Podcasts about see ephesians

We can never be good enough to earn our salvation, but Jesus died to give it to us. #theloriclineshow Interested in learning more about becoming a devoted follower of Christ? Go to follow.lifeword.org! ~~~ Are you a dog person or a cat person? We are dog people, but I will say I love ALL animals.  We ADORE our pets, don't we? In 2020, the pet industry hit a record sales of 103 Billion dollars. We often care for and love on our pets way more than we do people! It's true.  We have two dogs, Roxy and Ruby. We love them dearly. They're good dogs, until they're not. They're potty trained to go outside. They can sit, lay down and play fetch. But… they are animals. Animals often do bad things. Roxy likes to eat lizards, baby rabbits and turtles. She will also play with frogs and chipmunks until they die. She loves to go on adventures in the woods beyond our yard if her invisible fence collar is not working. No matter how mean you sound trying to get her to come back, she will stop, look at you, turn back around and keep on walking. So naughty. Ruby loves to eat ANYTHING she can get her little teeth on. She has chewed up shoes, books, pens, shirts, a brand new backpack and so much more. Once she chewed up the leather corners of my Bible, but I guess I really couldn't be mad because she was feeding on the word, right? I had to do that.  Here's my point, dogs are good, until they're not. They can also be really bad. Do we sometimes describe people the same way? He's a good person. She's a good person. They do good things. They give, serve, love and are kind. Those ARE good things, but what about all the times he or she may NOT be a good person or may NOT do good things? We don't like to focus on that do we?  The reason we don't is because we don't want to come face to face with the true condition of our human heart, which IS, we are DEAD in our SIN, apart from Christ. See Ephesians ch 2. What God created in the beginning was good, but then a choice was made.  Genesis 2:17 You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die. God's words to Adam and Eve in the garden were not unclear. When you eat from it, you WILL certainly die. Everything was good, until it wasn't.  Dr David Jeremiah describes it this way, “Satan was the original violator of the righteousness of God, but sin entered the world through Adam and death entered the world through sin.” While we are responsible for our own choices and sin, we are born into the family of a fallen human race. Adam's sin brought death to the world and there is not enough good any man or woman can do to wipe that away.  Romans 3:23 says “ALL” have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.  Here's the good news,  2 Corinthians 5:21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. It may be difficult for you to see yourself as a sinner and you may do a lot of good things, but the Bible makes it so clear, you could never be good enough to be made right with a holy God apart from the perfect sacrifice of Jesus on a cross. Without Him, you are dead IN your sin.  That's the truth.  Take an inventory as you think about how good you really are. Go to Exodus 20 and brush up on the ten commandments. Next, go to the words of Jesus who then took those laws much deeper in Matthew chapter five. Scroll on down to the parts about murder, lust and envy in your heart and then the part about loving our enemies.  The truth is we are all sinners, in need of a savior. Thank God, where sin abounded, grace abounded much more. I'm SO thankful for amazing grace that is greater than all my sin. I'm Lori Cline.

The Ultimate Party Invite: Will You Accept? Imagine being invited to the most epic celebration of all time—and missing it because you were too busy. That's exactly what Jesus talks about in the Parable of the Wedding Banquet. In this Easter message, Scott walks us through the story and reveals the heart of a God who's not just holy, but joyfully inviting us to the party of a lifetime. Join us as we unpack: Why Easter is the ultimate celebration (bigger than Christmas!). God's extravagant and open invitation to His Kingdom party. The surprising reasons some people refuse the invite (Hint: It involves pride!). What are the "wedding clothes" God provides, and why are they essential? (See Ephesians 4:22-24). How humility unlocks God's amazing grace (James 4:6) while pride leads to being left out. How YOU can accept your personal invitation today and join the eternal celebration! If you've ever felt awkward, unwelcome, or unsure about faith, this Easter message is especially for you. Discover the joy, forgiveness, and transformation God offers freely to everyone – the "good" and the "bad." It's time to shed the old and step into the new life God has prepared! Scripture List: Matthew 22:1-14 Ephesians 4:22-24 James 4:6

Ephesians 1: Your Identity In Christ September 15, 2024 Session 5 Ephesians 1:1-10 Review: In Christ I am…. Blessed with every spiritual blessing Chosen; holy and blameless; loved and predestined to adoption; accepted in Christ; redeemed; forgiven Ephesians 1:10: God has made Jesus Christ the ultimate, consummate expression of Himself! (See Hebrews 1:1-3) Ephesians 1:11: Jesus has left us an inheritance (See Ephesians 1:1-10; John 16:15) All things that the Father has …. Christ's ultimate work for the Believer Ephesians 1:13, 14 The order: Hear the truth; the Gospel of Salvation; believe it (see also Ephesians 2:8, 9); the Spirit's seal, quarantee! The Prayer The revelation: The Hope The deposit of His Inheritance (John 16:15; Ephesians 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3) His power and authority His Body: His Plan; If His Church Will Act as He Desires, NOTHING and NO ONE can Defeat it! (See Matthew 16:19)

In a world in which every detail has to be nailed down before we move forward, where every nickel has to be accounted for before we strike out, where every eventuality has to be covered, the notion that God is in charge, that God will provide is seen as naïve—if not ultimately unwise. But maybe there's a wisdom that Christians are called to practice that trusts God's love enough to give thanks—even when giving thanks looks like the last thing any wise person ought to do. Maybe living as wise in the unfolding reign of God involves a set of practices the rest of the world deems gullible and unrealistic but which signal our hope. Subscribe to us on iTunes! Sermon text: web | doc

12 Denials of Christ We Never Saw Coming Today Michael is looking at one of the most famous denials in history.  Jesus was carried to face the Sanhedrin, with Caiaphas leading the charge of trying to find something they could use to put Jesus to death. The high priest asked if Jesus declared himself the Messiah?  To which Jesus answered, “I am.  And you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of Heaven”.  This was seen at this mock trial as proof positive that Jesus was making a clear claim to be God and they had the admission they needed to put Him to death. Meanwhile, Peter is watching all this and his heart is breaking, though he is too afraid to do anything about it.  The servant girl, saw his face and asked him, “Don't I recognize you, I've seen you with Jesus of Nazareth” to which Peter denied, very loudly, that she did not know him.  A rooster crowed in the distance. The servant girl stated this to the crowd and he denied it again.  Then finally a man saw Peter at the fire and recognized him, and others recognized Peter's accent, as being from Galilee, and Peter denied Jesus yet again.  And a rooster crowed a second time.  This time Peter remembers Jesus' prediction that when a rooster crowed twice, he will have denied Jesus three times, which, of course, he had.  We are in the same situation today; we deny Jesus through our actions but your lives say otherwise.  The take home for today is, “Let your life declare I know Jesus”.  Sometimes our lips say it, but our life may not match it.   The Twelve Denials of Christ We Never Saw Coming (or how we currently don't live what we say we do, as Christians). Compromising your integrity. Neglecting to help. Run towards the messes. Taking part in gossip or slander. See Ephesians 4 on this one! Placing comfort over people. Withholding forgiveness. Neglecting to share your faith. Conforming to worldly values. Ignoring injustice. Living hypocritcally. Neglecting personal spiritual growth. Not taking a stand, we have to be salt and light. Failing to love like Christ.  (CSB Bible Notes) 14:53-65 No single Gospel comprehensively records Jesus's trials, and each emphasizes different perspectives and events. It is clear, however, that both Roman political authorities and Jewish religious leaders were involved in handing down Jesus's death sentence. Today's verses can be found in Mark 14: 53 - 72. Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.   

When Brother Singh uses the term 'according to my gospel,' it may stir some discomfort. However, it's worth noting that even the Apostle Paul's use of this term offended some. He wrote, 'Now to {God} that is of power to establish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began..."(Romans 16:25) Let us be clear: God establishes us through the power of preaching by His called and anointed ministry (See Ephesians 4:11). The Holy Ghost inspires his ministers as they labor on their knees before the Almighty.

Stepping into the world of public speaking can be daunting. Whether you're a newbie feeling the jitters or a seasoned pro looking to fine-tune your skills, we've got thirty simple tips you can do today to immediately level up your public speaking game. From taming those butterflies in your stomach to perfecting your delivery style, these strategies are your secret to becoming a confident and charismatic speaker. Let's get ready to unleash your inner orator! 1. Pray before speaking. I pray something like this, “Lord, help me to speak the truth in love with wisdom such that knowledge is imparted that sticks to the soul spreads through the world for your glory.” See Ephesians 4:15; Titus 2:7-8. 2. Say something worth saying. Time is short, Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16. 3. Study adequately. It is better to over-study (if there is such a thing) than understudy, especially in preaching. See James 3:1-2. 4. Never rely on your charisma. Rely on God and the knowledge you have to offer people. 5. Learn how to speak grammatically and with the best version of your voice you can offer. You may want to talk with a speech coach. 6. Have water with you on the podium, but don't take large gulps, but small sips. The water should be warm, not cold. Cold water constricts your throat and hurts your voice. Want to know the rest? Listen to today's episode of Truth Tribe to unlock these great tips!  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

On April 21, join us for Sunday worship at 9:30 or 11:00. Scott's message is called, Discipleship as a Way of Life, Part Two from John 11:39-44, 12:1-2, 9-11. DISCIPLESHIP AS A WAY OF LIFE (Part Two) John 11:39-44 John 12:1-2, 9-11 John 11:14, 17, 39 LAZARUS WAS DEAD The Rhythm of Celebrate (11, 16) The Rhythm of Listen (21, 32) The Rhythm of ReCreate (33, 36) See Ephesians 2:1-5 - we are all dead until we are brought to live in Christ. John 11:43-44 LAZARUS WAS DISABLED The Rhythm of Story The Rhythm of Listen The Rhythm of Celebrate The Rhythm of Bless See Ephesians 4:24 - perhaps you're alive in Jesus but totally bound by sinful activity, You need to be set free, and Jesus can use other people to unbind you and let you go. John 12:1-2 LAZARUS WAS DINING The Rhythm of Eat The Rhythm of Bless The Rhythm of Celebrate The Rhythm of Listen Are you feeding on God's Word on a regular basis? John 12:9-11 LAZARUS WAS DANGEROUS The Rhythm of Story The Rhythm of Listen The Rhythm of Bless The Rhythm of ReCreate The enemies of God wanted to get rid of Lazarus as much as Jesus since many people were leaving the dead religion of the Temple and the Pharisees to find new life in Jesus. WHERE ARE YOU IN THIS STORY?

Sermon: Romans 15:1-7, Fight for Unity Main Point: Fight for the unity of the church by prioritizing pleasing God over pleasing self.  I. Fight for unity by not prioritizing pleasing self – 15:1-3  See Ephesians 4:1-3 II. Fight for unity by prioritizing pleasing God – 15:4-7.  See Philippians 2:1-11; 1 Peter 2:9 Application 1) Beware […] The post Fight for Unity appeared first on Grace Church Crystal Coast.

Ephesians 4:25-28 Sermon Notes:Put on Truth, Righteous Anger, and Hard-Working Generosity, because:1) God's Son died to make obedience possible | (Eph 2:8-10)2) God's People belong to each other | 253) God's Enemy wants our anger to destroy our Body | 26-274) Other People may need our help | 28Reflections questions:1) Are you saved by your good works? Are you saved for good works? Read Ephesians 4:25-28 and then read 2:8-10. Why does God expect you to be able to meet His high calling?2) What are all of the commands in vv. 25ff supposed to promote within the Church? See Ephesians 4:1-6. 3) What are some obvious ways that lies, anger, and greed tear apart Christ's body? What are some of the less obvious ways that we break the commands regarding truth, anger, and generosity? Think of one supposedly “respectable sin” for each category that you can Put Off in the future. (No sin is supposed to be respectable. Jerry Bridges used that term to describe sins that aren't as widely condemned that we should still repent of.)

Ephesians 2:26-27 Sermon Notes: 1) Put On Holy Anger, and Make Sure It's Holy | 26a 2) Put Off Cancerous Anger Quickly | 26b 3) Beware the Enemy, who Seeks an Opportunity for Destruction in Our Anger | 27 Reflection questions: 1) Does God's word ever endorse hatred or anger? See Eph 4:26; Psalm 4:4; and Ps 119:53. Regarding Ps 119 – Does the Psalmist hate people, or their actions? 2) Does this passage warn against the dangers of anger? Can you name all three qualifications or guardrails for our anger? Which is easier – putting on holy anger for the right reasons, or avoiding the sinful excesses of anger? What are three steps you can take to avoid the three common errors of anger? 3) What kind of “opportunity” for the Devil is God (speaking through Paul) urging the church to avoid? Why should we be eager to avoid an opportunity for Satan, and what should we be eager to maintain as a Church? See Ephesians 4:1-6, 27.

Ephesians 4:1-3 Sermon Notes:1) The Master of our Calling | 12) The Manner of our Calling | 23) The Motivation of our Calling | 3Reflection Questions:1) John Stott says, “The life worthy of the calling of God is a life in the fellowship of the people of God.” How are you striving to (or how could you) increase Christian fellowship in your life right now?2) Why do you think William Hendriksen said that humility (v2) is the “first, second, and third essential of the Christian life?” What can/does lack of humility do to your life, your family's lives, your church's fellowship?3) What's one way that you can be more patient (“longsuffering towards aggravating people” - Stott) with one person or one group of people in your life? Why does God call us to such patience? See Ephesians 4:32.

Consider a few questions about death and life, about your position of authority. Do you meditate upon visions of Christ's exalted place, about your place with him there? It is a now reality that will be transformed further when Christ himself appears in glory. You also will appear in glory. You have authority now. God has a plan and purpose for your life. The old has passed away, the new has come! Turn from flesh and set your mind on things above, not on earthly things! Blessings in His presence! See Ephesians 2 and Colossians 3 to go deeper into the promises prayed today. Visit intothewaters.com for more!

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast   INTRO Today on Run With Horses, I am continuing my discussion from last time on living a life that is worthwhile. We need to count the cost, but it is always worth it to follow Jesus.   My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Run Your Race Well, not just Surviving but Thriving as a Disciple of Jesus! There are a LOT of things you could do with your life, but I don't think anything compares with following Jesus and joining Him on His mission of bringing Hope to the nations. Thanks for including me in your journey!   On the last show I asked two important questions, First, What is your life worth? You are spending your time on something. Is it something worthwhile? Second, What is 1 thing worth giving the next 5 years of your life to accomplish? I want to challenge you to live an Intentional life. If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time. But I'm not sure that Jesus really intended for us to live that way. Look at Luke 14: 25-33   My take is that Jesus is calling us to an intentional life and we need to consider what it will take to live it. John 8:12 I'm pretty sure that is a good thing! Jesus wants us to join Him on His mission, and He wants us to kow that it is a lifetime commitment that will cost us. But it is worth it!   So if you are tracking with me, you are considering what your life is worth, and thinking about what is worth your life. Maybe you are already committed to following Jesus and have a clear picture of the tower you are building and have your sleeves rolled up as you put in the effort to see God's work in your life and through your life accomplished. If so, Awesome! Let me know what God is doing in your life, I would love to rejoice with you and pray for you as you live a life of eternal meaning and purpose! Reach out and encourage those around you to join you and keep on keeping on!   But I know many feel stuck in a run and want to make some steps of faith. The tower they began working on years ago is still just a foundation that has sand blown across it and weeds starting to creep in along the edge. The busyness of life and the distractions of the world make it easy to leave the hard work of building a spiritual tower for another vague time in the future when “things settle down”. Hey, no judgment here, I have been there.   But it's not OK to stay there. God really is doing something in your life and He wants to make you a better you, and give you a bigger purpose than just making it to the end of the week unscathed. God never hides the fact that He has great plans for us. See Ephesians 2:1-10.   As you pray about what God is doing in your life and seriously answer the question about what is worth spending the next five years of your life to accomplish, remember that God already knows and has planned the good works for you. And He has prepared you for those good works! There is no reason to fear or turn away, God Himself has promised to go with you and give you His strength to accomplish His purpose in and through you. Maybe the old Nike slogan, Just Do IT, would be appropriate here. We often hesitate and loose momentum or even sink into the mire of earthly things and get stuck in our spiritual life. And that carries over to all aspects of life. You can't be the best YOU without being tied to God's mission on earth and your part in it. He gave you gifts for a purpose and without using them, you are always out of step with your eternal purpose.   Know that you are created with a purpose and embrace God's call on your life. But, count the cost. The work God has called you to will cost you. And it will be worth it.   As you look toward the future and consider how to invest the life that God has given you, along with all of your gifts, talents, abilities, and resources; consider how you can be intentional along the way. I believe God has given us intellect for a reason, Use it to plan out a path forward that is in line with His mission, uses your gifts, and builds up His church. Evaluate yourself and consider adding new skills to your list. What will help you be a more effective servant along the way? Similar question, Who should you be traveling with? As you build a spiritual tower and are counting the cost, consider how Nehemiah rode around the city walls evaluating and only then did he reach out and invite others into the work God had laid on his heart. He presented a clear plan of action and challenged everyone to do their part for the Glory of God. Who can you challenge to go with you as you intentionally pursue a life in Jesus' footsteps?   OUTRO Thanks for joining me today! Check out runwithhorses.net for show notes and past shows. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net if you have comments or questions. Join our facebook community and tell a friend if you have found this show helpful! Keep Running!

✝️Day 21 - Prayer Challenge Praying for US ~ Bold Witness Joining us live but still need to register?✅Sign up here to join us and get a chance to win some cool swag, too! ✅Already signed up and looking for the prayer guide + journal?  You can find it here! ✅Got the journal but missed signing up for coaching June 24?  Sign up now!⚔ It's time to ARMOR UP! ⚔ COURAGEOUS CHALLENGE DAY 20⚔

Vibrant Prayer Guide - Day 1 Leading up to the Weekend of Discernment:Friday June 2, 7-9:30pm & Saturday June 3, 8:30-Noon   Intro # 1The Basics: Pray|Reflect|Connect  This prayer guide from Vibrant Congregations follows a threefold pattern: Pray: On day one, there is a short meditation with prayer ideas. Along with this are thoughts to carry with you through the day keeping you aware of ways God may be speaking to you. Reflect: Each following day there is an opportunity to write down insights from the prior day followed with the meditation and ways to stay aware of God's presence during the day. Connect: The last discernment is done by the entire group at our gathering. The desire is to hear as a community what the Spirit is saying to our congregation. Intro # 2A Very Important First Step  We often have in mind what we think is best for the congregation. Our perspective on our congregation can keep us from seeing: • other perspectives • other possibilities • a bigger vision • different ways of doing things  The goal in this season of prayer is to be as open as possible to Word and Spirit so we practice something called "holy indifference." We seek to be indifferent to anything but God's heart and will as we hear it in Word and prayer. One way to do this is to write down those things about which you are already sure. Things like: • what's important for our congregation • the direction we need to go • the best way to our future • what needs to happen in a particular program• who needs to do the work Come back to these words you've written each day you pray. Promise God each time anew that you will listen to his voice and put aside your own perspective during this time of prayerful discernment.   Day 1 Text & Meditation: Being a Picture "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Ephesians 3:10–11) Paul's words in Ephesians continue to catch us off guard. He says something so unexpected and stunning that we cannot imagine it to be true. Paul tells the church that when God wants to show the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms what he is doing in the world, they should look at the church. The church is the picture of his work, vision, and direction for the world.  In Ephesians, God's picture shows all things united in Christ (Ephesians 1.9-10). Paul illustrates this picture by the life of God's new people, where two people come together to form a new community. (See Ephesians 2).  God's call to his church is always to display his work to the world in the way they do life together. This work is displayed in unity of purpose, living the "one another" passages of the New Testament, working through differences, creating just systems and structures (see Acts 6), and more.  Imagine being God's sacred family that brings him glory by being a picture to the world of how a community lives the ways of God's shalom.  What is shalom?  Shalom is a rich biblical word woven into the scriptures. In our Bibles, it is often translated as "peace." However, it is so much more than how western people think of peace. Shalom is the Father's restoration of all things through Christ to the glory of God and for the good of the world. Shalom is the way things are supposed to be.  And God's Shalom therefore is the picture of what the church is called more and more to live.   Prayer Ideas. Dear God…- open our ears to hear the Spirit… - let us hear your pleasure in what we do… - let us hear your imagination for our being a picture before the world… - give us a holy imagination… Holy Indifference What is your normal response to the idea of shalom?  How can you suspend that response to build a holy imagination? Daily Reflections (to take with you as you keep your eyes, heart, and spirit open during the day) 1. How did you reflect on being a picture of God's sacred family during the day? 2. Where did you experience being supported by the congregation in your day? 3. Were there moments when God gave you insight into how your congregation could pursue being a picture of living God's way before the world?  

Feelings of hopelessness and weakness, shame and fear can easily begin to overshadow our lives and redefine what is true. Ephesians 1:15-23 is a prayer for the Spirit to bring revelation – to “turn the lights on” and give followers of Jesus eyes to see. That we would know the hope we're invited into, that we would know our true value and worth, and that we would know where our strength comes from.

Before finding out how to persevere until my answer from God arrives, I must make certain that I "qualify." Join me as we learn of three necessary qualifications. See: Ephesians 2:12, Mark 11:24, 1 John 5:14-15, Hebrews 6:12 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/larry-hunter/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/larry-hunter/support

This sermon was taken from the March 26th, 2k23 Sunday morning service at the Jesus is Lord Family Worship Center - 501 Redman St. Jacksonport, AR

Are there areas in your soul in desperate need of God's grace in relation to trauma? Learn, with Robin Kirby-Gatto, how Jesus Christ came to heal us in the fractured places of the soul.   ***   Welcome to Celebrating God's Grace, A Women World Leader's Podcast, I'm your host Robin Kirby-Gatto. Thank you for joining us today as we celebrate God's grace, in our lives, in our ministry, and around the world. Today's Title is: “God can heal the trauma that fractures your soul.” 17 “This was in fulfillment of what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, 18 Behold, My Servant Whom I have chosen, My Beloved in and with Whom My soul is well pleased and has found its delight. I will put My Spirit upon Him, and He shall proclaim and show forth justice to the nations. 19 He will not strive or wrangle or cry out loudly; nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets; 20 A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering (dimly burning) wick He will not quench, till He brings justice and a just cause to victory.” (Matthew 12:17-20 AMPC) Jesus Christ, the Son of God, gives us Eternal Life, delivering us from sin. Not only does He deliver us from sin, He heals us of the trauma that is the result of sin. This prophecy from Isaiah 42:1-3, is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. God has literal meaning of His word, as well as revelation richly applicable to our individual lives, of which this passage is one. I get into detail greatly on the issue of trauma in my upcoming book “The Forbidden Fruit, The Spiritual Disease,” where God reveals that the effects of sin are the impression of trauma. The acronym God gave me for “traumas” is Terror, Rejection, Abandonment, and Unloved Massively Announcing Shame. As a former psychotherapist, I saw the symptoms of trauma overabundantly in outpatient psychiatry. Presently, in my ministry work of health and wellness coaching, this is the most prevalent issue, in which I navigate my clients. We don't realize that even in the smallest way, we have an undercurrent of emotion, generally in those four areas, of terror, rejection, abandonment, and unloved, speaking within our body, causing us to react to things we've misinterpreted in life. Two symptoms of trauma I want to address are hypervigilance and being paranoid. Hypervigilance means that your super aware of things in your environment and you're getting ready to fend off a perceived violation that might come through a circumstance or through another person verbally, passive aggressively or physically. No one is immune from trauma in this fallen world. Adam and Eve were the first ones to experience this, as they were banished from the Garden of Eden as a result of eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, bringing about spiritual death, where sin entered mankind. (See Genesis 3:1-24) Sin separated mankind from God. From this act, sprang emotions unfelt before, reeling through Adam and Eve's bodies, of terror, rejection, abandonment and unloved cloaking them in shame. They tried desperately to cover themselves in fig leaves, hyper aware that something had changed. God hadn't changed, He still loved them. What changed was that sin separated mankind from God, where Adam and Eve now felt terror, rejection, abandonment and being unloved. Because of Christ Jesus and the power of Grace, we are freed from the impression of trauma. This is what the prophecy from Isaiah, recorded in the Gospel of Matthew is about. “20 A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering (dimly burning) wick He will not quench, till He brings justice and a just cause to victory.” (Matthew 12:20 AMPC) The bruised reed and smoldering wick, represents the soul that's experienced trauma. God provides a backdrop in which we can view the bruised reed and smoldering wick and its meaning, through the Hebrew words, which compose it. Bruised comes from the Hebrew word râtsats pronounced raw-tsats' meaning, “TO CRACK IN PIECES, break, bruise, crush, discourage, and oppress.” [i] Thus, the bruised reed represents the person whose life seems to be falling apart or is at the point of a nervous breakdown. I don't know about you, but I've had many opportunities in life, where I've felt like this. You must realize when this comes upon your person, it is only the “cracked” or fragmented parts of your soul, speaking and bleeding over into your entire body, overtaking you for the moment. You must stop and breathe, acknowledging GRACE! To provide an analogy I want to use the spelling of the Hebrew word for bruised, which is r.a.t.s.a.t.s. Let me say it one more time, R.A.T.S.A.T.S. Now I'm not a wordsmith by any means, but I cannot help but to see things in the Hebrew words, which my husband, Rich, calls “Robinisms.” I couldn't help but see RAT-SATS. This might not mean anything now but just wait. We live in an old apartment, which we love, built in the early 1900s in downtown Birmingham, Alabama in the historic garden district. We have three parks in the area, where many more old buildings stand, occupied by tenants who can appreciate the character of the old architecture. I feel like I'm living the HGTV House Hunters International life, except nationally. We've lived here for six years, and it wasn't until just a month ago, that we experienced a mouse issue in the place. Thank goodness it was a mouse and not a rat. Well, that mouse had a friend later, so it became mice. Although they were cute, they were unnerving as from time to time, they would come out and run across the kitchen floor, and eventually one was in our bedroom. Me being the wife that I am and knowing my husband, I tried to keep it on the down low as much as possible. Because of my work, I couldn't help but hear the mice in the apartment. I am a proficient writer, having written 70 plus workbooks, and now 14 books. My father jokingly says, years from now that he'll ask me what I'm doing and I'll respond, “I'm writing a new book.” Along with being a writer, I minister and do health and wellness coaching, all from our apartment. While writing, I could hear something moving in the kitchen for a few days and would get up and down over and over to see if I could find what it might be. Eventually, I discovered a mouse, and contacted the property management to deal with the issue. One was caught, and I let out a sigh of relief, only to find out two days later there was another one. The second one I saw scurrying across our bedroom floor, which was caught later. I cleaned our kitchen as though we were moving out, dismantling little boroughs of collected paper bags which might seem inviting for a critter. As well as getting into the nook and crannies, where I moved all the items in the kitchen, and then swept and mopped the floor. I'm grateful it was mice and not rats. Rats are bigger and very aggressive, compared to mice. I've heard stories of people that had to deal with rat infested homes, and it's not good. So, imagine if you had a rat sitting in your house and refusing to leave. No matter what, you couldn't get it out. That's what the effects of sin do, by leaving the impression of trauma. You might not have committed an act, but someone else committed an act against you. Regardless of who committed the act of sin, for which you've forgiven, you still have its impression in the form of trauma, which has made you hypervigilant on a matter or even paranoid. God's grace delivers us from this issue. He brings the power of His Word of Truth, where His Spirit of Truth, reveals His love, driving out the fear that was brought on by it. We see this in 1 John 4:18. 18 “There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors and EXPELS EVERY TRACE OF TERROR! For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love's complete perfection].” (1 John 4:18 AMPC) The bruise of the enemy, inflicted by sin, is trauma, the rat in our soul, gnawing at places in which we feel we'll never be healed. God's love makes us whole driving all terror out! The Greek word for fear is phóbos pronounced fob'-os meaning, “to be put in fear, alarm or fright, be afraid, and terror.” [ii] This is also where the word phobia comes from. Thus, God deals with the bruises on our soul, where we've acquired phobias. The dim wick represents a little flicker of a flame on a candle, barely burning. The Hebrew primary root word for dim is kâhâh pronounced kaw-haw' meaning, “to be weak, to despond, to grow dull, darken, be dim, fail, and faint.” [iii] This gives the picture of someone barely hanging onto life, who's hopeless. Jesus brings hope to the hopeless through His love, which is grace, lifting the weary traveler up onto the Highway of Holiness in Isaiah 35:8, where no unclean thing or beast can walk. No terror can tread on Love's path. The saint is bathed in the pure love of the Cross of Christ Jesus and what He has done, to know the power of His resurrection. That power is our inheritance. (See Ephesians 1:17-20) There is a process in working out our salvation as in Philippians 2:12, in fear and in trembling. That process is to know the grace of God that has come through Christ Jesus, so that although we've asked for forgiveness and have forgiven others, we must address our issue in getting past some things. The effects of sin have traumatized us in some fashion, which has left us feeling stuck, and possibly hopeless. The first step in addressing the area of trauma, is recognizing that you're feeling it in some form, whether it be terror, rejection, abandonment or unloved. This is prominent at times, where you might be triggered by what some says or does. You feel like a little girl lifting her hands, who longs to be picked up by her daddy and kept in his long embrace. This fractured part of the soul is where trauma dwells and needs to be healed by grace. One of my favorite stories, which I've taught in my books, is about the ruby. I teach God's scriptures with all the sciences, unfolding understanding of truth. When I taught on precious stones, in the series of God's Fire Wall Healing of the Soul, I taught on Job 28 and on the precious stone, the ruby. In Job 28, the prophet is grappling with his own trauma, which he's felt during his trial, where he's crying out for wisdom in the dark (dim) place, inside of a mountain. Sitting in darkness, Job's led to pull back a piece of the mountain, allowing the light to shine in, and he discovers himself sitting amid sapphires and other precious stones. How beautiful is that? We don't realize the precious blessings of God's truth that's made known to us in the darkest trials in our lives. When I studied and taught on rubies during the gemology and archeology I employed with scripture, it blew my mind. Did you know that a perfect ruby is rare. That's right. Isn't that surprising? Most rubies have what gemologist call “fractures.” Little fractures make their paths through the stone, which might cause a regular person to discard it. Fortunately, there's a process to make the imperfect fractured ruby, perfect. Oil is poured into the fractured parts of the ruby, that's then put into an oven heated at 500 degrees. Once done, the ruby is brought out, where the oil has baked into the fractures, and it is then made perfect. This process is called “healing,” where the fractured places in the ruby have now been healed. 500 represents grace for us, and is such a testament to the trials, which expose the areas of trauma in which we need healing. Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, doesn't discard us or break us, He sweeps us up in the Love of God, bringing the display of the Father's love for us. Where is it you need healing from past trauma? Let the Lord's love pour into your heart, overflowing within your mind, as you know the power of healing, grace.       [i] Strong J. (1890) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Abingdon Press. Strong's Concordance Hebrew word # 7533 “bruised” [ii] Strong J. (1890) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Abingdon Press. Strong's Concordance Greek word # 5401 “terror” [iii] Strong J. (1890) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Abingdon Press. Strong's Concordance Hebrew word # 3544 “dim”

Do you remember life before you started trusting Jesus? "They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus." Romans 2:15-16 ESV We're reminded again today that our enemy isn't flesh and blood. See Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 5:8. The people who don't follow Jesus are victims of the enemy, not the enemy themselves. When we don't follow Jesus, or when we're not listening to the Holy Spirit, our conflicting thoughts either accuse or excuse us. Other translations offer accuse or defend, condemn or approve. Without the Holy Spirit, we're stuck with this coin-toss. But as we listen to the Holy Spirit we end up getting more clear direction. We have access to better info. As a result, we're not to judge our coworkers or customers or vendors. We're to give them grace. So how can you show grace to your coworkers today? What about listening to them? What about giving them the benefit of the doubt? What about asking God to show you what he appreciates about them? What about doing something to be a blessing to them, rather than only focusing on yourself? Why not join us in the online community. You can intentionally put yourself into a community where everyone is trying to listen to God better and make a difference in the lives of our coworkers. You can find out more and create a free profile at https://community.followerofone.org.

In Christian Convictions, Chad Ragsdale lists 6 essentials of Christianity. These are elements that are the difference between salvation and lostness. Each belief written below is the bedrock of our faith. We cannot be a follower of Jesus if we do not believe these truths. 1. It is essential for a Christian to believe that God exists (and to earnestly seek him). See Hebrews 11:6. 2. It is essential that a Christian believes Jesus is Lord. See Romans 10:9. 3. It is essential that a Christian believes that Jesus is the risen Savior. See 1 Corinthians 15:3-8. 4. It is essential that a Christian is saved by grace through faith and not by human effort. See Ephesians 2:8-9. 5. It is essential that a Christian be born again by the Holy Spirit. See John 3:3. 6. It is essential that a Christian perseveres in a faithful faith. See Hebrews 3:14. You might be someone who has gone to church all your life. You might have even studied the Bible or taught it to others. But genuinely believing it is another question. Imagine if you begin to really, truly believe that Jesus is Lord. Imagine what might change if you let the truth that Jesus is the risen king sink into your heart to become its most bedrock conviction. Imagine believing with your whole self that you have a heavenly Father in heaven who loves you. If you know the essentials of the faith, it's time to really, honestly believe them.

Erica Wilson and Lydia Shook join us to discuss common fears women have in regard to submission and marriage. The Bible encourages us to submit to one another out of reverence for Jesus, but it also exhorts a woman to submit to her husband. What should that look like? What are the fears women face when it comes to submission? How do we overcome those fears and practice this Biblical principle?  This is a beneficial and practical episode for married couples. Tune in.  See: Ephesians 5:21-24; Colossians 3:18; 1 Peter 3:5 

The mourning that is spoken of here is mourning that is a sign of spiritual health, and is actually blessed by God. It tells us something about who we are in relation to Him. It is a mourning that is actually good for us, in which we share God's insights and perspectives and draw closer to Him. It is not the entirety of what we are to be as believers. Indeed, we have seen recently that there is much that we are to know about and feel that is immensely positive -See Ephesians 1-15-22-.--Main Heading---1- A grief observed-2- Some fundamental conclusions-3- A time to weep

The mourning that is spoken of here is mourning that is a sign of spiritual health, and is actually blessed by God. It tells us something about who we are in relation to Him. It is a mourning that is actually good for us, in which we share God's insights and perspectives and draw closer to Him. It is not the entirety of what we are to be as believers. Indeed, we have seen recently that there is much that we are to know about and feel that is immensely positive -See Ephesians 1-15-22-.--Main Heading---1- A grief observed-2- Some fundamental conclusions-3- A time to weep

In this episode, I share about my new podcast, "The Power of Five" which is all about all things Fivefold ministry (See Ephesians 4:11). If you have a desire to learn more about the fivefold ministry aka, the "Ascension gifts" then please subscribe to this new podcast. In the inaugural episode of the power of five podcast, Glenn Bleakney shares about great Grace and how the early church experienced the fullness of the manifestation of Christ as a result of the five fold ministry, collaborating and equipping the Church.Here is the RSS feed https://feeds.captivate.fm/the-power-of-five/

This weeks Bible questions include: What is the function of the seven deacon? How do recognize true believers? Mary Magdalene the sister of Martha in Luke 10, and also the women who had the issue of blood, whom Jesus healed? RE: Cherubim and Seraphim. Does the Bible tell us if both of these creatures are at God's throne at the same time? Why was Jesus being presented on the temple? I agree with soul sleep, but can you explain who the great multitude in heaven is in Rev. 19:1? At the end of this chapter there is a battle yet to be fought. So it's before judgment day. Are women allowed to teach and preach? See Ephesians 5:23-24 Is Luke 16: 19-31 a parable? Then what is the truth between heaven of blessings and hell of torment written in Revelations just as parable.

Does Head mean "boss" here? No. Does Head mean "source" here? I don't see why.The head-body metaphor points to one-ness. It illustrates unity in Christ. See Ephesians 5:31-32 and our book Beyond Eden, Ephesians 5-6.GO DEEPER

Isaiah 46 Sermon Notes:I. The God Who Carries Our Burdens, 1-4II. The God Who Saves us from Our Distress, 5-7III. The God Who Declares Our Future, 8-11IV. The God Who Draws Near to His Beloved, 12-13Reflection Questions:1. What are vv. 1-7 teaching us about idols? See especially vv. 2, 7. Compare this to the story of Dagon in 1 Samuel 5.2. People carry idols; God has been carrying (and will continue to carry) His people. What promises and past actions of God would that truth have brought to mind for Israel. See Exodus 19:4; Deuteronomy 1:31; 32:11; Isaiah 63:9.3. How has God brought His righteousness and salvation near to us who were far off? See Ephesians 2:11-22, especially vv. 13, 17.

The Commander Of The Lord's ArmyReader: Jon WatsonDate: 13th August 2022Passage: Joshua 5:13-------------------Joshua was all pumped up in readiness for the battle to capture Jericho, when the Israelites would cross the Jordan river. But what a surprise he got when all of a sudden a warrior with a drawn sword appeared in front of him! Joshua had never seen him before. Who could he be? "Is he one of our men or is he our enemy come into our camp?" Joshua wondered.Joshua's biggest surprise came when this newly arrived soldier said to him "I am the commander of the army of the Lord" (Joshua 5:14). What could this mean? The commander said to Joshua "Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy. And Joshua did so" (Vs 15). Here was one of those special visits of the eternal Son of God before he came to be born in Bethlehem. He came at that critical time to show Joshua that the battle he was going to fight was really God's battle against the evil heathenism of Jericho and the other tribes in Canaan.The Commander of the Lord's army was going to battle against evil then, just as the Lord's army is still fighting the forces of evil in our day. Joshua too had to fight against the evil enemy he could see just as we have to fight against evil as we see it. But Paul reminds us that there are spiritual forces of evil in the unseen world too strong for us to handle — the Lord's army fights against these (See Ephesians 6:10-13) PrayerDear Lord, we need your help to fight against evil. Help us we pray. Amen.

Note: The time signatures [00:00] below indicate the start of a question if you'd like to skip to a particular one of interest in the audio file.[00:00] - Q: My question is how as followers of Christ are we to equip ourselves and our children (besides prayer) to stand up against evil ideology but particularly LGBTQ agenda in our schools and the "in your face" push throughout media. How do we teach our kids to respond to teachers/peers when confronted with these movements?A: See - TBD[00:00] - Q: Why should I pray for this world if the Bible says that the world is going to get worse?A: TBD[00:00] - Q: There's a lot of dialogue in our country about rights. What rights are actually given to us by God?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: In light of many current events, shortages, and inflation, I feel the need to hoard food and necessities. Is it wrong to have an excess of these items in stock. Does that show a lack of faith in God's provision?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: What is a woman?A: TBD[00:00] - Q: What are your thoughts about churches with women pastors? What does the bible say about this?A: See 1 Timothy 2:12-15 - TBD[00:00] - Q: People at work say Christians can swear. Can they swear to be relevant?A: See Ephesians 5:4TBD[00:00] - Q: What does the Bible say about the use of Western Medicine example anti depressants, pain killers, medical marijuana, etc.?A: See Proverbs 31:6 TBD[00:00] - Q: Psalms are psalmists praises and often supplications, too. They are not necessarily God's promises. How shall we then treat those supplications? For example 1, Ps 6:23a, Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. Is this true for US? For example 2, Ps 90:15, Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. Does this prayer being included in Bible mean approval of this supplication by God? Can WE make the same supplication?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: If Jesus was a Galilean Jew, why aren't we?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: Are there spirits outside of angels and demons on earth? Is there any scripture that would lead us to believe that people once they die would be a spirit on earth?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: Are we missing something when it comes to the Sabbath and the value of rest? Jesus addresses the Pharisees' legalistic approach to the Sabbath and much of the OT has been fulfilled through the cross, but this is the only one of 10 commandments that isn't expected to be followed still.A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: Does Nicodemus believe that Jesus is who he says he is?A: See John 19:39 - TBD[00:00] - Q: Gen. 3:15 makes mention of Satan's "offspring". Did Satan procreate with humans? Who was Satan's offspring?A: See John 8:44 - TBD[00:00] - Q: What do you think is the strongest evidence outside of the Bible that Jesus of Nazareth is a historical existence?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: In Daniel chapter 10 at the very end of the chapter it says “but I will tell you what is inscribed in the book of truth there is none who contends by my side against these except Michael your prince.” Why is Michael called a prince? Are there other angels known as princes like Michael?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: When do the O.T. saints get their glorified bodies? If it is not at the time of the rapture when the dead rise first, can you explain?A: See TBD - TBD[00:00] - Q: Why does the Lord send Saul an evil spirit several times in 1 Samuel? Why would the Lord do that? We are told to ‘resist the devil and he will flee…'?A: See TBD - TBDAny question that was missed due to time constraints during the service Pastor Jeff will address the answer on the blog.Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK Small Group Questions (Whole Group):Review the questions submitted above. Discuss any of these that stuck out to you, or that maybe your group finds particularly interesting.Breakout Questions:Pray for one another!

So here is a question. While we are waiting for the return of Jesus Christ, what do we do about all the violence, injustice, and corruption in the world around us? Bring it to the King! Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords, has been given all authority to do righteousness and justice. (See Matthew 28:17ff) Therefore we should bring our requests, even our complaints, openly to the King in His court or goodness, mercy, and grace. Yet, it seems We have lost the will to pray. We believed a lie that prayer does not make a difference. This is without question the tactic of the devil. Remember, brother and sister, that he is the enemy of our faith and the church when we do not pray to lose our way. When we do not pray, we do not have power. We go to battle with no weapons. Remember, The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, or the flesh or of the earth, but are mighty in God for the pulling down of strongholds. (See 2 Corinthians 10:4–5) Never forget we have a God who can do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we could ask or even think. (See Ephesians 3:20-21) With God, all things are possible. (Mark 10:27) Does this mean that we will get everything we ask for? Absolutely not! We need to praise God in ungranted requests. Why? Because, as it seems to me, there is no such thing as an unanswered prayer. A "no" from the heart of a loving father is still an answer. But that does not mean we stop asking, seeking or knocking. For when we pray, we discover not that God is getting in line with our plans and ideas, but on the contrary, our hearts become aligned with His heart and desire. So stop, take a beat, and let's have a prayer. References: 2 Th 3:13 Hebrews 4:15–16 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18. Matthew 11:28–30 James 4:3 Lk 11:1–4 ----- Call us: 208.524.4747 prayer@watersprings.net Online Giving: https://watersprings.net/give.php Serve at Watersprings: https://watersprings.churchcenter.com/people/forms/8221 CCLI Streaming License: 20080252 Size E CCLI Copyright License: 1406906 Size F DISCLAIMER: Closed captioning and/or transcription is being provided solely for the convenience of our viewers. Watersprings Church does not review for accuracy any information that appears in a closed caption or transcript. Watersprings Church makes no representations or warranties, and expressly disclaims any responsibility or liability with respect to, any errors or omissions in, or the accuracy, reliability, timeliness or completeness of, any information that appears in a closed caption or transcript.

Before God called the prophet Isaiah to a position of leadership in the nation, He adjusted his vision. Uncorrected vision leads to skewed perspective, poor judgment, and wasted effort. Israel's constant rebellion was putting them in jeopardy with God, and they needed a leader with clear vision. So, the first thing God did was give Isaiah a vision of His glory and power. Without it, he could not have done the job. Without this life-changing encounter with God, he would never have been strong enough to complete his mission. And the same applies to you. Whatever God calls you to do will require more than a job description and some basic skills. You will need a vision of His glory and limitless power to reassure you He is more than adequate for the challenge! (See Ephesians 3:20.) The second thing God did was adjust Isaiah's vision of himself. Once your God-concept is adjusted, you're ready for a self-concept adjustment – and not before! If you start with step two, you will quit before you begin. Isaiah cried, ‘I am not pure, and I live among people who are not pure' (Isaiah 6:5 NCV). Isaiah realised he was no better than the people he had been called to reach. Until you see yourself realistically, honestly, and humbly in relation to God and others, your mission won't succeed (see Romans 12:3.) The third thing God the passing hour) is…producing…an everlasting weight of glory' (vv. 15-17 AMPC). When you're under pressure, your faith grows – and God knows exactly how much pressure to apply! He will let you get to 1) a place where you're out of answers and your resources seem depleted, 2) a place where you're tired of Satan stealing what you know God promised you, and 3) a place where you're no longer willing to let other people's opinions control you. (Remember, with God there are no hopeless situations, just people who have grown hopeless about them.) It's when there is nothing more you can do that you start trusting God to do the impossible. As Paul says, ‘This slight distress of the passing hour' (v. 17 AMPC). The crisis you're experiencing may be a blessing in disguise; an opportunity to experience God's ‘unfolding grace' and a greater degree of His power at work in your life.

“A man must have the discerning of spirits … to understand these things. … ‘Christ ascended into heaven, and gave gifts to men; and He gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and Teachers.' [See Ephesians 4:8, 10.] And how were [they] chosen? By prophecy (revelation) and by laying on of hands—by a divine communication, and a divinely appointed ordinance—through the medium of the Priesthood, organized according to the order of God” - Joseph Smith Hold to the Rod! iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/.../lds-fishers.../id1607875415 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3EBd9aMSwgO1JrSKN75AEJ iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-lds-fishers-of-men-92275180/ SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-53623457 Music: www.bensound.com While I am a member in good standing of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the views expressed in my videos are my own and do not officially represent the Church. If there is ever a conflict, the Brethren and the keys are right and I am wrong.

Every Christian Testifies Now Acts 2:1-21 Acts chapter 2 is one of the key chapters in the Bible. It records the fulfillment of the words of the Jesus and the Old Testament prophets about the beginning of the _________ ________________, when God the Holy Spirit will indwell believers! The Appointed Day ___________________ V. 1 And then _________ came! V. 2-4 The Difference between the baptism of the Spirit and the Filling of the Spirit: Baptism of the Spirit happens ______________ when a person is born again: God the Holy Spirit takes up residence inside them! See John 7:38-39 See I Corinthians 12:13 See Eph. 1:13-14 The Filling of the Spirit is something that can take place more than once as a believer lives out their faith. A Christian can grieve the Holy Spirit as they make _____________ decisions and not live in the power He came to provide. See Luke 11:13 See Ephesians 5:18 The key to being filled with the Holy Spirit is to __________________ yourself of the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life. A person filled with the Holy Spirit will bear the fruit of the Spirit. -Gal. 5:22-25 And then THEY ______________! V. 5-13 Every Christian Testifies Now V. 14-21 A person filled with the Holy Spirit will ____________________ about Jesus! The Day of the Lord's Judgment is still coming, but EVERYONE who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved!

The formation of good habits and the appropriation therein by the bad is a perennial topic of concern for Christians aiming to live a life worthy of their calling. See Ephesians 4:1. My guest today has written two books that will form the basis of our two part discussion on this very issue. In this first part, we will talk about The Common Rule. Then, later in the semester, we will tackle Habits of the Household. For more on Justin and his work, go here and here. You can also follow him on Twitter at @Justin_W_Earley.   Episode produced by Josh Deng, with music from Vexento. A Special Thanks to Nick and Ashley Barnett for their contribution in making this podcast possible.

Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 Many of us struggle to believe God can use us as we are, with what little we have to offer. But the truth is, God does extraordinary things through ordinary people to give glory to Himself. 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 gives good news to those who struggle with feelings of inferiority. “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty…” (1 Corinthians 1:27). This passage first recognizes God's simple people. He chooses the nonintellectuals to shame the Ph.D. scholars. He uses the weak to shame the All-Stars; He has chosen the “nobodies” to shame the socialites. Thank God that He can use people with brilliant minds, high status, and extraordinary abilities. But praise God, He can use any average person who dedicates every part of himself to Him; God doesn't just settle for these people—He goes after them. Second in this passage, we see God's special power: “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— that, as it is written, ‘He who glories, let him glory in the Lord'” (1 Corinthians 1:30-31). Adrian Rogers says, “I learned that God didn't want me to do anything for him; He wanted to do something through me.” In the Book of Judges, the story of Gideon demonstrates God's use of someone others consider “the bottom of the barrel” to do big things. Likewise, God used young David to take down the giant Goliath; as a result, God received the glory. Finally, we see God's sovereign purpose for using ordinary people: that no man should glory in himself in God's presence. We are saved by grace and not by works, so none of us can boast (See Ephesians 2:9.). There are no superstars in Heaven; if we want to be used by God in a way that matters, we only need to be available to Him and obey His will for our lives. Adrian Rogers says, “The highest place in the world is the center of the will of God for you, wherever that is.” Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “The greatest ability is availability.” If you want to be used by God, you can be; are you willing, or at least willing to be made willing?

• Our battles belong to the Lord, and he never loses! He never has and he never will!• Three times we are told the Jews "didn't take the plunder.” They did only what was necessary to defend themselves, which is in line with God's original command against the Amalakites, found in 1 Samuel 15.• Take note of the unity at the end of this passage. The Jews (and others!) were gathered together, full of joy and gladness, to rest and rejoice and feast! This battle united them!• Though invisible, God is always with us, fighting for us. Sometimes he fights alone, and sometimes he invites us to fight WITH him, like we see in Esther 9.• In what ways do we fight the battles we face today? What are our weapons, or armor? See Ephesians 6!• What is your focus when facing any battle? Your own inadequacy or God's faithfulness, sovereignty, and power? How would it change the view of our battles if we had an eternal, God-centered perspective?

• Our battles belong to the Lord, and he never loses! He never has and he never will! • Three times we are told the Jews "didn't take the plunder.” They did only what was necessary to defend themselves, which is in line with God's original command against the Amalakites, found in 1 Samuel 15. • Take note of the unity at the end of this passage. The Jews (and others!) were gathered together, full of joy and gladness, to rest and rejoice and feast! This battle united them! • Though invisible, God is always with us, fighting for us. Sometimes he fights alone, and sometimes he invites us to fight WITH him, like we see in Esther 9. • In what ways do we fight the battles we face today? What are our weapons, or armor? See Ephesians 6! • What is your focus when facing any battle? Your own inadequacy or God's faithfulness, sovereignty, and power? How would it change the view of our battles if we had an eternal, God-centered perspective?

< Back to Joshua IndexTALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANSJoshua's Farewell Address to the Israelite Leaders Printed Version BACKGROUND NOTESDOCTRINAL POINT(S)God is faithful to His promises in the land.God is faithful to His warnings in the land.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONPractice the three steps of preventive maintenance for your spiritual life: a. Obey the word of God b. Separate from the world c. Love the Lord your GodQUESTIONSIn the last three chapters of the book of Joshua, there are three farewell messages: Chapter 22 - Joshua's farewell to _____________ Chapter 23 - Joshua's farewell to ___________ Chapter 24 - Joshua's farewell to ____________Where was the covenant renewed?How long after the conquest was over did Joshua's second farewell address occur?At that time, the Lord had given rest, and Joshua was old. About how old?In Joshua 13, the Lord had told Joshua that he was old and advanced in years. How old was he then?What does the physical land of Joshua represent?What is this land called in Ephesians?Is this the heaven to come in the future?ANSWERSthe military troops of the two and one-half tribes whose territories were on the other side of the Jordan River; the rulers and leaders of Israel; to all the people.At Shechem.Anywhere from five to twenty years.About 100 years old, or even 110.At least ninety.The spiritual land we enter when we become Christians.The "heavenlies."No. It is the unseen but real realm of spiritual blessings and battles now.DISCUSS/CONSIDERAs God was faithful to His promises concerning the physical land of Canaan for Israel, so he is faithful to His promises concerning the spiritual land He has given to us. See Ephesians 1:1-3. This was a continuing promise, just as Philippians 1:6. What is the evidence of God's sanctification continuing in your life?God gave warnings to the people in the land. The same is true today for the spiritual land that God has given us. If we do not follow faithfully, we suffer loss and ruin. What do you believe is keeping you from following fully?CHALLENGEAre you practicing the three steps of preventive maintenance for your spiritual life? How diligently are you reading and obeying the word of God? Are you separated from the idolatry and evil of this world system? Do you love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul and mind?KEY VERSES"You have seen everything the Lord your God has done for your sake; it was the Lord your God who fought for you." (Joshua 23:3)"Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law. Avoid association with nations with other gods; do not serve or bow down to them. Hold fast to the Lord your God." (Joshua 23:6-8)"You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed." (Joshua 23:14)

< Back to Joshua IndexTALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANSThe Cities Given to the Levites Printed Version BACKGROUND NOTESDOCTRINAL POINT(S)God provides Levites for His people.God provides His people for the Levites.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONRemember, rest land is not vacation land.QUESTIONSName the three groups of Levites.How many cities were given to the Levites in all?Why didn't the Levites receive territory in Israel?What territory was Simeon given?What special role was given to the Levites and why?Who were the official interpreters and scribes of the law?Why were the Levites situated throughout the land in the forty-eight cities, and not just around Jerusalem and the temple?ANSWERSKoathites, Gersonites, and MeraritesForty-eightBecause of their participation with Simeon in leading the unholy slaughter of the Jeshonites.Only cities scattered throughout Judah's territory.They were servants of the Lord because they stood with Moses at the tragic event of the gold calf. See Exodus 32:26.The Levites.So they could teach the word of God to all the people. No Israelite lived more than ten miles from a Levitical city. Anyone who had questions about the law and the word of God could have easy access to speak to a LeviteDISCUSS/CONSIDERGod provided the Levites as servants and teachers of the word for His people. Today, God continues to provide for His people. See Ephesians 4:11-12. Recall servants of the Lord who have taught and ministered the word of God to you over the years.The tribes of Israel gave up forty-eight of their cities for the Levites, as well as the surrounding pasture lands and suburbs. The Levites were provided for by God's people both in this way and they were supported by their tithes. Can you relate this to today? See Galatians 6:6 and 1 Corinthians 9:13-14. How have you shown your appreciation for the Lord's servants who have ministered to you through the years?Read Nehemiah 13:10-12. During the closing days of the Old Testament period portions were not given by the people, so the Lord's servants had to go back to secular employment, and the work of the Lord suffered. Do you know of a case of this today? Do you at least tithe? If you are serving the Lord full time, remember that the Levites tithed, too. See Numbers 18:26CHALLENGEThe tribes got bogged down, failing to fully possess all the land that God had given them. Are you possessing all the spiritual land of blessing that the Lord has given to you? See Matthew 11:28-29 and 1 Corinthians 15:58.KEY VERSES"The Israelites gave to the Levites from their own inheritance, at the commandment of the Lord, cities and common lands." (Joshua 21:3)"Not one of all the Lord's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." (Joshua 21:45)

< Back to Joshua IndexTALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANSA Summary the Kings Conquered by Israel on Both Sides of the Jordan Printed Version BACKGROUND NOTESDOCTRINAL POINT(S)God keeps a record of the believers' enemies in the land.God keeps a record of the believers victories in the land.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONCount your many battles. Name them one by one.QUESTIONSWhat is the difference between the Amorites and the Ammonites?How many kings were conquered by Israel on the east side of the Jordan? How many kings were conquered on the west side of the Jordan?What were so many kings doing in a land about the size of the state of New Jersey?What does the physical land of Canaan represent spiritually?What do the kings represent?Why does God keep a record of our spiritual victories?ANSWERSAmorites were enemies of Israel. Ammonites were descendants of Lot.East side - 2; west side - 31.The Canaanites were not united as a nation, but they were fractured up into many city-states with a ruling king for each city.The blessings and battles that the Lord has given to Christians and wants them to possess. God wants us to enjoy the blessings and be victorious over the battles.The satanic forces that work to keep Christians defeated, and to keep them from enjoying the spiritual blessings in Christ. See Ephesians 6:12.So He can reward us. See 1 Corinthians 3:12-14DISCUSS/CONSIDERGod keeps a record of all the enemy opposition that we face. He knows everything that Satan is doing. Do you doubt that He is aware of your battles? Do you doubt that He can give you the victory? Don't ever doubt God's concern for you.God not only knows about the enemy forces, but He enables us to have victory over them. God is faithful and will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able to bear. Do you believe this? Believe it!CHALLENGERemember to thank the Lord for giving you victory over certain temptations. Just thanking the Lord gives you strength for further victories, even in the same areas of temptation. Don't rest on your laurels.KEY VERSES"These are the kings of the land whom the Israelites had defeated and whose land they possessed." (Joshua 12:1)

The Commander Of The Lord's Army Reader: Jon Watson Date: 13th August 2021 Time: Passage: Joshua 5:13 ------------------- Joshua was all pumped up in readiness for the battle to capture Jericho, when the Israelites would cross the Jordan river. But what a surprise he got when all of a sudden a warrior with a drawn sword appeared in front of him! Joshua had never seen him before. Who could he be? "Is he one of our men or is he our enemy come into our camp?" Joshua wondered. Joshua's biggest surprise came when this newly arrived soldier said to him "I am the commander of the army of the Lord" (Joshua 5:14). What could this mean? The commander said to Joshua "Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy. And Joshua did so" (Vs 15). Here was one of those special visits of the eternal Son of God before he came to be born in Bethlehem. He came at that critical time to show Joshua that the battle he was going to fight was really God's battle against the evil heathenism of Jericho and the other tribes in Canaan. The Commander of the Lord's army was going to battle against evil then, just as the Lord's army is still fighting the forces of evil in our day. Joshua too had to fight against the evil enemy he could see just as we have to fight against evil as we see it. But Paul reminds us that there are spiritual forces of evil in the unseen world too strong for us to handle — the Lord's army fights against these (See Ephesians 6:10-13) ## Prayer Dear Lord, we need your help to fight against evil. Help us we pray. Amen.

In this special bonus episode, Erika discusses two key elements to bible study: interpretation and covenants. Our understanding of what God's word says to us is usually based on our ability to interpret what's going on in the text. "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2 Tim. 3:16–17)Eisegesis vs. Exegesis reading into the text using your worldview and cultural filter vs. starting with the author's intent and asking the following questions:https://www.theopedia.com/exegesisCultural Christianity is full of "Christian Sayings" but a lot of those saying are not actually in the bible. Some may be paraphrases or interpretations of what people have thought it was saying and other times, these sayings or colloquialisms are just something somebody made up. The bible is made up of two main covenants or agreements that God makes with people. As Christians, we are in agreement with God under the "New Covenant" or "New Testament" so that is what applies to us as believers in the resurrection of Jesus. See Ephesians 4 or Matthew 5 - 7. It's a shorter episode so we're releasing it mid-week as a bonus... Enjoy!Follow me @culturalchristianity on Facebook and InstagramPlease subscribe or follow where ever you're listening to this podcast.Support the show (https://cash.app/$erikasahm)

by Pastor Chuck Ryan God's Great Grace is Synonymous with Service     Text: Ephesians 3:1-13 (vs 7) Thesis: It is because of God's Great Grace that we are given the profound privilege of serving.   The Apostle Paul proclaims his “Apostleship” is a gift of grace from God. (vs 1-13)   In the previous verses we learned that our salvation is a gift of grace. (See Ephesians 2:8-9)   Paul makes it clear, to be called by God into service, is a gift of grace also. We have the privilege of serving God because He is gracious. To serve God is a high calling. When we are in God's service, we are literally working along side the Holy Triune Godhead. God the Father- “Jesus said to them, ‘My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.” (John 5:17) God the Son- “Not my will but thine.” (Luke 2:42) God the Holy Spirit- “But the Advocate (Counselor), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” (John 14:26)   Paul teaches in working for God, we all have been given a variety of gifts. (Turn to Romans 12:1-8)   Note, not every person has been given the same gift. (Read again verses 4-6) Paul makes it clear, even though we have different gifts, we are one body, in Christ. Paul also makes it clear; we belong to one another and need one another. (Romans 12:1:5) We are called to use our gifts with proficiency. Let us serve God with dignity and honor! We are a “Royal Priesthood”   -“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter2:9)  We are “Ambassadors” of God.    -“We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.” (2 Cor. 5:20)  

WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT ENTERS YOU HE BRINGS NEW BIRTHJohn 3:5-6HE LIVES WITHIN YOUDo you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? 1 Corinthians 6:19HE HELPS YOU UNDERSTAND THE BIBLE1 Corinthians 2:9, 13Jer. 29:11…. 14.  ”I will be found by you...gather from Nations… And I will bring you back from exile.” HE ENABLES YOU TO PRAY IN THE SPIRIT   Jude 1:20Romans 8:26He Is Your Prayer Partner.  Jesus – “During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.”       2.  He Intercedes For You.         3.  He Speaks And Gives Guidance.   HE GIFTS YOU WITH SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCES The Holy Spirit is God And He Is A Real Person.  “He” Not “It”Romans 8:27 (NIV) He Has A Will. “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all… It is the one and only Spirit who distributes all these gifts. He alone decides which gift each person should have.” 1 Corinthians 12:4,11 (NLT) He Has Emotions. “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God….” Ephesians 4:30 (NIV) “…the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)SPIRITUAL GIFTS: Literally - The Spirituals, Spiritual Gifts. Thoughts, opinions, precepts, ascribable to the Holy Spirit working in the soul. Effects produced by the sole power of God himself without natural instrumentality.  (Gateway Personally Word, Prayer, Worship)  Motivational Gifts: “ . . . Different kinds of gifts . . .”(I Corinthians 12:4). How God works in a believer to shape his perspective on life and motivate his words and actions. (See Romans 12:3–8.)7 Motivational Gifts: Mercy, Serving, Giving, Administration, Exhortation, Teaching, ProphecyMinistry Gifts: “ . . . Different kinds of service . . .”(I Corinthians 12:5). How God works with what a believer does to serve and meet the needs of others. (See Ephesians 4:11–13 and I Corinthians 12:27–31.)5 Offices Of Ministry: Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, Teacher. Manifestation Gifts: “...Different kinds of working…” (I Corinthians 12:6). How God works through a believer in a given situation to demonstrate His supernatural power. (See I Corinthians 12:7–11.)9 Manifestation Gifts: Knowledge, Wisdom, Prophecy, Faith, Healing, Miracles, Discerning Spirits, Tongues, Interpreting Tongues.  Ephesians 5:18-20 

Drop off your emotional baggage at airport terminal- God International. Restoration is in God's hands when we bring our hurts to His feet. What are you carrying around that's depleting your emotions? God can teach us how to deal with our emotions and unfinished issues from the past, but we have to let Him. We can't change what happened, but we can choose how we respond. God commands us to get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander (See Ephesians 4:31).  Blessings xo Christian Counseling & Consulting -> https://meliadiana.com/our-service Books-> https://meliadiana.com/books VR Ministries -> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-relationship-ministries Courses -> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-relationship-academy

SPIRITUAL ORDER “Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.”—1 Thessalonians 5:23 To live daily in the Tree of Life, it helps to know that God designed you with three distinct parts, and it helps to embrace the principles of spiritual order. Understanding spiritual order will help us get rid of the sin in our lives and walk in holiness and freedom. As believers, we long to live lives of fellowship with God. While this is our desire, life in fellowship with God does not come naturally for us. Since the fall in the Garden, mankind has battled a sin nature that wars against our desire to be holy. The Apostle Paul said that there is an internal struggle that goes on between the desire to do right and the natural tendency to do wrong. Read Romans 7:21–23 out loud. Then pray through Romans 12:1–2, making it an opportunity for a conversation between you and God. Write down anything you feel like God is saying to you through this Scripture. God created us with three distinct parts:  A spirit that must be redeemed  A soul that must be restored  A body that must surrender  At the moment of salvation, our spirit is made alive in Christ and immediately put into right standing with God. (See Romans 3:24, 5:1). The Bible calls this event justification: “just-as-if I had never sinned.” However, the soul and body will require time and effort to be conformed to the image of Christ. (See Ephesians 4:12–13). This gradual process is called sanctification. God desires that we be transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which happens more and more as we learn to discern God's voice in our lives and choose to be led by his Spirit. Read 2 Corinthians 3:16–18 two or three times. Invite the Holy Spirit to lead you in understanding these verses, and write down anything that comes to mind as you read through them. Take your time. What does the word “glory” mean in this passage? In Galatians 4:19, Paul portrays sanctification as a process. How long this process takes depends on our willingness to engage with the Word of God, accept it as absolute truth in our lives, and apply it to all of our circumstances. 

January 10, 2021 AM, 1 Corinthians 12:27-31.God emphasizes to us that the church is a unified body, with each part having a different role in ministry for the building up of the body. This blows up the “clergy versus laity” model that is so common as to be accepted implicitly in most people’s minds. The church is not one minister and many members; it is many memberministers! It is a body with all parts operating; an engine with all parts functioning; a biosphere with all parts living and fulfilling their roles; a bustling corporation with every employee scurrying about doing their part to accomplish the mission statement; a family where all the members are doing their part. See Ephesians 4:11-16 and Romans 12:3-8 for other expressions of the same truths. What has God appointed you to do in the church? Find your role, exercise that role wholeheartedly as to the Lord, and be satisfied in it. Keep your eyes open for more opportunities to serve, or different ways your gift(s) can be used in the church, or for a different gift you did not know you had. Pray God will bless the church with more gifted people as He sees fit. Our Scripture reading was found in Isaiah 13:1-22.

Selected Scriptures Series: Our Worship #2 # Introduction The feedback after last Sunday's sermon about liturgical feedback was encouraging, as in, many of you were encouraged. There is more to say today, and there will be more to say after today. My observations about what the liturgy has been working into us over the last decade or so are what they are, but those observations don't say much about our objectives for following such a liturgy. While we can and should be thankful for the fruit, the liturgical seeds we're sowing were not chosen just because we thought they would prepare us for something. They were chosen because we thought they would help our worship. We always say something, not just by our words, but by what we choose to do and how we choose to do it, even when it becomes routine. Most of the time we just eat dinner and talk about the day. Sometimes the dinner is special and we talk about how tasty it was. But most nights we don't all talk about the recipes used and the methods followed and the food presented. It's all important, even strategic at different levels, but not explicit. We eat, we're strengthened, we get back to work. Our liturgy is like a recipe. It's there, and those who lead the Lord's Day liturgical charge consider it as they prepare, but we only talk about the recipe explicitly a few times a year. While there are many aspects to body life, our corporate worship on Sunday mornings is unique, and it works on and in us (and even through us) in ways that are worth knowing about. As should become more apparent as this message continues, the ingredients are not something only a few should know. When I asked the elders about this round of liturgy reminders, they all agreed that it was worth setting a full table. We have been joined by a good number of worshippers who may like the taste, but may not have heard why we make it like this. We also have some among us who've been among us all along, but they are now twelve years-old instead of two, or they are saved instead of not, or they are different than they were and at a new stage of appreciating the meal. Then there are the rest of us who need regular reminders because we haven't memorized the recipe. (Every once in while, someone who has otherwise enjoyed the taste freaks out when they hear what's in it, but that's not the norm.) I'm making the same meal of messages once more, but so far fresh. We will consider the five Cs, why we chose to cook with those ingredients, what flavor we're going for. But before that, there is an assumption that is only an assumption if you stop thinking about it. Our liturgy (the recipe and ingredients and pattern) is for the worship of *the assembly*. It should not be surprising that one's understanding of *who* worship is for affects how worship is conducted. Our gathering together on the Lord's Day is for corporate worship not for large-group evangelism. We meet as a church, we meet as those belonging to the Church, as those who confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead. Of course not everyone who comes is a Christian, and there are congregations, in different contexts of history and cultures, where one might expect a higher number of spiritually dead men to attend. But we are a group of worshippers, and the liturgy should help Christians to worship, not constantly question whether we are Christians. That "church" (as a verb) is for the church (as a noun) is not assumed by many churches/pastors. But I've observed that of the churches that do think church is for the church, many still treat it like the worship of the church is for *Christians*, and treat them much more as individuals than as an assembly. It is a bitter cocktail of cultural individualism mixed with ecclesiastical conversionism, topped off with pastoral neuroticism. It was just 10 years ago, *after* having grown up going to church, after attending three different Bible colleges, after finishing seminary, after serving for ten years in pastoral ministry, that I was floored by this reality. It is not whether or not we're an assembly. We are the assembly, whether we know it and act like it or don't. We are God's people and together we meet with Him and praise His name. This identity is game changing, liturgy changing, and world changing. Abraham Kuyper wrote in his book, _Our Worship_: > "The goal of all worship services must be to let the assembled congregation taste that fellowship with their God. Otherwise there may be learnedness, there may be profundity, there may be deep earnestness, but there is no religion and therefore no divine worship." This is *our* worship. The "our" refers to believers, the "our" also means you are not mere individuals nor are you a mere audience. The liturgy is for the entire body. I started reading a book on bio-ethics this past week (ha! yes, but still true). The author used a word I am very familiar with in a way I had never considered. I had never thought of this usage because it's not really what the word means, but it could just as easily. The word is *remember*. It comes from *re-* meaning "again" and *memorari* meaning “to be mindful of." Remember means to bring to mind again. But what about the word *dismember*? *Dis* means "take away," but to dismember doesn't mean to remove mindfulness. The *member* part in dismember comes from *membrum* meaning "limb" of the body. So if dismember means to take away a limb from the body, why can't remember mean to bring the limb back to the body? Take that meaning out for a mental spin. We are members of one body, in the 1 Corinthians 12 use of members as parts. > For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ…. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. (1 Corinthians 12:12, 27) There are many of us, so it is possible to consider each one of us individually. But we are more than individuals. We are more than truth-collection tubes stacked near to one another. We are a living organism. Think of the body you belong to. Think about how our assembling on the Lord's Day is a rejoining the rest of you. Yes, we are still Christ's body on Thursday when we're at our posts. We are still Christ's body when we're sick. We are Christ's body with all believers all over the world, and throughout the generations. But there is also something special about re-integrating, re-membering the assembly for corporate worship. This fits with Peter's identification of those who are built on the cornerstone who is Christ. > As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:4-5) There is a plurality of stones making one house. And more corporate identity: > you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; (1 Peter 2:9-10) It's why we pray "*Our* Father" (Matthew 6:9). It's why "we *all*, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image, from one degree of glory to another" (2 Corinthians 3:18). We are God's *people* not just godly persons. Of course not all priests are godly; see the Old Testament. But follow 1 Peter 2:1-3, get rid of sin, crave the word, grow up in salvation, and *worship*. When we remember our identity, we all, as the priesthood of believers, offer spiritual sacrifices to God. We all are a holy (1 Peter 2:5), royal (1 Peter 2:9) priesthood. So we all worship and proclaim God's excellencies. It is definitely possible for Christians to forget their corporate connection. It is par for our culture that individualism runs amok, that sinners isolate themselves and think too highly of themselves. But another reason the flavor of individualism is so strong is because of churches and their liturgies, and in particular those who have responsibility to lead the liturgy. What I mean is that those in the pulpit are the first to do damage to the identity of the assembly rather than those in the pews. There is a dominate pastoral mindset today that seeks to *test* the attendees rather than to build the assembly. I am speaking of orthodox churches, God-centered churches, Reformed-ish churches, not smooth-talking, ear-tickling Jesus TV audiences. Elders are required to identify and refute error (Titus 1:9), yet too many seem to think that their chief role is that of testing professions of faith. But Paul told the Ephesians that pastors and shepherds were given by God for *training* the saints. The goal is not testing, the goal is "*building* up the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). Church isn't mostly for evangelism, nor is it mostly for examination, it is for exalting God and edifying His people. The shepherds and teachers have distanced themselves from the sheep and are constantly badgering and pushing the sheep rather than patiently equipping and caring for them. This has had disastrous consequences for husbands and fathers, and down the line also for employers and our representatives/rulers in government. We are an imitative people, and shepherds are explicitly called to be “not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3). Men who should be leading without a controlling, demanding spirit have provided the wrong pattern. I blame the pretension of the pulpit. Among many who would call themselves sons of the Reformers, the furniture of the pulpit has replaced the Pope's chair; the misplaced authority and over-realized importance is just as strong. It is a subdued but still harmful division between sacred and secular, but among Protestants it is between pulpit and pew. Shepherds approach the lectern as a launching point against the sheep. They treat the sheep like the enemy. They question the faith of the sheep Jesus obtained with His own blood (Acts 20:28). The answer is not to install plexiglass music stands, or to sit on a stool in a sweater. I like a good pulpit, and it is good for the pulpit to be front and center. But, ironically for those who talk so earnestly about being “biblical,” there are no pulpits in the Bible. At best there is a platform for those reading God's Word to be seen and heard (Nehemiah 8:4), but no "sacred desk." Similarly, and also ironically, the Bible says, “Not many of you should become teachers” (James 3:1). But it doesn't say that then the people can't be godly, holy, consecrated, and mature in Christ. It is preachers who have defined their ministry as more important rather than stewarding their particular giftedness for the building up of the body (1 Corinthians 12:3). It is preachers who have forgotten the priesthood of believers, and have become like Gentiles domineering over those they are supposed to be leading by example (1 Peter 5:2-3), not by fiat/diktat. A man's ordination to ministry does not have more value than a believer's election to salvation. In other words, being recognized by a group of men for sake of being an elder doesn't make one more important than being chosen by God, atoned for by God's Son, and indwelt by God's Spirit. By the grace of God we are being built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. What we build with will become manifest when the day of the Lord discloses it, whether with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay or straw (1 Corinthians 3:10-15). But Paul's point is that *you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you. God's temple is holy, you are that temple, so don't let anyone destroy it* (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). # Conclusion Paul referred to those he served as his joy, his crown. “Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved” (Philippians 4:1). He was not only *not* threatened by them, he was seeking to present them as complete in Christ (Colossians 1:28). This is because he represented God to them. He was showing what God is like. And God is more than the big test-giver in the sky. God is our Father, God fellowships with His people, He feeds His people, He strengthens them, and He glorifies them. God *loves* His own. > "What king surrounds himself with warped, dwarfish, worthless creatures? The more glorious the king, the more glorious are the titles and honors he bestows. The plumes, cockades, coronets, diadems, mantles, and rosettes that deck his retinue testify to one thing alone, his own majesty and munificence. He is a very great king to have figures of such immense dignity in his train, or even better, to have raised them to such dignity. These great lords and ladies, mantled and crowned with the highest possible honor and rank are, precisely, his vassals. This glittering array is his court! All glory to him, and in him, glory and honor to these others." —Thomas Howard, _Evangelical Is Not Enough_, 87) See Ephesians 2:4–7, and Colossians 1:27, and God's aim to show us His immeasurable riches of kindness and glory in Christ. You will not be the same after re-membering like this week after week. This is where making Marysville a destination succeeds or fails. You will have great difficulty trying to explain it not just to unbelievers, but to friends and brothers in Christ who have been told that the Lord is good but by men who have not tasted it. There will be a degree of distance between you for now, and it is because you have been being transformed from one degree of glory to another differently than they have. May it be so more and more. ---------- ## Charge Charles Spurgeon said in 1887, "Children of God, whatever you have got, you have a God in whom you may greatly glory. Having God you have more than all things, for all things come of Him; and if all things were blotted out, He could restore all things simply by His will. He speaks, and it is done; He commands, and it stands fast. Blessed is the man that hath the God of Jacob for his trust....Let the times roll on, they cannot affect our God." So trust God, keep loving one another, and use the grace He gives. ## Benediction: > As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:10–11, ESV)

God's church began with Adam and comprises all consecrated men and women to the present day. However, the Christian church did not formally begin until after the death and resurrection of Christ when God's people were gathered together on the day of Pentecost. Therefore, Pentecost was a critical moment for the beginning of the church. Yet even then, the church could not begin its work in bringing the gospel to the world until they were empowered by the Holy Spirit. This is why Christ told the people to tarry and wait in supplication and prayer for the gift of the Spirit. And this is just what they did.It was vital that God's people were truly united before He empowered them to fulfil the gospel commission. This is due to the fact that there is one body, or in other words, one church. There is also one faith. (See Ephesians 4).Yet if this is the case, then how can we differ so much in our understanding of the most basic principles of the gospel? On the other hand, how can we unite together as Christ's body—in the spirit of ecumenism—while we ignore these obvious divisions of faith and doctrine? Remember, the church is portrayed as the body of Christ. And since Christ is not divided, nor can his church be. So what is it that's hindering this perfect unity from taking place today?www.gatheredfragments.comhello@gatheredfragments.com

Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun set on your anger, and do not leave room for the devil.(See Ephesians 4:26)(New American Bible, Revised Edition)

The Commander Of The Lord's Army Reader: Jon Watson Date: 13th August 2020 Time: ------------------- Joshua was all pumped up in readiness for the battle to capture Jericho, when the Israelites would cross the Jordan river. But what a surprise he got when all of a sudden a warrior with a drawn sword appeared in front of him! Joshua had never seen him before. Who could he be? "Is he one of our men or is he our enemy come into our camp?" Joshua wondered. Joshua's biggest surprise came when this newly arrived soldier said to him "I am the commander of the army of the Lord" (Joshua 5:14). What could this mean? The commander said to Joshua "Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy. And Joshua did so" (Vs 15). Here was one of those special visits of the eternal Son of God before he came to be born in Bethlehem. He came at that critical time to show Joshua that the battle he was going to fight was really God's battle against the evil heathenism of Jericho and the other tribes in Canaan. The Commander of the Lord's army was going to battle against evil then, just as the Lord's army is still fighting the forces of evil in our day. Joshua too had to fight against the evil enemy he could see just as we have to fight against evil as we see it. But Paul reminds us that there are spiritual forces of evil in the unseen world too strong for us to handle — the Lord's army fights against these (See Ephesians 6:10-13) ## Prayer Dear Lord, we need your help to fight against evil. Help us we pray. Amen.

Pastor Chuck Ryan   Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?”   Text: Mark 8:27-30 Thesis: God is calling believers to have a mature understanding of the nature of Jesus Christ so that they can be His “Ambassadors” to a lost world.   Jesus is concerned that people have correct knowledge of who he is. (vss27-18). Jesus asked, “Who do they say that I am?” Jesus was concerned about people in general knowing who He was. Christians should ask, “do the people I am visiting with know that Jesus is God and why he came?” Jesus is God! “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1) Jesus became flesh and blood! “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) Jesus came to seek and save! “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." (Luke 19:10) God has called all Christians to be His “ambassadors”. “We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.” (2 Cor. 5:20) Because God is calling us, it is a high calling! God himself, is “making his appeal through us.”   Jesus is concerned that his disciples have a correct understanding of who he is. (vs29) Jesus asked a second question, “Who do you say that I am.” Peter answered the question correctly. “You are the Christ (or Messiah)” Jesus' primary concern for his disciples was for them to have a clear understanding of who he was and why he came. (See answer above) Jesus would be leaving in a few short years and it was vital that his disciples have a clear understanding of his divine nature and his desire to be the savior of the world. Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John14:6) Jesus desires for his disciples to grow in the knowledge of him. (See Ephesians 4:1-16) “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” (Ephesians 4:13) “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6) Not being immature and being tossed about. “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 4:14) “Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness.” (Hebrews 5:13)  

"When Obedience Matters" Acts 5:21b - 32, (Focal Vs. 2) When It Comes To Obedience, How Do You Define It? It is easy to define as "Doing The Right Thing." Obedience has nothing to do with action, it has all to do with attitude and character of the heart.CONDITIONED TO FOCUS ON DOING1. Marriage example - Couples obeying each other2. Children's example - Taught to do as parents say3. Today's example - How are you doing?Every child of God is a Masterpiece from the Creator, not a Created being to work on becoming a Masterpiece.See Ephesians 2:28-10Examples Of Those Who Were Obedient1 - Moses - Exodus 3:4-142 - Abraham - Genesis 15:2, 5-6 22:1-3 11-123 - Jonah - Jonah 1:1-3a 3:1-34 - Paul - Acts 9:1-6 What Do All These Have In Common?What Did All These Experiences After They Yielded To God?______________________________________If you wish to Support our Ministry, your Contributions can be mailed to :Gathering Community ChurchPO Box 1813Murrells Inlet, SC. 29576-------------------------------------------------------------Gathering Community Church1504 Hwy 17 NorthSurfside Beach, SC. 29575843.828.3333--------------------------------------------------------------EMAIL: gatheringcc1210@gmail.comWEBSITE: https://www.gatheringcommunitychurch.comCCLI LICENSE #20066032

Luke 17:11-19 Sermon Notes1) Jerusalem, 11 2) Distance, 12 3) Mercy, 13 4) Priests?, 14 5) Glorifying God, 15 6) The Samaritan, 16 7) The Nine, 17 8) The One, 18 9) Faith, 19 Reflection questions: 1. Why does Luke mention Jerusalem in v.11? Is it merely a geographical detail? See Luke 9:21-22; 43-44; 51, 53. 2. Why is gospel of God’s grace to Gentiles and foreigners (see Lk 17:16-18) good news to you? If you are Jewish – Is there any advantage to being Jewish? Does that advantage (if there is one) mean that you need God’s grace less? – See Romans 3:1-4, 9-20. 3. Does faith save you? Does God save you? See Ephesians 2:1-9.

Introduction: 5 Things You Need to Get for Change to Stick: Get Real. with God. Revelation 3:20 - Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. Get biblical Counsel . Get specific about "Putting Off" and "Putting On" . See Ephesians 4:22-32, Romans 6:19, Ephesians 5:18 Get a new Fellowship . 1 Corinthians 15:33 - Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals. Get Hopeful . 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 - Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead any of the passages from this week’s messageWhat was your big “take-away” from the message?Explain why “just quitting” is not enough for deliverance from addiction. What else has to happen? Be specific. See Ephesians 4:22-32, Romans 6:19.Imagine a friend in your neighborhood confesses a serious drinking problem to you. How would you help? Where would you tell him/her to start? Why?BreakoutConfess any addiction issues you struggle with and pray for one another.

If you're new to the website, today's broadcast is the fourth day of our study of Exodus. The call of Moses is the call to serve and to lay our lives down for the call of the Gospel. Men and women are called to different functions, are you willing to fulfill your call (See Ephesians 5)? That call will cost you everything but it's worth it!

Ps. Ike Shepardson teaches us how to invite the Holy Spirit to fill us and what happens when we do. See Ephesians 5:15-20.

Intro…Welcome to the Cornerstone Baptist church podcast. My name is Justin Wheeler, I am the preaching pastor for Cornerstone and today we are in week 27 of our journey through the Heidelberg Catechism. Today, I will be talking to you about questions 72-74.Transition…This week, we are still on the subject of baptism and this will be the week when we have to take a major detour from what Heidelberg has to say. As we have worked through the catechism over this year, we have hit a few questions that made us scratch our heads, but on the whole, it has been really helpful, which is why we are working through it as a church.However, from day one I knew we were going to reach a few points along the way where our understanding of certain doctrines would be quite different from what the Heidelberg teaches and today we have finally come to that point. Question 74 asks,Question 74: Are infants also to be baptized?Answer: Yes.But I, and my fellow credobaptist brothers and sisters would answer that question with a clear and resounding, no. It is not newborn babies that we see being baptized in the NT, but only newborn believers in Christ. So, today we are going to briefly address the differences between our position and the paedobaptist position. I am also going to reword question 74 and ask, “Who can be baptized?” But let’s also not skip over questions 72 & 73.Lord’s Day Focus...Question 72: Is then the outward washing with water itself the washing away of sins?Answer: No; for only the blood of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit cleanse us from all sin.Part of the reason this question is necessary is because we often have difficulty with understanding spiritual realities and their connection to physical realities. A few weeks ago I quoted Matthew Henry when he said,“We live in a world of sense, not yet in a world of spirits; and because we therefore find it hard to look above the things that are seen, we are directed in a sacrament to look through them, to those things not seen, which the sacraments represent.” –Matthew Henry[1]I find this idea very compelling because it brings some clarity on why it is hard for us to understand the connection between the physical world and the spiritual world, but it also shows how God has given us these ordinances in order to help us see those connections more clearly.The water of baptism, a physical experience, does not actually wash away and cleanse our hearts from the effects of sin, our spiritual need. Baptism is a sign and symbol of that cleansing but it doesn’t actually work that way.When a person is baptized they are declaring themselves to be united with Jesus. The picture of baptism is one of the individual identifying with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. In this way baptism saves us not because there is magical sin cleansing power in the water but because we are trusting in the work of Christ to cleanse us from sin. Our baptism is an appeal to God that we are trusting in what He has provided to save us from judgment.“The waters of baptism, like the waters of the flood, demonstrate that destruction is at hand, but believers are rescued from these waters in that they are baptized with Christ, who has also emerged from the waters of death through his resurrection (Schreiner).”[2]Baptism is not an exercise of us trusting in the water to cleanse us and save us; it is an exercise of displaying our trust in the Jesus and the Spirit of God to save us and cleanse us.Question 73: Why then does the Holy Spirit call baptism the washing of regeneration and the washing away of sins?Answer: God speaks this way for good reason. He wants to teach us that the blood and Spirit of Christ wash away our sins just as water washes away dirt from our bodies. But more important, He wants to assure us, by this divine pledge and sign, that the washing away of our sins spiritual is as real as physical washing with water.This question and answer are addressing the language that Paul uses in Titus 3 when he writes,Titus 3:4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy SpiritOne of the interesting things to point out from this verse is that water baptism is not mentioned in it. The reason it is so often associated with baptism is the use of the term washing and the general context of the passage. But the main point of this text is not the physical washing of regeneration (new birth) but the work of the Holy Spirit to bring about that new birth in our hearts.The catechism does a great job answering this question and showing the connection between the physical and the spiritual. “The blood and Spirit of Christ wash away our sins just as water washes away dirt from our bodies.”Now, let’s look at the final question of the week and the one that is going to give us a few problems.Question 74: Are infants also to be baptized?Answer: Yes. Infants as well as adults are in God’s covenant and are His people. They, no less than adults, are promised the forgiveness of sin through Christ’s blood and the Holy Spirit who produces faith. Therefore, by baptism, the mark of the covenant, infants should be received into the Christian church and should be distinguished from the children of unbelievers. This was done in the Old Testament by circumcision, which was replaced in the New Testament by baptism.Now, I not only think the question is the wrong question, but I also disagree with the answer itself. Those who hold to a paedobaptist view, do so, because of their understanding of the continuity between the covenant that God made with His people in the Old Testament and the covenant that God has made with His people in the New Testament. They would agree that there are some significant differences between the two covenants and their signs, but they see them as being a continuum.Let me give you a couple of quotes from Stephen Wellum where he works to explain what I’m talking about.The Reformed paedobaptist conception of “the covenant of grace” may be defined in a number of ways, but at its heart it is understood as God’s sovereign gracious choice by which he chooses to save a people for himself by providing sinners life and salvation through the last Adam, the covenantal head of his people, the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as all that is necessary to bring the elect to saving faith by the effectual work of the Holy Spirit.Given that the “covenant of grace” is an organic unity across the ages, this entails—so the argument goes—that the people of God (Israel and the church) are essentially one (in nature and structure), and that the covenant signs (circumcision and baptism) are also essentially one, especially in regard to the spiritual significance of those signs. Furthermore, Reformed paedobaptists argue that since one cannot find any repeal in the NT of the OT command to place the sign of “the covenant of grace” upon covenant children, so the same practice should continue today in the church, given the underlying unity of the covenant across the ages. In a nutshell that is the Reformed covenantal argument for infant baptism.This is a modest framework of support that gives rise to much paedobaptist thinking and if you were to go back and read question 74 again, you would be able to spot some of this in the answer.Reformed covenant theology is very helpful and true in many of its points, but I think it gets this wrong. I think there are significant differences between the Old and New Covenants and that paedobaptists are wrong to see the two on such a strict continuum. This podcast is going to be really long if I go through all the points of disagreement so ill just stick with one and it is one that we have already been talking about; the difference between the spiritual and the physical.The members of the old covenant were distinguished by their physical connection to Abraham. They were descendants, blood relatives, and as such they received the sign of being part of the covenant that God made with Abraham. Circumcision was that sign and oddly enough, only the male children were to receive that sign.But when we come to the new covenant we see that its members are distinguished not by our physical connection but by our spiritual rebirth (John 3).John 3:3“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.Those who are members of the New Covenant, those who are to receive the sign of the New Covenant, are those who have been born again by the Holy Spirit. And that is what we see throughout and exclusively in the New Testament. The gospel is proclaimed, men and women believe in Christ and turn from their sin, and then they are baptized and brought into fellowship with the community of faith.What we are going to see is that at no point is there any deviation from this pattern of baptizing disciples only and from this we must conclude that baptism was only administered to those who gave a credible profession of faith in Christ.A. Acts 2 - The first sermon that was preached after the ascension of Christ is recorded for us in Acts 2. Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and he stands with boldness to proclaim the gospel of Christ and after his sermon we read, “Those who received his word were baptized” (Acts 2:41). They heard the message of Christ, they received/accepted this message for themselves and then they were baptized.B. Acts 8 – The next time we see a group of people being baptized comes in Acts 8:12. In this passage Philip is preaching the gospel in Samaria and this is what we read,But when they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.When they believed they were baptized. So once again faith precedes baptism.C. Acts 10 – Here we see Peter preaching the gospel to those of Cornelius’ household and while he is preaching, the Scriptures say “that the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word.” So everyone who was present and heard the word was filled with the Holy Spirit and they began speaking in tongues, praising God and Peter declares, “Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”The household of Cornelius heard the gospel, they received the Holy Spirit, which was evidence of their conversion[3], and then they were baptized. (See Ephesians 1:13)D. Acts 16 – In this chapter we see two instances of believer’s baptism. The first involves Lydia and the second involves the Philippian jailer. In Lydia’s case we read that Paul came and preached the good news to her and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Him…and after this she was baptized and her household as well.Next comes the jailer (vv. 32-33) who asks Paul what must I do to be saved?Acts 16:31-33 And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.Now there is a phrase in here that I want to address because it has been used by paedobaptists over the years to support the baptizing of infants and it is where we read that Lydia and the jailer’s household was baptized. Paedobaptists argue that it is possible to infer from this phrase that unbelieving children were part of these households and therefore it is safe to assume that the early church practiced infant baptism. The problem with this is that there is no Biblical evidence to support the claim.There is no text in the gospels, the book of Acts, or the epistles which give me warrant to believe that the baptism of anyone other than a converted believer in Christ was the common practice of the early church. Furthermore, if we are to make sense out of these household baptisms then we must let Scripture interpret scripture and we can expect that if an entire household is baptized it is because the entire household believed the gospel, because that is the consistent witness of the NT.[4]And just so we are clear on this issue, Baptists and Presbyterians agree that there is no express command or clear example of infant baptism in the Bible.John Murray (paedobaptist) wrote…One of the most persuasive objections and one which closes the argument for a great many people is that there is no express command to baptize infants and no record in the New Testament of a clear case of infant baptism…The evidence for infant baptism falls into the category of good and necessary inference, and it is therefore quite indefensible to demand that the evidence required must be in the category of express command or explicit instance.[5]I applaud men like Murray for their honesty, but I must question their final conclusion. If the Bible gives us no warrant to believe a proposed doctrine, that doctrine has no credibility. So for me it’s a matter of my conscience being bound to the plain teaching of God’s Word. The consistent witness of the New Testament and the command of Christ is that baptism is only intended for the individual who has received by faith the saving benefits of Christ’s atoning work and become His disciple.So, if I could take the liberty to rephrase question 74, I would ask it this way;Question 74: Who then should be baptized?Answer: Those who, having been born of God’s Spirit, repent of their sins and believe in Jesus Christ for salvation. In other words, only believers should be baptized.There is plenty more that could be said but I hope that this conversation has been helpful to you.Next week we will continue our study of the ordinances and I hope that you will join me again next week as we look at Lord’s Day 28 and questions 75-77.Conclusion…If you want to learn more about Cornerstone Baptist church, you can find us online at Cornerstonewylie.org. You can follow us on Twitter or Instagram @cbcwylie. You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/cornerstonewylie. You can also subscribe to this podcast on iTunes or google play to stay up to date on all the new content.Thanks for listening.[1] Matthew Henry A Puritan Theology pg. 748.[2] Schreiner, Tom NAC Commentary on 1 Peter (Pg. 194)[3] See Eph 1:13[4] It is important to note that those who hold this view of infant baptism do so with a clear conscience and I would not want to have them go against conscience unless they are convicted otherwise by Scripture. But I must do the same and my conscience is clear that the position of Believer’s Baptism is the consistent and plain teaching of the NT.[5] John Murray, Christian Baptism pg. 72 as quoted from Fred Malone, The Baptism of Disciples Alone.

Want your parents and teachers to trust you? Pastor Sara tells us how to earn their trust. See Ephesians 6: 1 through 3!

Dave continued our series looking at Joshua, in particular the taking of Jericho. Commander of the Lords army Joshua 5 v13 - 6. Context The spies have been into Jericho and Rahab has given her proclamation of faith in the Hebrew God. Yahweh. The people of Jericho knew the supernatural work of Yahweh and this melted their hearts. Remember that Jericho was a city of great sinfulness. God was going to bring judgement on the sinful city of Jericho. Phil told us about the consecration the Hebrew men were asked to perform before the battle to enter the Promised land. Man standing with the sword drawn. This is thought to be the appearance of Christ. What intrigued me was the answer to Joshua’s question “ are you for us or for our enemies?” “ Neither”. This didn’t make sense to start with. Surely God is for the Israelites. He has delivered them from Egypt, taken care of them in the desert, promised them the land ahead but this representative of God says neither. What it is saying is now you have been consecrated to the Lord, you are not fighting for yourselves you must choose to be on the side of the Lord of Hosts. We so often think, He is my God. What you can not say to God is here is my plan please bless it. Follow my plan. Keep up with the programme Lord. I started to think of King George VI and his call for prayer before the Dunkirk rescue. God was not on the side of UK and against Germany. We are to choose To be on His side. His side is the side of righteousness and not evil. Whose side have you chosen to be on? This is an important principle. We have to choose sometimes on a daily basis. Like the shepherd we are to follow his voice. “What message do you have for your servant.?” The Lord replies take your sandals off. Shoes, sandals were a symbol bringing the world into the presence of God. He doesn’t say go out with the ark etc. He said get the earthly thoughts out of your mind. Work, leisure, family, sex, sport, Fix your eyes on Jesus. The Lord of hosts. The commander of the army. Then the Lord says to Joshua I have given you victory. Then he gives him the battle plan. The ark is the centre piece of the battle. This is the presence of God, the priests, blowing of the rams horns or shofar. This all speaks of the battle being the Lords. The victory is the Lord’s. He is the commander and strategist. The rams horns was not just a weird thing to do. It was a statement that this is war and His covenant with us. The ark is a statement that the presence of God will accomplish the victory. Once they have done this for seven days they give the shout and the walls fall. What would happen if they only obeyed for 5 days? The Israelites then go in and take the city. This is in accordance with the Lord’s instruction. What do we learn from this? This is like the New Testament teaching that the battle is not against flesh and blood but is in heavenly realms. We are to play our part but only in obedience to the Lord. Ephesians 6 v 10 -> 12. Paul builds up the whole of Ephesians to say that human effort is weak but God’s power is invincible. We see the same in Joshua. Questions 1. What other examples are there of the commander of the Lords army standing in the way with His sword drawn? Look up the story of Balaam and his donkey. 2. Look at the story of Moses and the the burning bush, then Moses and the 10 commandments and see how this fits in with the Commander of the Lords army story. 3. How difficult is it to submit to joining the Lords army and not just asking God to follow our plans? 4. Encourage each other be honest about how fearful you are when we talk about spiritual warfare. Remember we are not putting our head above the parapet but our heads into heavenly realms. See Ephesians. 5. As a church we are looking to see more people come to Christ. Please be specific about who you are praying for. Make a note as a group and see how the Lord honours your prayers. 6. What struggles do you have in concentrating

THE ARRIVAL PRESENCE WORK JESUS OF NAZARETH https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifCWN5pJGIE 20 But if I cast out demons with the finger of God, no doubt the kingdom of God has come upon you. Luke 11 27 They were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, “What is this? What new teaching is this? With authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” Mark 1 15 And having disarmed authorities and powers, He made a show of them openly, triumphing over them by the cross. Colossians 2 8 Whoever practices sin is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was revealed, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 2 29 Suddenly they cried out, saying, “What have we to do with You, Jesus, Son of God? Have You come here to torment us before the time?” Matthew 8 ……The demons also believe and tremble. James 2 When something is much bigger than you, I mean vastly superior to you…its better to get out of the way. RD They had the right to influence, deceive and take the very ground under your feet, satan and demons have gained the rights….by our sin. It’s clear that the darkside just can’t take what they want or possess whoever freely, they must have a legal right….a foothold (Topos Eph. 4). The sad fact is that we humans gave satan the right to rule here by our sin …and we give satan-demons rights to influence/use us when we open even more doors-legal rights to him-them. Who is the prince (archon-ruler) of the power (domain) or the air (atmosphere around-above us) See Ephesians 2…. That spirit who is supernaturally operative in ‘lost’ (unsaved) humanity is the very one who brought us down. Satan owns us when we are lost and can work in the lost his purposes at times. Salvation is the ground of being delivered -set free from satan. We are set free from his ownership, rule, rights and powers when we are born again. Look over this verse well, this is what Jesus does for us when we come to Him and are ‘saved’ (rescued redeemed …new birth Titus3). Colossians 1: 13-14 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and has transferred us into the kingdom of His dear Son, 14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” Jesus is Savior and Lord! This in now God in human flesh, sinless, fully righteous and carrying the full authority of who He is. He didn’t have to gain it, acquire it or do something for it….He owned it (infinitely and eternally) in his very being. He is God, Savior, Lord of all and comes in full authority over everything that is satan-satanic, demonic and fallen. This is why satan sought so hard to bring him down….so Jesus would lose his status, authority, Saviorhood and be defeated. But again, Jesus blew satan out of the water ….and that authority that pours forth from Jesus always has, does and always will. When you think of the person, the presence, the works and the very words of Jesus….this is unlike anyone, anything, anywhere. Jesus is the only begotten and has come to reveal the Father. He has come for the primary purpose as expressed in John 3:16-17, God so loved us and came to save us. That ‘saving’ or redemption includes dealing with the sin issue, satans ownership, death and hell itself. But his coming includes even more…a necessary work, the work (or wielding) at the cross. He is vastly superior than satan….the Infinite person and presence of God against a corrupted fallen finite who has, is and will lose everything.

All praises to THE MOST HIGH YAH in the name of our MELKIZEDEK HIGH PRIESTKING YAHUSHA HA'MASCHIACH.In the POWER of HIS RUACH HA'QODESH.HALLELUYAH!All praises to the MOST HIGH YAHUAH for all HE has done,is doing and will continue to do.HalleluYAH!Praise YAHUAH our ELOHIYM...the ELOHIYM of YASHARA'ELfor the promise of Everlasting Life in and through HIS SON, whom HE gave as a Ransom Sacrifice for us. That whosoever believes in HIM will not perish but have everlasting Life. HalleluYAH!And we know this everlasting Life is through the indwelling of HIS RUACHHA'QODESH who seals us until the Day of Redemption. See Ephesians 4:30HalleluYAH!Praise ye YAH!"Today if you hear HIS voice harden not your heart as in the provocation,and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness, when your fathers temptedme and saw MY works." Psalm 95:8-9ABBA, I bless your name. Thank you for all those who will hear this messageand be pricked in their hearts to choose the promises you have instore for all those who receive and believe in YOUR SON, Our MELKIZEDEK High Priest...KING YAHUSHA HA'MASCHIACH!HALLELUYAH!Praise ye YAH! All praises to the MOST HIGH YAHUAH for all HE has done,is doing and will continue to do.HalleluYAH!Praise YAHUAH our ELOHIYM...the ELOHIYM of YASHARA'ELfor the promise of Everlasting Life in and through HIS SON, whom HE gave as a Ransom Sacrifice for us. That whosoever believes in HIM will not perish but have everlasting Life. HalleluYAH!And we know this everlasting Life is through the indwelling of HIS RUACHHA'QODESH who seals us until the Day of Redemption. See Ephesians 4:30HalleluYAH!Praise ye YAH!"Today if you hear HIS voice harden not your heart as in the provocation,and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness, when your fathers temptedme and saw MY works." Psalm 95:8-9ABBA, I bless your name. Thank you for all those who will hear this messageand be pricked in their hearts to choose the promises you have instore for all those who receive and believe in YOUR SON, Our MELKIZEDEK High Priest...KING YAHUSHA HA'MASCHIACH!HALLELUYAH!Praise ye YAH!

FixerUpperMarriage.org/fences 3 Reasons to Put Up Fences in Your Marriage Proverbs 25:28, “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” What Can a Fence Do for a Fixer Upper? A fence can clarify your property lines between yourself and your neighbor, and add beauty to a property. For example, a wrought iron or a picket fence. It can provide privacy for things like a pool, to hide an air conditioner, or just to keep out nosy neighbors. Fences are also great at protecting from unwanted people and animals. They can even keep out criminals who would take things. You could put up a fence around your garden to keep out animals. Fences could be used to keep things in like pets and children. What Can a Fence Do for your Marriage? Poet Robert Frost once wrote a poem entitled Mending Wall in which he made famous the saying,” Good fences make good neighbors.” The poem invokes a philosophical question as to why we have fences. Why don’t we share what we have with others? He was walking with his neighbor helping him mend the wall between them and he basically asks, “Why is this fence here?” I think the point is, we should let people into our lives, even though it opens up to risk. Clearly, there are some fences that we should not have. However, there are some things in your marriage that absolutely NEED fencing in. And these things are critical to your personal health and the health of your marriage 3 Reasons to Put Up Fences in Your Marriage 1. To Clarify Your Individual Responsibility So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. Romans 14:12 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. II Corinthians 5:10 Marriage does not dissolve individual responsibility. Two lives becoming one, means two individual lives combine to create an incredible God-inspired union. But you are still responsible for you. You are responsible for your walk with the Lord. You are responsible for your actions and their consequences. God will hold you accountable for you! Marriage does not transfer individual responsibility. You have a responsibility to God and your spouse to fulfill your Biblical role in marriage. (See Ephesians 5:21-33) God has made the standard for husbands and wives. You are responsible for you. And generally speaking your accountability ends with you. (The fence) For example, I am responsible as a husband for being the spiritual leader in my home, but I am not responsible for my wife’s walk with the Lord. I can help her, but not make her. You are not responsible for the behavior of your spouse, but you are responsible for yours. For example, if your spouse flies into a fit of rage, you don’t have to do the same thing. Don’t enable your spouse by taking those consequences for them. The following are some verbal examples for following ...

How many seeds (opportunities) have we thrown away because we didn't acknowledge the seed as an opportunity? I pray this episode will help you look at natural and spiritual seeds as opportunities. God blessed you with so much good to give in this world; don't waste it. (See Ephesians 2:10 for encouragement).

Paul, the Apostle once stated, “We are a masterpiece created by God to do the things He planned for us long ago.” (See Ephesians 2:10) God, the Creator has crafted you to accomplish something that He carefully planned for you to do. You were made for this mission. There is nothing in life you would enjoy more. You now have two choices. Like many, you can default into self-absorption and ineffectiveness. Or you can discover your reason for existence and live life with divine destiny and fulfillment. These only two possibilities should be enough for you to ask the question, What On Earth Are You Doing!

Paul, the Apostle once stated, “We are a masterpiece created by God to do the things He planned for us long ago.” (See Ephesians 2:10) God, the Creator has crafted you to accomplish something that He carefully planned for you to do. You were made for this mission. There is nothing in life you would enjoy more. You now have two choices. Like many, you can default into self-absorption and ineffectiveness. Or you can discover your reason for existence and live life with divine destiny and fulfillment. These only two possibilities should be enough for you to ask the question, What On Earth Are You Doing!

Paul, the Apostle once stated, “We are a masterpiece created by God to do the things He planned for us long ago.” (See Ephesians 2:10) God, the Creator has crafted you to accomplish something that He carefully planned for you to do. You were made for this mission. There is nothing in life you would enjoy more. You now have two choices. Like many, you can default into self-absorption and ineffectiveness. Or you can discover your reason for existence and live life with divine destiny and fulfillment. These only two possibilities should be enough for you to ask the question, What On Earth Are You Doing!

Paul, the Apostle once stated, “We are a masterpiece created by God to do the things He planned for us long ago.” (See Ephesians 2:10) God, the Creator has crafted you to accomplish something that He carefully planned for you to do. You were made for this mission. There is nothing in life you would enjoy more. You now have two choices. Like many, you can default into self-absorption and ineffectiveness. Or you can discover your reason for existence and live life with divine destiny and fulfillment. These only two possibilities should be enough for you to ask the question, What On Earth Are You Doing!

Sunday, June 10, 2018 -- Sermon Questions -- Series: Real Christianity “THE MIND OF CHRIST” 1. When the Holy Spirit brings conviction to a person’s soul, what are the three options a person has? (Also discuss the difference between Judas and Peter.) 2. What is a real sign that a person is truly born-again? (See Ephesians 4:30.) 3. Read Ephesians 4:21-24. A. What is the old man or nature? What is the believer to do with the old man or nature? Are you doing this? B. Read Philippians 2:12. How does it apply to Ephesians 4:21-24? 4. How many different kinds of minds are there? 5. Read 1 Corinthians 2:13-16. A. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? B. Read again 1 Corinthians 2:14. What are the implications of this verse? 6. How much do you on a daily basis (really) read the bible / pray and just spend time with God? What does this say about your priorities?

This goes out to all the people who haven't turned their backs on God. And it goes out to all the people who may have, but who still want to get it right. God loves us all. See Ephesians 1:7. http://insharonsheart.blogspot.com/2017/12/covered-by-god.html?m=1

God is with you. And we We know certain things in life are challenging, He’s still there for us. So we must stay centered on keeping Christ first in our life no matter how difficult things get. At some point in everybody's life, struggle will come and no one is immune. Life will happen to every soul on this earth. That's a fact and since that's the case, then why not have a companion by our side every second of the day? Doesn't it make sense to do that? See Ephesians 2:10.

Can't a be a Christian and hate God's people?! Strong words! But Jesus speaks of a judgment at the end of the Tribulation period that teaches just that. People will be judged based on their treatment of the Jews. So this is the final lesson on the Olivet Discourse. This study started in Episode 5, with the Jews fully and finally rejecting Jesus. Jesus then told them that He would not return to the Temple until they welcomed Him back. His strong words led the disciples to ask three questions: When will these things be? What will be the sign of your coming? What will be the sign of the end of the age? Jesus answered these questions. He gave specific signs for each. In the last episode, we learned what will happen to Jews who reject Jesus. In today's episode, Jesus will focus His words on the judgment of gentiles, or non-Jews. Your Takeaway A believer must have the right attitude about the Jewish people. Judgment of the Nations Matthew 25:31-33 Jesus sets up His throne, most likely the Throne of David, and begins to sort people into two groups - the sheep and the goats A word to help us understand this passage is "nations" in verse 32. In this verse, the word "nations" means "gentiles."  Joel 3:1-3 Both Joel 3 and Matthew 25 are speaking about the same event. Joel tells us more about the judgment. God judges the gentiles based on their treatment of the Jewish people. The Valley of Jehoshaphat could be the valley created when the Mount of Olives is split in two. Zechariah 14:4 In Matthew 25, what makes a sheep a sheep or a goat a goat? Are the Jews sheep and the gentiles goats? No. Both sheep and goats are gentiles. Here are three things to consider. Both sheep and goats are gentiles. People are sorted into these groups based on how they treated the Jewish people during the Tribulation period. They are condemned based on whether they are saved or not. So the first consideration comes from the correct understanding of the Joel passage and the Matthew passage. There is a key word in Matthew 25:40 that helps us understand. That word is "brethren" or "brothers". When Jesus uses "brethren" He means Jews. The Jewish people are His brothers. Jesus does not set up the throne to judge His brothers. He set up the throne to judge gentiles. The second consideration is that Jesus divided the gentiles based on how they treated the Jews. Look again at Matthew 25:35-40. All the wonderful things done for Jesus were actually done for the Jews.  The third consideration is that people are never saved based on their deeds. They are saved based on the grace of God. See Ephesians 2:8-9. Note how in Matthew 25:37 Jesus refers to the sheep as "righteous". Believers have the righteousness of Christ. This righteousness is applied to a person when they believe on Jesus.  Self Evaluation What is your attitude toward the Jewish people? Are you pro- or anti-Semitic? If you hate the Jewish people then you are in error. The Bible teaches three important facts about the Jews. The Jews are God's people. Look at Deuteronomy 7:6-8 God has promised to bless people who bless the Jews. See Genesis 12:2-3 Salvation comes from the Jews. Read John 4:22 I know that most Jews today are secular. I know that most do not believe the Bible, even the Old Testament. I know that some Jews, like all nationalities, do bad things. But none of that removes our responsibility. We are to love the Jewish people. And believers should be witnessing to the Jewish people. Closing Thoughts This study on the Olivet Discourse has focused on three things. I have repeatedly stressed the right relationship toward the Jewish people. That was a feature of this episode, episode 14, and episode 6. I have frequently asked you to share Jesus with your friends, neighbors, and loved ones. I hope you have done so. Time could be running out. I have shared the truth of Jesus with those who do not believe. I told you at the beginning of this study that I am a reluctant end-times preacher. I get no joy in it other than this - Jesus is coming again. For those who do not believe, the return of Jesus means judgment. For those who believe, His return means salvation. I hope you are one of the saved. I hope you have put your faith in Jesus. If not there is still time. Stop what you are doing at this moment and sit down in a quiet place. Share your heart with God. Ask God to show you your sin. Ask God to forgive you your sin. If you believe on Jesus - that He died for your sin and rose again - share that with God. Look at Romans 6:23. This verse teaches two important points. 1) The wages of sin is death. That means left to ourselves, our plans, our methods, it all leads to death. And not just any death, but eternal death or hell. 2) But the gift of God is eternal life. Eternal live is in Jesus Christ our Lord. Stop trusting in your ways. Those only lead to death. Trust in Jesus. Choose eternal life. Choose Jesus. Sign Up & Subscribe Sign up for our show notes. When you sign up, you receive an email notification and a copy of the show notes whenever a new episode is released. Just CLICK HERE and sign up today! Subscribe to Faith in the Valley. You can subscribe at iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher Radio, TuneIn, and many other podcast apps. And we are now on iHeartRadio! Subscribing on one of these apps is the best way to listen. If you live in a country that tries to block Christian podcasts, here is a link to our RSS feed. You may be able to use our RSS to get the podcast. Finally, feel free to contact us with any question. You can contact us by clicking HERE or going to www.wakefieldbible.org/contact-us/. I would especially love to hear from you if you believed on Jesus. 

II Corinthians 4:1-15 II Corinthians 4:1 – See Ephesians 3:4-9; 6:12. Heavenly places is referring to places of power (rulers on earth…

è Review: The House of Prayer; the Heart (purpose) of Prayer; the Partnership with the Father; the Agenda to render prayer powerless (orphan, distant view) Psalm 139; Ephesians 1:3-7; Hebrews 13:5; John 17:23, 26 è The Revelation of His Authority (Philippians 2:9-11; Ephesians 1:18-23; Colossians 2:14, 15 • Matthew 28:18-20 …. Revelation of authority before assignment (Luke 10:17, 19; Mark 16:17) è FAITH: Authority Released …. Mark 11:22-25 • Practical coaching • Align (connect) and Enforce. Remember: you are connected to the Kingdom of God. In prayer, you are invading the kingdom of darkness. In Christ, you have the authority but must Connect (commit the issue to His Lordship) and, then, Engage the issue (Proclaim). There is ground to be taken! • More examples of ground to be taken or defended:  Inner atmosphere of mind, emotions  Home atmosphere; work atmosphere  Travel; lodging • Is this overboard? See Ephesians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6 • See Matthew 16:13-19 Examples: Where are you broken? Where is the need, adverse situations, struggle, desires? • Recognize and commit it totally to Him. • Proclaim the promises (authority) of His Word over the situation. • Trust Him with the results. è Covering Prayer: What is it? The prayers of spiritual oversight or prayer partners on your behalf. • The heart of the matter: shepherding; watching over another (feeding, leading, encouraging, protecting) è Examples: Old Testament priests and prophets were often consulted, even by kings in difficult life situations; Jesus (John 17); Paul repeatedly in his letters to churches and pastors; John in John 3:2 è Revelation; protection; deeper personal knowledge of Him; health; prosperity; well-being; spiritual transfer of gifting and power. è Are you under spiritual covering??? (1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13; Hebrews 13:16, 17) è Impartation to you! (See Revelation 1:5, 6)

Sermon Questions 1. What are the different kinds of jerks? What kind of jerk are you? 2. Read Philippians1:15-18. Who were the jerks that Paul had to deal with? What were they saying about him? 3. What was the lie of those “jerk” preachers that Paul was dealing with? How old is this lie? (I.e., talk about Job and look at Job 4:7, 8:3, 11:16.) Are we still dealing with this lie today? 4. Read 2 Timothy 3:10-13. What truth are these verses giving us? 5. Why will the true followers of Jesus suffer? (See Ephesians 6:10-12.) 6. Why does Satan go after the Spirit-filled believer? 7. What is one of the main ways Satan attacks the Spirit-filled believer? 8. Do you see Satan attacking you? 9. What is the best way to deal with jerks? Talk about the 3 ways of disarming jerks. (See Philippians 1:17-18 and Psalm 26:4.)

I Corinthians 7:17-38 I Corinthians 7:19 – See Ephesians 2:8. There are two parts to man's salvation. Providing the means for salvation is…

“WHAT CONTROLS YOU?” 1. How are your relationships? Really? 2. Do you see yourself as God’s masterpiece? (See Ephesians 2:10 and Romans 8:29) 3. Read 1 Peter1:6-7. What is Peter’s point? What does this mean for the believer? 4. Read Ephesians 5:18. What does it mean to be Spirit-filled or controlled? What misunderstanding do many Christians have with respect to being Spirit-filled or controlled? (i.e. Jimmy Swaggart and Sampson) 5. When you die will you have titles or testimonies? What impresses God? (i.e. think about the disciples) 6. What changed the disciples from ordinary men to extra-ordinary men? (See Acts 1:4-8) 7. Look at Ephesians 5:18 again. There are two kinds of people, what are they? Which one are you?

Sunday, March 6, 2016 -- Sermon Questions “Wise or Unwise?” 1. Up to this point in your life, have you lived wisely or unwisely? (See Ephesians 5:15-17) 2. Read Ephesians 5:3-7. Why is the unbeliever unwise? 3. What makes being sexually immoral unwise? (See 1 Corinthians 6:15-20) 4. What is impurity? (See Ephesians 5:3) Why is engaging in it make you unwise? 5. What does it mean to be greedy? (See Ephesians 5:3) Why does being greedy make you unwise? (See also 1 Timothy 6:6-8 and Ecclesiastes 2:21-26) 6. Read Ephesians 5:6. What are the implications for the unwise person? Can a believer practice sexual immorality, impurity and being greedy? (See also 1 John 3:4-10) 7. Read Ephesians 5:10. Who is the wise person? 8. Read Ephesians 5:15-18. How does a person please the Lord? 9. Read Galatians 2:20. Why is the verse so important when it comes to being filled with the Holy Spirit? 10. What is the difference between “bad emotions and good emotions”?

Review of the God-Head’s ministry to you. Romans 8:26 .... The Spirit’s work IN you now. Romans 8:27 .... The Son’s work FOR you now. Romans 8:28 .... The Father’s work for you, internal and external. He loves you and is intimately involved in every detail of your life. Romans 8:29, 30 .... He foreknew you .... He preset a destination for you (to know Him intimately and be transformed into His character and likeness. (2 Corinthians 3:18) (this is not a robotic, fatalistic dynamic) (2 rails on a theological track) He called you His son, daughter and issued a call to Himself. He justified you .... Declared you not guilty in His eyes. He is glorifying you .... Transforming you into His likeness. Predestination All of us are on a journey in our understanding. Spiritual understanding comes from the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit vs. the efforts of the mind. He preset a destination to transform and conform us into the image of His Son .... That means we will be delivered into the glorious liberty of being a child of God! An heir and a joint heir! Sovereignty vs. manipulation Ultimate control vs. robotic performance. A Perfect God perfectly accomplishing His plan, with imperfect people! God is so Big and so Powerful, He can and does use even the enemies’ schemes again them. God is so Big and so Powerful, He can and does factor in all of my choices into the story He is telling in my life. That story brings Him glory, works for my good, and encourages, counsels, and brings hope to others in a similar lifestruggle as He brought me through. (My pain will become my platform.) Romans 8:31, 32 .... He is FOR you! See Ephesians 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3, 4

Series: The Book of Ephesians-- Sermon Questions – 1/10/16 “A Prayer that Gets God’s Attention” 1. What do you tend to pray for? 2. Read Ephesians 3:14-16. What is Paul praying for the believer to have? Why is it necessary? (i.e. Think about how a person can really change, or get patience or self-control. See Galatians 5:22-23.) 3. Read Ephesians 3:17. What is Paul saying here? Where does strong faith come from? (i.e. Read Matthew 14:22-32. Why does Peter’s faith fail?) 4. Read Philippians 4:13. What does Paul mean by this statement? What are the practical ramifications? (i.e. See Ephesians 5:18-31.) 5. Read Ephesians 3:18-19. What is Paul praying for the believer here? Why is this so important for the believer? The Bethlehem Community Church Office Team “Love God, Love Others. Make Disciples!”

Series: The Book of Ephesians Sermon Questions -- 9/13/2015 “The Greatest Company in the World” 1. When you think of the church, do you think of it as great? Why or why not? 2. What did you think of the Pastor’s conversation on this airplane with “Me MBA”? 3. Read Matthew 16:13-19. What do these verses tell you about the church? 4. What is the church? (See Ephesians 2:19-22) 5. What does the church have that no one else in this world can offer people? (I.e., talk about Jesus – John 14:6, 8:34-36 & Ephesians 2:19-22; and Purpose – Matthew 4:19 and Hope.)

Paul gives us an insight into how he prayed for the church of Christ and in doing so, offers us a model to use when praying for our churches. See Ephesians 1:15....

II Timothy 1:3-13 II Timothy 1:9 – See Ephesians 1:1-9; Titus 1:1-3. God planned for our salvation from the beginning. It's not that we are…

REBUILDING INTIMACY WITH GOD HEBREWS 3:12 – HEBREWS 4:11 JULY 20, 2014  Review  How Did I Lose Intimacy With God (Hebrews 2:1)  Steps to rebuilding Intimacy with God.  Come as you are …. He will meet you where you are!  Invest in the Relationship  Listening (without judging or defending self)  Talking …. Repeating their words …. Affirming their value  Connecting with others in spiritual family  Renewing Your Vows …. The Lord’s Table …. Holy Communion Reconnect with His Lordship over your life Reapply The Covenant Benefits, demonstrated through Communion  The Lord’s Table …. A Powerful Act Of Impartation!  Jesus’ passionate desire …. Luke 22:15  A mandate for all disciples …. 1 Corinthians 11:23-29  Discerning the Lord’s Body …. 1 Corinthians 11:29 …. Not a ritual …. A connection with every commitment and benefit bought by His broken body and shed blood!  Sick? (Matthew 8:16, 17; 1 Peter 2:24)  Under oppression, attack …. 1 Corinthians 11:26 (proclaim the Lord’s death, which breaks their power! (See Ephesians 3:10; Ephesians 6:12; Colossians 2:13-15)  Desiring Blessing? (1 Corinthians 10:16, 17)  Communion (koinonia) means Partnership, participation, active, intimate involvement! Steve Franklin Ministries® P. O. BOX 43331 * BIRMINGHAM, AL 35243 www.sfmin.com * info@sfmin.com  Copyright©2014 Covenant Heirs International/Steve Franklin Ministries®. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

God created you and I, for "His good pleasure." for us, to show forth the goodness of God in the earth.  We are His dear children, to dwell in him and He in us, for the fulfilling of the plans He has for you. See Ephesians 1:5 and 2 Thessalonians 1:11 Other scriptures referenced: John 10:10 ". . . I am come that they might have life, and that they might have [it] more abundantly." Hebrews 11:6 ". . . for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." Proverbs 9:10 and Psalm 111:10 "The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: . . . " 1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." Matthew 11:29 "Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."  

In this lesson, Carson looks back at the whole of Salvation History to better understand God's purpose for Israel, which is to be a light to the nations. Ultimately, this purpose is fulfilled in Jesus, who recapitulates Israel in his own person and mission. Due to his redemptive work upon Calvary (wherein he takes upon himself the curses of the Mosaic Covenant), the separation between Israel and the other nations is obliterated (See Ephesians 2:11-22). Jesus has made it possible for all of humanity to stand on equal footing in the covenant family of God, and so the Catholic Church - which is that family - incorporates both Israelites and Gentiles equally. "The nations" in Hebrew is goyim. In Greek, it is ethnos. In Latin, it is gentilis. We use the English term "Gentiles" to refer to all of those nations other than the nation of Israel, and in most all English translations of the New Testament, the Greek word ethnos is translated as "Gentile." There is no need now for those ceremonial precepts as dictated by the Mosaic Law. Those precepts or commands served a temporary (albeit over a long period of time) purpose: to root out idolatry from the heart of Israel and to separate Israel from the Gentiles so as to rehabilitate Israel. God knew that Israel could not be ultimately be rehabilitated unless God gave this firstborn son of his a new heart (See Deuteronomy 30:1-8), and so the Law revealed Israel's sinfulness, showing Israel that it could not be holy without the gift of grace. Jesus Christ fulfills the message of the Prophets - especially Isaiah - by bringing about the possibility of worldwide blessing to all the families/nations of the earth as promised to Abraham in Genesis 22:18. His work of redemption results in the gift of the Holy Spirit, that grace Israel needed from the beginning to live in right relationship with its covenant bridegroom: the Lord God. Plus, in order to restore all 12 tribes under the Messiah, the Gentiles must be incorporated, for the lost tribes of Israel are now indistinguishable from the Gentiles. When the Gospel goes out to the Gentiles, it is not going out just to non-Israelites, but to Israelites as well who have lost their national identity.