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Pastor James D. Gailliard continues his summer sermon series titled "Looking Up: Summer in Psalms" with this teaching from the 8AM Worship Service at Word on Sunday, July 14, 2024~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~For kingdom decisions, prayer requests, giving, service opportunities, and more at Word Tabernacle Church go to WordTab.net~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~If you would like to take notes you may do so at Notes.Wordtab.net~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Get Connected with Word Tabernacle Church!Facebook: /WTCWordTabTwitter: @WordTabYouTube: /WordTabernacleChurch/Support the Show.Thank you for listening to this podcast! Follow Pastor James D. Gailliard on all social media @jdgailliard and get connected with Word Tabernacle Church by going to https://wordtab.net/ #EveryoneThriving
Welcome to Episode 18 of "It's Time Live," where we delve into everything new SkyWest flight attendants need to know about joining the airline and how union representation can enhance their careers. Hosted by Gailen David from the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) and Salt Lake City-based SkyWest Flight Attendant Jacque Crossley, this episode provides valuable insights for new hires, those in training, or anyone considering a career with SkyWest Airlines. Introduction to SkyWest Airlines SkyWest Airlines operates Delta, United, Alaska, and American Airlines flights. This setup offers flight attendants excellent flight benefits across these major airlines but requires them to adapt to different announcements, service guidelines, and partner procedures. While demanding, this variety ensures the work is never monotonous. For those who master the PBS (Preferential Bidding System), significant scheduling flexibility is possible once you become a line holder. Tools and Tips for New Flight Attendants Commuting: Crash Pads: Essential for those on reserve to be in base on your on-days. Flight Aware App:Track flights to ease commuting. Airline Apps: Download Alaska, American, Delta, United, and other airline apps. Spirit Airlines Non-Rev Listing: Use teamtravel.spirit.com/EmployeeTravel.aspx. Check with a coworker or contact LifeLines. Bidding: Bid Transparency Report on SWOL: Familiarize yourself with this to improve your bidding strategy. Access it on the Inflight page under scheduling, then PBS bid transparency. Lifestyle Tips for Flight Attendants Being a flight attendant offers opportunities to travel and meet diverse people, but it can also be lonely during long layovers. Here are some tips to make the most of it: Engage in Hobbies: Bring books or explore new cities during layovers. Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends and family. Take Photos: Capture memories of the places you visit. Absences and Calling Out Understanding the company's policy on absences is crucial. SkyWest allows five excused absences during probation, but management has terminated Flight Attendants for less. Follow these steps: Policy Familiarity: Review SP2307 in the FA Policy Manual and the "Standards, Expectations & Requirements" on the New Hire Support page on SWOL. Emergency Procedures: Know what qualifies as an emergency and follow the proper submission process through the excused occurrence submission page on SWOL. LifeLine Support Group: Use this peer support resource for help with calling out, bidding, policy questions, and more. SkyWest Culture and Union Advocacy SkyWest has evolved. While it once prioritized employee care, its focus has shifted more toward cost-saving measures and shareholder profits. This change has fueled the need for a real union, like SkyWest AFA, to ensure that flight attendants have a voice and are protected through a negotiated contract. Union Benefits: Improved Working Conditions: Single-occupancy hotel rooms, better pay, benefits, and working hours. Safety Regulations: Successfully fought to keep knives off planes, ban smoking, and establish regulations for extreme temperatures and poor air quality on aircraft. Representation: AFA-run unions, led by fellow flight attendants, ensure that industry standards are upheld and that the company remains accountable. Training and Probation SkyWest's training program is one of the most rigorous in the industry. Be prepared, read everything thoroughly, and adhere to all guidelines. Probation starts after completing your inflight operating experience (IOE) and can be extended by the company for various reasons. A union can help standardize these policies and protect new hires from arbitrary changes. We Are Better Together! The SkyWest AFA campaign aims to give flight attendants the representation and protection they deserve. Signing an Authorization Card supports establishing a real union at SkyWest, which can negotiate better working conditions, pay, and benefits for all flight attendants. Engaging with union efforts is your legal right, and management will never see your signed Authorization Card. For more information and support, visit ooitstime.com. Share this information with your classmates and colleagues to empower everyone with the knowledge needed to succeed and thrive at SkyWest Airlines. Fly safe!
On this episode your co-host Dr. Joe Hamlett and Dr. Dave Peltz discuss the topic We Are Better Together. When we refer to we are better together, we are speaking in terms of working on a team or in a group and the benefits of associated with that dynamic. Dave would also like to think that the more we work together the better chance we have of complementing one another. As we have mentioned it many times before, we often think we do things alone, but the reality is that we often have to rely on others to get things accomplished. Although we are typically responsible for the end results that does not mean that it is solely up to us to complete the task alone. As mentioned throughout the episode, in many cases there is possibly a standout person or persons on the team, but the reality is that it takes all of working together in order for us to be successful. Remember it is not about only us winning, but rather it is about all of us winning together. JONSOP jonsopdr2@gmail.com Dr. Joe Hamlett dr.joehamlett@gmail.com http:/www.leading2changeconsulting.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoehamlett/ http:/www.leading2changeconsulting.com/linkinbio/ Dr. Dave Peltz PeltzCS@outlook.com https://www.PeltzConsultingServices.com/services https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-david-peltz-phd/ https://tinyurl.com/DrDavePeltz Music intro & Outro provided by David T. Peltz, Owner of Peltz Tech Services, david@peltztech.com
“We Are Better Together” from www.vopwc.org by Pastor N. R. Taylor, Jr.. Released: 2023. Genre: Vocal. The post We Are Better Together appeared first on Voice Of Praise Worship Center.
With all that is going on in the world today, we need each other more than we know. Imagine our community as a bunch of different puzzle pieces. Each piece is unique, but when we stick together, we create this awesome picture. Let's work together to build some awesome communities. Listen in and be blessed.
Draw Near! – Part 2 Hebrews 10:19-25 NKJV 19 Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, 21 and having a High Priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. Draw Near! We Are Better Together! The Day Is Near! Proverbs 27:17 NIV says, As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Go To Church!
Bob chats with Bill McKibben the author of We Are Better Together, his first children's book. He is the author of the bestsellers The End of Nature, Eaarth, and Deep Economy. Bill is the founder of the environmental organization 350.org and recently Third Act, an organization that encourages people over 60 to take action on climate change. You can find out more about Bill McKibben on his website: BillMcKibben.com Find Bill's new children's book at: We Are Better Together
We Are Better Together
Our guests this week on the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast are Jessica & Chris Patay of Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. The Patays have been married for 25 years and are proud parents of three children: Luke (21), Kate (16), and middle child Ryan (18) who was born with a rare genetic disorder known as Prader-Willi Syndrome.We'll learn about the Patay family journey, Prader-Willi Syndrome and how Jessica started We Are Better Together, a non profit organization that provides respite, community, and resources for mothers caring for children of any age with disabilities, unique needs, or other medical or mental health challenges. We also learn about the We Are Better Together Podcast Jessica hosts. It's a fascinating and inspiring story here on this week's SFN Dad to Dad Podcast.LinkedIn Jessica - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-patay-06094446/ LinkedIn Chris - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrispatay/ Email Jessica - wearebravetogether@gmail.com Email Chris - chpatay@gmail.com Website – We Are Brave Together - https://www.wearebravetogether.org Website – www.jessicapatay.com Prader-Willi California Foundation - www.PWCF.org Prader-Willi Syndrome Association - https://www.pwsausa.org Foundation for Prader-Willi Research - www.fpwr.org Harbor Regional Center – https://www.harborrc.org/ Please take the SFN Early Intervention Parent Survey and as a token gift, receive a Great Dad Coin - https://tinyurl.com/5n869y2y Special Fathers Network - SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 500+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: "I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated. There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through."SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations. Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA Please support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/
Environmentalist and bestselling author Bill McKibben's first-ever children's book We Are Better Together is out today. It is a hopeful and inspiring story that celebrates the power of human cooperation and the beauty of life on Earth, while also acknowledging and spreading awareness of our changing planet. Northshire Bookstore will host his virtual launch on tonight at 5:30pm where Bill will be in-conversation with Carole Lindstrom, 2021 Caldecott Medalist and New York Times bestselling author of We Are Water Protectors. As one of the most trusted, leading authorities speaking to the issue of climate change, there's no one better to teach the next generation than Bill McKibben. He is a founder of the environmental organization 350.org, the first global grassroots climate campaign, and has organized on every continent, including Antarctica, for climate action. And in this time of crisis, including extreme disasters like wildfires and floods, it's children who may be the most powerful force for the transformation we need.
"WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER" As a Body of Christ we are meant to be together! Let's lean in with Pastor Richie as he explains the importance of Small Groups.
In this special episode, we are joined by several members of the NASBP staff to reflect on what NASBP volunteers and staff accomplished in 2021 and to discuss the many exciting things NASBP has planned for 2022. For a more in-depth look, check out the 2021 NASBP Highlights--Year-In-Review. As you listen to this episode and flip through the pages of the 2021 NASBP Year-In-Review, you will see how the theme, "We Are Better Together," that NASBP President Tracy Tucker chose for his term as President comes across loud and clear. See you in 2022! Hosted by: Kat Shamapande, Director, Professional Development, NASBP and Mark McCallum, CEO, NASBP Sponsored by Nationwide!
Satan's number 1 goal is to come between you and God, and you and other people. Let's lean in with Pastor Richie as he discusses why "We Are Better Together"
We're smack in the middle of winter, and in Ohio that means we still have a few months of cold and snow ahead of us. Frustrations come from unrealistic expectations and uncomfortable situations. We are so excited for you to join this conversation on seasons, snow and not getting frustrated. Share it with a friend who could use some encouragement. Thanks for listening, and don't forget - WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!
We're smack in the middle of winter, and in Ohio that means we still have a few months of cold and snow ahead of us. Frustrations come from unrealistic expectations and uncomfortable situations. We are so excited for you to join this conversation on seasons, snow and not getting frustrated. Share it with a friend who could use some encouragement. Thanks for listening, and don't forget - WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Elementary principal, educational blogger, and leadership speaker. Jon Wennstrom serves at the local level as a principal in Livonia Public Schools, at the state level in MEMSPA (Michigan Elementary & Middle School Principals Association) and at the national level with the Compelled Tribe of Ed. bloggers. His goal is "to make learning fun for students and for staff."I believe educators learn by connecting with one another and inspiring one another. WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER! Thank you for checking out Beacon Church. Its our prayer that this message from Brandon Crook will bring you hope in this season.Hebrews 10:24-2524 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.GOD Created us to be together. There is no place for racism in this world and in the church. Diversity is the most beautiful thing about the body of christ.The reality is we were created for community! We were created for relationships and friendships.The cure for loneliness is community!Not just your online community, but real raw friendships WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER Don't let your stereotype of church be developed from bad encounter you’ve had…Church is not a building. Church is the body! Church is all about community!A real community is made up of all races, all backgrounds! They support one another, they lift one another up! God cares so much about relationships that he gave us Jesus…Jesus came down to reinvent the wheel. He broke traditions, he went out of his way to meet with all people. He Loved everyone the same!It's time to start loving one another and allow God to heal our land.Support the show (https://beaconchurchatl.churchcenter.com/giving)
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Speaker or Performer: Rev. Steve Cypert Scripture Passage(s): Joel 2:26-32, John 14:12-23, Ephesians 4:1-16, Acts 16:22-28, Rev. 3:9-12, 2 Corinthians 9:7, Matthew 18:15 Date of Delivery: May 13, 2020 Watch the sermon on YouTube by clicking on the link below:“We Are Better Together”
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Pastor Tara Beth Leach | Acts 2:42-47 | Through pandemics, persecution, and war, the church has thrived and flourished throughout history. Although the church has often gathered in houses of worship, we are not a building. We are a people called to love God, love one another, and love our neighbors. During Covid-19, the church must wrestle with once again what it means to be the church without a building and without programs. Throughout this series we will look at the early church in the book of Acts and rediscover what it means to live the simple call of loving ... Read More The post We Are_ Better Together appeared first on PazNaz.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Upside Down Week 8 When the people in the Kingdom of God truly live out this different way to live, then the world can be radically affected by it. Beatitudes - Kingdom attitudes Salt and Light Greater Righteousness Matt:5:20 Matthew 5:20 New International Version (NIV) 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:38-39 New International Version (NIV) 38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. Exodus 21:24 New International Version (NIV) 24 eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, Deuteronomy 19:21 New International Version (NIV) 21 Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. Lex Talionis is a principle developed in Early Babylonian law and present in both Biblical and early Roman law that criminals should receive as punishment precisely those injuries and damages they had inflicted upon their victims. Revenge is not part of a believer’s arsenal. Matthew 5:40-41 New International Version (NIV) 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Second mile service- S. Truett Cathy – CFA- It is not enough to do the basics; go beyond what the customer is paying you to do. Not only do we say yes to the inconvenient request, but we do it cheerfully and go above and beyond. Matthew 5:42 New International Version (NIV) 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Those in the Kingdom are to be generous to those in legitimate need. In the situations where there are legitimate needs we should be willing to help as we are able. Matthew 5:38-42 The Message (MSG) Love Your Enemies 38-42 “Here’s another old saying that deserves a second look: ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ Is that going to get us anywhere? Here’s what I propose: ‘Don’t hit back at all.’ If someone strikes you, stand there and take it. If someone drags you into court and sues for the shirt off your back, gift wrap your best coat and make a present of it. And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Wednesday, March 11th Exodus 18:1-6 NIV 1 Now Jethro, the priest of Midian and father-in-law of Moses, heard of everything God had done for Moses and for his people Israel, and how the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt. 2 After Moses had sent away his wife Zipporah, his father-in-law Jethro received her 3 and her two sons. One son was named Gershom,[a] for Moses said, “I have become a foreigner in a foreign land”; 4 and the other was named Eliezer,[b] for he said, “My father’s God was my helper; he saved me from the sword of Pharaoh.” 5 Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, together with Moses’ sons and wife, came to him in the wilderness, where he was camped near the mountain of God. 6 Jethro had sent word to him, “I, your father-in-law Jethro, am coming to you with your wife and her two sons.” Exodus 18:13-16 NIV 13 The next day Moses took his seat to serve as judge for the people, and they stood around him from morning till evening. 14 When his father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he said, “What is this you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit as judge, while all these people stand around you from morning till evening?” 15 Moses answered him, “Because the people come to me to seek God’s will. 16 Whenever they have a dispute, it is brought to me, and I decide between the parties and inform them of God’s decrees and instructions.” Exodus 18:17-23 NIV 17 Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. 18 You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. 19 Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their disputes to him. 20 Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave. 21 But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. 22 Have them serve as judges for the people at all times, but have them bring every difficult case to you; the simple cases they can decide themselves. That will make your load lighter, because they will share it with you. 23 If you do this and God so commands, you will be able to stand the strain, and all these people will go home satisfied.” To be an effective leader for the kingdom one must be a representative of God. To be an effective leader in the kingdom one must know the Word of God. To be an effective leader for the kingdom one must be able to teach/disciple others in the Word of God. An effective leader for the kingdom exhibits godly behavior in their everyday lives. An effective leader for the kingdom surrounds themselves with capable people that fear God, they are trustworthy and despise dishonest gain. An effective leader for the kingdom delegates! BOTTOM LINE: There will be hidden figures in the wilderness to help prepare you for your mission Exodus 18:24-27 NIV 24 Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said. 25 He chose capable men from all Israel and made them leaders of the people, officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. 26 They served as judges for the people at all times. The difficult cases they brought to Moses, but the simple ones they decided themselves. 27 Then Moses sent his father-in-law on his way, and Jethro returned to his own country. An effective leader for the kingdom listens and then acts upon solid advice.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Sunday, March 8th What role does the Old Testament play in our current New Testament faith? Matthew 5:8 NIV 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Jeremiah 17:9 NIV 9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? They followed the letter of the law, but missed the essence of the law. Religious people get nervous when you start to challenge the way they live life. Matthew 5:17 NIV 17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. Fulfill- Bring the law to its intended goal. Galatians 3:21-25 NIV 21 Is the law, therefore, opposed to the promises of God? Absolutely not! For if a law had been given that could impart life, then righteousness would certainly have come by the law. 22 But Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe. 23 Before the coming of this faith, we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed. 24 So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. Matthew 5:18 NIV 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. With the coming of Christ and what He did for us, many aspects of the law are brought to completion. Hebrews 10:1-4 NIV 1 The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship. 2 Otherwise, would they not have stopped being offered? For the worshipers would have been cleansed once for all, and would no longer have felt guilty for their sins. 3 But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins. 4 It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. Hebrews 10:11-14 NIV 11 Day after day every priest stands and performs his religious duties; again and again he offers the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. 14 For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Matthew 22:36-40 NIV 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 5:19 NIV 19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 23:23-24 NIV 23 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24 You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. Matthew 5:20 NIV 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. Those in the Kingdom of God require a greater righteousness. Romans 8:1-4 NIV 1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. BL: The Kingdom requires a greater righteousness and the King provides it. The essence of God’s law has always been to love him supremely and love people unconditionally.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Wednesday, March 4th 1 Chronicles 13:1-11 NIV 1 David conferred with each of his officers, the commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. 2 He then said to the whole assembly of Israel, “If it seems good to you and if it is the will of the Lord our God, let us send word far and wide to the rest of our people throughout the territories of Israel, and also to the priests and Levites who are with them in their towns and pasturelands, to come and join us. 3 Let us bring the ark of our God back to us, for we did not inquire of it during the reign of Saul.” 4 The whole assembly agreed to do this, because it seemed right to all the people. 5 So David assembled all Israel, from the Shihor River in Egypt to Lebo Hamath, to bring the ark of God from Kiriath Jearim. 6 David and all Israel went to Baalah of Judah (Kiriath Jearim) to bring up from there the ark of God the Lord, who is enthroned between the cherubim—the ark that is called by the Name. 7 They moved the ark of God from Abinadab’s house on a new cart, with Uzzah and Ahio guiding it. 8 David and all the Israelites were celebrating with all their might before God, with songs and with harps, lyres, timbrels, cymbals and trumpets. 9 When they came to the threshing floor of Kidon, Uzzah reached out his hand to steady the ark, because the oxen stumbled. 10 The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah, and he struck him down because he had put his hand on the ark. So he died there before God. 11 Then David was angry because the Lord’s wrath had broken out against Uzzah, and to this day that place is called Perez Uzzah. Where did David go wrong? Valued the opinions of men over the counsel of God. Looked to the world as an example. Lacked reverence for God. 1 Chronicles 15:1-2 NIV 1 After David had constructed buildings for himself in the City of David, he prepared a place for the ark of God and pitched a tent for it. 2 Then David said, “No one but the Levites may carry the ark of God, because the Lord chose them to carry the ark of the Lord and to minister before him forever.” 1 Chronicles 15:13-15 NIV 13 It was because you, the Levites, did not bring it up the first time that the Lord our God broke out in anger against us. We did not inquire of him about how to do it in the prescribed way.” 14 So the priests and Levites consecrated themselves in order to bring up the ark of the Lord, the God of Israel. 15 And the Levites carried the ark of God with the poles on their shoulders, as Moses had commanded in accordance with the word of the Lord. Bottom Line: God’s work must be done in God’s way if it is to have God’s blessing.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Sunday, March 1st You are only really a firefighter when you actually fight fires. It takes boldness to be one that lives in the Kingdom of God and tried to influence the earthly kingdom and those that live in it. What does it look like practically to influence the earthly Kingdom? Matthew 5:13-16 NIV 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Vs. 13a 13 “You are the salt of the earth. Those in the Kingdom of God have been given the task of seeking to preserve what God says is good. The church has not done a good job of being salt. For salt to preserve meat it has to be placed on the meat. Vs. 13b But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. Pure sodium chloride can actually never lose its saltiness unless it is invaded by something external. Vs. 14-15 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 NIV 4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5 For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. For a Christian, being light will be inevitable. If you are not light you are dark. Trying to hide that which was meant to be prominent is ridiculous. The light you are becomes the light you have. Vs. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Christianity can avoid persecution by being at peace with the world, but it is thereby rendered impotent to fulfill it’s divinely ordained role. It will thus ultimately be rejected even by those with whom it has sought compromise. NAC BL: It’s ridiculous to call yourself a Christian if you do nothing to make the world a better place.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Wednesday, February 19th The Great Exchange God made an exchange on your behalf. Isaiah 61:1-2b, NIV The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God Luke 4:16-21, NIV 16 He went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, 17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: 18 “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” 20 Then he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on him. 21 He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Isaiah 61:2c-3, NIV to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:4-9, NIV 4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations. 5 Strangers will shepherd your flocks; foreigners will work your fields and vineyards. 6 And you will be called priests of the Lord, you will be named ministers of our God. You will feed on the wealth of nations, and in their riches you will boast. 7 Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours. 8 “For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing. In my faithfulness I will reward my people and make an everlasting covenant with them. 9 Their descendants will be known among the nations and their offspring among the peoples. All who see them will acknowledge that they are a people the Lord has blessed.” Isaiah 61:10-11, NIV 10 I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. 11 For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations. Bottom Line: Jesus came to exchange our rags for righteousness.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Sunday, February 23rd 2 Kingdoms - Earthly Kingdom - I am supreme and I decide what is good. We are born into this. God’s Kingdom - God is supreme and God says what is good. We are reborn into this. SAME GOAL – HAVE A GREAT LIFE Living your best life happens when you choose to live the life Jesus died for you to have. Matthew 5:7 NIV 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. This denotes a person that possesses a bent toward being merciful and not those that engage in an occasional merciful impulse. We can only show true mercy if we have received true mercy. Matthew 18:23-35 23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. 26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. 28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. 29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’ 30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened. 32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.” The earthly kingdom says to show mercy to those that “deserve” it or are easiest to show mercy to. Matthew 5:8 NIV 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. The real problem is not the things people do, but the hearts people have. 9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? Romans 7:14-20 MSG 14-16 I can anticipate the response that is coming: “I know that all God’s commands are spiritual, but I’m not. Isn’t this also your experience?” Yes. I’m full of myself—after all, I’ve spent a long time in sin’s prison. What I don’t understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise. So if I can’t be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God’s command is necessary. 17-20 But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can’t keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don’t have what it takes. I can will it, but I can’t do it. I decide to do good, but I don’t really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don’t result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time. Purity is a prerequisite for entering God’s presence. The earthly kingdom says what people say or think about you or what you say or think about you is most important. Matthew 5:9 NIV 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Life in the Kingdom is devoted to bringing peace to wherever we are. Peace keepers see all conflict of any sort as a bad thing. All peace begins with peace with God, which leads to inner peace, that eventually leads to external peace, that then leads to others seeking that same peace. Being a peacemaker also demands that we are not the creator of chaos and conflict. The earthly kingdom says seek peace when it is convenient and personally beneficial. Matthew 5:10-12 NIV 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Not only does Jesus say we are blessed, but He calls us to rejoice and be glad in the midst of persecution. John 3:20 NIV 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. John 7:7 NIV 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that its works are evil. John 15:19 NIV 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. Whether you like it or not, if you are in the Kingdom of God, you are at odds with the kingdom of this world. The supreme being in God’s Kingdom is quite different than the supreme being in the earthly kingdom. BL: To live my best life, I must be willing to pay the price for following Jesus. Matthew 5:12 NIV 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Sunday, February 16th Wherever your feet are planted determines what is upside down to you. 2 Kingdoms Earthly Kingdom I am supreme. I decide what is good. We are born into this. God’s Kingdom God is supreme God says what is good We are reborn into this. John 10:10 NLT 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. Living your best life happens when you choose to live the life Jesus died for you to have. The Sermon on the mount is not the way to heaven or a nice way to live life. The Sermon on the mount is Jesus’s description of the rich and satisfying life that he lived and invites you to live through his help. Matthew 5:1-2 NIV 1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. vs. 3 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Makarioi - Blessed, Happy, Fortunate God’s Kingdom and the Earthly kingdom have different ideas on what it looks like to be blessed. vs. 3 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. It takes a great deal of humility to accept the gospel. When we start with our spiritual poverty and realize that we have nothing to offer God and that His affection for us is not dependent on our behavior then we can truly live the rich and satisfying life. The earthly kingdom says you are good enough, lack nothing and need no one. Matthew 5:4 NIV 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. When was the last time you wept because of your own sin? When was the last time you wept because of the brokenness around you? Earthly Kingdom says those that mourn are losing, weak and unfortunate. Matthew 5:5 NIV 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. The meek are people that are not afraid to be seen as less than perfect. God cannot bless who you pretend to be. The earthly Kingdom says show no weakness and only show the best parts of yourself so you will be accepted. Matthew 5:6 NIV 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. What we are hungering and thirsting for here is the imputed righteousness to become a practical righteousness in our lives. In God’s Kingdom, He sets what is good. I do not. Where my feet are planted will determine what looks upside down to me. The earthly Kingdom says we don’t need anyone else to tell us what is right and wrong because right and wrong is subjective to each person. Bottom Line: To live my best life, I must live dependent on God and not myself.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Wednesday, February 12th Are You Awake and at Work? How hard is it for you to wake up in the morning? We typically can train our bodies to fit any schedule over time. Without training or discipline, our lives can feel off balance, both physically & spiritually. A pattern of spiritually sleepy people has been documented since the beginning of time. We’re going to look at what might be the morning caffeine boost we need. We’re looking into the Bible; specifically, texts from the prophet Isaiah. Isaiah 52:1-3 NLT 1 Wake up, wake up, O Zion! Clothe yourself with strength. Put on your beautiful clothes, O holy city of Jerusalem, for unclean and godless people will enter your gates no longer. 2 Rise from the dust, O Jerusalem. Sit in a place of honor. Remove the chains of slavery from your neck, O captive daughter of Zion. 3 For this is what the Lord says: “When I sold you into exile, I received no payment. Now I can redeem you without having to pay for you.” Isaiah is telling God’s people to wake up! Rise from the dust! Remove the chains of slavery! God is going to redeem His people. Since the beginning of time, when humans first stepped away from God, God has been on a saving mission to get people back. His desperation to be in a relationship with us is so intense, He’s willing to do whatever it takes, and promises to do so. Do you know the one who’s begging you to wake up and be freed from sin? Have you forgotten that He’s promised so much more for you than what you can even imagine? Let’s wake up and remember His faithfulness. Isaiah 52:4-6 NLT 4 This is what the Sovereign Lord says: “Long ago my people chose to live in Egypt. Now they are oppressed by Assyria. 5 What is this?” asks the Lord. “Why are my people enslaved again? Those who rule them shout in exultation. My name is blasphemed all day long. 6 But I will reveal my name to my people, and they will come to know its power. Then at last they will recognize that I am the one who speaks to them.” Our sin, repeatedly, gives God a bad name. Some people are so turned off from Christianity, not because of God, but because of the sin that rules over the lives of those who are called “God’s people.” Now, God can defend His own name…but He also works in the lives of people through people. Christians, we have to reflect a likeness of God’s character to those around us. Let’s ask for God to forgive us and help us move forward better than before. God's forgiveness forgets our sin and forgives us our past. Have you ever wished we could forget too? Maybe because sin's past burden is too heavy. We can be hopeful to not repeat the past when we still remember the pain. The memory of painful past experiences can help up appreciate the now and have hope for the future. We see happening to God’s people then and this happens to us today. Just like we remind ourselves what a great feeling it is to get good rest and wake up early, determined, and refreshed to conquer a new day, the people of God were needing reminded of where they’ve been and where God’s wanting to take them though hope of a savior. God’s hope for tomorrow was something that His people could hang on to when Isaiah wrote these next words: Isaiah 52:7-10 NLT 7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! 8 The watchmen shout and sing with joy, for before their very eyes they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem. 9 Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song, for the Lord has comforted his people. He has redeemed Jerusalem. 10 The Lord has demonstrated his holy power before the eyes of all the nations. All the ends of the earth will see the victory of our God. Isaiah is picturing a city anxiously awaiting the news of the outcome of a battle. The feet of the runner who brought good news were beautiful. Here, good news pertained to the freedom that was to come for God’s people once and for all. Good news is spotted again in the term—Gospel—Life of Jesus, recorded in the New Testament Gospels…Matthew/Mark/Luke/John. This telling of Jesus’ life. It started with people running telling everyone about a baby, messiah, savior being born. Shepherds watching flocks, angel choirs, astronomical anomalies in the sky, Isaiah is relaying God’s promise of what we see unfold in the life of Jesus, God’s son, the saving one. Anyone noticing some similarities? When reading from the Old Testament, and passages like this, we see the truth that Jesus did not have His beginning in a stable, wrapped in swaddling clothes. John 1:1 says, "In the beginning was the Word (Jesus). And the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Jesus was the One who spoke the world into existence. Then God, in an effort to save His people from the slavery of sin, transformed deity into humanity. The little baby of the Gospels is the great God of Genesis. God became flesh. Jesus Christ was fully human and fully God. Littered through this next chapter of Isaiah, chapter 53, we read the detailed description of the death of Jesus, hundreds of years before it happens. And in Romans 5:11, we hear how the death of Jesus was an atonement for our sins, covering the debt that humans owe God. This debt covers our sins and makes us pure in God’s eyes. We cannot do enough good things to earn this gift of life now and forever through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Because Jesus Christ was able to conquer death and rise from the dead, Christ made Himself the perfect sacrifice who now continually offers Himself to anyone who believes in Him. Even though Jesus is with God in heaven now, John 15:26 & Romans 8:9-10 remind us that He is also residing within every believer in the person of the Holy Spirit, whom He sent to be in us and with us. Isaiah 52: V.10 (NIV translates “the Lord will lay bare his holy arm” through the Bible, God’s arm is associated with his great power. So when God lays bare his holy arm, he’s “rolling up his sleeves” to do something powerful—specifically, to redeem his people! So, how does the Lord demonstrate this redemptive power to the ends of the earth? Through His redeemed people. People who have accepted this truth and live daily in the power of the Holy Spirit. God's redeeming power flows through His redeemed people. The word "redeem" is a verb...it requires action. Romans 5:19 tells us, Jesus is actively working to shape believers’ character and empower obedience of His followers. Hebrews 7:25 says, Jesus is also living to intercede for those who believe in Him. We can be encouraged by this victory of Jesus, but it doesn’t just end there. Isaiah 52:11-12 NLT 11 Get out! Get out and leave your captivity, where everything you touch is unclean. Get out of there and purify yourselves, you who carry home the sacred objects of the Lord. 12 You will not leave in a hurry, running for your lives. For the Lord will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind. Get out! Get away from your sin. But you don’t have to fight that battle against sin alone. Jesus will go ahead of you… yes, God will go behind you also. When you choose to follow this truth and live for God, you will not be alone. God will be near and actively working for your good. Consider this… Romans 8:34, [Jesus] makes requests and brings the prayers of people before God. In 1 John 2:1–2, Jesus is our Advocate when we sin. Positioned between us and holy God, Jesus declares our righteous standing because of His sacrifice and our faith in Him. In addition, John 14:1-3 encourages us that Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven. Isaiah’s words encouraged the people of the time to press on to what was to come. His words to us now are evidence of God’s faithfulness. God’s been at work from the start of things. He’s still working. His work includes arranging all the events necessary for Jesus’ return someday. Jesus, the hope that came from God’s promise in Isaiah, is busy every moment in carrying out God’s will. His followers should be doing the same thing. He saved us for the purpose of mirroring His life in our work, attitudes, words, and behavior. We are His body on earth pointing others to Him. So wake up, remember the past, give it all to God, and get to work. Bottom Line: Wake up and get to work. Are you spiritually an early riser? Disciplined, so that even when days come that feel “off” you’re prepared for a victory through the power of Jesus? Are you ready to accomplish way more than anticipated? Not because of who you are, but because of whose you are. If your hitting snooze in your relationship with Jesus…it’s time to wake up. You’ve got everything you need in the victory of Jesus, God’s going before & behind you.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha Sermon Notes Sunday, February 9th Let's Get Personal! Do you know what I can do? When was the first time someone was able to answer that question for you? When it comes to character and faith, the kids and teens around you are watching you in a way they may not watch you in other pursuits. If it's not in you, they know it. If you are merely trying to instill faith and morals for the sake of the kids, but it's not in you, they'll eventually catch on. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. What if the best thing that could happen in the heart of a child was actually what happened in the life of a parent? If the target is to pass a personal faith along to children, parents should make it priority to make faith personal in their own lives. Our mission is to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. Core Value: We never stop growing! Whatever you want the next generation to become, you should honestly strive to become that as well. Faith and character both develop over time. 2 Timothy 1:5-7 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. 6 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:8-12 8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. 9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. 11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. 12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day. 2 Timothy 1:13 13 What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Authentic stories are the hardest ones to argue away. 2 Timothy 1:14 14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Spiritual Deposits One size does not fit all when it comes to the ways we connect with God most deeply and personally. Relational Deposits People need people, and parents need parents. Bottom Line: The only faith you can pass on is personal faith.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Wednesday, February 5th Don’t let your past designate your future! We have the promise of what He is going to do! Isaiah 43:14-15 NIV 14 This is what the Lord says— your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “For your sake I will send to Babylon and bring down as fugitives all the Babylonians,[b] in the ships in which they took pride. 15 I am the Lord, your Holy One, Israel’s Creator, your King.” We have the reminder of what He has done! Isaiah 43:16-17 NIV 16 This is what the Lord says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, 17 who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: We have what He wants to do now and we need to do to be a part of it. Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Dwelling on the past can keep you from what you need in the future. 2 Timothy 4:7 NIV 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. The one thing that God wants from us is our FAITHFULNESS. Dwelling in your past can keep you down in the pit! Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV 18 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. 19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Lamentations 3:22-23 NIV 22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, February 2nd Feeling forced, Coerced, or guilted into doing something leads to short term changes, but never long-term transformation. Mark 12:41 NIV 41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. For some they would try and give more just to impress Him. For some they would give simply out of fear. For some it would discourage them from giving. For some it would cause them to be much more intentional about seeking God in regards to giving. Do you ever think about the fact that Jesus knows how generous you are and why you are or are not generous? Why did/does Jesus care about giving? Mark 6:19-21 MSG 19-21 “Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust and burglars. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being. Giving is a way to prioritize God in our life. Mark 12:42 NIV 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Mark 12:43-44 NIV 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.” It is not the portion, but the proportion that matters. The widow’s offering doesn’t represent the least we can give, but rather the most. There is no amount of money that will ever make us right with God. There is this false dichotomy that we need to get past. If I am generous, then I must live a meager and miserable life. If I am not generous, then I can enjoy the things of life, but I do so with a guilty conscious, because I know I am not living how God wants me to. What if I told you that neither one is God’s will for your life. 1 Timothy 6:17 NIV 17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Be generous and enjoy your life. Bottom Line: The best thing you can do is have your cake and share it too.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Wednesday, January 27th Frustration: feeling or expressing distress and annoyance, especially because of inability to change or achieve something Isaiah 12:2 NIV 2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense[a]; he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 38:1-8 NIV 1 In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.” 2 Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, 3 “Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 4 Then the word of the Lord came to Isaiah: 5 “Go and tell Hezekiah, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will add fifteen years to your life. 6 And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria. I will defend this city. 7 “‘This is the Lord’s sign to you that the Lord will do what he has promised: 8 I will make the shadow cast by the sun go back the ten steps it has gone down on the stairway of Ahaz.’” So the sunlight went back the ten steps it had gone down. Isaiah 38:21 NIV 21 Isaiah had said, “Prepare a poultice of figs and apply it to the boil, and he will recover.” Isaiah 39:1-2 NIV 1 At that time Marduk-Baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent Hezekiah letters and a gift, because he had heard of his illness and recovery. 2 Hezekiah received the envoys gladly and showed them what was in his storehouses—the silver, the gold, the spices, the fine olive oil—his entire armory and everything found among his treasures. There was nothing in his palace or in all his kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them. Isaiah 39:3-8 NIV 3 Then Isaiah the prophet went to King Hezekiah and asked, “What did those men say, and where did they come from?” “From a distant land,” Hezekiah replied. “They came to me from Babylon.” 4 The prophet asked, “What did they see in your palace?” “They saw everything in my palace,” Hezekiah said. “There is nothing among my treasures that I did not show them.” 5 Then Isaiah said to Hezekiah, “Hear the word of the Lord Almighty: 6 The time will surely come when everything in your palace, and all that your predecessors have stored up until this day, will be carried off to Babylon. Nothing will be left, says the Lord. 7 And some of your descendants, your own flesh and blood who will be born to you, will be taken away, and they will become eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.” 8 “The word of the Lord you have spoken is good,” Hezekiah replied. For he thought, “There will be peace and security in my lifetime.” “The Lord gets His best soldiers out of the highlands of affliction.” -Charles Spurgeon Isaiah 40:27-31 NIV 27 Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? 28 Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. 29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 30 Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Bottom Line : The Lord is the Everlasting God
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, January 26th We grow better together. Ecclesiastes 4:7-8 NIV 7 Again I saw something meaningless under the sun: 8 There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brother. There was no end to his toil, yet his eyes were not content with his wealth. “For whom am I toiling,” he asked, “and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” This too is meaningless— a miserable business! According to a 2018 national survey by Cigna, loneliness levels have reached an all-time high, with nearly half of 20,000 U.S. adults reporting they sometimes or always feel alone. Forty percent of survey participants also reported they sometimes or always feel that their relationships are not meaningful and that they feel isolated. According to a meta-analysis co-authored by Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Brigham Young University, lack of social connection heightens health risks as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day or having alcohol use disorder. She’s also found that loneliness and social isolation are twice as harmful to physical and mental health as obesity (Perspectives on Psychological Science, Vol. 10, No. 2, 2015). Hawkley points to evidence linking perceived social isolation with adverse health consequences including depression, poor sleep quality, impaired executive function, accelerated cognitive decline, poor cardiovascular function and impaired immunity at every stage of life. In addition, a 2019 study led by Kassandra Alcaraz, PhD, MPH, a public health researcher with the American Cancer Society, analyzed data from more than 580,000 adults and found that social isolation increases the risk of premature death from every cause for every race (American Journal of Epidemiology, Vol. 188, No. 1, 2019). Spiritually speaking, a lack of connection will lead to adverse effects in your spiritual life. Henry Cloud Book- Power of the Other - From the womb to the tomb we are searching for connection. Ecclesiastes 4:9 NIV 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: Once we have discovered purpose we need to find people to live that purpose out with. Ecclesiastes 4:10 NIV 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Ecclesiastes 4:11 NIV 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Warren Wiersbe- The only way to be warm alone is to carry extra blankets and add to your load. Ecclesiastes 4:12a 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. When you are doing great things for the kingdom you will be attacked. Ecclesiastes 4:12b A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Bottom Line: Life is better connected.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, January 19th Bottom Line: We discover purpose through selflessness not selfishness. Mark 10:35-37 35 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” 36 “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 37 They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” The purpose God has for your life is way bigger than the purpose you have for your life. Mark 10:38 NIV 38 “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” Greatness in God’s Kingdom is personally expensive. Mark 10:39-40 NIV 39 “We can,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, 40 but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.” Mark 10:41 NIV 41 When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. Mark 10:42 NIV 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Mark 10:43-44 NIV 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. To discover your true purpose in life it starts by serving other people. Mark 10:45 NIV 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” True purpose is found in the giving away of our lives for others. Bottom Line: We discover purpose through selflessness not selfishness.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, January 12th Chinese Proverb - The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. We can’t have a next step until we have had a first step. Romans 10:1-4 NIV 1 Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved. 2 For I can testify about them that they are zealous for God, but their zeal is not based on knowledge. 3 Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. 4 Christ is the culmination of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes. Romans 10:5 NIV 5 Moses writes this about the righteousness that is by the law: “The person who does these things will live by them.” Romans 10:6-8 NIV 6 But the righteousness that is by faith says: “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) 7 “or ‘Who will descend into the deep?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). 8 But what does it say? “The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart,” that is, the message concerning faith that we proclaim: We don’t have to go and find Jesus because He came and found us. Romans 10:9-11 NIV 9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. 11 As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” Confession is the animation of conviction. Calvin - It is quite nonsensical to insist that there is fire, when there is neither flame nor heat. What is our confession? Jesus is Lord and God raised Him from the dead. Those who come to Christ by faith are acknowledging that they have placed themselves entirely and without reserve under His authority to carry out without hesitation whatever He may choose for them to do. NAC 1 Corinthians 15:17 NIV 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Romans 10:12-13 NIV 12 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, 13 for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:14-15 NIV 14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Bottom Line: When you personally discover faith, you will personally help others discover faith. Are you relying on someone else to tell your friends and family about Jesus?
"Nexus is founded on the 4 C's, COFFEE, CREATIVE, COMMUNITY, & CONNECT. It's very much the foundation and the bricks that we are builidng. So how can we lay more bricks on top of that and build a better home? As cheesy as it sounds, we are better together. It's not healthy for us to be alone in this journey." - Amy Counce of Nexus Coffee & CreativeAmy is sharing with us the story and the "WHY" behind her community based coffee shop and her motto, "WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER." Have you felt that spark that happens as things begin to align in your life and business after you've found your footing on your path to purpose? This is your "WHY," it's the reason you have meaning and thats exactly what Amy and I are sharing about on this episode.CONNECT WITH NEXUSFacebook: Nexus Coffee & Creative www.facebook.com/nexuscoffeearInstagram: @NexusCoffeearWebsite: https://nexuscoffeear.comCONNECT WITH THE BUSINESS GROWTH SOCIAL @ NEXUSWebsite: www.classieehrhard.com/businessgrowthsocial
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Wednesday, January 8th Bottom Line: God desires to use you! God desires to use everyone, but not everyone desires to be used. Isaiah 6:1-4 NIV 1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” 4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. To be used by God I must see Him properly. Isaiah 6:5-7 NIV 5 “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.” To be used by God I must see myself properly. Long before we can minister to others, you must first allow God to minister to you. Isaiah 6:8 NIV 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” To be used by God I must respond to the needs I see. Your availability is needed more than your ability. God doesn’t call the equipped, but equips the called. Matthew 9:37-38 NIV 37 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. 38 Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” Isaiah 6:9-13 NIV 9 He said, “Go and tell this people: “‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.” 11 Then I said, “For how long, Lord?” And he answered: “Until the cities lie ruined and without inhabitant, until the houses are left deserted and the fields ruined and ravaged, 12 until the Lord has sent everyone far away and the land is utterly forsaken. 13 And though a tenth remains in the land, it will again be laid waste. But as the terebinth and oak leave stumps when they are cut down, so the holy seed will be the stump in the land.” BL: God desires to use you.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, January 5th What does God want from me in 2020? God is never pleased when people he cares for are being treated poorly. Micah 6:1-5 NIV 1 Listen to what the Lord says: “Stand up, plead my case before the mountains; let the hills hear what you have to say. 2 “Hear, you mountains, the Lord’s accusation; listen, you everlasting foundations of the earth. For the Lord has a case against his people; he is lodging a charge against Israel. 3 My people, what have I done to you? How have I burdened you? Answer me. 4 I brought you up out of Egypt and redeemed you from the land of slavery. I sent Moses to lead you, also Aaron and Miriam. 5 My people, remember what Balak king of Moab plotted and what Balaam son of Beor answered. Remember your journey from Shittim to Gilgal, that you may know the righteous acts of the Lord.” We have a tendency to focus on things that have not gone our way and we forget what God has already done for us. Micah 6:6-7 NIV 6 With what shall I come before the Lord and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? 7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? The sins of the Israelites were hidden beneath routine religious activity that didn’t actually come from their heart. Matthew 23:23-28 NIV 23 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24 You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel. 25 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. 27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. Micah 6:8 NIV 8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 NIrV 8 People of Israel, the Lord has shown you what is good. He has told you what He requires of you. You must treat people fairly. You must love others faithfully. And you must be very careful to live the way your God wants you to. Without love, holiness of heart, and righteousness of life, flowing from faith in Christ, all our church goings, forms of prayer, and almsgiving profit us nothing. A.R. Fausset The piety that god approves consists of three elements: a strict adherence to that which is equitable in all dealings with our fellowmen; a heart determined to do them good; and diligent care to live in close and intimate fellowship with God. C.L Feinberg James 1:27 NIV 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. Matthew 22:35-40 NIV 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” What does God want from me in 2020? BL: In 2020 God wants me to love Him supremely and love people unconditionally.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, December 29th Christmas Story / Way Maker Song…. I see this playing out! Teenage girl getting ready to be married. God gets her pregnant to make a way for the savior of the world. (Not what she expected) Matthew 1:18 Jospeh engaged to Mary, learns of her pregnancy. Thinks about leaving her... why? Because this isn’t what He expected. Matthew 1:20 The census (not expected) Luke 2:-12 The location of the birth (not expected) Luke 2:6-7 For 400 years God was silent. People were wondering if God even existed. And then He shows up like this!!! To the most unexpected people, doing the most unexpected things. God is less concerned about our plans and more concerned about our purpose. God didn’t care about Joseph and Mary’s plans… He cared about their purpose… To bring a savior to the world. Maybe God didn’t make a way, the way you expected. Maybe God didn’t work the miracle you expected. Maybe God didn’t keep the promise you expected Him to keep. Maybe God didn’t show up and bring light to your darkness the way you expected. The biggest issue is…. Our expectations are not Gods responsibility. Instead... Our responsibility is to live out Gods expectations. What are Gods expectations: follow me, trust me, have faith and be obedient. It might not look the way I expected but He is still MY GOD. “For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 And I can know that.... even when I don’t feel it He’s working. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 I love that promise... but look at the next verse: “In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord.” Jeremiah 29:12-14 Gods silence does not mean He is absent. When God doesn’t meet our expectations, we must assume He did/ or is doing something even better. Our expeditions are limited by our own knowledge and wisdom. We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps Prov. 16:9 Even when God doesn’t do it my way, He’s still My God! And I will trust Him, follow Him and find joy in Him no matter what way He makes. Because He’s My God. And MY GOD know what’s best for MY LIFE!
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Sunday, December 22nd Luke 2:10 NIV 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. WHY? Mary had a little lamb His fleece was white as snow. John 1:29 NIV 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! Revelation 5:1-5 NIV Then I saw in the right hand of him who sat on the throne a scroll with writing on both sides and sealed with seven seals. 2 And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” 3 But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth could open the scroll or even look inside it. 4 I wept and wept because no one was found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside. 5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” The number 7 indicates totality and completeness. Only God Himself is worthy and has authority to be sovereign of His plans. Isaiah 9:6-7 NIV 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. Revelation 5:6a. NIV 6 Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, John uses the word anion 28X’s in revelation. It means sheep, lamb or little lamb. The Lamb was slain at a point in time, but the efficacy of His death is still present in all it’s power. Hebrews 9:11-14 NIV 11 But when Christ came as high priest of the good things that are now already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not made with human hands, that is to say, is not a part of this creation. 12 He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, thus obtaining[b] eternal redemption. 13 The blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. 14 How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death,[c] so that we may serve the living God! Revelation 5:6b NIV standing at the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders. The Lamb had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits[a] of God sent out into all the earth. 7 Horns - totality of power 7 eyes/7 Spirits - fullness of God’s presence through the Spirit Revelation 5:7-8 7 He went and took the scroll from the right hand of him who sat on the throne. 8 And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. Primary prayers for Jews - deliverance from bondage and restoration of the kingdom. Revelation 5:9a. NIV 9 And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, Through the cross the true purpose of God is revealed to us. Not just that Israel would be restored but that the whole of the created order would be restored. Psalm 8:4-8 NIV 4 what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? 5 You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor. 6 You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their[e] feet: 7 all flocks and herds, and the animals of the wild, 8 the birds in the sky, and the fish in the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. At the cross, Jesus Christ took back dominion for humankind by destroying the power of sin and death. Christians are not waiting to go to heaven. Christians are waiting for heaven to come to us. Revelation 21:1-4 NIV 1 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” ESV Study Bible - The earth will not always be tyrannized by satan and destroyed by his followers. The first heaven and earth, stained by the curse through human sin, will be replaced by a new heaven and earth in which Christ’s Saints will reign in righteousness. Revelation 5:9b NIV and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. Luke 2:10 NIV 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Genesis 12:1-3 NIV 1 The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Revelation 5:10 NIV 10 You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.” In this new Kingdom we will have unfettered and uninhibited access to God and He will be with us forever. Revelation 5:11-12 NIV 11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12 In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” The Lamb here receives the same ascriptions of praise as well as other ascriptions normally reserved for God. If the Lamb is worthy of praise He must be God. The baby boy we celebrate the birth of at Christmas time is God incarnate. Bottom Line: Mary had a little lamb who is worthy of all praise because He is God! Where does worship of the Lamb rank in your life? Revelation 5:13 NIV 13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying: “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” Bottom Line: Mary had a little lamb who is worthy of all praise because He is God!!!
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org Sermon Notes Wednesday, December 11th When we make plans we factor in comfort for ourselves and for those involved. When God creates a plan he does not consider your comfort or what is easiest when he makes the plan. Bottom Line: God’s plan is perfect, but painful. Matthew 1:18-25 18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). 24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. There is no such thing as a Christian that does not affirm the virgin birth. The virgin birth is foundational to the Christian doctrine of salvation. The one that came to deal with sin had to be sinless. It was the virgin birth that made the sinless nature of Jesus possible. The sin nature theologically speaking was passed down to each generation through the father. Are you saying that if I can’t believe in the virgin birth then I can’t be a Christian? Without the virgin birth there is no such thing as Christians. What is the greatest miracle to occur in the Bible that is scientifically viable? God himself will come to become a human and live a sinless life so that he could offer himself as a sacrifice to pay the penalty for sin. To the Jewish people in that day betrothal or engagement was equivalent to marriage. There is a reason it had to be a virgin birth, but it was the fact that there was a virgin birth that made the plan so painful. Bottom Line: God’s plan is perfect, but painful. We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 Sermon Notes Luke 2:1-20 1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:10 NIV 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. WHY? Mary had a little lamb His fleece was white as snow. John 1:29 NIV 29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! The lamb of God theme runs throughout the whole of scripture. It starts in Genesis and goes through Revelation in one way or another. Genesis 22:1-2 NIV 1 Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. 2 Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” Could you imagine being Abraham in this situation? Genesis 22:3 NIV 3 Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. Genesis 22:4-5 NIV 4 On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. 5 He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.” We will come back. Genesis 22:6-7 NIV 6 Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, 7 Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father? “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Where is the lamb? Genesis 22:8 NIV 8 Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together. vs.8 NASB Abraham said, “God will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” So the two of them walked on together. God has a lamb. God will provide that lamb. The lamb is as much for God as it is for us. Genesis 22:9 NIV 9 When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. How did Abraham get Isaac on that wood? We have a son who carries wood on his back up a mountain. Then he lays down voluntarily on the wood to be the needed sacrifice. Sound familiar? Genesis 22:10 NIV 10 Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. Genesis 22:11-12 NIV 11 But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. 12 “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” Isaac was as good as dead and now is quite alive. Genesis 22:13 NIV 13 Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram[a] caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. Abraham said, God will provide a lamb. But, what he found was a ram. Luke 2:11-12 NIV 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Bottom Line: Jesus is the long awaited Lamb of God and that is good news for everyone. The Christmas story would not be good news if it were not for the death of Jesus.
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85 SERMON NOTES The majority of us love a good narrative! we like stories! What makes stories better is a plot. knowing there’s a plan. When we hear the Christmas story, it's nice and all, but sometimes that's where it ends. What if you were told that the Christmas story isn't the beginning of a story at all? It's a part of the plot. Not just any part, but the plot-twist! God created a perfect place for perfection & humanity's sin separated us from that goodness. The story is action packed from there--floods, plagues, slavery, kings, prophets, promised lands...you name it. God offered solution after solution for his people, but nothing stuck. We were doomed. Silence fell on God's people for centuries. But just when we least expected it, God provided a permanent solution...Himself. Talk about a plot-twist! Without knowing the beginning, it's hard to fully understand and appreciate what exactly we're celebrating with Christmas. It's like showing up at the movie theater and sitting in an hour after it starts...do you really expect to fully understand what's going on?!? Of course not. Luke 1:26-27 26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. It's speculated that Mary was around 15 years old when she gave birth. This was a common age for women to be engaged and married in that time and culture. Joseph and Mary would have been an average couple in Israel: poor, occupation undervalued (carpenter), and looked down on by most religious leaders at the time. Both were descendants of King David; however, at this point in history, David's lineage was in the poorest state it had ever been. Mary was also related to traditional priest families of Israel through her cousin, Elizabeth. Nazareth, where they lived, was a small hill town on a caravan route through the country. There was a center, imagine resort-ish, for the temple priests, where they could come and pray and fast when not on temple duty. So, a wide range of people would travel and visit a town like Nazareth. Mary was engaged to marry Joseph. Under Jewish law this was a legal contract that could only be broken by an official divorce. Considering all of this, it only describes Mary by external factors and things she didn't really have a lot of control over: home life, family history, age, and social status. But, check out what happens next! Luke 1: 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Gabriel, the angel that visited Mary, is often known as God's chief messenger angel. He only appears a few times in the Bible and to very key people. The first words that Gabriel spoke to Mary are very important words! Highly favored can be translated as 'God's holy grace is upon you." This is a divine blessing from God; something that would have never normally been said to a peasant girl like Mary. Favor can share meaning with Gift. Just as Mary received God's favor, He gives each of us the same chance. Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— God's glory was to make favor a reality for all who accept His gift of grace!His fully human experience while being fully God was so that He could be the perfect plot twist we desperately needed! Luke 1: 29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. Mary would have been very afraid. Mary's encounter was like nothing I've ever experienced. Her fear was clearly evident based on what the angel says, Luke 1: 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” Luke 1: 34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Mary would have been very surprised with what the angel said. As far as she's aware, only very important people had encounters with the Holy Spirit. This whole experience wouldn't have made any sense to Mary. What experiences in your life didn't make sense? Luke 1: 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.” 38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. "For nothing will be impossible with God." - the Angel Gabriel (ESV) What a promise!?! What impossible things are a part of your past, your present, your story? Elizabeth, referenced here, was advanced in years yet God promised her a child. God keeps His promises. Just a few of God's promises: Exodus 14:14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still. Proverbs 22:6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Isaiah 40:29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Malachi 3:10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. John 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. James 4:7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. Nothing is impossible to God & God can use seemingly impossible stories to put His Glory center stage! If you could just step back from the spotlight & give God his due glory, He will transform and shape your story! Like MARY, we need to learn that phrase, "I am The Lord's servant." A servant doesn't have the lead role. Mary, maybe knowing, maybe not, is foreshadowing the words her son would soon speak... Mark 10:45, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mary let's God's glory shape her story. Bottom Line: Let God's Glory shape your story Don't be blindsided, your story might get gory before it gets glory. Consider Mary...considered unfaithful, poor, law breaker, and too young. Also Mary...highly favored, chosen, willing, and humble servant -- who's story became a platform for God's greatest moment of Glory! This Christmas story isn't the beginning of God's glory. BUT it can bring a new beginning to your story. This Christmas story isn't the end of God's glory. You can help write the ongoing pages with your story. Are you letting God's Glory shape your story?
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
Southridge Church is on a mission to be the perfect place for imperfect people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ--impacting lives around the corner and around the world. Experience impactful teaching and incredible music at Southridge Church Sunday mornings at 9:00 and 11:00, plus experience Catalyst on Wednesdays at 6:30pm! Connect on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: SRCWV www.southridge.org We Before Me. We Are Better Together. We Never Stop Growing. Contact a pastor: @PastorScottBeha @michaelcoker85
God’s plan for people has always been community! Doing life together…celebrating with each other, helping each other in tough times. As much as we live in a digital world, with online communities and new ways of connecting. I need REAL friends MORE than facebook friends! How about you? WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!
Pastor Scott Kujath The post We Are Better Together appeared first on PINE VALLEY CHURCH.
Foundations Church exists to make Jesus famous in all that we do. Everything we do as a church is shaped around that statement! Our values are a process that each of us are continually going through to live that out every single day. FC is a place where: Lost People Become Found People, Growing Equals Changing, Found People Find People, We Are Better Together, and Saved People Serve People.
We Are Better Together by Aarynton Smith
[Convo at 6:03] No-one can brunch like black girls can! The beautiful story of Black Girl Magic Phoenix begins with two young ladies each looking to start a movement of creating spaces where black women can organically create magic together! WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER! Gaybrielle Gant sits in the guest chair and talks about her love for Spelman College, her divine union with co-founder Deanna Reid to create BGMPhx, and how they have hosted multiple sold out brunch experiences "where strangers become sister-friends". This episode is full of MAGIC and you DO NOT WANT TO MISS IT! Be sure to follow @blackgirlmagicphx and @blackgirlsbrunch on Instagram to stay tuned for more events hosted by this dynamic duo! Their website, www.blackgirlmagicphx.com is full of great upcoming events, black girl features and dynamic blogs to keep your black girl magic cup full! Intro Music: "Geechie Low country" by American Foreign (Produced by ApolloTone) Listen to his full album "7even 7ummers" on Apple Music, Tidal, Google Play, Spotify and more by searching AMERICAN FOREIGN. Intro Music: "Geechie Low country" by American Foreign (Produced by ApolloTone) Listen to his full album "7even 7ummers" on Apple Music, Tidal, Google Play, Spotify and more by searching AMERICAN FOREIGN
"We Are Better Together" by Pastor Jeff Baker in the "Core Values" series on July 12, 2015 at New Life in Kearney, NE.
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