BEYOND WORDS: THE FREEDOM OF FORGIVENESS

April 21, 2024

Charles Billingsley

 

Has anyone ever done you wrong? Mary H. of Florida visited a killer in prison, offering forgiveness to him, while her family lambasted her for doing so, as he had slain her daughter in a jealous rage. How much did it cost her to do that? How much did it cost God to give His only Son to die for our sins, two thousand years ago? Forgiveness is not cheap: it dearly costs the one who gives it, yet the one who offers it finds a freedom that is indescribable. Today we look at forgiveness—and how God views unforgiveness. He commands us to forgive our enemies, as well as our friends, who hurt or harm us beyond description.  The only way that is possible is to understand how much God has forgiven us. To forgive is a big command (Phil. 4:13), but we must be obedient if we expect Him to forgive us (Mark 11:26).

Focal Passages: Matthew 18:21-35, 6:12-14, Luke 6:37, 17:3-4, Mark 11:25-26, 1 Jn. 1:9.

Accept the Forgiveness of God

• Read Matt. 18:21-22. How do we become a person who forgives when someone has wronged us? What is the first step we must take? Read Matt. 18:15-16. What are some ways you can be wronged?
• Read Matt. 18:25. How seriously does God take it if we don’t forgive someone who has sinned against us? Is it a suggestion or a command?
• Can anyone share an example when someone did them wrong? Did you forgive them immediately? How did you get the strength to forgive them? What kind of reaction did you receive? How is it possible to forgive someone, but unrealistic to expect to forget the situation? Does ‘not forgetting’ mean you haven’t forgiven? No.
• Who is the hardest person to forgive? Who is at the root of making certain we never forget that we have committed an “unforgiveable” action? How can we get beyond that?

Practice the Forgiveness of God                                                                                                                         

• In our parable for today, how much did the servant owe the king? How much did another man owe the servant? Why did the king forgive the servant? Why did the servant not forgive his debtor?
• If God said, “You owe me $1.2 Billion in order to spend eternity in heaven,” could we pay it? Why did (does) He extend His forgiveness to us freely? What did it cost Him?
• We accept God’s free gift, so why do we withhold forgiveness from a friend who has not repaid us $5K? What are some ways it costs us to forgive a wrong done to us? What type of freedom do we get when we forgive someone who has hurt us?

REACHing for the Forgiven—an Acronym for Forgiveness:

• R—for RECALL-remember the hurt that was done to you as objectively as you can.
• E—for EMPATHIZE-try to understand the viewpoint of the person who wronged you.
• A—for ALTRUISM- think about a time you hurt someone and were forgiven, then offer the gift of forgiveness to the person who hurt you.
• C—for COMMITTING-publicly forgive the person who wronged you. (This is not always possible).
• H—for HOLDING ON-not forgetting the hurt but reminding yourself that you made the choice to forgive.

Forgiving Like God

How does God forgive us:

• God forgives us completely! Read 1 John 1:9.
• God forgives repeatedly! Read Mark 3:28.
• God forgives us generously! Read Luke 7:47a.
• God forgives freely! Read Eph. 1:7.

Close:

                  As most of us know, sometimes it is not the forgiving of others that causes us to lose sleep as much as that we do not allow our own hearts to forgive ourselves for heinous sins which we have committed. We can waste a huge amount of time regretting things we have done that disgraced or grieved the heart of God. Yet if God has forgiven us, (and He has if we have genuinely repented and offered to Him a broken heart and contrite spirit), why do we hold our own standards above His and grieve Him even more by our unforgiveness toward ourselves? We need to take this seriously and stop letting Satan ruin our days or nights over sins that God has put in the depth of the ocean.

How do we accept His forgiveness? By an act of our will. By making a choice to do so. How do we accept the truth of salvation? How do we accept that He loves us? How do we accept that Scripture is “inspired by God”? We accept it because He cannot lie, and His promises are true.  1 John 1:9 states that if “we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” So we either believe that, as a promise of God, or we reject it and say our sin was too big, too bad, too long-reaching for Him to forgive. Shame on us.

As Charles finished today, he asked you to examine your life: If there are people you refuse to forgive for what they’ve done to you, you need to ask yourself “AM I REALLY SAVED?”

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                                                                April 21, 2024

 

BEYOND WORDS: FOUR CONDITIONS OF THE HEART

April 07, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

If you have ever wondered why Jesus taught the common people with parables, you are not alone! In today’s Focal Passage, Matthew 13, the disciples asked Jesus “Why do You speak to them in parables?” They genuinely desired to understand. As you will see in the sermon, these parables were illustrations that Jesus used in order to describe a deep thought or come alongside a statement or thought to bring out the truth. They also are meant to separate those who truly desire to understand what Jesus is saying from those who have only a mediocre interest, emotional impulse, or even a disdain for the meaning. As we study this chapter, you will be able to discern the condition of your heart as you identify which type of person you are.

Focal Passages: Matthew 13:10-13, 1-9, 19-22.

THE FOUR CONDITIONS OF THE HEART:                                                                                                    

• Read Matt. 13:10-14. Does Jesus know the hearts of all men? According to verse 11, why did He choose those particular twelve apostles? In verse 11b, what does He say about the “common people”? What did He mean?
• In vv. 13-14, what did Jesus say would happen when people heard what He would be preaching? What did He mean?

The Hard Heart                                                                                                                           

• Read Matt. 13:1-9. What does this parable illustrate when you connect it to the passage above? Where kind of soil (one’s heart) does the first type of seed fall into? What was the ‘wayside’ soil? What characterized it? Would anything grow there?
• Read verse 19. Jesus now explains this seed. What type of person is represented here? When they hear preaching, or attend a worship service, what is their reaction? What are they likely to be doing during the message? Even though they are hard-hearted, is there hope that they can be saved? Why?

The Volatile Heart

• Read verses 5-6 and vv. 20-21. On what type of soil did the second seed fall? Does anyone recall the picture from Israel of the area of Masada? What did it look like? How does this ground receive the seed?
• Would the plant in this type of soil enable the roots to grow well? If someone with a stony heart hears the sermon, and enjoys it, and perhaps is stirred emotionally by it, what will eventually happen? Is it possible they could eventually get saved? Why?

The Distracted Heart

• Read verse 7 and verse 22. Where does the third type of seed fall? What happens when this seed springs up? What do the thorns represent? Can the person who embraces the truth, but is pulled by the world with the lust for riches and the cares of this world, bear fruit?
• We know no one is outside of the scope of God’s grace. These people without fruit may be in a back-slidden condition, or, in this parable, they may be unsaved. What must they do to return to the Lord if they have let Satan render them fruitless? Read Matt. 3:10, 7:17-19, Luke 13:9.

The Tender Heart

• Read vv. 8-9 and verse 23. What are the characteristics of the person whose seed falls on “good ground”? Does God ask for a certain amount of fruit? Why will fruit always come from a heart that is sold out to God?
• Read John 15:1-8 and Luke 8:15. What does God expect from us?

Close:

            Over the years we who have been Christians since youth or grown up in a home with Christian parents who raised us to know and love Jesus Christ have gotten so familiar with Biblical words like “parables,” “fruit,” Spiritual gifts,” “communion,” “baptism,” and so many others that we sometimes use these terms without giving thought to those who are new to the faith. In other words, the question asked by the disciples (“why do you teach the people with parables”) may seem strange to us, but could it possibly have been a fairly new concept for the disciples? They honestly wanted to know why Jesus didn’t just say—in plain language—what He was trying to teach. He knew those who truly had a heart that wanted to understand Him would seek out the truth.

We see a similar question when, in Matthew 6:9-13, the disciples asked Jesus to “teach us to pray, as John has taught his disciples.” Prayer has come so naturally to us that we may forget it is a learned action! It is giving praise to God, speaking to Him as to a beloved Father, having a conversation with the Holy Creator of the universe, yet the One who loves us so much we are able to come boldly before His throne with our cares and supplications. We should never look down on anyone who has not had the advantage of a relationship with Jesus Christ for many years, but mentor and teach them to embrace it with all the love in their mind, heart, soul, and strength!

By Sandy Day

April 07, 2024

 

 

 

 

BEYOND BELIEF: FROM DEATH TO LIFE

THE HEALING OF THE WIDOW’S SON

March 24, 2024

Charles Billingsley

As we end our series on the miracles of Jesus, we find the perfect illustration of this act of Jesus in Matthew 18:12-14, one of His parables. This widow—residing in Nain—had no way to make a living now that both her husband and her son were dead. Jesus, walking with his disciples, went to this small town seeking her. The road led only to this village, a few miles from Nazareth. He said nothing to anyone else, and she was His only focus. She was the ONE He sought, for the ninety-nine were safe. Like the woman at the well, her testimony of Jesus (raising her dead son back to life) was seen or heard about by a great number, and they said, “God has visited His people.” The Shepherd sought His lost sheep, she was found, and many glorified God because of her.

Focal Passages: Luke 7:11-17, Psalm 121:5-8, 139:1-4, 34:18-19, John 11:25, Ephesians 2:4-5, Romans 5:8, Matt. 18:12-14.

The Scene:

• Read Luke 7:11-12. What is happening in the streets of the ancient city of Nain? What was the group of people in the “extremely large” (possibly even one or two thousand) group, and who was the second group of much less, though still “large”? What city was a close neighbor? Where did the two groups meet? What did each represent?
• Can you imagine two households (not these groups) next to each other, one having a giant party of celebration, the other having lost a close relative; how would each view the other? Do you think there could have been contention for a moment, or respect?
• Read vv. 12-13. Who are the four characters in this miracle? What was the common denominator between the two males? What did Jesus see? How often do we see Jesus meet someone and “have compassion on them”? Do we have compassion for people?

His compassion:

• What did Jesus say to the woman? Do you think she understood what He meant? Do you ever consider that Jesus has compassion on you when trouble comes? In verse 13, when Jesus “saw” her, did He see her deepest need? Does He see your deepest needs?
• Read Psa. 121:5-8. Does the Lord ever take His eyes off you? How often are you aware of His constant watchfulness? How often are you aware of the needs of the people you meet throughout your day?
• How much did He know about her? Was He totally aware of her entire situation, and every need she had, now that she was not only a widow but also the mother of a dead son? Read Psalm 139:1-4. During times when you are choosing the wrong path (even in such a “small” matter like traffic, are you very conscious of the fact that Jesus sees your sins, fears, and faults as well as the good you are doing?

He feels her pain:

• Read Psa. 34:18-19 and Luke 7:14. What did Pastor Charles mean when he said, “Real compassion requires action”? Read Luke 10:30-37. Which of the three would you have been? His touch: Why would Jesus have been able to touch the son and not be unclean?

His power: How powerful is Jesus? Read Rom. 1:20 and Luke 7:16-17. How did the people of Nain react? Did Jesus give him a new body or new life for his soul?

• Read Rom. 5:8. Which is stronger, the power of death or the power of our God? This coming Sunday we will celebrate that death itself it about to die!

Close:

There is still a town called Nein (Nain) today in the same area, though not at all large. In Luke’s writing it was called a “city”, but no record is found to give a number to the residents. In fact, the Romans felt the village of Nazareth—as well as Nain—so ineffective that neither was even listed by them among towns, which might explain why Nathanael had remarked, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” This small village (or city in the time of Christ) was only twelve miles from where Jesus grew up. Obviously, Jesus went to Nain for only one purpose: because this grieving widow, without husband or son, now without a way to have food to eat, was one of His chosen ones. He sought no one else, talked with no one else, and apparently left after giving the mother back her son, fully alive and well. He had sought the “one” from the ninety-nine.

Can you imagine the scene? The dust of the area, the heat, people walking in the two large groups and “colliding” as the jovial crowd met the distraught grieving mother who had no idea how she would eat tomorrow. Jesus knew this and had compassion on her. He walked straight to her to say, “Do not weep.” He had to have presented authority, love, compassion and more as the large crowd with her stopped long enough for Jesus to lay His hand on the “coffin,” whatever that was at the time. When He addressed the son of the widow, Jesus told him to “arise”. Some would have jeered, but they would have stopped the moment there was some movement, then the son sat up. He would have looked around, knew he felt wonderful, saw his mother and immediately would have run to her. Jesus would have probably walked away—He had done what He had come for.  As recorded in Matt. 11:5, as Jesus responded to John the Baptist’s question, “Are you the One?” He would have replied, “Tell John what you see…the dead are raised up!” One day every knee will bow. Do it now, before it’s eternally too late. Believe on Jesus Christ with all your heart, repent of your sins, and confess Him as Lord.

By Sandy Day

March 24, 2024

 

 

 

 

BEYOND BELIEF: FEAR OR FAITH

March 10, 2024

Matt Willmington

Today we continue our series, Beyond Belief, looking at some of the miracles Jesus performed during the three years that encompassed His ministry before the crucifixion. Miracles, as Scott Bulman shared, are those impossible acts of significance that occur during a time of desperate circumstances. Are you one of those who needs a miracle in your life today? You can’t escape the turbulence of life but you can learn to praise God in the middle of your storm, even while it is happening. When you are having a period of agonizing days (or weeks, or months) do you have a fear of what’s happening or a faith that God will show up and bring you through the storm? You don’t want to hear Him to say “O, you of little faith” but “Well done!”

Focal Passages: Matthew 8:23-28, Jonah 1, Job 1, 38, Romans 1.

The Raging Storm:

• Read Matt. 8:23-24. As we hear often, there is no better place to be than with Jesus, in the center of His Read verse 18 to learn the current circumstances. Who gets in the boat first? As the disciples follow Him, are they doing what He asked of them when He had originally called them? What about the scribe in verse 19? These disciples, then, were doing God’s will, and yet the storm still came–one that threatened their lives.
• How quickly did it come? Are you someone who has figured out that you can have your day planned but all it takes is one phone call or text for your schedule to be completely cast aside?
• This storm was “seismic”! What does that mean to you? Can you share if that is a good description for something you have gone through, or are going through? Where do the storms come from? If one has been ordained by God, what may be the reasons (Jn. 9:3, 5:14, Deut. 8:2, Jonah 1:3a, 4)? If Satan or evil is behind it, what can you do (Luke 4:8, Jas. 4:7) and (Luke 22:3, 31, 1 Chron. 21:1, Luke 13:16)? Is it possible your storm is of your own making? If so, take immediate steps to get to the source, change it if you can or if you need to, or repent if there is sin involved. God will restore you!

The Reactions:

• Read Matt. 8:25-26. How did the disciples react? What were some of the miracles they had recently seen? We wonder how they could have been so dense; are there situations in your life that cause you worry, yet you forget how faithful God has been to you the past year or decade? What is the first thing Jesus says to His disciples?
• What was Jesus more concerned about in the moment, the faith of His disciples or the boat sinking? Read Mark 4:39. The Greek can be translated “Hush! Be still!” Read Job 9:7, 36:32, Psa. 89:9, Rom. 1:20. How can you prove that God controls all things?
• How did the disciples react to Jesus’ command to the storm? Was it building their faith?

The Result:

• Read Matt. 8:28a. Did the boat get to where it was supposed to go? Do you ever take notice in your life of how faithful God has been, and how He has always brought you through every storm, getting you “to the other side”? Is Romans 8:28 real to you?
• The greater the storm, the greater the calm. Do you realize He’s always within you?

APPLICATIONS:                                                                                                                                             

1. Jesus was in the boat! It was not about the storm, it’s not about you, and you are not the victim.

2. Don’t mistake God’s silence in the boat for His absence from the storm in your life.

3. Storms are “faith gyms.” They cause us to move from fear of the storm to faith in God. The storms cause trees to put their roots deeper so they grow stronger—just as we should, too!

4. He will always get your boat to the shore!

Close:

Are we like the disciples as storms come into our lives, resorting instantly to fear, rather than faith? Let’s face it, most of us go from one crisis to another; we have a health issue that is eventually healed by our doctor, only to have a child make mistakes that could impact their eternal life. We endure stress for something expensive that needs to be replaced and wonder where the money will come from to pay the doctor. Sometimes in frustration we’ll remark that we’ve done everything we can, so we’ll have to pray. No! We MUST cultivate an attitude of gratitude as God ministers to our needs daily, just as we take care of our children! We should be thanking Him always and intentionally for His goodness. Soon we will start seeing Him work in the moment! He provides for us, takes care of us, protects us, feeds us, clothes us, finds the things we lose, gives us patience when we’re angry, loves us when we’re upset…. how can we not fall on our knees and cry out to Him that we need Him every hour? He calms the storms in our lives every day. He never leaves us. There’s nothing that our God can’t do! 

            “For I know that the LORD is great, and our LORD is above all gods. Whatever the LORD pleases He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deep places. He causes the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; He makes lightning for the rain, He brings the wind out of His treasuries.” Psa. 135:5-7. “He does great things which we cannot comprehend!” (Job 37:5b).

 

By Sandy Day

March 10, 2024

 

 

 

 

BEYOND BELIEF: JESUS MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

                                                               February 25, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

In 2 Peter 3:15-16, Peter writes that the “beloved [apostle] Paul…has written to you…some things which are hard to understand”! This is a very true statement, not just of Paul, but no matter how learned someone may be, there can be a passage or a verse that presents a thought or idea that may cause us to wonder what God means. Today’s miracle of the fish with the coin in its mouth is a good illustration. We all know that Jesus is able to do anything He desires but the “why” is sometimes obscure. Join us as we learn why Jesus wanted Peter to take money to pay a tax that He didn’t owe. We want to answer the question, “Why is this in the Bible?”

Focal Passage: Matthew 17:24-27

Being in the family makes all the difference:

• Read Matt. 24-26. As the incident occurs, what was the temple tax? Why do you think the collectors of the temple tax accosted Peter, rather than Jesus? Speculation is useless as to why they would have been hesitant to ask Jesus directly, but for the sake of knowing the situation better, what could have been a reason? Why did Peter say “Yes”?
• How did Jesus know what had happened with Peter, prior to his coming into the house? What does that tell you about your own life, and the intimate knowledge He has of what is going on with you even when you don’t see Him with your eyes?
• Why did Jesus take this moment as a “teachable moment” to illustrate to Peter His unique position? What are some benefits our children receive from us as their parents? What are some of the advantages they have because they are our children?
• Whose house was the temple? Read Matt. 5:17 and Gal. 4:4. Why did He—the Son—still pay tax? Did Jesus pay this tax because He, in human form, was fulfilling the laws?

But we must be a witness:

• Read Matt. 17:27a. If Jesus had not paid the temple tax, would the collectors feel He was somehow setting Himself apart from them? What kind of testimony would He have been had He ignored their taxes because He was the Son of God? Did they yet believe that?
• Who is it that we—as Christians—want to be a witness to? Do you think Peter understood why Jesus was doing this?
• Read 1 Thess. 5:22. How did Jesus illustrate this verse?

But don’t worry, be happy—Jesus paid it all!

• Read Matt.17:27b. What did Jesus tell Peter to do? If you were Peter, what would be going through your mind? Do we ever doubt Jesus when we feel like He is telling us to do something we might think is a bit quirky?
• What does this section of verse 27 tell you about His authority over all the earth and everything in it? Does He have any less power now than He did at that time?

APPLICATIONS:                                                                                                                                             

1. As children of God, this world should not be our worry!

2. While here, we must be “IN” but not “OF” the world but should be a witness of the Gospel.

3. In the midst of the insanity of the day, He is still a miracle working God in our lives!

4. TRUST HIM!

Close:

Right now—just like other times in the past—life seems to be nothing but a giant mass of worry-causing events, happening one right after another. We cannot control the crises that seem to come daily, nor the people who cause the chaos, nor even how involved we sometimes get, though we don’t mean to. What we CAN control is our reaction to whatever the world is throwing at us. Like Peter, who was outside of his house when the tax collectors asked him if Jesus paid the temple tax, we have a God who is with us every moment whether we realize it or not. He is not unaware of what is happening with us at any time. He not only knows who we are interacting with, but what they are doing to our spirit. He cares how we’re thinking, how we’re feeling, and especially, how we’re trusting Him in all our circumstances.

What about you? Does Jesus ever tell you to go somewhere and do something? He might not tell you to go to water and cast in your fishing line with a hook on it, but it could still be something as easy. And you might think, “Lord, that is so crazy! I need (fill in the blank), and You’re telling me to do (this)??” Read the story of the leper, Naaman in 2 Kings 5. Elisha told him, at God’s direction, to go wash in the Jordan River to be healed. He thought that was nonsense, until someone of his own counsel told him to do it. Of course, he was healed. What need do you have in your life that you would be told to “go fishing”? Perhaps it seems a waste of time to you, but Jesus does nothing in our lives that is a waste of time. As with Peter, He desires our complete trust that He knows what He is doing. As we sang this morning, He is our Solid Rock with Love Divine! Praise Him for loving us through all our sinful actions, careless words, or inept witnessing! Praise Him for His presence in our lives, and for “remembering our frame, that we are but dust.” Praise Him for life, for miracles beyond number, for family, for friends, for a loving church, but most of all, for heaven with Him one day. What a Day that will be!

By Sandy Day

February 25, 2024

 

 

 

BEYOND BELIEF: THE COST OF A COUNTERFEIT FAITH:

THE CURSING OF THE FIG TREE

February 11, 2024

Charles Billingsley

 

Most adults know to be aware of counterfeit items—watches, money, jewelry, etc. But the term can apply to people as well, meaning their reputation does not gel with the actions they often carry out. Jesus likened the Pharisees of His day to “white-washed sepulchers, beautiful on the outside but full of evil within.” They were counterfeit religious leaders, which we see in today’s world as well. Today we will see Jesus doing a destructive miracle in His ministry as He curses a fig tree—illustrating Israel—which has leaves but no fruit. The nation of Israel knew God but did not worship Him. Instead, they decided their “gods” were whatever made them feel good—resulting in a counterfeit faith with eternal consequences.

Focal Passage: Mark 11:11-26

The What: Jesus Curses the Fig Tree:

• Read Mark 11:12. Almost everyone has heard the story of the fig tree that was cursed by Jesus; what are some things you recall of this miracle? What is the phrase that causes people to feel confused about the fig tree? Are you aware it is incorrectly understood?
• Read verse 13-14. Why was Mark quick to point out that Jesus became hungry, just as we do? What did the leaves on the tree signify? Jesus saw the leaves and knew young edible “buds”, called taksh, should be on the tree. What did He do when He saw the tree was not filled with the taksh?
• If the presence of leaves should have also indicated the presence of the tender taksh—which would eventually become figs—did this mean the tree was barren?
• How did the fruitless state of this tree parallel Israel as she embraced false religions and caused her to be unable to recognize God’s Son as the promised Messiah?

Jesus Lowers the Boom:

• Read vv. 15-19. How is this action by Jesus like the story of the fig tree? How was Israel fruitless in her worship of God and in prayer?
• Can someone recall what Charles said when he described the millions of pilgrims, and how the religious leaders made huge profits from selling animals to sacrifice? What did Jesus do in His fury at the misuse of the temple? What did the word “destroy” mean?

The Why: Jesus Teaches the Lesson Behind the Miracle:

• Read vv. 20-21. What did Jesus say when the disciples pointed out the dead fig tree? What was the answer to both? How did “Have Faith in God” answer their question?
• Read 2 Pet. 1:5-9. Where there is faith, is there always fruit? Why is it so vital that we have fruit? Read Matt. 7:15-20, Luke 6:44, John 15:2. Are you a fruit-bearer?

BE A PERSON OF FAITH: It is the doorway to knowing God.

• Read Mk. 11:23, Matt. 7:15-20, 9:22, 25. Charles asked, “Do you know anyone who’s moved a mountain”? Dr. Jerry Falwell certainly did! What mountains have YOU moved with your faith? Are there miracles you have seen in your own life?
• Is there a mountain you are currently dealing with that needs to be moved?

BE A PERSON OF PRAYER: It is the passageway to hearing God.

• Read Matt. 6:9-13, Rom. 1:9, Mark 11:25. Why is it so vitally important that we are in a right relationship to God before asking for something in prayer?
• Have you learned how to pray constantly? Fervently? Do you intercede for others during their times of need? Do you listen for God to speak after you have prayed?

BE A PERSON WHO FORGIVES: It is the roadway to freedom with God.

• Read Mk. 11:25-26, Mt. 6:12, 14-15, 18:21, 35, Rom. 4:7 and Eph. 1:7. Why is forgiveness among Christians so crucial? Why do we wish God’s forgiveness for our sins, but have such trouble forgiving others? Is there anyone who you need to forgive?
• Do you have trouble forgiving yourself for the sins of the past? When is the last time you accepted the forgiveness Christ offers, putting your past to death? How did you do it?

BE A PERSON WHO WORSHIPS: It is the gateway to the presence of God.

• Read Jn. 15:1-8. Do you realize that everything God has made worships Him? Humans are the only creation that have a choice. Read Rev. 5:13 (all creatures in heaven, earth and sea), Joel 1:20 (stone, beam), Luke 4:41 (demons), 19:40 (rocks), Job 38:7 (the morning stars sing). Do you actually worship God when you attend a service on Sunday? What moves you to bow to our Holy God—the music? The sermon? Testimonies?
• How often are you alone and feel the need or the impetus to worship God? He is Holy and deserves the praise of His creation.

Close:

As we speak about God, especially contemplating faith, prayer, forgiveness and worship, we reflect on Romans 1:19-25. This passage sums up humanity, and how these few short years on earth will look when compared to eternity. “…Since the creation of the world [God’s] invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that [mankind is] without excuse; because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. [They] exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.” Don’t let this be you! We are not promised tomorrow, and eternity will be forever.

 

By Sandy Day

February 11, 2024

 

 

BEYOND BELIEF: THE MIRACLE OF JESUS

January 28, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

We are beginning a new series today, based on the four gospels, which will lead us up to Easter. The gospels are records of Jesus’ ministry, written by four individuals, two of whom were apostles, and two who believed Jesus was the Messiah. Each one recorded accounts of what Jesus said and miracles He performed. John concluded his book with the words, “And there were other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.” (Jn. 21:25). His very first miracle as the Christ child was written in Jn. 1:14: “And the Word [Jesus] became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father.” He left His glory in heaven to come to the earth to live and walk among us. Praise His holy name!

Focal Passage: Acts 2:22-32.

The miracles of Jesus were a display of His Godly power:

• Read Acts 2:22b. Why did Jesus—the second Person of the Godhead—take on flesh and come to earth? Read John 1:11-14. Why does John say Jesus came?
• Read NT passages Mark 1:25-28, 30-34; 3:1,5; and 5:2,18-19. Today, if we hear of a “faith-healer,” why are we skeptical? Who was He healing? Were they almost all known to friends and neighbors? Did anyone doubt His power?
• Read Isa. 42:6-7 and Matt. 11:3-6. Where did Jesus get His power? As a Man, did He keep His Deity?

Their purpose was to reveal His presence and provision:

• Read Acts 2:23-24. Always keep in mind that Jesus is God (clothed in flesh); why did He say He had come? Read John 6:38-40, Mat. 5:17-18, Mark 1:37-38, 1 Pet. 2:24-25.
• Why is it not possible that man could kill Him?

So we would fully understand He is all we need for our salvation:

• Read Acts 2:25-28. What were things about God that David knew a thousand years before Christ came? How did he know God this well? Do you have this closeness of fellowship with God? What would it take to have it?
• We know Jesus came in order that we who are His children could be saved. Read Heb. 10:59, Jn. 46:40, Jn. 9:39, Mark 10:45, 1 Jn. 3:8b, and 1 Pet. 2:24-25. Do these statements of His salvation that is available by grace give us everything we need?
• Why is it said that we do not have to die if we are saved?

His work among us continues to this day:

• Read Acts 2:29-32. What was Peter referring to when he said that “we are all witnesses to this”? How many people can you think of offhand who saw Jesus after the Resurrection? If someone in Lynchburg died and over 500-600 people saw them a few days later, what would be the response?
• Why do you think so many people were allowed to see Jesus after His rising again? Read 1 Cor. 15:3-8. How do you think seeing Him alive again affected those who saw Him?
• Read Acts 5:32. Who was Peter speaking to? When we are aware that the Holy Spirit has said or done something for us, are we experiencing the working of the Godhead? Can you give an example?

God will not allow you to impact the eternal until you’ve allowed Him to impact the internal, so PRAY!!

 

Close:

The miracles of Jesus were evidence of His Deity, being 100% God, yet 100% man. It is probably something we will never grasp fully. As stated in one of the points in today’s sermon study, we in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries are very skeptical when we hear of someone “healing” people at a meeting. We don’t believe it, assuming the “healer” has made their way through the crowd beforehand, getting some to act out a healing, perhaps for money. The Pharisees tried to convince themselves this was what Jesus was doing, but In the case of Jesus, this was not so.

As He traveled in and around the area of Jerusalem, most of the people knew the ones who daily begged because they were blind, lame, or had some other infirmity. In the case of the man who could not walk, even the Pharisees were asking if this wasn’t the man who sat every day asking for money. They refused to believe there was not some sort of dishonesty going on. That is why, when John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if He were the Messiah, Jesus quoted Isaiah, as He was doing those miracles that Isaiah had written the Messiah would be doing.

In our own lives, we ask God for things continually—healings, salvations, help, money, etc. Our list gets very long, but we know God hears us, and though we may not always be sure He will give us what we are asking for, we know He CAN if He so desires. To have Him answer a prayer quickly, rather than sometime later, or provide for us at the time it is necessary, is to participate in His willingness to remind us that we are His children, and as such, He loves us beyond the scope of our understanding. What a wonder! Don’t hold yourself back from having this relationship with Him, for there is no other like it.

 

By Sandy Day

January 28, 2024

 

 

 

 

HOW TO WALK WITH JESUS IN 2024

January 14, 2024

Matt Willmington

If we had asked for a show of hands in the morning service, do you think most of the congregation would have admitted they “follow” someone (or many) on social media or YouTube? Probably! And yet how many actually know the people they follow? Depending on your sphere of interest, do they use profanity as they do their monologue or writing? Do they write of profane things, or have pictures that you shouldn’t view? Do they glorify Christ as our Savior? Almost all of us follow someone but is it someone who will take us to a place that will bring us closer to Jesus? Nothing else is worth our time! He is the only One we should follow.

Focal Passages: Luke 9:23-24; Gen. 5:22-24, 6:9, 17:1, 48:15; Ex. 16; Lev. 18:4, 26:12; Deut. 6:7; I Sam. 12:2; 1 Kings 3:3, 6, 14; Acts 2:46, 6:1, 16:5, 17:11; Heb. 3:13; 1 Jn. 2:6.

Where are you walking in 2024? When you get where you’re going, where will you be?                                           Who are you following? Will they lead you to Jesus?                                                                                                          Who are you walking with? Will they destroy you or get you where you want to go?                                                          The correct answer to these questions? JESUS!

  Walk:

• Read Genesis 3:8-9. Were Adam and Eve in a perfect world? Why were they not satisfied with what God had provided? Why did He ask, “Where are you?” Did He mean physically? What had God been doing? Was He wanting them to walk with Him?
• Read Gen. 5:22-24. What do you think Enoch was doing as he “walked with God”? Read Heb. 11:5 and Jude 1:14. What is one thing that we know he did? Would you like to live your life in such a way that God would say about you, “You pleased me”?
• Read Gen. 6:9. What are some things you know about Noah, outside of this verse? How do you envision that he lived his life? Do you think his sons lived as their father did?
• Read Gen. 17:1. What was God’s instruction to Abraham? Did he do this? Why did he not trust God enough to deny Sarah the suggestion that he lay with Hagar? What was the result of his having a son by Hagar? When did he follow God most closely?
• As you think of the people who are in Hebrews 11 (the “Hall of Faith”), what was the predominant thing about them?

God walking with His people in Good Places:

• If you were asked the theme of the entire Bible, how would you define it?
  • A. The Old Testament:

• Read Micah 6:8 and 2 Chron. 16:9. As you read the Old Testament, what did it point to? What did God seek in the Garden of Eden? What was the giving of the Law for? Why did He allow Solomon to build a Temple? What were two main themes of the OT prophets?
  • B. The Gospels of the New Testament:
• What is the essence of the New Testament? Why did God robe Himself in flesh and come to dwell among us? Did He leave us helpless when He returned to heaven?
  • C:  The Letters of the New Testament:
• What were some of the main issues that were addressed often in the letters of Paul, James, Peter, and John?

How to walk with Jesus in 2024:

• Read Luke 9:23-24. What is the very first admonition to walking with Jesus found twice in this passage? If you don’t “want” to do something, what usually happens? In your average day, how many non-business things do you do that you don’t want to?
• God tells us four things we must do if we want to walk with Him. What is the first one?

What must we deny ourselves? What does God desire from you? How hard is it to do?

• What is the second one? What kind of cross do we carry? What are things we must give up? Are you willing to give up things in your life that you would be ashamed of if you could physically see Jesus walking beside you? Yet what does He say of your body?
• What does He mean, that you must FOLLOW Him? In Psa. 23, where does He lead?

Take time later to read these Scriptures for walking with Jesus: Acts 2:46, 6:1, 16:5, 17:11, and Heb. 3:13. How often do we do all these things?

How do we follow Jesus together at TRBC:

• Does anyone know the Mission Statement for our church? Condense it to four words.
• What are some activities we can engage in that will help us walk with Jesus daily?
• Why is fellowship with others so important to living our Christian life?

CLOSE:

            When you think of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, it’s hard to picture a perfect world, with a perfect friend/spouse, with God as the central figure to walk with. Did He appear in His pre-Incarnate form, as He did to Gideon, to Abraham, and others? Possibly. Why, then, were they not satisfied with what He had provided, being willing to obey the one thing He had said not to do? Why did Adam not intercede when Satan deceived his wife?

What must YOU do to follow Jesus wholeheartedly? Are you like Adam and Eve, willing to give in to Satan’s seductive ways, following paths God has told us not to take, just for the moment’s thrill? Or are you like Enoch and Noah, desiring to walk with God so closely that you are willing to be the butt of jokes from the world, tuning them out as they jeer at you, so you can hear the Father’s voice? Are there things you are not crazy about doing, but since He wants you to, you are willing to die to yourself in order to please Him? It all comes back to you heart, whether you are sold out to be the person He created you to be, or to be the person Satan is trying to get you to be. You will have that fight between the Spirit and the flesh as long as you live, and it’s vital that you stay strong and resist Satan—when you do, he will flee from you!      

 

By Sandy Day

January 14, 2024

 

STARTING OVER (LESSONS FROM THE POTTER’S HOUSE)

December 31, 2023

Charles Billingsley

 

Tomorrow 2024 begins! If you are watching the sermon live, it means God has given you breath to live another year of life as 2023 closes. Today, Charles Billingsley reminds us that every day we live we have the ability to start over, surrendering our lives fully to Jesus Christ. Tomorrow, the first day of 2024, we can put the past behind us, as Paul says, and focus on the future. We can stop making excuses to procrastinate, be idle, or indulge in self-destructive habits and set new goals that will be inspiring, teach us self-discipline, and help us grow in our relationship to the Lord. This should be our way to start every day of the New Year, 2024.

Focal Passage: John 15:5; Gen. 2:7; Isa. 64:8; Jer.18:1-6; Psa. 40:1-2, 139:1-18; Jn. 10:28-30.

THE POTTER

  He has a purpose:

• Read Isaiah 64:8. Most of us have played with clay as children. What do you know about it? Why does Isaiah liken us, as humans, to clay? What does a potter do? Why does the prophet say we are “the work of [God’s] hand?
• Read Jeremiah 18:1-6. God gives Jeremiah a visual lesson for Israel. Where is he to go to learn this lesson? Why does God choose a potter and his clay, rather than (for example) a sheep and the shepherd? Do you know how clay is formed? How does clay differ from mud? Can that be a likeness to a believer and an unbeliever? Why?
• Do you recall from the sermon how clay is “purified” to become fit for a potter to use? In its unpurified state, is it useful to the potter? Why is that?
• Once the clay is on the wheel, does it matter what position it is in? Why is it necessary that the potter has a definite purpose for the piece of clay he begins turning on his wheel? In Jeremiah’s lesson at the Potter’s House, what happened after he started working on the clay? What did the potter do then?

He has a plan:

• Read Psa. 139: 13-14. How are we like the clay? Did God know us before we were created in our mother’s womb? Read Jer. 29:11. Does God have a plan and a purpose for each one of us, just as the potter does for his clay? Does that include every person?

1. He Never Takes His EYES Off of His Creation:

• Read Psa. 139:15-16. How do we know this? Read 1 Cor. 6:19-20. What does that reinforce? If Someone is inside of you (whether we can understand it or not), will He see you constantly? Read 2 Chron. 16:9. Does God ever cease His vigilance over the world?

1. He Never Takes His MIND Off of His Creation:

• Read Psa. 139:1-4, 17-18 and 2 Chron. 16:9. What would happen to the clay on the wheel if the potter took his eyes off of his work? How does that illustrate the truth that God never ceases from watching over His world?

 C:  He Never Takes His HANDS Off of His Creation:

• Read Psa. 139:5-10, Prov. 13:5 and Psa. 121:8. God is Omnipotent, Omniscient, and Omnipresent. What do these three characteristics mean? Does He have the whole world in His hands right now when things look so bleak?
• Read John 10:28-30. Do we ever have to worry that God will somehow “lose” us to the devil? Is it even possible? How do you know?

THE WHEEL:

• Read Eph. 6:12. Can anything pull the clay off the wheel? What are some of the temptations Satan uses to try to get us to leave God?
• What would have happened to the clay if it had not been in the center of the wheel? What is the analogy for us?

THE WATER, THE CLAY, AND THE FIRE:

• Read Psa. 119:11. The water the potter uses shapes the vessel. What shapes our life? How do we find the will of God for our lives? Today, we are inundated with tools to look up any information we need. If you do not know what God desires of you, how can you find it? Where would you look? What happens if the clay grows dry?
• Read Jer. 18:4. Once the potter had taken the marred clay, what did he do? What was the spiritual lesson Jeremiah learned, in order to tell the people of Israel—and us? Read Heb. 12:5-11. What happens if we fall into sin—and become marred?
• Read Psa. 40:1-2. What does this verse teach us? Read Jn. 10:29. If we are living a life in fellowship with God, will anything take us out of His hand?

CLOSE:

In order to let this amazing sermon permeate your entire being, grab your phone or computer and watch a few YouTube videos as potters work, taking ugly clay and making beautiful vessels, fit for service! After you have watched the videos, go back and once more watch this service. It will mean so much more to imagine the potter and the clay, and God’s reference that HE is the potter—and we are the clay! The analogy that God used for Jeremiah should cause you to beg God to take your heart—perhaps marred by the sins of the world, or perhaps never have been given to Him—and let Him mold you into something He can use, giving you a new purpose and peace as you begin the New Year. You will not regret it.

 

By Sandy Day

December 31, 2023

BEAUTY IN THE BROKEN: BATHSHEBA

December 16, 2023

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

It is amazing how we can form opinions based only on the written word, especially when there is ittle information available except one’s own imagination. In reading the story of David and Bathsheba, the story line centers around King David and his sin against God, as he usurps the authority of his throne in order to send for a girl only because he lusted for her. As we study this woman whose union to David produced the wisest man ever to be born, let’s have an open heart for Bathsheba’s lack of power against the circumstances dictated by a sinful king.

Focal Passage: 2 Samuel 11:1-25; 1 Kings 1:1-30, 2:13-25.

The Background:

• Read 2 Sam. 11:1-3. What are the two strikes against David in verse 1? Where should he have been? In verse 2, what two additional problems do we notice? (What time of the day is it? What was David doing?) In verse 3, the pronoun “he” is slightly ambiguous, but it seems to be a servant who recognizes or knows Bathsheba. Is it slightly surprising that David does not hide his intention?
• Read vv. 3-5. What are two facts told about Bathsheba? Read 2 Sam. 12:23a, 34 and 39. Who were Bathsheba’s father and husband? At the time David took her to the palace, she had no children. What age might she have been, based on their customs? Read 2 Sam. 11:15, 26. What happened? Did Bathsheba mourn for her husband like a woman who loved him?

Her Resilience:

• Read 2 Sam. 12:14a-15. Who can relate the situation Nathan the prophet had with David? How did God feel about David’s sin in vv. 5-6? What were David’s actions while the baby was sick? Why did he put it aside once the child had died?
• In a period of two years, what were the catastrophes that had befallen Bathsheba? Do you think she would have realized that it had been God who allowed the conception? Did she have control in any of the situations or only her own reaction to it?
• Do you find it remarkable that she was eventually able to love the man who had caused such sorrow for her?

Her Restoration:

• Read 2 Sam. 12:24-25. Surely some time had passed since Bathsheba’s baby had died;
• Does anyone remember how many sons David now had? What normally would it take for Solomon to become king over Israel? Why was this situation different?

Her Determination:

• Read 1 Kings 1:11-13. Apparently, in an unrevealed conversation, David told Bathsheba that Solomon would be king. What does she do when Adonijah tries to steal the throne?
• Why did Adonijah feel he should be king? Who besides Bathsheba knew that the Lord had chosen Solomon? What did Bathsheba do? How quickly did David respond?
• Why would this matter so much to Bathsheba? David had not responded when Adonijah wanted to steal the throne (1 Kings 1:6), but in verse 11 it seems he didn’t know. Read vv. 24 and 28. How soon did he act once he was told what was happening?

Her Discernment:

• Read 1 Kings 2:13-25. Why did it matter than Adonijah came to Bathsheba to ask for David’s concubine? Can you think of other children throughout the OT who took their father’s concubine and were punished? What did it signify?
• Why did Solomon immediately realize what Adonijah had in mind? Do you think Bathsheba was naïve about his intentions, or was she going to Solomon in order to squash Adonijah’s determination to get the throne from his younger brother?

Applications for today:                                                                                                                               1) Never forget that today’s tragedies can lead to tomorrow’s victories;                                                     2) The harm others cause you should not define your future—that’s God’s job;                                      3) Stay forever focused on God’s plans and promises for you.

Close:

It is convicting to realize that perhaps we have read the story of David and Bathsheba many times but assumed Bathsheba—bathing on her roof (or wherever)—knew she was in sight of the palace, and possibly intended to attract David. We also may have assumed she was in her twenties. As we think about the scenario, however, we can reshape our thoughts to what we know of the customs at that time. For instance, girls were eligible for marriage when they began their menstrual cycle—so perhaps Bathsheba was only a teen-ager; in fact, she and Uriah had apparently not yet had their own child. In addition, her father, being the son of one of David’s counselors (2 Sam. 15:12) and one of David’s “mighty men,” could have been a friend of Uriah, who was also one of the “mighty men” and she, like Mary, could have loved her husband greatly! All that to say, on reflection, Bathsheba, probably assuming the king was away and bathing in the evening before bed, could have been totally innocent when the King sent for her, and her options felt few and far between. His lust hopefully turned into a comforting love, but she lost her husband and her baby in the meantime. We will hope she became a happy wife and mother, and eventually had several little ones to mother. She spent her last days as the Queen Mother—a prestigious title in any kingdom—and became one of the five women listed in Matt. 1 in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

By Sandy Day

December 17, 2023

      BEAUTY IN THE BROKEN: THE FAITH OF RAHAB

December 03, 2023

Scott Bullman

 

There are some people in the Bible who steal our hearts as we read their story. The young David (“What have I done now?!”) asking what is asked  by children every day; Joseph, Mary’s betrothed, who wanted to “put her away privately” because he loved her so much; Peter, whose foot was in his mouth often, reminding some of us of ourselves. Rahab may fit in this group, as she—though freed from her sin and shame  by salvation—was referred to as “the harlot” for the rest of time. While it may seem unfair, the reason could be that God is reminding every one of us that our backgrounds—who we were before salvation—no longer define who we are now that we have Christ, and give Him the glory for a new life. We are a new creation, with a purpose that means we can be used by the Son of God.

Focal Passage: Joshua 2-6.

Rahab’s Status:

• Will someone please paraphrase the story of the Israeli army as they got ready to attack Jericho? What do we know about Jericho? How did the people live? Why did people live on the wall? About how many acres was the city built on?
• Who was Rahab? Why would it be possible/probable that she ran an inn, catering to travelers, keeping up with the times? What was her “side” business? Why is it that prostitution seems to have been a common part of the history of civilization? In today’s world, what are two major reasons why women are involved in prostitution?
• When the Jericho king learned of the two Israeli spies who had come to Rahab, what did he do? Was Rahab’s lie acceptable? Read Ex. 1:17-19. What made the lie these women told acceptable? Where had Rahab hidden the spies? What happened next?

Rahab’s Salvation:

• When did Rahab declare her faith? Had she made a pact with the spies before she had believed in Israel’s God? How did that differ from Gideon when the pre-incarnate Jesus told him to go do a job for Him (Judg. 6)? When Rahab states the people of Jericho were terrified of Israel, how does that contradict the spies who had gone in to spy out the land 40 years prior, coming back with a verdict that Israel could not conquer them?
• In verse 12a, is there a particular word that stands out to you? She came from brutal, murderous, child-killing Canaanites, yet she uses the word “kindly”; had she possibly already been made a “new creation” (2 Cor. 5:17)? What did she think of God (vs 11b)?
• In verses 13-14, Rahab and the spies complete their pact. What was her part in the agreement? Do you think anyone would notice a red cord hanging from the window of a house on the wall? How would you explain it? Would you have had the courage to have done what she did?

 

• Read James 2:25-26. Why did James mention the faith of Rahab? In this passage, can “fruit” be a synonym for works? We know we are saved by grace alone; where does fruit come into it? Read Jas. 2:14-17. If we know a brother or sister is in need and we have the means to meet their need, why is it sin if we just say “Have a nice day!” and leave? Is that what James is saying? Read Col. 2:6. If we are rooted in Christ, will we have fruit?

Rahab’s Significance:

• Read Hebrews 11:31. How did Rahab show her faith? Do you think she had some fears? What might they have been?
• God had a reason to bring Israel into the Promised Land, giving it to them for the rest of time. Why would He choose a prostitute for the lineage to Christ? What was her relationship to David? How does this encourage you?

 

Close:

As was stated in the opening, the narrative of Rahab in the Scriptures is a story that has enormous implications for most of us! People who feel their lives have been lived so wickedly (in God’s sight) that they can never be used can find wondrous freedom from realizing He does not hold our past against us. Still, sometimes it is those sins that have been made after salvation that can eat us up. But God provides encouragement even in those situations, assuring us in Col. 2:13-15 that all of our sins were nailed to the Cross of Jesus.

Does that give us liberty to sin after salvation? Not at all. We all “fall” into sin on occasion, but Proverbs assures us the righteous fall but get up again. When God speaks of not sinning again, He means you do not live a lifestyle of sin: girls, you do not live with a boyfriend and vice versa. Wait until marriage. Are you waiting? Husbands, live with you wife with the same love Christ has for you with your sins and irritations. Are you often short tempered? Stop it! Commit any unclean thought immediately to Christ, taking it captive (picture chaining it up!), and beg God’s forgiveness and get washed clean. Make these disciplines into habits.

We’re all Rahab’s, Tamar’s, Samson’s, or Jonah’s, but we can do better. As the old hymn says, “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it; prone to leave the God I love!” (Come, Thou fount of Every Blessing). But we don’t have to stay there. We can declare our love for God, follow Him, and be used for His glory. His glory is revealed when our lives are changed, and we are no longer listening to the lies of the world and Satan. Man up, Christians! Step aside from sin!

 

By Sandy Day

December 03, 2023

 

COLOSSIANS 4: THE CALL

November 19, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

One of the saddest things imaginable is for a child or adult to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, respond with enthusiasm, but then not understand how to grow in the Lord, or how to seek Him for daily living, having no one to come alongside and mentor them so they can grow. Paul understood the importance of this, and his letters to the churches throughout his portion of the world were filled with mentoring these new converts by encouraging words—and with the visitations of sound believers whenever possible. In the letter to the Colossians, he made certain to give them instructions to send the letter on to the other churches. He also filled it with directions for daily living that provided ways to seek God on a deeper level through community, family living and personal responsibilities to seek God’s face. Join us!

Focal Passage: Colossians 4

A call to fervent prayer:

• Read Colossians 4:1. In this letter from Paul to the church at Colossae, there were no chapters—it was one continuous letter. Chapter 4: 1 seems to be the ending of 3:22-25, speaking of masters and slaves, or today, employers and employees. What is the responsibility of the believer who hires someone to work for him? Often, we want the job done by the person who is willing to take the lowest pay; would we want Christ to treat us like that? Are we being examples of Christ if we pay them only a lesser amount?
• Read 4:2-4 and 1 Thess. 5:17-18. How does one pray without ceasing? How does “earnestly” fit in here? What did it mean? Where should thanksgiving be in the list?
• What did Paul specifically ask for prayer for, as he and his team ministered to unbelievers? How much do you think it means to Jonathan and the staff to know that you lift them up by name each day? Why? When you need serious prayer, whom do you want to pray for you?
• What acronym did we focus on, in order to make it easy to remember the areas where we need to pray? Why is it helpful to begin with the “Lord’s Prayer” when praying fervently?

A call to a faithful witness:

• Read vv. 5-6. Why is it so necessary that our walk matches our talk? What is the number one complaint when you hear people criticize the local church? What do you tell them?
• Read James 1:5. Is there any reason why any of us should not have wisdom? Each day, can we ask God for wisdom for the encounters we shall have that day? How will this help us as we interact with unbelievers? What does it mean to “redeem the time”?
• How can we use grace and salt when speaking to unbelievers? How often are we impatient or short-tempered and the hearer has no idea why? How can we change? The stickers we often see on cars of “Salt” and “Life” generally are associated with beach life; how can they apply as well to Christians?

A call to fellowship:

• Read Acts 2:44-47. How did the early believers live? What is the closest we can come to that model in today’s world? Without a doubt the church should be the “community” for us and our families. What are some ways in which our church fulfills this fellowship?
• Read vv. 7-15. How was Paul and his team carrying out the call to have fellowship with the believers? Does that mean that all of them will never fail the others? Read 2 Tim. 4:10. What later happened to Demas? Read 1 Cor. 10:12. What does this mean to you?

What’s your call?

• Read vv. 16-18. What were they to say to Archippus? Have you ever experienced the feeling that a particular person was going to be used by God? Did you say anything to them? Sometimes, all it takes for them to come to a decision is the encouragement of another believer. Think about it and ask God to use you.
• Read Jer. 29:11-13 and 31:17a. What does God say to you? Read Heb. 12:1-2 and Job 31:4. God knows every thought we have, every sin we commit and still gives us eternal life. What should be our response?
• How can we discover and get busy with our calling?

 

Close:

How much involved in community are you? To be sitting at your desk, writing a document and a text comes across your phone, saying “I was just sitting here thinking how thankful I am that you’ve been mentoring me, and what a joy it’s been!” That’s community. Or for the phone to ring and a fellow believer says, “I just heard you both are sick; what can I do for you?” That’s community. Knowing if things get too rough, you can call on any of your Life Group and they will bring a meal, that’s community. The prayers that go up on a daily basis, the moments taken out of someone’s busy day to say we’re thinking about you, that’s community.

Living in a college town with a large Christian university that pulls in thousands of students, and hundreds or thousands of staff, one may feel a camaraderie that is not at all what a big city is, but it probably is close to resembling the communities of believers of Paul’s day. There are few feelings so sweet as friends and acquaintances who share your faith and your joy in the Lord Jesus Christ. Would you like to join us? Christian communities are not hard to find.

 

By Sandy Day

November 19, 2023

COLOSSIANS: BUILDING YOUR LIFE UPON HIM

November 05, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

There has never been a more important time in history for Christians to stand for their faith, to know what they believe, to live following God’s word, and to share the gospel of Christ with unbelievers. However, to have the right to share the gospel means building relationships with those who need hope and salvation. We must not be part of their sinful lifestyles but must show we care about them. We have a hope for a future that we can share with them and must love them even when they are unlovely. None of that is easy, especially as we see evidence that believers are coming under attack on every side, but we must keep our eyes fixed on the goal. This was how Paul had to live nearly every day of his life—and how we may need to, as well.

Focal Passage: Colossians 2

The definition of everything:

· Read Col. 2:1-5. Who was Paul particularly concerned for? What was the main reason for his concern? What did he pray for, for the believers of Colossae, Laodicea, and “those who have not seen my face”?

· Why was he concerned that their hearts would be encouraged? In today’s churches, if Spirit-filled pastors lead the church, do you think their hearts are encouraged when they see their flock living godly lives?

· How can a body of believers be knit together in love? How can joy have an impact here? What can members of local bodies of Bible believers do to see their individual churches be knit together with others, extending to counties, states, and countries? What are the non-negotiables that one must believe to make this happen?

· What did Paul mean that he wanted believers to attain to all the riches available in the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ? If they are living in Christ, will they grow?

The Christian’s response:

· Read vv. 6-7. If you are a Christian, what will be evident in your life? What did Paul mean, “walk in Him”? If you have no real desire to study your Bible or pray, what will happen to your “root” system, which should be going deeper each year with knowledge of God? Why do large trees with shallow root systems blow over during ice storms or when their height becomes heavier than the depth of their roots?

· How can we be built up in Him? Why is it necessary? How do you become established in your faith?

Don’t get sidetracked:

· Read vv. 8-15. Why are people so easily deceived about their faith in and the doctrine of Jesus Christ? Last week, in chapter 1:15-18, what were some of the attributes Paul laid out for us about Jesus? What are some other facts which you know of Jesus’ deity? Now, Paul is again warning the church to be so rooted in Christ that no man can deceive them. In vv. 10 & 11, what does Paul say about their salvation? Does that apply to us?

· What did we receive at the moment of salvation? What is meant by “circumcision made without hands”? Read Deut. 30:6. Does it seem by this passage that Moses understood that man’s heart could be created new by God? What does baptism exemplify?

· In vv. 13-15, what happened on the cross that affects our relationship to God? If you study this passage, does it seem as though we have the resurrection power to choose not to sin, but the war between the flesh and the spirit often trips us up? When will we be totally glorified?

For we have been set free:

· Read Col. 2:16-23. Just as Paul warns us not to be deceived by false doctrines, what is the difference in his warning in this passage? How many religions do you know of that add a second book to the Bible, or a separate list of rules that one must follow?

· If we have been saved from our sins, by grace alone, why do we still choose to sin? Read John 5:14, 8:10-11, and 1 John 2:1,3-4. What do these verses have in common? Salvation and a new life should give us a desire to live a life full of joy, and a desire to choose God’s way at all times. Is it possible to love God so much that we do not sin?

Applications: 1) Don’t miss the promise of tomorrow by being distracted by today (vs 3); 2) Don’t let the joy of following Christ be clouded by the task of following rules (vs 17); 3) Don’t miss the hope of tomorrow for the temptations of today (vs 18-19)

Close:

For many of us, the amazing truth that God loves us, gave His only Son to be the payment for our sin debt so that we can be with Him for eternity, is a big deal that has no equal! Yet many of us feel unworthy and think He must not realize how badly we have sinned, and we lose the joy we should have. Wrong. He not only knows every sin we have ever committed but also every thought we have ever had—and He knew it all before He saved us! In other words, you can’t do anything that He doesn’t already know you have done, are doing, or will do. He wrote the book of our faith, and in Hebrews, promises to finish our salvation. He will bring us to heaven.

Martin Luther was a monk in the 1500’s who felt himself so unworthy that he put his body through horrible tortures, trying to earn the salvation that Jesus freely offered him. He climbed up hundreds of steps on his knees, as well as many other painful actions, nearly driving himself crazy. Finally, while he was reading Hab. 2:4, he saw the truth: “the just shall live by faith.” God opened his heart to receive that truth: Martin Luther was unworthy to receive the gift of salvation, but God gave it to him freely, not to be paid for by torturous actions. He was a new man, and lived his life completely sold out to Christ, telling others what God had done for him. This is the responsibility of all of us today: to tell our story to the world. It might not be as dramatic as Martin Luther’s, but it is still the miracle of a life which was blood-bought upon a cross.

Sandy Day

November 05, 2023

PHILIPPIANS: THE RIVER OF CONTENTMENT

October 22, 2023

Charles Billingsley

 

There are some things you cannot put a price tag on—and peace and contentment in your life are two of them. They may come at a cost, but nothing can substitute for their presence. There is only one place you will ever get true peace: it comes from the Father of peace, when you make Him your Savior. Nothing or no-one else will ever be able to fill that spiritual void in your heart. True contentment comes when you learn that NOT having more or being better than everyone you meet is fine—don’t make discontent your reality. Learning to be satisfied with yourself as God made you, with what He has given you, with the ministry God has called you to, and not envying those to whom God has given more, are all keys to contentment!!

Focal Passage: Philippians 4.

The Rock of Location: Contentment is not determined by where you are.

• Read Gen. 2:8-9, 21-24. What did Adam and Eve lack in the Garden of Eden—were they in Paradise? Why did they want more? Did they find contentment?
• Read Acts 16:22, 24-30. What happened to Paul and Silas? In verse 23, how many stripes would they have received? How did they respond once they were in prison? What was the final result from their witness? Were they content?
• What was the difference between the two sets of people, and their reactions to where they were? Have you let your house, job, location or state determine your attitude?

The Rock of Stuff: Contentment is not determined by what you have.

• Last week we quoted Rockefeller who said “enough” was “a little bit more.” That gap never closes. Can you be honest enough to tell an area where you fight this pressure?
• Read II Sam. 12:1-4. Had David been content with his seven wives and innumerable concubines? Read 11:1. What was David’s main problem? (Why do we never hear of any of the blame being also placed on Bathsheba, “sunbathing” in the obvious view of the palace?) Why was David vulnerable in an area where he already had more than enough?
• Read Mark 12:41-44. What was remarkable about what this widow had done? How would she feed herself the next day? Was she content, whether she had food or not?
• Was either David or the widow content with what they had? Was the widow fretting because she was now broke? What would you have done in either circumstance? Read Prov. 30:7-9. What did Solomon write? How can this be our motto?

Rock of Comparison: Contentment is not determined by what you do.

• Read I Sam. 1:4-7. Describe the situation between Hannah and Peninnah. Was having a child in the control of either Hannah or Elkanah? What was their only hope? Read Gen. 29:16-17. Which of Laban’s daughters do we prefer, just from reading the passage?
• Read Luke 10:38-42. Are you a Mary or a Martha? What could Martha have done so that she, too, could have time learning from Jesus? Why is it we who are like Martha think there is only one way? What could Mary have done differently? How could this have been reconciled to the benefit of both? Were either happy, feeling the ire of the other?

CONTENTMENT IS A LEARNED BEHAVIOR:

• Read Phil. 4:11 and II Cor. 11:24-28. Did Paul have any control over most of his attacks? What choices were available to Paul so far as his reactions?
• Is contentment an internal reaction to external circumstances? If so, how do we identify those situations so that we can “learn contentment in those circumstances”? (Quote from Joni E. Tada).

CONTENTMENT HAS A SECRET FORMULA:

• GRATITUDE: Read Phil. 4:6. Is gratitude a natural behavior or a learned action? If it is learned, is it ever too late to start? How can you discipline yourself to be thankful for God’s blessings, acts of kindness from others, etc.? Will it eventually show a change in your life?
• What is one of the first steps for developing an attitude of gratitude?
• JOY: Read verse 4. What is joy? Paul mentions being joyful sixteen times in this letter, therefore, he considers it to be an important part of his life. “Rejoice” is in the NKJV 238 times—so God also desires us to be full of joy. When do we feel joy?
• How can we obtain it, and then keep it? If you went to sleep counting your blessings, rather than concentrating on how to solve your problems, would you sleep better?
• PEACE: Read vv. 6-9. What is peace? In verse 7, how is peace described? In verse 9, what is the attribute of God mentioned? How do we get peace? How do we keep it?
• Is there any peace that is available to us except through Christ Jesus? Why? Does the world bring you peace? Read verse 13, and verses 19-20. God’s word never lies.

Close:

Paul’s inspired writing on peace and contentment in this chapter gives us an unqualified diagram for our own life. In verse 1, Paul sends his love to these people who are so dear to him. You can hear the peace and joy in his writing as he “speaks” to them. In verses 2-3, he implores two women who are at odds to make peace and be content with each other. In verses 4-9, he tells the believers in the Philippian church how to have peace and contentment in their own lives as they live daily with the Holy Spirit indwelling them. He gives a list of good things to meditate on throughout their days, which will also bring gratitude, peace and contentment. Finally, he writes a passage telling of his own joy and gratitude for being able to serve them and the Lord Jesus, despite trials and attacks. Paul does not harbor bitterness that he spends his life traveling, has no wife or children, is not looked up to as he had been in the days when he was one of the Pharisees—he counts himself blessed that he can suffer for Christ.

Look at Paul’s life! It is filled with days of hunger, pain, and so much more. But the joy, peace, and lifetime of blessings from God make it all worthwhile. Can we say that?

 

Sandy Day

October 22, 2023

PHILIPPIANS: THE MIND OF CHRIST

October 08, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Do you sincerely wish to pursue the mind of Christ as you go about your daily living? The sad truth is, not everyone does. But for those who do, God, through Paul, has more than enough guidelines and instructions for how to live as He would have you live, going beyond simply telling you to love God and love people. Sometimes, especially for new believers, there’s a gap between telling you to “love,” and telling you how to go about it. Last week, Dr. Costin showed us how Paul guided the Philippian church to a closer walk with God. Today, we will look at the second chapter of Philippians, focused on seeking the mind of Christ each and every day.

Focal Passage: Philippians 2.

Living in Unity:

· Read Phil. 2:1-2. As Paul continues his thought in chapter two, what is his main concern for the people of Philippi? What qualities does he ask them to exhibit?

What is the difference between the Spirit of fellowship from normal fellowship?

· How does it sound as though these believers were not being swayed by the Judaizers?

· Is it natural for us to put others first, or do we prefer to look out for our own interests? What does the world tell us to do? What are some things from the world that we find ourselves enjoying?

· What was the Greek work for “mind” in this passage? What are some ways in which we can develop a mind centered on being like Jesus Christ?

Living with Humility:

· Read vv. 3-5. What is one of the worst sins we are to avoid? How does selfish ambition and conceit have a basis in pride? Instead, what is the first thing you should think when you interact with someone else? What are some ways you can look out for the interest of others? Read James 4:6. Why is God opposed to proud people? What was Satan’s sin?

· Read vv. 6-8. Explain this passage. Why would Jesus—one-third of the Trinity—God in the flesh, come from heaven in order to “come in the likeness of men”? What did He give up? What man-like qualities did He take on Himself in order to live among us?

· Did He seek the status of the Father? How did He make Himself a slave to God’s will?

· What was God’s response to Jesus’ incarnation? What did Christ empty Himself of?

· What are some things we—or our children—do to seek a reputation? Is it worldly?

Living Well:

· Read vv. 12-13. What does it mean to work out your salvation with fear and trembling?

· How does God work in you “both to desire and to carry out His good pleasure”? What does this mean? Do you submit to this in your own life? Are you humbled by this?

· How often do you find yourself grumbling and complaining? How can you change this behavior? Why do you think it is so important to you to be right when you refute a “fact” someone has stated? How long can you go without complaining or arguing?

· Does God command or suggest that you stop this behavior? How can you stop it? What does he want us to be instead?

Living in Community:

· Read vv. 17-30. How did Paul feel about the team members who ministered with him? Do you have Christian friends who come along side you as you minister to the Lord? How much time do you spend thanking God for them and praying for their protection?

· What does it mean to remain faithful in service to God? Read Gal. 6:9. How would Christ have us carry on? What will be our reward? Read Jas. 1:12. Is this also a promise?

· Is “remaining faithful” the calling which God has placed upon all our lives?

· Read Rev. 1-11. This week, the adult studies are wrapping up Ephesians; as we ourselves carry out excellent works of righteousness, like the Philippian church—and the Ephesian church—what was the admonition God had for the church at Ephesus in Rev.? How can we be faithful to see that, as we are busy about the Father’s work, we must carefully examine our lives to make certain we have not lost that first love we had for Christ?

 

Close:

Last week Dr. Costin talked about the philosophy of ministry; this week we are looking at the practice of ministry. Can you really be useful to Christ if you have no real passion for serving Him as someone who is “sold out” to Him? Perhaps you can be useful in that you can fulfil a purpose, but without a passion for serving Him, you are not truly in love with Him. That is not an erotic love, but a love such as a young child has for a parent who loves and cares for them. List His attributes: He is faithful to you, loving, supplying all your needs (not wants), working things out for your good when you mess up, He’s holy, generous… the list is too long to write out. Do you really care, or do you take Him for granted—or worse, are you lukewarm? Do you want Him for what He can do for you, or what He has done for you? Don’t let the world mold you to its way of thinking—take your thoughts captive and spend time with Him daily, praying, serving Him for His glory, putting other people before yourself, and think of yourself last. You’ll soon develop the mind of Christ, and you will love Him the way you should.

 

By Sandy Day

October 08, 2023

GALATIANS: JESUS FIRST

September 24, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

In a few places in the Book of Galatians, Paul sounds like a frustrated parent whose child, into whose life he has lavishly poured the riches and gospel of Jesus Christ, turns away from what he has been taught. Certainly there are parents who remain calm at all times—even in the most chaotic of them—but they are few are far between. Like the parent, though, Paul, after chastising the Galatians for following false teachers who demand they return to the Law of Moses, becomes loving and instructive again, telling them how to walk in order to please God the Father with their lives. May we apply the instructions to walk holy with our God the same way Paul has again reiterated to the Galatians: if you live in the Spirit, you walk in the Spirit.

Focal Passage: Galatians 6

Be a help to others:

• Read Gal. 6:1-6. Perhaps Paul is thinking of those who have turned aside to follow the false teacher in verse 1: who, then, should help restore them to the fellowship of the church? Would this apply to any believer who falls into sin? What is your attitude as you come along side of them? Why is your attitude so important?
• Read 1 Cor. 10:12. In our Galatians passage, Paul says be careful, because you might also be tempted; why are these two verses so true?
• We all know Christians whose life seems so heavy with burdens and crises. What are we to do for them? What are some of the reasons that might keep us from helping? Why might they reject help?
• Do you recall the difference between the words for “load and burden”? Why should we help one another with heavy loads, but let them bear their “light” loads themselves?

Focus on the right things:

• Read vv 7-10. What does it mean to mock God? Can someone give an example? Whatever seed or plant you put into the ground, that is what you’ll get back. How is that the same with our actions in life, with the law of “sowing and reaping”? Think of a corn seed: how much “return” on the single kernel will we reap? Is life like that?
• When we learn from God’s word, why are we to share it with others? How does that carry out the Great Commission? How is that “mentoring” another believer? If you are walking in the Spirit, asking God for direction, won’t He always lead you to someone who knows less that you? Are you afraid to mentor?
• How is this illustrated in what Paul is trying to remind the Galatians, that if you walk in the Spirit, you will not fulfill the lusts of the flesh—and vice versa? If the Galatians had not turned aside to false doctrine, would they have been able to correctly mentor new Christians? Were the ones who remained faithful to God still able to be used?
• How are we to treat all people? Is any group a priority? Do we love on people who are dressed correctly, or have money, or can befriend us—or do we choose those who need us?

As always, it’s all about Jesus:

• Read vv. 11-15. What, in particular, were these false teachers trying to get the new believers to do? In Gen. 17:10-12, was this given for any other reason than to set apart the Jews as God’s people? Later, was circumcision part of the Ten Commandments?
• After Jesus came, what saved people? Read these Scriptures aloud, and zero in on the part that refers how to NOT be saved: John 1:13; Titus 3:4-6; Eph. 2:8-9. In Titus, why does He list works of righteousness since God wants us to be righteous? If we came to Jesus on our own, could we not boast about it? If you want to brag about something, what should it be? What should it not be?

As always, God is always on your side:

• Read Gal. 6:16-18. Who is Paul bestowing “grace and mercy” on? In today’s world, is there anyone who hates your relationship with Christ so much that they are willing to try to destroy your reputation or testimony? How can you love them?
• When the world looks at you, and what you represent, what do they see? What do you post on Facebook, X, Meta, or more? Is it kind, gentle, loving—or bitter? How do they judge you after you walk away?
• What is the theme of the Book of Galatians? How does he want his “children” to act, after pouring Christ into them? Does he expect them to stand firm? Are you standing firm?

Close:

It is hard to imagine Paul’s lifestyle, since we have no real idea what it was like except for his account in 2 Corinthians 11:23b-28. How many of us would put up with the oppression he was always undergoing bodily—stripes, beatings, nearly drowning, etc.—and adding to that his heartbreaking statement in this passage, “my deep concern for all the churches.”  In another place, Paul says he would gladly give his own salvation if it meant saving his Jewish brothers. Can you say that? Probably, none of us could. He says “Follow my example.” Can we say that? How can we get to the place where we do not take offense easily, or answer anger with anger? Will we ever recognize that it is Satan and his demons that we are fighting, not the person who has just uttered words that hurt us? If we live moment by moment in the Spirit, we will be able to walk in Him. Try it.

 

By Sandy Day

September 24, 2023

GALATIANS: AN ALL-IMPORTANT QUESTION

September 10, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

Last week as we studied chapters one and two of Galatians, we saw Paul upbraiding the Galatian church for “quickly” deserting the faith he had preached to them concerning Jesus Christ—and which they had believed. Now they have been “bewitched” (led astray) by false teachers who want them to go back to living under the Mosaic Law. Chapter three opens with Paul’s pain and outrage at their defection from Christ, when they had so clearly understood the gospel message of grace. He asks several serious questions, trying to get them to reason logically through their shallow thinking, which had resulted in their falling away from their faith.

Focal Passage: Galatians 3, 4.

An All-Important Question:

• Read Gal. 3:1-5. Why is Paul trying to get them to use reasonable logic as to why they accepted Jesus Christ, and why they are now embracing the “works” salvation that would entangle them again? In other words, why have they exchanged truth for a lie?
• Who were the ones actually misleading them? When Paul had preached Jesus, when had they received the Holy Spirit? Having understood that salvation was by grace alone, through Jesus Christ alone, why were they now convinced they must add works to it?
• Paul reasoned with them: when God supplied the Holy Spirit and worked miracles among them, did He do it by works of the Law or through faith?
• What about you? Did you believe the gospel message, but later thought your old sins might keep you from being saved, so you added teaching, taking meals, or trying to do acts of righteousness to your faith? Read Titus 3:5. Is this what Paul is saying?

The Answer from History:                                                                                                                

Abraham

• Read Gal. 3:6-9. The Jews loved to proclaim Abraham was their father; who does Paul say are the true children of Abraham? What did Abraham’s promise involve?
• Read Gen. 15:4-6. What was the Abrahamic Covenant? When God walked alone through the halves of the animals (the contractual sign) what did that indicate to Abraham?
• How many children did God tell Abraham he would have? Who also are included as his children? What was Abraham doing when God made this promise? Could it be annulled?

Moses

• Read vv. 10-14. If you decide to live based on the Mosaic Law, how will you be judged? Has anyone been able to keep the Law? (Reference Deut. 27, esp. 11ff).
• How could something God commanded be a curse? (Because no one can keep it).

Christ

• Read vv. 15-18. When God was talking to Abraham and spoke of his Seed, who was God speaking of? Can anyone achieve righteousness through the law? Can a promise by God be broken? Who are the only Two who can change it?
• Read Gal. 3:19. What purpose did the law serve, if no one could keep it? When was it going to end? What changed when Jesus came?
• What is another word for “works”? Read Titus 3:4-7. Do works save you? What does spiritual fruit prove?
• Read Mat. 5:17. What was Jesus’ relationship to the Law? Read Rom. 13:10 and Jas. 2:8!

The Explanation for the Free                                                                                                                    

A Dad Taking Care of His Children

• Read Gal. 4:1-7. What is Paul’s point in this passage? As unbelievers, are we like the children in a home, with elemental needs provided, but having no freedom until reaching an age of blessings (salvation)?
• What are some of the blessings we inherit when we reach “adulthood” (go to Eph. 1)

A Dad Trying to Control His Children

• Read Gal. 4:8-10. Prior to salvation what are some examples of idols that people worship? However, after salvation, what were the believers in Galatia doing?
• 13:1-23. Which soil are these people? Read Luke 15:11-24. How is this analogous? Read 2 Cor. 3:4-6. Why is going back under the law denying the sufficiency of Christ and His sacrifice? Read verse Gal. 4:17. Who are these false teachers really working for?

The illustration of our Choice

• Read vv. 21-31. Why was Ishmael not the child of the promise? Would anyone expect Abraham and Sarah to have a child? Is anything too hard for God? How is the sacrifice of Jesus the only way the Law could be fulfilled? Read Eph. 2:8-9.

Close:

There are few things more sad than meeting a friend or someone in your family whom you love and knowing they have chosen to live life on their terms, believing themselves to be on the way to heaven based on their good works. Those of us who love Jesus, who desire to trust Him with every part of our lives, know that any “good” we do is because our roots are in Him, and the fruit (works) that is produced is only because His Spirit lives in us. Others can achieve civil good—giving money for humanitarian projects, taking a meal to a grieving family, etc.—but those “acts of righteousness” count as nothing if you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior. He alone is the way to heaven. Acts 4:12 tells us, “…for there is no name under heaven, given among men, whereby we can be saved.” Meditate on that verse this week and examine your heart. Are you saved through Jesus, or trusting your works for reaching heaven?

 

By Sandy Day

September 10, 2023

REVELATION: GOD’S TIMELINE

August 27, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Surely if you have been a believer very long, you’ve gone through a series of mental questions as to why the OT saints chose to sin! Why did Adam and Eve eat of the forbidden fruit? Why did they choose to sin? Why did Noah’s sons choose to sin when they got out of the ark? Why did David choose to sin with Bathsheba? It all comes down to “Free Will,” doesn’t it? God did not make us to be robots, worshiping Him because—like AI—we cannot do otherwise; He created us with a free will that chooses to worship Him because we love Him. One day, when the earth has fulfilled its purpose, we will live in a new heaven and a new earth where there is no more pain, no more sin, no more death. Will you choose to love God and go there? It’s your choice.

Focal Passage: Genesis-Revelation.

Creation and the Fall of Man:

• In Gen. 1:2, how did God describe creation? What are some of the ways you would describe the world at that time? Was man created for life or for death? What was the curse on Adam and Eve in Gen. 3:22-24? Did anyone force any of the saints to sin?
• Read Gen. 6:5-8. By this time, what had the people of the world chosen to worship? Was it possible some people could have chosen to be saved during the years it took Noah to build the ark? Read Rev. 22:17. Even after the Tribulation, until the moment it is all over, will God still offer grace and say “Come”? Read Gen. 11:4. After the flood, what did the people continue to choose in their free will? What did they want the tower for?
• Read Gen. 12:2-3. Finally, God chose a man to begin a nation; who was it, and why? What was the result over the next three hundred years? How long did Israel stay in Egypt as slaves? Who led them out of Egypt? What was Moses like?
• Over the next thousand years, what was Israel’s history like? What were they expecting?

The Messiah and Daniel’s Prophecy:

• Besides Gen. 3, who were two men who first spoke of a Messiah coming? Who else prophesied of Him? What were people looking for in the coming Messiah?
• Read Dan. 9:24-27. In this passage, how long was a “week”? After the 62 weeks when “Messiah was cut off,” what is happening now, until the final week when the Tribulation will occur? Can you summarize the seven years of the Great Tribulation?
• What are some signs that will probably come to pass that would help us realize the end is drawing near? (Why is Babylon being rebuilt? Why is the Euphrates drying up? Will the Temple need to be rebuilt?)

The Life of the Messiah:

• What were some of the prophecies about the Messiah, and how did Jesus fulfill them? What was spectacular about His three years of ministry? What are some promises He made?
• What impacted you the most about His crucifixion? What were some of the most significant accounts given about His resurrection? What command did Jesus give us?
• Read Acts 1:9-11. After Jesus ascended back to His heavenly Father, what “age” was ushered in? Does the Bible give any hint how long the church age will last?

The Rapture, The Judgment Seat, and The Revelation of Jesus

• Read 1 Thes. 4:17. What will happen in the Rapture? This will be an extremely silent event; what do people say they are “listening for”? How will Jesus actually come?
• Read 1 Cor. 5:10. What is the judgment of the saints for? Read 1 Cor. 3:11-15 and James 2:14-17. What is another word for “works”? Read Titus 3:4-6. Do works save you? What does fruit prove?
• What is the theme of the Book of Revelation? Just as Christ wanted us to know of His coming to earth as Messiah, what is His desire for the Revelations He gave John?

The Tribulation

• What are some of the signs that will signify that the tribulation has begun? How will people recognize the antichrist? Later, who else comes alongside him to form an “unholy trinity”? How long will he allow Jerusalem to have peace?
• (Rev. 6-8). How many seals of judgment were opened? Who was the only one who was worthy to open them? About what percent of the population was killed? (Rev. 8-11). How many trumpet judgments were there? How many more people were killed?
• (Rev. 12-14). What does the unholy trinity do at this time? What happens to the two witnesses? How does antichrist renege on his promise to Israel?

The Great Tribulation

• (Rev. 15-16). What are some events of the last three and a half years? What happens to those who do not take the mark of the beast? What are some of the 7 bowl judgments?
• (Rev. 17-19). What happens when the Tribulation ends? What city falls? What war is fought? What will the Euphrates be like? What will happen to Satan and his armies?

The Second Coming

• Read Rev. 1:7. How will Jesus return? Who will face complete defeat? What follows this scene in Rev. 19:7-9a? What happens to Satan during this Thousand years? To read of Satan’s end, go to Ezek. 28:16-19. The Great White Throne Judgment follows. What is special about that? What four books are opened?

Close:

There are only two things to ask: if the Rapture occurs today, will you be left behind? If

you are left behind, will you be following the world during the last 7 years, or evangelizing?

 

By Sandy Day

August 27, 2023

REVELATION: A NEW PLACE… BETTER THAN EVER

August 13, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

Prior to Jesus Christ being crucified, resurrected, and returning to Heaven, He told His disciples that “in My Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you, and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also!” (John 14:1-4). What a promise! We believe His words, and today, in Chapter 21 of Revelation, we read of the reality of the place that He has prepared. It is a glorious, incredible place, made ready for us. As Dr. Ed Hindson said when he opened his eyes from a short coma hours before he died, “UBELIEVABLE!” “What, Papa?” the family asked. “Heaven!” he answered. “It’s unbelievable!” But as another local pastor often says, “It is a prepared place—for a prepared people!” Have you prepared for it?

Focal Passage: Revelation 21.

The current heavens and earth destroyed, and a new heaven and earth is found

• Read Revelation 21:1-3. What did we learn in Chap. 20 about the location of the 1,000 year reign of Christ? Since it will be on this earth, why do we worry about global warming, fires, etc. in the world? Since Christ will be here in Person—the one Who rules the Creation—will He make certain that it lasts for the 1,000 years?
• When the new heaven and new earth comes down out of heaven, what is no longer present? What does the word “new” mean? Who speaks from heaven? In the new earth and heaven, where will God dwell? How is this like the first two chapters of Genesis?
• How long will we live in this new heaven and earth? How long will God dwell with us?

This “new place” is greater than we could ever imagine

• Read verses 4-7. John tells us of other things that will be missing from our new home; what are they? What does God mean, that some things have “passed away”?
• In this passage, God makes nine statements, some of which are promises. Discuss each one: in verse 5, why can we believe what He says? What was God referring to by “It is done!” What are we to overcome? What will life be like as a child of God? What was life like for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden?

This place is only for the ones who believe

• Read verse 8. Is the list of sins indicating that those are the people who will not be allowed to reside in the new earth and heaven with God? What does God mean by this list? What is the only sin that will keep a person out of heaven?
• What have we read about the lake of fire and brimstone previously? Now, who has been put in it for all of eternity? Why does He say, “this is the second death”? Who will go there forever and forever? Read Rev. 20:15. Whose names will not be written in the Book of Life? How can you be assured your name will be there? Don’t “hope” your name is there—take care of this most important decision right now–KNOW your name is written in it!

So, what is the place really like?

• Read verses 9-21. Now who comes to John? What is he going to show him? What does he mean that he will show John “the Bride of Christ”? Where did he carry him?
• What did John see coming down out of heaven? We are reminded in the early judgments of the trouble John had describing items that he had never seen (for instance, things like tanks, weapons of mass destruction, assault weapons, etc.) Does John seem to have any hesitation in describing the New Jerusalem?

Jesus at the center of it all

• Read verses 22-27. What are some things not in the new city of Jerusalem? Why is there no temple? Why is there no sun or moon? Does it seem weird to think of never needing darkness, to get a good night’s sleep?
• What are the nations and the kings of the earth going to be bringing into the city?
• Will there be any sin in the New Jerusalem? Why will the new creation be like God’s first design of how life was to be in the Garden of Eden?

Close

As we close this 21^st chapter of Revelation, we are left with hundreds of questions, aren’t we? Inevitably, the questions are both things relative to the millennium as well as to the new heaven and the new earth. Most are not addressed in Scripture, nor are they such that can be answered by anything except speculation—which causes foolish quarrels. For instance, in the millennium, will our technology still exist? Can you imagine a millennium where everyone is on an iPhone? The saints will be like angels, neither able to marry and bear children, nor be given in marriage; however, there seems to be people born during this time. In the New Jerusalem, will we live in a city? Our brains could go on and on.

The most important thing for us to remember is that God is going to make all things new. New as in “never before imagined.” New as in something you’ve never seen before. And “eye has not seen nor has ear heard nor has the mind imagined the things that God has prepared for those who love Him”(1 Cor. 2:9). One thing is sure: you will want to be there, rather than in the lake of fire and brimstone with wicked, evil people. But, as said in the opening, there is only one way to get there: you must have prepared yourself, through Jesus Christ. Remember, God made only one way—but He did not have to make any way at all and He would still have been righteous. He gave us that way because of His great love. Surrender your life and your heart to Him today, and your name will be written in the Book of Life.

By Sandy Day

August 13, 2023

REVELATION 17-18: BABYLON AND THE BEAST

July 30, 2023

Matt Willmington

 

We are entering the final chapters of the Book of Revelation, finishing the last bowl judgment, which ends the Great Tribulation. It seems almost impossible to understand how the earth’s population during the Tribulation suffers from the seal, trumpet, and bowl judgments, yet they continue to blaspheme God. Pain such as most of us have never known will afflict these people for three and a half years, yet they continue their evil trajectory. Today, in Chapter 17, religious Babylon is destroyed, while chapter 18 destroys the economic and political Babylon. By God’s grace, people up to the bowl judgments still have the opportunity to turn to Jesus for salvation, reject taking the mark of the Beast, and receive eternal life. Then the final judgment will bring destruction upon all who are left on the earth. In one last victorious cry, God calls His children to get out before it’s too late (18:4).

Focal Passage: Revelation 17-18.

RELIGIOUS BABYLON                                                                                                                                   

Who is the Harlot?

• Read Revelation 17:1-5. In verse 3 and 18, who is the woman? Why was Babylon called a harlot? Why does it seem as though Babylon will be an actual city, having been rebuilt at some point? In verses 2-3, who were her faithful supporters?
• Read 18:5-8. What were some of her sins? How quickly will her destruction come (18: 8, 10, 17, 19)? Read Dan. 5:30-31. How quickly did ancient Babylon fall (not the one that may/will be rebuilt)? Who becomes distraught over her judgment? What is so sickening about 18:13? How bad is human trafficking now? Can it get worse? Who is behind it?
• Reference 18:9-19. Why were the men upset? What were their wares?
• In verse 20, who are the believers who will be rejoicing when Babylon is destroyed?
• Read 17:6 and 18:24. What groups of people have been killed by those ruling Babylon?

Who is the beast?

• Read 17:3. What is the woman sitting on? Read 17:1, 3, and 9. Why are there three different visions of what she sits on, and what do they represent? Read 17:15, 8-9, and (perhaps) possibly Rome, city of 7 Hills).
• Who is the beast? Read Rev. 13:1. Is this the same beast in 17:3?
• Read verse 8. What does the angel mean when he says the beast was, is not, and yet is? Read 13:3-4. Could this be the answer to “was, is not, and is”? Read 17:9-11. What are the seven heads? If these “hills” (mountains) are seven kings with kingdoms, how can five “fall”? Which was (and still is) in existence? Who was the seventh? How can he also be the eighth?
• Read vv. 12-14. What are the ten horns? Have they appeared on the scene yet (as far as we know)? How long will they be in power? Who will they be working with? What is their goal? Read vv. 16-17. What else will the ten horns (kings) do? Read 12c with 17c; why will they align themselves with the Beast?

 

ECONOMIC AND POLITICAL BABYLON                                                                                                                                                       

What is it?

• Read 18:10b. We established in the first point that Babylon is a city dedicated to gross idolatrous worship. In chapter 18, we will find it is more than that! What is it?
• Reference 18:9-19 once more. What theme is carried out through this lengthy passage? The ruling power of Babylon desired to create a materialistic, covetous, society. What evidence do we have today that this will be easy to accomplish? Read vv. 15 and 19. What were the merchants concerned about? Can you give examples of this going on today?
• Read 18:2. What will it become? What will eventually happen? Read Isa. 13:21-22, 34:11-17. Is this the way ancient Babylon has looked for the past centuries? What happened when Saddam Hussein was alive? Did he achieve rebuilding Babylon as he planned?
• What will the political arena of the antichrist look like the second three and a half years? Who did we learn would be in the “unholy” trinity?
• Read 17:13. Who will give help to the beast? Who will they make war with? What is so comforting about 17:14?

Close:

The end of the Great Tribulation is frightening to read, but the reality will be so much worse than anything we can imagine. We have to remember that John was trying to describe in so many places things that he had never seen. How would you describe an army tank, for instance, or a helicopter, if they were totally unknown to you? However, these chapters today are not that difficult to understand, other than who, when, or where. The bottom line is, Babylon is spoken of as an actual city in seven places in Revelation—not a symbol, although it is possible it will be built on a site other than the original Babylon. These chapters imply it will be rebuilt and become the “hub” of the world. It will be so sinful and full of wickedness that the millions of people left on the earth will be devastated when it is destroyed—but they won’t turn to God! Yet until that time, there is hope. Hope for those who are left behind when the church has been removed from the earth, that people can still be saved. Hope for those who are in the queue to get the mark of the Beast and can choose to step away from the line—then most likely become a martyr. But to die in Jesus is a win. To live for Satan and the Beast is death for eternity. Choose wisely.

By Sandy Day

July 30, 2023

REVELATION 13: TWO BEASTS RISE UP; STILL, WE HAVE HOPE!

July 09, 2023

Dr. Troy Temple

Today we are heading into intense parts in the Book of Revelation—God’s revealing of not just future events alone, but the victorious completion of the plan of God that has been in place before the foundation of the world. From eternity past, God existed, still exists, and will always exist. As the visions from Jesus to John are studied, we see God was, is, and always will be in control of every event that occurs. Rev. 1:3 promises a blessing to the person who reads and/or hears the words of this book and responds by obeying. It is a book that has much symbolism, but the happenings it foretells will come to pass, and no one will be able to stop them.

Focal Passage: Revelation 13.

THE FIRST BEAST                                                                                                                                        

 The Agenda of the First Beast                                                                                                                   

He will establish and control evil leaders and governments.

• Read Revelation 13:1-2. What is rising out of the sea? He is one creature, but how many heads? How many horns? What is on each horn? What is written on each head?
• Who is he? What will he look like? What are his feet like? What is his mouth like?
• Read Dan. 7:3-8. How many heads are on the four beasts Daniel saw in his vision? How many horns are on the fourth beast? What are the similarities in the beasts’ animal likenesses to those John saw? What is the commonality of these four beasts?
• Did the beast have power when he came out of the sea? Where does he get it? What else does he get from the dragon? From last week, who is the dragon?

The worship of world leaders:

• Read Rev. 13:3, 12b, 14b. What happens to the beast that John sees? What does it usually mean if one is “mortally” wounded? What happens to the wound? In verse 14b, how does John say the wound occurred?
• Read verse 4 and Isa. 14:12-15. What has Satan always wanted? Why will everyone worship him during the Tribulation? Why do they worship the beast as well?
• Read 2 Cor. 11:14. What are characteristics that Satan will try to use to imitate Jesus that will ingratiate him with world leaders? How could he resurrect someone dead?
• Read Micah 7:18. Is anyone like our God? What will the world cry about the beast?

The temporary war of evil leaders:

• Read Rev. 13:5-6. How long will the peaceful reign of Antichrist last? How will he get the authority? How will he control people by his words? What does he do after that?
• Read verse 7. Who “grants” Satan the authority to let Antichrist have a war campaign?

Who will die in this war? Will there be people who are saved during this time?

The deception of evil leaders:

• Read verses 8-10. Who is going to be leading this war? What does God mean in verse 9?
• Why is it so vital for people to stand against Satan and the Antichrist? What option will there be for those who won’t take the mark of the beast?

THE SECOND BEAST                                                                                                                                       

Seven Characteristics of the Second Beast                                                                                              

He is a deceiver—a lamb, even friendly.             

• Read vs 11. This beast rises out of the ground. Who is he trying to imitate? What does John mean, “he spoke like a dragon”?

He speaks the words of Satan.

• Read Matt. 7:15 and Matt. 24:24. This False Prophet has an agenda as well; what is it? What has been Satan’s main goal since the Garden of Eden?

He is a false worship leader.

• Read verse 12. We must keep in mind the first beast is the Antichrist; who is this second beast, the false prophet, imitating in the Trinity? What are the main functions of the Holy Spirit? Will He seal believers to God (1 Jn. 3:24)? With Satan desiring to be “like God,” what kind of trinity do these three have (Satan, Antichrist, False Prophet)?
• What are the main functions of the false prophet? Who will he point men to worship? Will he mark unbelievers for Antichrist?

He uses miracles to amaze and deceive.

• Read 13:13-14. Who were other “magicians” who used great signs, deceiving people of Egypt, in the OT? What OT king made an image for the people to bow down to (Dan. 2)? Is Satan doing anything new or unusual for him? Read Matt. 24:5, 11.
• How can believers be aware of what is true and what is false during the Tribulation?
• Read 1 Kings 18:28. Can someone retell the situation when Elijah called down fire onto the altar of Baal? How does the False Prophet do the signs? Who grants him the right?
• Why do people tend to believe that which they see? With technology growing by the day, could there be ways in which technological illusions could be used by Antichrist?

He will kill those who reject worshiping the first beast.

• Read verse 15. Go back to re-read verses 7 and 10. What must be decided by those who will be saved during this time? How is this like Dan 3:1, 6? Does it seem as though Satan continues to re-do activities that have worked for him in the past?

He marks all antichrist worshipers as his.

• Read verse 16-17. What will be the outcome of those who are saved during that time? What would it be like to see one’s child starving to death? Is death the worst that could happen to people?

He will, ultimately, lead all people to worship a mere man.

• Read verse 18. No one knows what is meant by the name of Antichrist being 666. There are learned theologians on all sides, but no one knows. There will definitely be a price to pay for not taking the mark.
• In the end we must remember the words foretold by Isaiah: “Those who see you [Satan] will gaze at you, and consider you, saying: Is this the man who made the earth tremble, who shook kingdoms, who made the world as a wilderness and destroyed its cities…”!!

BUT CHRIST IS OUR HOPE! He will never die! He will never fail! He will never reject His people! He will always answer! He will keep every promise!

 

By Sandy Day

July 09, 2023

REVELATION 8-11: THE SEVEN TRUMPETS: CHAOS UNDER CONTROL

June 25, 2023

Charles Billingsley

How is the Revelation study coming along for you—are you learning things you did not know? Are you feeling a total sense of security that God is very conscientious in reminding us that all the turmoil, furor, and devastation will only happen because He is allowing it to? Today we begin with the seventh seal (we looked at the first six last week), which contains the seven trumpet judgments.

Focal Passage: Revelation 8:1-11:19

THE FIRST FOUR TRUMPETS:                                                                                                                             

The First Trumpet—Weather

• Read Revelation 8:1. What is so special about a half-an-hour’s silence in heaven? Turn back to chapters 4, 5 and 6; what are some of the things going on in the Throne Room? Why would there be silence after the jubilant sounds of praise and worship? Could this be the calm before the chaos? What other disturbances have a quiet before the storm?
• Read Rev. 8:2-6. In verses 2 and 3, who did the angels receive the trumpets and the incense from? What did those who held the seven trumpets do (vs 6)? Read verse 7. What happened when the angel blew his trumpet? Think of the smoke over us from the Canadian wildfires this past week; what would these plagues do to life on the earth?

The Second Trumpet—Water

• Read verses 8-9. What is like “a mountain burning with fire”? What happened?
• How many people died? What about people drinking, as well as the smell?

The Third Trumpet—Wormwood

• Read verses 10-11. What falls from heaven? Where did it fall? What happened?
• How many people died? What is particular to the plant called “Wormwood”? Is this it?

The Fourth Trumpet—Worlds

• Read verse 12. What happens on the earth? What would be the result of the catastrophe of the celestial world being darkened? How would that affect our temperatures? Was this demonic activity?
• Read Isa. 13:9-10 and Joel 2:10-11. By the time of Rev. 8:12, God has declared this at least three times! Have any of God’s promises not come to pass? Do you believe this?

The “Woes” of the last three Trumpets:

 The Fifth Trumpet—Wicked Warriors—The First Woe

• Read Rev. 8:13. What seems to be the demeanor of the angel who is announcing the last three trumpets?
• Read Rev. 9:1-2a. Who is this star that has fallen from heaven to earth? How did he get the key to the bottomless pit? Who gave him the key? What came out of the pit?
• Read verses 2b-3. Why is this darkening of the sun and air not the same as in 8:12? Besides smoke, what else came out of the pit? How did they get their power?
• Read verses 4-6. What were their restrictions? Were they allowed to kill men? What were they allowed to do to men? How long? Who gave these commandments?
• Who was their king? Is this Satan?

The Sixth Trumpet—The Wreckage—The Second Woe

• Read 9:13-21. When the sixth angel sounded his trumpet, what was he told to do? Were the angels who were bound at the Euphrates good or bad? What had they been prepared for? (Verse 18) How many did they kill? By what means? Where did the fire, smoke and brimstone come from?
• (Verse 20) How did the rest of mankind react to the slaughter and killing?

The Word

• Read Rev. 10:1-4. What does John see in verses 1 and 2? When the angel cried out, rather than an echo, what is heard?
• Did John understand what the seven thunders said? Why did he not write it down?
• Read verses 5-7. What are the most important words in these verses?
• Read verse 11. What was John told in this verse? How has this prophecy been fulfilled?

Jonathan will cover The Witnesses, and the Seventh Trumpet next week.

Take aways:                                                                                                                                                              

God is, always has been, and always will be in complete control.                                                 

God loves you so much that He wants to keep you out of the tribulation.                                                                             Once you know Him—dive in to His word and truly get to know Him.                                                                                                           

When you do get to know Him, you will want to worship Him!

What about you?

We are studying real events that are in a real time frame from a God who exists and is in complete control of everything detail of life! He has been from everlasting and will be forever. We don’t get it. Our minds are finite, with time limits and delays, blessings and curses, happiness and trials. But the prophecies of Revelation are coming about quickly. In the past one hundred years, the Euphrates River has decreased by 60%: when it is dry, life here will be over. Even with all the death and destruction, people just like you—if you’re unsaved—are not going to repent. They will be angry at God. Don’t be stubborn like them. Turn to God while you can!

 

By Sandy Day

June 25, 2023

 

 

 

REVELATION 2-3: THE SEVEN CHURCHES

June 11, 2023

Matt Willmington

 

Today we continue the second sermon in our series on the Book of Revelation. God wanted to reveal through revelation and visions what will be occurring in the “last days.” Why did He warn seven churches in Asia Minor of their performance? What are some nuggets we can glean from Revelation? These and other questions will be answered today by Matt Willmington as he opens chapters two and three of this amazing but somewhat confusing book!

Focal Passage: Revelation 1-3, 22:18-19.

The background of the Book of Revelation:

• Read Revelation 1:9. Where was John when he received the revelation? Why does he say he was on this island? What did he hear the loud voice saying? Who was it?
• Read verse 12-13. What did the seven lampstands represent? Who was in the center of them? In verse 16, what were the stars in His right hand?
• Read vv. 17-19. What does Jesus tell John He wants him to do?

The church at Ephesus—the Loveless church

• Read 2:1-7. Where was Jesus standing? (Verses 2-3, 6). Why did He praise this church? Were these all good things? How does Eph. 2:8-9 explain what this church was doing?
• Read vv. 4-5. What was the problem in the church? What did Jesus mean, that they had left their first love? How would you describe a first love? Why is that so important? What was going to be their punishment if they did not repent? What would be their reward for repenting?
• What about you? Are you more in love with Jesus today than when you got saved? Are you so busy about the Father’s business that you have no time for prayer or Bible study?

The church at Smyrna—the Persecuted church

• Read 2:8-11. How is Jesus described? In verse 9, what does He praise these Christians for? Were they poor in the sight of God? In verse 10, what is going to happen to them? What would be the result of the prediction? What would their reward be?
• What about you? If you knew you would face tribulation and possible death, would you run the other way, like Jonah? What would you do? Would you keep your eye on the prize?

The church at Pergamum—the Compromising church

• Read 2:12-17. What does the two-edged sword stand for? In vs. 13, why does He praise them? In vv. 14-15, what were their sins? Were all of them involved in sinful activities? Read Rom. 1:32. By not putting these sinners out, was the church approving them?
• What was their fate if they were unrepentant? What reward would the saved receive?
• What about you? Are you speaking out against world agendas that God hates? Are you taking a stand to say they are sin and violate God’s will? Why is it scary to stand alone?

The church at Thyatira—the Corrupt church

• Read vv. 18-29. How did Jesus appear? In vs. 19, what did He praise them for? In vv. 20-23, were their sins vile? How is this again described in Romans 1:32, above?
• Were all the Thyatira Christians involved? What does He ask of those who are standing against Satan? In vs. 26-28, what is their reward going to be?
• What about you? Are you aware of sins within your church that are affecting many of the body, but you are keeping quiet? Worse, are you participating in sins that are evil?

The church at Sardis—the Dead church

• Read 3:1-6. How is Jesus portrayed here? In vv. 1, 4, who is the praise for? What is the problem of this church in general? What will be their punishment if they do not repent? In vs. 3, how does a thief come? In vs. 5, what will be the reward of the faithful ones?
• What about you? Are you holding to a steady course within the church or are you worshiping from a distance? Are your works perfect? Are your sins confessed daily?

The church at Philadelphia—the Faithful church

• Read 3:7-13. How is Jesus described? Why is this church complimented by Jesus? What does He want them to do? What will be the rewards of those who overcome?
• What about you? Is there anything in your life that would keep Jesus from calling you faithful? If your family were grading you, would you come up lacking or faithful?

The church at Laodicea—the Lukewarm church

• Read 3:14-22. Do you see Jesus as He has been described in all these letters? What is so daunting about praise that has been given to the previous churches, but nothing here? Why does Jesus condemn them? What is their biggest problem? What will be their reward if they repent?
• In verse 19, what is the amazing invitation that is being given to the Laodiceans? Does He, in fact, love them? How can you tell? How can this letter offer hope today?
• What about you? When your coffee gets cool or your Coke gets warm, do you still want to drink them? Do you appear lukewarm to Jesus? Does He love you enough to give you another chance? Do you believe in Jesus with all your heart, knowing He has the rest of your life in His hands?

Close:

The intense judgment in the letters to the Seven Churches underscores the vital need we all have in order to make certain our lives line up with the commands of God. Our salvation is not to be taken lightly, making the sacrifice of Jesus Christ something that can be picked up or laid down at our will. We all need to examine our lives, comparing it to these letters, repenting where it is due, and being faithful to those things to which He has called us. Tomorrow, as we all know, may be too late.

 

By Sandy Day

June 11, 2023

 

 

YOU ASKED FOR IT: WHAT IS WORSHIP?

May 28, 2023

Charles Billingsley

“Father, You are wonderful, You are lovely, You are holy, and You are worthy. There are no words to adequately describe Your beauty, Your glory, Your wonder. Lord, as best we know how, with our finite abilities and our small minds, we try to describe who You are and what you are, and yet it’s impossible. And so, Lord, in the presence of Your holiness today, we worship You as best we know how. In spite of all the distractions and all the stuff going on in our lives, we set aside these moments for You and You alone. Our prayer is that You would help us to stay alert and focused as we open Your word and see what You have to say about this most important subject in the world, for all eternity, the reason all creation exists—the subject of worship. Open our minds, our hearts, our ears, so that we may learn from You. Amen” This opening prayer by Pastor Charles is the epitome of the essence of worship. Please join us.

Focal passages: Deut. 6:4-5; Mark 12:30; Colossians 1:15-17, 3:2; Philippians 4:6-8; Proverbs 4:23, 23:7; James 3:10-12.

What Is Worship

• Read Deut. 6:4-5 and Mark 12:30. What is the simplest definition of worship? Read Col. 1:15-17. What are reasons from this passage to worship God? Where is our expression of thanksgiving centered when we are worshiping?
• What is our entire mind focused on when we are truly worshiping? Why should worship not be confined to the music part of a Sunday morning service? Read 1 Cor. 10:31. Why is Sunday morning not what God has in mind when He speaks of worship?
• Read Phil. 4:6-8. What does it mean to have a lifestyle of worship? Where does worship begin? How can we use the Sunday morning service to springboard off of for our entire week, worshiping Him every day?
• In verse 8, what should be the focus of our thought life? Explain why sin cannot get a foothold when our minds are centered on Christ?
• Read Eph. 5:18-19. Why is it good to praise God “in your mind” while you are going about your daily life? What does this mean: “The mind is a powerful thing. Our thoughts determine our actions.”?

So, what are we supposed to think about?

• Read Phil. 4:8 again. What are some examples of things that happen in our lives that are praiseworthy? How does one “meditate” on things that are on this list? How long do you normally dwell on something that is great, before going on to something else?
• What are things that you would applaud God for doing for you? When He has done something wondrous for you, do you set aside days of praise and thanksgiving for the answer, in relation to the number of days you prayed about a certain need?

What are some roadblocks that can hinder a lifestyle of worship?

• Read Prov. 4:23. What are some worldly distractions that occur daily that interrupt our mental or physical worship?
• What are some things in our homes (besides distractions) that can hinder our worship? How can we learn to keep these to a minimum?
• Read James 3:10-12. What is the effect profanity or other sins of the tongue have on worship? How does our language affect our testimony? How does God feel about our words?

Why should I live a lifestyle of worship?

• Read Psalm 3. Why does God deserve worship? Why does the world hate Him so much? What are the four things that man will worship if he does not worship God?
• Augustine said, “There is a God-shaped vacuum in every heart that only Christ can fill.” Why did he say this?
• What are reasons you can list as to why God deserves your worship? Read Romans 1:18-21. What happens to those who know in their souls there is a God, but decide not to honor or worship Him? Eventually, what does God do? Do you find it hard to conceive that so few really want to love and serve Him, since He is so good to us?

Close:

What are some of the responses of your mind or your heart when you stand at the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, or view part of the Grand Canyon, or feel the sand on the beach as you watch the waves roaring toward land, or watch the sunrise or sunset over the horizon of the ocean? What happens when you see a beautiful snowfall, or fields of flowers in a myriad of riotous color, or a double rainbow?

Has it crossed your mind to wonder at the number of songs that have been written about the beauty of God, or of Jesus, and you think, how do they know He is beautiful? Suddenly, as you watch the sky with hundreds of shades of blue, pink, and purple, with white clouds and a golden sun, your breath is taken away by the beauty, and you grasp the fact that it takes One whose beauty is beyond imagination to create such amazing loveliness here on earth.

Why do we worship Him? Because He made us like Himself, to love, to have emotion, to work, to desire holiness, and so much more. And He provided a way for us to live with Him forever. We worship Him for giving His Son so that we don’t have to die in our sins and wretchedness. We don’t have to go to Hell where Satan will be, and where life will go on forever without anything except horror. He didn’t have to make that way for us. He could have left us in our sins, and in Hell, for eternity.

Worship Him? Why would we not? He is everything that satisfies our soul’s desire.

By Sandy Day

May 28 2023

YOU ASKED FOR IT: THE SPIRITUAL BATTLE

May 14, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Everyday there are billions of battles being fought around the world. For the most part, no one recognizes them, or gives a thought to the persons whose lives are being lost, maimed, or made no longer useful. In our current series, “You Asked For It”, our congregation wanted to know if there is, indeed, a spiritual battle being waged over the lives of people, and if so, what can be done about it. As Pastor Jonathan informs us today, yes, the spiritual war between Satan and Christ-followers is being fought continually. And yes, we can actually win if we know what it looks like and what we can do to defeat it—but only through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Focal Passages: Psa. 55:22, 119:11; Prov. 18:1; Isa. 43:2-3a; John 8:44; Eph. 4:32; 2 Tim. 1:7; 1 Pet. 5:8, 4-11; 1 Jn. 4:4, 18.

Is Spiritual Warfare real?

· Read John 8:44. Who is Jesus speaking to, and why did He say they belonged to their father, the devil?

· What does Jesus say about Satan? Who does he murder? Why is there no truth in him? When the unsaved lie, whose desires are they following? We hear lies all day long in the world; where are some places they come from? How can those lies control us?

· Read 1 Pet. 5:8. What do roaring lions want to do? Why does Peter liken Satan to a lion? What will Satan do to the Christian if we are not “alert and sober-minded”?

· Read Eph. 6:11-12. When we think we are having strife with someone, who is actually behind the person, inciting them to discord? What is his ultimate goal?

What does Spiritual Warfare look like?

· Read Eph. 6:16. What are some of the darts he throws at us to make us accept his lies? Are fear, temptation, stress, discouragement and so much more, Satan’s darts?

· Why does Satan want us to feel life is not worth living? Read 1 Kings 19:3-4. Why did Elijah run for his life after having the victory of killing 450 prophets of Baal in 1 Ki. 18?

· How can Satan use power, beauty, money, status, our job, etc., to ruin our lives?

So, how do I defeat Satan?

· Read Eph. 6:10-11. What is the only way we can defeat Satan and his demons? When we feel we are all alone, are we? Why not? What must we stand on that is trustworthy?

· Read 2 Tim. 1:7 and 1 Jn. 4:8. How can we let go of fear? Read Psa. 119:11. How can we stand strong against temptation? Read Eph. 4:32. How does unforgiveness give Satan power over us? Read Psa. 55:22 and Isa. 43:2-3a. How can we be encouraged?

· Read Pro. 18:1. Why is it so important to be part of a church body? What are some of the benefits? Why do so many desire to stay away from church? Are their reasons valid?

· Read 1 John 4:4. Where does our victory lie? Read Eph. 6:12-18. Why is it so important to understand Spiritual Warfare is real, and take this passage seriously?

· Read 1 Thess. 5:8. Why do soldiers not go to battle in shorts and tee shirts? Why must we learn this lesson of battling with spiritual darkness?

Can we actually win?

· Read 1 Pet. 5:4-11. Why is the answer to the question, (can we win?), a resounding YES? Is it because of who we are, or our strength, or our power? Who is our answer?

· Why (verse 10) do we have to “suffer a little while”? Will sin ever be finished in our world? When will Satan be eternally finished?

Close:

Probably you are in one of two major camps: you are either very aware that Satan desires every moment to take you down (he has assigned this job to his demons, called “familiar spirits,” and they know everything about you); or, you have heard of Satan but you have the attitude of “out of sight, out of mind,” or worse, “if I don’t bother him, he won’t bother me.” Perhaps you are in a third group, the unsaved, so he doesn’t battle with you since he owns you. He makes you laugh at Christians and detest God.

Unfortunately, we play into his hands when we leave him alone. He wants us to ignore him. It is only the ones who strive to follow Christ, read the word, pray, and love who cause him to attack. It’s the “hot” ones (Rev. 3:7-12) that he hates and spends his time deciding how to keep from being effective. But we can stand the fire, because “when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,” for God will be with you. Remember, you will only be involved in Spiritual Warfare if you are living a spiritual lifestyle.

By Sandy Day

May 14, 2023

YOU ASKED FOR IT: FINDING GOD’S WILL

April 30, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Recently our church body was asked what events or situations in today’s world most concerned them. The answers became our current series, “You Asked For It.” The second highest concern, addressed today, was “How do I know God’s Will for my life?” As we hear the answer by Pastor Jonathan, we recognize that God’s Will for us is in the Bible, in very plain language. In order to find it for yourself, you must love and trust God enough that you desire, above all things, to know Him as He is revealed in Scripture, obey Him as He has commanded us, and hunger and thirst to live righteously. Please join us as we learn how to seek to be holy, as He is holy.

Focal Passages: Psalm 37:1-7, 119:9-16, Phil. 2:12-13, Pro. 13:20, Rom. 12:2, Jas. 1:22-25.

How do you find God’s Will for your life?

• Read Heb. 11:6. To seek the Will of God for your life, it must be done with a heart of faith; what is meant by that phrase? Read Matt. 5:6. What is the promise for the one who truly desires to know God’s Will?
• Where do you find everything He has revealed that He wants you to do? If you devote two minutes each day to reading the Bible, will you be “hungering” or “thirsting”? What do those words indicate? How can you discipline yourself to read the Bible more?
• In today’s world, has God’s Will for mankind changed from when He had men write the Old Testament? What are some of the reasons we can feel so disconnected from Him?

Read Psa. 37:1-2. What does agitated mean, and what does envy mean? Why would those feelings keep us from knowing His Will for us? Read Rom. 12:2. How do we stop trying to be like this world? How do you renew your mind? How will that transform us?

• What will you be able to do when your mind is renewed? How can we understand His Will for each of us in particular?

How can I tell the difference between God’s Will and my own desires?

• Read Psa. 37:4-5. Search your heart: Is there anything in your life you love more than you love God? (If you think “yes,” that is called idolatry.) If so, what are some steps you can take to give Him first place in your life? How do you delight yourself in the Lord? Will He give you all that you desire, or will your desires change to be in line with Him?
• What/who is the only thing that can stop the carrying out of God’s perfect plan in your life? What can you do to get your life back on track, loving Him first and foremost?

How long will it take to find God’s Will?

• Read Psa. 37:7a. Where, in this verse, do you think the problem (to our hearing God) lies? Do you think most people know when they’re hearing the voice of God?
• How does He usually speak? How carefully do you listen for His voice when you pray?
• Read verse 7b. When you pray, God starts working. If you “wait patiently” for Him, how long are you willing to wait for His answer before trying to fix your problem yourself?

So how do I start? How do I get on the right path

• Read Phil. 2:12-13. When you wish to begin to put God first in your life, who is the One doing the work? Read Psa. 119:105. Where do you find His help?
• Read Psa. 119:9-16. How does this passage reflect the message of the verse in Matt. 5:6 earlier? How much time do you spend in the Bible each day, in comparison to time on social media, watching a movie, or browsing the web?
• Read Pro. 13:20. What do your friends most care about? Which category would you place each in: a fool or a wise person? Did/do you always choose your friends wisely?
• As you put today’s tools to use, is there any reason you can’t immediately begin to make the changes in your life that will prepare you to be ready to follow God’s Will when He shows it to you? Where can you start?

Close:

Have you ever done a search for the number of times Scripture mentions “this is God’s Will,” or “God’s perfect Will”? He—the best of Fathers—does not leave us floundering but has laid out clearly and perfectly in Scripture His Will for our lives.

God desires us to be holy, as He is holy, “always abounding in the work of love,” “doing everything” as if we are doing it for Him. Being obedient is not a dreadful list of do’s and don’ts, but privileged opportunities to serve Him in any capacity.

Here are a few of His revealed Wills for us:

He desires us to be set apart from the world, not following their actions. 1 Thes. 4:3: For this is the Will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality.

He desires us to trust Him so completely that we are able to thank Him in all situations. 1 Thes. 5:18: In everything give thanks; for this is the Will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

He desires that our actions are so honorable that people can find nothing to say against us. 1 Pet. 2:15: For this is the Will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men…

These are three “Wills” that God wants for you that you can put into practice as you begin your journey to finding His perfect will for your own life. After you have gotten your life on track with His revealed Wills, your heart will be open to understanding His unique Will for you. Start today—don’t put it off. Your eternal future may depend on it.

By Sandy Day

April 30, 2023

EASTER: FROM DEATH UNTO LIFE

April 09, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Everyone seems to have a champion, don’t they? Although we know as Christians that our own Champion is Jesus Christ, the truth is that most people regard actors/actresses, political figures, or even people within the hierarchy of an organization as their champions. It may even be an older sibling. The definite probability is that a hero will eventually fall, and with that fall comes a feeling to the one who has held him/her in high esteem that no-one can be trusted. But that’s not so with Jesus. He’s everything—even when the people of His day thought He was a loser and, hoped, dead and buried, that would be the end of the story. Little did they realize that over two thousand years later, His life would still be celebrated, His word trusted, His person worshiped. If it seems He has let you down, it’s because you don’t see Him correctly, for He’s completely trustworthy. He is not a Loser!

Focal Passage: John 19:28-30, 20:24-31.

Before His death

· Read John 19:28-30. From the moment in the Garden when Jesus had been kissed by Judas, what were some of the actions that were taken against Him? Have you ever assumed that He had somehow called on His Godhead in order to endure the pain? He did not! How do we know He felt the pain?

· Even on the Cross, Jesus was completely aware of events, although the pain was excruciating. What are some evidences of this statement?

· When Jesus said “It is finished,” what was He thinking of? Why do you know that it was not the hours before His death that He was referring to?

After His death

· Read John 19:31-37. Why did John report that Jesus did not remain on the Cross during the Sabbath, and why include the issue of His bones not being broken?

· Read verses 38-42. Though Joseph of Arimathea was afraid of the Jews, why was he willing to come forward to offer his tomb for Jesus? What could they do to Joseph? Why were so many pounds of spices taken to anoint His body?

· Why did the men not believe the ladies who saw Him, and knew He was alive?

After His resurrection

· What were some of the occurrences that happened when the ladies and the disciples began heading for (and entering) the tomb? Would we have had these same surreal feelings as well?

· Read 1 Corinthians 15:3-8. How many people saw Jesus after His resurrection? How could they have doubted that it was truly Him? If your parent or sibling died, then appeared alive, how would you react? Would you know them?

· Read John 20:24-29. When the rest of the disciples were in the room with the risen Lord, without Thomas, what was his reaction once he had been told that he had missed seeing Jesus? Why did Jesus give him another chance when He appeared again in the same place? What encouragement does that give us to keep on keeping on, when we have made a mistake or sinned?

The never-ending truth of Easter is that Christians serve a Risen Lord and Savior, not someone in a grave. The Old Testament was filled with prophecies that He fulfilled, foretelling His birth, death, and resurrection. It all happened. It also includes that He has promised to return—which could be any moment. Are you ready? It’s not your good deeds, nor your sweet spirit, your love for others, or your kind heart. The only question that will matter is, “What did you do with Jesus Christ?” Read the Bible. Find the passages that give you trouble and seek the answers until you find them. He is waiting—and loving—you.

Close:

Many years ago, during the destruction of the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, and the flight in Pennsylvania, over and over you could hear the cry, “How could someone hate this much [enough to kill thousands of people]?” It seemed impossible to comprehend the amount of anger and hatred required to do so much killing.

In the same way, the death of Jesus Christ brought—on a smaller scale—the same type of feeling: how could His own people and religious leaders hate someone so much that they were willing to watch, thrilled, as Jesus was beaten beyond recognition, until His body could almost no longer live, be nailed to a cross, and finally die? Yet for what reasons besides hate and jealousy? It defies the sensibilities of most of us.

And yet—He knew before the night began that the Cross was the reason He came. From the foundation of the world, and all because of love. He loved us so much that He was willing to go, beaten within an inch of His life, to the Cross, then be buried in a borrowed tomb. Can you imagine what it must have felt like, three days later, for His heart to begin beating again and to walk out of the tomb? He’s alive today. Ask any Christian who loves Him with a saving love: they’ll say, “I know because ‘He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own; and the joy we share, as we tarry there, no other will ever know.’ *

By Sandy Day

April 09, 2023

*Miles, C. Austin, “In the Garden,” 1912.

CONFLICT REVOLUTION: I ONCE WAS BLIND BUT NOW I SEE

March 26, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

When Jesus came to earth, His mission was to bring a New Covenant, not only for His chosen people—Israel—but also all nations. Forgiveness of sins for the repentant believer and eternal life now became available to all people. However, religious leaders did not want a “New” Covenant, but persisted in the Law given to Moses. As He taught the masses, healing diseases, raising the dead, and many other signs prophesied in the Bible, conflict arose. For the three years of His active ministry, He was constantly in conflict as we will see in today’s sermon. Join our service as Pastor Jonathan teaches how conflict revolution can be conflict resolution.

Focal Passage: John 9:1-38.

1. Conflict with sin

· Read John 9:1-2. Let’s be honest—when a friend or family member has a bad problem, how many of us have questioned if there might be sin involved? Read verse 3. Why do our minds rarely wonder if the situation has occurred in order to show God’s glory? Why are we so quick to often think the worst of people?

· What are some conflicts you can think of in the Bible? In each example, who was at fault? Will there always be conflict between believers and non-believers? Who is behind this (ultimately)?

· When did the first sin occur? What are some instances in Scripture when Satan was in conflict with Jesus? How long will this continue? What is his end?

2. Conflict with friends

· Read John 9:4-6. How long had this man been blind? Why did Jesus notice him? We know little else about this man until the end of the story; how did he know enough about Jesus to obey His instructions to go to the Pool of Siloam?

· The friends and neighbors avoided admitting this man was their friend. Why would they do that? Read verses 8-10. Do you think fear may have been at the root of their disbelief? Read verses 11-12. Why were his “friends” so adamant that the blind man’s sight had been restored by a means other than Jesus?

· How is this analogous for those today who will not admit to being a Christ-follower to their “friends” as they might get shunned? Read John 12:42-43. How does this apply to us today?

· Read Proverbs 12:26. If you have friends who do not confess Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, who will influence the other more? What should you do?

3. Conflict with leaders

· Read John 9:13-17. What were the religious leaders supposed to do for the common people? Why were they held in such high esteem in Jesus’ day? Is this still the case today? Read 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. Discuss these verses.

· What was their main problem? What were some of the conflicts they had with Jesus? Read Acts 5:33-40. Why were they not able to tolerate Him, as they had some of the others? Why were they not thrilled with the result of the blind man being able to see? Why did they persist in denying that God was visiting them?

4. Conflict with family

· Read John 9:18-21? Why does it sound as though the parents were “throwing their son under the bus”? If this was your (older) child, what would your feelings be? Read verse 22. How does being thrown out of a church compare with the miracle Jesus had just performed on their son?

· How many times a day does Jesus do amazing things for us, and we let them pass by? How can we teach ourselves to be grateful for the bounty with which He blesses us? Why do we not always give testimony of His abundant power?

5. Revolution in Christ

· Read verses 35-38. Why did Jesus have to be the One to seek the man He had healed? As soon as Jesus spoke, the man realized who Jesus was. What does he now do? How has his response changed since earlier verses?

· There are people in our church who are receiving major healing, major miracles, or major aid from Jesus every day, yet why are we not aware of it? Is it because we feel perhaps “the doctors must have missed something” –or some other excuse, rather than exuberant worship as a congregation?

Application:

1) Even today, people still refuse to believe the miraculous grace and mercy found in Christ. Celebrate it anyway!

2) Do not allow the fear of man to interfere with our faith in God.

3) Continue to worship Him even when it is clear you may worship alone.

Close:

There is only one solution for being the man in this miraculous healing. His testimony became condensed in the words, “though I was blind, now I see!” To meet the Lord Jesus and experience His work in your life will give you a testimony you want to share with everyone, whether they believe you or not. Glorifying God for His goodness to you will cause you to love Him more and more. Worship Him! Glorify Him! By Sandy Day March 26, 2023

CONFLICT REVOLUTION: CLEANING THE HOUSE

March 12, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

If you are someone who perhaps is OCD, if anything in your house is out of place, it drives you nuts until it’s corrected. Others adhere to the old saying “My house is clean enough to be healthy, but dirty enough to be happy!” Another group doesn’t notice unkempt conditions until the moment they can’t move safely from room to room. But what about your personal house? Not the physical building you inhabit, but your body? Are you constantly aware that, as a believer, you are indwelt by the Holy Spirit and your body is the temple of God? Do you perform sacrifices with it, such as praise, thankfulness, obedience, and even presenting your body as a living sacrifice daily? Do you clean it every day, making sure no sin or uncleanness gets a toe-hold? Join Pastor Jonathan as he begins a new series on Conflict Revolution.

Focal Passage: John 2:13-25.

Jesus cares about His house

· Read John 2:13-16. From the time of the temple King Solomon built, how have places of worship for God been revered? Depending on your generation, what are some of the standards you may recall for the church because it was considered to be a place of “holiness,” much more so than a school or store?

· What are some of the “do’s and don’ts” that you were raised with concerning the church? What were some things that were unique to a church building, in order to set it apart? Ultimately, does it matter where people meet in order to worship Jesus Christ?

· Read 1 Cor. 6:19-20. How can we apply these same principles for our body that we do to our church or home? What are some steps we can take to clean our temple? Read 1 John 2:16. How do we keep these evils away from our temple? Read Psa. 24:3-5. Why is this a good way to do a self-exam? Can you list other passages that help us check our hearts and actions often?

The purpose of His house is to point to His work

· Read John 2:17-22. What was the purpose of the inner Jewish court of the original temple? How did the reason for meeting with God point people to Christ?

· When God’s presence resided in the Holy of Holies, would the High Priests have permitted unclean worship or activities to take place there? As churches began to spring up around the world, what was the original focus at that time? Why has their honor and sanctity faded over the years? Do people see God at work today as much as in the past?

· Read Psa. 73: 25-26 and 1 Cor. 10:31. What was the original reason God created man? What did God say when Adam and Eve were created (Gen. 1:31)? Read Psa. 29:2. The “chief end” of man is to give God glory. What are some ways in which you do that daily?

· Scroll through John 6 and list some of the miracles performed by Jesus. Read John 6:30. Why would the people ask for a sign, considering what they had already witnessed? Why were they not convinced of His deity, as witnessed by the fulfilment of prophecies?

Believing in His work is different than believing in Him

· Read James 2:19 and Matt. 7: 21-23. What point was being made about belief in Jesus as a person? Why do people still see Him only as a “good” man who lived and taught? Read 1 John 5:20 and John 1:14. Is there any doubt that Jesus is the Son of God?

· Read Matt. 11:2-6 and Isaiah 35:5-6a. Why were the religious leaders intent on not looking at the works Jesus was doing, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies?

Application: 1) Recognize the importance of the House of God 2) Dig deeper into the present work of Jesus in your life and in the world 3) Fixing your eyes on Jesus as Savior of the world will keep you from being fixated on “working your way to Heaven”

Close:

Often we hear friends or acquaintances say “I have no idea how people make it without God!” There probably is no statement that illuminates our love-relationship with God more than this, knowing that whatever comes our way, God already has our back. As mentioned last week, no amount of knowledge of the Bible can possibly make up for the personal relationship that your prayer time creates between God and you—His beloved child.

However, He was not what the people expected. Their minds were so made up with their own ideas of what He would be like that they failed to recognize Him when He came—these men who had “degrees” after their names, filled with knowledge of the Scriptures yet unable to discern that the works He was doing validated that He was the Son of God. Whether He was teaching in the synagogue or driving moneychangers out of the temple, He was acting with unparalleled authority.

Is He what you expected? When He answers a prayer differently than you wish, do you rail at Him? Want to give up? Scream that you hate Him? And yet, how much time do you take to look at the lives of others, realizing you could have it so very much worse. You’ll offer God the ultimate gift of being a living sacrifice if you trust Him each and every day, especially those days when things are so bad, when hurts are so painful, and when tragedy is waiting at the corner. Be that revolutionary who doesn’t have to have things go your way every time you pray, but continually give Him the sacrifice of Praise, the sacrifice of Thanksgiving, the sacrifice of Obedience, and the sacrifice of a Broken Heart because of your sin. Give Him the love and trust He deserves from you.

By Sandy Day March 12, 2023

COMPASS: KEYS TO LIVING THE GOLDEN RULE

February 26, 2023

Pastor Charles Billingsley

“Don’t judge!” This verse, Matthew 7:1, is being referred to as the new John 3:16 in the world as so many seek an “anything goes” lifestyle with no condemnation. But what was Jesus saying? What did He mean? Today we continue our series from the Sermon on the Mount, as we listen to Jesus expound to His listeners the way God desires His children to live in the new Kingdom that was being established on earth. This most powerful of sermons touched on the two important relationships, man and God and man to man—with the Bible as our moral compass.

Focal Passage: Matthew 7:1-12.

Don’t Judge

· Don’t judge unfairly: Read Matt. 7:1-2. What are some of the areas in which we tend to judge people? Often, what do we really know about the person whom we are judging (in our mind, heart or with our mouth)? What is so wrong about judging them without knowing what problems they face, or their history?

· Don’t judge superficially: Read John 7:24. What did Jesus mean? How can you train yourself to “look beneath the surface”? What are some factors of the history or upbringing that could play a large role in someone’s actions, opening them up to criticism? Why is it possible that our hypocritical attitude is not biblically based but a personal preference?

· Don’t judge hypocritically: Read Matt. 7:3-5. Why do we think that criticizing someone else’s sins will make our own look so much better? What does this sinful thought process show us about our own heart? What reasons might there be that church folk are among the greatest offenders of judging unfairly, superficially, or hypocritically?

Learn to discern the Dogs and Hogs

· Read Matt. 7:6. Who is Jesus speaking to? What is His point in this verse? If He was giving a blanket statement of not judging, how would we know who those are who hate the truth?

· Read Matt. 13:58, and 10:11-14, 16. Did Jesus believe the disciples had enough wisdom to judge with righteous judgment? What does this statement mean: “Use wisdom before treating holy things as holy but don’t treat unholy things as holy”?

Instead of pointing, start praying

· Being critical of other people may be something “everyone is doing” but is it still a sin in God’s eyes? How can we develop the habit of redirecting our thoughts into righteous discernment of someone’s actions?

· Read Matt. 7:7. How are we to pray? Read Romans 12:12, Eph. 6:18, Phil. 4:6, 1 Thess. 5:17. How can you train yourself to have a deeper and more meaningful prayer life?

Be active, not passive

· Read Matt. 7:12. What is the difference between being “reactive,” and being “proactive”? How can you be proactive with this verse? How can you discipline yourself to look at someone with the objective “What can I do for them,” rather than waiting to see what they can do for you?

Always err on the side of Grace

· Why should a believer administer Grace whenever possible to people?

· When is the last time you received grace, when you perhaps deserved justice? Read James 2:13. Which would you rather God gave you—mercy (grace) or justice? Don’t forget to give grace to others during your day (like drivers, cashiers, waitresses, etc.)!

Close:

Generations ago, children who walked to school were taught to “Stop! Look! Listen!” as they crossed roads where a car might be coming unseen. This is excellent advice for training our heart to be less of a hypocrite. Criticizing other people, especially those in the church who are our brothers and sisters, is a harsh judgment fostered by our own insecurities. What are some reasons we judge the motives, intentions, or even—God help us!—their salvation, based on our own moral perception of their lifestyle? There may be several reasons, but none are pretty.

One reason might be the insecurity in our own hearts. Are we trying to appear godlier than those we criticize, who (we think) are showing their appearance in a certain area to be not on a par with our own? Do we remember God is looking at the heart? Another reason might be that we want to be noticed by the hierarchy of the church: perhaps we hope the pastor himself—next in line after God!—will think we are so much more than we are. Well, our critical attitude will soon eradicate that! And another reason is that possibly, just possibly, our criticism is valid. Maybe her dress is so very short, or you can see straight through it, or her blouse covers almost nothing or their car is a Tesla! But what do you know about their heart? In these and many more scenarios, our judgmental spirit will show that we consider ourselves to be worthy of being a judge—but be careful, for, as James tells us, these have evil motives.

What do we do? Run to God in prayer, repent quickly, and let Him clean your heart. Then go back to last week’s “Close” on the sermon study Group Time and reapply the principles of a new prayer life. Get yourself in line with God’s standards and soon you may want to meet the people you are tempted to criticize. Possibly they are placed in your life so you to get to know and love them! Now wouldn’t that be amazing?

By Sandy Day February 26, 202

COMPASS: MONEY MATTERS

February 12, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we build further upon the short topics that Jesus Christ addressed while He was preaching the lengthy lesson that has come to be known as “The Sermon on the Mount.” After teaching the people the Beatitudes, He began with subjects that needed refocusing from overt actions to heart attitudes: [you are told to] … but [God’s ideal is]. The topic of giving of one’s money is an area where the attitude of the heart matters as much as the gift, for God wants the giver to have a motive of supplying the needs of another, not to be done for self-glorification or “look what I gave” to God. A sensitive subject for some, but we keep in mind that if His words provoke irritation, there might be a rebuke that needs to be taken to the Savior for cleansing.

Focal Passages: Matthew 6:1-4, 19-34.

The Gift That Gives

· Read Matt. 6:1-4. What is Jesus admonishing against in verse 1? In Scripture, what are some other actions we are told not to do with a motive of receiving praise from men? Why is that a problem? Read Luke 18:9-14. What was the Pharisee looking for? What is the root of the problem when hoping for man’s praise?

· In verse 2, why did Jesus say “when” you do a deed? What was assumed here? What law concerning giving do you see operating here? Who owns everything you have? Why should you be rewarded at all for giving of your resources to serve those in need?

· What are some ways you could be blessed openly by giving according to God’s ideal? Read Proverbs 11:25 and 22:9. What should motivate our giving from the heart?

The Gift That Destroys

· Read Matt. 6:19-24. What are some ways in which we can store up treasures for ourselves? What are some of our treasures? Are there things in your home you feel would completely devastate you to lose to a thief? What are some?

· Do you have things in your home that you are holding until you hear of a need? What are some of those? Have you taken steps to let people know they are available?

· Can anyone honestly say they spend no time worrying about their treasures? Meanwhile, are you trying to accumulate more of the same? Have you examined your heart attitude toward these things? Why is it wrong to worry (Phil. 4:6-7)?

The Gift That Sustains

· Read Matt. 6:25-26. What is the subject Jesus deals with in this passage? Why is it a waste

of time to worry? Read Luke 12:29-31. How is this the correct heart attitude for receiving blessings from God? How can you stay passionate about sharing whatever you have whenever possible?

· Do we bear responsibility for the way someone uses our gift? Why or why not?

· Read Luke 12:42-48. Can someone paraphrase the words of Jesus? Do you examine yourself to know you are being a faithful steward of what God has given you?

· Why do we worry? What does worry achieve?

· How do we learn to trust God fully? Is it possible to get past worrying? Can you seek Him fully? Read Matt. 6:33-34. How can you do this?

Application:

· Use an open grip to hold on to what He’s blessed you with.

· Recognize the real value of your time, talents, and treasure.

· When fear grips you, let go and let God do what He does best.

Close:

Do you find the “law in your members” that there seems to be a difference between faith and trust? Often, it seems there is. We have faith that Jesus Christ came from Heaven, fully God, yet fully man, was born as a baby in a manger, grew (just as we do) to adulthood, began a public ministry, healed, taught, and fulfilled Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah. He was beaten, crucified on a cross, buried in a borrowed tomb, and on the third day He rose again to new life—all to pay the debt of our sin. He was seen by many, and after forty days ascended back to Heaven where He waits for the Father’s word to come get His children. That’s the gospel—the good news—that we believe, embrace, and devote our lives to.

Ah, but what do we do about our wayward child who’s left the church and living a sinful lifestyle; or an unsaved parent who manifests all the characteristics of a wicked person; or a bank account that must be overseen constantly …? Where is your faith? Are you trusting?

Are you praying for any or all situations that can totally unglue you? If you are, why are you still worrying? You’ve given it to God, asking Him to help you with each situation. Can you leave it with Him? Do you need assurance that He loves your family member as much as you do? Trusting is an act of the will. When the thought crosses your mind as a random arrow to undo you, stop! Tell God you are sorry—the thought was not intentional, you don’t wish to tarnish the trust you have placed in Him, and repent. Give Him back the problem. Keep doing it. Look back at your life: has He been faithful all the way? Then He will continue to be. Give Him the honor He deserves by truly trusting Him to make a way. You may not know the answer. That’s okay. He’ll still be faithful. And now apply it to those areas where you are still weak, like your money, your marriage, your work. Take one step and do what’s right. It will get easier the further you walk with Him.

 

By Sandy Day

February 12, 2023

COMPASS: WHAT SALT AND LIGHT LOOK LIKE

January 29, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

We all know that Jesus appeared on the scene in Nazareth as the child of Mary and (supposedly) her carpenter husband, Joseph. At thirty years of age, Jesus began His ministry by selecting twelve men to train as apostles while traveling around to cities and towns in Israel. The people soon flocked to hear this “new” doctrine, as taught by this Man who also healed. They were hungry to hear Him speak and listened closely as He told them what they needed to do, how they needed to act with each other, and how to become saved from their sin debt to have eternal life. Now, years later, we still need to know how to be all that Jesus desires us to be. Today, we continue our series “Compass” as we hear what Jesus said about being a disciple.

Focal Passage: Matthew 5:17-30

“Why I’ve Come”

· Read Matt. 5:17-19. What was available to the people of Jesus’ day that taught them how to please God? Where could they hear God’s Word? What was the Old Testament trying to accomplish?

· What kind of reputation did the Scribes and Pharisees, the religious leaders of Jesus’ day, have? Read Matt. 23:13,23, and 27. What was the hope for common people?

· Read Matt. 26:55. Who was the Author of the Old Testament? How important was it to Jesus? Did He have any intention of abolishing the OT for a new set of laws? Jesus came to “fulfill” the Law and Prophets: what did He mean by fulfill? How much should we know, read, and love the OT? Can you defend your answer?

“What You Should Do”

· Read Matt. 5:20. How did the common people revere the Pharisees and Scribes? How would Jesus’ words have shocked them? Why is it dangerous to hold religious leaders in high esteem, without knowing their heart?

· What are some man-made rules or laws that people assume Christians live under, in order to go to Heaven? What is that called? Read Luke 10:25-28. What did Jesus tell this lawyer? Read 1 John 2:15-17. Why is “love God, love people” the answer?

So, Let’s Do Better

A. Get rid of anger

· Read Matt. 5:21-26. What was Jesus’ point in these verses? What are some reasons why we must not allow anger to reside in our heart? Read James 1:19-20. Why does James say anger is particularly deadly?

· Read Matt. 6:12. Why is forgiveness very necessary? Read Ephesians 4: 26-27, 30-32 and Col. 3:5-10. Why are all these passages so very relevant to our daily walk? If we let anger

continue unchecked, can it become a compulsive addiction? What are some ways you can overcome feelings of anger?

B. Get rid of Lust

· Read Matt. 5:27-30. Jesus is trying to get the common people to accept what truth when it comes to sin? Read James 1:14-15. Where does the “longing” for sin begin? What has to happen for it to become full-blown sin?

· Do you have to have the sexual act for adultery to occur? Just as in the case above of anger begetting hate in one’s heart that can be as bad as murder, does the heart have the capacity to sin as if the action was carried out?

· Read 1 Cor. 6:18-20. There is conflict among younger people who think there are ways around coitus in order to avoid the term adultery, fornication, or even sin; what would you tell them if you had the opportunity?

Application

1. The Old Testament is not an outdated collection of books which have no value to today’s reader.

2. Living in fellowship with others is far better than living in conflict. If at all possible, make things right with those you’ve wronged or with those who’ve done wrong to you.

3. Be diligent in removing tempting images from your life and avoiding people who tempt you to do any wrong. Be quick to seek the forgiveness of God when you fail.

Close

Over the past years, reading the Bible through for the new year has been a focus our church has encouraged. In hoping to cultivate a discipline for setting aside time daily in which to communicate with God, it is a way to get the members to appreciate and love God’s word, with a desire to continue to read it for themselves. Time spent each day in reading His word and praying, or listening, to Him will reap benefits that will span generations. Children will always remember—and usually respect—the parent sitting quietly, reading the Bible.

The use of the word “discipline” above is quite accurate. It seems to never truly become a habit, for it can be stopped too easily. In Genesis 3:15, part of the result of Adam and Eve’s fall was the ground would be cursed because of them, and Adam “in the sweat of his face… would eat his bread” (Gen. 3:19a). While that was to be taken literally, it is not too far-fetched to believe that it can also apply to our devotions, as Jesus refers to Himself as the Bread of Life. So many things will rush in to take up our time when we try to set aside specific time for God! Suddenly Mom or Dad must be there to fix a hundred situations. Keep trying. Keep scheduling the time. Keep praying for God to help you as you desire to chase after a heart like His!

By Sandy Day January 29, 2023

COMPASS: THE PROCESS OF A DISCIPLE

January 15, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, as we are into the new year by only two weeks, we begin a new series, “Compass.” As the world around us continues to press toward agendas that are unhealthy for believers, we may find the need for a spiritual compass to keep us on the right track. Serving and following our Lord Jesus Christ without wavering is a discipline that will have eternal rewards one day. Join with us as we study Matthew 5, 6, and 7 over the next few weeks, learning how best we can be all God wants us to be in a world full of compromise.

Focal Passage: Matthew 5:1-12.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

· What do you understand someone who is “poor in spirit” is like? Can you share how you felt when you realized you needed to be saved from your sins?

· Did you understand that a holy God who loved you would not accept you in your sinful condition? When you sin today, how are you affected?

· Read Psa. 51:17. Is this your heart? What does the promise mean to you?

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted

· What do you think of in the ordinary use of “mourn”? Why would your heart be in mourning because you desire forgiveness from your sins? Is this why Jesus died?

· Read Joel 2:2. What does God promise if you turn to Him with this heart attitude? What is the promise in Psa. 51:17 above, and in this verse? Can you trust God for your future?

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth

· What is the meaning of “meek”? How did Jesus illustrate this character quality? How can you show meekness? Why is it easier to lash out under pressure than be self-controlled?

· Read Psa. 37:11 and Col. 3:12. How is being meek the opposite of arrogance?

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteous, for they shall be filled

· How is it possible to have a desire for righteousness as great as your daily food? What do you think are some traits of a person who truly desires a heart like God’s?

· Read Job 23:12. How did Job feel he had loved God? If you are desperate for the things of God, can you stand firm on His promises? How do you think He will fill you?

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy

· Can anyone think of passages in Scripture where someone showed mercy? Read Mark 11:25. Is this forgiveness the same as showing mercy?

· What will you receive from God because you were merciful to others?

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God

· Can someone give an example of what it means to be “pure in heart”? Read 1 Peter 1:2. What are three ways Peter illustrates a pure heart in this verse?

· As we seek to have the power and presence of God in our lives, growing in our knowledge of Him, how will that translate into “seeing” Him?

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God

· Do you know someone who is a “peacemaker”? How do they act? What is their personality like? How do they promote peace?

· Read Isaiah 52:7. What is the greatest example of being a peacemaker that you can think of? What act of peace did you embrace when you became God’s child?

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom

· Read Matt. 5:10-12. Why is one blessed when suffering for Jesus? Read Acts 9:6 and 5:41. God considers it a righteous thing for a believer to suffer for Christ’s sake; why does that bring fear? Do you believe God will give us grace if that is in our future?

· Read Rev. 2:10. This verse is coming alive for Christians all over the world today. Do we hold these believers up in prayer? Is there anything else we can do?

CHECKLIST TAKEAWAY:

1) Recognize our desperate need for Christ

2) Be broken over our sin

3) Walk in humility

4) Long for the presence of Christ

5) Show mercy because you’ve been shown mercy

6) Work to be like Him

7) Love others as much as God does

8) Don’t worry about the world’s response

Close:

These eight character qualities provide a great self-examination for us to begin with this year, searching our hearts to see how we measure up. Are you doing most of them? A few? None? Are you a true follower, or will you be denying Him when the going gets tough?

If you really have a heart that desires to know God more each year, see which of these you need to work on and get started. If you’re saved, you probably were broken over your sinful state, mourned your lost status and threw yourself on God’s grace! You’ve taken the first steps—now take more. It won’t be easy or quick—just keep on keeping on. Don’t quit. Ever!

By Sandy Day January 15, 2023

A NEW START

January 01, 2023

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

A new year! Like the birth of a baby, a new year seems to have an abundance of hope attached to it. Hope for the future, hope for a new beginning, hope for life to be better. So many people make plans—resolutions—to start fresh January 1st. Are you one of those? As the pastor points out today, doing things with the same actions we’ve always used will only achieve the same results we’ve always had. In order to get different results, get closer to God, or make new resolutions actually work, we need to use different actions that will achieve different results. Join as we start this new year with new actions that will cause us to be victorious in our results.

Focal Passages: Acts 22:3-10; Philippians 3:7-21.

Paul started just like all of us

· Read Acts 22:3. What were some of Paul’s qualities before salvation? Can one be sincere in their actions but be sincerely wrong and therefore lost for eternity? How?

· Read Acts 22:6-8. As Paul hears a voice speaking to him, why does he address the speaker as “Lord”? How does Jesus respond? Why would Paul have known the name of Jesus of Nazareth? How could he have ignored what he heard?

· What did God do with Paul’s sins up till that time? What happened when Paul acknowledged Jesus as Lord? Read 2 Cor. 5:17. Is this how it was for Paul? For you?

· Read Phil. 3:7-8. What were some of the things that he would have considered loss? What does it mean to say that Paul suddenly realized he needed a “course correction”? Are there ministries, works, or actions that you realized were of no value in your life after salvation? Can you share?

· Read Phil. 3:10. How did Paul’s goals change? Read verse 13b. Why is it so important to let the past die, as you know that God has forgiven it for all eternity? How can Satan use your past if you carry the weight of it with you?

· Did your goals change when God saved you? Have your plans to know God better achieved good results? If not, is it possible you need a “course correction” as well?

He recognized what was really important

· Read Phil. 3:13-14 again, and verse 17. What part of the Damascus Road experience was the catalyst that changed Paul’s direction? When you got saved, was there a particular event that caused it? Can you share? What became Paul’s goal as soon as he was saved?

· Read Matt. 5:6 and Luke 10:27. What do these two verses encapsulate? Are there any verses of scripture that contain any goals more important than these two?

· Now, Paul has grown so much that he exhorts others to follow him. How can a man say, “Imitate me”? What do you see when you look in a mirror? What is there in your life that would keep you from saying to a new believer, “Follow my example”?

· Have you tried to get rid of anything that would hinder you from saying “Follow my example” but it hasn’t worked? What do you need to do (what will produce different results)? Are you training your heart to listen for the voice of God? How?

He knew the rest of the story

· Read 2 Timothy 4:8. What encouragement and hope does this verse give you? What is your focus each morning when you get out of bed? Are you excited to see what the Lord is going to bring into your life each day or are you ready to quit? What will it take to give you new goals if your present ones aren’t working?

· “Who is in your life that you can take under your wing and mentor this year? Who is there you can encourage on a regular basis? How can you forget your past?” Why are these important questions to ask yourself?

Take away:

· Get off to a great start:                     Today! Forget the past (God has!)!

· Don’t give way to distraction:      Don’t allow Satan to keep you from God’s agenda!

· Go deeper than ever before:         Make the commitment to pursue holiness!

· Don’t go alone:                                    We were created for fellowship—not to do life alone!

Close:

It is hard to speak a word on the first day of January that will impact your life the rest of the year. Yet if you made New Year’s Resolutions that were the same as in years past, perhaps it’s time for you to come up with new actions, for obviously the old ways aren’t working. Remember the eight-word dynamic that we’re going to put into our lives: Same Actions—Same Results; Different Actions—Different Results!

What have been your goals? Health, weight, control temper, no yelling? Perhaps it’s time you made your walk with Christ the top priority. Have you ever considered that if you hunger and thirst after righteousness, the others will probably fall into line? Try it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Today has begun a new year. If you were in church, strive to attend every Sunday. You’re not going in order to get a star. You’re going to worship the King of Kings, to have fellowship with the saints of the Lord, to draw strength from being with like-minded brethren, to contribute encouragement to those going through trials—and so much more. You’re going because you love God, and you love His people. Don’t let Satan distract you with things that are of no value. Keep your focus on Christ.

By Sandy Day January 1, 2023

THE WAITING: COMPLETE JOY

December 11, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Our current series, “The Waiting,” looks forward to Christmas Day, when we traditionally celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ as Immanuel: “God with us.” From the Fall in the Garden of Eden to the prophets throughout the Old Testament, many were the prophecies that foretold the coming of the Messiah who would be God coming in human flesh. As we look back at history made clear for us, we know that Baby who was born in the manger at Bethlehem grew to be the sacrifice for our sins, and today reigns as King of Kings and Lord of Lords, sitting beside the Father in heaven until He returns for His children. Is it any wonder we have great joy?

Focal Passages: Luke 2:8-11; John 15:9-11; John 14:15-17, Galatians 5:22-23; James 1:2-4.

The Presence of Christ is the beginning of joy

· Read Luke 2:10-11. Why did the angel say to the shepherds, “Don’t be afraid”? (Realistically, if an angel appeared where you were with a small group of friends, do you have any idea how you would react?)

· What good news did the angel bring? Why did he say the news was of great joy? The tribe of Israel (Jacob) had been chosen by God to be His chosen people; what type of Messiah were they expecting, based on their scrolls and prophecies?

· The Messiah was coming to save people “from their sins”; what kind of joy probably filled the shepherds as they looked at this newborn king?

· How can you get this joy? When you accept Jesus’ payment for your sin and receive eternal life, how much joy can you have?

Following Christ brings complete joy

· Read John 15:9-11. Who is speaking in this passage? About how old is Jesus now? Who is He speaking to? What commandment is He passing on to His followers?

· If you follow Him, how will that give you His joy? Why did He tell His followers (and us!) how much joy one can receive by following Him?

· How can you have complete joy? What is the difference between joy and happiness? How can you lose your happiness? Can you lose your joy?

Abiding in Christ multiplies joy

· Read John 14:15-17. How do you multiply your joy? What are some ways you follow Him daily? Who is the Spirit of Truth? Why does the world not know Him?

· Read Gal. 5:22-23. Besides joy, what are other fruits of the Spirit? Why does it say that there is no law against those things? How contagious is someone who is filled with these fruits? How do we multiply fruits?

Standing Strong in trials is the benefit of joy

· Read James 1:2-4. How does the testing of our faith produce patience? Can anyone give an example? Why did Dr. Falwell, Sr. always say, “Trials can make you better or bitter”?

· What are your options for handling a trial when you are going through one? If you choose to believe God knows best, how does that lead to more faith?

· Read Job 23:8-10. To persevere in a trial, knowing God is doing something you do not understand, leads to a deeper faith; how did Job react in this passage? Why should we be joyful that we choose to trust God when a trial is upon us?

Close:

All of us can identify with “waiting.” There are few days that go by wherein we do not have to wait, at some point, for something. It may simply be to pay for an item in a store, or it may be long-anticipated guests are arriving to spend the holidays. The waiting can be swift or slow, dreaded or anticipated highly, uncertain and “iffy” or days filled with anticipation of pleasure. How many of us are waiting for an event that the whole world will tune in to watch?

The coming to earth of Jesus Christ, Immanuel, God with us, was of such importance that God dispatched some of the angelic host of heaven to announce His birth to a selected few. The sad truth is, though, that because His coming was not in the manner that myriads of individuals thought it would be, their minds were closed to the truth that Messiah had come.

For those of us who have received Him gladly, we are recipients of joy for all eternity. And we know, to us who received Him, that He gave the right to become children of God! (John 1:12). What unspeakable joy! As the song in the praise and worship part of our service says, “joy…an overflowing well, no man can tell.” And it is. Knowing God has paid for one’s sins (and only that particular person knows the amount of them) gives a joy that no one can take away. Our happiness? It ebbs and flows like the tides of the sea, depending on circumstances. But our joy? It is always and ever our very own, as we continually abide in God’s presence, with His complete joy in us, always flowing strong during trials. It bubbles up inside of us until it fills our being! Can there be any better good news than “this day…a Savior is born, who is Christ the Lord,” and who has paid for our sins, giving those of us who believe eternal life. What joy!

By Sandy Day December 11, 2022

HOPE: THE ANCHOR FOR YOUR SOUL

November 27, 2022

Charles Billingsley

Everyone above the age of a child understands that the human body has several needs in order to live. Food, water, and air are musts for the physical body to survive, while love and hope are perhaps just as necessary for our emotional or spiritual well-being. No-one can see them—yet we all know when they’re missing from life. Without hope for a future, many people do not have the will to continue to live. What is a believer’s hope? Today Charles Billingsley will present us with the answer as he offers that hope connects us to God, allowing us to know within our hearts that we will have a future in heaven. Hope is a healer, a motivator, and the anchor for our soul. Hope has a name: His name is Jesus.

Focal Passages: Hebrews 6:13-20; Genesis 15:1-6; John 1:1-3; 1 Peter 1:3-5; Romans 5:1-2; Psalms 110:4.

Because of the Promises Jesus Fulfilled in the Past

· When someone makes you a promise, what is the most important thing to know about that person? If they are trustworthy and have built a relationship with you, how do you view their promises?

· List some of the promises God has made in the Old Testament and tell what you remember about the circumstances as well as the outcome. Were these promises made to include believers throughout history?

· Read Numbers 24:17, 19, Isaiah 9:6, and Micah 5:2. Who are these prophecies referring to? When did they come to pass? Why is it impossible for any of the promises of God to fail? Read Numbers 23:19. What connection can you make between this statement and the promises of God?

· Read Jeremiah 17:7. If you are convinced that God cannot lie, that He upholds His promises that He has made, and that He will never let one of them fail, can you trust Him with your hope for eternal life? Why? Read John 1:1-3. Who is He?

Our hope is the anchor for our soul because of the promises He fulfilled in the past.

Because of the Promises Jesus will Fulfill in our Future

· As Pastor Charles mentioned, we live between two enormous, world-shaking, events: the first advent of Jesus Christ, and His second advent, when He returns. Read John 14:1-3. What was the scene of this promise? Have any of the promises of Jesus failed yet? How does your spirit respond to promises like this?

· Read 1 Peter 1:3-5. Does anyone know what the word “Hope” means, when used in the Biblical sense? Some of the definitions for the “living” hope that Peter mentions are to live, breathe, be among the living; to enjoy real life; living water, fresh, strong, efficient, powerful, efficacious. How do these amazing words make you feel about your living hope?

· Read these promises: Romans 5:1-2, Hebrews 6:19, 20, Psalms 110:4. Can you trust Jesus with these promises for your salvation and eternal life? Can you contain the peace that these promises give to your spirit?

Biblical hope not only desires something good for the future—it also expects it to happen!

Close:

If you wrote down the statistics that were shared on the hopeless state of our country, you may recall that almost one out of every two persons with whom you cross paths is sad, lonely, and hopeless. About one in every four has thoughts of suicide. That means they see their circumstances never changing—or at least within a period of time in which they feel they can survive. Have you ever been one of those? When someone loses hope, their life is so tragic that the thought of getting out of bed can be daunting. It does not mean they are homeless, although that can be the case. It simply means they see no future for themselves that is worth the pain of living. They are alive, but not living. They feel dead. They wish they were.

What can you do about those stats? As a believer, with the kind of hope Peter wrote about, you know that prayer is a weapon God has given you to fight against Satan as he tries to destroy you. God has also given you pieces of spiritual armor that you can “put on” (Eph. 6) that will cause Satan to flee from you. He has made you promises that He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do you think those hopeless people know these verses, or these promises? No. They may not even be aware that God wants a real relationship with them, that He loves them and wants to guide them to a happy and holy life. You have the keys in your hand to change their life. Are you willing to try?

Are you aware that there are over 8,800 promises in the Old Testament? Approximately 7500 of them are made to mankind. Do you think for a moment that God has forgotten any of them? Not on your life. He is acutely aware of every one of them. Why? Because you are so very important to Him, and not only is He trustworthy, but He has also assured us that none of His promises will fail. Do you think it might change the perspective of those hopeless people if they knew the promises of God were meant to give them hope and a future?

We can’t ignore these people! Talk to your pastor or your church leaders about this terrible situation. Probably others in your sphere of influence will be glad to work with you and give these souls some hope, just as you have. God’s love is too wonderful not to let others know how much He cares. Share His love. Save some lives!

By Sandy Day November 27, 2022

ONE VETERAN’S STORY

November 13, 2022

Dr. Tim Lee

Today we extend a very warm welcome to Dr. Tim Lee, as we honor the veterans of the United States Military who have served or are serving our country. Having roots at the end of the first World War, Veterans Day was established for a day of celebration as we remember those soldiers who have stood for or fought for peace and justice in our world.

Dr. Lee is a Marine who gave the life as he had known it from birth to eighteen years of age to the United States Marine Corp. He loves to explain to audiences that the two dates engraved on the tombstones of persons who have lived and died represent very little in comparison to the “dash” that lies between the two dates. On that dash can be written an entire life, whether months, years, or decades. The stories of all people begin at their birth—those amazing or common actions that tell how one has lived a life.

Dr. Lee’s “dash” is filled with a life of adventure, pain, and happiness. Only the one who has lived life to its fullest can best tell their own story—and so it is with Dr. Lee. To hear it told by someone other than himself would take away the passion, excitement, pain, and beauty brought about by the living of those days.

As Dr. Lee would tell you, entering into a season of pain and trials that can defy description is not easy, for one has no idea if they will make it through to the other side. As it ends, however, there is a banner of truth, “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)!”

Rather than a group study on this November 13, 2022, we respectfully ask that you go online to the Thomas Road Baptist Church website (www.trbc.org) and watch the service for today. It will be an hour spent most profitably, and you may certainly find yourself encouraging friends or family to watch the broadcast for themselves. You won’t regret watching Dr. Lee tell his story.

Above all, we want to acknowledge our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, who, for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:2). To Him be all the glory, honor, and praise for adopting as His children the sons of men! For, as the truth is in Jesus, may you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man, which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness (Eph. 4:21b-24.) Amen.

Submitted by Sandy Day November 13, 2022

JUST DO IT

October 30, 2022

Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Building a long-term relationship (like a marriage) takes hard work! What are some of the “non-negotiables” of a bond that will cause it to grow stronger with time?

Today we wrap up our series on the life of Israel’s best-known king, David, as we come to the end of his life. Having lived seventy years, David has offered us the opportunity to learn great lessons, both from the victorious leader on how to chase after the heart of God, as well as from the imperfect human who sinned so greatly “the sword would never depart from his house.” He also sinned by having the people of Israel counted, apparently spending some time considering what a great army of fighting men he led. Even in sin, David was a man of immediate repentance when his heart refocused on God. Join with us as we study his important “deathbed instructions” from a wise father to his son.

Focal Passage: Acts 13:36, Psalm 27:13-14, 1 Chronicles 26:1-8, 9-10, 1 Kings 2:1-4.

Know God

· Read 1 Chronicles 23:1. David is now on his deathbed, probably frail at seventy years of life. What are some of the descriptions you can use when you think of his whole life? What had been his primary focus throughout his lifetime?

· What was the major concern that he was made aware of now, and that he must take care of quickly before he dies? Why was it so important?

· Read 1 Chron. 28:9a. David admonishes Solomon to set his course for life. What is the first thing he tells him to do?

· How did David learn everything he knew about God? Read Psalm 8:3-6. Why is it astounding that he had such a deep knowledge of God?

· How do you know God? What is the greatest way in which you can know God intimately? How important is it that you spend some quality time with Him daily?

· Are you able to have a small amount of time in worshiping God daily? What can you do? Why do we feel worship is only done in the church? How much time do you spend reading and meditating on His word daily? How vital is this to you?

Knowing God should be the ultimate purpose of your life!

Serve God

· Read 1 Chron. 28:9 again. What is the second thing David exhorts Solomon to do? What are the two ways in which David tells him to serve God?

· What does he mean “with his whole heart”? Read Mark 12:32-34. Did this Scribe have a good grasp of the totality of loving God with one’s whole being? (What did he lack?)

· What was the second way David told Solomon to serve God? Read 2 Cor. 8:12. What is Paul saying in this verse? In your life, do you have a zeal for God, but lack confidence that you can complete a job to God’s satisfaction? Do you realize that God will accept the job you do, if done in sincerity and love for Him? Why would He do this?

· Read Romans 12:1-2. Why is it so important to be renewed in your mind? During any given day, what are some of the “arrows” that are shot into your mind by the world?

· Read Malachi 3:16-18 and Psalm 100:1-5. How seriously does God take our service to Him? Does He desire us to do it joyfully? Is it to be a burden?

Seek God

· In speaking to Solomon, what was the third thing that David told him to do? How do you seek God? Read Lamentations 3:25-26. How does God view your seeking Him?

· Read Psalm 14:2-3. Does it seem as though there are not many who actually seek God, who desire with their whole being to know Him better?

· Read Psa. 69:30-32. Are you seeking after God?

Close:

Hopefully, the more we are encouraged by sermons that spur us to value our time with God, the more we will know how vital it is to our life, our family’s life, and our children’s future that we take these simple instructions that David had for Solomon and incorporate them into our own schedules. These words of David were spoken before the leaders of the house of Israel and were last words of being obedient to the ways of God. Even today, last words spoken by someone near to us are revered, and, if possible, carried out. We often hear the lament of someone who hasn’t been able to perform “last words,” and it causes much heartache.

Those three steps for Solomon are just as important to us today as they were to him: KNOW God, SERVE Him, and SEEK Him. Charles challenged us to learn to spend time alone with God in this manner:

1) Detach yourself daily, getting alone with God in silence, for at least 15 minutes or more. No cell phone, no music, tv, or interruptions. Listen for His voice.

2) Withdraw weekly for at least 2 hours, seeking nothing except to hear from God. He will not disappoint. Don’t give up on the silence. Listen for Him. Draw near to Him.

3) Abandon annually. Each year, get away for 2-3 days to be along with God. No electronics. The family won’t collapse if they know where you are and what you’re doing, and the result will be a home-life that transcends the ordinary!

Susannah Wesley, mother of John and Charles Wesley, once wrote: “We must know God experientially, for… the heart [must] perceive and know Him to be [its] supreme good, [and its] only happiness, [and]… the soul [must] feel and acknowledge that [it] can

have no repose, no peace, no joy but in loving and being loved by Him.” (Grammar of Susannah Wesley corrected for today’s style).

DAVID: THE KINDNESS OF A MAN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART

October 16, 2022

   Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Treating an enemy with kindness is very hard—but very rewarding if we actually do it, isn’t it? Can anyone share an experience when you’ve done “the right thing”?

These past several weeks have been challenging as we’ve studied—and hopefully are striving to learn lessons from—the life of David, the shepherd boy who became a great king. Knowing God Himself witnessed of David, “He is a man after [My} own heart,” gives us a standard of excellence that we need to absorb into our daily lives, putting into practice the examples which David left behind for us. As we examine his life, we also see that he exemplified the fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22, which are not able to be separated from a life of intentionally seeking after a heart like God’s. Today, may we continue pressing on toward that goal!

Focal Passage: 1 Samuel 24:20-22, 2 Sam. 1:11-16, 9:3-8, and Prov. 24:17-18.

Despite the attacks by Saul, David was willing to forgive

• Read 1 Sam. 24:20. It is hard not to roll our eyes as we read yet again of Saul admitting defeat at the hands of David; why do we feel doubt that an enemy will keep his word after setting a precedent of going back on it? How does that make you feel?
• Read 24:21-22. What did Saul ask of David? How did David respond? What fruit of the Spirit did David exhibit here? Why did David swear to let Saul’s kin live?
• Why, do you think, had David made it his life’s goal to know God? What were some of the ways he was intentional about knowing God intimately?
• How can we search for God until we know Him intimately? What part does His Word play in this? Will we all face some kind of attacks in life, as David did? What type of spirit must we have if we are to be like Jesus?

David would not celebrate when his enemy fell

• Read 2 Sam. 1:11. When David later heard that the battle had gone against Israel and Saul and his sons were dead, how did he respond? Read verse 12. Being honest, would you have had a reaction like the young man who thought he was bringing David good news that Saul was dead, or like David, grieving over his king? What kind of spirit must one have to mourn for a fallen enemy?
• Even while mourning Saul’s passing, David accepted responsibility as a king. Read verses 13-16. Does anyone know why David had the man killed? Read Deut. 25:17-19. Had David ever forgotten?
• Read Prov. 24:17-18. How did David fulfil this passage? Why is it much better to seek the salvation of an enemy, rather than his destruction? What fruit of the spirit was David displaying here? Can you imagine having an enemy you prayed for stand near you before God, saying, “He/She prayed for me to be saved when I was his/her enemy”? Would that be possible unless you have a heart like God?

David was willing to honor his promise and extend kindness to a hurting family

• Read 2 Sam. 9:3-5. Later, when David reigned over Israel, what did he remember? Why could he easily have forgotten his pledge? Does God take

vows seriously? How do you know?

• Read verses 6-8. How do you imagine Mephibosheth felt when he heard he

was going to meet King David? How do you know David went the extra mile in keeping his vow? How did Saul’s grandson react?

• How can we see ourselves and Jesus in verse 8, as Mephibosheth prostrated himself on the floor? Read Eph. 2:4-6. How is verse 5 like Mephibosheth, and how is it like us? How is verse 6 like us and him? Why is it imperative that we never forget how God showed grace to us—even when we were devising wicked plans for our enemies? Read Prov. 6:16-19. Why would it be a good idea for us to memorize these seven things that are an abomination to the Lord?

Close:

There is no easy way to get the edges sanded off our “earthen vessel” without some pain, is there? As we look back at David’s early life, there was not a lot that was easy for him. While keeping his father’s sheep, the first few times wild animals came to steal and kill the flock had to have been scary for the young boy, until he became confident in his trust for God to help him. As he was growing in strength, he was also growing in his love for the Lord and spending much time in close communion with Him. Later, it seemed his relationship with his brothers was not what it should be. Doesn’t he sound like everyone’s son as he asks more than once, “Why? What is it I’ve done now!?” Yet, he was chasing after God’s heart.

For him, the world was probably not so different than ours is for us. Evil has always existed, as Adam and Eve could witness to us. But today, more than ever, all the world needs to know they are loved. When you hurt so badly, when you feel no one is left who cares about you, you are more vulnerable to believing wicked plans that have been devised. Hate today is more prevalent than it’s ever been. No matter what you read on social media, the calmest of all posts still seem to be a magnet for hate-filled rebuttals. Hurting people want to hurt others. Who can help them? Only someone who truly knows that God’s Word has the answer to every problem, and who will minister to the lost, the broken, the helpless, the one at the end of his rope without doing so with contempt for the victim. Why are we being silent?

What can you do? Start with David’s life. Spend time every day walking and talking to God—the Holy Spirit took up residence in your life the moment you became a believer. If He’s indwelling you, being there for you hour in and hour out, shouldn’t you be comfortable with His presence, talking to Him “without ceasing”? It doesn’t have to be only when you need help! He values the intimate details of what you’re thinking, feeling, fearing, etc.! Get to know Him until you can’t imagine life without Him. As you are watered in the Word and your roots are firmly within His life, you will produce fruit—the Fruit of the Spirit. You will value every moment with Him.

 

   DAVID: A RISE AND FALL

  October 02, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Have you ever been in a situation where someone else got the praise, although you felt you deserved it? What emotions did you feel? Can you share?

As we continue our series, “David: Chasing the Heart of God,” we find the three thousand years that have elapsed since David was a shepherd boy have not diminished the many relevant lessons which we can apply to our own journey through life. Both David—a shepherd boy—and Saul—the most “handsome man among the children of Israel” (1 Sam. 9:2)—were anointed by God, but one grew to serve God with his whole heart while the other let himself be carried away by pride, forfeiting the pleasure God had in him. Join us as we study the lives of these two men, accepting the truth that a life of sin will never gain us God’s blessings.

Focal Passage: 1 Samuel 18:5-15.

David’s success grew

• Who recalls where David went after Samuel anointed him king? Read Zech. 4:10. How was David’s youth as a shepherd a “day of small things”? How did he use those years to embrace his desire to “chase the heart of God”?
• Read 1 Samuel 18:5a. When David was brought in to serve King Saul, what were his duties? When Saul later sent him to serve in the army, what did he do? Was his faithfulness to Saul a result of his kingship or of his integrity? Explain.
• At this point in David’s life, what did he have to work with that we don’t have? Did he act with faithfulness and obedience because he loved God? Do we?

Saul’s insecurity grew

• Read verses 6-8a. As the army came back from battle, what was Saul expecting to hear when the crowds flooded the streets? What did he hear? Whenever you hear a sentence, then a “BUT”, what do you infer? Can you give an example?
• When Saul heard David praised, how did he react? What caused his anger and resentment? What is the difference between the two emotions?
• Read Jas. 1:19-20 (NASB if possible). What emotion caused the anger? Did Saul have a choice how to handle his anger? What could he have done? (Is this how you handle being angry, or do you wait to repent after you have wounded the other person?) Is anyone immune to the seduction of pride? Read Prov. 11:2. How did Saul put himself on the road to destruction with his anger?

When God’s anointing is on you, the enemy is out in full force

• Read 1 Sam. 10:10, 1 Sam. 16:13, and Eph. 1:13-14. Why are all these anointings of the Spirit of God the same? What was the aftermath of David’s anointing, Saul’s anointing, and ours? Do we all have the same power available at that point?
• Read 1 Peter 5:8. Why does a large bull’s-eye appear on our back when we chase after the heart of God?
• Read Jas. 1:13-15. How had Saul’s anger given way to actions? Read Jas. 3:16. Where could it end? How did David react as Saul tried to kill him? When you are attacked by someone who is angry and jealous, how do you normally respond?
• Read Jas. 4:6. In what actions had Saul chosen his way over God’s way? How can the sin of pride destroy the anointing of God on our life?

The hand of God is better than the blessing of men

• Read 1 Sam. 18:12-15. What were the emotions Saul was carrying every day because he had chased after the evil of the world? For a long season (possibly as long as three years), David was chased by Saul. Did he compromise his love for God in order to stay safe? How do you know?
• Read John 6:66-69. This is a perfect passage for us to meditate on this week, as it encapsulates the choices we—as Spirit-anointed Christians—have as we choose to chase after the heart of God, or the praise of men. Man’s praise can build our pride so high that God removes His hand from us. What will you choose?

Close:

We listen to—or read in Scripture—the story of David, a young boy who was visited by the prophet Samuel, was anointed king over God’s people, and we think “well, I’ll never be like David!” That may be true but the lessons we are incorporating today can produce a life of obedience and faithfulness to God. What are these lessons?

We learn from the story of David that we can trust the promises of God. “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” (Num. 23:19). You have never prayed one prayer after salvation that God has not answered! That does not make Him a genie in a bottle—sometimes His answer is No, sometimes Yes, and sometimes it is Wait. But He never ignores you, or leaves you, or forsakes you. Reread the verse in Numbers again, absorbing the truth that if God says it, He will do it. If He has spoken, He will bring it about. He is a good, good Father.

We can also learn to not let ourselves be so discouraged from our circumstances that it keeps us from trusting in the plan God has for our life. Certainly, as humans we are subject to discouragement! Romans 8:28-39 reminds us that we are not yet perfect but are constantly being transformed by circumstances “into the image of God’s dear Son”, and “nothing can separate us from the love He has for us.” Our trust in His goodness and love for us should be so encompassing that even though we are discouraged, we know beyond a doubt that He has got everything worked out for our best.

We must also be convinced that we would be cutting our own throats to do anything that would separate us from God’s love—the loss of a relationship with Him would harm us more than we can grasp. To gratify the pride that would seek man’s praise and reject God would mean losing that blessed child-Father relationship which we should value above all things! Eph. 6:5-7 reminds us not to be men-pleasers, but to concentrate on God’s doing God’s will. Nothing we can do will ever cause Him to love us less, and nothing will ever cause Him to love us more. His love for us is complete. Let us love and serve Him above all else as we walk this earth.

A TALE OF TWO KINGS

September 18, 2022

Troy Temple

When is the last time you recall being asked to do something that was really beneath you, but you did it anyway? Can you share what happened?

Today we continue our series “David: Chasing the Heart of God,” as we focus on two kings of Israel: Saul, the first king of Israel, and David, the shepherd boy who became king. They accurately represent everyone who lives and eventually makes a choice whether to serve God and love Him with one’s whole heart, or serve self, and do everything for the benefit of one’s own life. One way leads to a life of joy, freedom, and eternal life, the other ends in a life of disaster, with an eternity spent in hell. Join us as we listen to Mr. Troy Temple bring 1 Samuel 16 alive.

Focal Passage: 1 Samuel 16:13-23.

God’s Way to Prepare a King

Allow God to map the way

· Before we begin our study of the two kings, read 1 Sam. 8:19-20. What were some of the reasons Israel had wanted a king? Why would God go ahead and anoint Saul, knowing he would disobey Him? What was the final ‘straw’ for God to remove His power from Saul?

· Read 1 Sam. 16:14-17. What can you infer about the spiritual state of Saul’s servants? How did they know that an evil spirit had come into Saul’s life? (They did not have the benefit of God’s Word to tell them!) Why was Saul not open to doing things God’s way?

· Is there any indication that Saul was willing to submit to God’s authority?

Rely on God’s presence

· Can someone please tell of Samuel anointing David, from last week’s sermon? Read verse 18. What were the character qualities that Saul’s servants realized David had in his life? What was the most important?

· How do you suppose the servants were aware that the Lord was ‘with him’? This was David’s reputation! How does it imply that others can see and understand that our God is with us individually and personally? Read Acts 4:13. How can the verses from our focal passage, as well as this verse, help you understand how important your testimony is?

· Read Prov. 22:1. Have you ever known someone with a “good name”? What does that encompass? Did they look to God to be sufficient for them?

Serve in obscurity

· Read 1 Sam. 16:19-22. How did Saul know David was with the sheep? How do you think he spent his time as he continued to be under the authority of his father?

· What could David have said when Saul ordered him to come to him? Why did David go without argument? What does this say about David’s true character?

· In verse 22, do you think Saul knew of Samuel anointing David? What might have been an ulterior motive for having David close to him?

Status is the enemy of service

· Read verse 23. How does David’s service to Saul speak volumes about his heart attitude?

· Read Luke 22:24-27. Did David carry out this principle of life by attending to Saul’s needs whenever he called for David? What could David have said?

 

Close:

Hopefully, as we studied this passage on this period of David’s life, you can begin to see what his heart was like and why God testified that David was a man after God’s own heart. And even though you may have read this chapter of 1 Samuel many times, perhaps you had never noticed some of the phrases which Mr. Temple pulled out, focusing on a phrase here or there that gave David greater godliness!

David was submissive to his father’s authority as he grew. He was faithful as a shepherd, taking care of the flock with diligence and boldness. In 1 Samuel 17:33-37, before he confronts Goliath, David testifies of God’s favor upon him. It seems as though he used his time with the sheep writing Psalms of praise to God for His goodness. He pulled on those hymns of worship throughout his life. He was also sold out to God. Whenever Satan seemed to open a door where David could say “Whoa! I’ve been anointed king by Samuel. I won’t (fill in the blank!) …” he did nothing of the sort, but obediently and submissively carried out any job required. Can we say that?

Near Roanoke, Virginia, lies a Baptist Church which was pastored for many years by a servant of God, Mike G. He was an extraordinary pastor, growing a local body of believers into a large church with a global vision. They supported—then sent—missionaries by the ‘busload’ to carry out the great commission. However, whenever anyone needed help, whether in the kitchen serving, going overseas to minister to unsaved people groups, to walking hot, dusty roads to reach people, Mike has never pulled his ‘rank’ as the church’s pastor and sent someone else. He has always stepped up to fill any job that needed to be done, serving selflessly, diligently, and wholeheartedly. He is, indeed, a “little Christ” [Christian]. Would that we all would empty ourselves like this, seeing everything we do as a joy, “doing it as unto the Lord!” (Col. 3:23). Someday, Mike will be rewarded with crowns to throw at the feet of Jesus.

What about you? Are you ready to serve quietly until God brings into your life the next step of your journey, or do you know exactly how it needs to be and you’ll call on God’s help only if you get into a pickle? Do you pull status for your position, reminding everyone just exactly who you are? One way, you’re a Saul. The other way, you’re a David

HOW DO WE REMEMBER, REPENT, AND DO?

August 28, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

With a new school year starting, it’s a good time to reflect on our teachers who excelled at their job (though we might not have appreciated them at that time). Can you recall a teacher who taught you so much more than they had to?

Over this past summer, we have concentrated on many of the books of John, the beloved apostle. Last week we studied the first of seven letters to the churches in Revelation, told to John by Jesus Christ. Jesus closed that letter to the church at Ephesus by an admonition to remember from where they had fallen, repent, and do the works they had done when their church had first begun. Today, we will be reminded how to reignite our “first love” for Jesus Christ, the need to repent, and how to again do the works that we were thrilled to do when we were first saved. Please join us.

Focal Passage: Revelation 2:5; John 7:37-39.

The power to convict, convert, and change

· Read Rev. 2:5. The church at Ephesus had lost their first love for Jesus Christ; what did He tell them to do? What can gradually interfere with our walk with Jesus? Who will be there to help us restart?

· Read John 7:37-39 and John 4:10. What/Who is the source of the living water Jesus spoke of? Read Matt. 5:6. What does Jesus mean that we are to hunger and thirst for righteousness?

· Read Titus 3:3-7. What does God say was our past? What are we like after salvation? Read 1 Cor. 3:16. Where does the Spirit reside now?

· Read John 6:63. What does John mean that it is the Spirit who gives life? How do we accede power in our lives to the Holy Spirit? What are some of the Spirit’s functions in your life?

· Read 2 Cor. 3:18. According to this verse, what happens as a result of our salvation?

The power to teach

· Read John 16:13-14. What does the passage say the Holy Spirit will do in our lives? Why is His job to glorify Jesus Christ?

· Read John 14:26. How does He teach us what we need to know? Why does He desire to teach us? What happens when we try to figure life out on our own?

· What is the Spirit’s role in our sanctification? How long does the process take?

The power to protect

· Read Romans 15:13. What does the Spirit do when we believe? How does that verse minister encouragement to your soul?

· Read Ephesians 1:13-14. At salvation, what happens? Read 2 Tim. 2:18. Who seals us? Read John 17:12. Do we have to be concerned that God will eventually change His mind concerning His having adopted us as His child?

The power to propel

· Read John 14:15-18. How long will the Spirit be with us?

· Sometimes we get frustrated with people because they seem so dense; why is the world unable to receive spiritual things?

· Read Acts 1:8. What does the Spirit propel us to do? Is this a direct answer to our ability to carry out Matt. 28:19-20?

Close:

If ever you’ve had problems in your life as a believer, is it possible that you were unaware just how much of your life is able to draw help from the Holy Spirit? As soon as you accepted Jesus Christ as your Savior, the Spirit came to reside in you, indwelling your life and sanctifying you as a temple in which He will take up residence until you leave this earth! Is that ever a marvelous thing?

As we studied this sermon, were you able to grasp that you have the answer to every problem you face if you will just turn control over to Him who loves you so? Have you sinned? He will convict you so that you can run to Jesus and confess what you’ve done. He will empower you to ask forgiveness and repent, then give you the strength to replace the sin with acts of righteousness. Are you lonely? He’s the Great Comforter. Are you sad? He will encourage and comfort you. Are you hungering and thirsting to be righteous? He will fill you. Have friends failed you? The Spirit will never leave you—you can count on His presence each and every moment of the day. There’s nothing you will ever need, nor anything you have to face alone when you trust Him completely, because He will hold you until the day of your glorification.

He has been given to you as a “down payment” to be held in trust until you are safely home with God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son. He is an equal third Person in the trinity, and as such, can give you peace that surpasses all understanding. He is God!

      THE LETTERS OF JOHN: WALK IN TRUTH

     August 14, 2022

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Sometimes people are dissatisfied with the way they have lived their lives. If you could live your life over again, what would you change?

Today we will finish our series on the Letters written by John the Beloved. Now in his nineties, John was so widely known that he could send a letter to the churches as being simply from “The Elder,” and believers would know who wrote it. John writes this last letter—3^rd John—as a personal letter to Gaius (unknown). Because God was the originator of the words, John’s letter is as pertinent today as it was when he penned it. This letter deals with the importance of walking in truth throughout our sojourn in this life.

Focal Passage: 3 John.

Walk in Truth

• Read 3 John verses 3-4. What lesson should we learn from these two verses? Read Psa. 51:6. How important is it that we walk in truth?
• Ultimately, Who is really saying “I have no greater joy than to see My children are walking in truth”? What are some things that make our “Dad” proud?
• In three simple ways, how can our responsibility toward truth be summarized? Why and how do we seek truth? How will we know truth? What will happen when we walk in truth?

Help others do the same

• Read verses 6-8. Why is it so important that we who are at home help support those who go “into the world and preach the gospel”?
• What happens when we support missionaries? Why are you not leaving home to spread the gospel? What are the ways in which you can participate in being part of missions?

Avoid hypocrisy and jealousy

• Read 3 John verses 9-11. As we read of Gaius (verses 1-7), Diotrephes, (9-11), and Demetrius (vv. 11-15)—what do they represent in our modern churches? What are some things that the “Diotrephes’s” of our churches do? Who was ultimately behind his agenda? What did/does Satan desire to do? What motivates him?
• What was the sin that characterized Diotrephes? What do leaders like him thrive on? What role does slander play when someone is ruling by pride and, in effect, being a bully in the church?
• What does slander eventually lead to—whether in the church or in any leadership role? What must be done if this person is “running the show”?

Trust in the faithfulness of God

• Read verse 15. What does John wish for Gaius—and ultimately for us? What is the only way whereby we will know peace? Who is the only One who can give peace?
• What is so important about greeting people by their name? Do you know anyone who refuses to use someone’s name? What message does that send to them? Why is it one of John’s final remarks?

Close:

When Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr., was Chancellor of Liberty University and pastor of Thomas Road Baptist Church, the most amazing fact that stood out to everyone was his ability to greet anyone he had ever met by name! Story after story exists of him seeing a student again after five, ten, or even twenty or more years, and calling them by name. God gave the man a memory like no other, so that he could bring about the birth and growth of the world’s largest Christian university—and we continue to feel his impact and hear the beloved stories even a decade and half later.

John knew his days were getting short, and his words would be the only thing he could leave the church. He used this last letter to admonish us to always seek truth, know truth, and walk in truth.

It is amazing that, in his day, John saw the same categories of believers that we have in modern times. Gaius represents those who love God—and therefore loves people. He was always walking in the truth of God, being a great role model. Diotrephes is a good representation of those in leadership positions who rule by bullying—so filled with their own self-proclaimed “greatness” that they want no one around them who is a threat to their key position. One wonders why he was allowed to continue being the prideful bully. Was John on the way to Gaius to remove Diotrephes from this body of believers? We hope so! Would that Christians everywhere have such a strong sense of righteousness in the church that anyone who uses their position to self-aggrandize their own arrogant ego would be removed from the body of believers!

Demetrius—well, he was probably the representative of that army in every well-run church who are made up of faithful members of the body, who want or expect no recognition, who serve as a volunteer for the joy of serving the Lord Jesus Christ in a manner that only wants to make the Father “proud.” It is enough to serve Him, enough to be faithful, and enough to speak of Him with love whenever and wherever possible. That is a good testimony, and as the song goes, “May all who come behind us find us faithful…” May we only seek to glorify the King of Kings.

 

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: THE CONFIDENCE OF A BELIEVER

                 July 31, 2022

                Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

By nature, are you a confident person, comfortable in your own skin, or are you insecure, always thinking the worst of yourself? Can you share?

Today we finish 1 John, absorbing the encouragement that John gives us as he tells, from first-hand experience, why, as children of the Living God, we can have the confidence of eternal life. As we’ve learned, John was writing to the  believers at Ephesus because Agnostics—men who believed they were set apart because they supposedly had more knowledge of God than other people—were undermining their faith with lies. In case you ever question your security as God’s child, join us as we are taught from the last living apostle, just as he had learned from Jesus Christ Himself.

Focal Passage: 1 John 5:13-21.

Confidence in His promise

• Read 1 John 5:13. What is the key word we will often be finding in these next verses? How does the knowledge that we can believe God’s promises give us confidence in our faith?
• Who does John say he is writing these things to? What is the reason he is writing to them? How do you know that his words are for us as well?
• If you are a believer, discuss why you will never lose the security you have of eternal life, knowing God will never let you out of His hand.

Confidence in His care for us

• Read verses 14-15. Here, John writes concerning the importance of the prayers of a believer. What does he say we can be confident of?
• What is the conditional statement in verse 14? How can people misinterpret what John says?
• In verse 15a, how do we know that God hears us? Read John 9:31. Does John mean we must be free of sin? If not, what does he mean? What are examples of a lifestyle someone may not wish to be free from?
• Everyone has a sinful thought, a slip of the tongue, etc. What steps can you take to conquer those sins or lessen Satan’s power to tempt you?

Confidence in our responsibility for others

• Read 1 John 5:16-17. Before we get confused, read the last sentence in verse 17 again. What is the only sin that will certainly lead to spiritual death? What, in verse 16a, does John call this person who has committed a sin that does not lead to death? What would be the difference between a sin that does not lead to death, and one that does? Can you give a Biblical example of a sin that led to death? (Hint: Acts, and more). What about an example for a sin that did not lead to death? (Hint: David, and others).
• As believers, what can we take away from this passage? Should you tell the sinning believer that you are praying for them?
• If rejection of Jesus Christ and the pardon He provided sinners is the one spiritual sin unto death, why can we believers not commit this sin?

Confidence in His protection

• Read 1 John 5:18-19. We know from our own life that a believer does sin. What, then, does John mean? How do you react when a thought from the evil one comes into your mind? By taking the thought captive, and immediately turning it over to God, are we winning against Satan?
• What comes to your mind when John says, “the evil one does not touch him”? What do you remember about Job? Satan, we saw, had authority to go before God, hurt Job, strip him of everything; what, though, did Satan have to have first? Is that why John says he doesn’t touch us?
• The whole world is under the reign of whom? Do you think this why all nations seem to be going downhill?

Confidence in Who He is

• Read verses 20-21, and Colossians 2:13-15. How is the Colossians passage a parallel to verse 20? What did Christ do for us? What has He given us?
• As further proof that we belong to God, who resides in us? How can we tell He is there? Is there any way He will lead us wrong? Will He allow the devil to snatch us away?
• What does he mean, “Guard yourselves from idols”? What is an idol? Name some examples. How can you guard yourselves from them?

Close:

There are few things that give us confidence more than knowing something with every fiber of our being! If we’re going to be tested, it’s in knowing the material; if it’s in cooking, it’s knowing the recipe is perfect; if it’s your driving, it may be the confidence that there are angels all around you all the time! Confidence isn’t usually in our ability—it’s in the object of our faith. We are confident the professor will test us on the information he’s taught; the recipe has been a winner for decades; the angels are on assignment from God.

So it is with God. We have confidence, not because we are super-spiritual, or someone worth God’s notice, but because He sent His Son, who paid our sin debt, gave us a pardon, and adopted as His child for all eternity. With that promise in the Bible, we can know that we are His when we confess Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and repent, turning to Him and giving Him free reign in our lives as King of Kings. Do we think Him to be a liar? No! Can He lie? No! So why would we not have confidence? Our faith is in Him—He will never leave us, forsake us, or let us go out of His hands.

 

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: HOW DO I KNOW?

   July 17, 2022

   Pastor Matt Willmington

At the risk of causing a tiff between a married couple, do you remember the first time you “fell in love” or experienced puppy love? Can you tell us about it?

Many people have been raised on Bible verses such as, “Do unto others as you want them to do unto you,” and “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” We may have been taught that a neighbor is the person next door or across the street. Jesus, in Luke 10:25-37, said that a neighbor is anyone who may cross your path at any time. John continues this first letter to the Ephesians by concentrating on the love a true believer must have for other believers in the church—as well as for people outside the church. He knew if Christians can get God’s concept of love into their hearts —both for God and people—the church would be able to face the world’s attacks. Join us as we study 1 John 4:7-21.

Focal Passage: 1 John 4:7-21

If you love the Father, you love the family

• Read 1 John 4:7, 8, 16, 19. Who is God saying we must love in these verses? Why must we? If we lack love for the brothers and sisters in the church, why is it so important that we figure out why?
• When do you get the indwelling of the Holy Spirit? Is He God, equal to God the Father and God the Son? What are some of His character traits? If He is living within you, how will you conduct yourself?
• What did verse 7 tell us? Read Romans 12:10 and Eph. 4:2. What quality do you especially notice in these two verses? If we take the lead to do the right thing, and to love others in the “family of God,” how is that glorifying God?

Love sends, serves, sacrifices

• Read verses 9-11,14. Why did God send His Son to the world? Read Phil. 2:6. What example of service did Jesus set for us here? Read Rom. 8:9. Is anyone naturally humble? How can we teach ourselves to be humble? Why is humility necessary, if we wish to be like Jesus?
• Read Rom. 12:16 and Gal. 5:13. Why was Matthew Henry correct when he wrote, “We must bear a resemblance to [Christ’s] life, if we would have the benefit of His death”? What quality must we continually seek to develop in our lives?

We love what we see, to love what we can’t see

• Read verses 12, 14, 20. Has anyone seen God at any time? For those who were with Jesus, was this like ‘seeing’ God? Who else do we see that is in His image? How does love for God develop from loving others?
• If you hate a true brother or sister in the faith, and you are striving to please God, what are some actions you must take to get your feelings within God’s boundaries? What would you do?
• Read 1 Thess.5:11, Eph. 4:32, Rom. 14:19 and Jas. 5:9. What are some of the fruits that we will bear indicating we are growing in our capacity to love?

Live in God because He lives in you

• Read verses 12-13, 15-16. What are two affirmations in our lives that will let us know we belong to God? If we take a spiritual test each year, what should we see?
• Read 1 Thess. 5:15, Jas. 4:11 and Gal. 5:26. These are verses on what NOT to do! What actions are you to stay away from? If God the Holy Spirit is living in you, why will you find these impossible to tolerate?

Completed love gives confidence

• Read verses 12, 17, 18. Who loves to put fear into our lives? What are some of the things that fear will center on? How can we drive fear out?
• Why should we not be afraid of facing God in judgment? When did we “put off the old man”?
• Read Rom. 14:13, Gal. 5:15, Eph. 4:25 and Titus 3:3. What are some things that we used to do, but should no longer be doing once we belong to God?

Haters don’t love, lovers don’t lie

• Read verses 20-21. Why should we find it impossible to hate our believing family if we are confessing and believing in Jesus Christ? Read Rom. 15:7. If they confess and believe in Jesus, how should we treat them? Is that how God treats us?
• Read Rom. 15:14, Eph. 5:21 and Gal. 6:2. Why is this how we should be acting toward our church family?
• Read Jas. 5:16, 1 Pet. 4:9, 5:5. These are ways our actions and our fruits will show we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Why is this so important?

Close:

At first it may seem slightly intimidating to read all the “dos and don’ts” in the Scriptures, but what may seem difficult here on earth will be momentary in the light of heaven! Think of what you will have: eternal life, not only with God as your Father and Jesus as your brother, but also with all the family and friends who have died in the Lord and gone to be with Him! How amazing is that? Is obedience too much to ask? No!

For a few short years we will be reaching toward that holy perfection God has asked of us (“Be holy, as I am holy”), in order to be rewarded with no tears, no sin, no sorrow, and so much more! Is that too much to pay for what you will be receiving? Not at all.

This has been a long lesson, but the summary is so short: Love God, and love your brothers and sisters in the faith. Love your neighbor more than you love yourself. As 1 John 1:7 says, “If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanses us from all sin!”

THE LETTERS OF JOHN: LOVE MATTERS

July 3, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Can you share a true blessing that happened this week, and also a challenge that you faced, and tell how you handled it?

Today we will study the second half of chapter 3 in 1 John. Last week, in the first half of the chapter, we learned we could make a change in our lives by seeking purity and avoiding sin. Many of us, if given the option, would make many changes in our lives, especially in those things that impact our lives, causing us to sin. In today’s sermon, John wants us to go to a new level of change as he tells us that love for our Christian brother or sister is paramount—as is also loving our neighbor, the unsaved, different from us by politics, creed, lifestyle, etc., which is how Christ lived. He is our example. Now we need to be the example to the world.

Focal Passage: 1 John 3:11-24

Love is not a choice

• Read 1 John 3:11 and Lev. 19:18. What are some definitions of love? In verse 11, did God—through John—say whom we should love?
• Why did God not give you an option? Why did He not say we could pick and choose the people we want to love?
• Read verse 14. Who are we to love in this verse? Read James 2:8-10. Did James mean just the Church here, or neighbors?
• Lest there be any who needs an excuse to not love a neighbor, can someone share the highlights of the Good Samaritan parable?
• Why is loving others not a good gauge of salvation? Can you be lost and still love others? Can you be saved but NOT love others? Why not?

Jealousy is the enemy to love

• Read verse 12-13. Why did Cain kill Abel? What do you remember about the account of Cain and Abel’s problem as described in Genesis? Why was Cain jealous of Abel? How could he have chosen differently?
• (Think): Do you ever see this scene playing out in your own life (substitute hatred for murder)? What are some things that make you jealous? What can you do to stop jealousy in your life?
• What is it about Christ-followers (like Abel) that is so hard for others (like Cain) to tolerate? In other words, why does the world hate Jesus?
• Read verse 15. Do you know any one who hates someone else? Why would God identify hatred as murder? What is murder driven by? Read 1 Samuel 16:7b.

Love needs to be connected to action

• Read verses 17. How can—as John asked—the love of God reside in a person who will not meet the needs of others whom they know about? Read James 2:14-17. How does the kind of faith that meets needs manifest itself?
• What are some of the ways in which our love for God and for other people shows itself? What does John mean when he says that we need to love “in truth”?
• If you had to list the most important thing that, as a Christian, you experience, what would it be? Why is your behavior while among the unsaved a sure sign of your heart?

Love can only come through Christ

• Read verse 23. What is the difference in the command of God saying “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and spirit,” and what John says, “believe in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ”?
• Read verse 24. Read Deut. 27:10. Is this an OT mate to the NT verse by John? How do you know the Spirit remains inside of you?
• Why is obedience so essential?
• Do you desire to be holy above all things? Read Rom. 7:21-25. Does the desire to be holy ever war with your flesh?

Close:

What a magnificent lesson on love John gives us! Often, in the chaos of life, and the busy-ness of our schedules, we let opportunities slip by that could be turned into a time to put actions to our faith, meeting needs as we go to Walmart, the grocery store, or some other retail store. How many times have you been in a check-out line and the person at the register didn’t have enough money to pay for their purchases? It probably won’t bankrupt you to pull your wallet or purse open—or get out your credit card—and tell the clerk you’ll pay for their groceries. It is an action that says you love them.

Everyone is not lovable; we all know that. If you’ve found a way to love just about all the people who cross your path, teach the lesson at church! However, since the feelings can’t be seen, except as you allow your face to reflect them, at the very least you can smile, greet them happily, or compliment something about them. Those endorphins are going to pop into their hearts, leaving a good feeling for a while. There will always be those who don’t respond to overtures of encouragement but that shouldn’t stop you from offering them. It is an action that says you love them.

Life is very rough right now. Most people are suffering in some manner or are in some type of pain. Ease it when it’s within your power to do so—it won’t cost you anything to smile or say hello. It might also save their life, and the “ripple effect” will go on for days. Just remember how Jesus looked at people and “had compassion” on them (as in Luke 7:13), or even “loved them” (as in Mark 10:21). Can we do any less? These actions tell them you love them. Just like Jesus did.

THE LETTERS OF JOHN: WALKING IN THE LIGHT

June 19, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Sometimes a memory surfaces and it brings us a special, happy feeling. Those are memories to cherish. Can anyone share something that happened that you enjoy recalling?

As we continue to study 1 John, we immediately see that the problems the church faced almost two thousand years ago are the same ones we face today. John was warning the believers to avoid those who were teaching false doctrine. Peter had also warned the church in 2 Pet. 2:1 of these people who were causing the flock to turn away from the truth they had believed when they were saved. Today the global world is in chaos, very confused about what is truth. It is sad that we who know that Jesus Christ can save people from an eternity in hell have been so slow to carry out the great commission. John’s summary is from God: if you love the world, you can’t love God. Our responsibility is to obey the truth and be committed to sharing it.

A Universal Message

• Read 1 John 2:12-14. Who were the three categories of believers that John was writing to? Who did these three groups represent?
• What did the “little children” believe? What else does he say about them? Why is repentance necessary for one to become a believer? Is this what enabled them to be saved? What else was necessary?
• What do the “fathers” know? What does it take to know God? Will you ever finish that learning on this side of the grave?
• What have the “young men” done? What else does he say about young men?
• Why do you think John writes the same things to the young men and the fathers? Which category do you fall in, no matter your age in the faith?

Walk from the world, walk toward the light

• Read 1 John 2:15-17. What is the warning throughout these next few verses?

What is meant by the world? Read Matt. 16:26. What is there in this world that is worth losing your eternal life for? Do you ever think of telling the world this?

• What does John mean that you should not “love the world”? Can you love the world and love God at the same time? Read James 4:4. What are some things that are in the world that can take the place of your love for God?
• What are the three categories of things in the world that one can love, and which will displace your love for God? Can you give some examples of things that fall under the “lust of the flesh”? And “the lust of the eyes”? And “the pride of life”? Read Mark 4:18-20. How is this the same concept that Jesus told?
• What is eventually going to happen to this world? What will eventually happen to those persons who believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, have repented of their sins, and who love to do the will of God?

Now is the Time

• Read 1 John 2:18, 21, 25. What does John mean by saying it is the last hour? When does the Bible say that the man known as the “Antichrist” will come? What did John mean that many antichrists (plural) have come? Why is he warning them?
• When had these believers known the truth? Who was he referring to as “many antichrists”? What does this mean? “no lie comes from the truth”? Read John 8:44. What is the promise that God has given to us?

Stand strong

• Read verses 28-29. Of the 3 original categories of people, which is the one most likely to be swayed by false doctrine? Discuss how this affects school subjects.
• If you “remain in Him,” why would you have confidence? Can God, or Jesus, or the Holy Spirit, lie? For those who remain in Him, what is promised in verse 25?
• Read Mark 16:15. What does God expect from us? Did you ever feel the call of “going,” but never went? Can you share? How do we “remain in Him”?

Close

Few persons who contemplate marriage would ever consider becoming the spouse of someone who loves another person. Why? Because we know that we would never meet their expectations, and they—loving another person—could never really love us or meet our needs. This is a very weak but true illustration of the love that God expects from us. If we love the world, we can’t also love God.

If we are exposed to the gospel of Jesus Christ, believing that He came to this earth, fully man yet fully God, to be the payment for our sin debt, that He died, was buried, and three days later came out of the grave so that we could have eternal life by believing in His name and what He did—but yet we love the things that are in this world, do you think God would say, “Well, okay. It’s not what I had hoped for, but I have part of their heart, so I’ll settle for that.” No. Not at all. With God, it’s either all in, or all out. Yes, He does “consider our frame [our humanity], that we are but dust” (Psa. 103:15). In other words, He realizes we will sin—but if we become truly saved it will not be a lifestyle. Yes, we may sin for a moment, but as soon as we “come to ourselves,” we dissolve into raw emotion, broken in heart and sorry for the sin with all our heart. He hears (I John 1:9), forgives, cleanses, and restores. We can then comfort others who mess up. Read Proverbs 24:16: the righteous fall seven times but get up!

How do we remain strong? By staying in His word, committing it to memory that “we might not sin against God; we stay in prayer, praising God and lifting up those who need our prayer: for salvation, healing, or any another need. He cares that we pray for the salvation of others—it is His will, as He doesn’t wish to see anyone perish and it is why He came to this earth. But His perfect will of healing, or the restoration of relationships, financial crisis, broken hearts and more, may be prayers we don’t see answered. Not because He doesn’t hear, but because the answer is “Not yet” or “Wait.” But ask in faith, believing that He cares, and that He’s working. As the praise song says, “Even when I don’t see it, You’re working—You never stop, never stop working!” Believe it. He is.

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: TAKE A WALK IN THE LIGHT

     June 05, 2022

        Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Statistics tell us that most people have three to five close friends. In today’s age when we often need encouragement, how important are your friends? Can anyone share?

John, the beloved apostle, referred to himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” While we can’t be certain exactly what was in John’s mind when he wrote that of himself, all true Christ-followers can insert their name as being beloved by the Lord. It means He is Lord of your life. You strive to make choices that reflect “What Would Jesus Do,” and your walk and your talk match. The fellowship with Him is unparalleled, as the hymn “In the Garden” says, “And the joy we share, as we tarry there, none other has ever known!”* There is nothing more humbling, more peaceful, more filled with security, than having the God of the universe show you that He loves you. You can take it to the bank, for “The Bible Tells Me So.”

Focal Passage: 1 John vv 1-10.

Jesus is still the Way, Truth and Life

• Read 1 John vv1-2. What do you know about John 1:1, Gen. 1:1 and 1 Jn. 1? What is the important truth common to those three verses? Read James 2:23b, Ex. 33:11a and Jn. 1:47. What testimony does God give about each of these men? Do you doubt His word about them? In Jn. 21:20, what is he called? Would God allow this if it were not so? By establishing John’s veracity, why do we believe he would not lie?
• What did John say he had witnessed? When friends tell us of something they’ve witnessed, how do we respond? Can we believe what John says about Jesus? He saw, heard and touched Him after His resurrection. Why would people not believe?
• Why is it not possible for a human—under his own power—to get out of his grave? What did Jesus have? When do we receive the same resurrection power?

We are one family because of Jesus

• Read 1 Jn. Vv 3-4. Why does John say he’s writing this letter? Who is able to have fellowship with the “family of God”? What makes a family? Read 1 Cor. 8:6. How does that verse confirm this passage in John? How do you have fellowship with the world? Why is it not possible? If you are hanging on to a worldly friend in order to save them, why is that not likely to happen? Read 1 Cor. 15:33.
• Why will we not get along with everyone who says they are a Christian? Who does true fellowship exist between? Why does John say he is writing these things?

Hypocrisy destroys the family

• Read 1 Jn. vv 5-6. What is the hardest part of dealing with a person you can’t trust? Why can you not trust someone who lies, exaggerates, and twists the truth? What if they say they are a Christ-follower?
• What is the difference between one who loves the world and one who loves Jesus? Read James 4:4. How does God expect us to live?
• Do you know people who claim to be saved but live a sinful lifestyle? What is wrong with that? What should their life be like if they are truly saved?

Obedience builds the family

• Read v 7. Why is it that some people at church or in your circle of friends are like “soul mates”? Is there anything quite as wonderful as having a friend you can truly count on, no matter how you mess up? How can we have this communion?
• Why is it not okay to assume we can have a sinful lifestyle because He has paid for all our sins? Read Romans 6:1. (Read the entire chapter when you get time!)

So let’s be honest

• Read vv. 8-10. Do you know there are some who believe we can attain sinless perfection in this life? Why is that not true? How does verse 10 check our spirit?
• Why is verse 9 so marvelous for the Christ-follower? What does it mean to “confess” our sins? Do your sins bother you and make you miserable until you confess (agree with God that you have done wrong) them and get right with God again?

 

Undoubtedly, within your family are those who are not saved and whose souls you are very concerned about. Perhaps they follow “another gospel,” perhaps they have rejected Jesus Christ as the only Way to eternal life, or perhaps they have grown lukewarm and nothing you say influences them. According to these verses written by the “Beloved apostle,” you can’t have real fellowship with them until they turn to Christ in confession and repentance.

In this short letter that was meant to be circulated among all the churches at that time, as well as the future, does John help you understand any relationships in your family that are dysfunctional? Perhaps there’s someone whom you seem to irritate no matter what you say or do. Is it feasible they are not right spiritually, and until they get their life straightened out before God, it may not be possible for you to have the love exist between you that you would like? God is light, John says in verse 5, and if someone has darkness in them, how can you expect to have a beautiful relationship?

Perhaps there is someone whom you love, and with whom you desperately want a good relationship. You may have no control over them whatsoever, and the loss of their friendship breaks your heart. However, you know the one in the Person of Jesus Christ, who was foreordained to come and heal the brokenhearted (Psa. 147:3, Isa. 61:1), and Jesus Himself said He had come to heal the brokenhearted (Luke 4:18). You can pray, daily lifting up the one you love, that they will get sick of their sin and desire to turn to Jesus. You will be praying in the Lord’s will, as He says that He does not desire that any should perish, but that all would come to Him in repentance. It may not be in your lifetime, but the seeds you sow will eventually result in a harvest.