Podcasts about series god

#sermon #church #sundaysermon #godsdesign #colliervillefirstbaptist Sunday Sermon | June 21, 2026 | Dr. Chuck HerringCheck out our weekly devotionals related to this weeks' sermon!https://cfbcfamily.org/sermon-devotions/

Series: God... I have a question? Psalm 19:1-4 Mattie Kahn June 21, 2026

Series: God... I have a question? Micah 6:1-8 Mike Bellanti June 14, 2026

Series: God... I have a question? 1 Kings 19, Psalm 42 Mike Bellanti June 7, 2026

Series: God... I have a question. Psalm 13 Mike Bellanti May 31, 2026

Author and poet Tanner Olson joins us to share his family’s journey through unexplained infertility and the heartache it brought. Out of that season of grief came unexpected joy—the gift of adoption and the arrival of his son. Tanner reflects on the role of prayer in holding both sorrow and hope, and the childlike wonder he’s learning from his little boy. Guest’s Links YouTube: @tannerJolsonFacebook: @writtentospeak Instagram: @writtentospeak Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4p3cPZC ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Series: God... I have a question. John 14:1-14 Jon Mahlstedt May 24, 2026

Are you the type of person who looks at the little you have and wonders how it could help anyone? Or do you just feel overwhelmed by the needs of the world that you tend to put things: out of sight, out of mind? Well, in today’s study, Mark will be reminding us God’s not asking you alone to solve all of the world’s problems, but He is looking for someone willing to be used for His purposes. Become part of our Advance Team: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/moodypresents/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we continue our powerful series, CHRIST in me, on the Holy Spirit with Week 4: “The Gifts of the Spirit – God's Power Through You.” Over the past few weeks, we discovered that the Holy Spirit does not just change what you do—He changes who you are. He forms the character of Jesus inside of us. But next week, we shift from character… to power. Because the Holy Spirit does not only work in you—He wants to work through you. God has given spiritual gifts to His church to encourage people, strengthen faith, bring healing, and reveal His presence in powerful ways. This message will help you understand how the Holy Spirit empowers ordinary believers to make an extraordinary difference. Come hungry for more of God and invite someone to join you. We believe God wants to move powerfully in our church. 

This sermon was preached by Oliver Linley at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 17th of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Depth in a Digital AgeScripture: Psalm 119:37‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

This sermon was preached by Oliver Linley at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 17th of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Depth in a Digital AgeScripture: Psalm 119:37‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

Series: God... I have a question. various scriptures Paul Kepes May 17, 2026

Series: God's Unlikely SpokesmanService: Sun PMType: Bible ClassSpeaker: Terry SlackWe finish our look at the 3rd sermon of Amos and begin a study of the 5 visions that folow in Amos 7--9.

Welcome to Moody Presents with Mark Jobe … president of Moody Bible Institute and senior pastor of New Life Community Church in Chicago. Many people are feeling overwhelmed today for a variety of reasons … work, sickness, juggling the kids, our home lives and … school. But in spite of what’s going on around us, there is hope in Jesus! Today’s message is titled, God Has a Plan and it’s a lesson from the book of John, chapter 6. Become part of our Advance Team: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/moodypresents/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sermon: The Crucifixion: They Saw But Did They Believe? Series: God's Perfect Servant Speaker: Ptr. Nathan Tee Scripture: Mark 15:21-47 Recounting the story of the cross does not guarantee salvation, for even those who witnessed Jesus' crucifixion were not instantly saved. This Sunday, Pastor Nathan Tee reminds us that salvation comes not by knowing, but by faith and believing what Christ has accomplished. Sermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QvmN6cQskqrKwdQJDO2VI2GVGSGbRe6c/view?usp=drive_link On our website: https://cbcp.org/blog/2026/05/10/the-crucifixion-they-saw-but-did-they-believe/ Join a Life Group: https://cbcp.org/lifegroups Find an event: https://cbcp.org/events Learn how to give: https://cbcp.org/giving Website: https://cbcp.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/cbcponline YouTube: https://youtube.com/cbcponline Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cbcponline Instagram: https://instagram.com/cbcponline

Sermon: Si Christ ay Nag Suffer at Namatay Para sa Akin—So What Am I Living For? Series: God's Perfect Servant Speaker: Ptr. Allan Rillera Scripture: Mark 15:21-47 Inako ni Kristo ang pagdurusa — ang sakit, pagtanggi, at kamatayan — na dapat ay para sa atin. Dahil sa Kanyang sakripisyo, naibigay sa atin ang kaligtasan at ang pag-asa ng buhay na walang hanggan. Ngayong Linggo, hinihikayat tayo ni Pastor Allan Rillera na mabuhay para kay Kristo, sumunod sa Kanya nang buong puso, at tuparin ang Kanyang layunin sa ating buhay. In our place, Christ endured suffering, bearing the pain, rejection, and death that we deserved. Through His sacrifice, we have salvation and the hope of eternal life. This Sunday, Pastor Allan Rillera urges us to live for Christ, follow Him steadfastly, and fulfill His purpose for our lives. Sermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PTxkfOT4KB-oOGt9h2lnbkPkJIY_aApX/view?usp=drive_link On our website: https://cbcp.org/blog/2026/05/10/si-christ-ay-nag-suffer-at-namatay-para-sa-akin-so-what-am-i-living-for/ Join a Life Group: https://cbcp.org/lifegroups Find an event: https://cbcp.org/events Learn how to give: https://cbcp.org/giving Website: https://cbcp.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/cbcponline YouTube: https://youtube.com/cbcponline Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cbcponline Instagram: https://instagram.com/cbcponline

Sun. May 10, 2026Pastor Mike Stanley continues the "Making Sense of Life" series with "God, Our Deliverer" from Exodus 12:21-32Join us for worship onsite & online at 10:00 A.M.Huron Chapel Evangelical Missionary Church, Auburn, Ontario http://huronchapel.com

This sermon was preached by Stephen van Rhyn at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 10th of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Connection in a Digital AgeScripture: Genesis 1:26-28, 2:1-3, 2:15-25‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

This sermon was preached by Stephen van Rhyn at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 10th of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Connection in a Digital AgeScripture: Genesis 1:26-28, 2:1-3, 2:15-25‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

Series: God... I have a question. Matthew 4:18-20 Mike Bellanti May 10, 2026

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Will you trust God with your future family?"Scripture: Genesis 24:1-67 NIV Hebrews 11:9-13Bottom line: When we rest in God's promises, Grace finds us.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTOUTLINECONCLUSIONDISCUSSION QUESTIONSNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTIONMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. Bottom line: When we rest in God's promises, Grace finds us.OPENING STORYI find myself thinking more and more about the future. Between caring for our aging parents, supporting our kids and grandkids, and taking our health and finances seriously so that we minimize our burden on our kids, we're thinking more and more about the future. And when you do that it's tempting to become anxious and to try to do things without trusting the Lord by taking control where we should surrender to the Lord. This is common but not wise. Today I want to challenge us with this question: Can you trust God with your future family? Can I? Will I?My bottom line for today is this: When we trust in God's promises, grace finds us.What promises?For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son...(John 3:16)For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life...(Romans 6:23)If you confess with our mouth, Jesus is Lord, and believe in our heart, God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. (Romans 10:9-13)I'm preparing a place for you (John 14)I'm coming back. (Various)Are you resting in God's promises? If you are, your life will look different. Your journey will be richer and more satisfying and will lead to life everlasting where the best is yet to come!CONTEXTAbraham is old. (140) Sarah is dead. (Genesis 23) Isaac is 40. Unmarried. No kids/grandkids. God's promise that his descendants will be more than the stars in the sky and the sand on the sea shore is hard to believe at this point. Yet, Abraham is resolved to see this through. He will show that as he trusts God with the future of his family. He trusts God to keep his promise. And this affects his journey--how he will live in light of those promises. OUTLINEI. Abraham trusts God with the future. (24:1-9)II. The servant trusts God with the process. (24:10-27)III. Rebekah trusts God with courage. (24:28-61)IV. Isaac trusts God to provide. (24:62-67)CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we rest in God's promises, Grace finds us.When you look to the future, how can you best trust God's promises?You believe and receive God's promises starting with the most important promise. "If you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."Have you done that? Have you crossed that line of faith regarding your future here and now, as well as, in the hereafter? Turn from your wicked ways to a Savior who forgives and forgets. Who is preparing a place for you where the best is yet to come.Believe and receive the Lord Jesus Christ today!In Jesus' name,AmenPrayQuestions (Write this down) - grab an index card and penWhat is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?Write this down on the index card in the seat pockets.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: God's Unlikely SpokesmanService: Sun PMType: Bible ClassSpeaker: Terry SlackWe look at Amos' third and final sermon. Here the prophet changes tactics in hopes of bringing at least a remnant back to the Lord.

Sermon: What Will You Do With Jesus? Series: God's Perfect Servant Speaker: Rev. Jared Co Scripture: Mark 15:1-20 Jesus remained silent during His trial, enduring false accusations and the crowd's demand that He be traded for a convicted murderer. This Sunday, Rev. Jared Co shares how Jesus, in His humility, set aside His power as the King of Kings and bore the judgment and condemnation that each of us deserves." Sermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15QfkK51R1oC3EFU6BPW0u8hma5Ac9Kqa/view?usp=drive_link On our website: https://cbcp.org/blog/2026/05/03/what-will-you-do-with-jesus/ Join a Life Group: https://cbcp.org/lifegroups Find an event: https://cbcp.org/events Learn how to give: https://cbcp.org/giving Website: https://cbcp.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/cbcponline YouTube: https://youtube.com/cbcponline Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cbcponline Instagram: https://instagram.com/cbcponline

This sermon was preached by Mike Hampton at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 3rd of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Wisdom in the Digital AgeScripture: Proverbs 3:13-15‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

This sermon was preached by Mike Hampton at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 3rd of May 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Wisdom in the Digital AgeScripture: Proverbs 3:13-15‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

Sermon: 你會否認耶穌嗎? Would You Disown Jesus? Series: 神完美的僕人 God's Perfect Servant Speaker: 張國強牧師 Rev. Jeremiah Cheung Scripture: 馬可福音 Mark 14:66-72 Translated to English by Deacon Daniel Go 耶穌在被暴民逮捕前，曾要求門徒在客西馬尼園警醒禱告，因為祂明白，他們僅憑人的力量，不足以應付即將到來的試煉。本週日，張國強牧師告誡我們切勿過於自滿，因為倚靠自己的力量，可能會導致我們辜負了主。 Jesus asked His disciples to keep watch and pray in the Garden of Gethsemane before the mob came for Him because their human strength would not be enough for the trials ahead. This Sunday, Rev. Jeremiah Cheung warns us against overconfidence, as relying on our own strength may lead us to fail the Lord. Sermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cQjjolQihnW99xwGKZV1eBMX6aWlWPqc/view?usp=drive_link On our website: https://cbcp.org/blog/2026/04/26/would-you-disown-jesus/ Join a Life Group: https://cbcp.org/lifegroups Find an event: https://cbcp.org/events Learn how to give: https://cbcp.org/giving Website: https://cbcp.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/cbcponline YouTube: https://youtube.com/cbcponline Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cbcponline Instagram: https://instagram.com/cbcponline

Author and artist Ruth Chou Simons joins Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer to share her journey of faith, from immigrating to the U.S. as a young girl to raising six boys while writing and creating art that points others to Christ. Ruth opens up about the struggles of striving for approval and how she discovered freedom in God’s grace. Guest’s Links YouTube: @RuthChouSimonsFacebook: @ruthchousimons Instagram: @ruthchousimons Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4ohxdVK ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

He is Series - God of Reconstruction - When Life Feels Like It's Falling Apart, God Is Rebuilding You Ezekiel 36:36 “ Then the nations that are left all around you shall know that I, the Lord, have rebuilt the ruined places, and replanted that which was desolate; I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will do it.” I was planning to finish the He Is Series today, on the 30th day, with the name King of Kings. I thought that was a great way to complete the series. However, my good friend Rosa, who reads the Spanish translation, had a vision, and He said to her, “I am a God of Reconstruction.” I knew after hearing about her vision that we needed to include this in our series. How many of us could use a God of Reconstruction right now? Let me share her vision with you first so you know what we are talking about. Here is what she said, “I had a vision. The Lord showed me that we were looking at ruins and rubble. We were dwelling on the destruction , desolation, and calamity. The Lord said: I'm a God of reconstruction!! I am actively using periods of brokenness or "rubble" to rebuild you to be stronger and more purpose-driven. I restore broken lives, hearts, people, families, marriages, and nations. With my restoring power, I rebuild, reconcile, and bring new life out of ruins. I don't just fix broken parts; I rebuild from the ground up, making the new creation stronger, wiser, and more radiant. The ultimate goal of this reconstruction is for you to become more like Me, to remove the old construction that is no longer needed.” Wow, how many of us needed to hear that today? How many of us needed to hear that God was using this time of brokenness to rebuild us and make us stronger? How many of us feel broken right now? We are struggling with health. We feel like God has just walked away from us since we feel so broken. Yet, here God is saying, “I am using this time to make you stronger.” He has not abandoned you. He has not left you to fend for yourself. He has not forgotten about you. He is with you in this illness, and He can use even this to make you stronger. The same is true for those of us who might be healthy, but we are struggling with money problems, family problems, work issues, whatever it may be. God is telling us that even in this time of brokenness in our families, He can work to make us stronger.  I know it doesn't look that way. What it often looks like is a mess. It looks like we are in this alone, and we can't seem to get out of it. It often looks like everything is falling down around us, and we might get buried. Let's look at the analogy of a house being renovated. When a house is being renovated, it often looks worse before it looks better. Walls are torn down, things are messy, and it can feel like everything is falling apart. But the builder isn't destroying the house—he's rebuilding it so it's stronger, safer, and more beautiful than before. In this vision, the Lord even said, “I don't just fix broken parts; I rebuild from the ground up, making the new creation stronger, wiser, and more radiant.” What we are going through is hard and messy, and we all wish we could skip it. However, what if even this hard part can be used by God to help us become a new creation? What if the walls that are being torn down are our walls of self-reliance? What if the walls we built to protect ourselves are not only keeping us from getting hurt but also keeping out all the light and love? What if even the painful parts we're going through right now can be used to break down our pride so we can be humble and accept the Lord's help? The last line in her vision said, “The ultimate goal of this reconstruction is for you to become more like Me, to remove the old construction that is no longer needed.” I wonder how different our suffering would be if we knew this statement were true? Would it make your difficult times easier to go through if you knew that the ultimate goal was for us to become more like the Lord? Would it be easier to step out of our comfort zone if we knew it was no longer needed? What I mean by this is, would it be easier to tear down the walls around your heart if you knew you were safe and they were no longer needed? Would it be easier for you to get through each day with your sickness if you knew that on the other side of it, you would be more like the Lord? I think it is so important for each one of us to know that there is no situation that is too badly ruined for the Lord to fix. I know you may feel like you will never be healthy again, but God can restore your health. He can restore your family. He can restore your finances. And as the Lord stated in the vision, He doesn't just repair them, he makes a new creation that is stronger, wiser, and more radiant than the first one. God didn't bring this brokenness into your life—but He will not waste it. He is already working on it, rebuilding something stronger. How many of us could use a little restoration in our lives? Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those who are listening to this episode. God of Reconstruction, thank you for all you are doing to rebuild our lives. You are not only restoring them but also reconstructing them to be better than before. Thank you that even in this time of brokenness, You are making us stronger. We want more of you and less of us. Please help us Lord! We ask this in the name of Jesus, Amen. Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to share it with one person who might need this today? You never know how God might use it in their life. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow. Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day! Today's Word from the Lord was received in October 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “All my love spilled out on the planet Earth, the home I made for you. Look at the beauty about you and know that it is me speaking my love to you and washing you in my abiding love. I will always wash you. Come walk with me in steadfastness.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

This sermon was preached by Iain Kruger at Common Ground Church Rondebosch on the 26th of April 2026.Series: God and the Digital LifeSermon Title: Recreated in a Digital AgeScripture: 2 Corinthians 3:16-18‘Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.' (1 Timothy 4:13)

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Where is your life going?"Subtitle: "2 Righteous Men, 2 Very Different Lives"Scripture: Genesis 19:1-38 NIV Ezekiel 16:49Matthew 7:24-27Luke 17:31-381 Cor 3:10-15Hebrews 13:22 Peter 2:6-10Jude 1:7Bottom Line: Your walk with God determines the trajectory of your life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTOUTLINECONCLUSIONDISCUSSION QUESTIONSNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTIONMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. Opening Illustration (What do you want said about you at your retirement party?I know I'd like people to say nice things about me, my family and how I lived. I'd love to hear stories of good memories from family and friends.But most of all, I'd love to hear stories about how God did something beautiful in and through my life. Not bad desires.Because my walk with God determines the trajectory of my life. My grandson has started T-ball. He's learning how to aim and throw a ball so that it ends up where he intends for it to. Because he's learning that how he aims and throws it determines the trajectory of that ball. He'll need to improve his strength, aim, and skill to get the ball where he wants it to be. The same is true for our walk with God.The question becomes: Is the trajectory of my life headed to where I want it be? Am I living my life wisely or foolishly? Or does it just look like anyone else's in the world?Context (Opening Paragraph)Today we're looking at 2 righteous men with very different lives. By contrasting them, we will not see a Believer and a non-Believer. No, we'll see 2 Believers who live very differently and their lives end up having very different outcomes in the short-term and in the long-term.My prayer for you today is that you'll evaluate your life soberly and humbly. That you will make the changes needed to change the trajectory of your life. Why? Because your walk with God determines the direction of your life.Bottom Line: Your walk with God determines the trajectory of your life.OUTLINE (Genesis 19:1-38) Influenced by Warren WiersbeContrasting Abraham, Lot and JesusI. Abraham, friend of God. (Genesis 18)A. Abraham served the Lord. (1-8)B. Abraham served his wife. (9-15)C. Abraham served a lost world. (16-33)...as an intercessorFor Lot For the residents of SodomII. Lot, friend of the world. (Genesis 19) Contrasting these two's...A. Souls (position before God)"Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness." Genesis 15:6Lot was righteous too. 2 Peter 2:6-7Neither was seen as righteous by God because of their righteous ways. Based on these verses, we see this. Otherwise, we'd assume Abraham righteous but not Lot, because Lot's actions did not show much righteous fruit (in our limited view).They were seen as righteous because of their faith in God's promises.The same is true for us.B. LocationsAbraham continues to live in a tent as a pilgrim, just passing through, on his way to his heavenly home. Lot, by contrast, leaves the tents of Abraham, in the Promised Land, and the favor of his God, and...Moves towards Sodom into the Jordan valley (looks like Egypt and Eden to him), Then into the city into a house, surrounded by the wicked,He stays even after they were captured by Babylonian Kings and rescued by Abram,Then is found sitting at the city gates with authority and position (judge, city administrator of some kind),While you could argue he was being a missionary, it appears he was more influenced by Sodom than Sodom was influenced by him.C. VisitorsOnly 2 angels visited Lot, for the Lord could not fellowship with Lot and his family as he did with A & S. Even though Lot was a believer, the Lord was not at home with him. This is the difference betweenRelationship, and FellowshipNot unlike a marriage where two people are in a covenant relationship but not always feeling the fellowship.D. HospitalityBoth showed hospitality, butAbraham's example was exemplary on multiple levels and Lot's showed skewed values re daughters.E. MessagesJoyful message to A & S--promised son in 1 year.Judgment and destruction for the people of Sodom (and Lot and his family, if they don't leave).God's message to a lost world is judgment as well. This event in history becomes the example people point to reminding them there's a holy God who will judge. (Jude 1:7) But he's also a merciful God saving all who repent, trust and follow him.F. InfluenceBecause of his faith and obedience, Abraham was a blessing to his family and the world. God blessed his family then and the world until he returns. Lot had little spiritual influence on his family nor the world. He had faith, which saved him, but he was more influenced by residents of Sodom than by the Lord. G. AttitudeLot was rescued first by Abraham, along with the people of Sodom. Yet, he went right back to them. Later he had to be pulled out of the city by the angels the second time. He loved the things which are seen more than the things which are unseen. (2 Cor 4:17-18)Abraham yielded even his one and only son as he obeyed by grace through faith. (Genesis 22)How You Respond to God?Abraham → Runs to obey (18:2 “hurried… ran…”)Lot → Hesitates to obey (19:16 “he lingered…”)H. ConsequencesThe Lord's visit to Abraham led to new hope and a future.The Lord's visit was judgment and destruction for Sodom and 2 evil nations who would oppose the very God who saved Lot and his daughters. That said, one day, a young Moabitess named Ruth would marry Boaz and become the grandmother of the Lord Jesus Christ. This would be part of the mercy of God for the world.Principle:Walking with God → blessing flows out; Righteousness leads to life and legacyWalking with compromise → damage flows out; Compromise leads to survival but lossHow Your Story Ends (Trajectory)Abraham → Future, promise, legacyLot → Escape, loss, regretIII. Jesus, friend of sinners.A. While Jude 1:7 tells us Sodom and Gomorrah will stand as the example of God's judgment on a wicked world,...B. It will also stand as a mark of his mercy for his covenant people. We see this through the Moabitess, Ruth, grandmother of Jesus.C. Jesus calls those saved, like Abraham, to:Abide in the Lord,Serve our faith family,Serve a lost world through intercession. D. When judgment day comes, will you be likeAbraham--no worries?How--saved by the skin of your teeth but a horrible legacy?Sodom--lost forever apart from your Creator?CONCLUSIONBottom Line: Your walk with God determines the trajectory of your life.Matthew 7:24-27 feels like it's written to the lost. And it certainly can be applied that way.But I now think it's written to the believer. As Jesus wraps up his Sermon on the Mount, he ends with how a follower of his should apply all that he has heard--not for salvation but for fruitful living. John 15:16 says...God chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will last. That means he chose you to live a fruitful, influential, peaceful, transformative life. One that leaves people praising God at your funeral instead of searching for kind things to say about you.Questions (Write this down) - grab an index card and penWhat is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?Write this down on the index card in the seat pockets.DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastNOTESThe Legacy of AbrahamThis quote by John Lennox speaks to my part: “God first informs Abraham why he chose him. This is the only place in the Bible where he does so. The late Chief Rabbi, Lord Jonathan Sacks, comments:This tells us three things about what it is to be an heir of Abraham.First, it means that we are to be guardians of our children's future. We must ensure that they have a world to inherit... Second, education - directing our children and our household after us - is a sacred task ... Third, how do you keep the way of the Lord? By doing what is right and just.It would be impossible to overstate the importance of these principles in a world where children so often bear the brunt of neglect, abuse and suffering.” Friend of God, p. 186YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Are you leading people to God?Scripture: Genesis 18:16-33 NIV 2 Peter 2:6-10Hebrews 13:2Ezekiel 16:491 Cor 3:10-15Luke 17:31-38Jude 7Bottom Line: I am leading people to God when I welcome the stranger, teach my household, and intercede on behalf of the world.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTOUTLINECONCLUSIONDISCUSSION QUESTIONSNOTESYOUTUBE DESCRIPTIONMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. Opening Illustration (Rowan Atkinson, a legendary icon of comedy, television, and cinema, has left even the world's richest and most powerful figures stunned—not just with his words, but with decisive action.https://substack.com/@ajw3477/note/c-213026215?r=ogd8w&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=notes-share-actionAt a glamorous red-carpet gala in Los Angeles on December 20, attended by film moguls, tech billionaires, and Hollywood's most elite stars, Rowan Atkinson took the stage to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. But instead of offering a conventional acceptance speech, he chose a moment of truth—direct, fearless, and deeply human.He did not thank the Academy. He did not reminisce about Mr. Bean, Blackadder, or decades of global laughter. Instead, Atkinson looked straight into the audience of wealth and influence and declared:“We sit here surrounded by diamonds and artistic glory while the world outside is falling apart. If your voice can move millions and you choose not to use it for those who have no voice, then you are not creating change—you are creating noise.”The room fell into complete silence. Film executives and invited guests sat motionless, struck by the weight of his words. He continued, unwavering:“If you have more than you need, it no longer belongs only to you. Your responsibility is to lift up those who are still beneath you.”And he did not stop at words.That very night, Atkinson announced that all profits from his archived works and future creative projects—estimated at 160 million USD—will be donated to fund children's health initiatives, climate action programs, and arts education for underprivileged youth.His message was unmistakable:“Legacy is not built on what you earn. It is built on what you give.”In an era when celebrities are often dismissed as hollow symbols, Rowan Atkinson delivered a powerful reminder to the world:true impact is not created by applause, but by easing the suffering of others. Context (Opening Paragraph)Abraham has been entertaining 3 strangers at his tent for most of the day. Two of them are about to leave and head to Sodom to investigate the outcry against the wickedness of that city. They will assist the Lord in deciding the fate of the city. In the meantime, Abraham will have a conversation with God. He will intercede on behalf of those wicked citizens.Abraham will model for us how we are to live so that our lives make a real difference in the world. Just like the affluent were challenged to do by Mr. Bean.Bottom Line: I am leading people to God when I welcome the stranger, teach my household, and intercede on behalf of the world.OUTLINE (Genesis 18:16-33)I. Abraham, friend of God. (Genesis 18) Blessed to be a blessing, Abraham...A. Welcomed the stranger. #hospitality #love #care #lead (1-15)Qualified elders are required to be hospitable.Biblical hospitality is primarily geared towards strangers.B. Taught his household. #instruction #education #discipleship #feed (17-19)Qualified elders are to be able to teach the word.We start discipleship with our immediate family members and work out from there. Abraham was like the mayor, CEO and pastor of 1,000 people. Ultimately, he would bless the world.C. Interceded on behalf of Sodom. #mercy #intercession #prayer #mission #protect (16, 20-33)To intercede means to stand in the gap on behalf of others for their good.To intercede spiritually means to stand in the gap between them and God for their good.This is key to being an effective missionary.CONCLUSIONMy freshman year at college, when I was sitting in that auditorium at the end of the Christian concert, with my Christian friends, thinking I was a Christian the whole time, I heard the gospel message preached clearly for the first time.At that time, more than any other reason, I was drawn by the idea that I could make a real difference in this world. It just required surrender rooted in faith that God through Jesus Christ could use me to make some of that difference our world needed. So I stood and trusted Christ as my Lord and Savior believing that his way of making a difference in our world was the best way...maybe the only way.Bottom Line: I am leading people to God when I welcome the stranger, teach my household, and intercede on behalf of the world.So, Welcome the Stranger.Teach your household.Intercede for the world.Are you leading people close to you to God? Are you welcoming people into your life? Your home?Are you teaching your household how to be salt and light by doing what is right and just?Are you actively and prayerfully interceding on behalf of lost people around the corner? Around the world?Are you leading people close to you and far from God to God though Jesus?PrayQuestions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastNOTESThe Legacy of AbrahamThis quote by John Lennox speaks to my part: “God first informs Abraham why he chose him. This is the only place in the Bible where he does so. The late Chief Rabbi, Lord Jonathan Sacks, comments:This tells us three things about what it is to be an heir of Abraham.First, it means that we are to be guardians of our children's future. We must ensure that they have a world to inherit... Second, education - directing our children and our household after us - is a sacred task ... Third, how do you keep the way of the Lord? By doing what is right and just.It would be impossible to overstate the importance of these principles in a world where children so often bear the brunt of neglect, abuse and suffering.” Friend of God, p. 186YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Are You Marked by the Promise or by the Promiser (Promise-maker)?"Scripture: Genesis 17:1-27Romans 4:9-12Galatians 5:16-17Colossians 2:11-12Bottom Line: The sign (mark) identifies you—but the Promiser defines you.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. ⸻Context (Opening Paragraph)In Genesis 12, God calls Abram and makes a life-altering promise—to make him into a great nation. (Among other things) In Genesis 15, that promise becomes a formal covenant, secured entirely by God Himself. (Remember the flame and smoking pot? Abram sleeping?)Now in Genesis 17, that same covenant is expanded—Abram becomes Abraham, Sarai becomes Sarah, and God establishes circumcision as the covenant sign. The promise is now not only declared and guaranteed, but embodied and carried forward through generations.This isn't the first time God used a symbol to remind us of a covenant. Rainbow (Noah)Circumcision (Abraham)Sabbath (Moses)Baptism (New covenant)There's another one that isn't in the bible but is used in Christian tradition…⸻Opening Illustration (Wedding Ring)“When my daughters were younger, I used to tease them with my wedding ring. I'd slip it off and say, ‘Look, I'm not married anymore.' Then I'd put it back on—‘Now I am.' Back and forth—married, not married. They'd laugh, but also feel the tension. Then I'd say, ‘No, really—we're still married whether the ring is on or off. The ring is just a symbol of the covenant promise I made before God.'Think about the symbols we sometimes cling to—church attendance, family heritage, even baptism or communion. These are good, but they're signs. The real question is: are we holding on to the sign, or the One who made the promise?”⸻Bottom Line: The sign identifies you—but the Promiser defines you.⸻Outline (Genesis 17) 13 years later...(after Gen 16)1. God Reaffirms His Covenant (vv. 1–8)• “I am God Almighty… walk before me and be blameless”• Abram → Abraham (identity shift)• Covenant remains rooted in God's initiative

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Series: God, What Are You Doing?

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "How can we be sure God will keep his promises?"Scripture: Genesis 15:7-21 NIV Jeremiah 34:17-20Galatians 3:13-16Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. ⸻INTRODUCTIONThe Wedding VowMost people understand contracts, but marriage vows are closer to biblical covenant.In a wedding, two people stand before witnesses and promise faithfulness:“For better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.”Those vows mean:“I am committing myself to you even if circumstances change.”Now imagine a wedding where only one person says the vows.Imagine the groom saying:“Even if you fail me, I will remain faithful to you.”That would be startling.But that is essentially what happens in Genesis 15.Abram prepares for a covenant ceremony. He would have expected both parties to pass between the pieces. Instead, Abram is put into a deep sleep, and God alone passes through.God is saying:“Abram, this promise finally rests on Me.”That is how we can be sure God will keep His promises.Not because we are so faithful, but because He is.⸻CONTEXTGenesis 15 comes in the middle of tension.God has already promised Abram land, offspring, and blessing. But Abram still has no son. Sarai is still barren. The land is still occupied.So Genesis 15 is about the space between promise and fulfillment.And in that space, God does not rebuke Abram.He reassures him.Last week in Genesis 15:1, God said, “I am your sovereign/shield.”Now in verses 7–21, God shows Abram WHY He can be trusted.⸻Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.SERMONGenesis 15 has two halves:• Verses 1–6: the promise believed• Verses 7–21: the promise guaranteedLast week we focused on Abram believing God.This week we focus on God guaranteeing His promise.3 BIG TRUTHS1. God reminds Abram who He is and what He has done (v. 7)“I am the LORD, who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land to possess.”Before God explains what He will do, He reminds Abram who He is and what He has already done.That is important.God builds Abram's confidence in the future by reminding him of His character and His track record.Two anchors are right there in verse 7:• Who God is: “I am the LORD”• What God has done: “who brought you out of Ur”God often strengthens our faith the same way.When we struggle to trust His promises, He points us backward before He points us forward.He reminds us:• I am the LORD• I have been faithful before• I will be faithful againApplicationWhen your faith is weak, start here:• Remember who God is• Remember what God has doneOur confidence in God's promises grows when we look at His character and His past faithfulness.⸻2. God's covenant promise depends on His faithfulness, not Abram's performance (vv. 12–17)This is the heart of the passage.Abram prepares the covenant animals. In that world, both parties would normally walk between the pieces. It was a solemn way of saying:“May this happen to me if I break this covenant.”But Abram never walks through.Instead:• Abram is put into a deep sleep• God alone passes through the piecesThe smoking firepot and blazing torch represent the presence of God.So what is God saying?He is saying:“Abram, I am taking full responsibility for this covenant.”This promise rests finally on My faithfulness, not yours.That does not mean Abram's faith does not matter. It does. But the covenant is not secured by Abram's perfection. It is secured by God's commitment.That is why Abram's later failures do not cancel God's promise.Simple way to say itAbram receives.God guarantees.IllustrationIt is like an inheritance.A father prepares something for his children.The children do not create it.They do not negotiate it.They receive what the father establishes.Genesis 15 shows us that God is building a covenant family, and Abram is receiving what God creates.ApplicationThat is good news for us.If God's promises depended mainly on our consistency, we would all be in trouble.But the covenant rests on God's faithfulness.⸻3. This covenant ultimately points to Jesus (Galatians 3; Lord's Supper)Genesis 15 does not end with Abram. It is foundational. It points forward to Christ.Think again about the covenant ritual.Animals are cut apart.The covenant maker passes between them, saying in effect:“May I bear the curse if this covenant is broken.”In Genesis 15, God takes that oath upon Himself.So the big question becomes:If people fail God again and again, who will bear the covenant curse?The answer is Jesus.Galatians 3:13 says:“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”Galatians 3:16 says the promises were ultimately centered in Christ.So Genesis 15 is pointing ahead to the cross.At the cross:• God keeps His promise• God bears the curse• God secures salvation for His peopleWhat God symbolized in Genesis 15, He fulfills in Jesus.God said, in effect, “I will bear the cost.”And at the cross, He did.That is why Genesis 15 is one of the clearest foreshadowings of the gospel in the Old Testament.⸻CONCLUSIONSo how can we be sure God will keep His promises?Because in Genesis 15, God does three things:• He reminds Abram who He is & what He's done• He guarantees the covenant Himself based on His willingness to die for our failures• He points us forward to JesusSo when you struggle to trust God, remember:• Look at His character• Look at His past faithfulness• Look at the crossThe cross is the ultimate proof that God keeps His word.⸻LORD'S SUPPER TRANSITIONAs we come to the Lord's Table, we remember that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's covenant promise.At this table we look back and remember:• Christ has died• Christ is risen• Christ will come againThe bread and cup remind us that God does not just make promises.He keeps them.Jesus said in Luke 22 that the cup is the new covenant in His blood.So today we come not trusting in our faithfulness to God, but in God's faithfulness to us through Christ.Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.CLOSING APPEALSo what is God saying to you today?Perhaps He is saying:• Stop measuring My faithfulness by your circumstances• Remember who I am• Remember what I have done• Trust My SonAnd what will you do about it?Will you trust Him again?Will you rest in His faithfulness?Will you come to the table grateful that Jesus has secured what you never could?Amen.Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: How Can We Be Sure God Will Keep His Promises?Scripture: Genesis 15:7–21Jeremiah 34:17–20Galatians 3:13–161 Corinthians 11:23–26Luke 22:14–20; 28–30Hebrews 8:8–12Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.⸻INTRODUCTIONThe Wedding VowMost people understand contracts, but marriage vows are closer to biblical covenant.In a wedding, two people stand before witnesses and promise faithfulness:“For better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health.”Those vows mean:“I am committing myself to you even if circumstances change.”Now imagine a wedding where only one person says the vows.Imagine the groom saying:“Even if you fail me, I will remain faithful to you.”That would be startling.But that is essentially what happens in Genesis 15.Abram prepares for a covenant ceremony. He would have expected both parties to pass between the pieces. Instead, Abram is put into a deep sleep, and God alone passes through.God is saying:“Abram, this promise finally rests on Me.”That is how we can be sure God will keep His promises.Not because we are so faithful, but because He is.⸻CONTEXTGenesis 15 comes in the middle of tension.God has already promised Abram land, offspring, and blessing. But Abram still has no son. Sarai is still barren. The land is still occupied.So Genesis 15 is about the space between promise and fulfillment.And in that space, God does not rebuke Abram.He reassures him.Last week in Genesis 15:1, God said, “I am your sovereign/shield.”Now in verses 7–21, God shows Abram WHY He can be trusted.⸻Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.SERMONGenesis 15 has two halves:• Verses 1–6: the promise believed• Verses 7–21: the promise guaranteedLast week we focused on Abram believing God.This week we focus on God guaranteeing His promise.3 BIG TRUTHS1. God reminds Abram who He is and what He has done (v. 7)“I am the LORD, who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land to possess.”Before God explains what He will do, He reminds Abram who He is and what He has already done.That is important.God builds Abram's confidence in the future by reminding him of His character and His track record.Two anchors are right there in verse 7:• Who God is: “I am the LORD”• What God has done: “who brought you out of Ur”God often strengthens our faith the same way.When we struggle to trust His promises, He points us backward before He points us forward.He reminds us:• I am the LORD• I have been faithful before• I will be faithful againApplicationWhen your faith is weak, start here:• Remember who God is• Remember what God has doneOur confidence in God's promises grows when we look at His character and His past faithfulness.⸻2. God's covenant promise depends on His faithfulness, not Abram's performance (vv. 12–17)This is the heart of the passage.Abram prepares the covenant animals. In that world, both parties would normally walk between the pieces. It was a solemn way of saying:“May this happen to me if I break this covenant.”But Abram never walks through.Instead:• Abram is put into a deep sleep• God alone passes through the piecesThe smoking firepot and blazing torch represent the presence of God.So what is God saying?He is saying:“Abram, I am taking full responsibility for this covenant.”This promise rests finally on My faithfulness, not yours.That does not mean Abram's faith does not matter. It does. But the covenant is not secured by Abram's perfection. It is secured by God's commitment.That is why Abram's later failures do not cancel God's promise.Simple way to say itAbram receives.God guarantees.IllustrationIt is like an inheritance.A father prepares something for his children.The children do not create it.They do not negotiate it.They receive what the father establishes.Genesis 15 shows us that God is building a covenant family, and Abram is receiving what God creates.ApplicationThat is good news for us.If God's promises depended mainly on our consistency, we would all be in trouble.But the covenant rests on God's faithfulness.⸻3. This covenant ultimately points to Jesus (Galatians 3; Lord's Supper)Genesis 15 does not end with Abram. It is foundational. It points forward to Christ.Think again about the covenant ritual.Animals are cut apart.The covenant maker passes between them, saying in effect:“May I bear the curse if this covenant is broken.”In Genesis 15, God takes that oath upon Himself.So the big question becomes:If people fail God again and again, who will bear the covenant curse?The answer is Jesus.Galatians 3:13 says:“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”Galatians 3:16 says the promises were ultimately centered in Christ.So Genesis 15 is pointing ahead to the cross.At the cross:• God keeps His promise• God bears the curse• God secures salvation for His peopleWhat God symbolized in Genesis 15, He fulfills in Jesus.God said, in effect, “I will bear the cost.”And at the cross, He did.That is why Genesis 15 is one of the clearest foreshadowings of the gospel in the Old Testament.⸻CONCLUSIONSo how can we be sure God will keep His promises?Because in Genesis 15, God does three things:• He reminds Abram who He is & what He's done• He guarantees the covenant Himself based on His willingness to die for our failures• He points us forward to JesusSo when you struggle to trust God, remember:• Look at His character• Look at His past faithfulness• Look at the crossThe cross is the ultimate proof that God keeps His word.⸻LORD'S SUPPER TRANSITIONAs we come to the Lord's Table, we remember that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's covenant promise.At this table we look back and remember:• Christ has died• Christ is risen• Christ will come againThe bread and cup remind us that God does not just make promises.He keeps them.Jesus said in Luke 22 that the cup is the new covenant in His blood.So today we come not trusting in our faithfulness to God, but in God's faithfulness to us through Christ.Bottom Line: Our confidence in God's promises rests in His character, His competency, His covenant, and His Christ.CLOSING APPEALSo what is God saying to you today?Perhaps He is saying:• Stop measuring My faithfulness by your circumstances• Remember who I am• Remember what I have done• Trust My SonAnd what will you do about it?Will you trust Him again?Will you rest in His faithfulness?Will you come to the table grateful that Jesus has secured what you never could?Amen.NOTESNumerology1. The Difference Between 3 and 73 — Divine Witness or Divine ActionThree often signals that God himself is acting, confirming, or revealing something.It frequently appears where God's activity or testimony is emphasized.Examples:• Abraham, Isaac, Jacob — the patriarchal line.• Jonah three days in the fish (Jonah 1:17).• Jesus raised on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:4).• Peter's threefold restoration (John 21:15–17).In simple terms:3 = God's action or divine testimony.It often marks a moment when God steps into history.7 — Completion / Covenant FulfillmentSeven signals completion, sacred fullness, or covenant perfection.It often appears where God brings something to its intended completion.Examples:• 7 days of creation (Genesis 1–2).• Sabbath on the 7th day.• Sevenfold covenant symbolism in several passages (e.g., Genesis 21:28–31).• Seven seals, trumpets, bowls in Revelation.In simple terms:7 = God bringing something to completion or covenant fullness.A Helpful Way to Distinguish ThemNumber Core Idea Function3 Divine action / witness God stepping in7 Divine completion God finishing what He startedSo you might say:• 3 = God acts• 7 = God completes2. The Number 2 Is Very Relevant in Genesis 15 as wellThe Biblical PrincipleDeuteronomy 19:15“A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”Ancient covenants normally involved two parties walking between the pieces (a self-maledictory oath):“May what happened to these animals happen to me if I break this covenant.”What Makes Genesis 15 UniqueNormally two covenant partners would walk the path.But in Genesis 15:• Abram does not walk through the pieces.• Only God passes through (symbolized by the smoking firepot and flaming torch).It means:God takes the entire covenant obligation upon himself.In other words:• God is both witness and guarantor.• Abram receives the promise by faith (Genesis 15:6).3. How the Numbers Work Together in Genesis 15Interestingly, several symbolic numbers converge here.2 — Witness / Covenant TestimonyGod acts as the covenant guarantor.3 — Divine ActionThe covenant ritual itself emphasizes God's direct intervention in Abram's story.5 Animals (Genesis 15:9)• Heifer• Goat• Ram• Turtledove• PigeonSome see 5 here as grace, though that connection is less certain.⸻4. The Real Theological PointThe numbers serve the story, but the story drives the meaning.Genesis 15 shows:• Abram believes (15:6)• God guarantees the promise himself (15:17–18)Which is exactly how Paul interprets the passage in Romans 4 and Galatians 3.You could summarize it for preaching like this:In Genesis 15, God doesn't just make a promise to Abram—He walks the covenant path alone, declaring that the fulfillment of His promise ultimately rests on Him.

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: “How Does God's Promise Shape Our Faith Journey?”Scripture: Genesis 15:1-6 NIV Habakkuk 2:4 Luke 2-3Ephesians 2:8-10Romans 4:3-5; 20-22Galatians 3:6-9, 14James 2:21-23Bottom Line: When we trust God's promise, our journey is secure—He makes us right with Him and leads us step by step.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION“The Signed Contract Before the House Exists”In 2006, we started looking for a house to buy in Summerville. We'd just accepted the position to come to Grace and were excited about what we might move into. But our excitement faded as we saw what we'd care for the money we were bringing from our last house sale. So, in the end, it made more sense for us to build a new house over buying an existing one. Imagine a young couple buying a home that hasn't been built yet.There is:• No framing• No roof• No walls• Just dirt and a blueprint or renderingBut they sign a contract.They put down earnest money.They commit financially.Why would they do that?Because they trust:• The builder's reputation• The written promise• The legal agreementThey are acting today on something they cannot yet see.That's Genesis 15.Abram:• Has no son• Has no visible nation• Has no fulfillment• Only a word from GodAnd verse 6 says he signed the contract in his heart.“Abram believed the LORD…”Faith is not pretending the house is already standing.Faith is signing your life to the One who promised to build it.That sets up:• Romans 4 — persuaded God will do what He promised• Galatians 3 — we inherit the same contract by faith• James 2 — if you signed it, you start living like itCONTEXTGenesis 15 comes at a pivotal moment in Abram's journey. In Genesis 12, God called Abram out of Ur with sweeping promises of land, offspring, and blessing — but Abram still has no child. In Genesis 13, he lets Lot choose the better land and must trust God again for the promise. In Genesis 14, Abram rescues Lot, defeats powerful kings, refuses the riches of Sodom, and is blessed by Melchizedek — demonstrating growing faith and allegiance to God alone. Yet despite spiritual victory, the central promise remains unfulfilled: Abram is aging, Sarai is barren, and the land is still occupied by other nations. Genesis 15 opens in that tension — between promise and fulfillment, between faith and visible reality — and God responds not with rebuke, but with covenant.OUTLINE (with references):1. Fear Meets God's Promise (Genesis 15:1-2): Abraham's fears—reprisal and no heir—are met by God's protection and provision.2. Who God Is in the Journey (Genesis 15:1, 5): Present, protector, provider, sovereign, life-giver—all shaping trust.3. Faith Receives God's Promise (Genesis 15:6): Abraham believed, and it was credited as righteousness.SERMONReview from Genesis 12:1-3:God Is the Initiator of RedemptionGod Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand HimGod's Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is MissionalGod Promises to Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & PlacesGod's People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and Witness1. Fear Meets God's Promise (Genesis 15:1-2): Abraham's fears—reprisal and no heir—are met by God's protection and provision.2. Who God Is in the Journey (Genesis 15:1, 5): Present, protector, provider, sovereign, life-giver—all shaping trust.The stars in the sky in Uganda. (Show Chris' pic)"On a clear night, at most 5,000 individual stars can be seen with the naked eye, as well as objects like the fuzzy outline of the Andromeda Galaxy, with its estimated 100 billion stars, 2.5 million light years away!" -Lennox, p. 113"ACCORDING TO THE WRITERS of Hebrews and the Genesis record, the link between faith and righteousness was not a New Testament invention, nor was it even a patriarchal innovation. Instead, the dynamic connection between faith and righteousness is rooted in primeval history well before the flood. The lives of three famous pre-diluvians-Abel, Enoch, and Noah— make this very clear.Of Abel we read, "By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks" (Hebrews 11:4). Faith-righteousness was exemplified in earth's first family by the second son of Adam and Eve.Of Enoch Genesis says, "Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him" (5:24). The metaphor "walked" indicates closest communion and intimacy—a righteous life. Enoch's godly walk grew out of his faith, as Hebrews makes so clear: "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God" (11:5). According to verse 6, his God-pleasing faith believed that "God is" (literal translation of the Greek)-that the sovereign God of creation is God. He also believed that God "rewards those who seek him"-that God is positively equitable.As a result, Jude 14, 15 records that he became a preacher of righteousness, apparently for his entire life, for some three centuries! Enoch's life demonstrated a righteousness based on faith.Of Noah Genesis says, "Noah was a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God" (6:9). That Noah "walked with God" identifies him with the godly character of Enoch. But even more significant, the statement that "Noah was a righteous man" is the first occurrence of the word righteous tsadiq) in the Bible. Noah's righteousness was not derived from his being perfect or any antecedent righteousness, but because he believed God, as the writer of Hebrews explains: "By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household" (11:7). The biblical doctrine of imputed righteousness (a righteousness from God) began here in primeval history before the flood!" -Hughes, pp. 221-2223. Faith Receives God's Promise (Genesis 15:6): Abraham believed, and it was credited as righteousness.Cross-References for Genesis 15:6 - Faith credited as righteousness. #core• Romans 4:3-5, 20-22 - Faith credited as righteousness. #standing #position• Galatians 3:6-9, 14 - Faith connects us to the promise. #family #mission #nations• James 2:21-23 - Faith is active, not passive. #living #practical #behaviorsBottom Line: When we trust God's promise, our journey is secure—He makes us right with Him and leads us step by step.So How Does God's Promise Shape Our Faith Journey?He brings security, confidence and peace because of who he is and what he does as our personally present provider and protector.More application:First, when you face fear—whether fear of the future or uncertainty—remind yourself that God is both your protector and provider. Concretely, when you face a major decision, begin by praying for His presence in it.Second, trust in God's promise of righteousness—when you feel inadequate or guilty, recall that your standing is secure by faith. For example, when you fail, don't retreat—confess and continue walking with Him.Third, active faith leads to action—like Abraham, step forward in obedience. If God's promise is sure, what step of obedience is He calling you to right now?Fourth, when considering your connection to God's larger promise (like in Galatians 3), remember that your faith ties you to a bigger family of faith. Practically, live out that community—extend grace and include others in your faith journey.Finally, as James 2 emphasizes, ask yourself: How is my faith visible in action this week? Identify one tangible act of service or obedience you'll do in response to trusting Him.CONCLUSIONBottom Line: When we trust God's promise, our journey is secure—He makes us right with Him and leads us step by step.“The Shield You Carry vs. The Shield You Trust”You could return to Genesis 15:1:“Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield…”In ancient warfare, a shield only works if you trust it enough to stand behind it.If a soldier:• Keeps peeking out• Keeps lowering the shield• Keeps running forward in panicThe shield cannot protect him.The issue is not whether the shield works.The issue is whether he will stand behind it.Abram's fear was real:• Eastern kings• No heir• An aging bodyGod doesn't say:“Be brave.”He says:“I am your shield.”And Abram stands behind that promise.Romans 4 says he was fully persuaded.Galatians 3 says we now stand in that same promise.James 2 says if you really trust the shield, you'll fight differently.So the question becomes:Are you standing behind the Shield?Or are you trying to carry your own?That lands the plane cleanly on:• God as protector• God as provider• Faith that rests• Faith that actsINVITATIONPeter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"As Von Rad has said, "But above all, his righteousness is not the result of any accomplishments, whether of sacrifice or acts of obedience.Rather, it is stated programmatically that belief alone has brought Abraham into a proper relationship to God."This understanding is revolutionary! Circa 2000 B.C., Abram was declared righteous because of his belief. This declaration was in profound accord with the primeval fathers Abel, Enoch, and Noah. Furthermore, the principle has remained operative through both primeval and patriarchal history and the entire old-covenant era and is the foundation of the new covenant." -Hughes, p. 225"It has always been the same-in primeval times and patriarchal times. under the old covenant and the new covenant: Faith brings righteousnessand salvation.So it was for Abel: "By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain" (Hebrews 11:4). Abel was saved by faith, a faith that was not alone because it produced better works than Cain.So it was for Enoch: "By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death" (Hebrews 11:5). But Enoch's faith was such that he "walked with God" (Genesis 5:22) before he was no more. His faith was a real faith a faith that worked.So it was for Noah: "By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith" (Hebrews 11:7). Noah's profound faith produced a profound obedience. And his works were monumental: "He did all that God commanded him" (Genesis 6:22; cf. 7:5, 9, 16). His was a faith that worked.So it was with Abram: "By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going" (Hebrews 11:8). "By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac" (v. 17a.). Abraham was saved by faith alone-a faith that was not alone faith that works!We conclude this study with two penetrating questions. Have you rested your faith on God the Son, Jesus Christ, alone for your salvation? That is the first question. Are you trusting your works or Christ? Now if you answer, I am trusting Christ alone," then the second question is, has your faith produced works? Is your faith real enough that it has changed your life? These are salutary questions because you are saved by faith alone. But if it is true faith, it is faith that is not alone but a faith that works." -Hughes, p. 218"When someone is called 'a person of faith' it usually means that they are adherents of a particular religious tradition. It does not normally refer to the obvious yet frequently overlooked fact that everyone exercises faith every day in a myriad different ways - just think what would happen if people did not place their faith/trust in maps, traffic lights, electric appliances, or doctors, surgeons, pilots, lawyers and so on. In that important sense, everyone is a person of faith. Faith, as such, is not a religious concept." -Lennox, p. 117Below is:1. A refined opening (pastoral tone)2. A clean covenant pivot3. A governing Big Idea4. A simple sermon skeleton that keeps the focus where it belongs

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "What are the key ingredients to the life God calls us to live?"Scripture: Genesis 14:1-24 NIVHebrews 7Bottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be.God reveals himself as our rescuing King and eternal Priest and calls us to wholehearted allegiance.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONFree the Hostages"ON JUNE 27, 1976, armed operatives for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) surprised the twelve crew members of an Air France jetliner and its ninety-one passengers, hijacking it to a destination unknown.The plane was tracked heading for Central Africa, where indeed it did land under the congenial auspices of then Ugandan President Idi Amin. And there it remained apparently secure at Entebbe Airport, where the hijackers spent the next seven days preparing for their next move. The hijackers were by all estimations in the driver's seat.However, 2,500 miles away in Tel Aviv three Israeli C-130 Hercules transports were secretly boarded by a deadly force of Israeli commandos who within hours attacked Entebbe under cover of darkness. In less than sixty minutes the commandos rushed the old terminal, gunned down the hijackers, and rescued 110 of the 113 hostages. A few days later, July 4, Israel's Premier Yitzhak Rabin triumphantly declared the mission "will become a legend"—which it surely has.' Israel's resolve and stealth in liberating her people is admired by her friends and begrudged by her enemies.Actually, Israel's resolve is nothing new because the same quality can be traced all the way back to the very beginning of the Hebrew nation in the prowess of their father Abraham. The kidnappers in his day (the Middle Bronze Age) were an international coalition of four eastern kings headed by King Chedorlaomer who attacked the Transjordan, defeating the city states of Sodom and her neighbors, carrying off a large number of hostages That included Abram's nephew Lot." -Hughes, p. 213CONTEXTWe've gone from Promises of blessings to failure to rest in those promises to returning to the original promise keeper through repentance and faith.Abram went down to Egypt but returned to between "House of Bread" and "Ruin". It is here he and Lot part ways. He watches Lot choose what he thinks is best for him and yet outside of God's promised land. No doubt he knows this. He just doesn't believe it or realize it.Genesis 13 contrasts Abram's faith-shaped restraint with Lot's sight-driven ambition—and places both under the canopy of God's covenant faithfulness.In Genesis 14 we see the first recorded battle in scripture. We meet Melchizedek, and we see Abram draw encouragement from Melchizedek and rest in what God has said.There's a powerful lesson for us here.SERMONReview from Genesis 12:1-3:God Is the Initiator of RedemptionGod Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand HimGod's Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is MissionalGod Promises to Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & PlacesGod's People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and WitnessBottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be.Outline (help from Outline Bible):I. THE COURAGE OF ABRAM (14:1-16)A. The villains (14:1-11)The rebellion (14:1-4): Five Canaanite city-states rebel against Kedorlaomer of Elam.The retaliation (14:5-11): Kedorlaomer and his allies defeat the armies of the five city-states, plunder their cities, and carry many people away as slaves. B. The victim (14:12): Lot, now living in Sodom, is taken away as a slave.C. The victory (14:13-16)Abram's army (14:13-14): Upon learning of Lot's capture, Abram and his 318 trained servants ride out to rescue Lot.Abram's attack (14:15): Abram divides his men and initiates a surprise attack at night.Abram's achievements (14:16): Kedorlaomer is defeated, and Lot is rescued. II. THE COMMUNION OF ABRAM (14:17-24)A. The godly and priestly king of Salem (14:17-20): As he is returning from battle to his home in Hebron, Abram meets Melchize-dek, who blesses him. Abram offers him a tenth of all the goods he has recovered from Kedorlaomer.B. The godless and perverted king of Sodom (14:21-24): In stark contrast, Abram refuses to have any fellowship with Bera, king of wicked Sodom.My notes on Gen 14:This sermon is sort of a part 2 to last week. Abram rescues Lot and co.--people, possessions and all. And he's met by two kings upon his return: Melchizedek and the King of Sodom. (Name?) Sodom's king can only see that his losses are back and he can get back at least some of them, thanks to Abram, who rightly deserves the spoils of war. He is consumed by what he can see. So he asks for some of it back, though he deserves none of it. Melchizedek, however, is a mystery. He is there for Abram at a moment when he's tempted to also get seduced by what he can see. But he finds in Mel a kindred spirit of sorts. Actually, he finds a type of Christ. This type of Christ behaves very much like Christ. He blesses Abram in the name of El Elyon and praises El Elyon for what he did. He honors the greater even as he blesses the lessor. He also blesses Abram and his men with bread and wine. Could this be a whisper to a future Last Supper?Lot, fresh off his rescue, could easily be taking all of this in. He's no doubt glad to be alive. He is thinking of all his losses. He believes that Abram will restore his fortunes. He's focused on what he lost...what he could see and some of it he can still see. We know this because he follows the king of Sodom back to the city. He doesn't rest in what God has said. He's now further from that than he's ever been. Abram, inspired by another person who knows El Elyon, rests in the promises of God and eludes the temptation to dwell on what he can see. He tithes 10% of it to Mel, tells Sodom to give his allies their portion for helping, and surrenders the rest back to Sodom, with the possible invitation for any of the rescued people to join him in his growing clan. It appears none take him up on it.We're back to the contrast between Abram and Lot; a promise of God and a pile of possessions. Abram chooses well, helped by a mysterious king of righteousness, king of peace and priest of a different priesthood. This mysterious priest shows up right when Abram needs him. He leads with generous gifts followed by blessings to Abram and adoration to El Elyon. This is where we are as well. But we don't have a type of Christ showing up to help us right when we need him. We have Christ himself. And he showed up on a Roman cross and shows up for us every day at the right hand of the Father interceding for us in our need. So the next time you're tempted, like I have been for over a week, to feel sorry for yourself, remember that it only would have been worse if he'd not been praying for you.Chat GPT notes:Abram rescues Lot. (Temp salvation)Abram meets a Priest-King. (Melchizedek appears)Abram worships through giving. (Recognizes divine favor and responds)Abram refuses King of Sodom. (Allegiance clarified)Jesus is the better Melchizedek:Ultimate rescueEternal priesthoodCalls for total allegianceClosing illustrationHow many of you heard/saw last week's message? I've never gotten so much positive feedback on a message in my life. It's just like God to take someone battling the temptation to have his own pity party to do something like that. God is faithful.What's sad is that there were people online and on-site who heard the message last week and yet didn't get a thing out of it. Nothing. Nada. Zilch. How can that be? Life-changine for one--Apathetic sigh for the other. Who's that on?Abram and Lot were a part of the same war and rescue. But one of them turned away from what God said and went back to the wicked city that was defeated just days before. Like a dog returning to his vomit.The other turned towards the God of promise: El Elyon. The God Most High. No, not high on a joint--high on his holy hill; holy throne; in his holy temple.What about you?CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we rest in what God said, we walk in his key ingredients of righteousness, peace & blessing that we might be a blessing to the nations as he created us to be."Abram rescued Lot from four kings.Jesus rescues us from sin and death.Abram met a priest who blessed him.We have a Priest who intercedes forever.Abram gave a tenth.We give our whole lives.Abram refused Sodom's reward.We refuse a kingdom that is passing away.Because our King is also our Priest." -ChatGPTINVITATIONPeter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESThis is an important theological distinction—especially as you preach through Genesis and encounter figures like Melchizedek in Genesis 14.Let me define the categories carefully and then contrast them.1️⃣ What Is aType of Christ?A type (Greek: typos) is a historical person, event, or institution intentionally designed by God to foreshadow Christ.It is:Real historySymbolically patternedForward-pointingIncomplete without ChristThe type is not Jesus Himself.It is a divinely embedded preview.Key Characteristics of a TypeHistorical realityEscalation or fulfillment in ChristOften clarified by later ScriptureAnalogical, not identicalBiblical ExamplesAdamPaul explicitly calls Adam a “type” of Christ (Romans 5:14).Adam = representative head → Christ = greater representative head.MelchizedekHebrews 7 presents Melchizedek as a type:King of righteousnessKing of peacePriest of God Most HighWithout recorded genealogyBut Hebrews never says Melchizedek was Christ — he was “made like” the Son of God (Heb 7:3).JosephRejected brother → exalted savior → forgives those who wronged him.A clear Christ-pattern.Definition:A type of Christ is a God-ordained historical shadow that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus.2️⃣ What Is aPre-Incarnate Christ (Christophany)?A Christophany is an actual appearance of the Son of God before the incarnation.It is:A real manifestationPersonal and divineNot symbolicThe second Person of the Trinity appearing visiblyThis is not foreshadowing — this is presence.Classic Christophany TextsAngel of the LORDIn several passages:Speaks as GodReceives worshipForgives sinIdentifies Himself as YahwehExamples:Genesis 16 (Hagar)Genesis 22 (Abraham and Isaac)Exodus 3 (burning bush)Judges 13 (Manoah)Many evangelical theologians conclude this is the pre-incarnate Son.The “Commander of the Lord's Army” (Joshua 5)Accepts worship. Identifies ground as holy.Definition:A Christophany is a real, pre-incarnate appearance of the eternal Son of God.3️⃣ The Core DifferencesType of ChristChristophanySymbolic foreshadowingActual divine appearanceHuman or eventDivine manifestationPoints forward to ChristIs ChristIncompleteFully divine presenceAnalogical resemblanceOntological identity4️⃣ The Melchizedek Question (Critical for Your Genesis 14 Preaching)Some argue Melchizedek was a Christophany.But Hebrews 7 does not say he was the Son of God — it says:“He is made like the Son of God.”That language supports typology, not incarnation.Hebrews is arguing:Jesus is not in the order of Aaron.He is in the order of Melchizedek.Melchizedek prefigures Christ's eternal priesthood.If Melchizedek were literally Christ, the argument collapses.You can't be “in the order of” yourself.So for Genesis 14:Melchizedek is best understood as a type.The Angel of the LORD passages are stronger candidates for Christophany.OUTLINESSECTION OUTLINE SEVEN (HEBREWS 7) The author identifies and equates the priesthood of Jesus with that of Melchizedek. I. A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE (7:1-3) A. The person of Melchizedek (7:1 a, 2b-3)Who he was (7:2b): His name means "king of justice," and he was also the "king of peace."What he did (7:1a): He was both priest and king over the city of Salem.Where he came from (7:3): There is no record of either his birth or his death. B. The preeminence of Melchizedek (7:1b-2a)B. The preeminence of Melchizedek (7:1 b-2a)The battle (7:2a): Following the defeat of his enemies, Abraham met Melchizedek and paid tithes to him.The blessing (7:1 b): Melchizedek blessed Abraham.II. A THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE (7:4-28): The author lists the various characteristics of Jesus, who, according to the Father's decree, is to be a priest after the order of Melchizedek (see Ps. 110:4). Thus, his priesthood would be: A. Royal (as was that of Melchizedek) (see 7:1) B. Superior (7:4-10)To whom? (7:5-7): To Levi, founder of the levitical priesthood.Why? (7:4, 8-10)a. Abraham was the ancestor of Levi (7:9). b. The yet unborn Levi thus tithed to Melchizedek while still in the loins of Abraham (7:4, 8, 10). C. Independent (7:11-15)Independent of the law (7:11-12).Independent of the tribe of Levi (7: 13-15): Christ came from the tribe of Judah. D. Everlasting (7:16-17) E. Guaranteed (7:20-22): The Father himself took an oath concerning this. F. Continuous (7:23) G. Permanent (7:24) H. Holy (7:26) I. All-sufficient (7:18-19, 25, 27) J. Flawless (7:28)QUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?YOUTUBE DESCRIPTION Here's the revised YouTube description, with the preacher and links cleanly integrated and placed where viewers expect them:Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyMessage Title: What Are the Key Ingredients to the Life God Calls Us to Live?Scripture: Genesis 14:1–24 (NIV); Hebrews 7Preacher: Darien GabrielWhat does it look like to live the life God calls us to live—especially when we're surrounded by temptation, fear, and competing allegiances?In Genesis 14, Abram steps into the first recorded battle in Scripture to rescue his nephew Lot. But the real battle isn't fought with swords—it's fought in the heart. Upon returning victorious, Abram is met by two kings and faced with two radically different offers. One tempts him with visible reward and fleeting gain. The other blesses him in the name of El Elyon—God Most High.This mysterious priest-king, Melchizedek, brings bread and wine, speaks blessing, and points Abram back to the promises of God. Hebrews 7 later reveals that Melchizedek is not just a historical figure—but a powerful signpost pointing forward to Jesus Christ, our eternal King and Priest.In this message, we explore:Why resting in what God has said is essential to faithful livingHow righteousness, peace, and blessing flow from wholehearted allegiance to GodThe contrast between living by sight (Lot) and living by faith (Abram)Why Jesus is the better Melchizedek—our ultimate rescuer and eternal intercessorBottom Line:When we rest in what God has said, we walk in His key ingredients—righteousness, peace, and blessing—so that we might be a blessing to the nations, just as He created us to be.If you're feeling torn between what you can see and what God has promised, this message invites you to lift your eyes—and your allegiance—to the King who is also our Priest.

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "What happens when we rest in God's unshakable promises?"Scripture: Genesis 13:1-18 NIV Matthew 6:331 Corinthians 2:14-3:32 Corinthians 4:16-18James 3:13-4:102 Peter 2:7-8Bottom line: When God's people trust His promises, they can release what they see and rest in what He has said. OrFaith chooses promise over possession.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONWhen I was in high school, I was encouraged by my dad to go to a good college to get a good job. A noble endeavor, as I saw it.In college I chose an engineering degree that would provide for that vision.I was focusing on what I could see. I wasn't focused on what I could not see.When God called me into the ministry, he called me out of a career of engineering. I'd been practicing civil engineering as a consultant for five years, and had finally found my footing and was beginning to be productive in the eyes of the company. I finally felt like I belonged. God called me out of that into full-time ministry and I never really questioned the money piece. In other words by God's grace, I was able to look past the money to the Ministry that God was calling me too. I was able to walk by Faith instead of my sight.In this passage today, Genesis 13 we'll see a contrast between Abram and Lot. Lot will choose based on what he sees. Abram chooses based on the promises of God.When we trust in God's unshakable promises, we will release what we see, and rest in what he has said instead.What are some of those promises?God is ableGod hearsGod seesGod is with usGod caresGod satisfiesGod approvesThese are just some of the many promises throughout scripture that you and I have to bank on when we rest in him. Let's look at the life and the contrast of Abram and Lot and see how it plays out in chapter 13.CONTEXTWe've gone from Promises of blessings to failure to rest in those promises to returning to the original promise keeper through repentance and faith.Abram went down to Egypt but returned to between "House of Bread" and "Ruin". It is here he and Lot part ways. He watches Lot choose what he thinks is best for him and yet outside of God's promised land. No doubt he knows this. He just doesn't believe it or realize it.Genesis 13 contrasts Abram's faith-shaped restraint with Lot's sight-driven ambition—and places both under the canopy of God's covenant faithfulness.SERMONReview from Genesis 12:1-3:God Is the Initiator of RedemptionGod Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand HimGod's Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is MissionalGod Promises to Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & PlacesGod's People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and WitnessMy notes on Gen 13:God is.../God does...Merciful / forgives, restoresWest, spiritually (10) / Draws his people west, spiritually (10)Holy, just judge (10) / judges righteously (10)Permissive / allowed us to make mistakes and even sinFaithful (14-17) / kept his promise (14-17)Omnipotent (14-17) / able to deliver on his promise (14-17)Worthy of our worship (18) / Receives our worship w/ pleasure when by grace through faith (18)People are.../People do...Can be faithful, humble (3-4) / repent, return to the Lord (3-4); call on the name of the Lord (4)Tempted by riches (5, 10-11) / Pursue riches over God and end up in dark places (5, 10-11)Divided, greedy (6-7) / Quarrelsom (6-7)A witness to the world (7b) / A good or poor witness (7b)Gracious; magnanimous (8-9) / yield to the underserving (8-9)Brothers & sisters of humanity & sometimes in Christ (8) / Care about each other (8) or notLost; citizens of this world; born sinners (10-13) / Pursue the things of this world (10-13)Faithful (at times), blessed (14-17) / Obedient, humble, grateful, faithful, believing (14-17)Content for, yearn for God's presence (18) / Seek, pursue, rest in the Lord (18)CONCLUSIONBottom line: When God's people trust His promises, they can release what they see and rest in what He has said."Fellow believers (Abram's spiritual seed), when we truly believe the promises that are ours in Christ, when we truly understand and believe that we are seated right now in him in the heavenly places, when we understand that all things are ours in Christ, we will cease our grasping. As Alexander Maclaren put it:The less of our energies are consumed in asserting ourselves, and scrambling for our rights, and cutting in before other people, so as to get the best places for ourselves, the more we shall have to spare for better things; and the more we live in the future, and leave God to order our ways, the more shall our souls be wrapped in perfect peace.'" -Hughes, pp. 200-201INVITATIONPeter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESThe Apostle Paul talks about 3 kinds of people in the world somewhere in 1 Corinthians I think. Lost people, carnal Christians, and spiritual Christians. I think I read this in a Warren Wiersbe commentary pointing to Lot as a carnal Christian when considering 2 Peter 2:7-8. Does Paul say this?Short answer by ChatGPT:Yes, Paul does describe three kinds of people in 1 Corinthians 2–3 — but he does not present them as three permanent classes of Christians.He contrasts unbelievers with two conditions of believers.That distinction matters.Where Paul says this1 Corinthians 2:14–3:3 (flow of thought)Paul uses three Greek adjectives:ψυχικός (psychikos) — natural / unspiritualπνευματικός (pneumatikos) — spiritualσάρκινος / σαρκικός (sarkinos / sarkikos) — fleshly / carnalThese form the three categories you're remembering.The Three Types Explained1. Natural person — unbeliever (2:14)This person:does not receive the things of the Spiritconsiders them foolishlacks spiritual discernmentThis is clearly outside Christ.Paul is describing someone without the Spirit.So this one is not debated.2. Spiritual person — mature believer (2:15–16)This person:discerns spiritual realitieshas “the mind of Christ”is walking under the Spirit's influenceThis is what we might call:matureSpirit-ledgrowingresponsive to GodThis is Paul's goal for every believer.3. Fleshly / carnal believer — immature believer (3:1–3)This is the key text:Paul says to the Corinthians (paraphrasing):I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but as fleshly people, as infants in Christ… you are still fleshly… there is jealousy and strife among you.Notice carefully:He still calls them “in Christ.”So they are:savedbut immaturebehaving like unbelieversdominated by worldly patternsThis is not a third ontological class — it's stunted growth.So what is Paul actually teaching?Here's the most accurate way to state it:Not:❌ Three fixed types of peopleBut:✅ Two groups (unbelievers vs believers), with believers living in two possible conditions (spiritual or fleshly)In other words:CategorySpiritual StatusConditionNaturalUnregenerateCannot understandCarnalRegenerateImmature / worldlySpiritualRegenerateMature / Spirit-ledWhere Wiersbe and others get “three kinds of people”Teachers like Warren W. Wiersbe simplify Paul's language pedagogically.It's a teaching framework, not Paul's formal taxonomy.Helpful for preaching.But not meant as rigid categories.Your Lot connection (2 Peter 2:7–8)This is actually a good biblical illustration.Peter calls Lot:“righteous”yet compromiseddistressedliving foolishly in SodomSo:justified positionallybut practically worldlyThat fits the carnal/immature believer concept very well.So Wiersbe's use of Lot is pastorally reasonable.Theologically important clarificationSome traditions mistakenly build a doctrine like:“There are three kinds of Christians: saved, carnal, and spiritual.”Paul does not teach that.His point is corrective:“You should be spiritual by now — but you're acting fleshly.”It's rebuke, not classification.He expects growth.Bottom lineYes — Paul does describe:natural peoplefleshly believersspiritual believersBut he is describing spiritual maturity levels, not permanent types.The “carnal Christian” is:not a category to settle intobut a condition to repent from.If you want, we can next:look at the Greek terms more closelycompare with Romans 8 (flesh vs Spirit)or explore whether “carnal Christian” is the best phrase theologically (some scholars push back on that wording)or build a teaching/diagram you could use in a sermon or classWhere would you like to go deeper?OUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

Series: God is Good…We Promise, Stories of God's goodness when life doesn't make sense Episode Summary: This week's episode kicks off a brand-new February series, “God Is Good… We Promise,” where host Becky Davidson invites listeners into honest, hope-filled conversations about trusting God's goodness when life doesn't make sense. Becky is joined by Carrissa Mackie from the Rising Above team to share the heart behind the series and why these stories of faith, pain, and perseverance matter. Becky also opens up about her own journey, reflecting on moments when God's goodness was present even in seasons marked by confusion, loss, and deep hardship. The episode closes with a powerful time of reflection, encouraging listeners to consider where their trust in God may feel shaky. Becky shares a meaningful reminder often spoken by her husband during suffering: “When we feel we cannot trust God's actions in our life, we must trust His heart.”  Listeners are invited to bring their doubts and questions to God and ask Him to reveal His good heart for themselves, their children, and their families. Be sure to join next week as Carrissa shares her own story and how she experienced the goodness of God through a very challenging season. Related Link: Check out the Jerri Cross video on the app! Moment of Reflection:  For this week's moment of reflection, I want to come back to something my husband often said, even in the middle of his pain and suffering: “When we feel we cannot trust God's actions in our life, we must trust His heart.” Are there areas where your trust feels shaky right now? Places where doubt has quietly crept in? I want to encourage you to spend some time talking with God about those things. Ask Him to help you see His heart for you, for your child, and for your family—and to remind you that His heart is good, even when life doesn't make sense.  

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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re joined by beloved authors/speakers who coined the term “Godwink”—SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt. Godwinks are the little gifts left on our doorstep, the personal connection moments in which God lets us know we’re not alone. SQuire and Louise share about the latest title in their collection, Godwinks for Moms, and how the mothers and mother figures in our lives impact us, make a difference, and shape us into the people we are—all a part of God’s grand design and a way to show us how much He loves us. Guest’s Links YouTube: @godwinks Facebook: @Godwinks Instagram: @godwinkguy Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/3M8hI54 ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“Passion is what we can't stop doing despite not having any accolades or open doors.” Get ready for a real and raw conversation on Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer as Heather Thompson Day shares her journey with Susie McEntire-Eaton. Discover how to find God's delight in our attempts, even in failure. Guest’s Links Heather’s YouTube: @heatherthompsonday1 Heather’s Facebook: @HeatherThompsonDay Heather’s Instagram: @heatherthompsonday Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/480YXcq ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Episode 195 - Testimony Series: God Dreams Bring God's Provision - with Laurie Vines This episode is part of our December Testimony Series. Laurie Vines recounts her experiences and fears related to filmmaking, highlighting the miraculous journey of creating her first feature film, 'The New Norm.' Laurie, a teacher by trade, embraced filmmaking as an encore career following spiritual encouragement she received decades ago. She discusses key elements needed for a successful film, and shares personal stories of how divine intervention helped overcome obstacles. Vines encourages listeners to pursue their filmmaking dreams with faith, emphasizing the importance of God's timing and wisdom.BIO:Laurie Vines loves collaborating, creating, and celebrating finished works. As an author, she has published articles, poetry and chapters in anthologies. Her latest book ‘I Took a Shot and So Can You! A Beginner's Guide to Filmmaking and Producing' tells why she chose this encore career. Laurie came out swinging with her faith-based feature, ‘The New Norm'. Since then she has worn many hats on set as producer, writer, director, art lead, gaffer and caterer. LINKSIMDbThe New NormI Took A Shot and So Can You: A Beginner's Guide to Filmmaking and ProducingYoutubehttps://laurievinesproductions.com/Facebook Laurie VinesTikTok laurievinesproductionsInstagram laurie.vinesFAFF Association Online Meetups: https://faffassociation.com/#faff-meetingsVIP Producers Mentorship Program https://www.faffassociation.com/vip-producers-mentorship Jaclyn's Book - In the Beginning, Middle and End: A Screenwriter's Observations of LIfe, Character, and God: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9R7XS9VThe Faith & Family Filmmakers podcast helps filmmakers who...

Rev. Andrew Wang Matthew 1:18-25 December 21, 2025

Tim and Russ sit down to answer the last few questions sent in from the theology series. From how to hear God's voice to how to view Islamic neighborhoods and friends to why we feel bad when we get close to God to how to approach someone who doesn't believe in the devil. It's wide ranging and practical.Check out the conversation.Subscribe to get the latest videos and live worship:https://www.youtube.com/xchurch Connect with X Church Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/theXchurch.ohInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/theX_church/ Helping people get on the path to God.  This is the vision of X Church, led by Pastor Tim Moore and based in South East Columbus, OH _ Stay Connected Website: www.thex.church#theXchurch

What if Christmas isn't just about what we've made it—but about something deeper, more human, and more hopeful? In this sneak peek at the upcoming sermon series "God's Kind of Christmas," Pastor Mike and Amber explore the tension between cultural expectations and the surprising heart of the original Christmas story. They speak candidly about the honest questions many people have—especially those who wonder if any of this could actually be true. It's a conversation that calls for belief, not just in a holiday but in a God who stepped into history for people like us.Learn more about this month's $375,000 Challenge Grant at https://bit.ly/48k2PEm.

In this episode of Jesus Listens Stories of Prayer, host Susie McEntire Eaton talks with author and speaker Arlene Pellicane. Arlene shares insights from her book, Making Marriage Easier, discussing how intentional decisions, gratitude, and making time for fun can strengthen relationships. She also touches on the importance of prayer in marriage and offers a realistic perspective on how it can be incorporated into daily life. Guest’s Links YouTube: @ArleneHappyHome Facebook: @ArlenePellicaneAuthor Instagram: @arlenepellicane Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/43xG8ec ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this honest and hope-filled interview, Rachel Wojo shares how her faith was tested through her daughter’s 22-year battle with a terminal illness, and how God met her in her grief. From wrestling with anger to discovering the power of simple, heartfelt prayers, her story is a raw reminder that it’s never too late to call on Jesus. Guest’s Links Facebook: @rachelwojoauthor Instagram: @rachelwojo Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/46vT2eL ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from physician, researcher, author, and speaker Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, who understands the daily pressure many of us feel to “perform” and live up to unrealistic standards of who we think we should be. When we can begin to understand who we are apart from what we do, God can help us remove the pressure to “do” and embrace the freedom to “be.” Guest’s Links YouTube: @SaundraDaltonSmith Instagram: @drdaltonsmith Facebook:@DrSaundraDaltonSmith Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4mzRd5X ________________________ Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Jesus Calling Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media* Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.