The sermon after Christmas
A cafeteria line of thoughts
The census brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem
1.Counting, or taking inventory, is an essential step in organization and moving forward. In preparing to enter the Promised Land Israel had to be organized - God is an organized God, and moves through organization even when we can’t figure it out! Therefore it was essential that Israel took inventory and saw where they were.
God counts things. He counts the stars and has a name for each one (Psalm 147:4; 3. Isaiah 40:26). God even counts and knows the number of hairs on your head! (Matthew 10:30)
Our Lives- God wants us to take inventory of who we are Luke 2:1
Our City- God wants us to take inventory of where we live Luke 2:3
Our Commitment- God wants us to follow through with what he has given us to do
Luke 2:39
2. Confirmation luke 2:19, Luke 2:26, Luke 2:36
3. Continuing luke 2:40
I wonder how many time the slaves of Egypt had planned to break free from there human slavery? It was reported this week that 4 inmates in the Bexar county jail had planned to escape. With the help of a guard they had what they needed. The plot was foiled when they discovered the hacksaws and the ropes they made with bed sheets.
Human plans are just that, Human, what is needed is supernatural intervention.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
not to soon
It is not to soon to start thinking about the new year. Actually if you've done some thinking about it you running alittle late. Here is a thought to run with.
10 IS THE NUMBER OF DIVINE PERFECTION. There are 10 commandments (Ex. 20); 1/10 of your income is a tithe; the were 10 plagues on Egypt (Ex. 9:14ff); 10 x 10 silver sockets formed the foundation of the Tabernacle (Ex 38:27); There are 10 "I AM's spoken by Jesus in John: 1) I am the Bread of Life (6:35); 2) I am the Bread of Life which came down from heaven (6:41); 3) I am the Living Bread (6:51); 4) I am the Light of the world (8:12); 5) I am One that bears witness of Myself (8:18); 6) I am the Door of the sheep (10:7,9); 7) I am the Good Shepherd (10:14); 8) I am the Resurrection and the Life (14:6); 9) I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (11:25); and 10) I am the True Vine (15:1,5).
10 - Biblical Meaning of Number: deals with completeness that happens in a divine order or completed during a course of time. There's nothing that is left wanting within the complete cycle the number ten has just completed.
10 - Ordinal perfection, perfection of order or rank.
It seems to me that 2010 should be a year in which we? I'll leave that up to you.
10 IS THE NUMBER OF DIVINE PERFECTION. There are 10 commandments (Ex. 20); 1/10 of your income is a tithe; the were 10 plagues on Egypt (Ex. 9:14ff); 10 x 10 silver sockets formed the foundation of the Tabernacle (Ex 38:27); There are 10 "I AM's spoken by Jesus in John: 1) I am the Bread of Life (6:35); 2) I am the Bread of Life which came down from heaven (6:41); 3) I am the Living Bread (6:51); 4) I am the Light of the world (8:12); 5) I am One that bears witness of Myself (8:18); 6) I am the Door of the sheep (10:7,9); 7) I am the Good Shepherd (10:14); 8) I am the Resurrection and the Life (14:6); 9) I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life (11:25); and 10) I am the True Vine (15:1,5).
10 - Biblical Meaning of Number: deals with completeness that happens in a divine order or completed during a course of time. There's nothing that is left wanting within the complete cycle the number ten has just completed.
10 - Ordinal perfection, perfection of order or rank.
It seems to me that 2010 should be a year in which we? I'll leave that up to you.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Holy Day or Holiday
The old Christmas song says, "It’s the most wonderful time of the year." And for the Christian it should ring true. Yet for many, Christmas is a season to survive. Depression, grief and loneliness are often exacerbated by shattered family circumstances and increased debt loads. Christmas calendars are overloaded, causing us to think in terms of "getting through the holidays." We are left to wonder if the "postcard" Christmas exists anymore. What happened to the snowy white Yuletide of childhood?
Christmas has been hijacked by cynics, exploited by capitalists, and trampled by consumers. Christmas cheer comes under a withering attack. The checkout lines go on forever; we growl and whine when only one of 10 registers is open. There is no charity in the mall parking lot; we hunt the elusive parking space like wolves. Cheap-suited Santas charge a king’s ransom for a picture of little Eddie or Tiffany crying. December is full of long, clamorous days culminating in the wearied singing of "Silent Night." Exhausted by cantatas, parties, shopping, feasting, families and travel, we arrive at the Bethlehem manger suffering from heat prostration. Christmas Eve will find us lifting up our weary voices to sing, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come." Then we rush from the service to get one last gift, or visit one last party.
So soon it is over. We save the bows, burn the wrappings, strip the tree, and labor over our New Year’s resolutions. Too often we have missed the point. We’re like the man who goes to the coast but never sees the ocean. The threat of a holiday hijacking is all too real. Unless we engage our hearts in a true celebration of Christmas joy, we are easily caught up in a pointless and mindless holiday. When we lose sight of the meaning of Christmas, the season is deeply devalued.
Isaiah saw religious celebration divorced from true worship. The people loved their feasts and festivals, but they lost their perspective. God speaks words through Isaiah that fall like a blow: "The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies — I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; they are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them" (Isaiah 1:13,14, NKJV). The children of Israel turned their holy days into holidays and God declined to be added to the guest list. If Isaiah were around today, he could well offer the same prophecy without changing a single word.
The true spirit of a Christian Christmas must be reestablished in our hearts and homes. All is not lost. The ultimate story of God’s love is still true. The glory is still there to be witnessed by seekers. How shall we truly experience the joy of Christmas? How can we define a true "Christmas spirit"?
Christmas has been hijacked by cynics, exploited by capitalists, and trampled by consumers. Christmas cheer comes under a withering attack. The checkout lines go on forever; we growl and whine when only one of 10 registers is open. There is no charity in the mall parking lot; we hunt the elusive parking space like wolves. Cheap-suited Santas charge a king’s ransom for a picture of little Eddie or Tiffany crying. December is full of long, clamorous days culminating in the wearied singing of "Silent Night." Exhausted by cantatas, parties, shopping, feasting, families and travel, we arrive at the Bethlehem manger suffering from heat prostration. Christmas Eve will find us lifting up our weary voices to sing, "Joy to the world, the Lord is come." Then we rush from the service to get one last gift, or visit one last party.
So soon it is over. We save the bows, burn the wrappings, strip the tree, and labor over our New Year’s resolutions. Too often we have missed the point. We’re like the man who goes to the coast but never sees the ocean. The threat of a holiday hijacking is all too real. Unless we engage our hearts in a true celebration of Christmas joy, we are easily caught up in a pointless and mindless holiday. When we lose sight of the meaning of Christmas, the season is deeply devalued.
Isaiah saw religious celebration divorced from true worship. The people loved their feasts and festivals, but they lost their perspective. God speaks words through Isaiah that fall like a blow: "The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies — I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting. Your New Moons and your appointed feasts My soul hates; they are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them" (Isaiah 1:13,14, NKJV). The children of Israel turned their holy days into holidays and God declined to be added to the guest list. If Isaiah were around today, he could well offer the same prophecy without changing a single word.
The true spirit of a Christian Christmas must be reestablished in our hearts and homes. All is not lost. The ultimate story of God’s love is still true. The glory is still there to be witnessed by seekers. How shall we truly experience the joy of Christmas? How can we define a true "Christmas spirit"?
Sunday, December 6, 2009
4 Reasons to be Joyful
During the Christmas season we are reminded that we are to be people who have joy. The truth is many have no joy. We forget the following.
1. We have Personal Significance. God loves us and proved it by sending Jesus to die for us.
2. We have the Promises of Scripture. the word of God is true. The word never fails.
3. We have the Pardon of sin. Thank God that ours sins are taken away by the blood of Jesus.
4. We have Participation with the Family of God. we can build good relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
The joy of the Lord is our strength. Rejoice in the Lord always.
1. We have Personal Significance. God loves us and proved it by sending Jesus to die for us.
2. We have the Promises of Scripture. the word of God is true. The word never fails.
3. We have the Pardon of sin. Thank God that ours sins are taken away by the blood of Jesus.
4. We have Participation with the Family of God. we can build good relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
The joy of the Lord is our strength. Rejoice in the Lord always.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
The Joy of Christmas part 1
Of all the wonderful promises contained in the Christmas story, the one that seems to be missing the most is “great joy.” How many people do you meet that describe their life as being full of great joy? Yet that is the proclamation by the angels to the shepherds. The Savior of the world would bring good news of great joy for all people. Angels declared joy. Wise men were filled with joy. Mary and Joseph were amazed with joy. The shepherds returned with rejoicing in their hearts. Even John the Baptitst leaped for joy in Elizabeth’s womb.
We could prepare a long list of all the reasons people give for the lack joy in their lives. Some of the general categories include; sickness, stress (physical and emotional), setbacks, suffering, struggles of life, sin in our personal life, and sin in the world. One important aspect of the shepherd’s story that we must consider before identifying some key factors of joy is the unchanging circumstances of their lives. When they returned after seeing the baby Jesus, they were still financially poor. They were still considered the lowest class of the social structure. Sheep still smelled bad and required constant care. They returned to the same wife and kids they had before Jesus was born, but they rejoiced! Their response illustrates a secret to joy that many miss. Circumstances contribute to joy, but they do not control joy.
We could prepare a long list of all the reasons people give for the lack joy in their lives. Some of the general categories include; sickness, stress (physical and emotional), setbacks, suffering, struggles of life, sin in our personal life, and sin in the world. One important aspect of the shepherd’s story that we must consider before identifying some key factors of joy is the unchanging circumstances of their lives. When they returned after seeing the baby Jesus, they were still financially poor. They were still considered the lowest class of the social structure. Sheep still smelled bad and required constant care. They returned to the same wife and kids they had before Jesus was born, but they rejoiced! Their response illustrates a secret to joy that many miss. Circumstances contribute to joy, but they do not control joy.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Always Christmas
The Christmas season is here again. For the business world it is the season to make money. For the student is a time to take a break. For families it is time to make plans for travel and gatherings.
For the Christian and the Church, Christmas should be business as usual. The message of Christmas is not seasonal for the Body of Christ. The birth of our Lord is part of the gospel message that we proclaim everyday. The birth of JESUS is clebrated everytime we gather as God's people.
For the Christian and the Church, Christmas should be business as usual. The message of Christmas is not seasonal for the Body of Christ. The birth of our Lord is part of the gospel message that we proclaim everyday. The birth of JESUS is clebrated everytime we gather as God's people.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Giving Thanks
We are truly blessed and we have much to give thanks for. The list is long. Here are a few blessings.
My family- I am blessed to have a great family who have been so good to me.
My health- I am so blessed to be in good health and happy to be living with purpose
My Church- I am blessed to be apart of a group of people who love and support me.
I thank God that my best days are ahead of me. My future is bright and I am blessed to live in a great nation, state and city. I wanted to thank God for every blessing that I know comes from Him and Him alone. To God be the glory for every perfect gift that come from above.
Have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The Lepers Healed
I came a across an interesting thought as I was reading in Luke 17:11-21 about the healing of the ten lepers. It says that Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem. Jesus was always on the right road. He knew where He was destined to go. When I read "As he passed between Samaria and Galilee" this thought came to me. Lepers where the outcasts of society. The sickness of the leper is the physical example of what sin does spiritually to man.
Sin is sin and there are no degrees of it. Sin is a condition. Just remember what got Adam and Eve in trouble. It was eating a fruit. Jesus passed through Samaria and Galilee because there were lepers who were gentiles and lepers who were Jews. The Samarian leper is a reminder of the those who are living in the world away from Christ and doing there own thing. The worldly leper does not darken the door of the Church house because his world is the fulfilment of fleshly desires. The Jewish leper is a reminder of those who are living in the world of legalism and religion. The religious leper lives under the bondage of self righteousness and the letter of the law.
Both the worldly leper and the religious leper need healing. Jesus Heals them both but only the worldly leper comes back to say thanks. The truth is most worldly lepers turn into religious lepers if there not careful. Lets remember where Jesus found us. We were lost in our sin and away from God. Lets return to the Lord our healer and once again say thanks and maybe more importantly say Lord touch me again and make me whole.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
The One Who Said Thanks
Luke 17:11-19
It happened as he was on his way to Jerusalem,
that he was passing along the borders of Samaria and Galilee.
As he entered into a certain village, ten men who were lepers met him,
who stood at a distance.
They lifted up their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"
When he saw them, he said to them,
"Go and show yourselves to the priests."
It happened that as they went, they were cleansed.
One of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice.
He fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks; and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus answered, "Weren’t the ten cleansed? But where are the nine?
Were there none found who returned to give glory to God, except this stranger?"
Then he said to him, "Get up, and go your way. Your faith has healed you."
It happened as he was on his way to Jerusalem,
that he was passing along the borders of Samaria and Galilee.
As he entered into a certain village, ten men who were lepers met him,
who stood at a distance.
They lifted up their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"
When he saw them, he said to them,
"Go and show yourselves to the priests."
It happened that as they went, they were cleansed.
One of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice.
He fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks; and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus answered, "Weren’t the ten cleansed? But where are the nine?
Were there none found who returned to give glory to God, except this stranger?"
Then he said to him, "Get up, and go your way. Your faith has healed you."
Thursday, November 12, 2009
What Christians Should Do
Colossians 4:2-18
V2 Continue to pray and be aware of what you should pray for. Always give thanks to God.(we need to learn to pray specifically)
V3 Pray for us. Ask God to give opportunities to preach our message. We want to tell people God’s plan about Christ. I am in prison for doing this.(it is important to ask others to be in prayer for you. We need to pray for open doors to share the Gospel)
V4 Pray that I shall be able to preach the message of the Gospel in a clear way.(we need to present a clear message of the good news)
V5 Behave wisely among people who are not Christian. Use every opportunity in the very best way.
V6 When you talk, you should say kind things. Have good conversation. Answer every
person in the right way.
V7 Tychicus a loyal helper,
V8 Be encouraged
V9 Onesimus a loyal brother.
V10 Aristarchus and Mark prisoners with Paul
V10 Mark a success story
V11 Justus a servant of a Jesus
V11 Epaphras prayer warrior/ his prayer 1. that they would mature 2. for confidence
3. to do all that God wants you to do.
V14 Demas and Dr. Luke /2 Timothy 4: 9-11(Demas did not finish well)
V15 Nympha and the house church.(The house Church model is relevent and real)
V16 Read the letters to the Church
V17 Tell Archippus to complete his God given assignment (sometimes easy to start but tough to finish)
V18 Paul signs off and asks for them to remember him. He extends a blessing
V2 Continue to pray and be aware of what you should pray for. Always give thanks to God.(we need to learn to pray specifically)
V3 Pray for us. Ask God to give opportunities to preach our message. We want to tell people God’s plan about Christ. I am in prison for doing this.(it is important to ask others to be in prayer for you. We need to pray for open doors to share the Gospel)
V4 Pray that I shall be able to preach the message of the Gospel in a clear way.(we need to present a clear message of the good news)
V5 Behave wisely among people who are not Christian. Use every opportunity in the very best way.
V6 When you talk, you should say kind things. Have good conversation. Answer every
person in the right way.
V7 Tychicus a loyal helper,
V8 Be encouraged
V9 Onesimus a loyal brother.
V10 Aristarchus and Mark prisoners with Paul
V10 Mark a success story
V11 Justus a servant of a Jesus
V11 Epaphras prayer warrior/ his prayer 1. that they would mature 2. for confidence
3. to do all that God wants you to do.
V14 Demas and Dr. Luke /2 Timothy 4: 9-11(Demas did not finish well)
V15 Nympha and the house church.(The house Church model is relevent and real)
V16 Read the letters to the Church
V17 Tell Archippus to complete his God given assignment (sometimes easy to start but tough to finish)
V18 Paul signs off and asks for them to remember him. He extends a blessing
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Miracles Teach us how to Overcome
Jesus Calms the Storm/ Jesus Walks on Water
Mathew 8:23 Mathew 14:22
Jesus calms the outward and the inward storm.
The inward storm was directly related to the outward storm.
Trusting God to take care of the outward brings peace in the inward.
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Jesus walks on the water as a teaching for us to use our faith to stand on top of our issues.
Trust God when you take your step of faith. He will be there for you always.
Mathew 8:23 Mathew 14:22
Jesus calms the outward and the inward storm.
The inward storm was directly related to the outward storm.
Trusting God to take care of the outward brings peace in the inward.
<><
Jesus walks on the water as a teaching for us to use our faith to stand on top of our issues.
Trust God when you take your step of faith. He will be there for you always.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Water to Wine
The First Miracle of Jesus
John 2: 1-11
John 20: 30-31
Let’s look at the miracle
Water to Wine
Look for Miracles in the everyday celebrations of life
Look for the miracles that come through change
Look for your role in the miracles for others
Remember that God manifest His glory for the purpose of drawing us closer to Him
John 2: 1-11
John 20: 30-31
Let’s look at the miracle
Water to Wine
Look for Miracles in the everyday celebrations of life
Look for the miracles that come through change
Look for your role in the miracles for others
Remember that God manifest His glory for the purpose of drawing us closer to Him
Miracles of Jesus
I'm going to begin a new series of messages about the miracles of Jesus. Here is the listI have to work from. I am beginning with the water turned to wine miracle.
The Miracles of Jesus as recorded in the Bible
• Turning water into wine (John 2:1-11)
• Healing of a nobleman's son (John 4:46-54)
• Delivering a man in the synagogue from demonic spirits (Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37)
• Healing Peter's mother-in-law (Mark 1:29-31; Luke 4:38-39; Matthew 8:14-15)
• The first of two nets of fish and the calling of His first disciples (Luke 5:1-11)
• Cleansing a leper (Mark 1:40-45; Matthew 8:1-4)
• Healing a paralytic (Mark 2:1-12; Matthew 9:2-8; Luke 5:17-26)
• Healing of the man at Bethesda (John 5:1-15)
• Healing a man with a withered hand (Luke 6:6-11; Matthew 12:9-13; Mark 3:1-5)
• Healing the Centurion's servant (Luke 7: 1-10; Matthew 8:5-13)
• Raising the widow's son (Luke 7:11-16)
• Casting out a dumb and blind spirit (Luke 11:14-26; Matthew 12:22-32; Mark 3:22-30)
• Calming a storm (Mark 4:35-41; Matthew 8:18-27; Luke 8:22-25)
• Healing a man possessed by demons at Gadara (Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28; Luke 8:26)
• Healing a woman with an issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34; Matthew 9:18-26; Luke 8:40-56)
• Raising Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:21-43)
• Healing of two blind men (Matthew 9:27-31
• Casting out a spirit (Matthew 9:32-34)
• Feeding 5,000 with five loaves and two fish (John 6:1-14; Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:32-44; Luke 9:10-17)
• Walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33; John 6:15-21; Mark 6:45-52)
• Delivering the Syrophoenician's daughter (Matthew 15:21-28)
• Healing a deaf and dumb man (Mark 7:31-37)
• Feeding another 4,000-plus (Mark 8:1-10; Matthew 15:32)
• Healing the blind man of Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26)
• Casting demons out of a lunatic boy (Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-42)
• Pulling a coin from the mouth of a fish (Matthew 17:24-27)
• Healing a man born blind (John 9:1-41)
• Healing a woman with an 18-year infirmity (Luke 13:10-17)
• Healing a man with dropsy (or edema) (Luke 14:1-6)
• Raising Lazarus (John 11:1-46)
• Cleansing of ten lepers (Luke 17:11-19)
• Healing blind Bartimeaus (Mark 10:46-52)
• Cursing the fig tree (Mark 11:12-26)
• Healing of Malchus' ear (Luke 22:49-51)
• A second net of fish (John 21:1-12)
“And there are also many other things which JESUS did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not be able to contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25
The Miracles of Jesus as recorded in the Bible
• Turning water into wine (John 2:1-11)
• Healing of a nobleman's son (John 4:46-54)
• Delivering a man in the synagogue from demonic spirits (Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37)
• Healing Peter's mother-in-law (Mark 1:29-31; Luke 4:38-39; Matthew 8:14-15)
• The first of two nets of fish and the calling of His first disciples (Luke 5:1-11)
• Cleansing a leper (Mark 1:40-45; Matthew 8:1-4)
• Healing a paralytic (Mark 2:1-12; Matthew 9:2-8; Luke 5:17-26)
• Healing of the man at Bethesda (John 5:1-15)
• Healing a man with a withered hand (Luke 6:6-11; Matthew 12:9-13; Mark 3:1-5)
• Healing the Centurion's servant (Luke 7: 1-10; Matthew 8:5-13)
• Raising the widow's son (Luke 7:11-16)
• Casting out a dumb and blind spirit (Luke 11:14-26; Matthew 12:22-32; Mark 3:22-30)
• Calming a storm (Mark 4:35-41; Matthew 8:18-27; Luke 8:22-25)
• Healing a man possessed by demons at Gadara (Mark 5:1-20; Matthew 8:28; Luke 8:26)
• Healing a woman with an issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34; Matthew 9:18-26; Luke 8:40-56)
• Raising Jairus' daughter (Mark 5:21-43)
• Healing of two blind men (Matthew 9:27-31
• Casting out a spirit (Matthew 9:32-34)
• Feeding 5,000 with five loaves and two fish (John 6:1-14; Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:32-44; Luke 9:10-17)
• Walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33; John 6:15-21; Mark 6:45-52)
• Delivering the Syrophoenician's daughter (Matthew 15:21-28)
• Healing a deaf and dumb man (Mark 7:31-37)
• Feeding another 4,000-plus (Mark 8:1-10; Matthew 15:32)
• Healing the blind man of Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26)
• Casting demons out of a lunatic boy (Mark 9:14-29; Matthew 17:14-21; Luke 9:37-42)
• Pulling a coin from the mouth of a fish (Matthew 17:24-27)
• Healing a man born blind (John 9:1-41)
• Healing a woman with an 18-year infirmity (Luke 13:10-17)
• Healing a man with dropsy (or edema) (Luke 14:1-6)
• Raising Lazarus (John 11:1-46)
• Cleansing of ten lepers (Luke 17:11-19)
• Healing blind Bartimeaus (Mark 10:46-52)
• Cursing the fig tree (Mark 11:12-26)
• Healing of Malchus' ear (Luke 22:49-51)
• A second net of fish (John 21:1-12)
“And there are also many other things which JESUS did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not be able to contain the books that would be written.” John 21:25
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Redeem the Time
October 31st to most means a time to trick or treat. I have come to appreciate October 31st for the reason that it provides a great platform from which to share the message of the Gospel. To redeem this day is huge because it is a perfect day to get a crowd with out having to spend a huge amount of money to market. An alternative to Halloween allows your church to meet new people and to get the people of the church engaged with the community.
Halloween is what it is. We cannot let the costumes of innocent children and silly adults stop us from opening our doors to provide hope during a time darkness. Here is what we have planned for our alternative to Halloween.
Live Christian Music
Live Drama presentation
Free food (hot dogs, sodas, hot coffee, popcorn, candy)
Games (bean bag toss, basketball throw, football toss, fish pond)
Big screen Christian videos
finger nail and face painting
during the FEST we will promote our church services, after school program and our new GED preparation center.
To get names we will be having giveaways and we will also take some surveys.
The icing on the cake for me is the invitation to receive Christ after our 3 drama presentations.
Halloween is what it is. We cannot let the costumes of innocent children and silly adults stop us from opening our doors to provide hope during a time darkness. Here is what we have planned for our alternative to Halloween.
Live Christian Music
Live Drama presentation
Free food (hot dogs, sodas, hot coffee, popcorn, candy)
Games (bean bag toss, basketball throw, football toss, fish pond)
Big screen Christian videos
finger nail and face painting
during the FEST we will promote our church services, after school program and our new GED preparation center.
To get names we will be having giveaways and we will also take some surveys.
The icing on the cake for me is the invitation to receive Christ after our 3 drama presentations.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The Collision of the light into the Darkness
Luke 7:11-17
Flying on one occasion I had the opportunity to witness what happens when you cross the international dateline. You go from the darkness of night to the brightness of full day instantaneously. In the battle of light verse darkness the light will always win.
City on our Knees by TobyMac
If you gotta start somewhere why not here
If you gotta start sometime why not now
If we gotta start somewhere I say here
If we gotta start sometime I say now
Through the fog there is hope in the distance
From cathedrals to third world missions
Love will fall to the earth like a crashing wave
Tonight’s the night
For the sinners and the saints
Two worlds collide in a beautiful display
It’s all love tonight
When we step across the line
We can sail across the sea
To a city with one king
A city on our knees
A city on our knees
We must see ourselves as light colliding with the darkness
In the story of the funeral out of Nain(luke 7:11-17) The woman did not have a husband nor a son. There was no male to support her. Jesus responded with compassion. The Greek word for “compassion” implies strong emotion - “Do not weep.”
A New Miracle. Then Jesus did something that violated Jewish law. He touched the coffin. That was an act of religious defilement (Num. 19:11, 16). Jesus ignored their rules. Jesus interupeted a funeral. This week will we interupt the procession that we call Halloween?
3 things to remember about Jesus
He Had Compassion
He reached out and touched the untouchable
He interrupted the funeral
Flying on one occasion I had the opportunity to witness what happens when you cross the international dateline. You go from the darkness of night to the brightness of full day instantaneously. In the battle of light verse darkness the light will always win.
City on our Knees by TobyMac
If you gotta start somewhere why not here
If you gotta start sometime why not now
If we gotta start somewhere I say here
If we gotta start sometime I say now
Through the fog there is hope in the distance
From cathedrals to third world missions
Love will fall to the earth like a crashing wave
Tonight’s the night
For the sinners and the saints
Two worlds collide in a beautiful display
It’s all love tonight
When we step across the line
We can sail across the sea
To a city with one king
A city on our knees
A city on our knees
We must see ourselves as light colliding with the darkness
In the story of the funeral out of Nain(luke 7:11-17) The woman did not have a husband nor a son. There was no male to support her. Jesus responded with compassion. The Greek word for “compassion” implies strong emotion - “Do not weep.”
A New Miracle. Then Jesus did something that violated Jewish law. He touched the coffin. That was an act of religious defilement (Num. 19:11, 16). Jesus ignored their rules. Jesus interupeted a funeral. This week will we interupt the procession that we call Halloween?
3 things to remember about Jesus
He Had Compassion
He reached out and touched the untouchable
He interrupted the funeral
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Marks of Spiritual Maturity
"Marks of Spiritual Maturity”
Colossians 2: 1-7
How do you measure up? Does this list sound like you?
1. faithfulness in difficult times (2a)
2. love in our relationships(2b)
3. growth in knowledge and understanding (2c)
4. discernment in confusing times (4)
5. disciplined in discipleship (5)
6. consistent in daily living (6)
7. overflowing with gratitude (7)
Colossians 2: 1-7
How do you measure up? Does this list sound like you?
1. faithfulness in difficult times (2a)
2. love in our relationships(2b)
3. growth in knowledge and understanding (2c)
4. discernment in confusing times (4)
5. disciplined in discipleship (5)
6. consistent in daily living (6)
7. overflowing with gratitude (7)
Sunday, October 18, 2009
The Harvest
The Harvest …lift up your eyes and look on to the fields that they are white for harvest.
John 4:35 .
Acts 16
1.Vision -You have to have a vision for a world that needs Jesus
2.Voyage -You have to be willing to go tell the Good News about Jesus
3.Victory- You have to see every soul that is won for Jesus as a victory
4 places to reach
Acts 16
The seeker- those that are seeking a new life vs 14
The slave- those that are addicted vs16
The secure- those whose world has been stable and now is turned upside down vs 23
The suicidal- those who are at the end of themselves vs 27
John 4:35 .
Acts 16
1.Vision -You have to have a vision for a world that needs Jesus
2.Voyage -You have to be willing to go tell the Good News about Jesus
3.Victory- You have to see every soul that is won for Jesus as a victory
4 places to reach
Acts 16
The seeker- those that are seeking a new life vs 14
The slave- those that are addicted vs16
The secure- those whose world has been stable and now is turned upside down vs 23
The suicidal- those who are at the end of themselves vs 27
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
"Principles of Effective Christian Leadership"
Colossians 1:24-29
Effective Christian Leaders Are Willing to Pay the Price
Effective Leaders Have a Servant Mentality
Effective Christian Leaders See the Big Picture
Effective Christian Leaders Know the Source of Their Strength
Sandhill Cranes fly great distances across continents, have three remarkable qualities. First, they rotate leadership. Second, they choose leaders that can handle turbulence. And then, all during the time the one bird is leading, the rest are honking their affirmation. Pretty smart birds, don't you think?
Effective Christian Leaders Are Willing to Pay the Price
Effective Leaders Have a Servant Mentality
Effective Christian Leaders See the Big Picture
Effective Christian Leaders Know the Source of Their Strength
Sandhill Cranes fly great distances across continents, have three remarkable qualities. First, they rotate leadership. Second, they choose leaders that can handle turbulence. And then, all during the time the one bird is leading, the rest are honking their affirmation. Pretty smart birds, don't you think?
Growing a Church
You have to love all the disscussion about what really matters when doing church. Is it about the numbers? Is it about how many people we baptize? How much the church takes in for tithes and offerings? How much goes to missions?
It is easy to get caught up with hype and fluff. Conferences are great but they do tend to fuel pipe dreams. List about who is doing it best are good but they are not totally accurate.
Here are my thoughts on this stuff. I have been on both sides of the debate. I Love numbers. I love hearing the stories of those that are succeeding in big ways. I have been a part of dead ministries and struggling churches. It is tough.
My list:
Be right with God
Be faithful
Reach out to the lost
Help Christians grow
Dream God ideas
Do it Gods way
Be Spirit led
It is easy to get caught up with hype and fluff. Conferences are great but they do tend to fuel pipe dreams. List about who is doing it best are good but they are not totally accurate.
Here are my thoughts on this stuff. I have been on both sides of the debate. I Love numbers. I love hearing the stories of those that are succeeding in big ways. I have been a part of dead ministries and struggling churches. It is tough.
My list:
Be right with God
Be faithful
Reach out to the lost
Help Christians grow
Dream God ideas
Do it Gods way
Be Spirit led
Friday, October 9, 2009
Weapons of Choice
As Christians we know that we have weapons that can be used to help as we battle against our enemies. Here in a list:
Prayer
Scripture
fellowship
Here is a list that is not so obvious:
Confrontation
exposing falsehoods
loving your enemies
The battle is won or lost by our understanding of what weapon to use at the right time. Staying close to God and being led by the Holy Spirit makes the battle the Lords and not yours. Remember the victory is ours.
Prayer
Scripture
fellowship
Here is a list that is not so obvious:
Confrontation
exposing falsehoods
loving your enemies
The battle is won or lost by our understanding of what weapon to use at the right time. Staying close to God and being led by the Holy Spirit makes the battle the Lords and not yours. Remember the victory is ours.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
How To Overcome
For my Spiritual Warfare series I will be preaching on "How To Overcome" this Sunday. Here are my main points. I Hope they will help someone.
7 things to help us be Overcomers:
1. Face the enemy and face yourself.
2. Don't try to do it yourself. Remember the battle is the Lords.
3. look for the root of the problem and not just the symptoms
4. Overcoming is a process. It may take some time.
5. Remember that God is teaching you something in your overcoming.
6. When overcoming you are being a testimony for God when you do the right things
7. Go on the offensive. You are more than a conqueror through Christ.
7 things to help us be Overcomers:
1. Face the enemy and face yourself.
2. Don't try to do it yourself. Remember the battle is the Lords.
3. look for the root of the problem and not just the symptoms
4. Overcoming is a process. It may take some time.
5. Remember that God is teaching you something in your overcoming.
6. When overcoming you are being a testimony for God when you do the right things
7. Go on the offensive. You are more than a conqueror through Christ.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
What Demons Do
The evidence – It is clear that Satan has a following of like beings (“Prince of the demons” – Matt.12:24; the Devil and his angels – Matt.25:41). Demons are described throughout the Scriptures (Dan.10:10-20; Matt.10:1; Eph.6:12).
The time – At the fall of Satan, many angels followed him in that rebellion (demons are fallen angels). A third of the angelic host seem to have fallen with Satan (Rev.12:4 – the imagery of Satan as a “dragon” and angels/demons as “stars”).
Demons are involved in carrying out Satan’s evil plans (2 Cor.11:15).
Demons promote idolatry (Lev.17:7; Deut.32:17; Ps.106:36-38). This activity is blatant in primitive cultures.
Demons are active in hindering the spiritual progress of believers every way they can. They are deliberate and organized in these attempts (Eph.6:10-12).
Demons promote false teaching (1 Tim.4:1).
Demons can possess and afflict people.
The time – At the fall of Satan, many angels followed him in that rebellion (demons are fallen angels). A third of the angelic host seem to have fallen with Satan (Rev.12:4 – the imagery of Satan as a “dragon” and angels/demons as “stars”).
Demons are involved in carrying out Satan’s evil plans (2 Cor.11:15).
Demons promote idolatry (Lev.17:7; Deut.32:17; Ps.106:36-38). This activity is blatant in primitive cultures.
Demons are active in hindering the spiritual progress of believers every way they can. They are deliberate and organized in these attempts (Eph.6:10-12).
Demons promote false teaching (1 Tim.4:1).
Demons can possess and afflict people.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
spiritual warfare part 4
nice article from pastor rod parsley
As Isaac's firstborn son, Esau was entitled to the birthright and inheritance—but we do not speak of "Abraham, Isaac, and Esau." Esau sold his birthright for one meal. When Jacob offered food and asked for his birthright, Esau could have said, "No! It is not for sale," but he did not. He sold out the eternal for a moment's temporal satisfaction.
You were bought with a price—the precious blood of Christ. Nothing in you or that you have is for sale. You and everything about you belongs to Jesus.
The devil will offer you momentary satisfaction as he reaches for your birthright. He will tell you it is all right to keep your tithe, all right to keep your offering and satisfy the lusts of the flesh and of this world. He will tempt you to sell your time for momentary pleasure. He'll encourage you to barter away your godly inheritance.
Resist the devil's counsel. He promises the rainbow-but only delivers the rain.
Jesus, I belong totally to You. I thank You for the awesome price in Your shed blood that You paid for me on Calvary. Amen.
As Isaac's firstborn son, Esau was entitled to the birthright and inheritance—but we do not speak of "Abraham, Isaac, and Esau." Esau sold his birthright for one meal. When Jacob offered food and asked for his birthright, Esau could have said, "No! It is not for sale," but he did not. He sold out the eternal for a moment's temporal satisfaction.
You were bought with a price—the precious blood of Christ. Nothing in you or that you have is for sale. You and everything about you belongs to Jesus.
The devil will offer you momentary satisfaction as he reaches for your birthright. He will tell you it is all right to keep your tithe, all right to keep your offering and satisfy the lusts of the flesh and of this world. He will tempt you to sell your time for momentary pleasure. He'll encourage you to barter away your godly inheritance.
Resist the devil's counsel. He promises the rainbow-but only delivers the rain.
Jesus, I belong totally to You. I thank You for the awesome price in Your shed blood that You paid for me on Calvary. Amen.
Monday, September 21, 2009
spiritual warfare part 3
The devil is a real being who seeks to kill, steal and destroy. The plan of satan is to take us away from what God has for us. Every person will either be slave of God or of satan. The plan of satan
is deception and spiritual blindness.
We need to make a deliberate decision to live for GOD and put satan under our feet. Spiritual warfare begins with a true commitment to live for JESUS CHRIST.
is deception and spiritual blindness.
We need to make a deliberate decision to live for GOD and put satan under our feet. Spiritual warfare begins with a true commitment to live for JESUS CHRIST.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Spiritual Warfare part 2
Today during my sermon I did something that I believe is important when we are under spiritual attack. We need to expose lies and replace them with truth. When others lie about you they are a being used by the devil. "The thief comes to kill and steal and destroy..." (Jn 10:10a).
When you expose a lie the light of truth dispels the darkness and satan has nowhere to hide. We must always remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood but rulers of darkness in high places. When satan uses people to spread lies we must be ready to forgive the liars and pray for them.
When you expose a lie the light of truth dispels the darkness and satan has nowhere to hide. We must always remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood but rulers of darkness in high places. When satan uses people to spread lies we must be ready to forgive the liars and pray for them.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Spiritual Warfare
I will be teaching on spiritual warfare starting on Sunday. When you bring teachings on this subject you have to really be balanced and not go to far off on one side or the other. For example: You can't blame everything on the devil but then again you can't ignore the power of evil that is at work. I will be bringing alot of Biblical insight over the next few weeks. Stay tuned.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Whats Valuable?
nice story from Mark Batterson. Enjoy.
Soren Kierkegaard once told a parable about two thieves who broke into a jewelry store, but instead of stealing the jewels they simply switched the price tags. They put high-priced tags on cheap jewelry and low-priced tags on valuable gems. For several weeks no one noticed. People bought cheap jewelry for exorbitant prices and rare jewels for spare change. Kierkegaard's point is pretty obvious: sometimes we have difficulty discerning between what is valuable and what is worthless.John 10:10 says, "The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy." But here's how he steals. Very rarely is it overt. He uses covert means. He switches the price tags. He wants us to place supreme value on worthless things and no value on things that are invaluable.A relationship with Jesus Christ is of infinite value. To settle for anything less is literally robbing from yourself.
Soren Kierkegaard once told a parable about two thieves who broke into a jewelry store, but instead of stealing the jewels they simply switched the price tags. They put high-priced tags on cheap jewelry and low-priced tags on valuable gems. For several weeks no one noticed. People bought cheap jewelry for exorbitant prices and rare jewels for spare change. Kierkegaard's point is pretty obvious: sometimes we have difficulty discerning between what is valuable and what is worthless.John 10:10 says, "The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy." But here's how he steals. Very rarely is it overt. He uses covert means. He switches the price tags. He wants us to place supreme value on worthless things and no value on things that are invaluable.A relationship with Jesus Christ is of infinite value. To settle for anything less is literally robbing from yourself.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Why go to Church?
A Churchgoer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. "I’ve gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can’t remember a single one of them. So, I think I’m wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all."
This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: I’ve been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this: They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"
This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: I’ve been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this: They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Exhortation
Thoughts from James 5:7-20
Exhortation defined- Language intended to incite and encourage; advice; counsel; admonition
cheer: spur on or encourage especially by cheers and shouts
The Bible clearly exhorts us to the following teachings
1.Be Patient
2.Be Prayerful
3.Sing Praise
4.Follow spiritual procedure (protocol)
5.Seek to restore (restoration)
4.3.
Exhortation defined- Language intended to incite and encourage; advice; counsel; admonition
cheer: spur on or encourage especially by cheers and shouts
The Bible clearly exhorts us to the following teachings
1.Be Patient
2.Be Prayerful
3.Sing Praise
4.Follow spiritual procedure (protocol)
5.Seek to restore (restoration)
4.3.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Practical Christianity
The Book of James is like the Dear Abby column of the news paper. In other words it is practical advice for living your life. Much of handling our problems is common sense. The difference between using common sense in a worldly fashion as opposed to a spiritual fashion is spiritual formation. When we do things God’s way on purpose we are learning to live life according to Biblical principle.
First, what qualifies James as someone that has the answers?
He was someone who had been through the fire
He was someone who understood where people were
If a Christian were writing to James for advice on certain issues the question might read like this. We will be using the verses of James for the question and answer.
#1 I am going though a very difficult time right now what should I do?
Embrace your trial and learn from it. Believe that something good will come out of it. Ask God to give you wisdom (knowing what to do and doing it).
Don’t be a doubter learn how to stand in faith. Don’t be confused about God. Remember that instability breeds insecurity.
#2 Right now I am just getting by but one day I plan to have a lot of money how can I make sure that the money doesn’t change me?
If you are just getting by remember who you are in Christ. Spiritual richness far exceeds worldly wealth. Just ask Lazarus Luke 16:20-25)
If you are wealthy thank God that you have found the true meaning of life. Thank God you understand you are not measured by what you have.
#3 I want to quit living for God. I am really tired of all the struggles that come with the Christian life. What do you recommend?
Stay with it. Don’t quit. Keep in mind that there is more to life than what we go through in the here and now. Temptation will always be around us but don’t be deceived by the fleeting pleasures of sin. Keep in mind that God has a purpose for you. God has a destiny for you. Don’t abort it.
#4 I really want to give a coworker of mine a piece of my mind. What should I do?
Choose your words carefully. Listen to what other people say and why. Don’t let people anger you. Always ask yourself why is this person saying this? Who is this person saying this? Your vocabulary many times reveals the condition of your heart as well as your maturity level.
First, what qualifies James as someone that has the answers?
He was someone who had been through the fire
He was someone who understood where people were
If a Christian were writing to James for advice on certain issues the question might read like this. We will be using the verses of James for the question and answer.
#1 I am going though a very difficult time right now what should I do?
Embrace your trial and learn from it. Believe that something good will come out of it. Ask God to give you wisdom (knowing what to do and doing it).
Don’t be a doubter learn how to stand in faith. Don’t be confused about God. Remember that instability breeds insecurity.
#2 Right now I am just getting by but one day I plan to have a lot of money how can I make sure that the money doesn’t change me?
If you are just getting by remember who you are in Christ. Spiritual richness far exceeds worldly wealth. Just ask Lazarus Luke 16:20-25)
If you are wealthy thank God that you have found the true meaning of life. Thank God you understand you are not measured by what you have.
#3 I want to quit living for God. I am really tired of all the struggles that come with the Christian life. What do you recommend?
Stay with it. Don’t quit. Keep in mind that there is more to life than what we go through in the here and now. Temptation will always be around us but don’t be deceived by the fleeting pleasures of sin. Keep in mind that God has a purpose for you. God has a destiny for you. Don’t abort it.
#4 I really want to give a coworker of mine a piece of my mind. What should I do?
Choose your words carefully. Listen to what other people say and why. Don’t let people anger you. Always ask yourself why is this person saying this? Who is this person saying this? Your vocabulary many times reveals the condition of your heart as well as your maturity level.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
a little thing
A pastor in Haiti tells about a fellow he knew who wanted to sell his house for $2,000. In time, he found a buyer, but the man could scrape together only half the asking price. The owner agreed to sell for that amount but with one reservation: he would continue to own one nail above the front door.
A couple of years later, the first fellow decided he wanted to repurchase the house. The new owner declined, saying, "I like this house; I don't want to sell."
The previous owner found the carcass of a dead dog on the street and hung it from the nail he still owned above the front door. Soon the stench became so strong no one could go in or out of the house, and the family had to leave. They sold the house to the former owner.
The Haitian pastor said, "If we leave the devil with even one small peg in our life, he will return to hang his rotting garbage on it, making our lives unfit for Christ's habitation."
A couple of years later, the first fellow decided he wanted to repurchase the house. The new owner declined, saying, "I like this house; I don't want to sell."
The previous owner found the carcass of a dead dog on the street and hung it from the nail he still owned above the front door. Soon the stench became so strong no one could go in or out of the house, and the family had to leave. They sold the house to the former owner.
The Haitian pastor said, "If we leave the devil with even one small peg in our life, he will return to hang his rotting garbage on it, making our lives unfit for Christ's habitation."
Are People Open to the Gospel?
Ed Stetzer writes:
We asked a total of 1,000 twenty-something unchurched people; 900 American, 100 Canadian. And we compared them to a sample of 500 older unchurched (30 or above). ... And what we found is that yes, there are negative views of the church, two-thirds saying the church is full of hypocrites, people who do one thing and say another. But there was also great openness that's there. One of the questions that we asked them to agree or disagree with was: "I would be willing to study the Bible if a friend asked me to?"
Among twenty-somethings, 61-percent said, "Yes." Among their older counterparts of 30 and above, 42-percent said, "Yes." That was a statistically significant difference saying there is something going on, there is an openness that's there. So we're seeing that as an opportunity that in the midst of some negative views of the church there is also some openness to the things of God.
We asked a total of 1,000 twenty-something unchurched people; 900 American, 100 Canadian. And we compared them to a sample of 500 older unchurched (30 or above). ... And what we found is that yes, there are negative views of the church, two-thirds saying the church is full of hypocrites, people who do one thing and say another. But there was also great openness that's there. One of the questions that we asked them to agree or disagree with was: "I would be willing to study the Bible if a friend asked me to?"
Among twenty-somethings, 61-percent said, "Yes." Among their older counterparts of 30 and above, 42-percent said, "Yes." That was a statistically significant difference saying there is something going on, there is an openness that's there. So we're seeing that as an opportunity that in the midst of some negative views of the church there is also some openness to the things of God.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Table, Altar, Lampstand
The table of showbread was a small table made of acacia wood and overlaid with pure gold. It measured 3 feet by 1.5 feet and was 2 feet, 3 inches high. It stood on the right side of the Holy Place across from the lampstand and held 12 loaves of bread, representing the 12 tribes of Israel. The priests baked the bread with fine flour and it remained on the table before the Lord for a week; every Sabbath day the priests would remove it and eat it in the Holy Place, then put fresh bread on the table. Only priests could eat the bread, and it could only be eaten in the Holy Place, because it was holy.
“Showbread” also was called “bread of the presence” because it was to be always in the Lord’s presence. The table and the bread were a picture of God’s willingness to fellowship and communion (literally speaking, sharing something in common) with man. It was like an invitation to share a meal, an extension of friendship. Eating together often is an act of fellowship. God was willing for man to enter into His presence to fellowship with Him, and this invitation was always open.
God commanded the priests to burn incense on the golden altar every morning and evening, the same time that the daily burnt offerings were made. The incense was to be left burning continually throughout the day and night as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. It was made of an equal part of four precious spices (stacte, onycha, galbanum and frankincense) and was considered holy. God commanded the Israelites not to use the same formula outside the tabernacle to make perfume for their own consumption; otherwise, they were to be cut off from their people (Exodus 30:34-38).
The incense was a symbol of the prayers and intercession of the people going up to God as a sweet fragrance. God wanted His dwelling to be a place where people could approach Him and pray to Him.
The lampstand had a central branch from which three branches extended from each side, forming a total of seven branches. Seven lamps holding olive oil and wicks stood on top of the branches. Each branch looked like that of an almond tree, containing buds, blossoms and flowers. The priests were instructed to keep the lamps burning continuously. The lampstand was the only source of light in the Holy Place, so without it, the priests would have been moping around in the dark. The light shone upon the table of showbread and the altar of incense, enabling the priests to fellowship with God and intercede on behalf of God’s people. Just as the lampstand was placed in God’s dwelling place so that the priests could approach God, Jesus, the “true light that gives light to every man” (John 1:9) came into the world so that man could see God and not live in spiritual darkness anymore.
Jesus is represented by the main branch of the lampstand, and we as believers are represented by the six branches that extend from original branch. Having believed, we are now living as “children of light” (Ephesians 5:8) who draw our source of light from Jesus, the true light. Jesus calls us “light of the world” and commands us to “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5: 14, 16). Not only so, but the branches serve as a picture of Jesus’ description of our relationship with him: “I am the vine, you are the branches … apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Two other significant symbols that can be seen from include the fact that it was made of pure gold (not gold plated) and had seven branches. Pure gold is a representation of the deity and perfection of Jesus Christ, and seven is the number of completeness in the Bible. The believer is made complete by the perfection of Christ.
“Showbread” also was called “bread of the presence” because it was to be always in the Lord’s presence. The table and the bread were a picture of God’s willingness to fellowship and communion (literally speaking, sharing something in common) with man. It was like an invitation to share a meal, an extension of friendship. Eating together often is an act of fellowship. God was willing for man to enter into His presence to fellowship with Him, and this invitation was always open.
God commanded the priests to burn incense on the golden altar every morning and evening, the same time that the daily burnt offerings were made. The incense was to be left burning continually throughout the day and night as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. It was made of an equal part of four precious spices (stacte, onycha, galbanum and frankincense) and was considered holy. God commanded the Israelites not to use the same formula outside the tabernacle to make perfume for their own consumption; otherwise, they were to be cut off from their people (Exodus 30:34-38).
The incense was a symbol of the prayers and intercession of the people going up to God as a sweet fragrance. God wanted His dwelling to be a place where people could approach Him and pray to Him.
The lampstand had a central branch from which three branches extended from each side, forming a total of seven branches. Seven lamps holding olive oil and wicks stood on top of the branches. Each branch looked like that of an almond tree, containing buds, blossoms and flowers. The priests were instructed to keep the lamps burning continuously. The lampstand was the only source of light in the Holy Place, so without it, the priests would have been moping around in the dark. The light shone upon the table of showbread and the altar of incense, enabling the priests to fellowship with God and intercede on behalf of God’s people. Just as the lampstand was placed in God’s dwelling place so that the priests could approach God, Jesus, the “true light that gives light to every man” (John 1:9) came into the world so that man could see God and not live in spiritual darkness anymore.
Jesus is represented by the main branch of the lampstand, and we as believers are represented by the six branches that extend from original branch. Having believed, we are now living as “children of light” (Ephesians 5:8) who draw our source of light from Jesus, the true light. Jesus calls us “light of the world” and commands us to “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5: 14, 16). Not only so, but the branches serve as a picture of Jesus’ description of our relationship with him: “I am the vine, you are the branches … apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Two other significant symbols that can be seen from include the fact that it was made of pure gold (not gold plated) and had seven branches. Pure gold is a representation of the deity and perfection of Jesus Christ, and seven is the number of completeness in the Bible. The believer is made complete by the perfection of Christ.
Monday, July 13, 2009
The Gate and Brazen Altar
Tabernacle means “tent,” “place of dwelling” or “sanctuary.” It was a sacred place where God chose to meet His people, the Israelites, during the 40 years they wandered in the desert under Moses’ leadership. It was the place where the leaders and people came together to worship and offer sacrifices.
The tabernacle was more than just a dwelling place. All the components of the tabernacle were part of an intricate visual aid to illustrate God's relationship with His people. One aspect of this relationship was God’s requirement for complete obedience. God told Moses to create the tabernacle exactly the way He commanded. It was not to stray from God’s blueprint.
There was only one gate by which people could enter into the tabernacle courtyard. The gate was 30 feet wide. It was located directly in the center of the outer court on the east end. The gate was covered by a curtain or screen made of finely twisted linen in blue, purple and scarlet.
The one and only gate is a representation of Christ as the only way through which one could fellowship with God and worship Him. To do this, one must enter in through the gate to the place where God dwelled. Jesus said in his famous “I am” statements:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) and“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” (John 10:9)
He also said:
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
The act of entering the gate to the tabernacle was significant to the Israelites. By entering, one could find forgiveness of sin and fellowship with God. The first thing that one saw upon coming through the gate was the brazen altar, which served as a reminder of man’s sinfulness and his need for a blood sacrifice in order to be fellowship with God. One needed to repent and offer sacrifices for their sin. Those who did not repent were not entering this “narrow way.”
The brazen altar, bronze altar, or altar of sacrifice was situated right inside the courtyard upon entering the gate to the tabernacle. The Hebrew root for altar means “to slay” or “slaughter.” The Latin word alta means “high.” An altar is a “high place for sacrifice/slaughter.” The altar stood raised on a mound of earth, higher than its surrounding furniture. This is a projection of Christ, our sacrifice, lifted up on the cross, His altar, which stood on a hill called Golgotha.
Although the blood of the sacrifices covered over the sins of the Israelites, they had to perform the sacrifices year after year, for they were not freed permanently of a guilty conscience. However, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, came as the ultimate and last sacrifice for mankind when He offered up His life. As Isaiah prophesied, the Christ would be like a lamb that is led to slaughter and pierced for our transgressions. His blood was sprinkled and poured out at the cross for us.
more later.
The tabernacle was more than just a dwelling place. All the components of the tabernacle were part of an intricate visual aid to illustrate God's relationship with His people. One aspect of this relationship was God’s requirement for complete obedience. God told Moses to create the tabernacle exactly the way He commanded. It was not to stray from God’s blueprint.
There was only one gate by which people could enter into the tabernacle courtyard. The gate was 30 feet wide. It was located directly in the center of the outer court on the east end. The gate was covered by a curtain or screen made of finely twisted linen in blue, purple and scarlet.
The one and only gate is a representation of Christ as the only way through which one could fellowship with God and worship Him. To do this, one must enter in through the gate to the place where God dwelled. Jesus said in his famous “I am” statements:
“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6) and“I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.” (John 10:9)
He also said:
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14)
The act of entering the gate to the tabernacle was significant to the Israelites. By entering, one could find forgiveness of sin and fellowship with God. The first thing that one saw upon coming through the gate was the brazen altar, which served as a reminder of man’s sinfulness and his need for a blood sacrifice in order to be fellowship with God. One needed to repent and offer sacrifices for their sin. Those who did not repent were not entering this “narrow way.”
The brazen altar, bronze altar, or altar of sacrifice was situated right inside the courtyard upon entering the gate to the tabernacle. The Hebrew root for altar means “to slay” or “slaughter.” The Latin word alta means “high.” An altar is a “high place for sacrifice/slaughter.” The altar stood raised on a mound of earth, higher than its surrounding furniture. This is a projection of Christ, our sacrifice, lifted up on the cross, His altar, which stood on a hill called Golgotha.
Although the blood of the sacrifices covered over the sins of the Israelites, they had to perform the sacrifices year after year, for they were not freed permanently of a guilty conscience. However, Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, came as the ultimate and last sacrifice for mankind when He offered up His life. As Isaiah prophesied, the Christ would be like a lamb that is led to slaughter and pierced for our transgressions. His blood was sprinkled and poured out at the cross for us.
more later.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
The Contents of the ARK
Hebrews 9:1-7
Inside the ARK were three things that symbolized both the problem God had with the Israelites and the promise of God to believers. There was a jar of manna. This was the food that God supernaturally provided for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness. This was the same food that the Israelites complained about—so it symbolized their ungrateful rejection of God’s provision. The manna was God providing for His people just as God promises to provide our every need as believers. There was also Aaron’s walking stick. This stick represented God’s leadership through Moses and Aaron. Over and over again the Israelites rebelled against their leadership—so that God had to vindicate that Moses and Aaron were his chosen leaders by supernaturally causing his staff to bud. So this staff symbolized their rebellion against God’s leadership. The budding staff is a reminder that God has promised us the Resurrection. Even when things seem hopeless and dead God brings forth life. His Lordship in our life brings life to the most impossible situations. Finally, there were the 10 Commandment's—the two stone tablets that summarized God’s law. Even as Moses brought these tablets down from Mt. Sinai, the Israelites were having an idolatrous orgy. Moses furiously threw them down and smashed them—so God made another copy and told him to put them in the ark. They symbolized their disobedience to God’s law. This is not a pretty picture—and God has the same problems with us! What do we find in the meeting room with God? A record of why we deserve to be condemned by him! The Tablets remind us of Gods eternal covenant with His people. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is a God of grace and forgiveness.
Inside the ARK were three things that symbolized both the problem God had with the Israelites and the promise of God to believers. There was a jar of manna. This was the food that God supernaturally provided for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness. This was the same food that the Israelites complained about—so it symbolized their ungrateful rejection of God’s provision. The manna was God providing for His people just as God promises to provide our every need as believers. There was also Aaron’s walking stick. This stick represented God’s leadership through Moses and Aaron. Over and over again the Israelites rebelled against their leadership—so that God had to vindicate that Moses and Aaron were his chosen leaders by supernaturally causing his staff to bud. So this staff symbolized their rebellion against God’s leadership. The budding staff is a reminder that God has promised us the Resurrection. Even when things seem hopeless and dead God brings forth life. His Lordship in our life brings life to the most impossible situations. Finally, there were the 10 Commandment's—the two stone tablets that summarized God’s law. Even as Moses brought these tablets down from Mt. Sinai, the Israelites were having an idolatrous orgy. Moses furiously threw them down and smashed them—so God made another copy and told him to put them in the ark. They symbolized their disobedience to God’s law. This is not a pretty picture—and God has the same problems with us! What do we find in the meeting room with God? A record of why we deserve to be condemned by him! The Tablets remind us of Gods eternal covenant with His people. He will never leave us or forsake us. He is a God of grace and forgiveness.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
The Tabernacle
2 chapters are given to creation. But there are 50 chapters that are devoted to a description of the Tabernacle and it’s related ministries. 50 Chapters! That’s a lot.
The entire tabernacle and everything in it foreshadows Jesus, His work, His People, and how His people are to do His work.
Every piece of furniture pictures Christ
Ark – mediator
Alter of incense – intercessor
Golden candlestick – light
Table of showbread – bread
Laver – cleansing
Brazen alter – sacrifice
The overall type is the cross work of Christ – the pieces of the furniture are laid out in the form of a cross.
Why study the Tabernacle ?
1) study of the Tabernacle gives an understanding of God’s redemptive plan
2) Study of the Tabernacle shows the sinfulness of man
3) Study of the Tabernacle shows the Holiness of God
4) Study of the Tabernacle shows Christ’s fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan
5) The priestly ministry in the Tabernacle reveals how sinful man can approach a holy God with acceptable worship.
6) Study of the Tabernacle priesthood will give an understanding of Christ’s priestly ministry
7) Study of the Tabernacle will give us a greater appreciation of our role as believer priests. We have access anytime.
8) The sacrifices shows the great importance God placed on the need of a blood sacrifice
9) You need a good understanding of the Tabernacle to understand much in the book of Hebrews.
10) And every piece of the Tabernacle has a timeless truth to teach us that applies today.
The entire tabernacle and everything in it foreshadows Jesus, His work, His People, and how His people are to do His work.
Every piece of furniture pictures Christ
Ark – mediator
Alter of incense – intercessor
Golden candlestick – light
Table of showbread – bread
Laver – cleansing
Brazen alter – sacrifice
The overall type is the cross work of Christ – the pieces of the furniture are laid out in the form of a cross.
Why study the Tabernacle ?
1) study of the Tabernacle gives an understanding of God’s redemptive plan
2) Study of the Tabernacle shows the sinfulness of man
3) Study of the Tabernacle shows the Holiness of God
4) Study of the Tabernacle shows Christ’s fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan
5) The priestly ministry in the Tabernacle reveals how sinful man can approach a holy God with acceptable worship.
6) Study of the Tabernacle priesthood will give an understanding of Christ’s priestly ministry
7) Study of the Tabernacle will give us a greater appreciation of our role as believer priests. We have access anytime.
8) The sacrifices shows the great importance God placed on the need of a blood sacrifice
9) You need a good understanding of the Tabernacle to understand much in the book of Hebrews.
10) And every piece of the Tabernacle has a timeless truth to teach us that applies today.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Drawing Closer to God
Drawing Closer to God
Hebrews 10:19-25
Quit asking God to show up, you show up “ present yourself before the Lord”
When we take a step in Gods direction God is waiting. He desires for us to draw nearer. When we draw nearer to God He makes things happen for us. Drawing closer to God gives us many things. Here are 4 things.
1.He gives us a purpose to live for
2. He gives us a self to live with
3. He gives us a faith to live by
4. He gives us a leader we can trust
Hebrews 10:19-25
Quit asking God to show up, you show up “ present yourself before the Lord”
When we take a step in Gods direction God is waiting. He desires for us to draw nearer. When we draw nearer to God He makes things happen for us. Drawing closer to God gives us many things. Here are 4 things.
1.He gives us a purpose to live for
2. He gives us a self to live with
3. He gives us a faith to live by
4. He gives us a leader we can trust
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Interview Serene Garcia
Q: What is your nick name?
SCG:You should know it. It's Nini
Q: What is your favorite food?
SCG: Just quess? dumplings
Last Q: What is your favorite movie?
SCG: NachOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Libre
I would like to thank Serene Celeste Garcia for this brief but very revealing interview.
Thanks Nini
Until Next Time
George
SCG:You should know it. It's Nini
Q: What is your favorite food?
SCG: Just quess? dumplings
Last Q: What is your favorite movie?
SCG: NachOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Libre
I would like to thank Serene Celeste Garcia for this brief but very revealing interview.
Thanks Nini
Until Next Time
George
Friday, June 19, 2009
Getting on board Technologically
Some years ago I told myself that I needed to get technologically up to speed. I am now further behind. Things are moving very fast. What are the factors that keep us behind?
1. Money- new technology is expensive. For small churches these cost can be huge just to be 10 years behind the times.
2. Education- it takes time to grasp the information. Finding people who know the functions are hard to come by.
3. Using with purpose- the technology is only useful if you know exactly what you are trying to achieve through it. You have to incorporate technology with purpose.
I am convinced that using new technology is strategic and vital. I will continue to pursue this avenue with great interest. I pray I can catch up very soon.
1. Money- new technology is expensive. For small churches these cost can be huge just to be 10 years behind the times.
2. Education- it takes time to grasp the information. Finding people who know the functions are hard to come by.
3. Using with purpose- the technology is only useful if you know exactly what you are trying to achieve through it. You have to incorporate technology with purpose.
I am convinced that using new technology is strategic and vital. I will continue to pursue this avenue with great interest. I pray I can catch up very soon.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Scrub the launch
NASA is huge. NASA has put a man on the moon. NASA has some of the greatest minds on there payroll. NASA is planning to go back to the moon and beyond. NASA has a huge budget.
Today NASA scrubbed there launch. Sometimes things just don't line up. Sometimes a little oil ring can change the agenda.
Every launch has thousands of man hours behind it and lots of money invested but it has to wait if things are not functioning correctly.
Sometimes our plans have to be scrubbed because somethings are just not right. Do you have enough courage to make the call? Scrub it.
Today NASA scrubbed there launch. Sometimes things just don't line up. Sometimes a little oil ring can change the agenda.
Every launch has thousands of man hours behind it and lots of money invested but it has to wait if things are not functioning correctly.
Sometimes our plans have to be scrubbed because somethings are just not right. Do you have enough courage to make the call? Scrub it.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Analog now digital
There have been over 700,000 calls asking what happened after loosing there TV signal. For years there have been announcements that the change was going to happen. The bottom line is, people weren't listening.
This reminds me of the message of the Gospel. People have been hearing that they need to receive Jesus as Lord and Savior. People aren't listening and the day is coming when they will wonder what is happening.
There is still time.
This reminds me of the message of the Gospel. People have been hearing that they need to receive Jesus as Lord and Savior. People aren't listening and the day is coming when they will wonder what is happening.
There is still time.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
The Moving Experience
I can not believe how much you have to deal with when moving. Moving really is an experience. The one thing that really hit me when moving was how much junk I have. Where does it all come from.
I am very happy to report that I had significant breakthroughs this time around when dealing with useless junk that I have been storing and lugging around for some time.
By the way who is going to have to get rid of your junk if you happen to demise before you think you will?
To be very honest I was relieved to part company with books I had for no apparent reason for having. I had books that were so outdated it was a crime to even think they were of any value to my research.
Honestly, every thing you need can be found pretty much online and only books that are current seem to make sense. Why hold on to the past. I did keep some books but only if they had sentimental value(very few, thank God).
Clothes are another issue. Goodwill benefited from my repentance and sound judgement. Useless papers have no value. Why do we want any papers that are out of date. It was time to burn the trash. Thank God for computer memory and save disks.
Moving brought me back to some basic assumptions. Live simple, live clutter free, live to transition into something better(more does not mean better).
To spiritualize moving I would say we need to clean house from top to bottom and get rid of the junk that clutters our judgement and vision of the present and future.
I am very happy to report that I had significant breakthroughs this time around when dealing with useless junk that I have been storing and lugging around for some time.
By the way who is going to have to get rid of your junk if you happen to demise before you think you will?
To be very honest I was relieved to part company with books I had for no apparent reason for having. I had books that were so outdated it was a crime to even think they were of any value to my research.
Honestly, every thing you need can be found pretty much online and only books that are current seem to make sense. Why hold on to the past. I did keep some books but only if they had sentimental value(very few, thank God).
Clothes are another issue. Goodwill benefited from my repentance and sound judgement. Useless papers have no value. Why do we want any papers that are out of date. It was time to burn the trash. Thank God for computer memory and save disks.
Moving brought me back to some basic assumptions. Live simple, live clutter free, live to transition into something better(more does not mean better).
To spiritualize moving I would say we need to clean house from top to bottom and get rid of the junk that clutters our judgement and vision of the present and future.
Monday, June 1, 2009
What are you seeing?
Numbers 13-14
1.God wanted them to see the challenges as opportunities vs 1
2.There will always be 2 opinions. Yes we can and no we can’t vs 25-33
3.God wants us to believe in His greatness and power. Chapter 14:11
Some things to consider
1.No one is indispensible
2.God honors faith
3.God is not moved by our instability
1.God wanted them to see the challenges as opportunities vs 1
2.There will always be 2 opinions. Yes we can and no we can’t vs 25-33
3.God wants us to believe in His greatness and power. Chapter 14:11
Some things to consider
1.No one is indispensible
2.God honors faith
3.God is not moved by our instability
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Getting People to Stay
by Bill Reichart
You want me to come and stay at your church? Then...
10. Show me Jesus
9. Smile
8. Serve me
7. Help me to get involved and connected
6. Look me in the eye
5. Ask my opinion
4. Be clear and anticipate my questions
3. Remember my name
2. Call me (without asking me for something)
1. Be yourself
All of these together boil down to one simple message: Show That You Care.
You want me to come and stay at your church? Then...
10. Show me Jesus
9. Smile
8. Serve me
7. Help me to get involved and connected
6. Look me in the eye
5. Ask my opinion
4. Be clear and anticipate my questions
3. Remember my name
2. Call me (without asking me for something)
1. Be yourself
All of these together boil down to one simple message: Show That You Care.
Monday, May 25, 2009
why did God raise Moses up?
Why did God raise up Moses?
1.To bring deliverance (Exodus 12:33)
2. To give direction (Exodus 13:21)
3. To teach faith (Exodus 14:13)
4. To teach Trust (Exodus 16-17)
5. To Bring Order (Exodus 18-23)
6. To bring Conquest (Exodus 23:20-33)
7. To teach covenant (Exodus 24)
1.To bring deliverance (Exodus 12:33)
2. To give direction (Exodus 13:21)
3. To teach faith (Exodus 14:13)
4. To teach Trust (Exodus 16-17)
5. To Bring Order (Exodus 18-23)
6. To bring Conquest (Exodus 23:20-33)
7. To teach covenant (Exodus 24)
Words that come to mind when studing Moses
Let My People Go
Deliverance
A new Beginning
The Maturing process
Wandering
The purposes of God
The promise land
Faith
Doubt
Positive
negative
Deliverance
A new Beginning
The Maturing process
Wandering
The purposes of God
The promise land
Faith
Doubt
Positive
negative
Friday, May 22, 2009
Things to expect after a miracle
After the lame beggar was healed in Acts 3 the following occurred:
1. Others became interested in the message of the Gospel. (Acts 3:11) While he was clinging to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them at the so-called portico of Solomon, full of amazement.
2. Trouble came to those who God used to bring the miracle (Acts 4:30 And they laid hands on them and put them in jail until the next day, for it was already evening.
3. Growth occurred both spiritually for the believers and numerically for new believers (Acts 5:14)And all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number.
Just a reminder. The greatest miracle of all is the salvation of a soul. When a person is truly converted that is the power of God at work in the greatest way.
1. Others became interested in the message of the Gospel. (Acts 3:11) While he was clinging to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them at the so-called portico of Solomon, full of amazement.
2. Trouble came to those who God used to bring the miracle (Acts 4:30 And they laid hands on them and put them in jail until the next day, for it was already evening.
3. Growth occurred both spiritually for the believers and numerically for new believers (Acts 5:14)And all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number.
Just a reminder. The greatest miracle of all is the salvation of a soul. When a person is truly converted that is the power of God at work in the greatest way.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Urgency vs Complacency
It is so easy for a person, business or organization to get complacent. The status quo sounds good sometimes. It is so much easier to let old dogs lie because you really can't teach an old dogs new tricks anyway.
How do you get the fire burning again? How can you get people who are not urgent, urgent?
Here are some thoughts:
Spill your guts. Talk about what you are feeling. Get yourself out of the rut. Look for the positive. Take action. Do something that will break you out of the ordinary. Start to think out of the box. Start to believe that the impossible is possible.
Why is what you are planning to change so important. Will what you are dreaming really make a difference? Don't just talk about it, do it!!!!
How do you get the fire burning again? How can you get people who are not urgent, urgent?
Here are some thoughts:
Spill your guts. Talk about what you are feeling. Get yourself out of the rut. Look for the positive. Take action. Do something that will break you out of the ordinary. Start to think out of the box. Start to believe that the impossible is possible.
Why is what you are planning to change so important. Will what you are dreaming really make a difference? Don't just talk about it, do it!!!!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Cool or Not
Great post from the guys at Lifechurch.tv
Here it is:
The American Church is not lacking for “cool” pastors. Like a single guy who is trying just-a-bit-too-hard to impress a girl, some churches are simply trying too hard to be cool.
I’m very encouraged to see a shifting in direction. For years, many of us seemed focused on:
Designing relevant church experiences.
Producing entertaining videos.
Creating inviting environments.
Crafting sermon series to draw a crowd.
Writing sermons with shock value and plenty of humor or stories.
While all of the above can be effective tools, many of my friends are intentionally moving in a stronger direction. So many great Christian leaders are seeing far better results with:
Bathing a sermon in prayer.
Fasting regularly.
Practicing personal confession and repentance.
Preaching from the overflow of time alone in God’s word.
Caring deeply for others in biblical community.
I’m thrilled so many leaders are placing less emphasis on being cool and more emphasis on being like Christ.
Here it is:
The American Church is not lacking for “cool” pastors. Like a single guy who is trying just-a-bit-too-hard to impress a girl, some churches are simply trying too hard to be cool.
I’m very encouraged to see a shifting in direction. For years, many of us seemed focused on:
Designing relevant church experiences.
Producing entertaining videos.
Creating inviting environments.
Crafting sermon series to draw a crowd.
Writing sermons with shock value and plenty of humor or stories.
While all of the above can be effective tools, many of my friends are intentionally moving in a stronger direction. So many great Christian leaders are seeing far better results with:
Bathing a sermon in prayer.
Fasting regularly.
Practicing personal confession and repentance.
Preaching from the overflow of time alone in God’s word.
Caring deeply for others in biblical community.
I’m thrilled so many leaders are placing less emphasis on being cool and more emphasis on being like Christ.
Monday, May 11, 2009
learning again
I remember a preacher once said that the journey of Israel out of Egypt to the promise land was suppose to last 40 days but ended up being a 40 years experience. As the preacher put it when they did not learn the lesson God said "take another lap". I have since understood what was happening. Israel needed 40 years to undo what they had become in 400 years. God used those years to help Israel rid itself of the Egyptian influence.
Was God with them in the wilderness? Just study the Tabernacle and it is very clear He was. In the study of the Tabernacle we see God helping His people understand there past, present and future. Just as there are 3 areas in the Tabernacle we must also see what God wants to understand about our past, present and future.
The Outer Court- every person starts on the outside. We are sinners by nature. We are lost without hope. We need help to get right with God. The Cross of Jesus is our way in the door. We need forgiveness of sin. Our past must be washed in the Blood of Jesus. Our sins must be washed away. We need a new beginning. In Christ we are new creatures, the old is past away and everything becomes new.
The Holy Place- In the present we are living daily by the help of God through His Holy Spirit. We are righteous because of what Christ has done for us. In the Holy place we have bread, light and access to God. The bread is His word. The Light is His will and the incense is our walk with the Lord.
The Holy of Hollies- One day we will be in the completed presence of God. Right now we only know in part but one day we will fully know. The future is bright for those who have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
So what is God up to? God is calling all believers to work out there salvation with fear and trembling. Our God is sanctifying us and preparing us to present us as church without spot, wrinkle or blemish.
more later.
Was God with them in the wilderness? Just study the Tabernacle and it is very clear He was. In the study of the Tabernacle we see God helping His people understand there past, present and future. Just as there are 3 areas in the Tabernacle we must also see what God wants to understand about our past, present and future.
The Outer Court- every person starts on the outside. We are sinners by nature. We are lost without hope. We need help to get right with God. The Cross of Jesus is our way in the door. We need forgiveness of sin. Our past must be washed in the Blood of Jesus. Our sins must be washed away. We need a new beginning. In Christ we are new creatures, the old is past away and everything becomes new.
The Holy Place- In the present we are living daily by the help of God through His Holy Spirit. We are righteous because of what Christ has done for us. In the Holy place we have bread, light and access to God. The bread is His word. The Light is His will and the incense is our walk with the Lord.
The Holy of Hollies- One day we will be in the completed presence of God. Right now we only know in part but one day we will fully know. The future is bright for those who have a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.
So what is God up to? God is calling all believers to work out there salvation with fear and trembling. Our God is sanctifying us and preparing us to present us as church without spot, wrinkle or blemish.
more later.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Mother's Day
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to mothers everywhere. Mothers deserve every bit of our respect, honor and love. It has been over 1 year since my mother went to be with the Lord. I miss her. My mother was so kind and generous. My mother was the greatest example of unconditional love that I have ever known. I was very blessed to have had such a great mother. I will see her again one day in heaven and for that I am so thankful.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
When the Spirit Came
Today I preached about the day of Pentecost. The day of Pentecost was such an important day in the life of those 120 believers.
Three things to keep in mind:
1. The power of the Holy Spirit came to empower every Christian for victorious living
2. The power of the Holy Spirit is the key to evangelism. Personal and global evangelization.
3. The power of the Holy Spirit is for spiritual equipping
The Bible said that the Spirit came like fire. Here are few words to remind us of fire.
F Foundational/First Fruits/Fresh wind, fire, water
I Intercession/Interrupted/Infusion
R Repenting/Relying/Reverencing
E Enabling/Engaging/Equipping
Three things to keep in mind:
1. The power of the Holy Spirit came to empower every Christian for victorious living
2. The power of the Holy Spirit is the key to evangelism. Personal and global evangelization.
3. The power of the Holy Spirit is for spiritual equipping
The Bible said that the Spirit came like fire. Here are few words to remind us of fire.
F Foundational/First Fruits/Fresh wind, fire, water
I Intercession/Interrupted/Infusion
R Repenting/Relying/Reverencing
E Enabling/Engaging/Equipping
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Upper Room before Pentecost
Jesus was on the earth 40 days after His resurrection. Before His Ascension He told them to go to the upper room and wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit. From the time of His ascension to the the day of Pentecost would be 10 days. In those ten days we find the training that Jesus had given them kicking into high gear. Hear are 3 fundamentals of every maturing believer.
1.They showed there dependence on Prayer
1.They showed there dependence on Prayer
"They all joined together constantly in prayer" Acts 1:14
2.They showed there devotion to scripture
"The Scripture had to be fulfilled" Acts 1:15
3. They showed there determination for Gods Will
"Show us which of these two you have chosen" Acts 1:24
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Post Resurrection
What happened after Jesus rose from the dead? I want to key in on three things
1. He Appeared to the the women, the disciples and to 500 wittiness at one time. He did this in order to confirm his resurrection to his followers. He appeared to confirm His prophetic word about His resurrection. He appeared in order to give further teachings and instructions to His church. He tied up a lot of loose ends that where out there in the minds of His disciples.
(Jn. 20:30
2. He Announced that in not many days they would receive power when the Holy Spirit would come into them (Acts 1:8). Power to be witnesses. Power to be bold for God. Power to live victorious in a hostile world.
3. He Ascended to His place of Glory and Power. The pre-existent Christ would return to His place of God on His throne. His earthly ministry was complete and now the Holy Spirit would come into the hearts of every believer.
Jesus Was on the earth for 40 days after His Resurrection
40 is an important number that denotes testing or a period of examination. 40 days or years in the wilderness.
50 day after Easter Sunday came Pentecost
50 is the number of Jubilee, denoting restoration and newness of life. The captives are set free. The most significant symbol in this regard is the Jewish Feast of Pentecost which becomes the very day the church was born in 30AD.
40 = Testing
Part of The Process
50 = Jubilee
Everyday freedom to live for Christ
1. He Appeared to the the women, the disciples and to 500 wittiness at one time. He did this in order to confirm his resurrection to his followers. He appeared to confirm His prophetic word about His resurrection. He appeared in order to give further teachings and instructions to His church. He tied up a lot of loose ends that where out there in the minds of His disciples.
(Jn. 20:30
2. He Announced that in not many days they would receive power when the Holy Spirit would come into them (Acts 1:8). Power to be witnesses. Power to be bold for God. Power to live victorious in a hostile world.
3. He Ascended to His place of Glory and Power. The pre-existent Christ would return to His place of God on His throne. His earthly ministry was complete and now the Holy Spirit would come into the hearts of every believer.
Jesus Was on the earth for 40 days after His Resurrection
40 is an important number that denotes testing or a period of examination. 40 days or years in the wilderness.
50 day after Easter Sunday came Pentecost
50 is the number of Jubilee, denoting restoration and newness of life. The captives are set free. The most significant symbol in this regard is the Jewish Feast of Pentecost which becomes the very day the church was born in 30AD.
40 = Testing
Part of The Process
50 = Jubilee
Everyday freedom to live for Christ
Friday, April 10, 2009
The Tomb
The resurrection changed everything. When the disciples went to the tomb they found it empty. This Biblical recorded event, while not expected by most, was declared by Jesus before it happen.
What are the things that make the resurrection real in my life.
1. Just like salvation it is a faith issue. Without faith it is impossible to please God(Heb 11)
2. The Bible is truth. Everything the Bible records is reliable.
3. I don't believe that the early Christians (especially the Apostles) would give up there lives for a lie. They saw the resurrected Savior alive after seeing Him crucified, die and buried.
4. Christianity continues to grow even 2000 + years after the resurrection.
5. People testify to the the life changing power of the risen Lord.
6. The Presence of the risen Lord can be felt.
7. He personal has changed my life through putting my trust in Him.
What are the things that make the resurrection real in my life.
1. Just like salvation it is a faith issue. Without faith it is impossible to please God(Heb 11)
2. The Bible is truth. Everything the Bible records is reliable.
3. I don't believe that the early Christians (especially the Apostles) would give up there lives for a lie. They saw the resurrected Savior alive after seeing Him crucified, die and buried.
4. Christianity continues to grow even 2000 + years after the resurrection.
5. People testify to the the life changing power of the risen Lord.
6. The Presence of the risen Lord can be felt.
7. He personal has changed my life through putting my trust in Him.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
The Table
The Table
Luke 22: 7-27
The Passover meal begins at 6:00pm Thursday night. By 3:00pm the next day Jesus will be nailed to the Cross. By sunrise on Sunday Jesus would have resurrected from the dead. What we should see is things are moving fast.
By the time of Jesus the Passover had become a very relaxed event but on the night of the original Passover God had instructed them like this.
“Now you shall eat it in this manner; with your lions girded, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste- it is the Lords Passover”
Exodus 12:11
Again this are moving faster than what anyone really knows or understands. Nothing has changed. Things are moving at a very fast clip and we are at a standstill in our lives as it moves by us.
Beware of Satan
Beware of self
Make preparation
Follow the Water
It will be just as Jesus said
Remember Gods Plan/that Jesus came to be the Savior
Remember Gods Covenant/ the new covenant/the law of the Spirit
Remember Gods call/ to be servants
Luke 22: 7-27
The Passover meal begins at 6:00pm Thursday night. By 3:00pm the next day Jesus will be nailed to the Cross. By sunrise on Sunday Jesus would have resurrected from the dead. What we should see is things are moving fast.
By the time of Jesus the Passover had become a very relaxed event but on the night of the original Passover God had instructed them like this.
“Now you shall eat it in this manner; with your lions girded, your sandals on your feet and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste- it is the Lords Passover”
Exodus 12:11
Again this are moving faster than what anyone really knows or understands. Nothing has changed. Things are moving at a very fast clip and we are at a standstill in our lives as it moves by us.
Beware of Satan
Beware of self
Make preparation
Follow the Water
It will be just as Jesus said
Remember Gods Plan/that Jesus came to be the Savior
Remember Gods Covenant/ the new covenant/the law of the Spirit
Remember Gods call/ to be servants
Monday, March 23, 2009
A donkey and a colt
In Matthew 21 we read that Jesus told two of His disciples to go get Him a donkey and a colt. The donkey represents the subborn things that He is calling for us to let go of and the colt represents the places God wants to take us where we have never been. Jesus told the disciples to tell the owner "the Lord has need of them.
Interesting enough that Jesus already knew the location and conversation that would take place before they even happened. This is such a reminder that we serve a God of destiny. He is a God who knows our end from the begining.
Interesting enough that Jesus already knew the location and conversation that would take place before they even happened. This is such a reminder that we serve a God of destiny. He is a God who knows our end from the begining.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
losing to gain
Losing to Gain
Matthew 16:21-26
Jesus knew He was going to the cross to lay down His life for the world and He wanted the disciples to get that. Vs. 21
Peter was shocked at this statement because it went against the grain of his ideas on how we gain. How we win. Vs. 22
Satan wants us to have a false view of gain and what it means to be a loser. Vs. 23a
The key statement to Peter as Jesus rebukes him “For you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s”. vs. 23b
If reality TV has taught us anything it would be that people are willing to do just about anything for money and 15 minutes of fame.
In His call to self denial Jesus was giving us keys to win in this life and the next. Vs. 24
1. it is a personal decision
2. it takes a whole hearted commitment
3. it will involve a lifetime process
How is it possible that losing means winning? What is the message of Christian living?
Galatians 2:20 Romans 6:1-11
The symbol a baptism is very revealing. Dying to the old man to come up a new man.
The recent scandal on Wall Street serves as a perfect illustration of someone having gained it all only to lose it all. The picture a man going from the penthouse to the jailhouse is a picture of the soul of man living life on his own deceptive terms only to be judged and confined with no hope of release.
What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, only to lose his soul. Vs. 26
Jesus asks the question “How much is you soul worth”. Vs. 26
Matthew 16:21-26
Jesus knew He was going to the cross to lay down His life for the world and He wanted the disciples to get that. Vs. 21
Peter was shocked at this statement because it went against the grain of his ideas on how we gain. How we win. Vs. 22
Satan wants us to have a false view of gain and what it means to be a loser. Vs. 23a
The key statement to Peter as Jesus rebukes him “For you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s”. vs. 23b
If reality TV has taught us anything it would be that people are willing to do just about anything for money and 15 minutes of fame.
In His call to self denial Jesus was giving us keys to win in this life and the next. Vs. 24
1. it is a personal decision
2. it takes a whole hearted commitment
3. it will involve a lifetime process
How is it possible that losing means winning? What is the message of Christian living?
Galatians 2:20 Romans 6:1-11
The symbol a baptism is very revealing. Dying to the old man to come up a new man.
The recent scandal on Wall Street serves as a perfect illustration of someone having gained it all only to lose it all. The picture a man going from the penthouse to the jailhouse is a picture of the soul of man living life on his own deceptive terms only to be judged and confined with no hope of release.
What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, only to lose his soul. Vs. 26
Jesus asks the question “How much is you soul worth”. Vs. 26
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Having a Jesus Heart
We need remember that the mission we are are on is not about us. John the Baptist said it this way. We must decrease and Jesus must increase. We need to make sure our heart is after the heart Jesus. Here are a few thoughts on this subject.
1. A Jesus Heart is for the Children .Matthew 19:13-15
2. A Jesus Heart is for the weary. Matthew 11:28-29
3. A Jesus heart is for the lost Luke. 10:2-3 Luke 15: 1-32
4. A Jesus heart for His Church. John 14: 1-3
1. A Jesus Heart is for the Children .Matthew 19:13-15
2. A Jesus Heart is for the weary. Matthew 11:28-29
3. A Jesus heart is for the lost Luke. 10:2-3 Luke 15: 1-32
4. A Jesus heart for His Church. John 14: 1-3
Thursday, March 5, 2009
David Gibbson on the future
I came across this question that was asked by Tony Morgan to David Gibbson who is the pastor of Newsong in southern Calif. I thought the answer is mind blowing. What do you think?
TONY: You are a futurist. I’m always challenged by thoughts about what’s next? So, what’s next?
DAVE: Tribalism will increase. Uprisings especially among the poor in the world. Potential global economic depression. Further devaluation of the U.S. dollar. Terrorist attack in a major U.S. city. Rise of brilliant theology emerging from the third world, rooted in pain, suffering, collaboration and beauty. More church layoffs and downsizing yet at the same time greater clarity for the church. Scarcity brings clarity. North Korea wall falls. Eastern art, design, film and music will become increasingly a major force in culture. Instead of the church focused on one form or style of church (multi-sites, organic, emergent or whatever), it’s about multiple forms, hybrids, mergers, questions. China, Southeast Asia and India will continue to grow in economic, military, religious and political influence and strength. Greater eastern influence in western culture and conversations. Third-culture leaders will continue to emerge as the next generation of global, movement leaders in the arts, business and religion.Read more: "TonyMorganLive.com" - http://tonymorganlive.com/#ixzz08tTUopnF
TONY: You are a futurist. I’m always challenged by thoughts about what’s next? So, what’s next?
DAVE: Tribalism will increase. Uprisings especially among the poor in the world. Potential global economic depression. Further devaluation of the U.S. dollar. Terrorist attack in a major U.S. city. Rise of brilliant theology emerging from the third world, rooted in pain, suffering, collaboration and beauty. More church layoffs and downsizing yet at the same time greater clarity for the church. Scarcity brings clarity. North Korea wall falls. Eastern art, design, film and music will become increasingly a major force in culture. Instead of the church focused on one form or style of church (multi-sites, organic, emergent or whatever), it’s about multiple forms, hybrids, mergers, questions. China, Southeast Asia and India will continue to grow in economic, military, religious and political influence and strength. Greater eastern influence in western culture and conversations. Third-culture leaders will continue to emerge as the next generation of global, movement leaders in the arts, business and religion.Read more: "TonyMorganLive.com" - http://tonymorganlive.com/#ixzz08tTUopnF
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
reacting or reflecting?
When things happen in ministry we have to ask ourselves am I reacting or reflecting in what I am thinking and saying? When we are confronted with attitudes that we know are sincere we must me mindful of others and their well being. We must also be honest about where things really are and not try to force our agenda. If we are sensitive to the needs of others it will all work out on behalf.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
sub mission
Whether you are a new Christian or an old one, you never stop the process of spiritual maturity. A Christian who is committed to Christ is going to grow.
Progressing Through the Levels of Growth- A significant passage on spiritual growth is 1 John 2:13-14. It discusses three stages of spiritual growth:
(1) babies (2) young men (3) fathers.
These stages correspond to human life.
(1)The beginning is infancy--there is parental recognition.
(2)Then there is young adulthood--the time when you know what you believe. In spiritual maturity the young man has the ability to comprehend doctrine and the Word of God. He has his feet on the ground; he is not "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine..." (Eph. 4:14)
(3) Finally, there is fatherhood. The spiritual father not only knows what he believes in, but he knows the One in whom he believes in a deep, abiding, and mature way.
THE GOAL OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
The process of spiritual growth is an ascension toward the goal of knowing God. The Apostle Paul continued in the process of spiritual growth even though he had reached a high level. At the height of his life and ministry--when he had accomplished the great dreams and desires of his heart--he said his goal was "That I may know him..." (Phil. 3:10). In other words, no matter how far he had gone, he still longed for a deeper, broader, more vital and fulfilling comprehension of the very God he loved and served.
THE LIFE OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
Christians move through the three stages of spiritual growth by the (1)Word of God, (2)the Spirit of God, and in (3)response to the command of God. And the key is this: Christians can only grow when they are living to the glory of God. When they live for themselves, nothing positive will occur. Growth will only take place when Christians are spiritual, not carnal, and when they are living for the glory of God, not for themselves.
After Christians have been saved, there is a balancing act that is carried on. We have new life in us, but we also have our old sin nature around us--the sin that's in our flesh. A believer finds that a part of his life is given to God, and a part to sin. But as he matures, there is an increasing frequency of righteousness and a decreasing frequency of sinfulness. There isn't a time in your Christian life that you stop being sinful and are always righteous; the Christian life is always a progression. Paul says, "Not as though I had already attained.... I press toward the mark..." (Phil. 3:12, 14).
The evidence of your progression is a decreasing frequency of sin.
When I was saved, I faced the struggle that Paul talks about in Romans 7:15-23. The things I wanted to do, I didn't do; and the things I didn't want to do, I did. I was fighting against the flesh. The struggle is still the same, but with one difference. As I have progressed in spiritual maturity by living to the glory of God, walking in the Holy Spirit, and living a life of obedience, I have seen the decrease of the frequency of sinfulness, but not its absence. I just don't sin as much as I used to as I have grown toward a more righteous standard.
Progressing Through the Levels of Growth- A significant passage on spiritual growth is 1 John 2:13-14. It discusses three stages of spiritual growth:
(1) babies (2) young men (3) fathers.
These stages correspond to human life.
(1)The beginning is infancy--there is parental recognition.
(2)Then there is young adulthood--the time when you know what you believe. In spiritual maturity the young man has the ability to comprehend doctrine and the Word of God. He has his feet on the ground; he is not "tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine..." (Eph. 4:14)
(3) Finally, there is fatherhood. The spiritual father not only knows what he believes in, but he knows the One in whom he believes in a deep, abiding, and mature way.
THE GOAL OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
The process of spiritual growth is an ascension toward the goal of knowing God. The Apostle Paul continued in the process of spiritual growth even though he had reached a high level. At the height of his life and ministry--when he had accomplished the great dreams and desires of his heart--he said his goal was "That I may know him..." (Phil. 3:10). In other words, no matter how far he had gone, he still longed for a deeper, broader, more vital and fulfilling comprehension of the very God he loved and served.
THE LIFE OF SPIRITUAL MATURITY
Christians move through the three stages of spiritual growth by the (1)Word of God, (2)the Spirit of God, and in (3)response to the command of God. And the key is this: Christians can only grow when they are living to the glory of God. When they live for themselves, nothing positive will occur. Growth will only take place when Christians are spiritual, not carnal, and when they are living for the glory of God, not for themselves.
After Christians have been saved, there is a balancing act that is carried on. We have new life in us, but we also have our old sin nature around us--the sin that's in our flesh. A believer finds that a part of his life is given to God, and a part to sin. But as he matures, there is an increasing frequency of righteousness and a decreasing frequency of sinfulness. There isn't a time in your Christian life that you stop being sinful and are always righteous; the Christian life is always a progression. Paul says, "Not as though I had already attained.... I press toward the mark..." (Phil. 3:12, 14).
The evidence of your progression is a decreasing frequency of sin.
When I was saved, I faced the struggle that Paul talks about in Romans 7:15-23. The things I wanted to do, I didn't do; and the things I didn't want to do, I did. I was fighting against the flesh. The struggle is still the same, but with one difference. As I have progressed in spiritual maturity by living to the glory of God, walking in the Holy Spirit, and living a life of obedience, I have seen the decrease of the frequency of sinfulness, but not its absence. I just don't sin as much as I used to as I have grown toward a more righteous standard.
Friday, February 13, 2009
The Outer Mission
First, we needed to revive the great conversation about the formation of the soul; God has given each one of us the responsibility to "grow in grace" (2 Pet. 3:18). This is not something we can pass off onto others. We are to take up our individualized crosses and follow in the steps of the crucified and risen Christ.
Second, we needed to incarnate this reality into the daily experience of individual, congregational, and cultural life. "Action follows essence," reminds us that our action is always in accord with the inward reality of our heart.
We are to do the work of God in a congregational setting.
Getting Gods people into fellowship- if I am longing to know Jesus and follow Jesus and serve Jesus and be formed into the image of Jesus—then I am powerfully drawn toward anyone and everyone who is seeking to know Jesus and follow Jesus and serve Jesus and be formed into the image of Jesus.
Getting Gods people connected- We stay within the given church structures and develop little centers of light within those structures. And then we let our light shine!
Getting Gods People to those who need Jesus- being torn loose from all earthly attachments and ambitions, and amor mundi, our being quickened to a divine but painful compassion for the world. We deepen in our compassion for the bruised, the broken, the dispossessed. We ache and pray and labor for others in a new way, a selfless way, a joy-filled way. Our heart is enlarged toward those on the margins. Indeed, our heart is enlarged toward all people, toward all of Creation.
Second, we needed to incarnate this reality into the daily experience of individual, congregational, and cultural life. "Action follows essence," reminds us that our action is always in accord with the inward reality of our heart.
We are to do the work of God in a congregational setting.
Getting Gods people into fellowship- if I am longing to know Jesus and follow Jesus and serve Jesus and be formed into the image of Jesus—then I am powerfully drawn toward anyone and everyone who is seeking to know Jesus and follow Jesus and serve Jesus and be formed into the image of Jesus.
Getting Gods people connected- We stay within the given church structures and develop little centers of light within those structures. And then we let our light shine!
Getting Gods People to those who need Jesus- being torn loose from all earthly attachments and ambitions, and amor mundi, our being quickened to a divine but painful compassion for the world. We deepen in our compassion for the bruised, the broken, the dispossessed. We ache and pray and labor for others in a new way, a selfless way, a joy-filled way. Our heart is enlarged toward those on the margins. Indeed, our heart is enlarged toward all people, toward all of Creation.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Discipleship
Matthew 8:18-27 reminds us that true discipleship is following the orders of Jesus without excuses. If I say I will follow then I must count the cost. Jesus reminded the scribe that sacrifice is a part of discipleship. Personal interests cannot come first when following the Lord. On the journey there will be storms that arise from what appears to be out of nowhere but Jesus commands us not to fear but to have faith. When our trust is in the Lord to lead us we will be amazed at what things the Lord can do.
John Paton said " Nothing so clears the vision and lifts up the life, as a decision to move forward in what you know to be entirely the will of the Lord."
John Paton said " Nothing so clears the vision and lifts up the life, as a decision to move forward in what you know to be entirely the will of the Lord."
Monday, February 9, 2009
The Inner Mission
He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion (Phil. 1:6). The inner mission is God at work in us to complete us in Christ. We must remember we were the 1 sheep that the shepherd went after leaving the 99. The inner mission is about you and God's desitiny for your life.
Here are 3 things to keep in mind.
1. Accept it. God will not let you God.
2. Expect it. God will be at work on your behalf to complete His mission in your life.
3. Perfect it. God expects us to do our part in the inner mission by yielding our will.
Be conformed (Rom. 8:29), Be transformed (2 Cor. 3:18), Be formed (Gal. 4:19), into Christlikness.
Here are 3 things to keep in mind.
1. Accept it. God will not let you God.
2. Expect it. God will be at work on your behalf to complete His mission in your life.
3. Perfect it. God expects us to do our part in the inner mission by yielding our will.
Be conformed (Rom. 8:29), Be transformed (2 Cor. 3:18), Be formed (Gal. 4:19), into Christlikness.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Why Preaching Counts
What is the unique value of the discipline of listening to preaching for Western Christians today? Here are 6 characteristics that separate sound, biblical preaching from Bible reading, memorization, and meditation:
1. Good preaching rescues us from our self-deceptions and blind spots. Left to ourselves, we tend to ignore the very things in God's Word that we most need to see. Preaching covers texts and topics outside of our control.
2. Preaching brings us before God's Word in the special presence of the Holy Spirit as he indwells the gathered church.
3. Good preaching challenges us to do things we otherwise would not and gives us the will to do them. God has given speakers a remarkable power to spur others to take action.
4. As our church communities listen to good preaching, it brings us into the place of corporate — rather than just individual — obedience.
5. Good preaching causes humility by disciplining us to sit under the teaching, correction, and exhortation of another human. Relying on ourselves alone for food from the Word can lead to a spirit of arrogance and spiritual independence.
6. Good preaching gives a place for a spiritually qualified person to protect believers from dangerous error. The apostles repeatedly warned that untrained and unstable Christians — as well as mature believers — can be easily led astray by false doctrines. Christians are sheep; false teachers are wolves; preachers are guardian shepherds.
1. Good preaching rescues us from our self-deceptions and blind spots. Left to ourselves, we tend to ignore the very things in God's Word that we most need to see. Preaching covers texts and topics outside of our control.
2. Preaching brings us before God's Word in the special presence of the Holy Spirit as he indwells the gathered church.
3. Good preaching challenges us to do things we otherwise would not and gives us the will to do them. God has given speakers a remarkable power to spur others to take action.
4. As our church communities listen to good preaching, it brings us into the place of corporate — rather than just individual — obedience.
5. Good preaching causes humility by disciplining us to sit under the teaching, correction, and exhortation of another human. Relying on ourselves alone for food from the Word can lead to a spirit of arrogance and spiritual independence.
6. Good preaching gives a place for a spiritually qualified person to protect believers from dangerous error. The apostles repeatedly warned that untrained and unstable Christians — as well as mature believers — can be easily led astray by false doctrines. Christians are sheep; false teachers are wolves; preachers are guardian shepherds.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
9 things I am praying will happen in 2009
1. I am praying for our church to grow numerically, spiritually and financially
2. I am praying that new leaders will arise from the ministry
3. I am praying that we will be sensitive to the Spirit of God as He directs us into new areas
4. I am praying that we will become more effective in our follow up
5. I am praying that we will take a more aggressive attitude toward reaching out to the Lost
6. I am praying we will be risk takers
7. I am praying will understand the times we are living in
8. I am praying we will not be satisfied with what is
9. I am praying for Gods will in all things
2. I am praying that new leaders will arise from the ministry
3. I am praying that we will be sensitive to the Spirit of God as He directs us into new areas
4. I am praying that we will become more effective in our follow up
5. I am praying that we will take a more aggressive attitude toward reaching out to the Lost
6. I am praying we will be risk takers
7. I am praying will understand the times we are living in
8. I am praying we will not be satisfied with what is
9. I am praying for Gods will in all things
Thursday, January 8, 2009
5 Reasons churches are not growing
5. Ineffective Attendance Tracking
4. Lack of Guest Follow-up
3. Lack of Hospitality
3. Ineffective Assimilation/Discipleship
1. Worship Services that aren’t Worth Shouting About
read more www.billtennybrittian.com
4. Lack of Guest Follow-up
3. Lack of Hospitality
3. Ineffective Assimilation/Discipleship
1. Worship Services that aren’t Worth Shouting About
read more www.billtennybrittian.com
Sunday, January 4, 2009
9 questions for 2009
9 questions to ask yourself as you begin 2009
1. Am I Secure in my Salvation?
2. Do I have a positive outlook on life?
3. Am I committed to the cause of Christ?
4. Do I have a growing Spiritual Life?
5. Am I happy?
6. Is my life in order?
7. Am I Free?
8. Am I a giver?
9. Am I living courageously?
1. Am I Secure in my Salvation?
2. Do I have a positive outlook on life?
3. Am I committed to the cause of Christ?
4. Do I have a growing Spiritual Life?
5. Am I happy?
6. Is my life in order?
7. Am I Free?
8. Am I a giver?
9. Am I living courageously?
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