wonders needed.II. Informed belief--not just emotional feelings.Requires understanding certain truths about Jesus.Content of our faith. Word > ExperienceAre you a follower? Why? For what he did or who he is?Nobleman looking for a miracle? Yes, but takes Jesus at his word instead of having to see it happen instantly. Similar to Samaritans.We aren't called to a blind faith or emotional faith, though it can be emotional. We have a reasonable faith. Who is Jesus? Title so far in John include:Son of GodSon of ManMessiah/ChristWord of GodKing of IsraelLamb of GodIII. Growing dependence--not just a single decision.2X it says nobleman "believed." (4:51-53)Same with Samaritans. (39-41)In neither case are we told WHEN they were saved. John shows it's a continual belief that truly saves or demonstrates authentic faith. It starts with a moment and decision--but it never ends. We persevere in the faith over time.Pointing to a past decision isn't enough if not walking in it. We'll know your status based on your fruit. Cf. Hebrews 3:12-14; Galatians 5:23-24John 1:!2 those who are believing (present tense) in his name.John 8:31 if you "continue" in my word.To "continue" or "hold to" his word is to "abide" or "remain" in Christ.Applications/questions:Are you spiritually curious? That's fine. Just don't think you're secure and good with the Lord just because you're spiritual or open. Christ calls us to follow him the rest of our life. Until you surrender to that, you're just curious. It's not a convenient faith that he calls us to--it's a costly faith. He calls us to ultimately come and die. Is your faith rooted on how you feel? I feel close to God today but not tomorrow. Emotions are a legitimate part of the human experience--even in our spiritual life. But we root our faith in truth--God's word is truth. Jesus said, "I am the way, and the truth..." We have an informed faith; a reasonable faith; not a blind faith. Is your faith growing? Are you abiding in Jesus daily? Are you walking with God daily? These are different ways of asking the question, am I growing in dependence on the Lord?CONCLUSIONBottom line: Authentic faith starts with an actual commitment, and an informed belief on the word, and a growing dependence. What about you? Is your faith authentic?Here's another way to look at it.How do you know that you're married?Well, you might say, I have a wedding ring and a marriage license. I could respond, well, I know people who have a marriage license and maybe even still wear their wedding ring. But they are no longer married.The only way to truly know you're married is because you live the married life with your spouse. You raise the kids together. You take care of the house together. You do life together.The same is true with authentic faith. What does authentic faith look like? It looks like an actual commitment, built on an informed faith, and a growing dependence.What about you? Is your faith authentic?If not, what can you do?Repent--turn from the way you're living life and turn back to the trust and follow Jesus' words, ways and works.Believe--Rest on the calling you've received; build on the word of God; pray towards growing in Christ.`Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"Jesus was saying, "Your experience with the Samaritans is one of reaping where you did not sow," and that surely was the case. They had not sowed, but they reaped. In our age some of us may sow, and some of us may reap. The thrust of these verses is that there is going to be a good deal of reaping, but the implication also is that sometimes we may sow and never see the results. I am reminded of the story of George Müller who founded many orphanages in the last century. Early in his life Müller made the acquaintance of three men, and he began to pray for their salvation. Müller lived a long time, but when he died, none of those men had yet trusted Christ. It is recorded in his diary that he prayed for these men daily during all those years. But that is not the end! The glorious fact is that all three of those men did meet Christ-two of them in their seventies and one in his eighties! Müller sowed, but someone else reaped. Whether we find ourselves sowing or reaping, our lives are to be permeated with a sense of urgency. Jesus' harvest mentality was part of the secret of his life. We also are meant to be harvesting!" -Kent Hughes, p. 139"This reality should motivate us to labor with all our might to make Jesus Christ and his gospel known and loved throughout the world. Augustine wrote this beautiful reflection about Jesus Christ:You are ever active, yet always at rest. You gather all things to yourself, though you suffer no need. ... You welcome those who come to you, though you never lost them. You release us from our debts, but you lose nothing thereby. You are my God, my Life, my holy Delight, but is this enough to say of you? Can any man say enough when he speaks of you? Yet woe betide those who are silent about you! (Confessions [IX 1], 181)May we, by the grace of God, never be silent." -Matt Carter"I'll Do It Later (v. 35):Jesus asks the disciples a pointed question: "Don't you say, 'There are still four more months, and then comes the harvest'?" (v. 35). He's saying, "Do you guys think you need to wait before reaping the fruit of the gospel? Are you hoping it will come later? You're wrong; look at the Samaritans coming right now. What are you waiting for? The time is now!" Jesus is driving the urgency of the gospel home to the hearts of his disciples. We don't wait for a different time or a better time; the harvest is now. Go, do the work of sharing the gospel right now. Charles Spurgeon, preaching on this passage, challenged his congregation:Some of you good people, who do nothing except go to public meetings, the Bible readings, and prophetic conferences, and other forms of spiritual [indulgence], would be a good deal better Christians if you would look after the poor and needy around you. If you would just tuck up your sleeves for work, and go and tell the gospel to dying men, you would find your spiritual health mightily restored, for very much of the sickness of Christians comes through their having nothing to do. All feeding and no working gives men spiritual indigestion. Be idle, careless, with nothing to live for, nothing to care for, no sinner to pray for, no backslider to lead back to the cross, no trembler to encourage, no little child to tell of a Savior, no grey-headed man to enlighten in the things of God, no object, in fact, to live for; and who wonders if you begin to groan, and to murmur, and to look within, until you are ready to die of despair? (Cited in Hughes, John, 132) - Matt CarterOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Tim Stewart continues Joshua.

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Should Jesus Matter More Than Me?”Scripture: John 3:22-36Bottom line: It's not about me. If I follow Jesus, He must become greater--I must become less.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONShould Jesus matter more than me?I mean we just read John 3:16 where we see that God loved the world--us--so much that he gave his one and only son (the most precious thing he could give) that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. That makes it seem like God is making much of me! That I matter to him!And we do! "But God demonstrates his love in this, that while we were still sinners Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)But it's because of that great love for us that he demonstrates his greatness even more. This is why he's worthy to live our lives for. This is why he matters most.In our world, our culture, it's all about #1. It's all about taking care of myself. What's best for me. What's in it for me. But this isn't at all how the Bible teaches us to live. In fact, it's 180 degrees the other way. It's not about me. It's all about Jesus--my creator and savior.2. The Olympic Torchbearer Who Knew His RoleIn the Olympic Games, the torch relay is a huge honor. Runners carry the flame for a short distance before passing it to the next person. No single runner tries to hold onto the torch forever—each one understands their job is to carry it for a time and then hand it off.John the Baptist saw his role the same way. He wasn't the light—he was just carrying the flame until Jesus, the true light, arrived. He gladly stepped aside because he knew it was never about him.Tie-in: Are we holding onto our own importance too tightly, or are we willing to pass the torch so Jesus can be seen more clearly?So, should Jesus matter more than me?Yes. Why? Good question. The apostle John answers this question 4 ways in John 3:22-36. Let's take a look.CONTEXTJesus & company move out from the city of Jerusalem to the Judean countryside to preach and baptize. Seeing the planned transition from J the B to J the C, this causes heartburn for John's disciples. Not unlike when a beloved pastor moves on from a church, the congregants are sometimes reluctant to follow the new pastor, even though it's often God's will.SERMON Bottom line: It's not about me. If I follow Jesus, He must become greater--I must become less.Main Idea: John the Baptist's response to his disciples shows us why Jesus must take first place in our lives—and why we must be willing to step back so He can be exalted.Jesus matters more because...The Church (Bride) belongs to Him. (22-29)He comes from above (heaven). (30-31)His words are God's words. (32-34)He holds my eternity. (35-36)Let's break this down a few verses at a time.1. Jesus Matters More Because the Church Belongs to Him (vv. 22–29)The Best Man Who Tried to Steal the Show Imagine a wedding where the best man keeps stepping in front of the groom, trying to take the spotlight. Instead of celebrating the couple, he gives a long speech about himself, tries to dance with the bride, and insists that everyone pay attention to him.That would be ridiculous, right? After all, that day is for the bride and groom. It's their day! And the best man should be pointing everyone else to them. That's actually his job!But that's exactly what happens when we try to make life about us instead of pointing to Jesus. John the Baptist understood this—his joy was in stepping aside so Jesus could take center stage.Tie-in: Are we content being the “best man” who points to Jesus, or are we still trying to be the main attraction?So, Jesus matters more because the Church (aka the Bride) belongs to Him.. • John calls himself the “friend of the bridegroom,” rejoicing that the bride (God's people) belongs to Jesus, not to him. • It's not about building our platform, reputation, or influence—it's about pointing people to Christ. • Application: Am I more focused on my own importance, or am I helping others love Jesus more?2. Jesus Matters More Because He Comes from Above (vv. 30–31) • John contrasts himself (earthly) with Jesus (from heaven). Jesus isn't just another teacher—He is God's Son. • This means He deserves absolute authority in our lives. • Application: Who has the final say in my decisions—Jesus or me?3. Jesus Matters More Because His Words Are God's Words (vv. 32–34) • Jesus speaks with firsthand knowledge of heaven, and God has given Him the Spirit without measure. • To reject Jesus' words is to reject God Himself. • Application: Do I listen to Jesus above all other voices—culture, opinion, even my own desires?4. Jesus Matters More Because He Holds My Eternity (vv. 35–36) • The Father has placed everything in Jesus' hands—life, judgment, salvation. • Belief in Jesus leads to eternal life, but rejecting Him brings God's wrath. • Application: Am I fully trusting in Jesus, or am I still holding on to control?CONCLUSIONJohn the Baptist knew his role—he wasn't the main event, just the one pointing to Jesus. His joy was complete when Jesus was exalted. So, should Jesus matter more than me? According to John, there's no question—He must.Application questions for us today: • Am I more focused on my own importance, or am I helping others love Jesus more? • Who has the final say in my decisions—Jesus or me? • Do I listen to Jesus above all other voices—culture, opinion, even my own desires? • Am I fully trusting in Jesus, or am I still holding on to control?Bottom line: It's not about me. If I follow Jesus, He must become greater--I must become less.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESChatGPT describes a Jewish wedding in Jesus' day in this way:"A traditional Jewish wedding in Jesus' day followed a structured process with deep cultural and theological significance. Understanding this context helps illuminate John the Baptist's statement in John 3:29:“The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore, this joy of mine is now complete.” (ESV)Stages of a Jewish Wedding in Jesus' Day1. Betrothal (Kiddushin) – The Legal Commitment • The marriage process began with betrothal, a legally binding agreement arranged by the families. • The groom would present a bride price (mohar) to the bride's father as a symbol of his commitment. • A written contract (ketubah) outlined the husband's responsibilities to his wife. • The couple was considered legally married at this point, though they did not yet live together or consummate the marriage. • The groom would then leave to prepare a home for his bride, often an addition to his father's house.2. Waiting Period – The Groom's Preparation • The groom would spend months, sometimes a year, preparing a home for his bride. • The bride remained at her family's house, preparing herself and staying pure for the wedding. • The exact time of the groom's return was often unknown, adding a sense of expectation.3. The Wedding Procession – The Groom Comes for His Bride • When the groom's father declared that everything was ready, the groom would gather his friends and go to the bride's house, often at night. • The bride and her attendants would hear the groom's approach, and she had to be ready to go with him immediately. • This imagery is reflected in Jesus' parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1–13).4. The Wedding Ceremony and Feast • The bride and groom were escorted to the wedding feast, which could last up to seven days. • The marriage was consummated, symbolizing their full union. • The feast was a time of great joy, with music, dancing, and celebration.How This Relates to John 3:29John the Baptist identifies himself as the friend of the bridegroom (what we might call the “best man” today). In Jewish custom, this role was filled by someone who helped prepare the wedding and ensured everything was in order. His greatest joy was seeing the groom receive his bride. • Jesus is the Bridegroom – He has come to claim His people (the bride). • John is the Friend of the Bridegroom – His role was to prepare the way for Jesus, not to take center stage. • The Bride Represents God's People – In a broader biblical theme, the Church is the bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:25–32, Revelation 19:7–9).John's joy is complete because the groom (Jesus) has arrived and is beginning to gather His bride. His ministry was never about himself but about preparing the way for Jesus.A traditional Jewish wedding in Jesus' day followed a structured process with deep cultural and theological significance. Understanding this context helps illuminate John the Baptist's statement in John 3:29:“The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore, this joy of mine is now complete.” (ESV)This is helpful in thinking through John 3:29 as well as the parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13.OUTLINESWillmington's OUTLINE Bible (JOHN 3):Jesus meets with Nicodemus and tells him in order to be saved, all people must be born again. John the Baptist tells his disciples that Jesus is the Messiah.JOHN EXALTS THE PERSON OF SALVATION (3:22-36)A. The argument (3:22-26): A debate occurs among John's disciples concerning which baptism is valid-those performed by John or Jesus.B. The affirmation (3:27-36): John once again gives testimony concerning the greatness of Jesus.1. Jesus is the bridegroom, while John is but a friend of the bridegroom (3:27-29).2. Jesus must become greater and greater, while John must become less and less (3:30-36).QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "How can I be born again?"Scripture: John 3:16-21John 1:11-13Numbers 21:4-9Bottom line: Every person can be born again (from above), enter the kingdom of God, and receive eternal life by looking to Jesus on the pole (cross) and believing that God loves them that much.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONIt's really important to read scripture in multiple translations so let me give you a different translation to hear this verse in today:Ahoy, mateys! Let me spin ye a tale from the good book, as only Cap'n Jack Sparrow could tell it. Ahem..."Fer God so loved the scallywags of the world, that he gave his one and only son, that whoever swigs a bottle o' rum with him shall not be keelhauled, but have a bounce life that never runs aground, savvy?"CONTEXT"Whereas the emphasis in 3:1-8 was on the necessity of spiritual rebirth, the focus in 3:12-18 is on believing; thus, the themes of divine sovereignty and human responsibility are balanced. (Ridderbos 1997)" via Köstenberger, emphasis mineNote: In my opinion, this quote would be more accurate if he said either "spiritual birth" or "rebirth" but "spiritual rebirth" is not accurate."Because John 3:16 is sandwiched between vv. 14-15 and v. 17, the fact that God gave his one and only Son is tied both to the Son's incarnation(v. 17) and to his death (vv. 14-15). That is the immediate result of the love of God for the world: the mission of the Son. His ultimate purpose is the salvation of those in the world who believe in him...Whoever believes in him experiences new birth (3:3, 5), has eternal life (3:15, 16), is saved (3:17); the alternative is to perish (cf. also 10:28), to lose one's life (12:25), to be doomed to destruction (17:12, cognate with 'to perish'). There is no third option." -CarsonSERMON Every person can be born again, enter into the kingdom of God, and receive eternal life by looking to the cross of Christ and believing that God loves them that much.Why? For God so loved the world that he...GAVE "Gave his one and only son." God gave (sent in v. 17) his son in the flesh (at his birth) to show and tell us the way to true life. Love sent his son down to shine brightly as "The light of the world" so that our evil deeds could be revealed and turned away from.To SAVE "...to save the world through (Jesus)." God gave (sent in v. 17) his son up to be crucified for love. "But God demonstrates his love in this, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8To save us from eternal condemnation unto new life in his kingdom.How? God births us from above, bringing us to eternal life in his kingdom when weBELIEVE by looking to the cross of Jesus, that God loved us that much, so that we can LIVE forever with him. We receive abundant, eternal life by trusting his words on being born again. CONCLUSIONA Native American tribal chief was well-known throughout his region for being upright and courageous. To establish justice, he set up a punishment system for crimes.Even after the chief had begun to enforce his stringent policies, thievery was a serious problem. Enraged by the blatant law breaking, he increased the punishment for theft to a severe beating. Not long after he issued this decree, a thief was caught. To the chief's horror, it was his own mother! He was in a state of turmoil: Would he allow his own mother to be beaten and show himself to be unloving, or would he cancel her punishment and show himself to be unjust?His tribe began to wager, some thinking he would be cruel, others that he would be lenient. Finally the time arrived for the punishment to be given. To the shock of everyone, the chief had his mother tied to the post. Surely the woman would die! But just before the first crack of the whip by the ready warrior, the chief called for a halt. He stepped up, wrapped his arms around his mother's small frame, and took the beating himself.This story shows how God is both just and loving.Bottom line: Every person can be born again (from above), enter the kingdom of God, and receive eternal life by looking to the pole (cross) and believing that God loves them that much.The message of the Bible is a simple message about God's love and mercy, about man's sin and need, and about the rescue that's found in Jesus Christ. In simple words Sally Lloyd-Jones captures the love of God demonstrated in the death of his Son:"So you're a king, are you?" the Roman soldiers jeered. "Then you'll need a crown and a robe."They gave Jesus a crown made out of thorns. And put a purple robe on Him. And pretended to bow down to Him."Your Majesty!" they said.Then they whipped Him. And spat on Him. They didn't understand that this was the Prince of Life, the King of heaven and earth, who had come to rescue them.The soldiers made him a sign-"Our King" and nailed itto a wooden cross.They walked up a hill outside the city. Jesus carried the cross on His back. Jesus had never done anything wrong. But they were going to kill Him the way criminals were killed.They nailed Jesus to the cross."Father, forgive them," Jesus gasped. "They don'tunderstand what they're doing.""You say you've come to rescue us!" people shouted. "Butyou can't even rescue yourself!"But they were wrong. Jesus could have rescued Himself. A legion of angels would have flown to His side-if He'd called."If you were really the Son of God, you could just climbdown off that cross!" they saidAnd of course they were right. Jesus could have just climbed down. Actually, He could have just said a word and made it all stop. Like when He healed that little girl. And stilled the storm. And fed five thousand people.But Jesus stayed.You see, they didn't understand. It wasn't the nails that kept Jesus there. It was love. (The Jesus Storybook Bible by Saliy Lloyd-Jones, 302-6)What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESIn a gallery where artistic masterpieces are on display, it is not the masterpieces but the visitors that are on trial. The works which they view are not there to abide their question, but they reveal their own taste (or lack of it) by their reactions to what they see.The pop-star who was reported some years ago to have dismissed the Mona Lisa as 'a load of rubbish' (except that he used a less polite word than 'rubbish') did not tell us anything about the Mona Lisa; he told us much about himself. What is true in the aesthetic realm is equally true in the spiritual realm. The man who depreciates Christ, or thinks him unworthy of his allegiance, passes judgment on himself, not on Christ.FF Bruce, p. 91The motions to teach/remember John 3:16 "Have you heard about the man who sent a letter to twenty-five men in his town? It said: "All has been exposed. Flee at once." In response, all twenty-five men left town. What would you do if you got a letter like that? Even as Christians, we still feel that tug at our heart that causes us to look for a place to hide in the darkness rather than seeking the light of Christ." RC Sproul OUTLINESWillmington's OUTLINE Bible (JOHN 3):Jesus meets with Nicodemus and tells him in order to be saved, all people must be born again. John the Baptist tells his disciples that Jesus is the Messiah.1. JESUS EXPLAINS THE PLAN OF SALVATION (3:1-21): A man named Nicodemus visits Jesus by night.LAST WEEKA. The credentials of Nicodemus (3:1): He is both a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin and a Pharisee.B. The confession of Nicodemus (3:2): He acknowledges that Jesus is from God because of his miracles.C. The command to Nicodemus (3:3): Jesus says he needs the new birth.D. The confusion of Nicodemus (3:4): He confuses spiritual birth with physical birth.E. The chastening of Nicodemus (3:9-13): Jesus chides him for not knowing these things even though he is a respected Jewish teacher.F. The clarification for Nicodemus (3:5-8, 14-15): Jesus employs three illustrations to explain the new birth to Nicodemus. (Cf. Ezekiel 36:25-28)THIS WEEKG. The conclusion for Nicodemus (3:16-21): Jesus now summarizes both the subjects of salvation and condemnation!1. The persons (3:16)a. The Father gave his Son (3:16a).b. The Son will give his life (3:16b).QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "Am I really born again?"Scripture: John 3:1-15John 2:23-25;Daniel 7:13-14; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Matthew 5:20, 48;Numbers 21:4-9; Isaiah 52:13Bottom line: No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born from the above.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONBorn again. What does that even mean?Sometimes you hear people say they are a "Born-again Christian" as if there is another kind; as if you could be a true Christian any other way. I get why people do that. Am I really born again? That's not a question I would've asked as a young man going to college: I thought I already was. After all, I'd done everything the church had asked me to do growing up: confirmation class, youth choir, Sunday school, youth group, acolyte, even the hand bell choir. I did everything my parents put me in, regarding the church. But I don't ever remember hearing the gospel and responding by grace through faith to the gospel. Maybe that was because I thought I was a Christian by doing all those good things. Well, I wasn't. Not yet.Let me just talk to the students right now for a minute. Many of you have grown up going to church and have done everything asked of you by the church and your parents. You've been active in youth group. You've gone to Sunday school or kids group, and attended church services. Maybe you've even been on a mission trip or gone to summer camp. Maybe you've even prayed a prayer and been baptized. Those are good signs, of course. But the evidence that you are truly a follower of Christ is seen in the fruit of your life and made effective in your life because you were born from above. Not because you grew up going to church and doing all the church stuff. The church stuff is designed to lay a foundation on which to build your own faith in Christ on. The church stuff is to strengthen those who have been born again to not only be right with God in position, but to become right with God in practice. To walk in step with God daily. And to want to do that.Like I said, I grew up in the church doing all the church stuff. And I thought I was a Christian. But I figured out I wasn't a good Christian when I met my future wife. We met in ninth grade and instantly became friends. We started dating our senior year in high school. I saw how she carried herself for those four years in high school--with consistent love and integrity. I met her family and got to see how she was raised; how she was loved by her family; how she was taught by her family in word and deed. I got a glimpse of her church life by going with her to her church a couple of times as well. I probably heard the gospel there for the first time at a lock-in. She was a huge part of me coming to the Christ. Because I don't think I trusted Christ going through confirmation class, I suspect that Anita and I dated before I was a believer. I always council against that whenever you know that to be true. But I was playing the part of a Christian. I knew what to say and do in general and enough to come across as a young immature Christian. And by God's grace, she bought it. Ha ha. Little did I know that I had a lot more to learn about what it means to truly know God, and have a relationship with him because of a supernatural birth from above. I experienced what it means to be born again when I stood at the end of the concert and received Jesus is my Lord and Savior because I just knew I was supposed to.Jesus said to Nicodemus, you must be born again. He said no one can see the kingdom of God, unless they are born again or born from above. My hope is today that you will understand and comprehend what that means today so that should you choose to surrender to Jesus Christ, that you will be born from above today if you haven't already.CONTEXTJohn is transitioning from Jesus's first week of public ministry to conversations between Jesus and individuals. This is framed around the idea that there is more than one kind of belief in Jesus.SERMON Willmington's OUTLINE Bible (JOHN 3):Jesus meets with Nicodemus and tells him in order to be saved, all people must be born again. John the Baptist tells his disciples that Jesus is the Messiah.1. JESUS EXPLAINS THE PLAN OF SALVATION (3:1-21): A man named Nicodemus visits Jesus by night.A. The credentials of Nicodemus (3:1): He is both a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin and a Pharisee.B. The confession of Nicodemus (3:2): He acknowledges that Jesus is from God because of his miracles.C. The command to Nicodemus (3:3): Jesus says he needs the new birth.D. The confusion of Nicodemus (3:4): He confuses spiritual birth with physical birth.E. The chastening of Nicodemus (3:9-13): Jesus chides him for not knowing these things even though he is a respected Jewish teacher.F. The clarification for Nicodemus (3:5-8, 14-15): Jesus employs three illustrations to explain the new birth to Nicodemus. (Cf. Ezekiel 36:25-28)1. A physical illustration (3:5-7): Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.2. A natural illustration (3:8): Just as you don't know where the wind comes from or where it is going, so it is impossible to explain being born of the Spirit. Illustration: Imagine how crazy would be for wind to blow through a cemetery and bones to become living people again is no less dramatic than God transforming us from above.3. A scriptural illustration (3:14-15): As Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up.NEXT WEEK:G. The conclusion for Nicodemus (3:16-21): Jesus now summarizes both the subjects of salvation and condemnation!1. The persons (3:16)a. The Father gave his Son (3:16a).b. The Son will give his life (3:16b).CONCLUSIONBottom line: No one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born from above.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESFrom Lesslie Newbigin, p. 36:John 2:23-25"Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover feast, many believed in his name when they saw the signs which he did; but Jesus did not trust himself to them, because he knew all men and needed no one to bear witness of man; for he himself knew what was in man.The fact that Jesus performed many miracles of healing is assumed in all versions of the tradition. The synoptics devote much space to those which were performed in Galilee; John— without giving details-implies that Jerusalem was also the scene of such activity and states that as a result "many believed in his name." In the light of what is said in 1:12, where the same phrase is used, this might seem to be an extremely promising development in the mission of Jesus—an early and impressive example of successful evangelism. But it is not so. This belief is based upon "things that are seen"; it is not that faith which is a work of the Spirit who is not seen, and who comes—like the wind-as he will, and comes not from the solid ground below but from above. Jesus-who knows the heart and does not look on the outward appearance (I Sam. 16:7) —does not "believe in" them, even though they "believe in" him."OUTLINESOutline from Willmington's Outline Bible N/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.aiChatGPT 3.5

In this episode of Aftershocks TV, Matt & Chris dive into the highly anticipated metal docuseries "Into The Void" coming to Hulu. Produced by Vice Studios, the 8-part series promises to explore the rich history of heavy metal. The guys debate whether it will offer anything new for die-hard fans who already know the stories behind legends like Black Sabbath, Metallica, and Slayer. With such iconic bands featured, will the series provide fresh insights, or just retread well-known tales? Tune in for their thoughts on what this docuseries could really bring to the table for metalheads. #metal #heavymetal #metallica #blacksabbath #slayer #metalhistory #intothevoid #docuseries #hulu #vicestudios #rockmusic #metalhead NOTE: Everything said here, and on every episode of all of our shows are 100% the opinions of the hosts. Nothing is stated as fact. Do your own research to see if their opinions are true or not. Please SUBSCRIBE, click the notification bell, leave a comment or a like, and share this episode!

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: Why every Christian should live zealously for the LordScripture: John 2:12-251 Cor 3:16-17; 6:18-20; 1 Peter 2:4-8; Romans 12:9-11Bottom line: Every Christian should live zealously for the Lord and his kingdom mission.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"Another day in paradise," January 13, 2025, Bill Murphy, Jr."Honest to God, I just could not stop thinking of wonderful things that have happened to me and blessings that I've had, so it was lovely. It was lovely. And I got to a point of grace with about two minutes to spare when I found out it wasn't actually happening.— Jim CarreySeek immediate shelterIt was a beautiful morning. But aren't they all in Hawaii? A little below 80 degrees at the weather station in Oahu, with nearly no cloud cover: the kind of day that people on the mainland sometimes wish they had (but almost never get) at the beginning of January. • Honeymooners were waking up in each others' arms in their hotel rooms. A woman named Lydia Warren and her husband were vacationing on the beach. • A college student named Makena was showing her visiting boyfriend the Pearl Harbor memorial. (It's open at 7 a.m.; who knew?) Her father, a TV news producer named David Patterson, was on the freeway, about to dial into a conference call. • Oh, and here's a quirky one: Actor and comedian Jim Carrey was up early, working on writing a memoir.Then: panic. At 8:08 a.m., Hawaii's civil defense and emergency agency sent an alarming text to every single person in the state with a cell phone. It read, in all caps: "BALLISTIC MISSILE THREAT INBOUND TO HAWAII. SEEK IMMEDIATE SHELTER. THIS IS NOT A DRILL."Local T.V. put a chyron message on the screen as well, against the backdrop of things like a college basketball game between Ole Miss and Florida, or else a Premier League soccer game from London between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton:The U.S. Pacific Command has detected a missile threat to Hawaii. A missile may impact on land or sea within minutes. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. If you are indoors, stay indoors. If you are outdoors, seek immediate shelter in a building. Remain indoors well away from windows. If you are driving, pull safely to the side of the road and seek shelter in a building or lay on the floor. We will announce when the threat has ended. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. Take immediate action measures.Can you even imagine? Of course, you probably remember this -- along with the fact that in the end, there was no inbound missile. By the way, the date was January 13, 2018, so seven years ago today.In fact, officials at the civil defense agency realized this was a mistake pretty quickly, but it took them 38 minutes to confirm that and then figure out how to send a second message telling people that the first alert was in error.There's a lot about this story - but the biggest part that has stayed with me is how people spent those 38 minutes when they thought they and everyone around them was going to die.Lydia Warren and her husband raced back to their hotel -- not so much because they thought it would be safer, but because they thought that their bodies might be more easily identified someday if they were found near where they were staying.David Patterson called his daughter and learned where she was. He told her to use her phone to record video of Pearl Harbor visitors processing the possibility of an imminent attack. She later said this calmed her down, as she figured her father wouldn't tell her to spend what could be her last minutes videoing if he wasn't pretty sure the alert was a mistake.My favorite reaction is probably Jim Carrey's. He was engrossed in work and missed the initial alert, but his assistant called to tell him they had 10 minutes to live. He tried calling his daughter and some other family, wondering if there was any way to get off the island, and finally realizing everything was out of his control.He explained all of this on an episode of The Tonight Show two years later (video here):Jim Carrey: And we had to say goodbye. And I sat on the lanai and looked out at the ocean, and at that point, I started going, "Okay. Well, what can I do with this last moment of time?" And I just decided to go through a list of gratitudes, and honest to God, I just could not stop thinking of wonderful things that have happened to me and blessings that I've had, so it was lovely. It was lovely. And I got to a point of grace with about two minutes to spare when I found out it wasn't actually happening. And all I was planning to do was close my eyes an be thankful, 'cause it's been a good ride.'Jimmy Fallon: What did you do when you found out that it was a fake missile test?Carrey: Then I got pissed off, and heads rolled!The front page headline in the Star-Advertiser newspaper the next day read, in giant type: OOPS! (And in smaller type: "'Wrong button' sends out false missile alert.")Later, officials said that wasn't right; it was instead an employee who was absolute, 100 percent convinced that a missile was en route, and who sent the alert -- but was simply wrong.I guess I've mentioned this theme a few times recently -- but isn't it funny that even being told you are going to die within a few minutes can turn out to be a gift? At least that's what I take away from Carrey's account. Sometimes, I suppose you value things most when you're suddenly about to lose them.As for everyone affected that day, I feel for them. It must have been hard.Then again, after it was all over, they were still in Hawaii.Jesus is AngryJesus is angry. How can Jesus be angry? If God is love, how can Jesus-who is God-get angry? Genuine love is compatible with anger.In fact, genuine love is sometimes demonstrated by anger. At times anger proves love is authentic. Let me give you an example: a friend of mine is passionate about ending modern-day slavery and human trafficking.He writes and speaks about it. He's visited Washington to meet with politicians. He has traveled to foreign countries to learn more about stopping it. He's worked hard to bring it to people's attention. I don't doubt his commitment to ending trafficking. I don't doubt his love for those in slavery. But I would doubt a claim that he never got angry about it. I know his love for the abused is real because he gets angry when he sees the abuse.Jesus gets angry about how the Jews have turned his house of prayer and mission into a house of corrupt commerce. The Court of GentilesThe court of the Gentiles was the one place on the Temple Mount where anyone could engage with the God of Israel formally. But it was clogged with commercial enterprise instead of prayer, worship and evangelism.Matt Carter writes, "Jesus levels a charge, but the charge is not unethical practices. They have twisted the purpose of the temple. Jesus is denouncing impure worship."I would add they've forgotten the purpose of the outer temple court: mission to the nations.We do that too when we make our Sunday worship experience all about our wants and needs. When we see the Lord as he truly is, we are transformed to live on mission with him 24/7.CONTEXTLast week, Ken showed us how Jesus first displayed his power at a wedding in Cana, not far from Nazareth and Capernaum. He discreetly turns water to wine demonstrating his power as Messiah to his disciples and mother. This was part of his first week of public ministry. John called it the first of his "signs," or, miracles that point to who he is and why he's come. From Capernaum, Jesus leads his family and disciples to the temple in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover together. It's about to get dramatic.We pick it up with Jesus and his disciples in the temple in Jerusalem. This is the only temple of the Jews. It was the symbol of the nation and religion of Israel. It was the icon of their identity and the place where they 1) Met with God, and 2) atoned for their sins. SERMON Every Christian should live zealously for the Lord and his kingdom mission.Why? The answer is the message I'm about to give:It's because of his power, his passion and his promise.I. His power. (2:1-11) We saw last week how he powerfully transformed water to wine. He demonstrated this discreetly to reveal his power to his family and disciples; to help them believe he could powerfully transform our lives too.II. His passion. (2:12-17) We see his passion and zeal for his father's house. In fact, his zeal consumes him. We see this in the cross.Story by Kent Hughes, commentary on John, p. 47"One evening the great conductor Arturo Toscanini conducted Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. It was a brilliant performance, at the end of which the audience went absolutely wild! They clapped, whistled, and stamped their feet, absolutely caught up in the greatness of that performance. As Toscanini stood there, he bowed and bowed and bowed, then acknowledged his orchestra.When the ovation finally began to subside, Toscanini turned and looked intently at his musicians. He was almost out of control as he whispered,"Gentlemen! Gentlemen!" The orchestra leaned forward to listen. In a fiercely enunciated whisper Toscanini said, "Gentlemen, I am nothing." That was an extraordinary admission since Toscanini was blessed with an enormous ego.He added, "Gentlemen, you are nothing." They had heard that same message before the rehearsal. "But Beethoven," said Toscanini in a tone of adoration,"is everything, everything, everything!" This is the attitude we need toward ourselves and toward the Lord Jesus Christ. I am nothing, you are nothing, but he is everything! That was John's attitude, and it is the attitude of every authentic messenger of Christ."III. He promise. (2:18-22) We will see his promise fulfilled in our resurrection one day based on his resurrection 2,000 years ago.CONCLUSIONApplication: When we're tempted to doubt or find ourselves lacking zeal, REMEMBER THE RESURRECTION!From Tim Keller, The Songs of Jesus, p. 153"MISUNDERSTOOD. David is being scorned for his zealous devotion to God (verse 9). When he prays and repents, he is laughed at (verses 10-11). His world is not so different from ours. Even when Christianity was taken for granted by Western society, the most devoted believers were silently laughed at.Today they are also despised. The world does not understand the Gospel of grace, in which holy living is the result of humble, grateful joy, not a way to earn heaven. The world therefore sees all righteous living as self-righteousness and bigotry. We should not be surprised at this (2 Timothy 3:12), but we should also undermine this false narrative by living lives of humility, forgiveness, and sacrificial service to others."Bottom line: Every Christian should live zealously for the Lord and his kingdom mission.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESMany today want to use this to say we shouldn't sell things in church lobbies because we tend to think of the church building as a house of prayer and mission too. And it is to the degree that it is filled with true believers. But I'd take it further. As a part of the better, spiritual temple of God, I must make sure I don't approach my time of worship as a transactional exchange with God where I show up, maybe serve a little bit, give a little bit, pray a little bit, and then expect God to bless me because I earned it.OUTLINESOutline from Willmington's Outline Bible N/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.aiChatGPT 3.5

Signs & GloryTitle: What does it mean to follow Jesus?Scripture: John 1:35-51Genesis 28:11-12; 2 Kings 6:14-17; Hebrews 1:14Lean a tall ladder against the back wall on the stage. Or set it up as an A-frame closer to the front.Bottom line: Following Jesus is humbling ourselves and apprenticing to lead people to Jesus as part of a supernatural way of life.1. INTRODUCTION2. CONTEXT3. SERMON OUTLINE4. CONCLUSION5. NOTES6. OUTLINES7. QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER 8. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS9. MAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONWelcome 2025! Apparently, I'll be learning more new things in 2025. We've been homeowners for at least 25 years and I learned something new about owning a home this weekend. We had our house re-roofed recently and I learned that when that happens, a lot of debris rains down onto the things you have stored in the attic! So I learned something new!We talk a lot about following Jesus here at Grace. And it's tempting to think that once you hear a sermon or two on that you're good to move on. But the Bible revisits it quite a lot. And since we're preaching through the Bible, we will repeat that a lot too. But here's the thing: Every topic you could choose to hear a sermon on relies heavily on understanding what it means to follow Jesus. Well John is going to go there with us today. Both John's, in fact. So here we go!CONTEXTThis series is called Signs & Glory. Zooming out, this book of the Bible by John the Apostle or Disciple is written that we might believe that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God and that by believing have life in his name. That's the point of this gospel account of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.Zooming in further, we see this gospel account divided into 2 major sections. The first 12 chapters will show us the 7 signs of belief along with many others truths that illustrate and justify the teachings of Jesus. Chapters 13-20 will show us the glory of God on full display. We'll see the light, life and love of God through his divine AND human son, Jesus of Nazareth during the last week of his life.In John 1:19-2:12, the apostle John begins his gospel narrative like the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke) do: Beginning with John the Baptist. This chunk of scripture covers Jesus' first week of public ministry. It skips his actual baptism, though he implies it. It also skips his 40 days being tempted by Satan in the wilderness. John assumes his readers already know about this and, even if they don't, it's well covered in the synoptic gospels already. He's moving on so he can focus on the themes he feels led to focus on.6 of the 7 days are mentioned so we'll point those out along the way. Verse 19 is day 1 of his first week.The first 12 chapters of John are about the Signs of the Messiah. After that, John's focus is on the Glory of the Messiah. SERMON What does following Jesus mean/look like?- Learning/apprenticing (Disciple) - Information vs - Transformation- Going (Evangelist-->Apostle) - Most of disciples were brought to Jesus by a disciple of Jesus - Start with those closest to you- Leading Others #LOTDTS - Jesus modeled this from the beginning - This isn't about gifting--this is about obedience- Living/experiencing Supernatural life - Story 1 - Story 2- Lord's Supper tie-inCONCLUSION"ON A DARK NIGHT about a hundred years ago a Scottish missionary couple found themselves surrounded by cannibals intent on taking their lives. On that terror-filled night the couple fell to their knees and prayed that God would protect them. It was a horrible time. Intermittent with their prayers, the missionaries heard the cries of the savages and imagined them coming through the door to take their lives. As the sun began to rise, to their astonishment they found that the natives were retreating into the forest. The missionaries were absolutely amazed and filled with joy. Their hearts soared to God. It was a day of rejoicing!The couple bravely continued their work. A year later the chieftain of that tribe was saved. As the missionary spoke with him, he remembered the horror of that night and asked the chieftain why he and his men had not killed them.The chieftain replied in surprise, "Who were all those men who were with you?" The missionary answered, "There were no men with us. It was just my wife and myself." The chieftain began to argue with him, saying, "There were hundreds of tall men in shining garments with drawn swords circling about your house, so we could not attack you."That story, recorded in Billy Graham's book Angels, is one of the greatest stories in missionary history. The missionary was the almost legendary John G. Paton of the New Hebrides. What a glorious story for the church — a story not often repeated or experienced, yet one that does have contemporary parallels.""Another vivid story was shared with me by a respectable Southern California pastor's wife. One evening she was driving down the Santa Ana Freeway, which is always busy. As she drove down that freeway, somehow the car door opened, and her four-year-old child tumbled out onto the freeway amidst the high-speed traffic. With her heart pounding and with horrible expectations, she pulled her car to a screeching stop and ran frantically back along the freeway. But she did not expect to see what she saw. Her child was sitting up in the fast lane of the freeway amidst the glare of headlights, his only injuries a few abrasions. The first words that came out of his mouth were, "Mommy, Mommy, I saw Jesus put up his hands and stop the cars!" Was that a child's imagination? Possibly. None of the drivers saw anyone. They just managed to stop their cars and miss him. The boy had been raised in a pious home, so perhaps he was just parroting what he had heard others say. On the other hand, it may indeed have been angelic intervention, considering the incredible danger in that unusual situation."Both from Kent Hughes commentary, pp. 51-52Bottom line: Following Jesus is humbling ourselves and apprenticing to lead people to Jesus as part of a supernatural way of life.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: 1. What is God saying to me right now?2. What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESOUTLINESOutline from Willmington's Outline Bible OUTLINE JOHN 1John begins his Gospel by talking about the deity of Christ, then describes the ministry of John the Baptist. Jesus is baptized and calls his first disciples.I. FACTS CONCERNING THE PREINCARNATE CHRIST (1:1-5) A. His relationship to the Father (1:1-2) 1. Christ's eternality is declared (1:1a, 2): He already existed in the beginning. 2. Christ's deity is declared (1:b): He is God. B. His relationship to the world (1:3-5) 1. He is the sole creator (1:3): Nothing exists that he didn't make. 2. He is light and life (1:4-5): His life gives light to everyone, and the darkness cannot extinguish it.II. FACTS CONCERNING THE INCARNATE CHRIST (1:6-51) A. The miracle (1:14): God became human and lived on earth among us. B. The mission (1:10-13): He came to save sinners. 1. Some rejected him (1:10-11): The world and even the people in his own country did not understand him. 2. Some received him (1:12-13): Those who believed him became children of God. C. The men (1:6-9, 15-51) 1. Christ's faithful forerunner (1:6-9, 15-34) a. John the Baptist and the crowds (1:6-9, 15-18): John makes three key statements to the people. (1) He is to serve as a witness to Christ (1:6-9). (2) Christ is greater than John or Moses (1:15-17). b. John the Baptist and the critics (1:19-28): John speaks to the Pharisees who are sent to cross-examine him. (1) John says that he is not the Messiah (1:19-20). (2) John says that he is not Elijah (1:21). (3) John says that he has been sent to prepare the way for the Lord (1:22-28). c. John the Baptist and the Christ (1:29-34) (1) He introduces the Savior (1:29-31). (2) He baptizes the Savior (1:32-34). 2. Christ's first five followers (1:35-51) a. Andrew and John the apostle (1:35-39) b. Peter (1:40-42) c. Philip (1:43) d. Nathanael (1:44-51)QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER1. What do I want them to know? 2. Why do I want them to know it?3. What do I want them to do?4. Why do I want them to do it?5. How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/1. Read the passage together.2. Retell the story in your own words.3. Discovery the story 1. What does this story tell me about God? 2. What does this story tell me about people? 3. If this is really true, what should I do?4. What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)5. What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)6. Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:1. Who is God?2. What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?3. Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)4. What do I do? (In light of who I am)5. How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)- What is God saying to you right now? - What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED---“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.aiChatGPT 3.5

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: Who is Jesus according to John?Scripture: John 1:19-34Matthew 3:1-12Malachi 4:4-5; Deut 18:18Bottom line: John the Baptist comes as the voice of one pointing others to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. We receive this forgiveness when we repent and believe.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONEven if you're not an NFL fan nor a Swifty, you've probably heard about the budding romance between Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce (tight end of the Kansas City Chiefs). Swifties who never cared about football before this have become KC fans. And some NFL fans have been learning how to "Shake it off" as they learn Taylor Swifts latest songs. There's nothing wrong with being a fan of TK or TS. If you are, that makes you a "Groupie" of the one you are a fan of.However, there can become a point at which being a groupie is detrimental to your heart. It can lead you to sin.As a groupie of TK or TS, if you are consumed with the idea of getting a selfie with them so that you can show everybody that you were with the star, that can be an unhealthy place to be. Because you're making it all about you.In contrast, you could be a roadie. So TS has a crew that she pays but who gladly serve her behind the scenes so that her show comes off great and that she, as the star of her show, is easily seen and heard for her fans. They work tirelessly before, during and after the show for one purpose--to make much about the TS who is the star. The same can be said of all the trainers and support team for TK and the KC Chiefs. The players are the stars and the support crew is all about making the stars look good and be successful as a team. These folks are behind the scenes and embrace their role gladly. We as Christians believe that Jesus is worthy of all our worship. We believe that he is the Star of stars for all time. But do our lives look like that? Do we live gladly serving him behind the scenes making him look good while pointing others to him? Or do we want to be seen serving him or talking about him in such a way that others think we're great?If someone were to follow you around for a week, what would they conclude about you? Who would they think you think is the star in your life?John the Baptist is the best roadie I can find in Scripture. His whole life he lives in obscurity in the wilderness, preparing for over a decade for his brief public ministry. And what ministry is that? To make much of the Star, Jesus Messiah, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This is where John the Apostle will take us today.It had been 400 years since God had spoken through one of his prophets. (Malachi) God broke the silence through an Elijah-like prophet called John, later called John the Baptizer because he preached a message of repentance and at the invitation, if you repented, you immediately were baptized in the River Jordan. This was considered evidence of your sincere belief that you genuinely repented of your sins and that believed that God forgave you because of your faith. This got a lot of attention. Soon crowds formed to hear the preaching of this great prophet. What was provoking to the religious leaders in Jerusalem was the fact that he wasn't just baptizing Gentile converts to Judaism but Jews. They taught that as God's chosen people, they were already saved and settled in his kingdom. (Not that that is what the OT scriptures actually teach, but I digress)There were rules and regulations about how to do things like preach, baptize, etc. John was unsettling the leaders because he seemed ok ignoring those rules. And, because he was getting large crowds, they knew they needed to investigate further and see if they needed to take action. Thus the inquiry in the desert. CONTEXTThis series is called Signs & Glory. Zooming out, this book of the Bible by John the Apostle or Disciple is written that we might believe that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God and that by believing have life in his name. That's the point of this gospel account of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.Zooming in further, we see this gospel account divided into 2 major sections. The first 12 chapters will show us the 7 signs of belief along with many others truths that illustrate and justify the teachings of Jesus. Chapters 13-20 will show us the glory of God on full display. We'll see the light, life and love of God through his divine AND human son, Jesus of Nazareth during the last week of his life.In John 1:19-2:12, the apostle John begins his gospel narrative like the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke) do: Beginning with John the Baptist. This chunk of scripture covers Jesus' first week of public ministry. It skips his actual baptism, though he implies it. It also skips his 40 days being tempted by Satan in the wilderness. John assumes his readers already know about this and, even if they don't, it's well covered in the synoptic gospels already. He's moving on so he can focus on the themes he feels led to focus on.6 of the 7 days are mentioned so we'll point those out along the way. Verse 19 is day 1 of his first week.The first 12 chapters of John are about the Signs of the Messiah. After that, John's focus is on the Glory of the Messiah. SERMON I. Who is John the Baptist & what's he about, according to John the Apostle? (1:19–28)II. What does J the B say about the Lamb of God, according to John the Apostle? (1:29–31)III. What does J the B say about of Jesus' Identity, according to John the Apostle? (1:32–34)CONCLUSION"In 1912, when the Titanic sank, a pastor named John Harper was aboard. As the ship went down, Harper ensured his young daughter was safely placed on a lifeboat but stayed behind to help others. Survivors later recounted how Harper swam from person to person in the freezing water, urging them to trust in Jesus. His final words to a man clinging to debris were, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved."-ChatGPT & GeminiBottom line: John the Baptist comes as the voice of one pointing others to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. We receive this forgiveness when we repent and believe.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How are you living today? Like a Jesus groupie or Jesus roadie?InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESGroupies vs RoadiesDo you know the difference between a roadie and a groupie? If you're on tour with a rockstar and you are part of the crew that travels with the rockstar, that sets up before the rockstar gets there, that tears down after the concert is over, and that works all the things that have to happen behind the scenes like lights and sound, then you're the roadie. You're someone who exists to lift up the star and to make much about the star of the show. In contrast, a groupie is a person who buys a ticket and shows up an hour before the show and then does everything they can to try to get a picture with the star of the show. They want it to be about them as much as it is about the star. They are not around for setting up or tearing down. They are simply there to be seen with the star.John the Baptist is a roadie. He does not want to be seen with the star in the sense that he doesn't want to be in the in the limelight. He makes it very clear that he is not the star and that he's not even worthy to do the most menial task for the star Jesus. This is the posture that God calls all of his followers to have. It is what we see John the Baptist model as well.“Charles Lamb was once in a group of men who were discussing what they would do if certain great men suddenly appeared in their midst. When the name of Jesus was mentioned, Lamb remarked that if other great men appeared, they would all rise but that if Jesus appeared, they would all kneel. Men in every age have felt this reverence, showing that among all who have known him is the feeling that he is far more than a prophet.” -Edward W. Bauman in his book the Life and Teaching of Jesus, pp. 195-196OUTLINESOutline from Willmington's Outline Bible OUTLINE JOHN 1John begins his Gospel by talking about the deity of Christ, then describes the ministry of John the Baptist. Jesus is baptized and calls his first disciples.I. FACTS CONCERNING THE PREINCARNATE CHRIST (1:1-5)A. His relationship to the Father (1:1-2)1. Christ's eternality is declared (1:1a, 2): He already existed in the beginning.2. Christ's deity is declared (1:b): He is God.B. His relationship to the world (1:3-5)1. He is the sole creator (1:3): Nothing exists that he didn't make.2. He is light and life (1:4-5): His life gives light to everyone, and the darkness cannot extinguish it.II. FACTS CONCERNING THE INCARNATE CHRIST (1:6-51)A. The miracle (1:14): God became human and lived on earth among us.B. The mission (1:10-13): He came to save sinners.1. Some rejected him (1:10-11): The world and even the people in his own country did not understand him.2. Some received him (1:12-13): Those who believed him became children of God.C. The men (1:6-9, 15-51)1. Christ's faithful forerunner (1:6-9, 15-34)a. John the Baptist and the crowds (1:6-9, 15-18): John makes three key statements to the people.(1) He is to serve as a witness to Christ (1:6-9).(2) Christ is greater than John or Moses (1:15-17).b. John the Baptist and the critics (1:19-28): John speaks to the Pharisees who are sent to cross-examine him.(1) John says that he is not the Messiah (1:19-20).(2) John says that he is not Elijah (1:21).(3) John says that he has been sent to prepare the way for the Lord (1:22-28).c. John the Baptist and the Christ (1:29-34)(1) He introduces the Savior (1:29-31).(2) He baptizes the Savior (1:32-34).2. Christ's first five followers (1:35-51)a. Andrew and John the apostle (1:35-39)b. Peter (1:40-42)c. Philip (1:43)d. Nathanael (1:44-51)QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.aiChatGPT 4.o

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: How do we receive the life Jesus promises?Scripture: John 1:6-13Bottom line: We receive the life Jesus promises by responding to the light, believing Jesus is who he says he is and will do all he's promised to do.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONYes, we're talking about life eternal. But eternal life isn't worth much if it's not also amazing. Joyful; peaceful; purposeful; powerful; life-giving. But it all starts with having life in the first place. We are born into a dark world. We need rescuing from that dark world. And when you're life hangs in the balance, rescue is all you can think of. The Lifeboat and the Drowning SailorIn 1982, Steven Callahan was stranded in the Atlantic Ocean after his sailboat sank. For 76 days, he drifted in a small inflatable raft, battling hunger, thirst, and exposure. One day, he saw a rescue ship approaching, but it couldn't immediately spot him. Desperate, he used a flare and a mirror to signal his location. Finally, the rescuers spotted him and pulled him to safety. • Connection: The rescue ship was there, fully capable of saving him, but Steven had to signal his willingness to be rescued. He had to acknowledge his need and respond to the rescuers' efforts. In the same way, Jesus has come into the world as the Light and the source of life, but we must respond to Him by receiving and believing.Steve recognized the rescue ship. God gave him the ability to see his potential rescue.Steve responded to the presence of this ship by sending up the flare and by using the mirror. Steve relied on the ship to do what he himself could not do--rescue him from his life and death situation. His belief that the ship could rescue him was seen in his willingness to acknowledge his need for a rescuer and that it could actually happen. This is what John will be talking about today in this passage. -ChatGPT helped me with thisCONTEXTThis series is called Signs & Glory. Zooming out, this book of the Bible by John the Apostle or Disciple is written that we might believe that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God and that by believing have life in his name. That's the point of this gospel account of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus the Christ.Zooming in further, we see this gospel account divided into 2 major sections. The first 12 chapters will show us the 7 signs of belief along with many others truths that illustrate and justify the teachings of Jesus. Chapters 13-20 will show us the glory of God on full display. We'll see the light, life and love of God through his divine AND human son, Jesus of Nazareth during the last week of his life.The first few weeks of our series, we zoom into one of the most important and profound passages in the Bible: The Prologue, John 1:1-18. This tells us a lot about who Jesus is and all he's promised to do.Today we'll focus on verses 6-13. We'll be introduced to John, but not the John who likely wrote this gospel. Instead, John the Baptizer, the greatest prophet to ever live, according to Jesus. John does what he calls each of us to do. Be a witness. Testify to the light to a dark world. What do you do when someone is ready to receive Jesus? Do you know how to lead someone to walk in the light with Jesus? John and John will tell us how today!SERMON Read and comment on John 1:6-13. Connecting the theology of the passage to practical application:Jesus says in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." In this passage, we see that gives us the opportunity this Christmas season to recognize the light (Jesus), maybe for the first time, respond to the light (by grace through faith), maybe for the first time, and then, truly relying on the light (power of God) to deliver on his promise stated in John 8:12. 1. Recognize the Light (vv. 6–9) • John the Baptist came to point others to Jesus, the true Light. Like him, we must clearly recognize that Jesus is the only source of life and truth in a world of spiritual darkness. • Application: Examine your own life—are you seeking truth and guidance from the Light of Christ, or relying on other “false lights” such as human wisdom, tradition, or personal effort?2. Respond to the Light (vv. 10–12) • 2 Reponses: 1) The world rejected Jesus because it failed to know Him. 2) But to those who receive Him and believe, He offers the incredible gift of becoming children of God. • Application: Respond to Jesus personally through faith. Have you truly “received” Christ or are you still keeping Him at a distance? If you have, are you living like children of light fleshing out the power of God each day?Don't be duped believing that you're a Christian becauseYou have the right lineage or heritage. My dad is a pastor or I am a Jew. These will not save you.You have decided to be a good person and to count on your good, moral behavior to save you. Even if your standard is the best in this world, you could never attain perfection. But the standard is perfection. "Be perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect." -JesusYou have decided that your kids will become Christians so you're going to do all the "right things" and believe that that is enough. Growing up in the Church is a great start. And it gives your kids every opportunity to hear the gospel and respond by grace through faith. However, it's no substitute for you showing and telling it yourself in your home where they see who you really are. Sending them to Christian school can be good. But if what they hear there contradicts with what they see at home, they will become disillusioned and perhaps do the opposite of what you think they need.The bottom line is there is no salvation with out God's power. And there's not activating God's power without genuine, saving faith on the person's part. Just like these baptisms signify today!3. Rely on God's Light (Power) (v. 13) • Becoming a child of God is not about heritage, human effort, or others' influence—it is a supernatural work of God's grace. Our salvation and spiritual growth depend on Him. • Application: Let's humbly rely on God for salvation, spiritual renewal, and power in our daily walk. Note: Help on this outline came from ChatGPT in the writing of this section. CONCLUSIONHere's another true story you can use:The Rescue of the Chilean MinersIn 2010, 33 miners were trapped 2,300 feet underground in a collapsed mine in Chile. For 69 days, they endured intense heat, darkness, and dwindling supplies. Rescuers worked tirelessly to drill an escape tunnel, eventually sending down a small capsule to bring the miners to safety. When the capsule arrived, each miner had to make a choice: climb in and trust the rescuers, or remain in the darkness. All 33 chose to step into the capsule, and every one of them was safely brought to the surface. • Connection: The rescuers provided the way to life, but the miners had to trust and respond. They couldn't save themselves, but they had to step into the capsule to be rescued. Similarly, Jesus has made the way to eternal life, but we must respond by believing in Him and receiving the life He offers.1. The Capsule Was Cramped and Claustrophobic 2. The Ascent Was Long and Unpredictable3. Physical and Emotional Strain4. No Other Way Out-ChatGPTBottom line: We receive the life Jesus promises by responding to the light, believing Jesus' is who he says he is and will do all he's promised to do.What about you?Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESYes, the rescue of the Chilean miners involved significant risks, especially for those stepping into the capsule. Here's a more detailed look at what the miners faced: 1. The Capsule Was Cramped and Claustrophobic • The capsule, called the Phoenix, was only 21 inches wide and barely large enough for one person to stand inside. For miners who had been trapped in darkness and isolation for over two months, stepping into such a confined space required tremendous mental strength. • Parallel: Faith in Christ often requires stepping out of fear and into trust, even when the way forward feels narrow or uncertain (cf. Matthew 7:13-14). 2. The Ascent Was Long and Unpredictable • The journey to the surface took about 15-20 minutes per miner, and there were risks of the capsule getting stuck or equipment failing during the ascent. The miners knew there were no guarantees, yet they chose to trust the rescuers. • Parallel: Trusting Jesus means placing your life in His hands, even when you can't control the process or fully see the outcome. 3. Physical and Emotional Strain • Many miners struggled with physical weakness and psychological trauma after weeks of confinement. Some feared they might panic during the ascent, but they still stepped into the capsule. • Parallel: Coming to Christ involves admitting our weakness and need for rescue, trusting that He will carry us through despite our brokenness (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10). 4. No Other Way Out • The capsule was the only way to escape the mine. If a miner chose to remain underground, they would have faced certain death. Accepting the risks of the capsule was their only hope for life. • Parallel: Jesus is the only way to eternal life (John 14:6). Just as the miners had no alternative but to trust the capsule, we have no alternative but to trust Christ for salvation.OUTLINESOutline from Willmington's Outline Bible OUTLINE JOHN 1John begins his Gospel by talking about the deity of Christ, then describes the ministry of John the Baptist. Jesus is baptized and calls his first disciples.I. FACTS CONCERNING THE PREINCARNATE CHRIST (1:1-5)A. His relationship to the Father (1:1-2)1. Christ's eternality is declared (1:1a, 2): He already existed in the beginning.2. Christ's deity is declared (1:b): He is God.B. His relationship to the world (1:3-5)1. He is the sole creator (1:3): Nothing exists that he didn't make.2. He is light and life (1:4-5): His life gives light to everyone, and the darkness cannot extinguish it.II. FACTS CONCERNING THE INCARNATE CHRIST (1:6-51)A. The miracle (1:14): God became human and lived on earth among us.B. The mission (1:10-13): He came to save sinners.1. Some rejected him (1:10-11): The world and even the people in his own country did not understand him.2. Some received him (1:12-13): Those who believed him became children of God.C. The men (1:6-9, 15-51)1. Christ's faithful forerunner (1:6-9, 15-34)a. John the Baptist and the crowds (1:6-9, 15-18): John makes three key statements to the people.(1) He is to serve as a witness to Christ (1:6-9).(2) Christ is greater than John or Moses (1:15-17).b. John the Baptist and the critics (1:19-28): John speaks to the Pharisees who are sent to cross-examine him.(1) John says that he is not the Messiah (1:19-20).(2) John says that he is not Elijah (1:21).(3) John says that he has been sent to prepare the way for the Lord (1:22-28).c. John the Baptist and the Christ (1:29-34)(1) He introduces the Savior (1:29-31).(2) He baptizes the Savior (1:32-34).2. Christ's first five followers (1:35-51)a. Andrew and John the apostle (1:35-39)b. Peter (1:40-42)c. Philip (1:43)d. Nathanael (1:44-51)QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh Wredberg“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: "Who is Jesus and why did he come?Scripture: John 1:1-51 John 1:1-2, Colossians 1:1:15-17, Phil 1:5-11, John 17:5, 20:31Bottom line: As God in the flesh, Jesus came to call people from death to life by faith in him.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONLast week we started at the end where John tells us of his purpose in writing about Jesus. He said that he writes these things so that we might believe that Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God and that by believing have life in his name. We will see this purpose unfold in his first words in his gospel account. John was one of the 12 and the disciple/apostle who lived the longest. He was the only one who wasn't martyred for his faith. Word is he lived into his 90's and died in the 90's--the AD 90s.John wrote to give us the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ from another angle. The other 3 synoptic gospels are each unique but share many of the same history, miracles and teachings. John will share less well-known history, miracles (he calls them "signs"), and teachings. Many see them as most profound. I share this perspective. This series is called Signs & Glory. The first 12 chapters will show us the 7 signs of belief along with many others truths the illustrate and bring credibility to the teachings of Jesus. Chapters 13-20 will show us the glory of God on full display. We'll see the light, life and love of God through his divine AND human son, Jesus of Nazareth. CONTEXTJohn starts his gospel account with a poetic prologue. The book is broken up into 2 main parts:1--7 sections on Jesus' public ministry followed by people's reaction to it. (Signs, John 1-12)2--The Passover weekend which includes the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. (Glory, John 13-20)John loves the number 7 as it represents completeness. As a result, he structures his gospel around this number for theological purposes. Ex. 7 signsEx. 7 "I am" statementsSERMON (lots of help from Carter)Read and comment on John 1:1-5.Then answer these questions:Who is Jesus?The Word. (1:1) To tell us the way to true life. Implying we're ignorant of the truth that sets us free from sin & death.The Life. (1:2-4) He came to call us from death to life.Implying we're dead in our sins. At physical death, our soul is separated from our body.At spiritual death, our soul is separated from our Creator, God, forever.It's all about life. He created/creates life.He sustains life.He brings new life.He brings abundant life.He brings eternal life w/ God forever.The Light. (1:4-5) To show us the way to true life.Implying we're blind and cannot see the truth.The Overcomer. (1:5)To free us from the kingdom of darkness forever.Implying we feel believe we're defeated.Darkness has not nor cannot overcome light.Therefore, death has not nor cannot overcome life.Yes, there are times when there is temporary overcoming that looks like defeat. But in light of eternity, light and life (& love) cannot be overcome forever.God (1:1) in the flesh (1:14).To show and tell us the way to true life through his divine and human son, Jesus Christ. ↘️✝️

It is good & necessary to Review, Retell, & Remember our History as a nation. Today we go on a pilgrim journey & trace the finger of God in the founding of our nation.  Listen, Learn & Love our Faithful God!

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "What can we learn from Noah and his sons?"Scripture: Genesis 9:18-29Hebrews 11:7; Gen 6:8-9; 7:5; 9:8-9; Micah 6:8Bottom line: We learn from Noah and his sons that as fellow image bearers we love and value each other as an act of faith in God's good plan for us.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"A rubbernecker is a term used to describe someone who slows down or stops to stare at something, often out of curiosity, especially at accidents or incidents on the road. The term comes from the idea of “rubbernecking,” where someone cranes their neck, almost stretching it like rubber, to get a better view of something happening.Examples: • A driver slowing down to look at a car crash on the side of the highway. • A pedestrian stopping to watch emergency responders at a scene.This behavior is often criticized, especially when it causes traffic delays or gets in the way of emergency workers. It's a mix of curiosity and distraction that can sometimes lead to further accidents." -ChatGPTCONTEXTIn the wake of God's flood of judgment and rescue effectively restarting creation, we see the righteous, blameless, faith-filled and faithful Noah sin along with his son, Ham. So while we see God re-create the world, it doesn't start without sin this time. Temptation and sin are still present.SERMON What do I want them to know? That even in success, we're all vulnerable to temptation and misusing God's blessings.That we're all made in his image.That sin has consequences...sometimes for generations.Honoring > Gossiping, which dishonors God and people.Why do I want them to know it?We're a blessed people meaning we're vulnerable right now unless we humble ourselves and become vigilant.We're blessed no matter our circumstances because we're image bearers.A lot hangs in the balance because the consequences of our sins has a long reach.Not honoring/dishonoring is a serious sin. What do I want them to do?Humble themselves.Remain vigilant.Walk as an image-bearerHonor others instead of gossiping about them.Why do I want them to do it?Because the consequences are great.How do they do this?Prayer for themselves and others.Care for themselves and others.Share with others what God is teaching you today.CONCLUSIONHow do they do this?Prayer for themselves and others.Care for themselves and others.Share with others what God is teaching you today.Main takeaways:We're all from one race made in the image of God. Therefore, love and value each and every person.Even mature believers can fall into sin; humble yourself and stay alert for temptations are ever-present.When we see someone sin, we have a choice. We canHonor them by respectfully and discreetly leading them towards repentance.Dishonor them by gossiping about reveling in their shameful actions.Sin has consequences that can ripple for generations.Even flawed people can be used by God. Don't let your sinful past keep you down. Repent, believe and move forward. Also, don't let the sin of others against you keep you down. Forgive and more forward whether they reconcile or not.Bottom line: We learn from Noah and his sons that as fellow image bearers we love and value each other as an act of faith in God's good plan for us.Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESGood summary: Lessons from Noah & his Sons: A Tale of Blessing, Sin, and RedemptionText: Genesis 9:18-29Main Points with Answers 1. What does the unity of humanity's origins teach us about God's plan for all nations? • All nations come from one family, showing that God's plan is for unity, shared purpose, and relationship with Him. This underscores our responsibility to love and value all people as part of God's creation. 2. How does Noah's sin remind us of our vulnerability to temptation? • Even the most faithful people are not immune to sin. Noah's failure after his great obedience shows the need for vigilance and humility in guarding against temptation. 3. How do Ham's actions and Shem and Japheth's response challenge us to honor others? • Ham's disrespect highlights the destructiveness of dishonor and gossip, while Shem and Japheth's actions demonstrate the importance of covering others' failures with grace and respect. 4. What do Noah's blessings and curses reveal about the consequences of our actions? • Ham's dishonor led to a generational curse, while Shem and Japheth's honor brought blessings. Our choices have lasting effects on us and those who come after us. 5. How does Noah's life and death point us to God's grace and covenant faithfulness? • Noah's story shows that even flawed people can be used by God. His faithfulness to Noah's family reminds us of His unchanging promises and grace despite human sin.-ChatGPT3 Question version:Lessons from Noah & his Sons: A Tale of Blessing, Sin, and RedemptionText: Genesis 9:18-29Main Points in Question Form (ChatGPT inspired) 1. What does Noah's sin teach us about the ongoing struggle with temptation? (Genesis 9:20-21) • Even the faithful are vulnerable to sin, reminding us to remain vigilant and humble. 2. How do Ham's actions and Shem and Japheth's response challenge us to honor others? (Genesis 9:22-23) • Ham's dishonor shows the harm of gossip, while Shem and Japheth's actions highlight the power of love and respect. 3. What do Noah's blessings and curses reveal about the impact of our choices? (Genesis 9:24-27) • Our actions carry lasting consequences for us and future generations, but God's faithfulness remains constant.OUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?Creator/re-creatorHoly judgeMerciful rescuerFather of humanity and creationProvider of good things; blessorCurser of those who dishonor him and his peopleSustainer of lifeWhat has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Creates/restoresJudgesRescuesParentsProvidesBlessesCursesSustainsWho am I? (In light of 1 & 2)His creation created in his image; image-bearerHis childHis rescued, forgiven rebel childReceiver of his blessings and/or cursesThe one whom he sustainsWhat do I get to do? (In light of who I am)Bear his imageFollow his leadJoin him in rescuing others far from God but close to meBless and not curseFor the rest of my lifeHow do I do it?Pray for those far from God but close to me.Care for those far from God but close to me.Share with those far from God but close to me.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "What's the Bible all about? God remembers his promises." Part 2Scripture: Genesis 8:1-9:17Luke 17:20-33; Hebrews 11:7-10The Bible is all about God's story. Here, Noah's story is a snapshot of the Bible's grand narrative—a holy God seeking to redeem, restore, and renew fallen creation by a merciful covenant through Jesus Christ.God remembers his promises to his people.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONStories of the brave, acts big and small, sacrifice and service are what we remember today. Like the story of Vietnam War hero JimmyG. Stewart, an Army staff sergeant from West Columbia, West Virginia - one of the 58,000 Americans who lost their lives in combat during the conflict. When five fellow Soldiers of his six-man squad were wounded near An Khe in May 1966, Stewart held his position to protect his men, crawling through heavy fire to retrieve ammunition from his comrades and tossing back enemy-thrown grenades. When reinforcements arrived, 23-year-old Stewart continued to fight and was eventually killed while holding his position. The wounded he gave his life to protect were recovered and evacuated. A year later, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. This year marks 50 years since the last combat troops left South Vietnam.I share this story for a few reasons relevant to today.Our veterans are potential stories like this. They willingly choose to put themselves in harms way for the sake of defending others from tyranny. On Memorial Day we remember those like Jimmy G. Stewart here for giving his life in the line of duty because he went above and beyond the call of duty to love others with his whole life. What a picture of Christ. We honor our veterans as they put themselves in a position to do that for others.They fight of an imperfect nation that is founded on principles gleaned in part from scripture that empowers her citizens to live differently in all of life. We remember these who have fallen and these who serve our country in this way, we see in Genesis 8:1 that God remembers his promises to Noah meaning he is moved to act mercifully on behalf of sinful people in this world.We will see how precious human life is to the Lord. Stewart saw it as worthy of his own which is at least in part why he was willing to sacrifice his own. At least twice in scripture, Rachel and Hannah, saw barren women be remembered by God and given a child, the desire of their heart. God sees you in your pain even if that pain is of your own making. He remembers and this moves him to act mercifully and redemptively. Redemption of sinful people is at the forefront of his loving acts.The thief on the cross calls on Jesus to remember him when they cross over. Jesus remembers him and says today you will be with me in paradise. This is a great picture of what God remembering looks like.His acts on our behalf are in light of our needs...our greatest needs. Needs that only He can satisfy.CONTEXTIn the wake of God's flood of judgment is a new, redemptive creation. God judged sin and humanity and creation had to deal with the consequences. God takes sin seriously. Sin has consequences. And Noah believed that God's word is trustworthy. So he believed and acted accordingly building an ark to save his family from God's flood of holy judgment. And that ark saved his family and a remnant of the animal kingdom. Now we see God's judgment swing to his faithful covenant with Noah and creation. He is starting over. He is giving humanity a second chance.SERMON Outline modified from BethancourtI. GOD IS HOLY AND JUST. HE MUST PUNISH SIN. Noah and God's judgment (6:1-22) LAST WEEKA. The purpose of God's judgment (6:1-7)B. The patience of God's judgment (6:8-16)C. The promise of God's judgment (6:17-22)II. GOD IS GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL. HIS LOVE MAKES A WAY BACK. Noah and God's rescue (7:1-8:19)A. God rescues us from the penalty of his judgment (7:1-16)B. God rescues us from the power of his judgment (7:17-24)C. God rescues us from the presence of his judgment (8:1-19) THIS WEEKIII. GOD IS SOVEREIGN CREATOR REDEEMING US THROUGH HIS SON'S COVENANT OF LOVE. Noah and God's covenant (8:20-9:29) THIS WEEKA. The Lord and the covenant with creation (8:20-22)B. The Lord and the covenant with Noah (9:1-11)C. The Lord and the sign of the covenant (9:12-17)D. The Lord and the lineage of the covenant (9:18-29)Big ideas in this passage today:Hinge point in the story: Gen 8:1 "God remembered Noah..."Up to this point, the flood story has been one of judgment. From 8:1 on it's a story of redemption."God had not forgotten Noah and his family. To 'remember' in the Bible is not merely to recall to mind; it is to express concern for someone, to act with loving care for him. When God remembers his people, he does so 'with favor' (Neh 5:19; 13:31)." -NIV Study Bible, 1985"When Genesis 8:1 says, “God remembered Noah,” it doesn't mean that God had forgotten Noah and then recalled him suddenly. In the Bible, the phrase “God remembered” is often used to signify that God is about to act on His promises or fulfill His covenant.In this case, God's “remembering” Noah signifies His care and commitment to Noah and all creation, especially after the long, intense flood. This “remembrance” marks the beginning of the floodwaters receding, as God brings about a new stage in His plan for humanity and the earth. Here, God is staying true to His covenant with Noah by preserving him, his family, and the animals through the flood...it means that God is intervening in a meaningful, faithful way to fulfill His promises or enact His plans. So in Genesis 8:1, “God remembered Noah” signifies divine care and the beginning of restoration after judgment." -ChatGPT"Throughout the Bible, when God “remembers” someone, it signifies His attention, compassion, and faithfulness, often resulting in His direct intervention. Here are some key examples: 1. Abraham and Lot (Genesis 19:29): When God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, He “remembered Abraham” and spared Lot. God's covenant relationship with Abraham led to His merciful action in delivering Lot from the judgment on the cities. 2. Rachel (Genesis 30:22): After a long period of barrenness, “God remembered Rachel; he listened to her and enabled her to conceive.” God's remembrance here signifies His compassion and care for Rachel, ultimately fulfilling her longing for a child. 3. Israel in Egypt (Exodus 2:24): When the Israelites were suffering under slavery, “God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.” This remembrance prompts God to act by raising up Moses and setting in motion the liberation of His people from Egypt. 4. Hannah (1 Samuel 1:19): After Hannah prayed earnestly for a son, “the Lord remembered her,” and she conceived and gave birth to Samuel. God's remembering here shows His response to Hannah's heartfelt prayer and His intervention in her life. 5. God's Promise to Israel (Psalm 105:8): The psalmist declares that God “remembers his covenant forever, the promise he made, for a thousand generations.” This indicates God's unwavering commitment to His promises and His ongoing relationship with His people. 6. The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23:42-43): Although the word “remember” is used differently here, the thief's request, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” appeals to Jesus' mercy and faithfulness. Jesus' reply assures him of eternal life, demonstrating the compassion inherent in divine “remembrance.”In each case, God's “remembering” is more than mere recollection—it signals His intention to act faithfully and mercifully on behalf of His people, often in response to their need or in fulfillment of His covenant promises." -ChatGPTPerhaps we should ask Jesus to remember us as well...The flood story reveals four main characteristics of God. God is... 1. Holy and Just: God judges human wickedness, showing His intolerance for sin. 2. Gracious and Merciful: He offers time for repentance and preserves Noah's family. 3. Faithful to keep his Promises: God promises to sustain creation, never to destroy it by flood again. 4. Sovereign Creator: He controls nature, demonstrating His power to both judge and restore.These qualities reveal a God who is just, merciful, faithful, and sovereign, committed to both righteousness and renewal.Said another way...The story of Noah and the flood reflects the broader story of God in the Bible by capturing key themes of Creator-God, sovereignly creating a good world where humanity sins/falls and reaps judgment. Despite this, merciful God makes a way for wicked humanity to find redemption and restoration through the covenant relationship with Creator-God through Christ Jesus, our Savior.CONCLUSIONWhat do I want them to know?God sees, remembers, and keeps his promise of mercy.The story of God in macro and how our story fits in micro. God judges sin but remember mercy.Why? Because his character is holy love.What do I want them to do?Show and tell their story in the context of God's story. Remember that God sees, remembers and keeps his promise of mercy.Why? This is how we rescue people close to us but far from God.How?By learning this macro story, seeing our story within that context, and then sharing that story with others where we live, work, learn and play.Bottom line: Noah's story is a snapshot of the Bible's grand narrative—a holy God seeking to redeem, restore, and renew fallen creation by a merciful covenant through Jesus Christ. God sees and remembers his promise of mercy.At the end of the day, my question to you is this: "Are you in the boat?" Is your life protected from God's holy wrath? Have you entered through the only door to salvation? His name is Jesus. Cf. John 14:6Jesus spoke of Noah as well:“Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,' or ‘There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst.” Then he said to his disciples, “The time is coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. People will tell you, ‘There he is!' or ‘Here he is!' Do not go running off after them. For the Son of Man in his day will be like the lightning, which flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other. But first he must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. “Just as it was in the days of Noah, so also will it be in the days of the Son of Man. People were eating, drinking, marrying and being given in marriage up to the day Noah entered the ark. Then the flood came and destroyed them all. “It was the same in the days of Lot. People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. But the day Lot left Sodom, fire and sulfur rained down from heaven and destroyed them all. “It will be just like this on the day the Son of Man is revealed.”‭‭Luke‬ ‭17‬:‭20‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESMy early notes:Genesis 8:1a "God remembered Noah..."God "remembering" is the cue for God about to act redemptively i.e. He's about to rescue; mercy and grace are enroute. God acts with his covenant in mind because God is faithful and God is merciful.At this point, God's story pivots from his holy, justified wrath and judgment to his extravagent mercy and redemption offered to his people by grace through faith.His rememberance leads to merciful action on God's part. From destruction or de-creation to renewal or re-creation. Applications that might follow from this:Rest in God's "remembering." God "remembering" is God acting on your behalf in a redemptive, life-changing way. It's renewal replacing wrath. (8:1)Wait patiently for God's timing. (8:6-12) Noah waited patiently for God to speak before he disembarked from the ark.Worship God today. (8:20) Noah's first act after disembarking was to worship God. Worship is our response to God's remembering. He is always worthy whether we act like it or not.Nurture a culture of life. (8:21-22) God is the creator and sustainer of life. He treasures all life. He calls us to as well. Animal life, but more importantly, human life. All life is precious--human life is sacred. So sacred, you forfeit yours when you take someone else's. We're called to lead the charge on protecting life and that includes nurturing a culture that values life above all else. Respect and Protect Life. (9:1-7) Valuing life includes protecting those who cannot protect themselves (unborn, children, disabled, elderly, dying).Live securely and confidently in the covenant relationship we enjoy in Christ. (9:8-11) A marriage rooted in God's covenant relationship with us will give us confidence and security to love when tempted to fear.Remember and rest in God's promises. (9:12-17)God will remember his covenant with us. He'll remind us that he remembers through his bow in the sky that he is faithful and keeps his promises.These rest on the fact that God remembers; he acts on behalf of his people with compassion, mercy, and faithfulness. He grows our confident assurance in his trustworthiness when we are tempted to forget.Where is Noah's ark today?"The location of Noah's ark remains one of the great mysteries, as no definitive archaeological evidence has been found to confirm its location. According to Genesis 8:4, the ark came to rest “on the mountains of Ararat,” traditionally associated with the region of Mount Ararat in modern-day Turkey. This has led many explorers and archaeologists over the centuries to search that area, but no conclusive evidence has been found.There have been several claims of sightings and discoveries on or near Mount Ararat, including photographs and wooden structures reportedly found at high altitudes. However, these claims have not been substantiated with enough verifiable evidence, and most remain controversial or unconfirmed.In the end, whether or not the ark will ever be found is uncertain. Some believe that the wood may have been repurposed by Noah's descendants after the flood or that it has simply deteriorated over time. Others suggest that, if it exists, God may allow it to remain hidden as an enduring element of faith rather than empirical evidence.For many, the ark serves more as a theological symbol of God's salvation and judgment, rather than something that needs to be found physically to affirm the biblical account." -ChatGPTIt could also be in western Armenia or even northwestern Iran as those are close to Mt. Ararat in Turkey.Summary"You're absolutely correct. Genesis 8:1 is indeed the hinge point in the flood narrative, marking the transition from judgment to salvation, from divine wrath to mercy. The phrase “God remembered Noah” encapsulates the shift from destruction to renewal and signals that God's redemptive plan is at work. Given this centrality, all application points could indeed flow from or relate to this theme of God's remembrance. Here's a revised approach:1. Rest in God's Faithfulness and Care (8:1) • Application: God's “remembering” Noah reminds us that, even when we feel forgotten or isolated, God is actively mindful of us and our needs. His faithfulness is unwavering, especially during seasons of hardship. This calls us to trust that God's timing is perfect and that He is present and working, even when we can't see it.2. Wait Patiently for God's Timing (8:6-12) • Application: Because God “remembers” us, we can wait with hope, just as Noah waited for the waters to recede. Waiting isn't passive but an active faith in God's provision and guidance. Instead of rushing ahead, we're called to trust God's process, knowing He will bring us through in His timing.3. Respond to God's Faithfulness with Worship (8:20) • Application: When Noah leaves the ark, his first act is to worship through sacrifice. This is a fitting response to God's faithfulness in remembering him and his family. When we recognize God's merciful intervention in our lives, we are called to respond with gratitude, worship, and dedication to Him.4. Trust in God's Commitment to Life (8:21-22) • Application: God's promise never to curse the ground again is a direct result of His remembering Noah and His commitment to sustaining creation. We can trust that God values and sustains life. This invites us to live in hope, knowing that God's sustaining power is over creation and our lives, even in a broken world.5. Respect and Protect Life (9:1-7) • Application: Because God “remembers” and values humanity, He commands respect for life and emphasizes human dignity. We are called to value life as sacred, reflecting God's heart for His creation. This includes protecting others, acting justly, and honoring the image of God in each person.6. Live in Covenant Relationship with God (9:8-11) • Application: The covenant with Noah flows from God's remembrance and commitment to humanity and all creatures. God's remembrance invites us to respond in covenant faithfulness, living in relationship with Him, and being stewards of His world.7. Remember God's Promises (9:12-17) • Application: The rainbow is a visible reminder of God's covenant and faithfulness to remember His promises. Just as God remembers us, we are called to remember Him and His promises. By clinging to His faithfulness, we strengthen our faith and are reminded of God's enduring mercy and love in our lives.By centering the applications around God's remembrance, we underscore the passage's message of God's mercy, faithfulness, and the invitation for us to respond in trust, gratitude, and covenantal living. This “remembrance” becomes the anchor for our faith and actions in every part of life." -ChatGPTKey Themes • New Beginnings: Noah and his family represent a fresh start for humanity, meant to live in obedience to God and care for creation. • God's Mercy: Despite humanity's failings, God commits to sustain creation and gives humans renewed responsibility. • Divine Justice and Human Dignity: God's instruction against murder underscores the sanctity of life made in His image. • The Covenant: The rainbow as a sign of the covenant is a powerful reminder of God's promise and His ongoing relationship with humanity.Genesis 8-9:17 highlights God's mercy, the sanctity of life, and the importance of the covenant. It also sets the foundation for a worldview that values life and trusts in God's promises, even amidst a broken world.Good summary:"The story of the flood in Genesis (chapters 6–9) tells us much about God's character, values, and the way He engages with humanity. Here are some of the primary ways it reveals who God is:1. God's Justice and Holiness • The flood is a response to human corruption and violence. Genesis 6:5-6 says that God saw the great wickedness on earth and was “grieved” in His heart. God's decision to judge humanity with the flood shows His intolerance of sin and injustice. His holiness requires a world that aligns with His goodness, and the flood was a response to the pervasive moral decay of Noah's time.2. God's Patience and Long-Suffering • While the decision to flood the earth is swift in the biblical account, the story implies that God waited patiently while humanity had a chance to change. Noah was “a preacher of righteousness” (2 Peter 2:5), and his 120 years building the ark can be seen as a period when God gave people a chance to repent. This patience reveals God's mercy, even in His judgment.3. God's Mercy and Covenant Faithfulness • God's decision to save Noah and his family highlights His mercy and commitment to His creation. Although humanity deserved judgment, God chose a path that preserved life. He instructed Noah to bring animals onto the ark, ensuring the survival of all living things. After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:8-17), promising never to destroy the earth with water again. The rainbow serves as a symbol of His covenant, highlighting His faithfulness to humanity despite their shortcomings.4. God's Sovereignty and Power Over Creation • The flood narrative shows God's absolute power over creation. He commands the waters to rise and fall, demonstrating His control over the natural world. The floodwaters are a reversal of the order He established at creation, where He separated waters to form dry land. By re-establishing the earth post-flood, God reaffirms His sovereignty as Creator, showing He can both judge and restore.5. God's Desire for a Righteous People • God chooses Noah, “a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time” (Genesis 6:9), and establishes a covenant with him, revealing His desire for a people who walk in righteousness. God's plan for Noah's descendants is one of blessing, hoping they would embody a restored relationship with Him and reflect His justice and goodness on earth.6. God's Grace and Renewal of Creation • After the flood, God gives Noah a mandate similar to Adam's: to “be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth” (Genesis 9:1). This echoes the original creation mandate, suggesting that God's intention for humanity and creation remains one of growth, flourishing, and harmony. He desires to partner with humanity in caring for and filling the earth with goodness.7. God as a Covenant Maker • The covenant with Noah is foundational, setting a pattern for the covenants God will establish later with Abraham, Moses, and David, and ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The Noahic covenant emphasizes God's promise to preserve creation, foreshadowing the redemptive plan that would unfold over time.In summary, the flood story tells the story of God as a holy and just Judge, yet also as a patient, merciful, and covenant-keeping Creator. It illustrates His commitment to renewal and restoration even in the face of human failure. Through judgment and mercy, God's desire for a faithful, righteous humanity and His love for creation shine through. This story is foundational, pointing forward to God's ongoing work to redeem and renew the world."-ChatGPTThe PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "What's the Bible all about?" Part 1Scripture: Genesis 6:9-7:24Genesis 8:1a; Matt 24:36-44; Hebrews 11:7-10The Bible is all about God's story. Here, Noah's story is a snapshot of the Bible's grand narrative—a holy God seeking to redeem, restore, and renew fallen creation by a merciful covenant through Jesus Christ. We also see that God's word is trustworthy. Are you on the boat?INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONOur church deployed a third team to FL this past week for disaster relief in New Port Richey. (Show pics and video)As they recover from hurricane Helene, the folks in western NC probably feel like they've experienced a flood of biblical proportions. But, in fact, they only got a small fraction of what the world experienced in the Noahic flood. How many of each animal did Moses put on the ark? The answer is none because Noah is the one that put the animals on the ark actually, God did. Kind of a silly joke, but in fact, Moses is writing Genesis telling the story of Noah in Genesis six through nine.Let's say you're having lunch with somebody and they ask you the question what is the Bible all about your answer could be basically telling them the story of Noah and the arc because in this story, we see the character of God on display and we see the purpose for which God has Done in creation and a way that explains the macro story of God.CONTEXTSpiraling from the fall into more and more evil, the Way of Cain is dominating the world stage while the Way of Seth is a mere remnant of people. They don't have much of God's word to live on. They don't have the ways of God spelled out to them. They are in need of light in the darkness.But they do have a prophecy. A word from the Lord. (Gen 3:15) A light to hang hope on.After seeing the Way of Cain summarized in Cain's evil genealogy, it's followed by the Way of Seth and his genealogy. Adam and Eve are still alive and watching this unfold with I can't imagine how much guilt and anguish over what they've done. The only thing keeping them alive and sane is the hope in the few words of God in Genesis 3:15, "And I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your offspring and hers (Jesus); he will crush your head, and you will strike his heal (at the cross)."At the beginning of Seth's genealogy, we see God reminding us of how he created us--in his image. We were created God-like. Nothing in all of creation is more like God than humanity. Now we're in a state of dreadful depravity. We're born sinners who are capable of incredibly evil attitudes, words and actions. And we don't have to look far to see not only the truth of that but that we're heading downhill towards a level of evil equal to that just prior to the Flood. But this reminder--that we're created in his image--is there to give us hope. Hope that the Way of Seth--the Way of Jesus--can and will deliver many from sin and death, shame and guilt, hell itself.The whole thing here about the sons of God, daughters of men, and the Nephilim is simply there to show us how bad things had gotten in the world. To show us that “The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.” (Genesis‬ ‭6‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬) To show us that things were so bad that God grieved and regretted that he'd created humanity in the first place. As a result, God would wipe out all of creation (except for the ones following the Way of Seth) and re-create the world.SERMON Outline modified from BethancourtI. GOD IS HOLY AND JUST. HE MUST PUNISH SIN. Noah and God's judgment (6:1-22) THIS WEEKA. The purpose of God's judgment (6:1-7)B. The patience of God's judgment (6:8-16)C. The promise of God's judgment (6:17-22)II. GOD IS GRACIOUS AND MERCIFUL. HIS LOVE MAKES A WAY BACK. Noah and God's rescue (7:1-8:19)A. God rescues us from the penalty of his judgment (7:1-16)B. God rescues us from the power of his judgment (7:17-24)C. God rescues us from the presence of his judgment (8:1-19)III. GOD IS SOVEREIGN CREATOR REDEEMING US THROUGH HIS SON'S COVENANT OF LOVE. Noah and God's covenant (8:20-9:29) NEXT WEEKA. The Lord and the covenant with creation (8:20-22)B. The Lord and the covenant with Noah (9:1-11)C. The Lord and the sign of the covenant (9:12-17)D. The Lord and the lineage of the covenant (9:18-29)These are my main points today:The flood story reveals four main characteristics of God. God is... 1. Holy and Just: God judges human wickedness, showing His intolerance for sin. 2. Gracious and Merciful: He offers time for repentance and preserves Noah's family. 3. Faithful to keep his Promises: God promises to sustain creation, never to destroy it by flood again. 4. Sovereign Creator: He controls nature, demonstrating His power to both judge and restore.These qualities reveal a God who is just, merciful, faithful, and sovereign, committed to both righteousness and renewal.Said another way...The story of Noah and the flood reflects the broader story of God in the Bible by capturing key themes of Creator-God, sovereignly creating a good world where humanity sins/falls and reaps judgment. Despite this, merciful God makes a way for wicked humanity to find redemption and restoration through the covenant relationship with Creator-God through Christ Jesus, our Savior.CONCLUSIONWhat do I want them to know?The story of God in macro and how our story fits in micro. Why?Because this is our mission: to show and tell the story of God through our story.What do I want them to do?Show and tell their story in the context of God's story.Why? Because this is why we're still here. This is how we rescue people close to us but far from God.How?By learning this macro story, seeing our story within that context, and then sharing that story with others where we live, work, learn and play.Bottom line: Noah's story is a snapshot of the Bible's grand narrative—a holy God seeking to redeem, restore, and renew fallen creation by a merciful covenant through Jesus Christ. We also see that God's word is trustworthy. Are you on the boat?At the end of the day, my question to you is this: "Are you in the boat?" Is your life protected from God's holy wrath? Have you entered through the only door to salvation? His name is Jesus.““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESGood summary:"The story of the flood in Genesis (chapters 6–9) tells us much about God's character, values, and the way He engages with humanity. Here are some of the primary ways it reveals who God is:1. God's Justice and Holiness • The flood is a response to human corruption and violence. Genesis 6:5-6 says that God saw the great wickedness on earth and was “grieved” in His heart. God's decision to judge humanity with the flood shows His intolerance of sin and injustice. His holiness requires a world that aligns with His goodness, and the flood was a response to the pervasive moral decay of Noah's time.2. God's Patience and Long-Suffering • While the decision to flood the earth is swift in the biblical account, the story implies that God waited patiently while humanity had a chance to change. Noah was “a preacher of righteousness” (2 Peter 2:5), and his 120 years building the ark can be seen as a period when God gave people a chance to repent. This patience reveals God's mercy, even in His judgment.3. God's Mercy and Covenant Faithfulness • God's decision to save Noah and his family highlights His mercy and commitment to His creation. Although humanity deserved judgment, God chose a path that preserved life. He instructed Noah to bring animals onto the ark, ensuring the survival of all living things. After the flood, God made a covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:8-17), promising never to destroy the earth with water again. The rainbow serves as a symbol of His covenant, highlighting His faithfulness to humanity despite their shortcomings.4. God's Sovereignty and Power Over Creation • The flood narrative shows God's absolute power over creation. He commands the waters to rise and fall, demonstrating His control over the natural world. The floodwaters are a reversal of the order He established at creation, where He separated waters to form dry land. By re-establishing the earth post-flood, God reaffirms His sovereignty as Creator, showing He can both judge and restore.5. God's Desire for a Righteous People • God chooses Noah, “a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time” (Genesis 6:9), and establishes a covenant with him, revealing His desire for a people who walk in righteousness. God's plan for Noah's descendants is one of blessing, hoping they would embody a restored relationship with Him and reflect His justice and goodness on earth.6. God's Grace and Renewal of Creation • After the flood, God gives Noah a mandate similar to Adam's: to “be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth” (Genesis 9:1). This echoes the original creation mandate, suggesting that God's intention for humanity and creation remains one of growth, flourishing, and harmony. He desires to partner with humanity in caring for and filling the earth with goodness.7. God as a Covenant Maker • The covenant with Noah is foundational, setting a pattern for the covenants God will establish later with Abraham, Moses, and David, and ultimately fulfilled in Christ. The Noahic covenant emphasizes God's promise to preserve creation, foreshadowing the redemptive plan that would unfold over time.In summary, the flood story tells the story of God as a holy and just Judge, yet also as a patient, merciful, and covenant-keeping Creator. It illustrates His commitment to renewal and restoration even in the face of human failure. Through judgment and mercy, God's desire for a faithful, righteous humanity and His love for creation shine through. This story is foundational, pointing forward to God's ongoing work to redeem and renew the world."-ChatGPTThe PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "Are you calling on the name of the Lord?"Scripture: Genesis 6:1-8 & 4:26Gen 4:19-26; 5:1-2Bottom line: The Way of Seth (and Jesus) is to walk with him. We walk with him by calling on and seeking him by grace through faith each day.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONIn the Lord of the Rings (LOTR) epic tale, there are two opposing forces at work--the way of Sauron who wants to enslave all of middle earth and the way of freedom that is very generically portrayed as some Providential power of good. This is not unlike many epic tales of good versus evil. This flows from the early pages of Genesis where we see it displayed as the way of Cain (evil) and the way of Seth (good, hope, prophecy).Genesis 3-5 is not unlike the new Amazon Prime series called the Rings of Power (ROP) which serves as the prequel to the LOTR epic. The ROP sets the stage for the tremendous evil storm coming in and through Sauron which is where the LOTR begins.Throughout the story (LOTR), the main characters Frodo, Gandalf and Aragorn all seem to have this unified belief that Providence (my word, not Tolkien's) is at work on their behalf (or that they are working on Providence's behalf), though Tolkien works with super subtly to avoid anything close to an allegory. The true story of Noah and the Ark and the flood (which we'll begin next week) is being set up even now. The tremendous wickedness across the planet at the time of Genesis 6 is unprecedented. And like in the LOTR series, there will be those who seek to rearrange their entire lives around seeking the favor of God, pleasing God, and seeking first his kingdom and his righteousness.What does it mean to "Call on the name of the Lord?"I think it's a posture of humility rooted in the conviction that we need God more than air. A conviction that causes us to arrange/rearrange our lives around his priorities. This is what we see the characters in LOTR do. This is what I see scripture repeatedly calling us to do. It's more than praying, though it is praying. It is earnestly seeking his word, his ways, his will and his wisdom with the intention of putting it into practice daily. It is surrendering your life to the One who saved yours.Are you calling on the name of the Lord daily?Are you seeking first his kingdom and his righteousness daily?Are you finding favor with the Lord daily?Are you pleasing God by believing that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him?Are you surrendering all to Him today?CONTEXTSpiraling from the fall into more and more evil, the Way of Cain is dominating the world stage while they Way of Seth is a mere remnant of people. They don't have much of God's word to live on. They don't have the ways of God spelled out to them. They are in need of lights in the darkness.But they do have a prophecy. A word from the Lord. (Gen 3:15)After seeing the Way of Cain summarized in Cain's evil genealogy, it's followed by the Way of Seth and his genealogy. Adam and Eve are still alive and watching this unfold with I can't imagine how much guilt and anguish over what they've done. The only thing keeping them alive and sane is the hope in the few words of God in Genesis 3:15, "And I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman, and between your offspring and hers (Jesus); he will crush your head, and you will strike his heal (at the cross)."At the beginning of Seth's genealogy, as Chris mentioned last week, we see God reminding us of how he created us--in his image. We were created God-like. Nothing in all of creation is more like God than humans. Now we're in a state of dreadful depravity. We're born sinners who are capable of incredibly evil attitudes, words and actions. And we don't have to look far to see not only the truth of that but that we're heading downhill towards a level of evil equal to that just prior to the Flood. But this reminder--that we're created in his image--is there to remind us and give us hope. Hope that the Way of Seth--the Way of Jesus--can and will deliver many from sin and death, shame and guilt, hell itself.The whole thing here about the sons of God, daughters of men, and the Nephilim is simply there to show us how bad things had gotten in the world. To show us that things were so bad that God grieved and regretted that he'd created humanity in the first place. As a result, God would wipe out all of creation (except for the ones following the Way of Seth) and re-create the world.SERMON Q. What do I want them to know?A. 1. The utter wickedness all over the earth; how bad we were and areThe consequences of sin are real badThe judgment of God on our sinfulness is holy and justThe depravity of humanity is on full display hereIt's setting the table for God's flood of judgment...and mercyQ. Why do I want them to know it?A. Because it's God's story being written by and through those of us with the humility, faith and courage to live it out. It's a costly journey. Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. 1. Call on the name of the Lord (Gen 4:26)Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness (Matt 6:33)Live to please him by grace through faith (Heb 11:6)Enjoy the Lord's favor (Gen 6:8)Follow Jesus (Luke 9:23)Ask yourself these questions:Do I understand the world and epic I'm in?Do I believe God has called me into this story? His-story? History?Do you not see the hand of God working in your life to this end? The end of an unlikely hope that will come through humble, courageous, hopeful men and women, boys and girls, who have hope in their Creator's epic story called life?Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Because this is the Pearl of Great Price. This is the Treasure Hidden in a Field. He is worthy of everything in my life. My whole life. Luke 9:23Q. How can they begin to do this?A. Call on the Lrod daily to show you the way.4:26 "At that time, people began to call on the name of the Lord."God is light, life and love. (1 John)Remember who and whose you are in Christ. If you follow Jesus Christ, like follow him words, ways and works, then you'll remember...We're a son/daughter of Adam --born sinners in need of a SaviorBut, we're also a redeemed, forgiven son/daughter of Jesus Christ (the Way of Seth)We're created God-like from birth (in his image) (Gen 1:26-28; 5:1)We're created on purpose for a purpose (Gen 1:26-28; 5:2)Depraved, yes.Unredeemable, no!Unforgivable, no!Being created in God's image means we're more like God than anything else in the universe! Ex. I can't preach this message to any other creature on earth and move them to act like God calls us to. Only people can be inspired by God's word. We have to decide: Do I believe that? Will I act on that belief?Don't look to people to be your heroes. They are not your hope. Jesus is your Hero capital H. He calls us to live heroically (sacrificially) for his glory-not ours.Find favor in God's eyes by walking with God. (Gen 5:21-24; Micah 6:8)CONCLUSIONAre you calling on the name of the Lord each day? Are you seeking first...really seeking first...his kingdom and his righteousness? Are you rearranging your life around his priorities and perspective? This is all just pre-k for the rest of eternity. Do you get that?Examine your life right now. As we soberly remember the price that was paid by Jesus Christ when he died in our place for our sin to free us, he reminds us that he passes the baton to us to share this good news that forgiveness is available to all, though not automatic. If we don't tell them, who will? If we don't live this out, do we really believe it?Bottom line: The Way of Seth (and Jesus) is to walk with him. We walk with him by calling on and seeking him by grace through faith each day.““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬InvitationHow do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESThe PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

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Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "What does 'Raising Cain' & sibling rivalry have in common?"Scripture: Genesis 4:1-16Jude 11, Hebrews 11:4, Micah 6:7-8, James 1:14-15, Matt 5:21-26, Matt 18:21-22Bottom line: The way of Cain leads to sin, death and hell. The way of Able leads to grace, mercy and life. INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONCanesOne of our sons-in-law lives in Charlotte. When he comes to visit, he tries to work in a visit to the chicken finger restaurant called Raisin' Canes. Apparently, they don't have any in Charlotte yet.:-)Where did the restaurant name "Raisin' Canes" come from?Raising Cane's, the popular chicken finger restaurant chain, was named after the founder Todd Graves' dog, a yellow Labrador named “Raising Cane.” When Graves was starting the restaurant in the mid-1990s, his initial plan to name the place something different was met with the suggestion from a friend to name it after his dog. Graves embraced the idea, and the dog became the namesake and mascot for the chain.- ChatGPTExpressionWhere does the expression come from?The expression “raising Cain” refers to causing trouble, making a scene, or behaving in a rowdy or disruptive manner. It comes from the biblical story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4, where Cain, the firstborn son of Adam and Eve, kills his brother Abel out of jealousy. Because of this violent act, Cain became associated with sinful or rebellious behavior.When someone is said to be “raising Cain,” it implies that they are acting in a wild, reckless, or disruptive way, much like the connotations of Cain's rebelliousness in the Bible. The phrase became popular in the 19th century and has been used colloquially ever since.- ChatGPTThis is also the origin of sibling rivalry. CONTEXTAdam and Eve are exiled and banished from the garden of Eden. They are living east of the garden and several generations have passed. Cain and Abel are the only sons of Adam and Eve. They likely continue to have daughters as well as Cain and Abel's sons and daughters. The tribe is growing. There are two kinds of people in these clans and tribes. Those who follow the way of Cain and those who follow the way of Abel.Another practice that has developed some is that of offering sacrifices to the Lord. The way Cain and Abel do this becomes a moment of revelation for us even today.SERMON Q. What do I want them to know?A. There are basically 2 ways to live: the way of Cain and the way of Abel.Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Because we will live one way or the other. There are consequences to following the way of Cain.Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Reject the way of Cain and follow the way of Abel. Follow Abel as he follows the Lord.Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. So that you will find the favor and blessing of the Lord in your life.Q. How can they begin to do this?A. Turn from your ways (ways of Cain) to the Lord (ways of Abel) asking for him to show you the way to that hope found only in Jesus Christ. Tell others how they can also find this hope.CONCLUSIONTalk about sibling rivalry? My brother and I are 3.25 years apart (I'm the older). No other siblings either. You might say we had a rivalry going on--especially when no one else was around. I can specifically recall several times when I thought, "I hate him and I want to kill him!" Now that might sound funny to you because you can relate to that emotion due to your own sibling rivalry. I'm glad you can relate but let me sober you a little. We're all capable of murder. In Matthew 5:21-22, Jesus makes it clear that when we hate someone it's the same in God's eyes as if we murdered them. It's the idea that in our rage we're ready to murder them--we just lack the opportunity to do so without getting caught.Why do I share this? Because we all naturally go the way of Cain.God's grace is that we don't have to if we go Abel's way. Bottom line: The way of Cain leads to sin, death and hell. The way of Able leads to grace, mercy and life. ““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:InvitationWhat is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESThe expression “raising Cain” refers to causing trouble, making a scene, or behaving in a rowdy or disruptive manner. It comes from the biblical story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4, where Cain, the firstborn son of Adam and Eve, kills his brother Abel out of jealousy. Because of this violent act, Cain became associated with sinful or rebellious behavior.When someone is said to be “raising Cain,” it implies that they are acting in a wild, reckless, or disruptive way, much like the connotations of Cain's rebelliousness in the Bible. The phrase became popular in the 19th century and has been used colloquially ever since.-ChatGPT 10.06.24Raising Cane's, the popular chicken finger restaurant chain, was named after the founder Todd Graves' dog, a yellow Labrador named “Raising Cane.” When Graves was starting the restaurant in the mid-1990s, his initial plan to name the place something different was met with the suggestion from a friend to name it after his dog. Graves embraced the idea, and the dog became the namesake and mascot for the chain.There have actually been multiple “Raising Cane” dogs over the years. The first Raising Cane (Cane I) was the original dog the chain was named after, and subsequent Labradors have carried on the name as the brand grew. It's a fun, personal touch to the restaurant's identity!- ChatGPT 10.06.24The PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESOUTLINESN/AQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Join Simtheory: https://simtheory.aiCall the Corey Hotline: +1 (650) 547-3393 (Not $4.95/min)Our community: https://thisdayinai.com----CHAPTERS:00:00 - Corey Hotline Cold Intro00:18 - OpenAI Dev Day Recap: Realtime API05:58 - Testing the Realtime API with Corey Hotline test09:04 - Comparing OpenAI's Realtime API Advanced Voice Mode to Retell for Calling (Corey Hotline v2)21:50 - GPT-4o Image Fine Tuning28:48 - Prompt Caching in OpenAI API43:07 - Model Distillation: Fine Tuning with Outputs from OpenAI Frontier Models50:36 - What else is coming for the Realtime API?53:28 - The New Microsoft CoPilot, Voice & Vision with CoPilot1:08:37 - Flux 1.1 PRO Update1:15:19 - OpenAI's Response to Claude Artifacts: Canvas1:26:26 - Meta Rayband Doxing1:33:55 - Mike's weekly LOLThanks for listening! We appreciate all of your support. Please share your experience with Corey!

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: "How is there judgment and hope?"Scripture: Genesis 3:15-24Romans 5:15-19; Numbers 21:4-9Bottom line: Even in the face of God's curses and judgment of humanity, there is hope for us in King Jesus.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTIONHurricane Helene wreaked havoc on our state and nation this past week. We want to pause and pray right now for those who are still dealing with that aftermath.Why do we have hurricanes anyway? And earthquakes, meteorites, tsunamis, floods, droughts, and pandemics? We have them because of The Fall.CONTEXTAdam and Eve have been created and married. They are in a blissful garden of existence where they have all that they need and their Creator, the Lord God, spends time walking and talking with them everyday. They have no relational distress with God or each other or creation. They are experiencing perfect peace and joy. And yet they find themselves capable of being tempted to forget that God is good and doubt his trustworthiness.They give into the temptation to doubt God's goodness and trustworthiness and disobey God's single, clear command. They fall from grace and we have the first--the original--sin. This sin has far reaching consequences too including Hurricane Helene.SERMON Q. What do I want them to know?A. Sin has consequences including God's judgment. But it does sometimes come with God's grace too.Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Because we should remember that there's always hope in Christ Jesus.Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Embrace the judgment but lean into the grace and point others to it.Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. So we don't despair and give up when we're tempted to.Q. How can they begin to do this?A. Turn from your ways to the Lord asking for him to show you the way to that hope found only in Jesus Christ. Tell others how they can also find this hope.NOTE the chiasm here in vv. 11-19:Sin of Adam (9-11)Sin of Eve (12)Sin of Serpent (13)Judgment of Serpent (14-15) But also the hope of his defeat prophesied (protoevangelion = first gospel)Judgment of Eve (16)Judgment of Adam (17-19)What's at the focal point is: Sin, death and Satan will be defeated by Eve's offspring. Why not Adam's? Because her offspring is Jesus and he was born of a virgin, not of Adam or his seed.`CONCLUSIONBottom line: Even in the face of God's curse and judgment of humanity, there is hope in King Jesus.““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:InvitationWhat is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESSynonyms for enmitynoun a world free from enmity between nations and races:HOSTILITY, animosity, antagonism, friction, antipathy, animus, opposition, dissension, rivalry, feud, conflict, discord, contention;My first question:I have a question about Adam and Eve in the Bible. I am seminary trained so talk to me as if I have some knowledge about the Bible. My question is why did God remove Adam and Eve from the garden?"God's removal of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:22-24 is primarily to prevent them from accessing the Tree of Life after their disobedience. After Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, they gained the knowledge of good and evil, which was not meant for them. Their newfound awareness brought sin and separation from God into the world.Genesis 3:22 states, "Behold, the man has become like one of us in knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand and take also of the tree of life and eat, and live forever—" God immediately expels them from Eden to prevent them from eating from the Tree of Life and thus living eternally in their fallen state.So, the expulsion from Eden serves a dual purpose:1. As a consequence of their disobedience (i.e., sin), they are removed from the place of God's direct presence and blessing.2. It is also an act of mercy, ensuring they do not live forever in a corrupted state.In a theological sense, this introduces the concept of death as a limitation, but also as part of God's redemptive plan, allowing for eventual resurrection and redemption rather than eternal life in a fallen condition." -ChatGPTMy second question: But if Adam and eve stay in the garden and eat from the tree of life and while there repent and believe, would they still live forever in a corrupted state? I seems to me that they would be forgiven?"That's an interesting theological question, and you're right to focus on the dynamic tension between the Tree of Life, repentance, and the consequences of sin.Here's the key theological consideration: **repentance and belief** are indeed central to forgiveness in the biblical narrative, but there's more to the situation in Genesis than just forgiveness. The Garden of Eden is not simply about access to eternal life but also about the state in which that life would be lived. 1. **The Nature of the Tree of Life and Eternal Life**: In Genesis 3:22, God's concern is not just about forgiveness but about the state in which humanity would live eternally. The Tree of Life represents the ability to live forever, but in the context of the narrative, eternal life in a corrupted state would be a disaster. Imagine living forever with the ongoing effects of sin—physical, emotional, and spiritual decay. Even if Adam and Eve repented and believed, they would still be living in a world now subject to the curse of sin (pain, toil, suffering, and eventual death as outlined in Genesis 3:16-19). So the problem isn't just moral guilt but the entire reality of living in a world where sin has entered. God's removal of them from the garden was not simply about preventing eternal life—it was about preventing eternal life **in a corrupted world**. Repentance alone doesn't reverse the cosmic consequences of sin. The entire creation needed restoration (Romans 8:20-22).2. **The Larger Redemptive Plan**: While forgiveness is essential, so is the **plan of redemption** that goes beyond forgiveness to full restoration. For instance, the ultimate goal of the biblical narrative isn't just the forgiveness of individual sins, but the **renewal of all creation**. This is why Christ's work includes not just forgiveness but also the promise of **resurrection** and **new creation** (Revelation 21-22). Adam and Eve eating from the Tree of Life after sinning might grant them eternal life, but not in the transformed, glorified state God intends for His people.3. **Why Death is Necessary**: In God's redemptive plan, death became a necessary part of undoing the effects of sin. God allowed death to enter the world not merely as punishment but also as part of the plan that ultimately leads to resurrection. Paul speaks of death as the last enemy to be defeated (1 Corinthians 15:26), but through Christ, death becomes the gateway to new life. Had Adam and Eve eaten from the Tree of Life while in their fallen state, they might have bypassed death, but they would have missed out on the full restoration that comes through death and resurrection.4. **The Typology of Christ and the Tree of Life**: Theologically, Christ is often seen as the fulfillment of the Tree of Life. In the new creation, those who believe in Him will once again have access to the Tree of Life (Revelation 22:14). This shows that eternal life comes not just through forgiveness but through transformation. Christ doesn't just forgive; He renews all things, including the body and the entire creation. Adam and Eve, even if they had repented and believed in the garden, would still need this fuller redemptive work to be fully restored to God's ultimate intention for humanity.In summary, even if Adam and Eve had repented and believed, staying in the garden and eating from the Tree of Life would have meant eternal life in a fallen state. Forgiveness alone would not have solved the problem of the corruption of their nature and the curse on creation. God's plan required not just forgiveness but the eventual defeat of death and the renewal of all creation, something that could only be achieved through Christ's redemptive work. The removal from Eden, then, can be seen as a merciful act, preserving them for a future, greater restoration." -ChatGPTFrom Wilmington's Bible Handbook:It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3.Notes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's family"Blessing" is a key word hereChoice: Tree of knowledge of good and evilTrust God's definition of good and evil, orSeize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves?Serpent (against God) tells a different story. He lies when he tells them that if they eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that they will be like God. Because they already are like God (made in his image).The PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?OUTLINESOUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things.I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “What's wrong with our world?"Scripture: Genesis 3:8-16Romans 5:15-19Bottom line: Our world was broken by our sin but will be fully restored by Jesus Christ. Hope follows heartbreak.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTIONIn his book The Genesis Factor, David Helms says that Genesis answers many of life's questions. He says or implies that Genesis 3 answers at least 3 questions:Is God really good? If God is good, why are there boundaries? (God's character)Can you trust God's word no matter what? (The Bible)What's the matter with us? (Humanity) What's wrong with the world?Ask yourself this question: How would I feel if I did something that I knew God told me not to do that infected or cursed each and every one of my children, grandchildren and beyond? How would I feel? What would I do? This is what Adam and Eve had to live with. And did so for nearly a millennium.When we ask the question, what's wrong with our world, the snarky answer could be, "Adam and Eve screwed it up. Now we're cursed." And that would be true. But it's time that we realize that we can't pass the buck. We must take responsibility for our own thoughts, behaviors, attitudes and beliefs.Our world is broken because of sin. Their sin, yes. But our sin too.But there's hope. And it is found in none other than the Lord Jesus Christ as prophesied in Genesis 3.There's hope after the heartbreak.And, as for Adam and Eve, it's because of this hope that I'd like to think that they believed God and repented. "What's wrong with the world today?"David Helms writes,"Put differently, which view makes better sense of the world in which we live —the voice of Genesis, or the voice of Peter Fromm? Is humanity basically good? Or has moral corruption touched us all? Many years ago a famous correspondence in the London Times wrestled with these very issues. The editors of the newspaper asked individuals to respond to the question, "What is wrong with the world today?" The best letter of all was also the shortest. It read,Dear Sir,I am,Yours faithfully,G. K. ChestertonReader, do you believe that? If asked, "What is wrong with the world," would your response be, "I am?" You see, before you make a judgment on the rest of humanity, you must come to terms with the nature of yourself: Who are you, really?" -David HelmsCONTEXTAdam and Eve have been created and married. They are in a blissful garden of existence where they have all that they need and their Creator, the Lord God, spends time walking and talking with them everyday. They have no relational distress with God or each other or creation. They are experiencing perfect peace and joy. And yet they find themselves capable of being tempted to forget that God is good and doubt his trustworthiness.SERMON Q. What do I want them to know?A. Two things:Our world is broken because of our sin. Our world has hope because of God's mercy.Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Two reasons:Because it makes sense of why things are so broken, andBecause it shows we don't have to give in to despair. Hope can follow heartbreak.Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Two things:Rest in the hope that comes through the woman's offspring (Jesus Christ), andShare this good news with our broken world where you live, work, learn and play.Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Because this is what you do with good news--you share it!Q. How can they begin to do this?A. Several ways:Train to remain (abide) in Christ daily.Train to remain in your mission field ready to prayer, care and share his love.Prayer-Care-Share where we live, work, learn and play:Pray for your neighbors (where you live, work, learn and play),Care for them as you become aware of their needs, and Share with them why you cared for them when the opportunity comes up.NOTE the chiasm here in vv. 11-19:Sin of Adam (9-11)Sin of Eve (12)Sin of Serpent (13)Judgment of Serpent (14-15)Judgment of Eve (16)Judgment of Adam (17-19)What's at the focal point is: Sin, death and Satan will be defeated by Eve's offspring. Why not Adam's? Because her offspring is Jesus and he was born of a virgin, not of Adam or his seed.`CONCLUSIONBottom line: Our world was broken by sin but will be fully restored by Jesus Christ. Hope follows heartbreak.““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:InvitationWhat is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESG.K. Chesterton (1874–1936) was an English writer, philosopher, lay theologian, and literary critic known for his wit, paradoxes, and diverse body of work. He wrote in many genres, including essays, fiction, poetry, and journalism, and was a prominent Christian apologist. Chesterton is perhaps best known for his *Father Brown* detective stories and his book *Orthodoxy*, which defends Christian faith as rational and joyful.A devout Christian, Chesterton converted to Roman Catholicism in 1922, and his faith heavily influenced much of his later writing. He critiqued secularism, materialism, and modernism, often engaging with prominent thinkers like George Bernard Shaw and H.G. Wells in public debates.His style was marked by humor, irony, and a love for paradox, as he often used apparent contradictions to reveal deeper truths. His works continue to influence Christian thought and apologetics today.My first question:I have a question about Adam and Eve in the Bible. I am seminary trained so talk to me as if I have some knowledge about the Bible. My question is why did God remove Adam and Eve from the garden?"God's removal of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:22-24 is primarily to prevent them from accessing the Tree of Life after their disobedience. After Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, they gained the knowledge of good and evil, which was not meant for them. Their newfound awareness brought sin and separation from God into the world.Genesis 3:22 states, "Behold, the man has become like one of us in knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand and take also of the tree of life and eat, and live forever—" God immediately expels them from Eden to prevent them from eating from the Tree of Life and thus living eternally in their fallen state.So, the expulsion from Eden serves a dual purpose:1. As a consequence of their disobedience (i.e., sin), they are removed from the place of God's direct presence and blessing.2. It is also an act of mercy, ensuring they do not live forever in a corrupted state.In a theological sense, this introduces the concept of death as a limitation, but also as part of God's redemptive plan, allowing for eventual resurrection and redemption rather than eternal life in a fallen condition." -ChatGPTMy second question: But if Adam and eve stay in the garden and eat from the tree of life and while there repent and believe, would they still live forever in a corrupted state? I seems to me that they would be forgiven?"That's an interesting theological question, and you're right to focus on the dynamic tension between the Tree of Life, repentance, and the consequences of sin.Here's the key theological consideration: **repentance and belief** are indeed central to forgiveness in the biblical narrative, but there's more to the situation in Genesis than just forgiveness. The Garden of Eden is not simply about access to eternal life but also about the state in which that life would be lived. 1. **The Nature of the Tree of Life and Eternal Life**: In Genesis 3:22, God's concern is not just about forgiveness but about the state in which humanity would live eternally. The Tree of Life represents the ability to live forever, but in the context of the narrative, eternal life in a corrupted state would be a disaster. Imagine living forever with the ongoing effects of sin—physical, emotional, and spiritual decay. Even if Adam and Eve repented and believed, they would still be living in a world now subject to the curse of sin (pain, toil, suffering, and eventual death as outlined in Genesis 3:16-19). So the problem isn't just moral guilt but the entire reality of living in a world where sin has entered. God's removal of them from the garden was not simply about preventing eternal life—it was about preventing eternal life **in a corrupted world**. Repentance alone doesn't reverse the cosmic consequences of sin. The entire creation needed restoration (Romans 8:20-22).2. **The Larger Redemptive Plan**: While forgiveness is essential, so is the **plan of redemption** that goes beyond forgiveness to full restoration. For instance, the ultimate goal of the biblical narrative isn't just the forgiveness of individual sins, but the **renewal of all creation**. This is why Christ's work includes not just forgiveness but also the promise of **resurrection** and **new creation** (Revelation 21-22). Adam and Eve eating from the Tree of Life after sinning might grant them eternal life, but not in the transformed, glorified state God intends for His people.3. **Why Death is Necessary**: In God's redemptive plan, death became a necessary part of undoing the effects of sin. God allowed death to enter the world not merely as punishment but also as part of the plan that ultimately leads to resurrection. Paul speaks of death as the last enemy to be defeated (1 Corinthians 15:26), but through Christ, death becomes the gateway to new life. Had Adam and Eve eaten from the Tree of Life while in their fallen state, they might have bypassed death, but they would have missed out on the full restoration that comes through death and resurrection.4. **The Typology of Christ and the Tree of Life**: Theologically, Christ is often seen as the fulfillment of the Tree of Life. In the new creation, those who believe in Him will once again have access to the Tree of Life (Revelation 22:14). This shows that eternal life comes not just through forgiveness but through transformation. Christ doesn't just forgive; He renews all things, including the body and the entire creation. Adam and Eve, even if they had repented and believed in the garden, would still need this fuller redemptive work to be fully restored to God's ultimate intention for humanity.In summary, even if Adam and Eve had repented and believed, staying in the garden and eating from the Tree of Life would have meant eternal life in a fallen state. Forgiveness alone would not have solved the problem of the corruption of their nature and the curse on creation. God's plan required not just forgiveness but the eventual defeat of death and the renewal of all creation, something that could only be achieved through Christ's redemptive work. The removal from Eden, then, can be seen as a merciful act, preserving them for a future, greater restoration." -ChatGPTFrom Wilmington's Bible Handbook:It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3.Notes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's family"Blessing" is a key word hereChoice: Tree of knowledge of good and evilTrust God's definition of good and evil, orSeize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves?Serpent (against God) tells a different story. He lies when he tells them that if they eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that they will be like God. Because they already are like God (made in his image).The PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625Hamilton puts it this way:"God acts and speaks; man rebels; God punishes; God protects and reconciles." P. 201GOD ACTS & SPEAKS MAN REBELS GOD PUNISHES GOD PROTECTS & RECONCILESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?God is present with his people. He was in the garden with A & E. He was with Israel when he lived as Jesus of Nazareth. He's with his people today in us as Holy Spirit.God is omniscient (all knowing/seeing/hearing).God is holy which means he's just.What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?He walks and talks with his people who know and trust him.He is fully aware of all that's going on in our world and in our minds.He punishes his kids when they disobey. He pours out his wrath on those who sin but don't repent and turn back to him.Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)I am his son in the Lord. I get to be with my father and learn from him and be known by him.I am known by him inside out.I am forgiven because even though I sinned and deserve God's wrath, he made a way for me to be forgiven. He did this by sending Jesus Christ to die in my place for my sins on the cross. I am forgiven because I believe that. However, if I haven't repented of my sin then I'm not forgiven yet. I am hell bound. I am heading where people who don't want to be with God go.What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)I get to be his son and to enjoy all the benefits of being his son forever.I get to be known and loved.I get to live forgiven, beloved and intentionally sharing this good news with others. But if I don't believe, I live in misery doomed to be separated from my Creator forever. How do I do it?Rest in my identity as his son and serve others selflessly.Spend time with God listening and talking.I believe and receive his forgiveness through Jesus Christ. I readily forgive others by grace through faith.OUTLINESOUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things.I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “What's the matter with us?"Scripture: Genesis 3:1-7; Matthew 4:1-10Bottom line: When we forget or doubt that God is good and his word is trustworthy, we will give in to temptation and sin against our Creator.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTION[Holding an apple while I talk]In his book The Genesis Factor, David Helms says that Genesis answers many of life's questions. He says or implies that Genesis 3 deals with at least 3 questions:Is God really good? If God is good, why are there boundaries? (God's character)Can you trust God's word no matter what? (The Bible)What's the matter with us? (Humanity)Who do you trust more than anyone in the world?Now, imagine that that person is now also the most powerful person in America.They can do anything they want to. They are powerful and you trust them.Now, imagine you're with them and they say to you, "I have a gift for you." They hand you what looks like a credit card. They tell you this card gives you unlimited access to every source of food in America. Restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, farms...you name it...for free. This card also gives you access to any and every university, professor, expert, library or bookstore in America. Any source of wisdom you seek you have unlimited access to for free. Pretty amazing, huh?They add that there's also a restaurant where you can find food that increases your health and extends your life. This super-restaurant is always open and you have unlimited access to it as well.Now, they have one restriction. You cannot eat at the only 5 Star restaurant in town. The one in the middle of town. Let's say you drive by it every day too. This restaurant also has a supercomputer with the best AI on the planet. It has access to all knowledge in our world--good and evil. But if you order from there, if you partake from there, you will die. So you enjoy the unlimited access you have to food, knowledge and wisdom all over town. But one day you notice the 5 Star restaurant you're restricted from eating at. You notice that the parking lot is full, though. You find yourself walking over. You can see people enjoying their food but not dying. So you walk in and the host welcomes you in. You ask why aren't people dying from the food? He answers, "Oh that's just to keep you from gaining the same power that your friend now has. You won't die if you eat this food or partake of this AI bar." Forgetting what your trusted friend or family said, you find the host's words more believable the more he talks. You smell the food and see the expressions on everyone's faces. They all look like they're enjoying everything. You look around to see who's looking and then you go in and get a plate...and you eat. What just happened?You gave in to the temptation to ignore the one restriction you had from your most trusted person who gave you unlimited access to everything else. And you died. CONTEXTAdam and Eve have been created and married. They are in a blissful garden of existence where they have all that they need and their Creator, the Lord God, spends time walking and talking with them everyday. They have no relational distress with God or each other or creation. They are experiencing perfect peace and joy. And yet they find themselves capable of being tempted to forget that God is good and doubt his trustworthiness.SERMON OUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things. In other words, it answers the question:What's the matter with us?I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we forget or doubt that God is good and his word is trustworthy, we will give in to temptation and sin against our Creator.Read Matthew 4:1-10 and see how Jesus resisted temptation. Three times he is tempted and three times he responds with scripture. He remembers that God's word is true and authoritative and that the Father is good. We must immerse ourselves in scripture with people and on our own getting a good grip on the Bible so that we'll not sin against God.Ps 119:11 "I've hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." -DavidSinning against God leads to death.When we die spiritually, it's because we have been infected. We've been infected by a spiritual virus that can only be cured by a blood transfusion that uses Christ's shed blood at the cross. This blood coupled with our belief that it saves is what saves us from sin and death, shame and guilt, and hell itself."But God demonstrates his love in this, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." -Romans 5:8There's hope even in Genesis 3“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.””‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:InvitationWhat is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTES"Who are we really? Genesis 2 replies:We are divine dust.We are to live under divine rule.We are divinely created for relationship."- David Helms, p. 59"What Is God's Mission?What is God's mission in the world? If we, as Christians, are supposed to love God and obey him, it would certainly help if we knew what he was up to. Fortunately, God has given us the Bible, a book that tells us exactly what he is up to!If we are going to understand God's mission, the first thing we have to understand is that the Bible is not primarily a storehouse of random facts about God or Israel or the world.Nor is it primarily a collection of rules. Instead, it is primarily a fascinating and powerful story about God. This story is told in four acts:1. Creation: The first act is Creation. "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Gen. 1:1).God created the world and everything in it, and he called it "very good" (1:31). God loved and enjoyed what he had created!At the pinnacle of his creation are a man and woman. They were different from the rest of his creation because he created them in his image and likeness(1:26-28). Unlike the animals, they could be entrusted with managing the world God created (1:28), making families (1:28), and working to enhance the garden(2:15). Also, unlike the animals, they were moral and spiritual beings who were instructed not to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. A good way to summarize the uniqueness of human beings is to say that they are spiritual, moral, social, and cultural beings who were supposed to use the totality of their lives to please God. And at the time of creation, they did please God. In fact, everything in the garden was just the way it was supposed to be.Adam and Eve had a right relationship with God, with each other, and with the rest of the world.2. The Fall: The second act is the Fall. Just after God created the world, the Bible's story takes a dark turn.Adam and Eve decided to rebel against their Creator (3:1-7). Instead of loving him supremely and obeying him completely, they disobeyed him and sought to take his place on the throne of the world and the throne of their lives. They believed the lie of Satan that they could become gods. In response to their sin, God cast them out from the garden of Eden.Being cast out from the garden of Eden represented the fact that things were no longer the way they were supposed to be. Adam and Eve no longer had a right relationship with God, with each other, or with God's world. Each of us, just like Adam and Eve, has sinned against God. Each of us, like Adam and Eve, experiences broken relationships with God, with oth-ers, and with the world around us. Our lives are characterized not only by God's goodness but by sin and its consequences. Even as we experience the beauty and goodness of life in God's creation, we also experience the ugliness and badness of sin and its consequences.3. Redemption: The third act is Redemption. Immediately after Adam and Eve sinned, God promised to send a Redeemer, a Savior, to save them from their sins (3:15).This promise represents our first "peek" at the gospel.Throughout the Bible, God continues to reveal more and more about who this Redeemer would be until, finally, in the Gospels, we learn that he is Jesus!Jesus—fully God in all of who he is-came to earth and took on full humanity. He was fully man and fully God. He lived a perfect life, but was crucified at the hands of sinful humans. When he died on the cross, was buried, and rose again, he was making atonement for our sins and providing salvation for the world. On the cross, he took the guilt for our sins upon his shoulders so that he could suffer the condemnation that we should suffer. When he rose from the dead, he rose as a victor, having paid fully for our sins and secured the future salvation of the world." -Bruce Ashford, I Am Going, pp. 4-5From Wilmington's Bible Handbook:It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3.Truths to noteGod existed and exists eternallyGod exists in plural unity as the Holy TrinityGod was in the beginningGod was before anything existed in our universe and the universe itselfGod created everything that exists in the universe and the universe itselfGod creates something from nothing Latin ex nihiloAn atheist scientist came to God and said, “We've figured out how to make a man without you.” God said, “OK, let me see you do it.” So the atheist bent down to the ground and scooped up a handful. But God stopped him and said, “Oh, no you don't. Get your own dirt!”God creates with words. He spoke creation into existence. His words still have power.God creates purposefully for his glory and our good.God starts with light to display his creation and provide an essential ingredient for life.God only creates things that are good. Together it was all very good and will be again.God is a God of order and moves from chaos to order. Elohim (gods) intensifies God's divine majesty, when used as a noun. When used as a verb, it's singular for there is only one true God.God created all things. "Heavens and earth"God created an "open" universe, not a "closed" one where he never interactsNotes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's family"Blessing" is a key word hereChoice: Tree of knowledge of good and evilTrust God's definition of good and evil, orSeize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves?Serpent (against God) tells a different story. He lies when he tells them that if they eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that they will be like God. Because they already are like God (made in his image).The PatternSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Let's ask some summary sermon questions:Q. What do I want them to know?A. Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Q. How can they begin to do this?A. OUTLINESOUTLINE (GENESIS 3:1-24) by H. WillmingtonThis section describes the corruption of all things.I. THE TRANSGRESSION OF ADAM (3:1-24)A. Adam's disobedience (3:1-6)1. The treachery (3:1-5)a. Satan begins by casting doubt on God's Word (3:1-3): "Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?"b. Satan concludes by denying God's Word (3:4-5): "'You won't die!' The serpent hissed...'You will become just like God, knowing everything, both good and evil.'"2. The tragedy (3:6): Both Eve and Adam disobey God and eat of the forbidden tree.B. Adam's deceit (3:7-8): He attempts to cover his nakedness by making clothes from fig leaves. He then hides among the trees.C. Adam's despair (3:9-11): He acknowledges his fear and nakedness before God.D. Adam's defense (3:12-19): Adam blames Eve, but Eve blames the serpent.E. Adam's discipline (3:14-19): God sets up his divine court in Eden and imposes the following sentences:1. Upon the serpent (3:14-15): to be the most cursed of all creatures and to crawl on its belly, eating dust. Also, his head will be crushed by the offspring of the woman.2. Upon the woman (3:16): to suffer pain in childbirth and to be ruled by her husband.3. Upon the man (3:17-19): to endure wearisome labor as he grows food from unproductive soil and to eventually die physically.4. Upon nature (3:18): to be infested with thorns and this-tles.F. Adam's deliverance (3:15, 20-21)1. The promise (3:15): Someday a Savior will defeat Satan, the serpent!2. The provision (3:20-21): After Adam names his wife Eve, God clothes both of them with animal skins.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “How is Humanity to Relate to Our Creator?Scripture: Genesis 2:4-17 NIVMatthew 4:4; 19:4-5Bottom line: Humanity relates to our Creator by finding wisdom and life on his terms instead of ours. Humble surrender.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTIONPerhaps the older of the two versions of creation. Certainly the more personal one. We don't just see God as the massive deity who spoke all creation into existence. We see him here as a personally involved, master craftsman. One who gets his hands dirty and blows the paint dry with his own breath. The Lord God placed Adam in the garden in Eden with two unique trees. One gives life abundant and eternal and is given to enjoy and partake. One gives profoundly moral wisdom but is forbidden.Let's look at Genesis and ask ourselves 2 questions as we do:God, what are you saying to me today?God, what do you want me to do about what you're saying to me today?CONTEXTPerhaps the older of the two versions of creation. Certainly the more personal one. We don't just see God as the massive deity who spoke all creation into existence. We see him here as a personally involved, master craftsman. One who gets his hands dirty and blows the paint dry with his own breath. The Lord God placed Adam in the garden in Eden with two unique trees. One gives life abundant and eternal and is given to enjoy and partake. One gives profoundly moral wisdom but is forbidden.SERMON Who is God?What has he done?Who am I?What do I get to do?How?Sovereign CreatorGod has created me in his image on purpose for a purpose.Someone God personally crafted in his image & breathed life into for his glory & creation's good.Work & tend his garden right where he placed me for the privilege & blessing that it is. Work for/serve my Lord God as a priestly-servant in this world from a rhythm & posture of rest where he has sovereignly put/placed me.YHWH or Lord as in personal, relatable God whose authority & rule I am under.God placed/put me where I am at rest.A priestly-servant & protector in the Lord God's world.I do his priestly-servant work in the garden of this world on his behalf & as his image bearer.I do his priestly-servant work where I live, work, learn & play on his behalf & as his image bearer. I do it by representing people to God & God to people.Abundant ProviderPlaced me at rest in the middle of abundant resources where I live, work, learn & play.A priestly-servant & protector fully resourced for the Lord God's work where I live, work, learn & play.Leverage the Lord God's infinite resources to love God & love people by multiplying image bearers for his glory & our good.Being a bright, salty image-bearer who's out to nurture the garden of this world like a priestly-servant would: with unconditional love.Sovereign WisdomGiven us sovereign wisdom in the form of his word. Also, the freedom to rebel against him.His beloved; A rebellious former servant with a badly corrupted image of God who's forsaken his priestly-servant role in this world by believing a lie that God cannot be trusted.Repent & believe that God wants me back & has made a way for me to become his shining & salty image-bearer again.Repent of my sins against my sovereign creator & believe that he's fully trustworthy as seen in his love shown to me through the cross of Jesus Christ.CONCLUSIONSo the applications are laid out there in this chart. But the specific thing that God is calling you to may not be in that chart. You can still repent and believe that he is fully trustworthy. Repent of your sins against the Lord God today. Today is the day of salvation. Turn from your wicked, doubting ways to Christ Jesus as the Lord and Savior of your life. Turn your life over to him today.Two trees. One that brings life, abundant and eternal. One that brings death when approached on one's own terms. We either trust God and take him at his word, repeating life, or we go our own way which leads to death. That's the difference between the narrow way and the broad way. Bottom line: Humanity relates to our Creator by finding wisdom and life on his terms instead of ours. Humble surrender.Applications:Invitation““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬Bottom line: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESFrom Wilmington's Bible Handbook:It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3.QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Let's ask some summary sermon questions:Q. What do I want them to know?A. Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Q. How can they begin to do this?A. OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “Why did God rest on Day 7?"Scripture: Genesis 2:1-3 NIVHebrews 3:7-4:11Exodus 20:8-11Phil 2:12-13Romans 8:28Bottom line: God rested on day 7 to establish for us a rhythm and posture of rest that comes by grace through faith in Christ alone.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTIONWhy did God rest on day 7?I may not know why but I do know this: He didn't rest because he was tired. God is omnipotent or all powerful. He never needs to sleep or rest. He has infinite energy and power. He has no needs including rest.Graham's newsletterWhen I was very young, I thought I was adopted. I was very insecure at that age and jealous of my younger brother's attention from parents and strangers. He had red hair with a freckles and was "so cute" (unlike the skinny kid with glasses and buck teeth). I was convinced I looked nothing like my parents (which was true at the time).But, I was definitely treated like a son. I was treated as a member of the family like everyone else. I had privileges and responsibilities. I got to eat and sleep in doors while doing my part with the chores.Ultimately, I got over my adoption fears because, even if I had been adopted, I was convinced that I was part of the family. You didn't have to convince me because I was dearly loved, protected and provided for. I was disciplined and educated. I was lavished with gifts and encouragement. I was blessed simply because I was a son in the family.Said another way, when I realized I was a son in the family, I never tried to earn that position or role. I was a son. I learned (eventually) to rest in who I was. A son of Roe and Ruth. Brother to Kent. A Gabriel through and through. In a word, I learned to REST in my identity.Just typing that out fills my eyes with tears of gratitude to God. Rest.Let's look at Genesis and ask ourselves 2 questions as we do:God, what are you saying to me today?God, what do you want me to do about what you're saying to me today?CONTEXTRemember our analogy comparing Genesis 1 and 2? Place-mat map Vs. Rand-McNalley AtlasSERMON I. Primeval history (1-11)--God and the worldA. God finished creating (forming and filling) the heavens and the earth. It was very good.B. God rested or ceased/stopped his creative work on day 7Not because he was tiredBecause he was finishedVery good--no evil, suffering, or deathComplete not lacking anythingTo give us an example of how to restThrough a rhythmThrough a postureC. God established the sabbath rest as law for the new nation of Israel. This established rest as a rhythm to be observed.D. God points to the ultimate sabbath rest by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.Hebrews 3:7-4:11 we see the connection to salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. This established rest as a posture. From Willmington:"3:7-19 "Don't let this happen to you." Though God led Israel out of Egypt, their constant rebellion caused him to swear that they "will never enter my place of rest," meaning that the generation that began the journey would not see Canaan (see exposition on Num. 14:10-38 and on Josh. 1:12-18).We should be careful, and remind each other daily, not to harden our hearts and miss God's eternal Sabbath rest (see exposition on 4:1-11).4:1-11 Enter his rest today! God's offer of rest began far before the days of Moses (4:4), and the offer is still good today (4:1, 9-11; see Matt. 11:28). We need only accept it through faith (4:2-3, 9-10). Even the rest achieved by those who entered Canaan under Joshua was only temporary, as seen by the psalmist's reference, years later, to God's rest as something yet to come (see 3:15; 4:3, 8; Ps. 95:6-11). The word rest occurs repeatedly throughout 3:11-4:11:Lack of faith kept Israel from God's rest (3:11, 18; 4:11).Lack of faith will keep Christians from God's rest (4:1).Faith will give us God's rest, which involves our "finding rest" from our "labors," by which we may have tried to earn salvation (4:9-10).II. Patriarchal history (12-50)--God and Abraham's familyCONCLUSIONGraham's newsletter (missionaries to East Asia we've been supporting for many years)"Prayer & Update for our family:In our last newsletter, I mentioned being in the clinical training portion of my counseling degree program. I have been working as a student/intern counselor in a clinical practice since January and will continue through August.In all sincerity, these past five months have probably been the busiest our family ever has been, with hardly any margin whatsoever.We knew this season was going to be a tough one. The clinical experience l am gaining has been incredible and invaluable. But it feels like every minute of every day is spoken for and allocated for a specific purpose. I'm behind in almost every area of life.Living this way has made me treasure the Sabbath each week. As best we can, we do a little straightening late Saturday afternoon to help give the house a sabbath rest. I give my computer a sabbath rest by shutting it down (all the way down) around dusk on Saturday. When I pray for the kids that evening we express thankfulness that we can rest and don't have to work or go to school on Sunday. We ourselves try to cease from the striving, performing, accomplishing (and hurrying) that characterize the other six days of the week.Some weeks have not been pretty, but we're making it one step forward at a time... and now that June is here, this harried season will come to a close in just a few more months. It doesn't mean we're out of the woods quite yet, but hopefully we'll be through the hardest part of the journey. All this hard work means l've been able to stay on track to graduate May 2025, less than a year away!"Bottom line: God rested on day 7 to establish for us rest as a rhythm and a posture. These both come when we trust and follow the Lord in all of life.Applications:Rest as a rhythm.Rest as a posture.Invitation““Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”” -Jesus in Matthew‬ ‭11‬:‭28‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬Bottom line: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESFrom Wilmington's Bible Handbook:"What does 1:1 Say to those who interpret reality apart from a personal, infinite God?• To the atheist it says that Creation was the work of God.• To the polytheist it says there is only one God.• To the pantheist it says that God is apart from and independent of his creation.• To the evolutionist it says that the universe was created and did not evolve.• To the materialist it says that matter is not eternal but was itself created.• To the existentialist it says creation has a purpose." P. 4It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3."There's only one way fallen humanity can be saved--the Genesis way--by faith. There has never been another way." -HughesWho wrote Genesis? According the Old and New Testaments, Moses c. 15th century BC. Jesus confirms this, with the exception of Genesis. The religious leaders of Jesus' day credited Moses with writing it (Luke 20:28) and early Jewish writers viewed Moses as the author of all 5 books. During his years in the Egyptian royal family, Moses could have become a skilled writer and historian as the Egyptians were quite advanced and he'd have had access to top tutors. He was, after all, a prince of Egypt.Moses would have been an eye-witness and contemporary to all that happened and was recorded in Exodus-Deuteronomy. However, not so for Genesis. So how did he write this?God gave it all to him. Passed down orally.Passed down in writing. Any of these would make Moses an editor or compiler of ancient history from Adam to his day around after he led Israel out of Egypt in and through the wilderness enroute to the Promise Land.Abraham c. 2,000 BCEnd of Genesis c. 1,800 BCExodus c. 1,500 BC (1.440s) after 400 years in EgyptTruths to noteGod existed and exists eternallyGod exists in plural unity as the Holy TrinityGod was in the beginningGod was before anything existed in our universe and the universe itselfGod created everything that exists in the universe and the universe itselfGod creates something from nothing Latin ex nihiloAn atheist scientist came to God and said, “We've figured out how to make a man without you.” God said, “OK, let me see you do it.” So the atheist bent down to the ground and scooped up a handful. But God stopped him and said, “Oh, no you don't. Get your own dirt!”God creates with words. He spoke creation into existence. His words still have power.God creates purposefully for his glory and our good.God starts with light to display his creation and provide an essential ingredient for life.God only creates things that are good. Together it was all very good and will be again.God is a God of order and moves from chaos to order. Elohim (gods) intensifies God's divine majesty, when used as a noun. When used as a verb, it's singular for there is only one true God.God created all things. "Heavens and earth"God created an "open" universe, not a "closed" one where he never interactsNotes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's familyDisorder --> OrderAdam = humanHumanity created to:Reflect God's character (image)Represent God's rule (reign)Harness creation's potential and create beauty and order"Blessing" is a key word hereChoice: Tree of knowledge of good and evilTrust God's definition of good and evil, orSeize autonomy and define good and evil for themselves?Serpent (against God) tells a different story. He lies when he tells them that if they eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil that they will be like God. Because they already are like God (made in his image).Heavens and earth aka skies and landFormless and empty aka wild and wasteDeep abyss = dark, chaotic oceanDays 1-3 God splits apart and forms this disordered waste into 3 ordered realms:Realm: Time. God splits darkness and light on Day 1.Realm: Sky & Seas. God splits the waters into water canopy or clouds (or both) and sea on Day 2.Realm: Land. God brings land out of water and includes vegetation on it on Day 3.Days 4-6 God Day 4 brings lights--sun, moon and stars to reflect his light in space.Day 5 brings creations to fill the sky and seaDay 6 brings land animals and humanity to fill the land. First poem in the Bible (1:27) celebrates God's creation where he completed the skies, land and inhabitants. God completes and rests and dwells in this sacred space he treats as a temple. The world or at least the garden of Eden is his temple.Notes from BethencourtOutline for Genesis 1-2:3Main idea: "God establishes his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. He designs creation to reflect his glory and goodness as humanity takes leadership over it."Some of his introductory thoughts...Main character of Genesis and the Bible is God himself. It reveals his goodness and his glorious purpose and person.The goodness of God includes both the physical and the spiritual.Genesis demonstrates God's authority over creation. Genesis demonstrates God's creativity in creation too.Age of the earth approaches can be diverse without Christians breaking fellowship over. That said, 3 non-negotiables are central to Christian doctrine of creation:1- "Sound doctrine must recognize the VIRGIN BIRTH of creation, acknowledging that God creates ex nihilism. Before he speaks the universe into being, there is nothing in existence other than God."2- "Such a doctrine must affirm the VIRTUOUS BIRTH of creation, that is, the goodness of all creation before the fall. Genesis 1 repeatedly declares that what God makes is 'good.'"3- "Sound doctrine must affirm the VERIFIED 'BIRTH' of a historical, literal Adam. As Jesus affirms in the Gospels, there is one man, created by God, from whom the entire human race descends (see Acts 17:26 where Paul makes this statement to the Athenians)."Moses is the writer and editor while God is the author.Moses gives us a summary overview of how it all came to being. "Most 'creation' narratives from the ancient Near East assumed the universe itself had always existed." In fact, until relatively recently, our own scientists believed this until they discovered the "Big Bang" based on infrared light readings and such.Outline for Genesis 1-2:3 (Bethancourt)Main idea: "God establishes his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. He designs creation to reflect his glory and goodness as humanity takes leadership over it."IV. God FINISHES the Created Kingdom (2:1-3)A. God finishes with his own rest.B. The climax of the creation story is rest.C. Creation is completed and lacks nothing. God accomplishes what he sets out to do.D. RestGod celebrates his completion of creation by resting in it, blessing it, and declaring it holy. It is his temple.After the Fall, Jesus rebuilds the temple through his death, burial and resurrection ultimately restoring all things in the new heavens and the new earth.Genesis 2 beings by declaring creation completed. In other words, God looks at his creation and says, "It is finished." Jesus echoes these words on the cross just before he dies.E. The Sabbath (though the word doesn't appear in Genesis 1 or 2) establishes a patternThe sabbath (meaning cease or stop) is CREATED as God rests on the 7th dayCORRUPTED by sin in our human rebellionCOMMANDED for Israel as part of the law to observe weeklyCONFIRMED in Jesus' life as he honors it as the Lord of the sabbathCOMPLETED in Jesus' resurrection as he, per Heb 4, becomes our sabbath restCONVERTED in the early church as Christians move it to Sunday as a nod to the resurrection and to distinguish themselves from JudaismCULMINATED in the new creation as we experience eternal sabbath rest in Jesus ChristSee D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Let's ask some summary sermon questions:Q. What do I want them to know?A. Q. Why do I want them to know it?A. Q. What do I want them to do about it?A. Q. Why do I want them to do it?A. Q. How can they begin to do this?A. OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: Chaos to CovenantTitle: “How did the universe begin?" Part 2Scripture: Genesis 1:3-31 NIV Bottom line: "God established his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. He designs creation to reflect his glory and goodness as humanity takes leadership over it." -Bethancourt."Genesis 1 is doing way more than telling us how everything was made. Genesis 1 is designed to show us that God's purpose is to share creation with his images o so they can rest and rule it with him forever. And that purpose is what the rest of the Biblical drama is all about." -Tim Macke, The Bible Project INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER OUTLINESDISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDINTRODUCTIONLego TableI was riding through my in-laws neighborhood and I felt a nudge to turn and go out a different way than usual. Now, I have a confession. I am a bit of a dumpster diver. I like to find treasures on the side of the road. And it was a Saturday. The day when people clean out their garage and put things on the side of the road. So I'm driving along looking for treasure and get that nudge to turn and go a different way. I felt a distinct impression that God was nudging me. So I turned, not that I always do. I often ignore those nudges, unfortunately. You never know what's on the other end and it's often not convenient. So I'm driving and I see Lego green in the side of the road. I have four grandkids and we love Legos and I had been talking to Anita about getting a Lego table. I'd decided that they were too big and too expensive. So what do I find on the side of the road? I small, free Lego table. It's used, and has some scrapes, sure. But it's study and complete. I share this to remind us that God is always speaking. Not just when we sit for a sermon or read the Bible. He is always speaking. "The heavens declare the glory of God." (Psalm 19) Are we listening? And, when we hear, are we obeying? This is what we're about at Grace. Hearing from God and doing what he says. We show our love for God when we obey his commands (and respond to his nudges in faith).Let's look at Genesis and ask ourselves 2 questions as we do:God, what are you saying to me today?God, what do you want me to do about what you're saying to me today?CONTEXTLast week we began with God forming the universe from nothing. God is the main character and point of creation. He creates for his glory and our good. He first began forming our universe by inserting his presence and perspective. Today we'll see how he framed creation, filled creation and then next week how he finished creating.Genesis (beginning) is a book of beginnings. It's primeval history (universal world history) of the world (universe) made up of 5 stories with the same structure. (1-11)The FallCainSons of God marrying daughters of manThe FloodTower of BabelThey all follow this 4-fold pattern/cycle:Sin: the sin is describedSpeech: There is a speech by God announcing the penalty for the sinGrace: God brings grace to the situation to ease the misery due to sinPunishment: God punishes the sinPatriarchal history (12-50) or the history of Israel's founding fathers. It continues to reveal the many graces of God based on the gracious promise God made to and through Abraham in Genesis 12:3."There's only one way fallen humanity can be saved--the Genesis way--by faith. There has never been another way." -HughesWho wrote Genesis? According the Old and New Testaments, by and large it was written down by Moses with help from oral and written sources protected and provided by the Spirit of God c. 15th century BC. Jesus confirms this.SERMON I. Primeval history (1-11)--God and the worldII. Patriarchal history (12-50)--God and Abraham's familyOutline & notes for (based largely on Bethancourt)Main idea: "God establishes his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. He designs creation to reflect his glory and goodness as humanity takes leadership over it."Some of his introductory thoughts...Main character of Genesis and the Bible is God himself. It reveals his goodness and his glorious purpose and person.The goodness of God includes both the physical and the spiritual.Genesis demonstrates God's authority over creation. Genesis demonstrates God's creativity in creation too.Age of the earth approaches can be diverse without Christians breaking fellowship over. That said, 3 non-negotiables are central to Christian doctrine of creation:1- "Sound doctrine must recognize the VIRGIN BIRTH of creation, acknowledging that God creates ex nihilio. Before he speaks the universe into being, there is nothing in existence other than God."2- "Such a doctrine must affirm the VIRTUOUS BIRTH of creation, that is, the goodness of all creation before the fall. Genesis 1 repeatedly declares that what God makes is 'good.'" (7X)3- "Sound doctrine must affirm the VERIFIED 'BIRTH' of a historical, literal Adam. As Jesus affirms in the Gospels, there is one man, created by God, from whom the entire human race descends (see Acts 17:26 where Paul makes this statement to the Athenians)."Moses is the writer and editor while God is the author.Moses gives us a summary overview of how it all came to existence. "Most 'creation' narratives from the ancient Near East assumed the universe itself had always existed." In fact, until relatively recently, our own scientists believed this until they discovered the "Big Bang" based on infrared light readings and such. now most acknowledge that the universe is expanding from a point in time when it began (somehow).I. God FORMS the Created Kingdom (1:1-2)Not sage or myth like other Near Eastern versions of creation. It is history. It "reveals that God forms the created kingdom with his purpose and his presence.""In the beginning" often causes us to wonder how long ago. But it is there to remind us that God was actually there and active 'in the beginning.'"How should we think about Genesis and the age of the earth? Several points should be emphasized consenting the age of the earth:"First, God is the Creator, and the creation exists solely because of the creative work God began 'in the beginning.'""Second, the Bible offers no precise timelines concerning the age of the earth...Genesis clearly affirms that everything that exists only does so because of God's creative act.""Third, any interpretation of Genesis that rejects God's role as the Creator, or Adam and Eve as literal, historical human beings, is in conflict with the Bible's teaching.""Finally, ...Christians may reach different conclusions about the earth's age while still enjoying fellowship."Genesis 1:2 speaks of the "Spirit of God" hovering over the waters. The Spirit brings order out of chaos (here and throughout the Bible)."When Gabriel tells Mary that the Spirit of the Lord will overshadow her" this is another time when he brings order into our universe. He launches a "new creation" through Jesus at that time. When Jesus is baptized, the Spirit descends on him like a dove while in the waters. The Spirit raises Jesus from the dead, bringing him back to life."After God forms the created kingdom, he frames it with light, with limits, and with land." P. 9II. God FRAMES the Created Kingdom (1:3-13)A. The first day of--"God frames the kingdom with light."God's words bring something from nothing. We see this throughout the 6 days of creation.God creates light on day 1 separating it from darkness and giving the names day and night. Interestingly, he hasn't created sun, moon and stars yet so this seems premature. But God is making a point here. He's saying that he's the source of light and doesn't even need the stars to light our universe. This powerfully spoke to the other nations who worshipped the sun, moon, and stars in Moses' day (and ours) showing that God is sovereign over all light.This theme of the kingdoms of light and darkness carries over throughout scripture.B. The second day of creation--"God frames the kingdom with limits."Theme of water is introduced. We take water for granted with our endless supply of clean water. They saw water asA blessing--drinkable, washing, watering fieldsA danger--floods that drown people, famine caused by flooded fields, sea monsters, storms at sea, dying of thirstGod separates waters from the sky.New creation, new heaven, new earth--river of endless, life-giving water (Rev 22:1)C. The third day of creation--"God frames the kingdom with land."God divides the land from the waters he just divided from the sky. This created earth/land, seas and vegetation. 2 sources of fear in ancient culture: sea and land:"Anxiety about the sea was related to protection.""Anxiety about the land was related to provision."God's role in creating the seas reshapes our understanding of baptism too:New believers are baptized when they are plunged into the waters representing judgment (watery grave; wages of sin is death)And brought through and out of that watery grave raised to walk a new life with him--as a symbol of God's victory of sin and death.Vegetation holds a privileged place throughout the scripturesThe garden of Eden was full of treesNoah's arkMoses' staffArk of the CovenantThe coming MessiahA rootA branchA stumpA shootA vineA crossIII. God FILLS the Created Kingdom (1:14-31) A. The fourth day of creation--God fills the kingdom with life.God creates vegetation on the third day before creating the sun to once again show that he alone is the giver and sustainer of life. This would speak to the nations who had fertility cults/idols/gods."The creation story was intended to shatter the allure of the false gods of Israel, and it should do the same for us today." B. The fifth day of creationGod doesn't actually need 6 days to create the universe. God is using a process to show the glory of his creation. Creation is more than a place for animals and humanity to live. It's his temple! Where God lives with his creation where Eden was the holy of holies. God creates the universe and then fills it with his presence. C. The sixth day of --capstone of creationGod declares all of his creation good (1:25). And that's before he creates humanity. Creation with humanity is "very good."Humanity becomes his capstone as the creates them in the image of God. Trinitarian overtones:We see the unity or oneness of God "he" "his"We see the unity and community of God "us" "our"IDENTITY: "Being sinners is a secondary truth. Being created in the image of God is a primary truth." -Deb Hirsch; Find the imago dei and let God deal with the sin.ILLUSTRATION: When we look at an ultrasound, we're always looking to see which parent the child looks like. It's innate. And as humanity, we also look like our Creator. Each of us, in a sense, looks like our Heavenly Father. In contrast to the animals, we're designed to reflect who God is and what he's like.Paul calls Jesus the "image of the invisible God." (Colossians 1:15-17)"Jesus is both the architect and the blueprint for what it means to be made in the image of God."Not only are we to image our creator, we're to rule, subdue, be fruitful and multiply, and to lead over all creation on God's behalf.Adam and Eve reject this in disobeying God's command.IV. God FINISHES the Created Kingdom (2:1-3)A. God finishes with his own rest.B. The climax of the creation story is rest.C. Creation is completed and lacks nothing. God accomplishes what he sets out to do. And yet day 7 continues.D. RestGod celebrates his completion of creation by resting in it, blessing it, and declaring it holy. It is his temple.After the Fall, Jesus rebuilds the temple through his death, burial and resurrection ultimately restoring all things in the new heavens and the new earth.Genesis 2 beings by declaring creation completed. In other words, God looks at his creation and says, "It is finished." CONCLUSIONBottom line: God established his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. God designed creation to reflect his glory and goodness while humanity takes on leadership over creation on his behalf.Remember the Lego table. Are you listening to God speak? What is he saying to you? Do you love God? Do you realize that we express and prove our love and trust for him when we obey? And we show our distrust of him when we delay obedience, obey partially or disobey? Invitation““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬Bottom line: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.PrayNOTESSabbath/RestHebrews 3:15-4:11 Graham's newsletter about rest.Truths to noteGod existed and exists eternallyGod exists in plural unity as the Holy TrinityGod was in the beginningGod was before anything existed in our universe and the universe itselfGod created everything that exists in the universe and the universe itselfGod creates something from nothing Latin ex nihiloAn atheist scientist came to God and said, “We've figured out how to make a man without you.” God said, “OK, let me see you do it.” So the atheist bent down to the ground and scooped up a handful. But God stopped him and said, “Oh, no you don't. Get your own dirt!”God creates with words. He spoke creation into existence. His words still have power.God creates purposefully for his glory and our good.God starts with light to display his creation and provide an essential ingredient for life.God only creates things that are good. Together it was all very good and will be again.God is a God of order and moves from chaos to order. Elohim (gods) intensifies God's divine majesty, when used as a noun. When used as a verb, it's singular for there is only one true God.God created all things. "Heavens and earth"God created an "open" universe, not a "closed" one where he never interactsNotes from Bible Project Videos1-11 God and the world12:3 Hinge verse12-50 God and Abraham's familyDisorder --> OrderAdam = humanHumanity created to:Reflect God's character (image)Represent God's rule (reign)Harness creation's potential and create beauty and order"Blessing" is a key word hereHeavens and earth aka skies and landFormless and empty aka wild and wasteDeep abyss = dark, chaotic oceanDays 1-3 God splits apart and forms this disordered waste into 3 ordered realms:Realm: Time. God splits darkness and light on Day 1.Realm: Sky & Seas. God splits the waters into water canopy or clouds (or both) and sea on Day 2.Realm: Land. God brings land out of water and includes vegetation on it on Day 3.Days 4-6 God Day 4 brings lights--sun, moon and stars to reflect his light in space.Day 5 brings creations to fill the sky and seaDay 6 brings land animals and humanity to fill the land. First poem in the Bible (1:27) celebrates God's creation where he completed the skies, land and inhabitants. God completes and rests and dwells in this sacred space he treats as a temple. The world or at least the garden of Eden is his temple.Notes from BethencourtOutline for Genesis 1-2:3Main idea: "God establishes his kingdom by speaking the universe into existence. He designs creation to reflect his glory and goodness as humanity takes leadership over it."Some of his introductory thoughts...Main character of Genesis and the Bible is God himself. It reveals his goodness and his glorious purpose and person.The goodness of God includes both the physical and the spiritual.Genesis demonstrates God's authority over creation. Genesis demonstrates God's creativity in creation too.Age of the earth approaches can be diverse without Christians breaking fellowship over. That said, 3 non-negotiables are central to Christian doctrine of creation:1- "Sound doctrine must recognize the VIRGIN BIRTH of creation, acknowledging that God creates ex nihilism. Before he speaks the universe into being, there is nothing in existence other than God."2- "Such a doctrine must affirm the VIRTUOUS BIRTH of creation, that is, the goodness of all creation before the fall. Genesis 1 repeatedly declares that what God makes is 'good.'"3- "Sound doctrine must affirm the VERIFIED 'BIRTH' of a historical, literal Adam. As Jesus affirms in the Gospels, there is one man, created by God, from whom the entire human race descends (see Acts 17:26 where Paul makes this statement to the Athenians)."Moses is the writer and editor while God is the author.Moses gives us a summary overview of how it all came to being. "Most 'creation' narratives from the ancient Near East assumed the universe itself had always existed." In fact, until relatively recently, our own scientists believed this until they discovered the "Big Bang" based on infrared light readings and such.See D. J. A. Clines, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, No. 38 (1976), pp. 487, 488. Clines explains that Gerhard Von Rad initially observed a pattern of sin, mitigation, and punishment. Then Claus Westermann discerned another element, that of divine speech. Though he did not include it in the pattern, Clines does. Thus the following chart:I. II. III. IV. SINSPEECHGRACEPUNISHMENTFALL3:63:14-193:213:22-24CAIN4:84:10-124:154:16SONS OF GOD6:26:36:8, 18ff7:6-24FLOOD6:5, 11f6:7, 13-216:8, 18ff11:8BABEL11:411:6f10:1-3211:8Preach the Word, Genesis, Kent Hughes, chapter 1, note 3, p. 625QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWho is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I get to do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?OUTLINESSee aboveDISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

On July 22, 2024 a wire transfer of $3.3 billion in relief funds from the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) to the B&C Industry International Pension Fund was completed. The fight for the Butch Lewis Act - which began in 2017 and passed as a pension provision in the 2021 American Rescue Plan - was realized. President Shelton sent a memo to U.S. BCTGM Local Unions that day announcing: "Our money is in the bank. The promise of pension reform has been realized for more than 100,000 BCTGM retirees." We hear from BCTGM Leaders who worked for many years to save our pensions: Anthony Shelton, BCTGM International President Harry Kaiser, Retired Asst. to the President/Political Director Elizabeth Briere, Pension Fund Manager, B&C Trust Funds with historical clips from Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and former BCTGM International Presidents David B. Durkee and Frank Hurt We dedicate this episode to our late president David B. Durkee, who fought for his entire time in office to fix the pension crisis. His legacy now underscores the security of generations of BCTGM Retirees, who will live the sunset years of their lives in dignity thanks to his passion and diligence. 

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Pastor Marcus continues our Lenten sermon series Redux with a message Retell. We all see and feel the deep cynicism of our world. The great gift of retelling the same story of God is that it invites into a different way of being shaped not by cynicism, but by joy and thanksgiving.

Show notes: https://thisdayinai.com/bookmarks/32-ep52Groq Mixtral: https://simtheory.ai/agent/567-groq-mixtral-editionGroq Llama: https://simtheory.ai/agent/566-groq-the-speed-oriented-chat-companionSimTheory: https://simtheory.ai====This week we discuss Groq's LPU Chips and the implications of low cost low latency LLMs on custom hardware. We revisit our prank calling to see if Groq's low latency gives an advantage and see if we can improve Air Canada's chatbot. We discuss the launch of Google's Open Source Gamma 7B release and Magic's $148M fundraise for an AI co-worker who can reason. We also cover ChatGPT losing it's mind during the week.If you like the show, please consider subscribing. Thanks for listening.====Chapters:00:00 - Groq, Groq API and Retell with Groq32:48 - Google Gemma 7B Open Source Model39:04 - The 'Magic' Breakthrough on Reasoning and Context50:19 - Sounds for OpenAI Sora Thanks to ElevenLabs Sound FX51:59 - ChatGPT Goes Haywire

Retell a painful story to highlight your best traitsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subscribe to ThisDayInAI: https://thisdayinai.comTry AI Agents on SimTheory: https://simtheory.aiShow notes: https://thisdayinai.com/bookmarks/6-ep50Tell us your thoughts on Gemini here: https://thisdayinai.com/post/62-your-thoughts-gemini-advanced/Thanks to everyone for all your support and kind reviews to reach 50 episodes! Please consider leaving us a review wherever you get your podcasts.=====This week we cover the launch of Google Gemini Advanced, Gemini Ultra 1.0 and Bard being Renamed to Gemini. We compare GPT-4, Gemini Ultra 1.0 and Qwen 1.5 72B by sports betting $1000 on horse racing.We celebrate 50 episodes and share our excited for Qwen 1.5 72B's performance at coding and quick refusals. We cover new releases including SyncLabs and Retell AI and Apple's Open Source Guiding Instruction-based Image Editing via Multimodal Large Language Models.Finally, we discuss GOODY-2 and it's high refusal rate.=====CHAPTERS:00:00 - Betting $1,000 To Compare Gemini Ultra 1.0 to GPT-4 to Qwen 1.507:33 - Google Gemini Advanced, Ultra: Details of Announcement and First Impressions25:48 - OpenAI is Developing Agents to Control Your Devices27:40 - Celebrating 50 Episodes of This Day in AI30:34 - Qwen 1.5 72B: We're Impressed!42:47 - SyncLabs: Tested & Impressions47:58 - Retell AI: Tested & Impressions54:18 - Apple's Open Source Guiding Instruction-based Image Editing via Multimodal Large Language Models58:10 - GOODY-2: The World's Most Responsible AI Model

In this sermon, Mark kicks off the second chapter in this series on peacemaking. In this message, Mark shares about the Redemptive Art of Peacemaking. www.thevineaustin.org REFLECTION QUESTIONS: 1. How was your experience with the journal this week? Has anything stayed with you? 2. What characteristics mark a good listener? 3. What scenes from the Gospels come to mind when you think of Jesus' ministry of listening? Retell these Gospel stories together. 4. Recall the 4 practices of listening that Mark shared in the sermon. Which are natural for you? Which are the most difficult? 5. What else has stayed with you from the message- either as a comfort, question, or confusion?

Today on Mushroom Hour we join in communion with the overflowing font of mythos, play and animated everything Sophie Strand. Sophie is a poet and writer with a focus on the history of religion and the intersection of spirituality, storytelling and ecology. Her poems and essays have appeared in numerous projects and publications, including the Dark Mountain Project, poetry.org and the magazines Unearthed, Braided Way, Art PAPERS and Entropy. Their newest book “The Flowering Wand – Rewilding the Sacred Masculine” is a potent retelling of classical European myths and masculine characters like Dionysus, Merlin, Jesus that encourages men to put down the iron sword and pick up a myceliated, vegetal thyrsus.    TOPICS COVERED:   Staying Alive by Exploring Ecology   Mediterranean Religions & Arthurian Myths    Myths as Vessels of Environmental Information   Replanting Myths - Reroot, Rewild, Retell    Polyphonic Iconography   Partnership Cultures and Dominator Cultures   Medusa & Mothers Turned into Monsters    Symbiosis & Synchronism    The Rebellion of Dionysus   Gender as a Morphic Field & a Mycelial Web    The King Becomes the Kingdom   Expanding Masculinity   Jesus the Magical, Nature-Loving Rabbi   Returning to the Compost Heap    EPISODE RESOURCES:    "The Flowering Wand": https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Flowering-Wand/Sophie-Strand/9781644115961   "The Madonna Secret": https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Madonna-Secret/Sophie-Strand/9781591434672   Sophie Strand Substack: https://sophiestrand.substack.com/   Sophie Strand IG: https://www.instagram.com/cosmogyny/   "Bitch": https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/lucy-cooke/bitch/9781541674905/?lens=basic-books   Microanimism: https://www.microanimism.com/   Chlorophyllum molybdites: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorophyllum_molybdites   "Enlivenment": https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262536660/   "An Immense World": https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/616914/an-immense-world-by-ed-yong/