THE PATH OF LIFE: GOD’S WAY IS THE BEST WAY

April 26, 2026

Dr. Ben Gutierrez

Hopefully, as you went about your daily life this past week, you were more alert to God’s presence as He interacted with you than ever before. Did you get tired, want to rest, go to bed, get up the next day, plan your daily schedule, think about situations that bothered you, talk to people? Were you aware God was in all of those moments? Our sermon this week is Psalm 139—one of the most beautiful reflections on God’s love for us outside of the Incarnation and the Cross. David said ‘You know when I…’ and then he listed everything we do, and states that God knows and is in all of them. The tragedy is that most people don’t think about Him in each action and therefore seldom say ‘Thank You,’ ‘Please help,’ ‘Give me grace, Lord,’ or myriad other things that can be said to Him. ‘I love You’ is a great place to start! His love for each of us as an individual should be the greatest thing in our lives. This week, strive to build your relationship with Him so that it is better than ever, recognizing His way is the best way.

Focal Passages: Psalm 139, 131:1, Jonah 1:1-3.

GOD KNOWS YOU. Know you are deeply loved by Him!

• Read Psalm 139:1-6. How did David know God so intimately? Do you think he pursued God for the purpose of knowing Him? What was his life like as a shepherd boy, and how did that teach him how God responds when you earnestly seek Him? Read James 4:8a. What does God promise? Do you truly include Him in your daily life?
• How well did David realize God knew him? Discuss these ways in which God knows you and talk about the meaning of the words. What did the words ‘too wonderful’ in verse 6 mean to David?
• If you have a relationship like this with God, what are some of the areas it has changed in your daily walk? Do you think David examined his life often, so that he could pray without having anything in his life to cause God not to hear him (John 9:31)?
• Read Psa. 66:18. What are some sins that can be in your life, causing God to not hear? Read Psalm 131:1. What are some areas that can create a wall between God and you? What does the third one mean? What will your soul have if you rid yourself of everything ungodly as it arises?
• How do you know God loves you personally? What are some scriptures that tell you of His great love? As you live your life knowing He loves you deeply, how do you see your faith grow? As you see He never fails you, how does that help you? As you become more confident that you are His beloved child, what changes do you notice in your life?

GOD IS ALWAYS PRESENT. Don’t withdraw from Him. Draw near to Him: 

• Read Psa. 139:7-12. What verbs does David use in verses 7-9? Why would you, as God’s child, want to flee or run from Him? Are there times when you run mentally, or don’t want to pray—just in case He would say ‘No,’ and you want to do it your way?
• Why did David use this analogy? Could he possibly have written it for those who are running from God? Can you think of any persons in the Bible who ran from God?
• Read Jonah 1:1-3. What was Jonah’s calling? What did God ask him to do? Why did he not want to do it (Jonah 4:2-3)? Did he really think he could run from God? Do you think he knew of David’s Psalms?
• What are some places that David listed that one could try to run from God (but He is everywhere!)? Yet, why are most of the evil actions carried out under the cover of darkness? Do any of these examples in these verses of God’s omnipresence amaze you? Do you think those who often try to kill or vandalize others would think twice if they realized God is around everywhere, all the time?

GOD IS ALL-POWERFUL. Find your safe place with Him:

• Read Psalm 139:13-16. Why is this such a beautiful picture of the hand of God in our birth? Did David understand the scope of what he was saying—this ‘God-breathed’ passage describing God overseeing every cell of your growth in the womb? Read Psalm 23. Is this also a marvelous picture of God leading us to a place of safety and peace? What does He restore our souls from?
• As David reflects on the unbelievable reality of a baby’s beginning in the womb, he gets so filled with praise to God for all His attributes that he starts simply praising Him. Read vv. 14, 17-18. Why was he so jubilant?
• David’s words of praise must remind you that there is never a time nor a place when God’s praise is out of place—you can always let your heart sing. When is the last time His praise was going through your head from one of the worship songs? Read Psalm 34:1. This should be the attitude of your heart at all times. Is it?

Close:  The praise songs before a worship service should always set the tone for our hearts, causing us to think about His love for us, and His guiding hand, knowing we can be certain His way is the best way. Have you noticed how our Sunday morning songs underscore the theme of the sermon? There are songs for every attribute of God’s character, and it is important we understand how mighty He is, how holy, how awesome, how merciful, how … We could go on as long as there is breath in our bodies, and we would never exhaust the adjectives that would apply to our loving Lord. Let us learn them so we can praise Him.

Recently, there were songs that described God as worthy of our praise. (It is even His ‘goodness’ that leads us to salvation–Romans 2:4b). The soloist ended with the words, “HE IS, HE IS, He is worthy of all blessings, and honor, and glory…” The congregation was moved by the majestic words. Are you aware that music brings calmness and peace to our hearts? That alone should show how much we need to praise Him. From the Psalms of David, we see only a fraction of the many times he was moved to praise God. Check these out, memorize them. It is not an exhaustive list, but lift Him up in praise. You’ll never regret it.

Psalm 7:17; 9:1-2, 14; 21:13; 22:22-23, 25-26; 28:7; 30:4, 9, 12; 33:1-2; 34:1; 35:18, 28; 40:3; 42:4-5, 11; 43:4-5; 45:17; 49:10; 49:18; 50:23; 51:15; 52:9; 54:6; 56:4; 57:7, 9; 61:8; 63:3, 5; 65:1; 66:2, 8; 71:6, 8, 14; 74:21; 79:13; 86:12; 106:2; 111:10; 149:1.

By Sandy Day

April 26, 2026

THE PATH OF LIFE: FOLLOWING THE GUIDE

April 12, 2026

Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What a great Easter service we had last week, with almost two hundred people finding the Lord as Savior! The Lord said, “The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few” (Matt. 9:37). Don’t let it be said of your church, “there are few laborers,” for today’s fields are ready. Has revival come to America? It may be too soon to tell, but the evidence is growing. Why? Perhaps because lifestyles have failed the younger people, who want something solid. These young adults have learned that celebrities, movies, lyrics with words that trash Biblical values, or addictions are not made for the tough times in life, for the moments a marriage breaks down, finances fail, children die, or your soul cries out for help. But God is there 24/7. He is with us, guiding us, loving us. Are they learning this? Today’s study gives these new believers a three-step way to find God and be saved: Find Him, Learn of Him, and Rely on His goodness.

Focal Passages:  Psalm 100:1-5, Psalm 16, Ephesians 3:14-19.

Finding your purpose requires Finding Your Source:

• Read Psalm 16:1-4. Before you can seek God, you must decide if you believe that He exists, and if so, do you believe He is the Creator God that the Scripture testifies of? Has someone told you about Him? Read Romans 10:13-15. If you are just learning about God, write down the facts you know about Him, then make sure they align with the Bible. Read John 1:1-5, Col. 1:15-17, Hebrews 1:2. Is this the God you want to know?
• Read John 3:16-17, and James 4:8. There is a huge difference between knowing about God and believing what the Bible teaches about Him. Some questions are basic: Do you believe He made you? Read Psalm 139:1-17 if you need a reminder. Do you want to be at peace with Him? Do you know that your sin separates you from Him?
• Do you know He loves you? Do you know He is all-powerful, all-knowing, and will be with you at all times? Do you desire to know Him? Have you ever asked Him to please save you because of your sins and give you faith? Read 1 John 1:3, Col. 1:13-14. Are you ready to live by faith?
• Read Prov. 3:5-8 and 2:1-5. Are you hungry enough for God that these verses fill your heart? Do you believe that turning your life over to Him will change your life? Read 2 Cor. 5:17. This is stated as a fact—you can believe it!
• Are you willing to forego your messed-up life and any sinful lifestyles? Read 1 John 3:6.

Finding your purpose requires Seeing His Provision: 

• Read Psa. 16:5-6. What are some of the blessings of God that you not only take for granted, but often forget are truly blessings? What would happen if God removed His hand from the world for even a moment?
• What is in your life that you cling to, not willing to let go? Read Psalm 23:2-3,5-6. Does God give us what we need for a beautiful life with Him or what we ask for? Why would He not give us what we want?
• Read John 10:10. Is God more concerned about your material possessions or your heart? Read Ephesians 3:14-19. Is this the life you look forward to as you grow in knowledge of God?

Finding your purpose requires Total Dependence on God:

• Read Psa. 16:7-8. God does not leave you to your own path, but guides you as you follow Him. Read Prov. 3:5-6 and Jeremiah 29:11. Why does He provide help and counsel in the Bible, as you learn to navigate your path?
• Read Isaiah 26:3 and Psa. 37:5. Why are verses like these so needed?
• Read Rom. 8:28. No doubt you have heard someone quote this verse. Why would believers commit this verse—and the ones above—to memory? Why has God given them to people?
• Read James 1:5. Do you always feel wise? God has promised wisdom, and promises not to “upbraid” you for asking! Why do verses that help to keep you on the right path overflow in Scripture?

Finding your purpose requires Discovering Who He Is:

• As we think back upon the three steps, Finding God, Learning about Him, and Following Him through this life, what are the two ways we find out Who He is? Flee to Jesus, stay in His Word, and have conversations with Him constantly—which involves not only talking to Him, but listening for His response. You will soon learn to know His voice.
• As you look for His guidance, you will learn how He leads. Don’t wait until you are old to learn how to follow Him, relying 100% on His best for you. You will never regret it.

Close: 

Perhaps a study aimed more at new believers than those who have grown mature in the faith seems like overkill if you are in the latter group. However, even those who have memorized most of the Bible can find it helpful to review what has become like comfortable clothing as they go about their daily business. And a good way to make sure no one is above helping these new Christ-followers is to be aware that generations today are growing up in a world that older people could not have imagined. Their problems are not the same as those of the last century. They have not had the years of knowing God that many have had.

Solomon admonished in Ecclesiastes that there is nothing new under the sun. Yet, few who were born in the first half of the 1900s—or possibly even the mid-1900s—ever thought they would see this nation shunning the Constitution, not allowing free speech, granting marriages between same-sex couples, or offenses, human trafficking, or Christian persecution that exists on a level today that stuns the hearts of many people. These new believers need to know beyond the shadow of a doubt that God sits in the heavens, “holding it all together” (Col. 1:17). Let us who are older help them know their new Savior! We are never to look down upon anyone because they are just learning what has taken us decades to hold dearer than anything the world has to offer.

By Sandy Day

April 12, 2026

                                                                                                INVITATIONS:
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO TAKE UP YOUR CROSS?

March 29, 2026

Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Over the past several weeks, we have studied instances in which Jesus invited people to follow Him. Some were on the seashore, fishing, others were in trees, or sitting at their places of business. They immediately obeyed. They did not have to prepare themselves, clean the sinful parts of their lives, or tell parents goodbye. They followed. Have you decided to follow Jesus? This past month, our church committed to handing out Bibles to every home in our town. For some, it was the first time they had ever knocked on the doors of strangers in the name of Jesus, and it was somewhat scary. But doing so showed obedience to Matthew 28:19-20! Does anything keep you from following Jesus? Study with us on this last Sunday of our series, as we see Jesus offering you an invitation to follow and learn from Him. You will never regret it.

Focal Passages: Matthew 16:24-26, 1 Corinthians 13:11, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 Samuel 15:22.

Giving up to grow up:

• Read Matthew 16:24. Does it seem as though you usually have to give up something when something better comes (i.e., you need a new car: you get rid of the old one, get the new one, etc.)? In general, do you accept this? If you said yes, then shouldn’t it seem understandable that you must give up the things of the world that hold back your spiritual growth in order to follow Jesus? Is this taking up your cross daily, to follow Him?
• Read 1 Cor. 13:11. Give examples of things from your childhood that you gave up as you aged? An accurate analogy would be eating lots of ice cream and/or candy: as children, our metabolisms were high, and our energy constantly burned up calories. What happens to us as adults if we consume too much sugar and don’t exercise—do we give up the sugar for the sake of the body’s health? What else can you think of?
• What change should others see, as we go from being an unsaved sinner to someone who has repented, believed in Jesus, and asked God for salvation? Read 2 Cor. 5:17, Eph. 4:22-24, Rom. 12:2, Psa. 51:10, James 4:4. Should we now have new desires because we have turned from the things of this world? Why should there always be a change in us?
• Read I Sam. 15:22. Which is God more interested in: our cry to Him for salvation, or our walk in life after we say we believe? How do you see the example in Mark 4:13-20 (the Parable of the Soils) in this? Why did Jesus often say, “Go and sin no more,” after healing someone? Is this taking up our cross daily, so we grow in faith and knowledge of Him?

Giving up to gain more: 

• What are some of the things in this world that we work so hard for? Read Luke 12:34. What do we keep getting more and more of (this will vary by person)? Have you given those things up?
• What are the three temptations in the world that we need to beware of, according to 1 John 2:16? What does Jesus offer when we give up the world for Him in John 10:10?
• What did Solomon give as examples of futility in Ecclesiastes 2, and what was his conclusion in verse 11? Read Luke 12:15. Do we really believe this? Why is it so hard to be content with what we have, rather than always desiring the latest or greatest?

Giving up to gain all:

• Read John 14:1-3 and 1 Cor. 2:9. What does Jesus promise in the passage from John? Can we trust Him? Can He lie? In that passage, what is He preparing for us? How did Paul describe what Jesus had gone to prepare? Can we depend on that? Why?
• Read Matt.14:26. What things are in your house that are priceless to you? Do any of your children want them when you die? If they don’t, what will you do—take the stuff with you?
• Do you own anything that competes with the kingdom of God? If Jesus knocked on your door today, are there things you would want to hide from His eyes? Do you realize He sees those every day as you use/read/look at them? Why would it bother you if He came in the flesh, since the Holy Spirit is in you and your home every day?
• Why does it matter so much what Jesus thinks about you if you ignore His standards in your life? Why do we have to remember that He gave the greatest gift He could—His Son—and yet we often try to get by with the minimum, and ride the fence? Get off the fence and get sold out to God.

The Points:

• Following Jesus is not simply a decision made now for a future destination! It is a decision made now to start walking a different path.
• Following Jesus is the recognition that the greatest accomplishment we can ever achieve is not something the world holds out as valuable. It is in living as a child of God.
• Following Jesus is the only way to accept the hard things of life as a bump in the road rather than considering them to be a roadblock in our faith.

Close: 

In ancient Israel, the Rabbis typically taught younger children to read the Torah. This was their education. At the end of that period, it is alleged that the ones who showed promise in their studies would be tapped on the shoulder, so to speak, as the Rabbi would tell the child, “Follow me.” That meant the child would move up to more schooling, learning more of what the Rabbi knew. He would teach those for a period. When that time ended, those who had excelled above and beyond were again tapped and told to “Follow me” by the Rabbi. They had every right to hope they, too, could someday perhaps be a Rabbi. As you see that practice, it is much easier to visualize Jesus walking along the shore, calling to Andrew, Peter, John, and James, “Follow Me!” They would know they would learn from the Teacher, and one day be like Him. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we, too, would grasp that by following Jesus, we will be just like Him—or, as the disciples, people could tell we have been with Jesus? It doesn’t have to wait until heaven, for we can grow in our faith every day. Oh, that it would happen as we learn from Him daily!

By Sandy Day
March 29, 2026

INVITATIONS: BE FRUITFUL

March 15, 2026

Pastor Matt Willmington

Every area of our lives seems to undergo tests when you think about it. For example, our health—especially as we age—is often subjected to a battery of tests to determine if something is wrong. Our driving skills are tested to ensure we are reliable drivers before a new license is issued. Kids endure testing throughout their education, and the military gives frequent tests. However, one area is often overlooked: our spiritual well-being. In 2 Cor. 11:31-32, Paul tells believers that if they would periodically test themselves, God would not have to discipline them. It is true for us today: by frequent testing, we keep ourselves ‘up-to-speed’ in areas that matter so much. What tests would we apply? Join us and learn!

Focal Passages: Genesis 1:28; Galatians 5:22-23; Psalm 128:2-4; John 15:5, 15:1-17; Colossians 1:6, 10; Romans 1:13; Philippians 1:22, Matt. 28:19-20.

Which type of Christian are you?   Personal questions to start an examination of your life:

• Busy: Are you a busy person? Do you expend energy all day long on various jobs? What are some issues you notice from this schedule? Does burnout happen often? Do you get much joy from the hard work, or is it the ‘same-ol’-same-ol’? What can you do to change? Most importantly, are there eternal consequences that will result from your efforts?
• Productive: Do others see you as a productive person? What are some of your strengths? Who benefits from your efforts, others, or mostly yourself? Do you feel success as you finish projects? Are there eternal results in your energetic lifestyle? Are there areas of your life where the energy is made up of “dead plants”? Do you want to change? How can you?
• Fruitful: Do you have a lifestyle of bearing spiritual fruit? Does this lifestyle bring you joy? Do your jobs/service/ministry have eternal fruit? Do you regularly ensure your growth as a believer? If you see an area in life with a problem, are you quick to change? How do you usually deal with unwholesome activities or work? Are you self-disciplined?

We have an invitation: “Come, be FRUITFUL”:

• Read John 15:5. What is meant by ‘bearing fruit’ in our Christian walk? Go to Gen. 1:28 9:1; and 35:11: did God mean, ‘Be fruitful and multiply’ physically or spiritually? How do we intentionally prepare ourselves to bear fruit spiritually, as followers of Jesus?
• Read Matt. 28:19-20. Speaking spiritually, how do we bear ‘offspring’ as believers? Do we only need to tell how He has changed us? (When we receive great news, we want everyone to know; why, then, are we slow to say that we received salvation from Christ and eternal life?) Read Gal. 5:22-23. Besides witnessing to the unsaved, how else can we share our fruit? Is this what makes a Fruitful lifestyle?
• How important is it to you that you see your relationship with God be more loving, obedient, and deeper each year? What do you do to ensure this increases each year?

The Father gardens, Jesus nourishes: 

• Read John 15:2, 6. Why does God the Father need to prune believers? If you prune some of your house plants, what are you trying to accomplish?
• If a branch (person) does not remain in Him, what does He do?
• How does Jesus nourish the plant? What is some evidence that indicates the plant is healthy?

He PRUNES so you’ll PRODUCE:

• What are the four types of branches on a plant? (Healthy=Best Fruit; Good but not vital= may be sapping nourishment that should go to the best branches; Sick=isn’t going to improve; Dead=taking up space needed for the best branches.) Which one are you?
• How does He do the pruning? From our perspective, what does that involve?
• What are some things that need to be taken out of our lives? Why do we justify those things that are in gray areas? How can they be hurting us? What should we do about them?

Remain to Reproduce:

• Read John 15:4-10. How many times does Jesus say we are to ‘remain’ (abide, etc.) in the Father, and in Him, in this passage? Discuss this for a few minutes.
• Is it imperative that we truly remain in Christ every minute of every day? Read 1 Cor. 5:6b-7. If we live for Christ twenty-three hours a day, and live like the world the twenty-fourth hour, what is the result? If a branch has no vine, can it have fruit?
• What are some results of abiding in Him at all times?

Fruit PROVES discipleship and GLORIFIES the Father:

• Read John 15:9-17. If fruit is being produced in your spiritual life (and therefore physical), what does that prove? If you are abiding in Him daily, how does that bring Him glory?
• What is the common thread between love and obedience? Where does joy come in? What are some other relational nouns given in this passage?
• What are we supposed to do with the love that we receive from the Father?

PERSONAL fruit results in MINISTRY fruit.

• Read Luke 10:38-42. Was Martha a busy person? Did she think her busyness in getting the meal on the table was more necessary than sitting with Mary? What did Jesus tell her? Are there times when sitting at the feet of Jesus (church, a Life Group, etc.) outweighs necessary busyness? Ask yourself: will we starve, or (go without clothes, or… ) _________.
• Read Prov. 21:5. Does the wealth earned from hard work justify the time that must be given to it? What if it’s a ministry? Can a Christ-follower accidentally get too involved in ministry that their family is left to the ‘crumbs’? How can one balance life and ministry?
• What are the advantages of having a life of service to other people?

Close: This is a heavy topic, isn’t it? Trying to see your daily life through Jesus’ eyes will help!

By Sandy Day

March 15, 2026                                                

INVITATIONS: FOLLOW FOR THE WIN

March 01, 2026

Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What an exciting time in the life of congregants when their church is on a mission to get the word of God into the hands of all people in their town! When such a plan is organized and carried out, it is not for the goal of growing a church or increasing its numbers, but simply to get the Bible into every home, where real people are dealing with life. It is mind-boggling to see how fast life flies by: suddenly, the young adult is middle-aged, then, ‘overnight,’ a senior citizen. Everyone says, ‘where did time go?” Getting older isn’t allowed for everyone, as many families know. Yet in the end, whether one is poor or rich, young or old, learned or illiterate, at the end of life, there are only two options: eternal life in heaven because one followed Jesus Christ, or eternal life in hell because one disdained the love of God and chose to live without Him. Have you decided to follow Jesus?

Focal Passage: Matthew 4:18-22.

The call was clear:

• Read Matthew 4:18-22. Have you ever considered the simplicity of the words of Jesus, as He called those men whom He had chosen, “Follow Me!” How hard did they think it could be? Read John 6:65-66. Did His words have to fit their pre-determined ideas?
• What would you say if someone asked you, what do we have to do to be saved’? You can answer with two words: Follow Jesus. Would they understand?
• Did Jesus say exactly what He wanted them to do? Did they obey?
• When Jesus called James and John, what else did they leave besides their work? Do you get the sense that perhaps within the family, they had discussed Jesus as a subject?

The call was visionary: 

• Why do you think Jesus said He would teach them to fish for men? Do you think they realized His concern was for “people,” even though most of the citizens had believed the Messiah would come as a military leader?
• What is a visionary? Who was the best example we knew in Central Virginia? What were some of Dr. Falwell’s strengths? Did he live to see his faith that God would do great things through him ‘made sight’? (Yes!)
• What type of person likes to fish? Why is patience important? How much control does a fisherman have over the fish? What are some other character qualities of a fisherman? How do the same traits make an excellent Christ-follower?
• What are some other ways visionaries (who have a gift for looking toward a better future) can inspire or instill others with their courage?

The call was immediate:

• As the Pastor used the example this morning of young people telling him they have been called by God to serve Him, when did he say it begins? Is that what we saw about the men Jesus called? Did He want them to come with Him at some date in the future or at that moment?
• Read Matt. 8:18-22. Was Jesus willing to let the young disciple (NOT one of the apostles) go back to stay with his father until he died? How often do we feel as if God wants us to minister to someone, but we decide to wait until later? Does that please Him?
• As Jesus urges us to do something for Him, who needs to have the abilities? Will God enable us to do what He wants, when He calls? Does He desire to bring glory to us, because of the manner in which we’ll do this? Who (only) should get the glory?
• What is He calling all of us to do? Hopefully, you answered “Be Faithful.” That is all He asks. When He says, Follow Me, then get in the boat! You don’t have to know where the fish are, just obey.

Our Mission:

• Know Him better! Do you ever stop and examine your life, asking, “Do I love Jesus more this year than last? Do I serve Him more quickly this year? Do I know Him better than I did last year? If you see growth, keep going. If not, change whatever is wrong.
• Serve Him faithfully. Jesus isn’t waiting for you to be perfect in order to be used; He is asking that you say, “Yes, Lord,” when He calls. He looks for a willing heart and an obedient spirit—then He’ll use you!
• Let others in on the secret. There’s another way to say that: Tell everyone why you are a changed person! If we go, see, or experience, something exciting, aren’t we all about telling others so they can have the same excitement? Then why not Jesus? Isn’t He worth telling others how wonderful He is?

Close: 

Incredible! We have just finished the second month of 2026—yet, didn’t we just have Christmas? Anyone over the age of eighty can tell you it feels like ‘yesterday’ that they were forty-five. Life flies by at the speed of light. That is why it is so important to take life seriously, Jesus at His Word, older people sharing their experiences, and realize that eternal life is at the end of this book you are reading so quickly! (Metaphorically speaking!)

As you will find when you face death, it will not matter how many homes you lived in, whether you didn’t have to look at the price tag when you saw something you liked, who called you their friend, how fast you drove your first car, and zillions of other interesting facts. If you never had time to follow Jesus, you missed out on the number of times He helped you, the times death came near but missed you, the times He said ‘I love you,’ the times relief flowed through you when He forgave a sinful action—not to mention eternity with Him, sharing the place He has prepared for His children. Are you aware that He has promised us a place so wonderful that nothing we can imagine, or dream, will even come close? But what you will know is that the environs of hell are filled with Satan, his fallen angels, evil men and women, and those who hate God. Hold out your hands like a pair of scales and weigh them. Only a fool says there is no God. Beg Him for wisdom.

By Sandy Day

March 01, 2026

INVITATIONS: COME AND SEE

February 15, 2026

Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell

February is flying by quickly, and March will be here in a heartbeat. Our church is preparing to knock on every door in Lynchburg and the suburbs, giving residents a Bible. That shouldn’t be a difficult challenge—but still, some find it intimidating. As the pastor taught today, all who are saved and enjoy a loving relationship with God through Jesus Christ should be excited about that bond. They should feel a constant desire to share Jesus with others, so those people, too, can enjoy such a relationship. We see evangelism in the Gospels spread as people realized that Jesus Christ was the long-awaited Messiah Israel had been looking for. As person after person met Jesus, they would run to friends, saying, “Come, and see! We have found the Messiah!” Charles Spurgeon once said, “You have never truly found Jesus if you do not tell others about Him.” We are constantly excited about movies, books, or places to dine; shouldn’t Jesus be a topic of excitement we all wish to share?

Focal Passage: John 1:35-51.

The Invitation to See:

• Read John 1:35-39a. When John (the Baptist) saw that Jesus was coming near, what did he say? What did John say to his disciples? Two of them acted on John’s words. What does that mean? What would have happened if they had glanced up, then walked away? What happens when no action is taken?
• What did two of John’s disciples do? Do you think John felt jealous? Read John 3:30. What did he mean?
• What did Jesus say to the two? How did they answer? Did Jesus extend an invitation to them? When Jesus invited them to His ‘home,’ did they again have to take responsibility? What were their choices? Do we have the same choices today?
• Can you think of a time recently when you pointed out someone nearby? Did you sound like Eeyore, or were you full of excitement? Since you know that Jesus is the Messiah, the One who saves, does your life draw people to Him?

Seeing the Obvious: 

• Read John 39b-42. What do you think the conversation with Jesus was like? If you were in the same circumstance, can you imagine asking Jesus questions? Read Isaiah 1:18. Surely our prayers should be the same as when Andrew and the second disciple talked with Jesus for those hours, but are they?
• When Andrew finished the conversation with Jesus, where did he immediately go? Why was his brother his first thought? Did Peter return with Andrew to Jesus’ house?
• How do you see this responsibility: John the Baptist points out Jesus to Andrew and a second disciple. They go to Jesus. Andrew goes to get Peter, and they return to Jesus. Peter and Andrew are now 16.7% of the group of His disciples. Why is it important for you to tell one person to “Look (to Jesus)!”?

Seeing the Miraculous:

• Read Jn. 1:43-51. What did Jesus say to Philip? Was that a command or an invitation? What was Philip’s relationship to Nathanael? What kind of conversation did Jesus have with Nathanael when Philip brought him to Jesus?
• How did Nathanael react when Jesus gave him a short biography of his life? What did Jesus mean when He said that Nathanael was an Israelite in whom there was no deceit? Why is it hard to imagine a person so authentic that they have no deceit?

TAKEAWAYS:

Be Ready to See!   Be Ready to Listen!   Be Ready to Act!

Close: 

Can you even begin to imagine sitting in a room, listening to Jesus? If you were with Him, watching and listening, believing Him to be the Creator God come in the flesh, would you freeze up? That scenario is beyond imagination! Yet, when we pray, shouldn’t we be conscious of His deity, His God-characteristics? To understand He is willing to ‘reason’ together, shouldn’t we know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He has known us from eternity past (Jer. 1:5), and He knows everything about us: our thoughts, intentions, actions, sins—everything (Psa. 139). He is with us at all times; He is everywhere, surrounding us with a bubble of love, protection, guidance—yet often we fight Him, wanting to go our own way, or do our own thing. Can we learn to relax in His love? Can we love Him so much as our Father that we want to share Him with everyone?

An English pastor, John Gill, writing in the eighteenth century, said a Syriac dictionary x stated Nathanael’s mother had placed her baby boy under a fig tree to hide him when Herod’s men came to kill the baby boys in Bethlehem when Christ was born. If so, Nathanael would have known Christ’s omniscience instantly, as surely his mom would have told him the story many times. If this is true, it explains Nathanael’s immediate reaction of praise and worship.

What joy it must have been to Andrew that Peter followed him back to meet Jesus! As the years passed, how glad Andrew must have been that he had brought Peter to Jesus, as he saw him preaching and helping lead the newly born church. Nathanael, though questioning whether something good could come out of Nazareth, went with Philip. How wonderful that was for Philip. And it should be for us, as well, if we led someone to the Lord, only to see them become a servant of God, impacting His Kingdom on earth! As we knock on doors in our town, may we have the joy to pass on our relationship to the King of Kings.

By Sandy Day

February 15, 2026

EXTRAORDINARY FAITH:

A FAITH THAT MOVES MOUNTAINS

February 01, 2026

Senior Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Do you ever wish your faith were so firm you could literally move a mountain if it were necessary? Possibly it is that strong, but perhaps your mountain wasn’t one made of dirt. Maybe it was moved when you and your spouse decided to pay your home off ten years early. Sometimes your mountain is a strong-willed child who gave you fits for the first twenty years—but you hung in there, disciplining in kindness, training in righteousness, and in their twenties or thirties, they rewarded your heart by serving in a church, going on short-term mission projects, and having a godly home. You moved a mountain of will, didn’t you? But moving a mountain, as Christ illustrated in Matt. 17:20 means there is an eternal reason why it needs to be moved. God does all things for a reason—He does it because the result will justify the action. As the pastor said today, maybe the faith of the disciples was weak because they had part of their focus on their own ability to heal the demon-possessed boy. Our faith is in Christ, who can do anything, and we can do anything through Him; but the glory of the heavy lifting all goes to Christ. ‘Whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.”

Focal Passage: Hebrews 11:39-40, Matthew 17:14-20.

The doubts of the faithful:

• Read Matthew 17:19. How is your faith different from the faith the disciples had when they were with Jesus? Do you think having the Bible in its entirety gives us an advantage over the people who saw Jesus performing miracles? Explain your answer.
• Why did Jesus reprimand the disciples for their ‘little’ faith? Do His words seem harsh? Keep in mind, they had tried to heal the boy, but couldn’t; if their heart attitude was wrong, would His words make more sense? What did He say was needed for this problem?
• In our lives, how often do we attempt to exercise faith without proper preparation? When has a ministry been so important to you that you fasted prior to acting? When/If you fast, how encompassing is it? Do you commit to leaving off something that is not a problem?
• What are some areas where we allow doubt to creep in? Is our doubt ever about Jesus’ ability, or is it about ourselves? Does it ever get trapped by our thinking, “perhaps He does not want me to do this”? Again, what parameters must be in place for our faith to move a mountain and for it to be justified?
• When an idea or ‘something’ comes into your mind to do for someone, what are the reasons why you don’t carry it through? What if it’s from God? How can you tell?

The focus of our future: 

• Read Matt. 17:20a. Do you ever ask yourself if you are further along the path of knowing God better now than you did a year ago? If you answered ‘no’ to that question, what would be the obvious next step? Why is that something every Christian should do as a self-examination?
• There are other questions that you need to ask yourself: How important is God to you? Do you care whether you know Him better each year? Which do you spend the most time doing: prayer, Bible reading, or serving specific ministries? Busyness does not necessarily reflect a greater faith.

The faith that changes everything:

• Read Heb. 11:6 and Matt. 17:20 b. When the disciples saw they could not cast out the demon, what attitude do you think they showed when they asked Jesus why they couldn’t? Would it have been humbling to ask this? When Jesus replied, would they have been ashamed or embarrassed—or something else?
• Have you ever had a moment when you failed? If Jesus responded to you that your faith is small, what would be your immediate desire? How can you take small steps to begin building a life of faith that can move a mountain?
• What are the three main ways we can intentionally fill our hearts and minds with a mountain of faith?

Close: 

We often forget God promises He will never leave us. It is through intentional training of our minds that we reach a point where an awareness of His presence permeates our days. Why is this important? Because if we can go hours without thinking of Him, what were we doing during that time? How are we walking with Him constantly if we can forget Him for long periods? An analogy might be caring for a little child who can be mobile during both day and night. There are not many minutes in those twenty-four-hour periods that you literally forget you have the child.

Job’s story is crucial to understanding how limited our faith is. He lived his life with a testimony before God that he was ‘blameless.’  In fact, if we were as perfect in our lifestyle as Job was, we would probably pat ourselves on the back. Our faith—we would think—is rock solid. Yet, when a time of testing came, Job failed. Perhaps ‘failed’ is too strong a word to use, but after chapters in which Job spoke of God deserting him, leaving him on his own, God initiates a time of ‘reasoning together.’ And it revealed Job had only scratched the surface of faith. Read Job 38-42 (often), to remind yourself how your wisdom pales beside God! His omnipresence, omniscience, and omnipotence—His all-presence, all-knowing, and all-powerful characteristics—cause us to realize how very little we truly understand God. Our faith has to begin with the small things: knowing He will never leave us—and believing that. Knowing we can’t go anywhere that He is not there, nor can we mess up so badly that He can’t fix it, or understanding His faithfulness to us. Take the small steps faithfully. Believe the promises wholly. He will never fail you, and you will grow in faith.

By Sandy Day

February 01, 2026

EXTRAORDINARY FAITH:

UNLOCKING A LIFE OF FAITH

January 18, 2026

Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Have you been impressed with the saints who showed “Extraordinary Faith”? Have you been encouraged that people who had no great skills—and, in fact, some were quite the opposite of one it seemed God might choose—did something so great that God showed up in a way that astounded everyone? For instance, Rahab, a harlot, ended up in the lineage of Christ because of her faith. The three Israeli youths, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah—Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego— would not worship a statue of Nebuchadnezzar and so were thrown into a fiery furnace. Yet Jesus stepped into it with them—and none of them even smelled of fire afterward! Does God do things like this today? Scripture says, ‘He is the same yesterday, today, and forever,’ therefore, the answer is ‘Yes.’ Will He do something like that for you? If He desires to. He will do whatever His holy will pleases. But, will your faith be so extraordinary that He would want to? We have to obey Him through the small fires first. Are you willing to have an extraordinary faith?

Focal Passage: Hebrews 11:1-35-12:3.

Door #1—Faith in the best of times:

• Read Hebrews 11:1. Give all the definitions of faith that you know. Is ‘faith’ a simple word? Read Luke 9:23 and Rom. 12:1. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, what are you basing your faith on? Are you ready to deny yourself to please God?
• What are you claiming you will do with your life? Why is this like the covenant of marriage people make? After making a commitment to Jesus Christ, why is it necessary to rid yourself of any ‘weights and sin’ that might linger? You must:

Close and lock the door of disbelief: 

• Read Heb. 11:30. What point is the writer trying to make here? If Israel had drawn swords and killed those of Jericho, who could have claimed the victory? Did God leave any doubt about who won this battle?
• What part of your life harbors some doubt about God’s ability?

Close and lock the door of cultural confusion:

• Read Heb. 11:31. What do you think of when you hear the term ‘cultural confusion’? Are you familiar enough with the Bible to feel comfortable who you find yourself among? What would you say would be the main attitude you need to project?
• Read Matt.15:21-28. Why did Jesus ignore the Canaanite woman (vs.23)? What was His testimony of her to the residents of Tyre and Sidon? What did the disciples learn? What did He teach about the Gentiles here?

Close and lock the door of fear:

• 11:32a. Who does not have fear of something? What are some of the fears you have?
• Read 2 Tim.1:71, 1 Jn. 4:18, and 1 Pet. 5:8. Where does fear come from? How do you overcome the fear in your life? Knowing that fear comes from Satan should give you what kind of desire? What are the three weapons God gives you to fight fear with?

Close and lock the door of sin:

• Read Heb.11:33-35a. What was special about these ‘witnesses’? Read vs. 34b, c again. Did God say some of these were weak? How were they made strong? At what point did they become strong? Is that how you often feel (weak)?
• Once you have a victory of faith, will you continue to persevere? Why can you always trust God to do the impossible?

Door #2—Faith in the worst of times:

• Read Heb. 11:35b. In the verses over the past three weeks, you have heard the victories. What happens in this verse? Was their faith any weaker than the others’? Why is it possible that it could even have been greater?
• Read Luke 13:1-5. What is Jesus teaching here? How does that reflect the way you have a tendency to think today? Yet, what do you think about a ‘good’ person dying, when you know multitudes of evil-doers who seem blessed? What did Pastor Charles say about ‘why bad things happen to good people’? Read Heb. 11:39-40.
• Read Job 13:15. Can you imagine going through testing as Job did? Yet did he sin with his mouth (1:22)? Was Job willing to let God take his life (13,15)? Can we say this verse and mean it?
• How would it have been easy for Daniel or the three friends’ story to have ended differently? Will we ever know why God chooses good endings for some, death for others?

Door #3—Faith for a lifetime:

• Read Heb. 12:1-3. Once you have accepted Christ, what must you do? What is the first thing to remove? Why? What is the second? Can you do that? Will there be witnesses yelling for you to make it as you cross into Paradise?
• What is the third? What will you learn about Jesus when you die? Do you want to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant”? How can that happen?

TAKEAWAYS:

• It is up to us to do what is possible and leave the impossible to God.
• Faith that requires God to act is the greatest faith there is.

Close:  There is only one way to make it through this life: keep getting back up when we fall, then putting one foot in front of the other as we run that race. Don’t ever quit. It will all be worth it when we cross the last hurdle, caught in the arms of everyone who rejoices as we enter Paradise.

By Sandy Day

January 18, 2026

GLORIA: JOSEPH—THE QUIET WORSHIPER

December 21, 2025

 Scott Bullman

It is not unusual for the Bible to include characters about whom we know little or nothing in its histories For example, Thaddaeus, one of the twelve apostles, is mentioned twice, in John 14:22 and Acts 1:13. Yet this man faithfully followed Jesus as His apostle for three years. He was still with the other ten in Acts 1:26, after Judas had died. Another example was Nicanor, one of the seven deacons chosen in Acts 6:5. This is the only time his name is mentioned. Yet, he served the position of ‘servant’ in the young church faithfully. Today, we look at Joseph, whom God chose as Jesus’s earthly father. Joseph was a good, compassionate man, and God would have picked only the best to raise His Son, Jesus. Join us today as we study the life of Joseph, as we are able to garner much on this amazing man.

Focal Passages: Matthew 1:18-25, Luke 2:8-20.

The Miracle of Jesus:

• Read Luke 1:26-38 and Matthew 1:18. Put yourself in Mary’s place. How could she have told her parents she was pregnant with the Son of God? If you were Mary’s mother, would you have told the rest of your village that your daughter was pregnant with the Messiah? Who would have believed this? How old was Mary (mol)?
• Had you been Joseph, would you have doubted Mary? What were his options to handle his betrothed’s pregnancy? Read Matt. 1:19-21. Is it any wonder he wanted to ‘put her away privately’?
• Do you think he was grieving in his heart? Do you think he was praying fervently? What would it have been like to be visited by an angel? Read Matt. 1:24. How is this an example of how God is ‘never late’ when we need Him?
• How do you think Joseph felt once the angel had told him to marry Mary? Do you think he woke his parents to tell them?
• In Luke 2:4, why was it special that Joseph was of the house and lineage of David? Read Isa. 9:7. Was this the fulfillment of that promise?

The Birth of Jesus:

• Read Luke 2:4-7. What do you envision when you think of Mary and Joseph in a stable?

Born in the year 100 AD, Justin Martyr, a native of Bethlehem, wrote that a cave had been marked out shortly after Jesus was born and was actually venerated as the place of His birth. Later, the historian Origen confirmed that the site traditionally visited as the cave where Jesus was born was indeed correct. Only God knows.

• What are some pros and cons of God choosing a cave over a home?
• Who had been the only ones who received the message of the birth of Jesus? Does it fit the narrative that God would have kept the birth lowkey especially in such a small town?
• What might have been the reasons why God said little about Joseph’s life?

Qualities and Lessons of Obedience in the silent Joseph:

Look for character qualities of Joseph in the following passages.

• Read Matt. 1: 18-20. What two qualities showed he was a man who did not want to jump ahead of God, and who thought before he acted? 1:20-23. Did anyone mention patience? How did Joseph obey the word of God in Psa. 27:14 to be patient while waiting for the Lord to act? Read vv. 24-25. How was God so intimate with Joseph that He filled his being? Could this have been the Holy Spirit? How did God communicate with him in times of travail? How quickly did Joseph obey?
• Read Matt. 2:13-15. In the months since Joseph saw the first angel, did he remain steadfast? Can you imagine his love, waking Mary to leave their home and goods to flee to Egypt? How had God provided for their living expenses? What traits were here?
• Read vv. 19-21. A new dream—perhaps only months or one year later. Was Joseph still faithfully carrying out the job God had called him to? Did he again show instant obedience to God’s orders? Read vv. 22-23. What quality did he show here? He had obviously thought through scenarios that could harm Jesus and chosen the one he felt was safest. How could his obedience, coupled with grim responsibility, have been a strength to Mary and baby Jesus during these times of uncertainty?
• Read Luke 2: 1-5. Was Joseph a man who submitted to the governing authorities? Why did he take Mary with him, as it was almost time for Jesus to be born? How did this show that he did not shirk responsibility?
• Read vv. 15-17. When the shepherds visited the stable and worshiped Jesus, what thoughts would have gone through Joseph’s head? Would he have seen this as confirmation that what he and Mary had been told by the angel almost a year ago, now being certified by lowly shepherds? Read vs. 33. What does it mean to ‘marvel’? Acts of God that reinforce His will can astonish us. By now, Joseph had to have been entirely on board with God, trusting Him to raise this Child. How much God loved Joseph!
• Read vv. 41-50. What quality traits did Joseph show in searching for Jesus? Do you think he could have been wringing his hands, like, “I have just lost the SON OF GOD!” That’s probably how we would act today—somehow, Joseph gives assurance that he was relying on God to keep Jesus from harm.

Close:

We have all had a Joseph in our lives, haven’t we? Someone who did not need to take the spotlight each time a conversation came up, but would listen carefully, and if he or she had anything to say, it would be pertinent to the discussion. Their trust in God has been solid.

Can you imagine how picky God would have been in choosing the man who would guard, mentor, and raise His Son? Solomon wrote in Proverbs, ‘The glory of children is their father.’ Even though there were not as many homes in Joseph’s day without a father as there are now, God knew the Child would need to know how to be an adult man. Joseph would train Him well. What a mantle of responsibility, love, and faith Joseph exhibited during his years on earth.

By Sandy Day

December 21, 2025

EXTRAORDINARY FAITH: FAITH CHANGES EVERYTHING

January 04, 2026

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

When you wake in the mornings, are your first thoughts of God? He woke you so you could have an entire day, aware that He loves you more than can be comprehended. He wants you to have a beautiful day, turning each care—as it comes up—over to Him so that He can guide you through it. You are not to worry, because, after all, He has said not to, but also because you are choosing to trust Him with the faith Abraham had when he took Isaac to the mountain as a sacrifice. Was Abraham scared silly? No. He knew God was going to do something amazing. Do you want a faith that solid? Do you want to live your life with such an extraordinary faith in God that you can take the things Satan throws at you with the knowledge that God is going to turn them into beautiful victories? He has told us how we may. And while the answer is easy to memorize, carrying it out will require a willingness to let go of some of the ‘weights’ that pull us down. Living our lives while abiding in Christ at all times will enable us to develop a faith that pleases God.

Focal Passage: Hebrews 11:1-13.

What is faith?

• Read Hebrews 11:6. Although this verse doesn’t give us a definition of what faith is, it tells us what we will lack if we do not have faith. What kind of faith are we talking about in this verse? Are you currently satisfied with the level of faith you have?
• Why would true Biblical faith not exist unless the person believes in God? How do you view God? Do you view Him in line with the way Scripture shows His characteristics?
• How do you see yourself in relation to Christ? How does your level of faith compare with your obedience to God? What areas show a weakness (if any)?
• Read Heb. 11:1-3. What is this definition of faith, in today’s vernacular? What does faith mean to you? What do we Christians hope for? What are some reasons we have hope? What would it take for you to lose your hope? What is your hope based on?
• Who are some of the most courageous people in the Bible who showed their faith in God was so strong that they did not waver? What causes us to have times when our attitude slips, and how can we have fewer of those times? What do you do when that happens?
• How can we train our minds to be more focused on Jesus Christ daily?

What is the benefit of faith?

• Read Heb. 11:13-16. Did the people who were listed in the “Hall of Faith” of Hebrews 11 see their hope before they died? What did Scripture mean by saying they saw the things that were promised ‘from a distance’? Why did they consider themselves to be foreigners and temporary residents of the earth? What did they call home?
• What are some benefits that you have because your faith is in God? Are you able to verbalize to others why you have faith in God?
• Does the wonder of a relationship with God often fill you with praise? Do you thank God for His blessings frequently?

How do I live by faith?

• Read Heb. 11:6. What are some ways in which we can live by faith? What are some daily evidences that you are living by faith?
• How can we train ourselves to depend on God to fix our problems, and not jump in when one appears, as we try to fix it ourselves? How can we make this choice continually?
• What are the steps to learn to live an extraordinary faith?

Realize the importance:

• Read vs. 6a. How can we make walking with God every day our priority?

Recognize our responsibility:

• Read vs. 6b. How do we draw near to God? Read James 4:8a. Is this a promise to us? Is it conditional? What will happen when you draw near to God, and He to you?

Resolve to believe—no matter what:

• Read vs. 6c. What can you do when you are having a tough day? Will you continue to stand firm?

Close: 

Do you really desire an extraordinary faith? How do you abide in Jesus 24/7? Recently, we studied that we are the branches and Christ is the vine, and as we abide in Him, we will bear much fruit. That fruit is a testimony that we are putting God first in our lives, holding tightly to Him at all times, knowing He will always be with us as He guides us safely through each conflict. Testing will come, but as we persevere, He will take care of us.

Each day, we are buffeted by the world with its lack of morals, the cursing that never seems to cease, those who are filled with anger, and so much more. These people often cause our spirits to groan in reality, yet we are supposed to love them. It’s hard, isn’t it? But we’re not trying to please the world—we’re trying to please God, who has asked us to be His witnesses. We’re not to mold ourselves into the world, but be separate from it because we’re sojourners. We have been placed at this time and in this location in the world to impact it with the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are committed to living for Him and Him alone. One day, when our troubles are over and we have finished with faithfulness, we will move to the home that He has lovingly prepared for us. It will be worth it all—as the song says—when we see Jesus.

By Sandy Day

January 04, 2026                                                        

GLORIA: THE MOMENT THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING

December 07, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The Christmas season! The most magical time of the year. Watch any child in a shopping mall, and see them mesmerized by the decorations, or older folks, whose memories of Christmas still reflect the wonder of the season from their early years. What a shame that many today turn a deaf ear to Jesus, who is the reason for the season. Would that they could experience the amazement of a supernatural birth by a young girl who knew without a doubt she had never ‘known a man.’ Or a stand-in father who Gabriel, the Archangel, told that his fiancée was pregnant with the Great I AM. Do you know how the shepherds trembled hearing the message of the birth of the Savior who would offer salvation to the world? Or the wise men who brought gifts to keep the small family through many months, possibly years, without worry for their sustenance? Join us for our new series, Gloria, as we celebrate Christmas as the coming of Jesus to the earth, bringing the good news of the Kingdom of God and salvation.

Focal Passage: Luke 2:8-20.

The power of fear:

• Read Luke 2:8-9. All of us have had a time when fear rendered us unable to move. Can anyone share such a moment? Where were shepherds in the hierarchy of people groups in the Middle East at the time of Jesus? Why were they of a low reputation? As you think of David, many years before Jesus, do you think of him as “low class”? Why not?
• What would it have been like for you to be sitting in a field in the night, babysitting your flock (or herd, or…) when an angel appeared before you? Do you think they asked each other if they saw it? Why would they have been afraid? Do you see this fear as terrifying, or ‘to flee’? Is it possible you would be stunned, but in anticipation, rather than fear? What do you imagine as “the glory of the Lord” that shone around the shepherds?
• One of the meanings of this fear is to be so fearful you don’t run—perhaps too scared to move. What happened when they found themselves too petrified to move?

The power of listening:

• Read Luke 2:10-12. Why did the angel start by saying not to fear? Was that needed at this time? Would they have listened? Would you have been curious in the same situation?
• What were three major things the angel said in verse 10? In verse 11, what was the news the Jews had waited for years to hear? Does anyone know if Eve had known of a coming Messiah? Read Gen. 3:15 if you need to confirm this.
• In verse 12, do you think the shepherds understood they were to search for the Child? Archaeologists believe there may have been only a few baby boys alive in Bethlehem at this time, and probably no other newborns. Definitely no other newborns were in a stable! What do you think the shepherds did after hearing the message?
• Do you believe these shepherds were knowledgeable of the Messianic prophecies and knew just how special they were to have received the news?

The power in a promise:

• Read Luke 2:13-14. Can you share any other time in Scripture that an angelic host, a heavenly host, or an army of chariots appeared in the sky? Do you imagine the total as a few or myriads? What were they saying?
• What happened to the fear of the shepherds as the angel host started praising? Was this worship?
• Do you think they felt as if they had just witnessed a little bit of what heaven would be like?

The power of obedience:

• Read Luke 2:15-17. Would you have loved to have overheard the conversation among the shepherds? How do you know that they believed what they heard was true? Who did they credit for being chosen to hear this message?
• Did they take a long time to decide to go to Bethlehem? What did they find? What did they do when they left the stable?
• Was this just ‘another night in the life of a shepherd’ or was this a life-changing event? Did the acceptance of the truth that Jesus loves you change your life?

The power of our story:

• Read Luke 2:18-20. Why did people listen to the shepherds as they told their story of finding the newborn King of Kings? What was Mary pondering? Do you realize that this story from the shepherds verified to her that her experience really was from God?
• What is the difference between the story of the shepherds and our story?

TAKE AWAY:

Every one of us who has accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior has heard the same message—though granted, not in the same way—as the shepherds. The declaration of the good news of the Gospel has had to be ‘preached’ to each of us, as in Romans 10:14. Whether we heard, or read, or were told a story, we received the Word. We heard, we believed, and we gave our lives to Christ to be transformed into the likeness of His glory (2 Cor. 10:18).

Now we have a story. Our story is not like anyone else’s. It is the product of our experiences—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and makes it unique. The worse we were, the more glory goes to God, because people who knew us might have said, ‘I thought they were too bad for God ever to save them.’ What a testimony those people can share!

Tell your story. It is only your changed life that makes your story one that will touch the right heart, when someone can relate to your overcoming whatever past you had and your turning to the Lord. Don’t let someone go to hell because you keep your story to yourself.

By Sandy Day

December 07, 2025                                                                         

CULTIVATE: BE WEIRD, BE BLESSED

November 16, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

As we continue our November study of the Fruit of the Spirit, we are learning that we cannot produce this Fruit in our lives. As Pastor Jonathan said, “These are the ‘Fruit of the Spirit,’ not the ‘Works of the Believers.”  We are human, with a sinful nature, and cannot produce spiritual actions on our own. However, because the blood of Jesus Christ has saved us, we now have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, working through us as we are obedient to Jesus Christ. We should walk daily with Him, allowing the Spirit to guide us, granting us wisdom, and convicting us when we’re reluctant to do what’s right—and much more. And when we are trying in love to obey His commands, the Holy Spirit continues to produce Fruit in our lives. He is the One who works in us, both to will and to do for His good pleasure.

Focal Passages: Galatians 5:22-25.

Abiding in Him:

• Read John 15:5, 7-8. John begins by giving us an illustration of a healthy fruit-bearing plant. What is the one thing we know about a plant that has fruit? What happens if the root is separated from the branches that hold the fruit? What can the branch do if it is cut from the root? What will it do—quickly?
• What does God mean when He tells us to abide in Him? What are some ways we can do this? What are some other ways—perhaps those that are not as comfortable for us—to abide in Him?
• What does He mean that His words must abide in us? If we are truly abiding in Christ, will we ask anything for ourselves except what He wants for us? Would we ask only for those things that enrich our lives to bring more glory to Him? Would we ever ask anything wrong, or harmful, or coveted, or from pride, and expect to get it?
• Why do we want to be filled with spiritual fruit? Do we wish to have fruit in order to be complimented, or puffed up because we are so great? What does verse 8 specifically tell us?
• How will people know we are Christ-followers? What does it mean to be His disciple?

The Fruit of Kindness:

• Being kind is not the same as being nice; can someone tell the meaning of kindness, and how it differs from being nice? Can we be kind to someone who has just wronged us? Can we be kind to someone we don’t like?
• Read Prov. 25:21. Can we do this? Why does the motive of our heart determine whether we receive a reward from God or satisfy the flesh? What should our motive be when we’re kind? Why would God reward us for serving someone who is really our enemy? What do we mean when we say kindness is much more than a show?
• Why would we show kindness to people who don’t know us, or people who don’t like us, or people who know we don’t like them?

The Fruit of Goodness:

• Does anyone recall what goodness means, in this context? Is goodness one of God’s character qualities? What are some Scriptures saying He is good? (Ex. 34:6, Psa. 52:1b, Rom. 2:4, 11:22, 2 Thess. 1:11). Why are these verses so wonderful?
• Can someone please explain what is meant by this: “Goodness is an external representation of the internal heart”?
• Goodness in this context is an active representation of our thoughts. Can you rephrase that sentence? Read Matt. 15:18, James 3:2, 6, 8. How do these verses illustrate how impossible it is for us to control our tongue, and how necessary it is that we lean completely on the Spirit?

The Blessing of CALM:

• Read John 14:25-27. Why would Kindness and Goodness result in a life of peace? Where does our peace come from? Read Rom. 5:1 and 8:6. Do these verses tell us that grasping for peace anywhere except in salvation through Jesus Christ is useless?
• Why did Jesus tell us to guard our hearts from worrying about trouble, and not to let fear take hold over us? Read 2 Timothy 1:7. Where is our faith when we allow fear to attack us?

ACTION STEPS:

• Figure out how to abide in Him. We should walk in worship, soak in the Word, focus on prayer, and believe His promises.
• Look for the odd opportunity to be kind rather than not. This will take intentionality. Each time you do this, you train your heart to look for those opportunities.
• Bless someone this week without any ulterior motive. Do something out of the ordinary “for the glory of God and the good of others” (Dondi Costin).

Close: 

When we think of the Fruit the Holy Spirit bears in our lives daily, we have to ask ourselves, what are God’s priorities for us as believers? His first priority is for us to love Him with everything we are, heart, soul, mind, and strength, and everything in our day should be done out of a heart of deep love for Him. His second priority is for us to love everyone who crosses our path and be willing to help them—as the Good Samaritan did. How do we love these unknown people? We should see them as Jesus sees them: with compassion, for they are made in the image of God. We can smile, give a genuine compliment, or look for a way to bless them, like holding a door open, letting them go ahead of us in any line, or allowing their car to go ahead of ours in a traffic snarl, wherever we are. We may lose a minute or a few minutes. Over the length of our lives, will those really matter, since we are serving God? Probably not. But our rewards will be a life of love, joy, peace, kindness, and goodness. And possibly even patience.

By Sandy Day

November 16, 2025                                                                                                    

CULTIVATE: THE POWER OF LOVE AND THE REWARD OF JOY

November 02, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

In November, we will study the Fruit of the Spirit as found in Galatians 5:16-26. A beautiful verse in 2 Peter 1:3 is one we can learn from and grow in our spiritual life—if we take it to heart. “His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue.” As we study the fruit that should be apparent in our lives as we walk under the leading of God the Holy Spirit, we see a promise: all that we need to live a life of joy and love is found in Scripture. But—like vitamins in the bottle on a shelf, or a doctor’s advice if it isn’t followed—that fruit only comes when it is internalized in our hearts. Join us as we learn how to be joyful and loving to everyone.

Focal Passages: Galatians 5:16-26, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.

The Spirit-filled life:

• Read Gal. 5:16. Paul begins by giving an action and a consequence. What Spirit is he talking about? When did the Holy Spirit make His entrance into the lives of the believers in the early church? Where is He now, in your life as a believer?
• When was the Holy Spirit first mentioned in the Bible? (Gen. 1:26). The early church understood the Trinity. Is He as fully God as the Father and the Son? (Acts 5:3, John 14:26, Rom. 8:11, 1 Cor. 3:16). Is He a Person? Can we talk to Him?
• Can we love Him, and be loved by Him? How can we grieve the Holy Spirit? Does that mean He will leave us? What are some of His functions in our lives?
• Does the Holy Spirit fill us with power? What kind of power do we have from Him? What are the first steps we can take to give the Holy Spirit power in our lives to resist sin? If we walk in the Spirit, will we rise above the lusts of the flesh?
• Read vv. 22-23. In an orchard or a garden, which plants produce good fruits or foods? How is that like us, if we listen to the Holy Spirit, or obey Satan? What fruit is produced by the Holy Spirit? Can you have any of the other eight fruits if you lack love? Why is that? Read 1 Cor. 13:13. Why does Paul come to this conclusion?

The beginning of the Spirit-filled life–Love:

• Read Gal. 5:22a. As you walk under the power of the Holy Spirit, what must you have in order to bear fruit? Read Matt. 22:34-40 and Luke 10:27. What does Jesus mean in these passages? How do we show that we love the Lord with all our heart?
• Read 1 Cor. 13:4-8. Which of these is the hardest to do? How can we do these? What is the first thing the Holy Spirit has to have if we conquer this mountain? Why does he say Love never fails?
• What are some steps we can take to love others in a life-changing way that works miracles in our lives and that will eventually bear godly fruit?

The reward for the Spirit-filled life–JOY:

• Read Gal. 5:22b. What is the meaning of JOY? How does Joy differ from Happiness?
• How often do we confuse joy and happiness? If we truly have a heart that is willing to be used by God to love other people, how would that produce joy?
• Read James 1:2. What are some ‘trials’ that you can think of that happen in our lives? How can we be joyful when something dreadful happens without being a hypocrite?
• Read Neh. 8:10b. What does this verse mean? Read John 15:5-11. What can we learn about the relationship between God’s joy and our joy?

The power of the Spirit-filled life—LOVE and JOY:

• For us: If we have joy as a result of walking under the leading of the Holy Spirit, will other people notice? Has that been you in the past? Is it you now?
• To others: If you begin loving other people, will this be a ‘new’ you? Read Philippians 2:3-5. How does this show us exactly how we should treat others, and how does that rebound in our joy?

ACTION:

• Look for the barriers to walking in the Spirit. 5:19-20 lists many of the distractions that will grieve the Spirit, perhaps quench Him, and render you useless.
• See others for who they are: God’s beloved creation. Remind yourself daily that every person you encounter is the Apple of God’s eye.
• See the best, even in the worst. Remind yourself that if this situation is permanent, you can either fight against God or find joy in the offering. Choose joy. We do have a choice.

Close:  

What a marvelous God we have! Just think—if we had been raised in a country that worships idols, man-made, as Scripture says, with part of the wood or other material that you use also to make a chair to go with your table, we would have been doomed. But we are blessed by having a God-breathed Bible that tells us of God’s love for us. It tells us how He let Jesus, His only Son, come to earth to die for our sins, and it tells us of God the Holy Spirit who will indwell our bodies to lead us in paths of righteousness! All of that is too awesome for words. Then couple that with the knowledge that He also grants us the power He has used to create the world, to rise from the grave, and to feed the thousands. Yet the Holy Spirit uses this power so that we can become a valuable tool for God to bring others into His Kingdom. It’s all too much for frail, ‘dusty’ humans to take in. He will one day allow us to be with Him forever. What a day that will be!

By Sandy Day

November 02, 2025

“If God is truly your Father, He won’t let you live a double life for long.”

ACTS: BREAKING THROUGH

October 19, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

We as modern day Christians may find it hard to envision a world where such discrepancy existed that the newly-birthed church would find it difficult to consider taking the Gospel to non-Jews. Yet in the Old Testament God had foretold that Gentiles—non-Jewish persons—would be offered the same salvation as the Jews. When Jesus commanded the disciples in Matt. 28:19 to go into ‘all’ the world and preach the Gospel, perhaps they didn’t grasp they would be preaching to Gentiles, but assumed they would be seeking displaced Jews. God’s revealed mystery was that it would go to ‘all’ people everywhere because of Jesus Christ. Now they were at that crossroads, and God is saying, “You are [now] going to have to eat with them.” Peter’s reaction was “Not so, Lord!” Leviticus 11 and Deut. 14 condemned a Gentile diet of unclean animals. God was patient with Peter, assuring him that He had cleansed the meat for New Testament believers. Peter took some persuading to obey. Do we ever respond, “Not so, Lord”?

Focal Passages: Acts 10, 11

God’s intention is known—To All:

• Read Acts 10:1-6. How well-known was Cornelius? In verses 1-2, what were some of the things this man did for the Jewish people in Caesarea? Why did seeking the God of the Jews open him up to salvation? What did an angel tell him to do?
• Read Acts 10:9-16. While the servants begin traveling to Joppa, what does Peter—at a time he is very hungry—see in a vision? What was different about these animals, reptiles, and birds?
• Read (skim!) Leviticus 11. What had God told Israel? Who told Peter to kill and eat? What was his response? Why did he need God to repeat His command that He had cleansed it?
• Was this lesson from God about eating, or about something bigger? Was God telling Peter a New Covenant was now in effect? Do we have traditions and laws within the church today that might hinder “all” people from feeling comfortable in our church? Give some examples. How should we react?

God’s message is clear—For all:

• Read Acts 10:24-28. When Peter and the ones from Caesarea were arriving at the house of Cornelius, who was waiting for them? What does verse 27 add to this?
• Did Peter react correctly when Cornelius bowed down to worship him? What did Peter do?
• What kind of body language do you think Peter had when he spoke verse 28 to them? Do we ever use language that might indicate we are not comfortable with a situation? How do you see verse 28b? Why did this verse not get wide attention in the past 200 years? Would it have eliminated some racial problems if Christians had been convinced of its worthiness?
• Do you have any left-over racial prejudice that you can justify against this verse? What about other countries all over the globe? Is this for all people?

God’s promise is true—In all:

• Read Acts 10:39-43. What are some of the reasons Peter gives that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies for a Messiah?
• Does Peter make it plain that salvation is a gift to anyone who believes in Jesus Christ?

God’s grace is great—With all:

• Read Acts 10:44-45. What happened while Peter was preaching to these people? What about the people who had come to Caesarea with Peter?
• What about today? Is Matthew 28:19 still in effect? Are there any people-groups who are unable to be saved? Are there any who have not been witnessed to yet? Does this bother you?

God’s hope is everlasting—Through all:

• Read Acts 11:15-18. In Chapter 11, Peter gives the apostles an explanation of the meeting with those in Caesarea. In verse 3, you will see those in Judea were horrified that he had eaten with Gentiles, but while Peter told of witnessing to them, what was their response?
• Read vv. 23-26. Who gets involved here? After hearing what was happening in Caesarea, where did he go? Where did he and Paul go next? When had Paul first learned that he was chosen to preach to the Gentiles? What was special about these journeys?

TAKE AWAYS:

• Never lose sight that the Gospel is not yours alone but is for all.
• It is not your job to save; it is your job to share.
• Focus your time and energy on where God is working, and join Him there; you will be amazed at how God uses you.

Close:  We can all empathize when God told Peter through the angel to go to Cornelius’ home and share the Gospel. Can you imagine being told to go to someone whom, your whole life, was not a person you could associate with? Many years ago, America had those lines drawn, and we must thank God every day that those lines have been erased. However, we see today that people of all races prefer to hang on to some of those holdovers from the past. Individually, we must make every effort to ensure we do not in any way continue those old traditions, for it is a sin to do so. We are all one in Jesus Christ, and should never allow prejudice have a place in our lives.

Furthermore, these Gentiles ate ‘unclean’ animals. Jews had strict rules regarding these animals, and the laws were given to Aaron and Moses! It would be as if we today knew we were going to a home where they might serve roadkill! No wonder Peter was horrified. But God emphasized three times that He had cleansed this food, and Peter should not call it unclean anymore. Peter understood God—and got the message. We have not grown up with dietary laws as Christians, because a New Covenant—one of faith—was instituted when Jesus Christ came. May we all be living a life pleasing to the Lord, free of anything that would hinder a brother from salvation.

By Sandy Day

October 19, 2025

ACTS: THE CITY IS COUNTING ON YOU

October 05, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

It’s an encouragement to see believers obeying God’s instructions, isn’t it? In fact, that’s how we know we are His children (1 Jn. 5:3). In Matthew 28:19, Jesus told us to go into all the world and preach the good news. In today’s sermon Acts 8, we see such harsh persecution coming upon the Christ-followers in Jerusalem that the believers scattered to other places. Some went to Judea, Samaria, and some to the uttermost parts of the earth. Was this to destroy the church? Not at all. This was God’s way of placing believers in other cities and towns so the truth of the Gospel of Christ could spread to everyone. Acts 8 gives us a record of Philip making his way from Jerusalem to Samaria, then going one-hundred miles south, to Gaza. There, he met the eunuch of Ethiopia, the secretary of the queen’s treasury, who was returning to Ethiopia from Jerusalem. He was studying a scroll from Isaiah. Philip led him to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, baptized him, and the man returned to his own country, to share the good news, while Philip continued elsewhere!

Focal Passages: Acts 8

Joy in the city:

• Read Acts 8:1-4. Whose death is Saul consenting to in vs. 1? Why did the persecution escalate now? Who are ‘they’ who were scattered? Did anyone remain in Jerusalem? Why were Judea and Samaria important?
• After Stephen’s stoning, what happened in the life of Saul? What did all the people who had gone to other cities do? Where did Philip go? What do you remember about Philip from chapter 7?
• How did the people of Samaria respond? Did Philip only preach? During the time Jesus was preaching, what term did Jews apply to Samaritans (Mt. 15:26-27)? Why were they so hated? What was the result of Philip’s preaching and healing in the Name of Jesus?
• Does it seem from the text that the persecution in Jerusalem had extended to Samaria? Why do you think it hadn’t? How long had it been since Jesus visited Samaria with the Gospel? If there were people who had been saved when the woman at the well was, would the city have probably been ready for teaching? Are you as obedient to the call of God as Philip?

The right motivation:

• Read Acts 8:9-13. In vv. 9-11, can you relate Simon’s charlatanry to someone you remember out of your youth (when ‘magic’ acts seemed real)? In vs. 12, what happened as Philip preached?
• How did Simon respond? Where in the passage is Simon’s brokenness over his sin, and his repentance? What did he think of the miracles? What could he see himself doing? Why did Philip let Simon be baptized without questioning him more closely? Do you take people’s declaration of belief at face value until God intervenes?
• (Not in the sermon:) Please read vv. 14-17. Who came to Samaria? What were their roles? What had Jesus given to Peter in Mt. 16:19? What did they do? Did the Holy Spirit come?
• Read Acts 8:18-23. Why did Simon desire to have the Holy Spirit? Who realized immediately what his desire was? How did Peter respond?

Understanding the call:

• Read Acts 8:25-27a. When Peter and James were satisfied the Samaritans were in the good hands of Philip, what did they do? (Meanwhile, back in Samaria) …What did an angel tell Philip to do? How does the Bible describe that trip? In vs 27, what did he do?
• How far was it from Samaria to Gaza by this route? Does God’s call seem absurd to you?
• Read vv. 27b-34. Can someone tell what happens in this passage? When we truly are wanting to be used by God, will He furnish everything we need, as we are obedient? How do you know this?

Power in the Word:

• Read verses 39-40. When you witness, who is the One who will give you courage and utterance? Do you believe that? Which verse is the essence of the salvation message?
• As we witness, who is it all dependent upon?

TAKE AWAYS:

• Remember the hope for your city is not found in its economic success or political standing, it comes from the Gospel.
• Never forget your personal calling is to evangelize.
• You are not required to ‘know it all’ but you are required to speak His Name.

Close:

There are so many verses we can learn from in this chapter (as in every chapter of the Bible)! We know we have a tendency to desire a comfortable life while we live the dash—that area between the date of our birth and the date of our death on our tombstone. Does God want us comfortable? Not necessarily. He wants us useful. If this page were filled with zeros on every line, front and back, representing eternity, they would be nothing but a start—we can’t even imagine eternity. Our days on earth would hardly be a speck. We have a few short years in which to make a difference in someone’s life by heeding God’s call to be a light to the path of everyone we meet. Philip was. He went where God told him, 65 miles north, then 100 miles south, then back again (another route). He didn’t complain, whine, tell God it was too cold or hot, rainy or dry. He obeyed and then rejoiced at the results God gave. And when we lead someone to Christ, we don’t have the ability to see their heart—whether it is regenerated or not. That is God’s job. But we do need to tell them our sin has separated us from God, and we cannot save ourselves. It takes an act of God to give repentance to the heart. He provided the Savior, and He will save those who believe in Him. He is a wonderful Savior, a mighty God, an everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Amen.

By Sandy Day
October 05, 2025                                                                                                       

ACTS: THE BLESSING OF THE FAITHFUL

September 21, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The early church in the Book of Acts banded together cohesively as they sought fellowship with like-minded brothers and sisters in the faith. They were learning to live in harmony with each other, obeying the Holy Spirit, and the commands of Jesus Christ. There was much persecution from the religious leaders and the government. One thing they knew: if God commanded it, they would try to obey. As they stayed faithful to His word, they were blessed. We see, as we study chapter 5 today, unfaithfulness to the Holy Spirit could bring swift retribution, while faithfulness brought protection and multiple blessings from God. It was true for the early church and is true for believers today. God delights in a faithful Christ-follower.

Focal Passages: Acts 5

Peter and John stayed the course:

• Can someone tell us from memory the sin of Ananias and Sapphira, found in Acts 5:1-11? What was the verdict given by Peter in verse 9? What final result was experienced in verse 11? What do you think the church learned?
• Read Acts 5:12-16. Who was on Solomon’s Porch in this passage? Do you recall what Peter and John had experienced just days before? Did they back down from being told to keep quiet? In verse 13, who was afraid to join the apostles? What were they afraid of? Who did the people esteem? Why?
• Were the people continuing to come for healing? Who else came? What did Peter and John do?
• In today’s world, do Christians suffer persecution? Do you think it is getting worse? How does it affect you? Do you think you would be one of those in verse 13, or would you have courage to keep witnessing to people? (Do you witness now?)

The protection of the faithful:

• Read Acts 5:17-18. The religious leaders could not stand to let the apostles keep healing and speaking in the name of Jesus. What did they do to Peter and John? What happened in verses 19-20?
• How did the apostles respond in 21a? (Meanwhile, back at the jail…) What was happening in 21b-23?
• Peter and John were back in the temple at the direction of the Holy Spirit. Do you think they were thinking they might be killed as Jesus had been or were they not fearful?
• Read vs. 24. The religious and government leaders were wondering ‘what the outcome would be’; what did that mean? They were actually scared of the people. Would you have been preaching with Peter and John, or standing outside of the crowd, so you would not be noticed?

Remaining true to His Word will keep you faithful to His work:

• Read Acts 5:25-32. What is the glimpse of fear this passage gives you as to how the captain and officers felt? Why were they terrified of the people? Why do you think Peter and John went without violence (actually, just as Jesus had done a few weeks before)?
• Why was the high priest angry? How did Peter and John answer them? What else did they say? Was this the way they had answered when they were interrogated in chapter four? Do you recall other times in Scripture where someone chose to obey God rather than man?
• When Peter said the Holy Spirit was given to those who obey Jesus, did the high priest know what they meant? This was a question in last week’s study also because Peter referred to Him then also. If you were the high priest, would you have tried to discover what Peter was talking about?

Remaining faithful to the work will reveal the blessings of the Lord:

• Read Acts 5:33-39. Does anyone remember what Gamaliel is known for? (Read Acts 22:3 if you don’t know the answer). Why was his argument so wise?
• Read vv. 40-42. How were Peter and John punished? What was their response? Did they stop preaching this time? Why not? How would you respond if we suffered for Christ?

TAKE AWAYS:

• Whenever the work of God is underway, you will face resistance from within and without. Do the work anyway.
• God’s call on your life cannot be stopped by anything or anyone.
• Determine to obey God and His Word, regardless of pressure put upon you.

Close:

It can be a very shocking question to ask “how fearless are you”? If you saw speakers at the funeral of the 31-year-old man, Charlie Kirk, who was recently assassinated, you will have heard them say Charlie was fearless about sharing his faith—or talking about Jesus Christ. Can you relate or does the thought freeze you? We must be honest with ourselves: do we lower our voice if we speak the name of Jesus in public? Do we hesitate to tell a friend, who has a huge list of hurts or abuses and does not know Christ, that He loves them and will give them a new life? Why are we hesitant? If we could but understand this fear is from Satan, it should give us the courage to talk about our Savior anytime, anyplace. What will they do to you? Matt. 10:28 says, “Do not fear those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” We have the responsibility to talk to others about Jesus Christ. What if you are the only person a friend might listen to? A glaring need arises here: we need to spend so much quality time in Bible study that we can find passages that will address someone’s concern. That only comes with diligent knowledge of His Word. Search for Scriptures you know might be asked, and know what God expects. You will never regret the time you spend getting familiar with verses that could change someone’s heart!

By Sandy Day
September 21, 2025                                                                  

ACTS: THE UNSTOPPABLE SPIRIT OF GOD

September 07, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

The Book of Acts is an amazing read. Luke, the author, continues his account of Jesus Christ by picking up the story-line as the disciples wait in Jerusalem after the Resurrection for the “Promise of the Father.” As Pastor Falwell points out, without the book of Acts, we would go from the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), to the book of Romans—a book filled with doctrine for the already-formed church whose believers were constantly in danger because of incensed religious leaders of the Jews. Romans would leave the reader confused about the timeline. Acts threads the two accounts together by presenting the obedience of the apostles, the beginning of the church, and the introduction of the great apostle, Paul, and his call by God to the Gentiles. Paul’s mission to take the Gospel to Gentiles opened salvation to the world. The Holy Spirit, given to believers at Pentecost, began His unstoppable work in building the church in Acts. As Pastor said, Acts is a history lesson of the early church, telling how it was established, and what should be its role today. It gives our responsibility as we continue to spread the message of the Gospel.

Focal Passages: Acts 1 & 2.

The message and the messenger:

• Read Acts 1:1-4. Why did Luke choose the word ‘began’ in verse 1? As we look at these verses, what did he tell Theophilus that we can use as we witness? In verse 4, why did Jesus want them to wait in Jerusalem?
• Read vv. 5-7. Do you think the apostles understood the scope of the Holy Spirit as Jesus told them to wait? Does it seem, in verse 6, that they did not realize Jesus would be ascending back to Heaven?
• Read vv. 8-11. Why can we say this passage is a sum of what could be the ‘mission statement’ of every Christian church? What are some of the ways we can be witnesses worldwide while living in a small town? What is the message the apostles had to give to the world? Who were the messengers then—and who are the messengers now?
• How are you carrying out your responsibility?

The preparation for the messenger:

• Read Acts 1:12-14. In obedience to Jesus’ instructions, where did the apostles go? Why does Luke say ‘a Sabbath day’s journey’? What was so special as this group of people gathered in that upper room? What is the meaning of ‘supplication’?
• How is prayer and supplication a preparation for someone who wants to be used by Jesus? What promises did the apostles have from Him that they wanted fulfilled?
• How is spending time in prayer and supplication like sitting with Jesus and getting prepared in our hearts before going out to do His work?

The fulfillment of the promise:

• Read Acts 2:1-4. Is there a chance the majesty that accompanied the Holy Spirit in that first anointing could cause us to think we don’t have Him due to the quiet way He comes to us?
• Read vv. 5-8. Who was the crowd around the disciples? What amazed them so much?
• What can we learn from this passage about Jesus’ promises? What did the apostles learn from the unity they all shared? Based on what you have learned so far, would you be able to explain to people how this was the beginning of the church in the New Testament? Read Matt. 16:18. Do we need to worry about the church?
• Can you understand you received the same gift as those in Acts 2 when you accepted Jesus as your Savior? How can you be more aware of this as you go forward?

The beginning of the work:

• Read verses 36-41. In 2:14, as Peter starts preaching to the crowd, what is so incredible? What can you infer from his complete change from a few days before, when he had denied he even knew Jesus? Why had he lost all his fear?
• What do we know about fear, and do we need to ever be fearful, as our God is always with us?

Close:

What was the most amazing part of Acts one or two for you today? Think of Peter, just a few days before at the trial of Jesus, when he was, at first, so ready to protect Jesus that he cut off a soldier’s ear. (And can you imagine Malchus—who was in excruciating pain and bleeding horribly. Then, Jesus reaches out His hand and restores the soldier’s ear, no pain, no more blood. What if you had been that man? Would you have hurt Jesus?)  By the time the men of the legion had arrested Jesus to take Him away, Peter had already undergone a change into fear—as had all the other apostles, for they had all fled. However, Peter stayed nearby as the scene escalated. He was near enough that when the rooster crowed after Peter had denied Jesus three times, Peter looked over and saw Jesus looking at him! How humiliating. How sorrowful. No wonder he went out to weep and repent for what he had done. Now, maybe ten days later, Peter stands to his feet as thousands of people are around the apostles and preaches a sermon such as the Billy Graham’s of this world have preached.

Peter had years to witness before death. During that time, he must have seen untold numbers come to Jesus as Savior. One day we ourselves will meet Peter, and have conversations with him. And on that day, we will also meet Jesus. Can you imagine? Have you prepared your heart for that time?

By Sandy Day
September 07, 2025

ROMANS: FINDING YOUR PURPOSE THROUGH BUILDING YOUR TEAM

August 24, 2025

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

People often ask, “How can I know God’s will or purpose for my life?” The answer is found in the Scripture: go to your Bible and search for God’s will or God’s purpose. Note all references. Beside each, write down the instruction (for instance, 1 Thess. 5:16-18, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you.”) Once you have conquered those, go on to more–there are over fifty in God’s word. His purpose for you is to do His will. This is not done in isolation—as a believer, you are part of a community who want to know God better, love Him more, and obey His commands. A second purpose is to help evangelize a lost world. You will not be able to obey those commands without the support and love of other believers—the same ones you will help when they are weak. We all go through valleys that threaten to swamp us, but have your armor on, stand firm against Satan, and never, ever, ever quit. You’ll overcome.

Focal Passages: Romans 15, 16.

The importance of “TEAM”:

• Read Romans 15:1-4. As this chapter opens, what do we see as a responsibility? Paul knows there are times we are ‘strong,’ as well as weak. How does he know we will go through these seasons? Read Psa. 23:2, 3, 5 and vs. 4, and John 16:33.
• Can we obey this command in vs. 1 if we live in isolation? If you keep yourself in your safe house, can you love and serve believers who are hurting, or in trouble, or in the midst of bad news? What example did Christ give us when He came to earth (Mark 10:45)?
• Read vv. 5-7. Why do these verses sound like a prayer from Paul’s heart? Do you see yourself each day weighing your faith in God against how you treat the family of God? Do you look around the congregation, mindful that you are to accept other believers as Christ accepts you? Why do we need a reality check in our relationships with fellow believers in particular, and the world in general? Why can we not love God without loving His children?

The importance of hope:

• Read Rom. 15:13. Is Paul praying for these believers again? What is he asking for? How do we get joy and peace? Why does it not come from anywhere but God?
• If we have joy and peace, how does that result in an abundance of hope? Read 1 Peter 1:8.

How would an abundance of hope change your life?

• What is Biblical hope? Why is God the only place where our hope can come from? What are the two different ways we use the word hope? Which is the Biblical view? Who gives us the hope?
• Read Eph. 3:20. Why would Paul want these believers to be abounding in hope?

The importance of purpose:

• Read Rom. 15:14-15, and Rom. 1:8. How had Paul started off his letter to the Romans back in chapter one? How do you think these believers felt, being commended so highly by the ‘great’ apostle Paul? Would his praise be a wonderful thing to have poured on you?
• What are the three positive attributes these believers have that Paul encourages to produce great results? Why would being filled with goodness and all knowledge enable them to admonish each other? When someone who loves you has to upbraid you, why are you so much more receptive to their words than if you feel they hate you?
• Can you show someone the road to take, if you are not on it yourself? What is the source of your godly counsel or knowledge of God’s word that you want to give to others? The church at Rome needed the benefit of their counsel; is this our calling also?

The importance of perseverance:

• Read Rom. 15:30-33. What does Paul beg for as he gets ready to close this letter? Why would he ask for prayers from this church? What was his request? What type of opposition did he have? Read 2 Cor. 11:23-28. Was this hatred ongoing?
• What else did Paul ask for them to pray for him? What is the greatest hindrance in our lives holding us back from sharing a need for prayer?

The importance of unity:

• Read Rom. 16:17-20. What does Paul now warn the church to beware of? What will keep our heart and soul protected against those who would tear down the body by deceit?
• Please explain what is meant by ‘being wise in what is good, and pure concerning evil.’ How does one get to this place?

The importance of confidence:

• What was the mystery kept secret since the world began? When Paul took the gospel to the Gentiles, how did the Jews react? Who was supposed to spread the gospel originally?
• Read John 3:16. How does this verse prove the inclusion of the Gentiles was God’s plan through the ages?

Close: As weeks turn into months and months turn into years, we see a shift in the world that causes us to wonder how close the ‘last days’ are. Is there a possibility of a great revival that could sweep our nation—or other nations? With the threat of advanced technology beyond anything we have ever known, we wonder what God feels as He watches humans shoved aside for the emergence of something not real usurping our jobs, our thought processes, and our social functions. We shake our heads in wonder. Then we see droves of young people coming to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, and feel hope that, perhaps, if banded together, they will make an impact upon the world that hasn’t been seen in centuries. Is there hope? It’s almost as if these young people have observed the past few generations and found them wanting. As if they are thinking, ‘What you did has apparently not satisfied you, or helped, so we are trying Jesus Christ.’ Now they are finding Him faithful. Good going, young people!

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           August 24, 2025

ROMANS 12: BODY BUILDING

August 03, 2025

Matt Willmington

Did you look at the title and immediately think exercise? This week’s sermon from Romans 12 will be a great lesson on building the body—but perhaps not what you would expect. Today, we will emphasize how to build not only your own body in its relationship to God the Father, but we will look at the body of the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as the body of believers, i.e., the church, and our relationship to everyone who is our brother or sister in the faith. In the past weeks, we have studied the doctrines of the church found in chapters 1-11 of Romans; today we will begin the duties discussed in chapters 12-16 for those whose lives have been saved by Jesus Christ, as they walk in newness of life.

Focal Passages: Romans 12.

Your body:

• Read Romans 12:1-2. As Paul opens this section on the duties of a believer, what is his first reminder of our responsibility? Many outside the church would not understand the exhortation to be a sacrifice; what does he mean? What are some ways we can daily be a sacrifice to God? Why is this our reasonable service? What are some services we perform in our mind as we look at God’s faithfulness? How is this a way to worship?
• Explain this sentence: ‘You don’t believe the right things [about your salvation] if it doesn’t impact your behavior’? Read Luke 22:19. What did Jesus mean? Do you think it is any coincidence that Satan, the father of lies, has put forth the main idea of those seeking an abortion to be the phrase ‘this is my body’? Yet, are we free to do anything we want with our body? If it hurts someone else, how is that a not judgment against ourselves?
• Read vs. 2. There is one command within this verse, with a two-part answer and subsequent action; what is it? What happened to our minds in the Garden, and what must we do to reform them? When the Holy Spirit comes in, how does He renew our mind? If we wish to know the will of God, how will a reformed mind bring that about?
• You are awake perhaps sixteen hours a day; what amount of that is bound up with things of this world (social media, television, worldly movies, books)? How can you avoid “garbage in, garbage out”? Would you give place to any of these if Christ in the flesh was sitting next to you? Do you remind yourself that God the Holy Spirit dwells within you?

His body:

• Read Rom. 12:3. How are we to think about ourselves? Are some people better than others? How does each one get the gifts or Spirit they have? So—if we are jealous of another’s abilities to serve God, are we in our mind complaining because He did not give us what He has given another? (See the Close).
• Read Rom. 12:4-8 and James 3:14-17. Where does our faith come from? (Read Heb. 12:2a). Why does God give differing amounts of faith to His people? Have you ever asked God to increase your faith? Are you using what He has given you?
• What did God give you gifts for? Can you share yours, and tell how you use them to edify other believers?
• Why is it so important that we offer our body to God for His use, and our gifts to each other as we serve others?

Our body, the church:

• Read Rom. 12:9-12. What is the common thread running through these exhortations? When there is someone you have a difference with, how do you love them without hypocrisy? Abhor here is to have a horror; is there anything you have a horror of? Tell how you are to reflect that same horror of things that God does not approve of (and you may or may not take part in it). How can we show a preference for letting others ‘go before us’?
• Read vv. 13. These service gifts are sometimes easier to do than the ones that call for our renewed mind; why? Read vv. 14-16. When is the last time someone cursed you and you did not retaliate? Why should we let God avenge us? Do you treat everyone the same? Why or why not?
• Why should we never seek praise? How does God feel about our personal pride, when it rears itself? How can we learn to squash it until it is dead? Has anyone here been able to do that? Can you share? Read 1 Cor. 16:14, James 4:17, and 1 Cor. 10:24, and 31. Why are these verses so important when it comes to Paul’s instructions for us in this passage?
• Read vv. 17-21. What would your family be like if this ‘code of conduct’ were implemented in your home? What would change the most? Think which child would be a different individual if you had done this from the time your children were born; would it have made a difference?

Close:

In 2006, Andy and Linda Barrick were hit by a drunk driver going 80 mph, wrecking their van so badly neighbors who passed by did not recognize their friends’ vehicle. All four family members were victims of enormous personal body damage, so much so they thought perhaps their fifteen-year-old daughter would not make it.  After months of treatment, Mr. and Mrs. Barrick and their son, Josh, were healing; however, the daughter Jen would need help much longer.

After the wreck was sufficiently in the past that the family could function again, news of their near-fatality turned into invites to churches far and wide to hear of God’s mercy and grace to this family. Over the coming years, now heading for the twentieth, the Barricks have often lived out of suitcases as they have traveled the globe to give their testimonies. Their lives became a “living sacrifice” as they spoke up to several times a week in order to exhort people to give their lives to Jesus, as no-one knows when the moment might come that their life on earth will be over.

Many may have wished their own lives could have resulted in the number of salvations the Barrick’s will have surrounding them when they are at the feet of Jesus. At the same time, would anyone be willing to go through the chaos, turmoil, anguish, pain, and resulting discomfort found in their experience? Yet their reward will be incredible. Would you say, “I will go, send me”?

By Sandy Day
August 03, 2025                                                               

ROMANS: CHOSEN TO CHOOSE

July 20, 2025

Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

As we continue through the Book of Romans, we find a shift in emotion as Paul begins, in Chapter 9, to focus on his nation, the Jews—or Israelites. In his life before salvation, Paul had been a Pharisee, a religious leader of the people, with incredible knowledge of the Law of Moses. He was so devout in the Jewish faith he became zealous to destroy anyone who followed the Man, Jesus of Nazareth, whom Paul believed to be an infidel. After Jesus’ crucifixion, Paul was accosted on his way to Damascus by Jesus Christ, finally recognizing the truth that Jesus was the Son of God. His life was changed forever, and he began preaching salvation by grace alone, in Christ alone, not by following the Mosaic law. In today’s text we see him brokenhearted as his own people reject Jesus as Messiah. Paul preaches the sovereignty of God, His plan to provide a Savior for all people who will turn from their sinful lifestyles and accept His free gift of salvation.

Focal Passages: Romans 9, 10.

God is sovereign: He always has a plan

• Read Romans 9:1-5. What does ‘God is sovereign’ really mean? What are the characteristics of God that no one else can attain to? What do each of the qualities mean (for instance, omnipotent)? Do you believe you can trust Him to care for you?
• In vv. 1-3, why does Paul emphasize his truthfulness? What causes him continual grief and sorrow? How far would Paul go to see his brethren saved? Would you say this for Americans? Is there anyone you would give up your eternal life for?
• What seven blessings had God given Israel, and what did each mean to the Jewish people (vv. 4-5)? Why were they so blind that they did not recognize Jesus as being from God?

God is sovereign: His plans always have a purpose

• Read vv. 6-9. Is Israel made up of those who are the direct descendants of Abraham? Who are the children of God? Read 1 John 3:10, Gal. 3:26, and Rom. 8:16. Are these references to believers through history, or Israel? Read Jer. 29:11. Do you know this is for you?
• What had God’s promise meant to Abraham and Sarah? How had they tried to take control of the situation? Were Abraham’s sons by his concubines counted as heirs of the promise?
• Read vv. 10-13. What did the word ‘hate’ mean? Read Lu. 14:26. What does it mean here?

God is sovereign: His character is perfect

• Read verses 14-17. Is God ever unrighteous? If we feel God is unfair, what is our problem? If God has made salvation available to all, why do people still reject Jesus?
• Read vv. 17-18. What is the literal meaning of this Scripture when God hardens a heart?
• When God looks at us, what does He see? When we look at others, can we see their heart? How does that affect what we think about them?

God is sovereign: His plans are merciful and just

• How is God merciful? What does He ask for the free gift of salvation?
• If we reject the saving grace of Jesus Christ, how does God’s justice prevail?

The Doctrine of Predestination/Election

If you did not see the sermon, please watch it. Charles’ handling of this passage was done in truth and compassion, bringing these two beautiful, Biblical, doctrines into perfect harmony.

The Gospel is available to all of us—therefore, all of us are accountable

• Read Rom. 1:19-20. Even without the Bible, how can people know there is a God? Will they be held accountable when they stand before God?

The Gospel is Universal—therefore, it is available to all of us

• Read Rom. 10:11-13. Who can be saved?
• Read John 1:11. What must one do to be saved?

The Gospel is simple—therefore, everyone has the chance to understand

• Read Rom. 10:16-19. What did God do when the Jews rejected Jesus?

The Gospel is receivable—therefore, we must open our minds and hearts in order to receive it

• Read Rom. 10:20-21. What two groups of people did Paul quote from Isaiah?
• Read 2 Peter 3:9. What characteristic does God have that might explain why some people are given years to repent of their sins? Why is He long-suffering?

Close:

Many years ago, a pastor talked about his life before salvation. His father had abandoned the family while the son was a small child, and later, as a young teen, he moved out and lived on the streets. Eventually he was hungry, drug-addicted, and had no job or money. He walked by a church, pushed on the door and went in, only to find the pastor of the church inside. It was then he heard about Jesus Christ and the free gift of salvation. He thought, ‘I’m hungry, I have no job, money, family or home, and I live on the streets, taking drugs. I have a chance to have peace and happiness, because Someone loves me. I would be foolish to turn Him down.’ He accepted Jesus.

We all know that every day there are thousands of people dying all over the world, having rejected the free gift offered by God. Why? Perhaps they won’t trust Him, or don’t want to turn control of their life over to someone else. It would take only one day in hell before those who are there would wish to again be offered eternal life with Jesus, wouldn’t it?

By Sandy Day
July 20, 2025

ROMANS 7: THE STRUGGLE IS REAL

July 06, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Have you ever wondered why others do not seem to have the problems you do? You don’t hear them speaking of issues often, so you assume they have few. Perhaps it’s because many people are not vocal about their struggles, because they are thinking the same thing. God is always giving us nuggets of gold by way of Paul. As in Phil. 3:13, “Forgetting those things which are behind,” because they cause us shame, or bring pain, yet he says ‘forget them.’ Paul knows if they’re under the blood, God has wiped them out and we don’t need to suffer for the past. Today we hear Paul say, “Those things I want to do, I don’t, and those things I don’t want to do, I find myself doing…” We take comfort that Paul has given us a weapon to use when we think something we don’t want to, and we immediately carry it to God with “I’m so sorry, I don’t know where the thought came from!” It came from our flesh—which we’ll always struggle against. The struggle is real—but so is the solution. Look to Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our faith. He is our lifeline.

Focal Passages: Romans 7.

The power of the law:

• Read Romans 7:4-6. Why did God give the Jews the law? What did some of the rituals entail? What did the law show the people? Why is it necessary to learn our works won’t save us?
• Why did God use the illustration of a marriage to explain the law and Christ? What was meant that the law is dead when a person becomes a believer in Jesus Christ?
• What fruit did we bear while unsaved? Why do we wish to break a law telling us what we must do? What is the only way we can be free from the spirit of the law?
• Once we are freed from the bondage of the law, how do we serve Jesus?

The weakness of the law:

• Read Rom. 7:7-8a. Except in restricted areas, can you get a speeding ticket on the German Autobahn? Why not? If there is no law regarding a certain subject, is it illegal? How would you explain it? Why does making something off-limits or illegal produce evil desires within us?
• Read vv. 8b-11. When there were no laws, why was life ‘happy’? What happened when God gave the Ten Commandments? What did Paul mean, ‘when the commandment came, sin revived and I died’? What ‘killed’ him?
• Read vv. 12-13. How was the law holy, just, and good? Who was using the law to create sin, and a desire to sin? Why is this no longer the case for believers?

The struggle within:

• Read Rom. 7: 14. So—if the law is holy and good, why do we have this constant struggle? What did Paul mean, ‘I am carnal, sold under sin’?
• Read vv. 15-17. What conundrum does Paul find himself in? How is that different than what you go through daily?
• Read vv. 19-20. Could you write this same thing? What is his final phrase in verse 20? If sin dwells in us, will we be able to overcome it? Does it help to be intentional about not sinning?
• Read the following verses, or better yet—write them on a 3×5 card and switch to a new one each day until you have them memorized. Explain what Paul and John the Apostle meant in 1 Cor. 15:34; Eph. 4:26; Ex. 20:20; Eccl. 5:6a; Rom. 6:12; Rom. 6:13a; 1 John 1:9, 2:1a, 2:5, 2:6, 3:4, 3:6, 3:8, and 3:9.
• Read vs. 21. Do you truly desire to stay away from sin? What are three keys to keeping your heart right with God? (1. Know the Word of God. 2. Focus on the Word until you know it so well it goes from being informational to being instructional. 3. Live by the Word of God until you always make a deliberate decision to let it direct your steps and change your actions.)

Victory in the struggle:

• Read verses 22-23. As always, after Paul gives the bad news, he gives the good news so we can live victorious lives. In verse 22, how does your life compare to Paul’s description of himself? Do you delight in God in your innermost being? What can you do to cultivate that attitude?
• Can you understand Paul’s wretchedness? Is this you? He then gets excited with a joyful thanks to God in vs. 25. Why? Can we understand exactly how he feels?

Close:

Today’s text, Romans 7, is a great example of the old saying, ‘misery loves company.’ Even though we can get depressed at the number of times a thought comes into our minds that borders on sin—even though we immediately call on God, confess and refocus—the feeling of a continual struggle is a great burden and often overwhelming. However, we pick ourselves up, dust off, and keep going forward ‘toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.’ That is the only way to win. It is discouraging to think we will battle the flesh all the time we are on earth, but the truth is, we should keep giving the Holy Spirit more and more permission to direct our paths, point out situations that will make us angry or try our patience (or cause us to sin with our tongue), until we are less likely to choose to sin when our flesh is ruffled. It is hard to learn this lesson, but sinning, confessing, being repentant, can feel like a hamster on a wheel—and is hard also. Both are hard—so choose the one that gives life! It is more satisfying to bring glory to Jesus Christ by loving Him so much you have no wish to disappoint Him than fulfill your own desires—at least those of the flesh. Jesus told us to take up our cross and follow Him. Let’s do it.

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                               

July 06, 2025                                                                                                                     

ROMANS 5: THE POWER OF FAITH

June 22, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Chapter five of Romans opens with a celebratory verse of the greatest news a person—man or woman—can ever have. After hearing in chapters 1-4 that we have no hope for living at peace with the Creator God because the sin of Adam ushered in a race of humanity who are not worthy to be called sons and daughters of God, hope has been given because of the atoning work of Jesus Christ on the cross at Calvary. What all people know, including secular historians, is that Jesus Christ was crucified on a cross. What we believers know from first-hand accounts of those who walked and talked with Jesus is that He rose from the grave on the third morning, under His own power, alive and well, having been the perfect sacrifice for sin. He was seen over the next forty days by scores of people who knew Him, then He ascended back into heaven, waiting for God the Father to tell Him to return to the earth to get His children. This belief in Jesus gives us access to God the Father, as we rejoice in hope of that coming Day.

Focal Passages: Romans 5

Peace with God:

• Read Romans 5:1-2. What is Paul referring to when he opens with ‘therefore’? What is the state of mankind who has not believed that Jesus Christ is the only way to be justified from sins? Whose voice do unregenerated people listen to?
• When we come to Jesus with a repentant heart, asking forgiveness for our sins, what does He give us? Whose voice will we listen to after salvation?
• What else does God give us besides peace with Him? What is grace? What does ‘access by faith’ mean? What should be our response to this glorious access?
• Why does this give us a reason to hope? Read Hebrews 11:1. How does this explain our hope in eternal life?

Hope in our problems:

• Read Rom. 5:3-5. What are tribulations? Why should we glory in them? Read James 1:2-3. Does James also say this? Is patience and perseverance the same thing?
• How can we glory during a trial? What does it mean to you to glory in a trial? What are some things you can be grateful for during a tribulation?
• What do we know about tribulations? What do tribulations produce in our life? How does this happen? What does perseverance produce? What is meant by character? How do all of those produce hope? What is the meaning of hope?
• What work does the Holy Spirit have in all of this?

Acceptance in our Sin:

• Read Rom. 5:6-11. What does the first phrase (still without strength) mean? What does ‘in due time’ indicate?

• Who plunged the whole world into complete sin? How was it done? If Satan was able to tempt Adam and Eve, causing them to sin when they lived in a perfect world, do you think he is able to tempt you as well? How does he do that? Read James 1:13-15. He uses the bait he knows you will respond to. What is the bait that would bring you down today?
• After Adam’s sin, could men go to God anytime they wanted? What did God have to do to offer reconciliation to man? How did One Man reconcile us to God?

A Promise for our Future:

• Read Rom. 5:12-21. Is salvation free to anyone who will believe and repent? What if they continue to live a lifestyle of sin? Read Cor. 5:17. Will a saved man desire to continue sinning?
• Read 1 John 1:6-7. How important is it that we realize turning from our sin is the only way to come to God? Is that what the thief on the cross understood in those few seconds as he spoke to Jesus?
• Why is God’s grace so rich that He can overlook our sin and love us?

Close:

The topic of salvation is as varied as the people who profess it. There is only one standard for our salvation, which is the way it is presented in the Bible. No man’s ideas or suggestions are what we base our future life on—as the Word of God itself says in 2 Peter 1:16-21, “We did not follow cunningly devised fables … but were eyewitness of His majesty.” Are you sure of your salvation?

As we heard this morning from Romans, Paul laid out the truth: we can do nothing for ourselves to merit the free gift of eternal life. He made that abundantly clear in chapters one through four, focusing in chapter five on the only Name that gives us life, the Man Christ Jesus. And if you have been saved, as we read in 2 Corinthians, if we are really in Christ, we will be a new creation! All of the old, sinful lifestyles will pass away, and behold, we will become new. Do you sit in church, then go back to your partner without benefit of marriage? Do you go to work and continue your profanity? Do you continue to drink alcohol, thereby telling your children by your actions that it is okay to drink? Don’t forget, ‘what the parent excuses, the child abuses.’ It is an old saying because it has remained true. Let your light—even if it’s small—shine throughout your home until it is burning bright.

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                               

June 22, 2025                                                                                                                                         

ROMANS 2: RELIGION ON TRIAL

June 08, 2025

 Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Today we are in the second chapter of Romans, as we continue our new series in this amazing book that includes nearly every doctrine of Christianity. Last week, the first chapter introduced us to salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Paul, who began by telling the bad news for the people who have no time to worship the Creator God, continues the second chapter, censuring the self-righteous Judaizers for their actions. He emphasizes that righteousness is based on the heart, with faith in Jesus Christ, and obedience to His commands. Following Christ is not an easy commitment—but one that will reap wonderful rewards for eternity.

Focal Passages: Romans 2; Matthew 7:2; Romans 3:10, 5:8-11, 2 Cor. 5:21.

God judges religious people, too:

• Read Romans 1:24-25. Who was Paul writing about in those two verses? Read Romans 2:1. Apparently those whom Paul condemned in Rom. 1:24-25 felt he wasn’t talking to them. What does he continue saying? Are we not all like this to some extent?
• Have you ever sinned, gotten victory over it, then vehemently judged a fellow Christian for falling into the same sin? What should you immediately do? Why do we not remember the grace God has given us?
• How can we train ourselves not to judge others because of their actions? Why should we?
• Who would you classify in the ‘religious’ group? Why are they so volatile against actions that are not what they consider to be Biblical?
• Read Matt. 7:2. Why do we like our own sins so much better than other people’s? Who’s is the only standard we should use as we interact with others?
• Read Rom. 2:2-11. If those who commit a sin judge others who commit the same sin, how will they be judged by God? We are judging without any grace; in vs. 4, how does God judge?

God reveals Himself not just through Creation, but also in our conscience:

• Read Rom. 2:12-16. What did Paul mean in verse 12? How will God judge the people? How will some be judged by their conscience? Why?
• How does verse 15 describe how those who have no law understand right and wrong?
• When we have secrets that need to be exposed, how will God do it? Read Mark 4:22. Do you believe this? Does it scare you? Why?
• Read Gen. 12:13-20. What happened here? How does this illustrate our Romans passage? Did Pharoah know God? How did he know taking another man’s wife was wrong?

It is not just who you are—it is what you do:

• Read Rom. 2:17-20. How did Paul summarize the Judaizers? Was he using sarcasm? Why?
• What are the things he accuses them of? Why such a stern warning? Read Matt. 23:25, 27.

These are two of many verses against the Pharisees. What was their sin?

• Read 2:21-24. What was Paul trying to get them to see? Did they seem to be setting standards for the citizens they themselves did not meet?
• We see this so much today! Why must our walk match our talk?

It is not just what you do—it is who you are:

• Read Rom. 2:25-29. Why does Paul flip the coin here? What does he now say? Isn’t he saying the same thing he just said, except in reverse?
• What matters to God (verse 29)? If your heart is not sold out to God, is He impressed with what brand T-shirt you wear? Why not?
• Read Rom. 3:10. Is there any hope for any of us? How? How does John 3:16 fit in here?

Read James 2:13. Were the Pharisees showing mercy? Can God still judge fairly by showing mercy? How?

• Read Rom. 6:23. What does He see when He looks at a Christ-follower? Read Rom. 5:8-11. What are the 9 clauses identifying Christians in this passage? Read 2 Cor. 5:21. How does it feel to know God’s wrath will not be on you when you die? Can news be any better?

THE FOUR PURPOSES OF THE BOOK OF ROMANS:

1) To announce Paul’s plans to visit the Christians in Rome, and to enlist support in his mission;
2) To teach the fundamental doctrine of salvation in order to fortify the believers against Judaizers;                                                                                                                                         3) To explain the unbelief of Israel and vindicate God’s faithfulness in his dealings with that nation;                                                                                                                                               4) To give practical instruction in Christian living.

Close:

What is the best news you can think of? Are you saved? It should be, then, the news that the wrath of God was put onto Jesus Christ in order for your sins to be forgiven. If you were a prisoner on death row, and received Jesus as Savior, can you imagine that at the moment of death, you will leave one room and enter another—in paradise, with Jesus for eternity?! Death is such a tiny moment of our lives (unless you have a lingering illness for a very long time), yet eternity is so long we can not grasp the reality. Here, on earth, we know only a life revolving around a clock and a calendar, and we have no conception of no light. There, in heaven, the light is Jesus; no time—it is forever; no tears, no sorrow, no pain, no illness, no death, no temptation, no hatred, no self-pity, –and we can go on for days, right? Life with God will be, as the Bible says, so wonderful that our eyes have not seen, nor our ears heard, nor has entered into the heart of man [we can’t even imagine it!], the things that God has prepared for those who love Him. Hallelujah!

By Sandy Day
June 08, 2025

YOU ASKED FOR IT: SETTING THE GUARDRAILS IN LIFE

May 25, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we finish the series ‘You Asked for It,’ as we have studied God’s will regarding the topics our congregation most wanted to hear. Our subject this Sunday is how to set boundaries that will prevent our spiraling down the sewer pipe of any habits or hangups detrimental to our spiritual life. There are so many things every day that would put us in bondage if we let them: addictions of technology, what we put in our mouth, what we listen to, what our eyes watch, and how we conduct ourselves in relationships to take us off the path God has set. Yet it is only by being so firmly rooted in God’s word that it convicts us instantly if sin enters our mind. We confess quickly, getting right with God at once, thus avoiding any such addictive behaviors. May we all be grounded in God’s word, loving Him with our whole heart.

Focal Passages: Psalms 119:9-16, Psalms 119:1-3, Proverbs 4:14-15.

Follow the rules of the road:

• Read Psalm 119:9. What a simple question, and simple answer this verse begins with! What does it mean, to keep yourself pure? Why is the answer so hard to carry out? What wars against our good intentions? How does Romans 7:15-25 fit into this analogy?
• What does God mean when He says to ‘keep His word’? What would you say if your child asks what that involves?
• How can we who are sinful raise children who are pure? When God saves us, are all of our sins forgiven? Do your children or spouse see you reading your Bible daily, pouring over the words so they go deep into your soul?

Notice the need for purity:

What shows us that we have a need for purity? How can we be blameless? How do we walk according to God’s instructions, seeking Him with all our hearts?

See the dangers:

As we walk the road of life, what are the dangers that we should heed? How does 1 Jn. 2:16-17 address our walk? How can we be in the world, but not part of it?

Do all you can to avoid the dangers:

Read Prov. 4:14-15. What are the five instructions in this passage to avoid evil in the world? Can anyone memorize them? (See Close). Why is it so hard to ‘Stay Away!’?

Knowing the signs along the way:

• Read Psa. 119:10-11. Most of us can think of a time—even recently—when we have looked fervently for an item we have misplaced. Can anyone share? How desperate were we to find it? How does that picture resonate with the word for ‘sought’ used in verse 10?
• When we received our driver’s license, we had to memorize the road signs, the highway laws, and hundreds of driving facts; it was necessary information in order to pass the driving test, so we did it. How is that applicable to the rules we need to learn about knowing how to act while on our Christian journey? What are three rules? (Answer: 1) Be holy; 2) Remember 1 Jn. 2:16-17; 3) Fully grasp that we have to know God’s word.
• How do we protect ourselves from Satan? Read Matt. 4:1-11. How did Jesus protect Himself in the wilderness? Why is it so vital to know God’s word in times of temptation? Read James 1:14. Why are we so easily tempted? What, according to this verse, does Satan use to tempt us? How does he know which bait to use, to get us to fall?
• What is our only hope of avoiding sinful situations? What always works??

Getting help when you need it:

• Read Psa. 119:12-13. What generally happens when a believer tries to clear up his/her addiction (of any type) on their own? What are some practical ways to handle this?
• There is no excuse for an adult in today’s world to not know God’s word. It is crucial for everything we face. So why is it so easy for people to disregard?

Celebrate your arrival:

• Read Psa. 119:14-16. As you study God’s word, what should you find yourself doing?
• We have almost all received love letters. How sad would it be for the sender to have seen us lay aside their letter, unopened? Why do we think God will excuse our busy lives, leaving His entire book of ‘love letters’ unread? How much of the Bible do you know?
• Read Eph. 5:11-14. Don’t go near anything that will distract you from Jesus: 1) If you are not addicted, don’t start! 2) If you are, get help! 3) Recognize the only way to stay out or get out is to be locked into God’s word!

CLOSE:

How many times have you heard someone say, “I have tried all my life to memorize Scripture, but I just can’t do it”? We may sympathize with them, knowing we have struggled. Or, we may not say anything. Or, the possibility is, we have discovered ways that help us learn, and we can encourage them. For instance, some people—not artists, just normal people—will draw a ‘stick’ picture for each phrase of a verse, illustrating the concept (i.e., ‘Jesus said, “Lazarus, come forth!”.’ Jn. 11:43). That would be easy for most young children—and for us. Soon, you would find yourself mentally picturing what you have drawn. Or what about the person who says they can’t memorize, but suddenly, in a conversation about baseball teams, they give you the statistics on all games during the season, and tell why they think the team should go to the finals? Perhaps they mean it is their mindset, not their ability, that is the crucial area. Scripture doesn’t interest them as deeply. Another idea is to teach your children one verse a week—not necessarily difficult ones, but meaningful to their walk in the world. Between two years old to five, they will have learned 152 verses. By ten years of age, they will know over 400 verses, and can have gone to more difficult passages. In simpler terms, you will have established a habit that may last for the rest of their lives, and you will have learned the verses with them. This knowledge may save them from some very tough situations as they become teenagers, and you will be able to see the fruit of your labors. Bottom line? There’s no excuse for not ‘hiding His word in your heart so you might not sin against God’ (Psa. 119:11)!

By Sandy Day

May 25, 2025

YOU ASKED FOR IT: KIDS—RAISING THEM RIGHT

May 11, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we continue the series of questions from the congregation concerning topics they would like answered. Parents asked, how do we raise children who will grow up to be Christ-followers? There is no better teaching technique than being a role model for your children. As Pastor Jonathan said, “Modeling Christian behavior is indispensable in raising our kids the right way.” Many of us cling to Proverbs 22:6, ‘Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it.’ St. Augustine’s mother knew this promise from the word of God, and shed many tears with fervent prayers for her son. For many years, he ‘wallowed’ in the pigpen of riotous living before allowing his heart to be softened by God. May we all keep such fervent prayers for our wayward children going heavenward, meanwhile exercising all godliness as we teach our young children or grandkids by our example the rewards of following and loving God.

Focal Passages: Proverbs 22:1-11; 10:9; 11:2, 3, 6; 16:18; 19:17; 28:25, 27; 1:7; 15:29; 27:19.

Give them the right name:

• Read Prov. 22:6 and 22:1-3. What did God mean when He inspired Solomon to write, ‘a good name is better than riches’? Literally, it means to have a good ‘reputation.’ Very few young people see the wisdom of choosing a good reputation over wealth; how can you teach them that wealth (as Prov. 23:5 says) ‘makes itself wings and flies away’ while one’s reputation endures for a lifetime? Is a good name earned or given?
• Does our financial status make us more loved by God? In fact, why may wealth be a time of testing?
• What kind of behavior should be modeled in verse 3? Why does someone with no common sense go headlong into trouble, time after time? How do Prov. 10:9 and 11:3 illustrate these two questions?
• What character qualities will model a good reputation?

Give them the right example:

• Read Prov. 22:4-6. Did you mentally translate verse 4 to mean ‘humility results in riches’? What can ‘wealth, honor, and life’ mean if it is not material riches?
• What are the thorns and snares in the wide path of the wicked in today’s world? How does one avoid these traps? In 1 Pet. 5:8 and Eph. 6:16, who sets the traps? How do you teach your child to avoid the snares?
• If a child is taught by a parent who portrays pride or arrogance, will he learn by what the parent says, or what he sees? How do we teach children to choose the right path?
• When is the best time to begin to train your child? When God’s word says ‘train up a child in the way he should go,’ is this meaning his head knowledge or his heart knowledge?

Give them a lesson in giving:

• How does a godly parent teach a child to handle finances, possessions and debt? Can covetousness be taught? How does one teach a child they do not get everything they ask for—and why are so many parents today blind as to where this will lead eventually?
• Read Prov. 22:7-9. What does verse 7 mean? How can you teach this principle to your child?
• In verse 8 we see a law of sowing and reaping; Tony Evans said, ‘If you plant tomatoes, you won’t get pumpkins.’ How do we teach our children that every action has an equal and opposite reaction?
• Will a parent who exercises genuine care and concern for other people probably raise a child who mimics these qualities? Will they see the happiness that giving of one’s possessions or money gives the generous parent?

Give them a love for righteousness:

• Read Prov. 22:10-11. Have you ever been in a group where a ‘scoffer’ was being disorderly? Why do we not turn this person out, as the Bible says? If we did, what would happen? Why do we put up with raucous behavior in the name of ‘showing love’ to the one who is being obnoxious?
• Do you desire a pure heart for yourself? What are some of the things you do to see that your heart is not corrupted?
• We do what we love. If this is true, why do we often do what is wrong?

CLOSE:

The Scripture is always right when giving promises, principles, and laws—and everything else. It will always be, as Peter wrote, everything we need to living a life that is pleasing to God. It would seem another extension of the Proverb that says ‘a good name is rather to be desired than great riches’ is not one we think much about: the Bible often points out the name of a person is their heritage. Is this true or coincidental? Think of the names throughout the Bible: Peter was called the Rock when Christ renamed him Cephas. He definitely became a rock of strength, immoveable in his stand for the truth of the resurrection. Jacob was a ‘heel-catcher’ but God renamed him Israel (one who prevails with God) after his conversion. Nabal, in 1 Sam. 25, had the reputation of being harsh and mean. We later find his name meant “fool” or folly. Why would a parent give a child a name with such a meaning? Perhaps we need to be more careful of the names we give our children, so they attain to them in adulthood!

Parents can speak, preach, teach, and give everything to their children; in reality, the kids will always learn more from the example they see daily than they ever will by what they are told. (As in, ‘It’s not what you say, it’s what you do!’) A.W. Tozer wrote that as disciples we should be like diamonds. A diamond does not change in the dark, during a storm, or if it’s wet or dry—it is always the same, able to be a diamond. That’s how we should live our Christian life. Are you committed to the Lord with all your heart? That will be the test as your child grows up.

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                                               May 11, 2025

YOU ASKED FOR IT: CAN SALVATION BE LOST?

April 27, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

We are beginning a new series today, with five weeks of questions from the congregation. Today’s question, ‘Can Salvation Be Lost,’ is very pertinent. Most people have asked themselves, upon an occasion of sin, if they are truly saved. Scripture has multiple assurances for anyone who genuinely desires to be a ‘saved’ child of God, loving Him as a Father. As we study this important sermon, come with a willing heart, not being swayed by fallible men, and be satisfied by the promises of God, illuminated by the presence of God the Holy Spirit, as He indwells your life. He’ll never let you go.

Focal Passages: John 10:22-30; Romans 8:37-39; Ephesians 1:9-14; 2 Peter 2:20-22; Galatians 5:19-21; Matthew 24:3-13.

The Promise of the Savior:

• When did God first promise a Savior to man? What were the circumstances? Read Rev. 13:8. When did God determine Jesus would be sacrificed for man’s sin? When did God write our ‘books’ and know us intimately? (Psa. 139).
• Why did Jesus come to the earth? (Jn. 3:16). What are some verses you know describing Jesus’ advent? (Heb. 10:5, Mark 10:45, Jn. 3:13, Heb. 10:10). Why did men refuse to believe He is the Son of God? (Jn. 6:41-42)
• Read John 10:22-25, 1:5. What were the Jews complaining about in vs. 24? In Jn. 10:1-18, what had Jesus told them? Read Lk. 19:10. Who did Jesus come to save? Read Rom. 3:23. Who is lost? Who can be saved?
• Read Jn. 10:26-30. What happens when we ‘hear His voice’ and ‘follow Jesus’? Why does Jesus say “My” sheep—do we already belong to Him when we hear and follow? In vs. 25, what does He give us? In vv. 28-29, can we be removed from His hand? What did the Father do? Did we initiate this? Read Jn 1:11-13.
• Salvation is in Christ alone, through faith alone: if we are ‘in Christ,’ and cannot be taken out of His hands, why do we worry? Will He ever let us go?

The Power of the Promise:

• Read Rom. 8:37-39. Throughout history, who have been some conquerors who defied all the odds? What does it mean, to be a conqueror? How do you know you are a super-conqueror? What cannot separate you from the love of God in Christ? What all does ‘things present or things to come’ encompass?
• What has God promised when we repent? (Isa. 1:18, 38:17, 44:22; Jer. 31:34, 50:20; Psa. 51:7, 103:12; Micah 7:19).
• Read Rom. 6:4. Whose power are we utilizing when we walk in newness of life?

The Permanence of the Gift:

• Read Eph. 1:9-14, 3:1-6, and Col. 1:24-27. What was Paul speaking of as being a mystery? How was God going to bring this about (vs. 10)? How are we ‘sealed’? When did this happen? Will He ever leave us? How does vs. 14 refer to Him?
• If God initiated salvation by faith alone, in Christ alone, giving us a gift of salvation as a free gift, and keeping it by His power so that nothing can remove it from us, why do we fret about whether we are saved or not?

The Problems You May Hear:

• Read 2 Pet. 2:20-22. Who is Peter speaking of? People heard the gospel and it sounded good. They wanted to try it. Is this how we come to Christ? Did they repent of their sins? Were they saved? What is the cost of following Jesus?
• Who can you think of who heard Jesus’ preaching but never made a commitment to love Him, forsaking their sinfulness? Can you make a plan to live right, without the power of God? Read 2 Cor. 5:17. How can you liken this to a ‘diet,’ or new eating plan, like Weight Watchers, Keto, Carnivore? Why do some think the cost is too high?
• Read Gal. 5:19-21. Why are these fleshly lifestyles listed? What are ‘such things’? What is the keyword in vs. 21? Which will keep us from God: an act of sin or a habit of sin?
• Read Matt. 24:3-13. Why are these things so scary? Is it because we are afraid we may give in? What does vs. 13 say? What is meant, ‘They didn’t get saved because they endured, they endured because they were saved’?

The Protection of the Father:

• Read 1 Pet. 1:3-5. What is the difference between ‘hope’ and a ‘living hope’? What if Jesus had just ‘hoped’ God would resurrect Him? Is that the depth of our hope in God?
• Are we able to understand the words ‘imperishable, undefiled, unfading’? If our eternal inheritance is described with those words, how unfathomable is that? The only One who could do something like that is God—who created all things.
• God, who is the ‘sustainer’ of everything, guards our inheritance; is His power adequate for such a thing? Why can we rest in Him?
• What are the two words used over and over in these passages that should give us the full assurance that everything in God’s hands will be okay?

CLOSE:

What an amazing amount of comfort, reassurance, hope, and security—and hundreds of other synonyms—are contained in this sermon! All of us have doubts at one time or another, but hopefully they have been given a rest, never to be pulled out in the daylight and fretted over again. Has this made peace in your heart? Don’t let Satan destroy your faith.

If, by chance (or the predetermined will of God!), you heard the service and questioned your salvation, don’t stop until you have come to a firm knowledge that you prefer God over the silver and gold of the world. May you seek to draw near Him until your soul is satisfied.

By Sandy Day

April 27, 2025

RESTORING EDEN: PROPHECIES OF THE PASSOVER LAMB

April 13, 2025

 Charles Billingsley

Have you taken time to study the prophecies of the Old Testament as they foretell the coming of Messiah? There are more than three hundred, all foretold by God when He ‘breathed’ the Scriptures to men, each writing in their own way—but they were always from God. For a Man to come who could fulfill even eight of that number would be one chance in one quadrillion (1 with 18 zeros behind it!)—an impossibility. Jesus fulfilled all the ones referring to the first coming of the Messiah, with a portion yet to be satisfied by His second coming. How incredible is our God! Today we look through some of the marvelous foretellings of Christ. Remember, people had their minds so set on their own idea of what the coming Redeemer would be like, they rejected this One who met every single prophecy concerning His first coming. 1 Corinthians 2:8 tells us that ‘if they had understood it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. Don’t let that be you.

Focal Passages: All passages today are included with each bullet point, in bold.

Fulfilled prophecies Reveal God’s plan: There is only One who could be the Messiah, Jesus Christ.

• Read 2:23, 4:13. Why did Jesus make his home in Capernaum? Read Luke 4:14-30, Isa. 61:1-3. How did the people react when Jesus taught in the synagogue (vv. 28-30)? What was the main reason people rejected Jesus as the Messiah (John 6:42)?
• In Luke 4:19, why did Jesus stop before quoting the final words found in the similar passage in 61:2, ‘And the day of vengeance of our God’?
• Read 3:15. From the time of Moses, when this history of the world was recorded (2 Tim. 3:16), men began looking for evidence of a future descendant of Eve who would bruise the head of the serpent, defeat evil, and offer salvation for mankind. How many other prophecies were eventually found in the OT?
• What is the probability one man could fulfill even eight of these prophecies? The actual number is 1 to the 17^thpower, or 1 in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000. Jesus Christ fulfilled all of them! That would be 1 followed by 157 zeros! Definitely, God is in control.

Fulfilled prophecies Remind us of God’s promise: There is only One who could come from heaven to dwell with mankind—Jesus Christ.

• Read Isaiah 7:14. How was Jesus prophesied to come? Read Isaiah 9:6-7. Does this description sound like a ‘normal’ child to you? Are there other impossibilities in these two passages? Read Micah 5:2.
• Read 11:1-5, Numbers 24:17, and Hos. 11:1 for more prophecies of His birth.

Fulfilled prophecies Restore our faith in God’s provision:

• Read 53. What are some of the prophecies of Jesus’ crucifixion? Read Acts 4:12. How many people do you know that reject this truth? Why do they?
• As we enter Passion Week, do you know the meaning or activity of the days prior to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection? Also, note how often they refer to Him being a sacrifice. Discuss as many of these that you have time for. Palm Sunday. Zech. 9:9. The arrival of the King; Holy Monday. 8:13, Jer. 7:3-4, Isa. 56:7-8. Holy Tuesday. Jesus antagonizes the religious leaders: Isa. 49:1-7.  Spy Wednesday. His betrayal: Psa. 41:9, Mark 14:10-11.  Maundy Thursday. Love one another. The Messiah would be cut off: Daniel, and John 11:50-52. Jesus was betrayed for 30 pieces of silver: Zech. 11:12: Forsaken by His followers: Zech. 13:7, Mark 14:50. Jesus suffers: Matt. 26:66. Condemned: Psa. 69:9, 19-20. Jesus tells Peter he will deny Him: Luke 22:54-62. All of those happened on Thursday!
• Good Friday: 1) Isaiah prophesied Jesus Christ would be sacrificed as the Passover Lamb of God: 1 Cor. 5:7, 1 Pet, 1:18-20, Isa. 53:7. 2) Scourging and mocking: Matt. 27:26-30, Isa. 50:6. 3) Jesus mutilated: John 19:1, Psa. 22:17. 4) False witnesses: Mark 14:55-57, Psa. 35:11. 5) Jesus gives no defense: Matt. 27:13-14, Isa. 53:7. 6) Sin offering for the world: John 19:16-19, Isa. 53:4-6, 10-11. 7) Numbered with transgressors: Luke 23:32-33, Isa. 53:12. 8) Jesus would be pierced: John 20:25-27, Psa. 22:16. 9) Parting His garments: John 19:24, Psa. 22:18. 10) Vinegar to drink: Matt. 27:34, Psa. 69:21. 11) Many watching: Luke 23:48, Psa. 22:17. 12) Jesus’ family and friends would watch: Luke 23:49, Psa. 38:11. 13) People shake their heads: Matt. 27:39-40, Psa. 109:25. 14) Specific words prophesied: Matt. 27:43-44, Psa. 22:8. 15) Intercession for sinners: Luke 23:34, Isa. 53:12. 16) Jesus’ thoughts: Matt. 27:46, Psa. 22:1. 17) Jesus pierced with spear: John 19:34, 37, Zech. 12:10. 18) Jesus commits His spirit to God: Luke 23:46, Psa. 31:5. 19) Jesus’ last words: Psa. 22:31, Luke 19:30. 20) No bones broken: Ex. 12:46, John 19:32-33, 36, Psa. 34:20. 21) Rich man’s tomb: Matt. 27:57-60, Isa. 53:8-9. 22) Betrayal money: Matt. 27:3-7.
• Saturday: Jesus lay in the tomb Sunday: HE IS RISEN!!!

Fulfilled prophecies Return us to God’s paradise: there is only one way to be in a right relationship with God—through His Son, Jesus Christ.

• Read Luke 22:19-20 and Phil. 2:8-11. As we close this time of reflection on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, discuss the many moments throughout the Passion Week that impress you, knowing no-one in your circle would have suffered as Jesus did, for people who don’t care, those who have wicked agendas, or who work evil plans, yet He still died so they could have life.
• PRAISE HIM as you prepare your heart for Resurrection Sunday!

By Sandy Day

April 13, 2025

RIGHT WAY LIVING: THE GIFT OF THORNS

March 30, 2025

 Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Today we finish Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians with the final two chapters. Paul had spent much time praying for this beloved body of believers who were targeted by Judaizers as they challenged the apostle. He addresses on-going issues in the church, then defends his apostleship, authority, and finally his ministry as they continually undercut his credibility. Charles Billingsley will summarize the different passages, but focus on the lesson we can learn as Paul discusses his ‘thorn.’ This topic shows God’s amazing goodness each of us can apply to those circumstances, people or situations not of our choosing that come into our lives to create upheaval. Paul shares how God allowed a ‘thorn in his flesh’ to keep him humble. Paul learned God’s power would be strong when he was weak and he could then glory in his thorn, knowing God would get him through every trial. We will summarize the chapters, then return to 12:7-10 to see how our own ‘thorns’ can be gifts to grow us in Christ.

Focal Passage: 2 Corinthians 12-13.

Paul’s Boasting:

• 2 Cor.11:18. Paul introduces his topic to refute the boasting of the Judaizers.

Paul’s Blessing:

• Chapter 12:1-6. In these verses. Paul recounts an experience of being caught up to the ‘third heaven’ (the abode of God). This was one of several visions Paul had.

Paul’s Brokenness:

• In verses 14-21, Paul’s heart is broken as he looks toward the time he will be able to visit the Corinthians again, but perhaps find many of them unrepentant.

Paul’s Boldness:

Chapter 13:1-10. Paul chastises the believers, warning them to be sure they are actually saved lest they be disqualified. He says he will not ‘spare’ them when he returns.

Paul’s Benediction:

• In verses 11-13, Paul ends his letter, encouraging the believers to keep moving toward the perfect will of God.

FOCUS: Paul’s Burden—God’s strategy for our Humility 2 Cor. 12:7-10:

• Read 2 Cor. 12:7-10. Paul had to refute the boasting of the Judaizers by ‘boasting’ of his own amazing visions and revelations. In verse 7, what were some of the marvelous miracles Paul was known for (Acts 19:11-12, 13:9-12, 14:9-11, 16:22-34)? In order to keep him humble, what did God allow to happen to Paul?
• Where did the ‘thorn’ come from? Who was ultimately behind the scene? Why did Satan have to get God’s permission to persecute Paul (read Job 1:6-12, 2:1-7, Luke 22:31-32)? What were some of the possibilities as to what the ‘thorn’ could have been? What could the thorn be used for? (See below)*
• What did Paul eventually ask for? How many times? What did God say?
• What did God mean by saying His strength would be adequate in weakness? Why is God’s answer to Paul something we should seek as well?
• What did God say He would provide? How does He mean that?
• Why is Paul’s response so amazing? What should it teach us?
• Does this help you view your thorns differently now?

*God uses thorns in our lives to accomplish several things:
To humble us and keep us from becoming conceited;
To break us from pride, or from sin, so that we stay in a state of brokenness;
To correct us;
To protect us from ourselves;
To shape us, for He is the Potter, we are the clay;
To use us.

 WHEN YOU ENDURE YOUR THORNS:

You are being sanctified for His service.

Christ is magnified in your service.

Others are edified by your service.

Close:

Can you even begin to imagine how broken-hearted Paul was to hear of the factions that continued within the Corinthian church? Part of these believers wanted the ability to pick new leaders, others didn’t, etc.—the same as today when a congregation argues over carpet colors and music. Meanwhile, the Judaizers sowed seeds of discontent because they thought themselves to be godlier than those whose only claim to salvation was the gospel of Jesus Christ and the letters and teachings of the apostle Paul or men sent by Paul. Judaizers felt nothing except the laws of Moses, and the 600 additional laws must be kept for salvation. Paul shared his heart in 2 Cor. 11:28, as he said his deep concern for the churches was with him every day. It is the same with any godly minister, especially today, when they know the amount of sin represented by the congregation. We have to always remember the three steps to a ‘perfect’ faith: read God’s Word daily, pray constantly, and be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s indwelling. May we, too, continue toward that completeness in 13:11 that will find us perfect as we stand before God, clothed in the righteous robe of Jesus Christ.

By Sandy Day
March 30, 2025

RIGHT WAY LIVING: GAME-CHANGING GENEROSITY

March 16, 2025

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Do you consider yourself to be a generous person? Have you ever considered giving might be a ‘gift’ from God? You probably know people who are the first to volunteer when asked in a group setting who would be willing to serve, go, pay, or whatever. Others sit there and try to mentally go through their commitments, and the moment passes by. Others may think for a second but decide no, things are too tight right now, either schedule or money. But God offers rich benefits to those who give generously throughout their lives, like the widow who gave all of her resources: two mites. Do you realize this would be 1/8 of a penny in today’s money? He gives blessings of joy, happiness that comes from seeing others benefit from your giving, serving, sharing, talents, and more. God wants to use you and all that you are to further His kingdom.

Focal Passages: 2 Corinthians 8:1-15, 9:6-15.

The Grace of Generosity: 8:1-7.                                                                                                                 

• Read 2 Cor. 8:1-2. Paul seems to be sharing some exciting news here. What was it? What did the word ‘grace’ mean here? What six words were used, bearing witness of God’s gift to them? What words were opposite in meaning?
• Read verse 3-5. In what manner did they give? What else did they do? What were their own circumstances like? Prior to giving their gifts, what had they done?
• In vs. 6, Can you tell what Paul is gently saying? (Read vv. 10-11. Had the Corinthians tried to get an offering generated, but eventually dropped the idea? Is this what Paul is trying to get them to see?)
• Read vs. 7. What are all the things Paul praises the Corinthians for? What is the last phrase, ‘see that you abound in this grace also’ referring to?
• How are you abounding in the gifts you give to others?

The example of Christ: 8:8-15

• Read verses 8-9. What does Paul mean that he is ‘testing the sincerity of their love’? How does he liken Christ’s gift of Himself to them?
• 10-11 were covered above. Read verses 12-15. What is the first thing the Lord looks for in any believer? Why does He not use someone who doesn’t want to be used? If you truly would give a great gift if you had it, do you give of your small gift whenever the opportunity presents itself? Read Mark 12:42-44.
• What is Paul trying to get across by the example of the children of Israel in the wilderness? Why would there have been different amounts of manna gathered? When it was all put together, was there enough for everyone?

The abundance of God’s grace: 9:6-11

• Read vv. 6-8 Can someone give an example of someone sowing sparingly or bountifully? Why is God giving us the choice? What does it mean if you ‘begrudge’ what you’ve given? What is giving out of ‘necessity’?
• What is the wonderful characteristic of God in verse 7? Compare it to Malachi 3:8-12. What is God promising Israel? Why is Israel called the ‘Breadbasket of the World’?
• Read verses 9-11. What all is promised in this passage?

The benefit of gratitude: 9:12-15

• Read vv. 12-15. When you give, what happens?
• Why will your giving point people to Christ?

TAKE AWAYS:

Be genuinely excited about giving opportunities.

Never be ashamed at the size of your gift… they are all significant.

Use every giving opportunity to point people to Christ, not to yourself.

Close: As we look today at the statements made about giving—of your money, your time, your talents, or whatever you can part with—you would have a very long list of the potential life-changing (game changing!) ways giving impacts: it will impact the giver, the receiver, others who see and may be convicted, how Christ looks at your giving, and on and on. Give even when times are most difficult; be a giver that makes a difference; giving shows the essence of our faith, and more. Giving shows our trust in God. And grace—which a follower of Christ must give—needs to be an integral part of your life, for without it you will not be generous. Think about your opportunities to give something this week.

By Sandy Day
March 16, 2025                               

RIGHT WAY LIVING: AIM HIGH: IT’S WORTH IT!

March 02, 2025

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

This past week our church family experienced several deaths: two, in particular, were difficult because one involved a young child who had not had time to live his life, while another was a beloved man in his prime. Not that it takes away from the pain of losing the older people, but a person in their elderly years realizes death can result at almost any moment, while losing a child is traumatic. We find comfort in knowing that to be ‘absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.’ In today’s passage, Paul speaks of the glory that will be ours when we make the transition from this life to eternity. So often it’s not the fear of dying that is the issue—it’s the uncertainty of what we will go through to make that short trip that concerns us. Join us as we read Paul’s anticipation of the life we will live when we finish our ministry here on earth.

Focal Passages: 2 Corinthians 5:1-21, Col. 3:2-4.

“What is” cannot be compared to what will be:                                                                                                                 

• Read Col. 3:2-4. Why does Paul tell us to keep in mind the life we will have in heaven? Read Rom. 8:11, Eph. 2:5, Col. 2:12, 1 Jn. 3:14. Why should death not cause us anxiety? Why will it be exciting when Christ is revealed to the world?
• Read 2 Cor. 5:1-5. Paul begins by saying ‘we know’; how do we know? What is the earthly house he is referring to? Why does he say we have in heaven an eternal ‘building’? Who makes our eternal body?
• In vs. 4, why do we groan and complain while we are in this body? Why is it so easy to allow our present problems to keep us from trusting God? Do you truly anticipate heaven or are you so caught up with your life on earth that you desire to wait?
• What statement is made in both verse 1 and verse 5? Why, since it is God who has made our eternal body, should we have peace about it? What guarantee does He give us for our future? If God gives us the Holy Spirit as a guarantee, will He take Him back if we sin again?
• How often do you consciously think of the Holy Spirit indwelling you? Do you ever ask for His help? Why should the knowledge that He is within you keep you from getting discouraged over problems you encounter?

“What is” can be made better by what will be:

• Read verses 6-10. What does Paul mean that we are always confident about? Explain how being ‘at home’ in the body would mean we are absent from the Lord. Where are the two places believers are found today? Is this what Paul meant?
• Have you been in a situation where you thought you might die? How did you react? So, if we walk by faith, not by sight, will we be ready if God calls us home? Is your faith in God so strong you are willing to die the moment He calls your name? How did Paul know how he would react in a death situation?
• What is he referring to when he says we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ? How will that effect how we live here?

“What will be” is not just for us:

• Read vv. 11-13. Read in NLT if possible. What does Paul mean by the terror of the Lord? Because we have a healthy fear of the Lord, what will we do in vs. 11? Why should we have a clear conscience? Do you fixate on what others think of you?
• In verse 13, what is Paul saying about what people think of him? Read Acts 16:24. Is this what he meant that some might think we are crazy?
• Read verses 14-16. In a very human perspective, think of husbands or wives who do so much for the spouse to make him/her happy. What is the parallel Paul is saying that if we love Christ so much it will be a joy to serve Him and try to reach as many people as possible, no matter what the world says about us?
• Do you love Him so much that you want others to be brought into the kingdom? What are some specific things you do to make this happen?

“What will be” will be worth the effort:

• Read vv. 18-21. As you heard these verses read, what word did you notice? What does reconcile mean? What was the first use of reconcile? Who initiated it? Who needed to be reconciled—man or God?
• What is the second use? What did Paul mean that God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself? What is the third use? Where did God give man the responsibility to reconcile sinners to Himself? What greater love could there be than verse 21?

Take Aways:
Don’t allow the pain of this present day to cloud the view of your eternal day.                                                                                             See the importance of sharing the hope of eternity.                                                                                                                        Let the hope of eternity be the catalyst for joy today.

Close: One of the hardest things we have to do daily is overcome the trials and crises of our lives, for we end up losing our joy, and it takes our thoughts off of eternity. Not only do we often lose our joy, but we also are diverted from thinking intentionally about the role of the Holy Spirit in our life. How will the loss of these two important factors in our day affect us? One, it can be very discouraging to focus on our inability to control most of our lives. If you think about it, as soon as one other person enters your day, you lose control. The only thing you can ultimately control is your attitude toward things that are happening. Second, the more aware you are of the Holy Spirit—God, by the way,—indwelling you, the more you realize you have power from Him to react in godly ways. Do you need to let go of being the one who is ‘right’? Ask Him for help. Need patience with the children? Ask Him to help you. Use the Take Aways above to reset your thinking this next week and see how much better it goes.

By Sandy Day
March 02, 2025

RIGHT WAY LIVING: THE POWER OF MINISTRY

February 16, 2025

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today, we continue our series, Right Way Living in a Wrong Way World, as we go through 2 Corinthians. None of us would deny we are living in a world out of control and going the wrong way. The good news is, 2 Pet. 1:3 tells us ‘His divine power has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness.’ We really don’t have to worry about anything.  All God has asked of us is to love Him and love other people with all that we are. When we asked the Lord to save us and forgive our sins, and we turned from our wicked ways and sought His face, He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit. He is living and active in our lives, helping us through every difficulty, no matter how challenging. God the Spirit indwelling us as we go through this life and a future with God for eternity. What a win-win situation!

Focal Passages: 2 Corinthians 3-4, Rom. 1:16.

The ministry of the Spirit:                                                                                                                 

• Read 2 Cor. 3:1-6. Who was trying to destroy the church in Corinth, getting the Christians off the right path? What was their purpose? What were they saying? Why were they undermining Paul’s authority?
• In verses 2-3, what was Paul saying about their lifestyle? Think of your own life: are others able to look at what you say and do, and know that you are a believer, because your heart is a reflection of the work of Christ? Read Jer. 31:33. Who does the work? What is the visible evidence that you belong to Christ?
• Who gets the glory for our salvation? Are we capable of anything on our own? Is this why the world is in turmoil right now—that so many people are trying their own way and not looking to God? What point was Paul trying to make about the law? If we read 20—the law given to Moses—will that save us? What is the only thing that brings salvation? How did the law prepare the way for the New Covenant?
• How is it possible to show that God the Holy Spirit resides in you by the actions you perform when no one is around? What is some invisible evidence you belong to Christ? Are you listening each moment to the Holy Spirit?

The ministry of the promise:

• Read verses 7-8. Why did Paul refer to the law as a “minister of death”? How did the law of Moses and the New Covenant of grace differ? Think of Matt. 5: what point was Jesus making about the law?
• Read verses 9-10. What was the point of the OT law if it wasn’t salvation? (Gal. 3:24). What is man’s greatest need? What is God’s greatest gift? Read Gal. 2:21. Is Paul saying in verse 10 that there is no comparison between the law ‘of death’ and grace?
• How did everything change when salvation was available to us, and we became indwelt by God the Holy Spirit?
• Read vv. 14-18. Paul was a minister to the Gentiles; did he have any problem with them accepting Jesus as Savior? Read Rom. 9:1-5. How badly did he wish for the Jews to become saved? In verse 14, why did most Jews not accept Jesus? In verse 16, what is the only thing that takes away the veil that blinds the eyes of the unsaved?
• In verse 18, how does the Holy Spirit change everything?

The ministry of the gospel:

• Read 2 Cor. 4:1-6. What is the superb result of having the ministry of the Holy Spirit living within us? Is this your attitude when things get so heavy on your heart? Read John 6:67-69. Is this your ‘war cry’ when you feel like quitting?
• In verse 2, what is Paul saying his conduct is like? Read John 1:47. Is that what Paul meant? Can that be said about you? Are there little things that you do that are deceitful?
• In verses 5-6, think of Paul’s humility. What are some examples that come to mind?
• What greater gift could you have than salvation, with the Holy Spirit being with you, in you, and helping you at all times?

Take Aways:
Spend more time recognizing the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life.
Spend less time focusing on the performance of your faith.
Never lose sight of the wonder of the gospel.

Close:

Have you given much thought to the amount of time you spend on your body, your clothes, and your priorities? For instance, in the morning you take time to make yourself presentable, and perhaps during the day or evening, if you have a special appointment, you may do all of it over again. Another shower, outfit, and so much more. For some women, two hours is about right each time, for men, probably not nearly that much. And we could go down the list with everything that falls into each category of our day. Soon, it’s bedtime. And yet—those are not important in the grand scheme of things if you remember that our “vessel” (our body) is nothing but clay, or dust, and yet we pamper it like it’s the ultimate prize. But the internal—the heart, soul, mind, and spirit, that’s where the focus needs for be. That should be our priority. When we get up in the morning, we need to set the tone for the day by talking to God. Choose joy! Read your Bible and pray. Be certain God is first in your life. Check the attitude of your heart, making certain all is well there. Make sure the humility is there, the gratefulness, the love, the holiness, the purity. God the Holy Spirit is dwelling there—let Him feel at home.

By Sandy Day
February 16, 2025

RIGHT WAY LIVING: LIVE LIKE NO ONE ELSE

February 2, 2025

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

So often we think that our generation does not have problems like previous generations, or conversely, that no one else has had it as rough as we do. Both of these assumptions are false, as is shown by today’s sermon from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthian church. These people lived in a city where the lifestyle of sin makes us shudder. For instance, the temple on top of the mount had one thousand prostitutes always available. Yet we have the internet, phones, or computers that will give us the same sinful scenarios in a second—in the privacy of our home, where no one sees. We can cite example after example of sin, wickedness, and so much more that we can partake in without others having a clue. Like Paul, we want to present a clear conscience to others. Let us conduct ourselves daily—when no one is looking—as godly as we do on Sundays.

Focal Passages: 2 Corinthians 1:12-24.

Live differently than anyone else:                                                                                                                 

• Read 2 Cor. 1:12-14. Why did the Corinthians have a hard time living the Christian life? Was it so very different than times today? Name some issues that are prevalent in our society that were rampant then as well?
• What was another word Paul could have used rather than boast? Why did he talk of how he, Silas, and Timothy had conducted themselves? What is the modern-day word parents use instead of conducted? What did he mean by “godly sincerity”?
• What is fleshly wisdom? (It is the expression of sinful man’s revolt against the sovereignty of God in being and knowledge). Read Prov. 2:6-7. Where does godly wisdom come from? How does one live in godly wisdom?
• Paul had lived at least eighteen months in the presence of the Corinthians; what would they have seen from his simplicity and godly wisdom that would have been different from their city friends? Do you think Paul lived with any regret?
• Why did Paul say he had a clear conscience? If Christ walked into your house right now, would you be okay with that, or would you want to get rid of some things as fast as possible? Would you be embarrassed for Christ to see your movies or books?

Be ready to change:

• Read verses 15-18, What is Paul saying in these two verses? Have you ever said you would do something for someone and then had to say you can’t? Is that always truthful, or do you make an excuse, wishing you had never committed yourself?
• There is a phrase that used to be often added when we committed to do something; does anyone recall what it was? (If God is willing). How do we know whether a barrier is a challenge from Satan or a restraint from God?
• How will we know if a change of plans has come from the Lord?

God’s ways are best for you:

• Read vv. 19-20. Why did Paul call Jesus the “Son of God”? Who else had done so? Had there been anything in Paul’s actions or character that was contrary to his teaching and preaching? Think back to last week when we read of the perils he had undergone; why would he continue to follow Christ—when on every hand were people who would hurt him—if he was not completely sold out to Him?
• Paul asks the question, does Jesus waffle on his promises? How do we know? Read Luke 1:70. Have His promises always been carried out?

God’s plan includes God’s presence:

• Read verses 21-24. Do we have to worry that God will change His mind about us being saved? How do you know? What does the word sealed mean in vs. 22? What else has He done to make us His own?
• Are we conscious all the day that the Holy Spirit is indwelling us, and therefore knows all we do, all we think, and all we say, good and bad? If you train yourself to be cognizant of this, what part of your behavior would it change? If we are aware the Holy Spirit is within us, how will that give us assurance that God is trustworthy?
• Read Heb. 13:5. What promise from God do we have that we can believe? What does that mean to you?

Take Aways:
Spend more time being influenced by Him rather than by the world;                                                                                                                                                          Hold your plans loosely for He may change them;
Listen to the Spirit’s voice.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Close:

God’s presence is something we often take for granted—unfortunately. If we treated our spouse or our children with the same languid attitude, how would they take it? Yet the Holy Spirit is within us—even though we cannot understand it—and knows us intimately. Do we give Him a thought as we go about our day? Understandably, we are involved in tasks at home or work that take our complete attention, but even so, in the back of our mind we should be as aware of His presence as we would be of a friend who could be sitting in the living room. If you’ve ever cared for an aged parent, you know no matter what you are doing, you have an innate sense of their presence. You know where they are in the house, and probably, what they are doing. You know if you should be talking to them, or letting them be quiet. You can be at peace because you know the relationship between you is right and you are doing your best to see to their care. Granted, the Holy Spirit does not need our care, but you can still be sure the relationship is in a good place, that everything is right between you, and you are comfortable in and with His presence. He should be that real, at all times.

By Sandy Day
February 02, 2025

LOVE PEOPLE

January 19, 2025

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Last week we read Matthew 22, as Jesus said the greatest commandment is to “love God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your spirit,”—our sermon last Sunday. But Jesus went further. He said the “second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” Did you ask during the week, (knowing this was coming), “How do I love people I can’t stand?” Today, we are hearing Pastor tell us how to love people. As last week, today the answer is simple. As last week, today the doing is hard. Who bugged you while you were trying to listen—the people two rows over who were talking during the whole message? A nearby member who was playing a card game on her cell the whole message? The person who cut in front of you on the way home? Love. It’s important. It’s necessary. But see them with God’s eyes.

Focal Passages: Matt. 3:13-17, 5:43-45, 27:57-61, Mark 2:1-12, Luke 7:36-50, 8:26-39,10:25-37, John 4:5-26, 5:1-15, 8:3-12, Heb. 10:24-25, 1 Jn. 4:19-21.

HOW DO I LOVE PEOPLE?

Through Him:                                                                                                                 

• Read Matt. 22:29-30. Last week, how did we learn to love God? In today’s passage, what are the first several words? If ‘something’ is like ‘something else’ then what does that mean to us? So, how important are those words? What did Jesus mean?
• Does that mean we are to love other people with all our heart, soul, mind and spirit? Do we hear a collective gasp in the room?! How much does God love you? Think of your family: how much does God love each of them? What about the person at work whom you don’t like: how much does God love them? Why does He love them?
• Why does God love all those people who are so unlovely? A person this week said God ‘asked them’, “Who are YOU in Me?” They floundered: a spouse, a teacher? But God said to them, “You are the ‘apple of My eye’!” Then He asked, “Who is ___ in Me?” The person was their enemy. Then God said, “He is the ‘apple of My eye’ also.” Why is it so vital we see other people as God sees them?
• Who are some of the people in Scripture He loved or healed whom we would not have touched? How did He model loving behavior while He was here?
• At the end of the day, if God counted your ‘good works’ as only the ones prompted by your inner desire to show love to someone, how many would you have?

With others:

• Can someone who heard the story of Roseta, Italy tell the group what the end result has been for that community in PA.? What is so special in being in community with other believers? Has there been a time you spent a retreat of several days with believers, and can tell what it was like? How is that like church on Sunday? Do you take time to talk with those you don’t know when you are at church?
• What are some of the community groups you serve in? Tell some of the relationships you’ve developed because of the group. What are you able to accomplish through a group involved in ministry? Give some examples.
• What should be our motivations that should help the community relish getting together? To spread the gospel? Feed the poor? Clothe the ones who have little?
• Read Heb. 10:24-25. What should occur when believers work together in community? Is this another way to worship our Lord?

Through intentional acts:

• Read 1 Jn. 4:19-21. What do you consider an intentional act? If someone in your group or class has a need, are you active in helping meet it? If not, why not?
• What are some of the passages in the NT where an individual did an intentional act for Jesus that could have caused a backlash (Washing Jesus’ feet, the Good Samaritan, Joseph’s Tomb)?
• Have you ever done something for someone that cost you more than money?

In the overflow:

• What is the only way we can learn to love those who are unlovely? Do you really see yourself as not meriting the forgiveness God has shown you? Should that be your catalyst? How do you ever expect to exemplify Christ if you’re angry at others?
• Read Matt. 5:43-45. What is the first reason we love all people? Look at verse 45 again: does God differentiate between the evil and good? Then why would we?

Close:

What would you say if God spoke to your heart, saying, “Who are you in Me?” In other words, God is asking you if you know how He views you. Does He see you as loving, as forgiven, as His child? We just read that all of the works we do are as nothing unless we are doing them for love—love for God and love for the person who might just have hurt you. Really, God? It’s so easy to do things for God, but what about the kid (perhaps yours) who bugs you to death because of their room, or their lack of motivation, or their unwillingness to help? Is it justified that you get angry, or say harsh things, or even curse, to make your point at how disappointed you are in them? Do you know millions of parents do this without thinking every day? Is that the way we show the love of Jesus Christ to them?

A person who heard the example of the one to whom God said “Who are you in Me?” said, “I can’t even imagine running to my earthly father as an older child (not as a toddler) and throwing my arms around him, and saying, “I love you, Papa!” That is beyond sad. Both for the child and for the father—and for the idea that young person will have of what God the Father is like. They will believe He is waiting with a huge fly swatter to flatten you each time you fail Him. Please—think before you portray our God as mean or hateful to anyone, but especially a young person or an unbeliever. He is good. All the time.

By Sandy Day
January 19, 2025

                                                                              THE BLESSING: NUMBERS 6:22-27
January 05, 2025
Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Today, Charles Billingsley dissects the blessing God gives to His people in Numbers 6:22-27. When we know the original Hebrew meaning of the words He uses, our hearts are affected in new ways, and we see His words of  protection, love, faithfulness, and constant care for us come with a depth of meaning almost beyond description. He is not only the One, True God, but the only God period. And He loves us, not as the Church universal, but as individuals with needs, hurts, pains, peace, and the ability to make Him smile. Have you ever thought God was smiling on you? Did it ever occur to you He loves to laugh? And He loves it when you are happy and holy, living close in His everlasting arms.

Focal Passage: Numbers 6:22-27.

God’s Transformation:

• Read Num. 6:22. Have you ever wondered what the word ‘bless’ means when we use it within the framework of our Christian life? What are some of the things you mean when you tell someone ‘God bless you’? Do you have any idea what God means when He says, ‘The Lord bless you and keep you’? First, who is God? What are some of His characteristics? What does He name, YHWH, mean? Is anyone else also God?
• If God ‘blesses’ us (Hebrew word Barakh), what is meant? Does anyone recall the illustration of kneeling before their child? What was the father going to do? What is the ultimate gift from God to us?

God’s Preservation:

• What did it mean for someone to ‘keep’ something? What does the Hebrew word, shamir, mean in our language? What did these nomadic people do with thorns? What was protected by the thorns? Is it possible there was a meaning we don’t understand that Jesus had a crown of thorns on His head?
• What was significant about the word ‘you’ used in this verse? How does that make you feel? Read Psalm 121:3b-8. What are some of the verbs of protection used in this Psalm?

God’s Illumination:

• Read verse 25. Do you recall an instance when you saw someone’s face shine when they saw you? If so, how did you interpret that? Can you imagine God’s face shining with happiness when He looks at you?
• Read 2 Cor. 4:6. Has it ever occurred to you that God made light before He made the sun? What would that light have been? Read Rev. 21:23. Who is the light in the New Jerusalem? When God shines on us, what happens to our lives? How do our faces reflect the happiness when someone—or God—shines their face on us?
• “And.” What is special about ‘and’? How often does someone say, ‘You can have this or that?’ So, what is special about God’s face shining on us and giving us grace? What is grace? What has He rescued us from? When we give someone grace, what are we doing?

God’s Pacification:

• Read verse 26. What does it mean for someone to look at you? Where are their eyes? What if their eyes keep glancing away—does it bother you? What are they doing with their ears while they are watching you? Is their focused attention special to you?
• When God has His countenance upon you, and His face turned toward you, is all His focus on you at the time? Is He watching over you to see that you are okay?
• What does His peace mean? Does anyone recall the three areas of peace in the Hebrew? (Hint: River, Bird, Kettle). Where does God the Holy Spirit dwell? Read 1 Cor. 6:19 and Col. 3:15. What is special about each?

God’s Glorification:

• Read verse 27. What are some of the things we do in the name of Jesus? Here are a few: Matt.18:5, 20, 24:5, 28:18-20; Mark 9:39, 41. What is special about praying or doing good in Jesus’ name?
• Does God want His name to be glorified? Read 1 Cor. 6:19-20.
• Who does He want to glorify His name? Who will NOT be His child? How will we know those people?

Close:

To not doubt the presence of God in one’s life, to know that one’s sins were all nailed to the cross of Jesus Christ (Col.2:13-15), these are the greatest treasures we can own. It means His blessing from Numbers 6:22-27 is for us—you, me, and any others who have surrendered their lives to Him, asking forgiveness for sins, turning from them, and spreading the good news of Jesus’ love available to all men. It means He will be blessing us, keeping us—He is, as Scripture says, our defender, our protector, our king, our champion, our fortress, our light, everything we need to make it in this life. We can trade our messed-up lives, our faults, sins, chaos, and more for His peace. How crazy would someone have to be to turn that down?

By Sandy Day
January 05, 2025

                                                                             THE COMING KING: HE IS ABLE                                                                                                               December 22, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What do you envision when you think of Christmas? We walk into a mall and immediately all our senses are on overload. How can we get back to the reason for the season, and celebrate the holy, eternal God, coming in human form as the Babe in the manger (Phil. 2:5-11, Psa. 41:13), the years of His ministry, the cross He endured for our sakes, the empty tomb, and eternal life. It is the angel announcing to a group of shepherds that the longed-for Messiah had been born. It is the angels saying, “Peace on earth, good will toward men.” It was the people—well over five hundred—who saw the crucified Christ walking and talking for forty days after His crucifixion and resurrection. It is His power (dynamite) and authority (all) over everything in creation, and over anything that can happen to us, if we’re willing to make Him our Lord and Savior. It’s nothing about you, or what you’ve done. Not your works, not your lifestyle, not your merit (Is. 64:6). Life—it’s only about Him.

Focal Passages: Isaiah 9:6-7.

He is able to calm your heart:                                                                                                                              

• Read Isaiah 9:6. For the last four weeks we have discussed these verses, perfect for Christmas, yet perfect for the Second Coming as well. How do they describe Jesus?
• What are some of the reasons you see the world as crazy now? If you or your parents had years ago envisioned life today, would the possibility of it getting even worse be real? Do you believe it might be the “last days”? Why or why not?
• When we think of the turmoil, hate, and devastation in so many places, do you think it will get much worse? What are some of the situations people you know are going through right now, that are so bad they are not sure they will make it through?
• Read Mark 4:39. What did Jesus have authority over? What are other things He controlled with His authority? Do we have any authority? Read 1 Cor. 6:19-20. Do we have any authority that is not given to us by God? Why do we rebel against being told what to do?

He is able to see you through:

• Is there any storm in your life too big for Him to speak a word and it is over? Read Gen. 18:14a, Jer. 32:17, 32:27. We have read these the past weeks, but they must be internalized until they are part of our natural thinking. Do you believe them?
• Jesus is Omnipotent and has all What does that mean? Read Mk. 5:1-8. What did Jesus have power and authority over in this passage? Read Lk. 7:11-15. What did He have power and authority over here? Name some other situations where Jesus had both power and authority.
• What is the hardest thing you can think of that you are going through right now? If God said, “Ok, you can have the authority to fix this,” would you want to? Would it scare you that even though He said you had His permission you still don’t have the wisdom? We would probably make a greater mess than it already is. But what happens if you depend on Him, letting Him take the problem? Does He ever make a mistake? Can we really count on His promises? What are some promises you take great comfort in?

He is able to see you home:

• Read vs. 7b. Do you have any memory of a time when your parent or guardian was there for you at a time when you were going to be the object of someone’s wrath? How often do you consciously think of the truth that God the Holy Spirit is with you at all times, indwelling you, bringing you through various tough situations?
• Read John 14:1-6. Can Jesus lie? Then what promise here is so great that we can know it is the truth?
• Read Rev. 22:12. What is His promise to us? What reward do you think He will give us? Why should we get a reward?

Close:

Do you realize how impressive our God really is? When He was born in the manger in Bethlehem, Mary had given birth to Him just as billions of mothers have had billions of babies. But His existence did not begin at that time—Jesus Christ had existed forever before that night. And He still exists, and always will. He will never change, never stop living, never need to go to Plan B. He is the author and creator of everything in the world, He holds it all together. He has all power to do His perfect will and has all authority over everything. He never has to get permission to do anything—He can do whatever His will determines. We do not have the authority to do anything we want with our bodies, with other people or with life. We have all known people who desire to take their own life and it fails. That is because it was not our right to decide. He controls our lives, including the day we die. Give your entire life—heart, soul, mind, and spirit—to Him, and He will make it beautiful.

By Sandy Day
December 22, 2024

                                                                              THE COMING KING: WHO HE IS
December 08, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Are there ways people treat Jesus that send pain through your heart and disgust through your soul for the flippancy with which they refer to our God? For instance, it seems everyone, even Christians, constantly use His name in vain: their exclamations are so often “O L…d!” or “Oh my g..d!” Does this feel like a knife to your stomach? Some refer to Him as “the man upstairs,” as if He is no more than someone in a penthouse. God says in Exo. 20:7: “The Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain.” And Paul writes in Col. 1:15ff: “He is the image of the invisible God, the Firstborn of Creation, by Him all things were created…He holds them all together…” Reading all of this passage puts God higher than any man can imagine. With Abraham we would say “I am but dust!” He deserves all honor and glory, power and wisdom, thanksgiving and blessing and praise!

Focal Passages: Isaiah 9:6-7.

The wonder of  Christ:                                                                                                                              

• Read Isaiah 9:6b. When we read the word “wonderful” what are some of the meanings we attribute to it? What was the meaning of wonderful as used by Isaiah?
• Have you ever seen something so unbelievable you could hardly put it into words? Read Judges 13:17-18. Who was Manoa talking to? What did Christ say about His name? Was it the same word used in Isaiah?
• What do you think of when you hear these adjectives—Remarkable, Secret, Incomprehensible, Extraordinary, Astonishing? Does the grandeur of His name bring Him to a different level than ‘wonderful’? Why do we lose some of the wonder or awe of Christ when we say ‘wonderful’?
• Read Col. 1:15-20. Do these verses put some of the amazement back into the reality that Christ is truly God Himself?

The inspiration of Christ:

• What is the second designation of His name? What do we normally think of when we think of a counselor? Why is it so vital that a counselor knows intimately what he/she is talking about? What kind of guidance do they give? Have you had guidance from someone giving counsel—but no experience of your problem?
• What was the difference in the coming Babe who would be a Counselor? Who made man? Who better to know everything about him than the One who made him?
• What is the difference between someone you pay to talk to you for an hour, and someone who will be with you day and night forever? What are ways in which He instructs us in the way we should go?

The power of Christ:

• Has there been anyone in your life who stood up for you during a conflict in which you were terrified? What did you feel when they came to your aid? How do you think the Philistines felt when Goliath would go out every day and taunt the Israelites? Did they feel the same fear when David came out? Were they impressed?
• When we are at the end of our strength, money, etc. why should we not worry? Are we so tight with Jesus that we see the problem as solved? Does He want us to be?

Everlasting Father:

• Many of us had a dad who was so much less than he should have been—and we may be scarred. What is the difference between our earthly dad and God our Father? The Everlasting Father may be paraphrased “One who is eternally a Father.”* Can we conceive such a thing? Read Ps. 103:13. How is God like a Father?
• What does God say of Himself in John 10:11, 14? What is a good Shepherd?
• Read Ps. 68:5. How can we get into a Father-child relationship with God?

The Prince of Peace:

• Why have people always conquered by war? Have you ever known someone who conquers by peace? How will Anti-Christ conquer? How will the Millennial Kingdom be a kingdom of peace?
• Read Rom. 14:17. Explain this verse. What is the root cause of war? How, then, will peace be established? Must sin be removed for peace to reign? How will that be?

TAKE AWAYS:

• Never lose sight of the goodness of God!
• When everything seems difficult, trust His power.
• When everything seems out of control, trust His peace.

Close:

It’s amazing how different Christianity is from other religions. Jesus Christ was/is/and always will be God—the eternal One, forever in the past and forever in the future, God the Son. He is the only one who can claim He spoke creation into existence. He alone made man in His own image. And when man chose to disobey and sin entered his DNA, God Himself became flesh and came to this earth as a human Baby, 100% man and 100% God, living a life just as we live, but without sin. By doing so, He became the sacrifice that was perfect. He died upon the cross for our sins—no other religion has someone who has done this for mankind. He rose again and went back to heaven, where He waits until it is time to come for His children. He is the only one who ever rose from the dead under His own power, ascended back to heaven, and will come again a Second time. Such a story has never been told before. No other religion can last centuries and bring change to the worst sinner who can become a saint. How could anyone ever turn from Him when He calls?

By Sandy Day
December 08, 2024
*Young, E.J., The Book of Isaiah, Eerdmans, 1983, page 338.

THANKSGIVING: JUST BE HAPPY

November 24, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell and Scott Bullman

“Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say, Rejoice!” It is impossible to ‘rejoice’ unless there is joy in our heart. Giving thanks to God is necessary for our spiritual health just as healthy food is to our bodies. We could never list all the reasons there are to praise and thank God for all He has done. Are you going through a wonderful time in your life? Then you have a myriad of things you can be thankful for. Are you going through a time so tough you feel you may not make it to the other side? You can start praying the prayers of gratefulness and thanksgiving that He is with you through the storm, He will never leave you, He will protect you—and keep listing the praises until the storm passes over. You need to know only this: “Give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thes. 5:18). That is reason enough to start praising Him today—it is His Will.

Focal Passage: Philippians 4:4-9.

Things are not nearly as bad as you think:

• Read Phil. 4:4. Why is it so important to rejoice? What does the word “rejoice” mean to you? When will you have joy in your life? What is in your life that gives you reasons to rejoice?
• In the worst trials in your life, what are some verses from Scripture that give you reason to focus on God and not on the tribulation? Read Jer. 32:27. Is this true of the God who has saved you? What can cause our faith to suffer and steal our joy? What is in your life that is too big for God to handle?
• Why would God desire to bring you (personally) through the storms of your life? What do you have to do for God to be so active in your life that He quiets those feelings of being drowned?

Trust Him with the difficult moments:

• Read Phil. 4:5-6. What word would we normally use rather than ‘graciousness,’ or ‘gentleness’? Please paraphrase verse 5 in our vernacular.
• What does the next phrase (6a) say? Why do we worry? Do we love to worry? Do you think it is possible that we doubt our __________(finances, children, health, strength, whatever) is as important to God as it/he is to us? How can we overcome worry? Can we worry and give thanks at the same time? What are we NOT to worry about?
• Read verse 6b-6d again. What are we to do with our ‘requests’? Why do you think God has used the word “request” here? What should we do rather than worry?
• If you’re in a time of testing, does God know what you’re going through? Will He ever let us go? What are some possible reasons that we think God may not help us? Who is behind any of those emotions? Does God tell us to be thankful FOR every trial? What is the difference between ‘in everything,’ and ‘for everything’?

Trust Him for the wonderful results:

• Read verses 7-9. How does God guard our hearts and minds? What does He guard our heart or mind with? Why do we know that He will bring our storms to pass?
• What are we to focus our thought life on? Have you figured a way to commit these to memory (vs. 8)? How does a modern translation list these words?
• In verse 9, Paul says the things we have learned from him are to be followed; how can he say this? What will God do if we are glorifying Him?

Close:  

Do you ever have a time of personal Thanksgiving—perhaps at night when you’ve gone to bed and want your last thoughts to be on Him, or before you rise in the morning, or perhaps during your darkest hour?

“Give thanks—for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you; give thanks for He is good; give thanks  for His indescribable gift; give thanks for all the joy with which we rejoice; give thanks for His mercy endures forever; give thanks for the upright shall dwell in Your presence; give thanks for He qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; give thanks and praise Him; give thanks and call upon His name; give thanks and make known His wondrous deeds among the people; give thanks at the memory of His holy name; give thanks because of His righteous judgments. [Give thanks to Him:] He gives the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ; He always leads us in triumph in Christ. Your wondrous works declare Your name is near.”

These are scripture verses. This is how concerned God is that you recognize you are His child, and you are grateful for His protection, kindness, love, peace, eternal life and so much more. Praise Him today. Worry about nothing—pray about everything!

By Sandy Day
November 24, 2024

GET OUT OF THE BOAT

November 10, 2024

Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

Does fear control you? Fear not only keeps us from accomplishing great goals, it can grow bigger in our heads than faith, if we’re not careful. Today Charles said, “Do not let winds of culture, the temptation of the evil one, or the weakness of your own convictions allow you to fall.” He also reminded us of a quote by Chuck Smith: “You are either going to walk [in faith or in fear]: If you walk in faith it will cancel out fear. But if you walk in fear, it will diminish your faith.”  Join us as we learn lessons from Peter’s willingness to walk on water when Jesus said, “Come!” Twenty seconds of insane courage on his part changed his life—and caused him to see Jesus as the Almighty God who is Creator of the universe.

Focal Passage: Matthew 14:22-33, Colossians 1:15-18.

Stand Watch:

• Before we start, do you recall what miracle the disciples had just witnessed? Where had they been, on the Sea of Galilee? Read Matt. 14:22-24. Where did Jesus want the disciples to go?  What verb is used in vs. 22? How did He “make” them? Can you think of another verse where God “makes” us do something? Read Ps. 23:2. How/Why does He make us? Where did Jesus go? How long did He stay?
• Read Matt. 14:25. Where were the disciples now? How far from land were they? What was the sea like? Were they afraid? What time was it? When they saw Jesus, what did they think? Why?
• What was Jesus’ purpose in approaching them at 4 a.m., walking on the boisterous sea? Were the disciples where Jesus wanted them to be? Discuss. Had they obeyed His word (vs. 22a)? Read Mark 6:46-48. What else was Jesus doing? Did the disciples realize He was watching them? Do you think it would have made a difference? Does He ever take His eyes off us? Why would a storm come if they were doing what He said?
• What are some reasons God “troubles” our lives? What emotions do we feel while we are in a storm? If HE sent you into the storm, how can you absolutely KNOW that He will protect you while you are in it?
• Why are we to “stand watch”? What are we to watch over? What is the truth important? What are we to be in the world? How do we guard our heart? How can we protect our family? How important is prayer to our Christian life?

 Step out of the boat:

• Read Mt. 14:26-29. When the disciples were afraid, how did Jesus identify Himself? Who was the only one to get out of the boat? Did he think it was really Jesus? Did Peter show faith in getting out of the boat? What did it take for Peter to do this?
• Read Ex. 3:14. What does God mean when He calls Himself the “I AM”? What is He Lord over? Does He ever call “I AM! Don’t be afraid” to us?

Stay focused on Jesus:

• Read Matt. 14:30. How did Peter walk (those steps) on the water? Was the sea still roaring? What happened next? What emotion replaced the faith that Peter had that he could go to Jesus? Can fear and faith exist together?
• Did Peter realize quickly that he was sinking?  What did he do?
• Read verse 31. How quickly did the Lord act? Why does it seem so often that we call, but we do not hear a response? What did He say to Peter? Does He say this to us?

Jesus will silence the storm:

• Read vv. 32-33. What happened instantly when Jesus and Peter got back to the boat? Did Jesus say anything to the storm or to the sea?
• Even though Jesus said nothing, what did the disciples realize? What did they do then? Was this the first time they “worshipped” Him? Why?

WHAT WE SHOULD DO:

• Stand watch! We can be in the center of God’s will and still have storms.
• Step out of the boat! If He is calling you to step out of your boat, do it.
• Stay focused on God! If you take your eyes off of God, you will sink.
• Jesus will silence the storm. What He tells you to do, He brings you through.

Close:   There may be very few times when we worship our Lord with everything we are, in the way He really is. How many times do we see Him as a genie, to do our bidding (in the name of prayer), to get what we feel we need? James tells us in 4:2-3, “You desire and do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” We need to see the Lord as Paul writes in Colossians 1:15-18: “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.” Praise be to God for His unspeakable gift! Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!

By Sandy Day
November 10, 2024

                                          FAITH WORTH FOLLOWING: FOLLOWING FAITHFULLY                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              October 27, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

S.M. Lockridge, a pastor in the 1900’s, preached a sermon entitled “That’s My King,” on knowing who God is. It is perfect for today’s sermon, as we strive to know Who God is. This is only a part of the message: “Who is your King? My King is the King of Israel, the King of Righteousness, the King of the Ages, King of Heaven, of Glory, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords! He’s Unparalleled and Unprecedented! My King is Sovereign, with no means of Measure, Enduringly Strong, Entirely Sincere, Eternally Steadfast, Immortally Graceful, Empirically Powerful, Impartially Merciful. I wonder, do you know Him? My King is God’s Son, the Sinner’s Savior, the Centerpiece of Civilization, and the Only One qualified to be the All-Sufficient Savior! I wonder, do you know Him?”

You can still listen to this powerful message. It will thrill your soul. Is this your view of God? Today, join as we see Jacob mature to an awareness of how to serve and worship God..

Focal Passage: Genesis 35:1-15.

Following God requires preparation:

• Read Gen. 35:2-4. What had Jacob been through during the past few years? What had God told him in verse 1? When the Bible says, “God said to Jacob,” what goes through your mind? Read Acts 10:4 and Acts 9:5-7, 10-11. Did God (or Jesus) stop speaking to man when the Scriptures were completed? What do you think when someone today says, “God told me…”? How does He usually reveal His will to us?
• What three things did Jacob tell his house in this passage? How did he know there were “gods” among them? Name the gods we would put away if Jesus said he was coming to our house? If there are things that come to your mind, what does that tell you? Why do we not realize He is always with us? What is the second thing Jacob told them to do? What do we need to purify? How do we do that? Read 1 Jn. 1:9.
• What was the third thing? What was He speaking of? In the ‘old days,’ people wore their best clothes to church. Is that what we should do? What matters most to God?

God’s protection is unmatched:

• Read Gen. 35:5. Does anyone recall what had recently happened to cause Jacob concern for the safety of his family (and rightly so)? Do you think this protection was for Jacob alone, or something available to all of God’s children?
• What/who are some of the enemies we have? When God marks us as His children, are the times in life when His secret—or hidden will (not His ‘revealed will’) is going to bring Him glory that only comes through our suffering?

Recognize God’s place in your life:

• Read 35:6-7. In 28:13-22, Jacob had set up a stone and poured oil (a drink offering) in Bethel; now he does it again in this passage. What was he doing? Was there anything sacred about the stone? What was sacred? What can we learn from this?
• Do we have to be in church to worship God, to pray, or to have His protection? Why or why not? Why does the church building seem sacred? Is it?

Know Who God is:

• Read 35:9-11. What did Jacob’s old name mean? Do you think he felt shame when God asked his name? If your name means something despicable, would it embarrass you to tell Him your name? What was Jacob’s new name?
• What did God mean, “I am God Almighty”? What other names does He have? If we do not know His what He is, how will we KNOW Him? Do His names help us to see Him for Who He is?

Always celebrate God’s presence:

• Read vv. 13-15. Does this sound familiar? We read the same situation in 28:17-19, and afterwards Jacob went into Canaan. Why did he tarry there?
• As Jacob raised the pillar and anointed it with oil, why was he setting a place of worship? God had been with him all along—did he realize that? Do you?

TAKE AWAYS:

• It is difficult today to separate ourselves from the temptations of the world but we must be intentional in doing so. We can’t reflect God by accident, it takes work.
• Don’t fear attacks or criticism from the world, as a follower of Christ you are marked and can’t be harmed. We may be attacked, but God will protect us, though there are times His hidden will takes precedence for His glory.
• Focus more on His presence than yours. Simply showing up at church is not enough. Seek Him.
• Never stop celebrating the goodness of God. When you find yourself discouraged, remember what He’s done for you in the past so you can recognize His help now.

Close:  How like Jacob we are! Conceived with his twin, Esau, God had other plans for Jacob. God would call Jacob to be the one to carry on the blessing given to his grandfather, Abraham. Isaac inherited the blessing of Abraham, but if he aspired to the greatness of faith of his father, the Bible does not record it. However, Jacob, leaving his family to find a bride within the extended family of Laban in Haran, where he stayed twenty years, does not return to Canaan until he is fleeing from Laban. Laban behind him, Esau in front, with many mistakes over the years. Aren’t we like that? We get hemmed in, then call out to God.  Finally, Jacob matures in his faith, and eventually the deceiver, supplanter, and liar turns into Prince of God (Israel). Would that we would mature in such a manner, without all the mistakes! If so, keep that short account, having only seconds between a sinful thought and repentance. Celebrate God’s presence in your life—you can’t sin and celebrate at the same time. If He’s worth following, then do your best.

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                                    October 27, 2024

FAITH WORTH FOLLOWING:  STANDING WHEN YOU’RE TOLD TO SIT DOWN

October 13, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Many decades ago, a large number of people were referred to as the Silent Majority. The attempts to describe these persons can include those who remain aloof from situations in the midst of turmoil because it doesn’t affect them personally. It reminds one of King Hezekiah, in 2 Kings 20:19, upon learning destruction would be coming from Babylon, saying, “Well, it isn’t going to happen in my day, so it’s all good” (a loose paraphrase, but so like us today). If trouble isn’t going to affect us, we’re quiet. Today we study Isaac, who stayed faithful to God when everyone around him was causing trouble. Let’s learn from Isaac: there are times we must stand up against false ideologies and obey God—no matter what.

Focal Passage: Genesis 26:12-33.

Following God faithfully will lead to trouble:

• Read Gen. 26:1-4,12-17. What had God promised Isaac in verses 1-4? Why did he go to Gerar? Why did he stay where he was? Yet, when Isaac planted his crops, what was his harvest?
• How could you interpret verse 12, if it applied to you? What did he have? Can you imagine investing something, and reaping the maximum amount of return? Would you feel blessed?
• What did the Philistines feel toward him? Why? What did they do to show their jealousy? What were they hoping to accomplish? What were Isaac’s choices at this time?
• Ultimately, who is motivating those who are causing trouble or being jealous (read Eph. 6:12)? Are you ever jealous of people who are receiving God’s blessings? Why?

Following God faithfully will lead to blessing:

• Read Gen. 26:18-22. When this passage begins, what are the Philistines doing to try to run Isaac out of the area? Did he throw up his hands and say, “I quit!”?
• What happened when his servants dug the last well? What does its name mean? If you named something Rohoboth, meaning “wide open spaces,” how would you visualize it? What was Isaac’s response to the end of the dissension with the Philistines (vs. 22b)? How did this show God’s blessing?
• Think back to Abraham’s life for a moment; how were some of the ways he was blessed because he had been faithful to God? Did he have a promise from God to rely on in his life? Did the promise get passed on to Isaac? Why does perseverance make such a difference in life when we are striving to reach a goal?

Following God faithfully is the only option:

• Read Gen. 26:23-29. Isaac had resided outside of Gerar after his final well was dug; now, in vs. 23, he moves about twenty miles to Beersheba. What occurred the “same night”? What did Isaac do after God appeared to him?
• After Isaac settles in Beersheba, why does Abimelech, a friend, and the commander of his army come to Isaac? What were they basing their request on? Why were they concerned about Isaac’s faithfulness to his God?
• Is it possible, since God was blessing Isaac so greatly, these men might be concerned their villages and their lives might be in danger, if he kept increasing in goods and servants? What was the flattery for? Should this be our testimony?

TAKE AWAYS:

• Living a life of faithfulness will likely lead to trouble but live it anyway.
• When others oppose you, don’t fight, live like Christ. Throwing bombs does not make a good testimony. You want others to see Jesus in your actions.
• If it is possible, live peaceably with all men!
• When the only acceptable response to opposition is compromise—DON’T!

Close:                                                                                                                                                                                             In this passage from the life of Isaac, we see two major lessons to be learned for today’s world. Isaac, living in the middle of Philistines in the land of Canaan, was the recipient of God’s promise to his father, Abraham, that as far as his eye could see he would inherit the land of Canaan. Also, his descendants would be many and inherit the land as well. As we sojourn here on this earth, we are not unlike Isaac: we are living among a people and culture who hate what we stand for. Not because we are troubling them in any way, but because our beliefs are a constant indictment of what God desires from all men. They do not want to live for Him, worship Him, or trust Him. Their lives are wrapped up in themselves, and for a people to live for God makes them uncomfortable. So, they hate us. We should be just like Isaac – living among them and having a testimony that we love them, despite hating to see lifestyles that will one day condemn them to an eternity far from God.

Our second lesson is the faithfulness of Isaac’s father, Abraham, passed on to Isaac, produced God’s blessings in Isaac’s life. When we think of Abraham, we see a man who trusted every word God spoke to him. If God gave instructions, he obeyed. If He gave a promise, Abraham believed it. His life became an example for us, that we live with obedience and trust every day, so we can become a testimony to everyone we see.  Do we have options? Yes, we can quit. Is that the thing to do? Not if we want to live life to the fullest, with others saying, “You are now blessed of the Lord.” How inspiring is that?

By Sandy Day

October 13, 2024

FAITH WORTH FOLLOWING: THE TESTIMONY OF FAITH

 September 29, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What is your reputation among those who know you? King Solomon wrote “A good name is [better] than riches.” Without a doubt you have known others who have that good name, but as Christians, it should be our testimony—our reputation—is that we are loving, honorable individuals, even if someone gets tired of hearing about Jesus from us! Abraham, once he was living in the land of Canaan, had a name for integrity, honor, and was called a mighty “prince” of God among the people of the land. His character was built on his faith in the Lord God, and he was held in high regard. Abraham believed God when He spoke to him, and it was counted for him as righteousness.

Focal Passage: Genesis 23:1-19.

True faith leads to a strong witness:

• Read Gen. 23:3-6. This act by Abraham is the first time Moses addresses burial; however, it was practiced from ancient times. Why do you think God put it into our hearts to bury our dead? Why did Abraham not return to Ur and the family plot? Why did he feel it necessary to purchase a cave (unused burial plot for posterity)?
• Abraham refers to himself as a “foreigner”; had the Hittites allowed him to live among them peacefully? In verse 6, what do their words of praise mean about the lifestyle of Abraham while he had been living among them? Can you infer from their words he lived quietly and honorably among them?
• What kind of witness do you assume Abraham was while in Canaan? Would your neighbors say the same thing about you, in your community?

True faith leads to respect for others:

• Read Gen. 23:7-9. What evidence is there that Abraham was respected by the Hittites? In verse 7, how did he show respect for them?
• Why did Abraham insist on paying for the sepulcher? How do you see this same analogy in Gen. 14:21-23? Read Gen. 13:14-15. In verse 9, why does Abraham reiterate that he will pay full purchase price for the cave?
• What could Ephron and the Hittites have said had Abraham let them give him the land, rather than paying for it?
• Why did he want the burial place to be separate from the Hittites?

True faith leads to respect FROM others:

• Read Gen. 23:10-11. During this conversation with Ephron and the Hittites, what sense of regard did they hold for Abraham? What are some qualities he must have shown to them? Do your friends see these same qualities from you?
• Read 1 Tim. 3:7. When missionaries from our church go into foreign fields to win people to Christ, what type of lifestyles must they see in order to understand the love of God?

True faith demands integrity:

• Read Gen. 23:12-16. Can someone give a definition for integrity? What are the characteristics of someone who has integrity? Why is it so important in this day to have a lifestyle of integrity? Can you live one way in the home, and another when you pull into the church? How long will it be before people see the real person?                                           
• Have you learned anything from the life of Abraham that causes you to desire to have a closer relationship with God? What has been the catalyst?

ACTION POINTS:

• You are called to be a witness in this world, trust God to accomplish it.
• Show respect to others, regardless of what they believe or how they act.
• Live your life in such a manner that you will be respected in the world.

Close: 

There are some people who inspire you to be better than “ordinary.” As we read of the life of Abraham, particularly the trip to Mt. Moriah (when he had no reason to think he would not have to go through with the act of sacrificing Isaac), we see time after time God appearing to him, giving him promises or instructions, and Abraham obeying instantly and fully. Are you a person like that, or do you know people like that?

Has it caused a desire to grow in your heart that you would like to emulate Abraham, and have a closer, more intimate, relationship with the Lord God? What would that look like for you? Perhaps to give up television time, or reading time; perhaps to stay home more with your children and spouse, respecting them, rather than berating them, spending quality time with them, telling them how proud you are of them? It is so easy to find time for the fun or wasteful things of life, but hard to discipline ourselves to live in such a way that we will encourage those we live with to develop characters that will result in a “good name.” But we get to choose, don’t we?

 

By Sandy Day

September 29, 2024

FAITH WORTH FOLLOWING: STANDING UP IN YOUR FAITH

  September 15, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we will read of Abraham in a beautiful conversation with God as he reasons with Him concerning the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah—and ultimately Lot and his family. This mattered greatly to Abraham, as he begs God to spare the city if God could find ten righteous people in it. One has to assume he was thinking of Lot, his wife, and their four daughters, with possibilities of husbands in each case. In the end, the city was destroyed while the angels led Lot, his wife, and two of his daughters out. Join us as we study to glean wisdom from this passage, given—that is, “God-breathed”—by the Giver of the only Truth that is trustworthy.

Focal Passages: Genesis 18:16-26,19:1-17.

Faith Brings Favor:

• Read Gen. 18:16-26. Why was the destruction of Sodom so important to Abraham? Look back at 18:1-2; who are the three men in these verses? Would “the Lord” (lit. “YAHWEH,” vs. 1) be either God the Father, or possibly Jesus, Preincarnate? Who were the other two (19:1)? How did Abraham know the Lord? Read John 10:27.
• In vs. 17, why does the Lord speak His thoughts? Why does He tell Abraham what His plans are? Read Isaiah 1:18a. Does the Lord love our conversations with Him? In vs. 19, did the Lord already know whether Sodom’s sin was grave?
• In vv. 22-33, could someone please paraphrase these verses? Was Abraham being respectful? What were some reasons YAHWEH told Abraham He was going to destroy Sodom? Why did the Lord capitulate upon each negotiation? Read vs. 33. Where did each go when the conversation was over?
• Why does faith bring God’s favor? Read Psalms 5:12, 35:27. Do these apply to us as well? Can we have a faith so firm that no one can shake us, or do we stand silent as God is attacked in today’s world? Do we stand up for the moral values we see attacked?

Faith Brings Wisdom

• Read Gen. 19:1-3a. What is happening here? What was the significance of the “gate”? What was different about the angels that Lot recognized their identity? Why did Lot insist they go into his house? Why did he stay outside?
• What comes into your mind first when someone mentions Lot? What are some of the facts you know of him? How do you view Lot from passages you know? Read 2 Pet. 2:6-9 [“For if God…turned]. How is this different than what you may have thought about him?

Faith Brings Protection:

• Read Gen. 19:9-11. Who is yelling “Stand back!”? How do the men of Sodom describe Lot? How did they threaten him? Where was he standing at this time? What happened next? Did that stop the men of Sodom? Do you understand now why some people are called “Sodomites”?
• Did Lot realize how evil the city was? What did he offer the men of Sodom? Can you even begin to imagine the wickedness of such a place? Why did he remain living there? Why would God have protected Lot and his family?

Faith Brings a Future:

• Read Gen. 19:12-14. What did the angels reveal to Lot, and instruct him to do? Did he do this? How did his sons-in-law respond? Would God have saved them from destruction if they had gone with Lot, leaving Sodom?
• Read vv. 15-17. Night passes: does Lot take the angels seriously yet? In the end, what did they do? Why did they do this? What was it the angels actually did (vs. 16b)? How far did they take them? What were their instructions in vs. 17?
• When Abraham was told Sodom was going to be destroyed, do you think Lot’s welfare was uppermost in his mind? Do you see this experience by Abraham as an incentive for us to intercede in prayer for loved ones? Do you think the Lord have saved Lot without Abraham’s interceding?

ACTION POINTS:

• Be deliberate in strengthening your faith as it positions you closer to God.
• Spend more time looking for the “visitations” of God than the applause of men.
• Don’t cling to what “is” and miss the “what can be”!

Close:   Family is important to all of us. We have traveled with Abraham from Ur to Haran to Canaan, then Egypt, and back to Canaan. Now, at 99, he learns he will be a father and Sarah a mother in nine months, so surely he often reflected on his journey. God told him to leave his family in Ur, at 75 years old, yet he took Lot with him. When Lot chose the fertile land for his herds, leaving the prairie for his uncle, Abraham didn’t speak. When Abraham had to take his 318 servants to rescue Lot and his household in Chap. 14, he did not seem to resent it. Now, he is concerned Lot and his family may be killed in a fire that will destroy the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham negotiates with God, asking (in an indirect way) for protection and escape for Lot’s family before the fire comes. We never see Lot thanking his uncle, although certainly he must have felt gratefulness. Is anyone being such a protector for you, and are you showing your gratitude? Don’t ever take a family’s help for granted—it may be costing them dearly, as it did Abraham.

 

By Sandy Day

September 15, 2024

FAITH WORTH FOLLOWING: GOD’S PLAN, OUR DOUBT

September 01, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Today we begin a new series and church-wide study of the book of Genesis—the Book of Beginnings. Besides the story of the creation of the world, Genesis is Moses’ account of the birth of civilization, of mankind, and particularly of individuals who started their journeys with God, some successfully and some with disastrous results. We begin today with Abram (Abraham), the father of Israel’s covenant with God. And even though he was not perfect, Hebrews 11 says “…He waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. And it is good to keep in mind the statements of Jesus in Luke 24 and John 5, as He tells the people to be careful how you speak of Moses, as “he wrote of Me.”

 

Focal Passages: Genesis, Chapters 12-14

God’s Call:

• Read Gen. 12:1-4. What was the first command God gave Abram? Did He tell him where he was going? What did it take for Abram to do what God told him? When was God going to “show him” where he was going? Did God ask Abram if he wanted to go? What was he to leave?
• What were the first four promises God gave him? Did God need Abram to pay for the trip, get a job, or have a route mapped out? What strikes you about these promises? What were the other three promises? Are these still in effect for Israel?
• Did Abram go? Was anything different in his going that was not commanded? Read 5b. Where did they stop? Imagine a circle divided with east-west, north-south lines. Where did Abram settle? What did the names of Bethel and Ai mean? Where did Abram continue later?
• Do you feel God has called you somewhere? Are you waiting until He shows you everything (cost, way, destination, etc.) before you pick up and leave? Based on the story of Abram, what should be your response? What is the only thing God wants?

Doubt from Fear of Others:

• Read Gen. 12:10-13. What situation had Abram placed himself in at verse 8? Was he wholeheartedly following God? What happened in Canaan? What could he have done in the famine? Was he being tested? Where did Abram go? What did he do there?
• What emotion overtook him? How did God continue to protect him? Why does God continue to protect us when we don’t deserve it?
• What causes us to fear? If you are going through health issues, moving issues, financial issues, or relationship issues, what is it that is the basis for the fear you are experiencing? Are you doubting God’s protection for your life in any way?

Doubt from the Place of Self-Reliance

• Read Gen. 13:1-4. When Abram left Egypt, where did he go? Why do you think he went back to where he had originally been? Had he learned a lesson? (Think for a moment: who probably had he added to his household while in Egypt?)
• Read Genesis 13:14-18. In vv. 15 and 17, what does God promise again? What financial condition was he in when he returned to Canaan? What were his choices now? Could he have continued to be self-reliant? In vs. 18, what did he choose? Why?

Doubt from the Potential for Greed

• Read Gen. 14:16. Can someone tell the story of the rescue of Lot? What was offered to Abram? What was his response? Could he have patted himself on the back for acquiring more “stuff” by getting Lot back? Who had he decided to trust for his future?
• What was he wanting his testimony to be now?
• What about you? Are you satisfied with what God has done for you, or do you desire more money, more stuff, more __________? How does 1 Cor. 10:31 fit here?

ACTION POINTS:

• Work hard to hear His call: Why is it so hard to hear today?
• Don’t allow the noise and distraction to diminish your trust: What calls you louder than the voice of God?
• Don’t let the “spoils” of the world tempt you: It is easy to let the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life grab your attention.

Close: There are many lessons that can be gleaned from these chapters in Genesis, but we must see how they apply to us. When God gave Abram the instruction to “get out of your country,” he took his wife and left Haran. God added, “get out from your family,” so he left his father, Terah, but took his nephew Lot. We do not know why. In chapter 11:31, Terah, the father, had taken Abram, Sarai, and Lot, who could have been under Abram’s care, and left Ur for Canaan. They stopped in Haran, where Terah remained until he died. This is where Abram was when he got the call from God to leave his family and go on to Canaan. Was taking Lot, who later fathered Moab and Ammon—top enemies of Israel—a fruit of partial obedience? We do not know, except to guess. But had Abram left Lot in Haran, those boys possibly would not have been born, and many wars against Israel might have been avoided. What we do see, though, is that God blesses obedience when He calls us. He does not give us all the details but wants our trust. If famine comes, He does not ask us to fix it, go to Plan B (Egypt), but trust Him to provide. God often tests us through trials to see if we will remain faithful. Let’s stand firm, obeying blindly and trusting implicitly!

By Sandy Day

September 01, 2024

 

REPEATING HISTORY: THE IMPORTANCE OF CONSISTENCY

August 18, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church has covered everything about their holdovers of a sinful, boastful, lifestyle (carried over from their days before salvation), as they allow the immorality of the city to permeate the church. From chapter one to eleven Paul speaks of them cleansing their church of all habits that denigrate the name of Jesus. In chapters twelve through fifteen he tells them how to live faithfully, focused on bringing glory to God. In chapter sixteen, as he closes, he gives them instructions on the things that are most important as they live the Christian life. All of these are as important to today’s church as they were two thousand years ago, as we see the world outside entering our church.

 

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 16.

 

The Importance of Generosity                                                                                                                  

Generosity in Giving:                                                                                                                                                                                   

Read 1 Cor. 16:1-4. Why was Paul so concerned that the Corinthians would be generous with their giving? What is the commandment in Matt. 28:19-20 that Jesus gives to all believers, through all the ages? Can that passage be done without Christians supporting mission efforts? What is the purpose of reaching others?

• Where does everything we have come from? Read Mal. 3:7-9. Why is God concerned that we are not stingy with what we have? Why should it be something that is “planned” and be done on the first day of the week? Why is it not limited to wealthy brethren? Who is supposed to be generous?
• What did Paul mean when he writes for Christians to “store up as he may prosper”?
• Read 1 Tim. 6:17-19, Matt. 19:23-25 and Mal. 3:10. How do these three passages illustrate the New Testament plan of giving in 1 Cor. 16:1-4?

Generosity in going:

• Read 1 Cor. 16:5-8. Where did Paul desire to go in the coming months? Did he leave himself an “out” if God asked something else of him?
• When you plan something—whether for God in ministry, or for yourself for work or fun—how open are you to a change of schedule? What makes some people react in anger when their plans are thwarted by others, or sickness, or ‘happenstance’? If this is you, list some steps you can take to be open to God changing your plans?
• How can we be sensitive to what God wants, rather than having our own way?

The Importance of Discernment:                                                                                                                       

Open eyes in ministry:

• Read 1 Cor. 16:9-12. Paul desperately wanted to see the Corinthians, whom he loved, but what held him back? What is the phrase we often use if our plans are not able to be carried through (Matt. 8:2a)?
• In verses 10-11, what instructions did Paul give concerning Timothy? Read 1 Tim. 4:12. What apparently had happened prior to this time? How did Paul want the Corinthians to treat Timothy, and how anxious was Paul that he come to him?
• Read Acts 18:25-27. What kind of a man was Apollos? If, in verse 12, Apollos feels the time was not right, does it seem he is being sensitive to God’s leading in his life?

Open eyes in partnership:

• Read 1 Cor. 16:13-18. What five commands should we strive to be or do in vv. 13-14? What are we to watch for? Why is danger always present (1 Pet. 5:8)? Can you think of some examples we must be watchful of? How do we stand fast in the faith?

Read Eph. 4:14 and Jas. 1:6-8. How do these passages illustrate us standing fast?

• How are we to be brave or strong? What weakens us? What frightens us, as Christians? What will show that we are acting with courage?

The Importance of Family:

• Read vv. 19-24. When we become a Christian, who is our family? Why is it so important that if we have a falling out, we to handle it as God instructs?
• In verse 22, how are we to act, regardless of the opposition? Why is revenge wrong?

ACTION POINTS:

• Live generously: We all have an abundance of “stuff.” Share it. Be Selfless!
• Seek direction: Spend time daily in God’s Word—nothing else will satisfy.
• Seek others: There are unsaved people all around us. Tell them your story. Love them.

Close:

For the elderly who are saved, this world, although frightening, is not completely overwhelming because we know God will never desert us, nor take us beyond what we can bear. However, we are concerned for the children and grandchildren who are being brought into the world now, as we fear they will see catastrophic events. Only if they are instilled with the Word of God to stand fast when opposition comes, to be brave, strong, and love the unlovely, the unloved, and the family of God, will they be able to face the trials that will come. Teach them how faithful, loving, true, and strong our God is, pointing it out at every opportunity, always keeping in mind that you reflect God in their eyes.

By Sandy Day

August 18, 2024

REPEATING HISTORY: CONFUSION IN CORINTH

Teaching Pastor Charles Billingsley

                     August 04, 2024                      

In last week’s sermon on 1 Cor. 13, Paul has given us an expose on the topic of love. He continues his thought on love in the opening of Chapter 14—not hampered by punctuation or chapters—by telling the Corinthian believers, caught up in the frenzy of the world of immorality and idolatry found in Corinth, that love is the foundation of our life in Jesus Christ. Paul takes love a step further than chapter 14, showing that love is the essence of God, with all of His attributes, and should be the spiritual fruit of our lives, whether in church, our daily family life, at work, relaxing—whatever we do, we should do it all to bring God glory, for everything should be done in love. Without love, the spiritual gifts are not active. He exhorts in this chapter that worship in the body of Christ should be a time of peace, order, and encouragement, not disruptive, chaotic or confusing.

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 14. 

Pursue Love:

• Read 1 Cor. 14:1-2. What is special about the word pursue? Love is a spiritual gift, as well as a fruit of the Spirit—why must we “pursue” it rather than it being a well-spring flowing naturally out of us? Why would it have been difficult for the Corinthians to separate godly love from sinful lust and immorality?
• What is meant by “spiritual gifts”? List some of them. What were the “sign gifts” that may have ceased except in rare circumstances? Read 1 Cor. 12:7, 11. Why were spiritual gifts given? Who gives them and how much?
• What is the difference between prophesying and speaking in tongues? Why did Paul say that the gift of prophecy was to be coveted more than tongues? How was/is the gift of prophecy verified that it was/is authentic? Has this gift ceased? Why?
• Can someone explain what the gift of tongues were, as in this chapter and in Acts 2 (the only two places in the Bible)? If someone spoke in tongues, what was the restriction under which it had to be done in the church? Could the same person speak in tongues, then interpret? Then why would they not have spoken in the language of the church to begin with? Did it ever include indiscernible babble? Why not?
• What are the three predominant views on speaking in tongues? Why is there so much controversy about it? Why do ‘Cessationists’ believe it to be a discontinued gift, except in rare instances that God dictates? What has replaced the need for the gift of tongues?
• “Paul lays down four principles that the Corinthians had to observe: tongues should be interpreted; they must edify the members of the church; they ought to be intelligent in the context of love; orderliness must characterize believers at worship”.[1]

The gifts of the Spirit never contradict the fruits of the Spirit:                                                                                                                         

• Read 1 Cor. 14:20-32. Paul put himself on their level of fellowship by calling them “Brothers” as he was about to reprimand them. What was the problem? Read Jer. 4:22. The Greek indicates these Corinthians were susceptible to the entertainment provided by the babble of tongues, enjoying the chaos. Why is something that results in chaos not of God?
• Who were the tongues to be a sign for? Why? In vs. 27, what was the limited number of those to speak in tongues? If there was no one to interpret, what was the person to do?
• In vv. 23-25, who was prophecy for? Why? What should be the result of prophecy? Read vs 26b. What is the ultimate purpose?
• Read vv. 29-32. What were the restrictions on prophesying? Read vs. 33. What point does Paul make again?

The case of women speaking in church:

• Read 14:33b-35. In this passage, we have to focus on the original Greek which gives more insight than English. Paul gives commands where trouble has been brewing, therefore we are to assume women were getting out of hand during the services. Charles exegeted this by putting forth the circumstance that women were questioning the prophets, not only for their content but also going off on tangents as to the authority or background of the prophet, causing chaos, discord and confusion. This behavior is contrary to Scripture.

How has that impacted the church today? Could there be cases where raucous behavior by women could cause discord, that might apply today? The majority of churches won’t face the issue, but in some circumstances might elders need to step in?

• Read verse 40. This is the conclusion that Paul continually comes back to: if it is something causing disorder, what is the church to do about it?

Close:        

When there are brilliant scholars and theologians on both sides of an issue from the Scripture, it behooves everyone involved to study God’s word (as the Bereans did) to “see that these things are true.” So, it is with today’s sermon. Tongues, prophesying, and women speaking in church are all hot topics. Yet, each, in their own way, can be settled simply. Tongues: if it is completely within the guidelines Paul has set, it should not cause division as to judging one’s salvation, although many churches believe the true gift of tongues has ceased. If the speaking in tongues causes chaos, it isn’t from God. Prophesying: If it comes true, the prophet was from God; if it doesn’t, he wasn’t. Women in the church: women—more than men—tend to speak out in services. If they cause disorder, unruly behavior, or discord, the elders should escort them out, and perhaps that’s all it would take. If the church is filled with women of this type, the elders need to perhaps rethink establishing rules such as Paul had to dictate for the church in Corinth. If anything in the church causes chaos, it isn’t from God.

By Sandy Day                                                                                                                                                                                                                  August 04, 2024

[1] Simon Kistemaker, 1^st Corinthians (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Books, 1993) page 488.

                                                     REPEATING HISTORY: THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY

  July 21, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

In writing under the inspiration of Holy Spirit, Paul hits home on issues that are sometimes uncomfortable, or hard to swallow, but always are the will of God. In today’s passage in 1 Corinthians 7, 8, and 9, he deals with our responsibilities in our marriages, our future, our freedoms, our sacrifice, and our service. It may touch areas where you disagree with the message, but keep in mind that obedience to God’s word is how you know you are truly saved, not because you walked an aisle, nor even because at some point you may have been baptized, but “we know that we know Him if we keep His commandments” (1 Jn 2:3).

 

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 7, 8, and 9.

Responsibility in Marriage:                                                                                                                         

Sexual Purity and Connection

• Read 1 Cor. 7:1-5. Paul opens this section, replying to a letter from the Corinthians concerning marriage. It was acknowledged in Corinth that some believing husbands thought abstinence made one more spiritual. Paul, rebuking these men, addressed purity in marriage. Read Eph. 5:25. How does this verse apply to those men, or those who twist the Corinthian passage to mean sex-on-demand?
• In today’s world, many men and woman are addicted to porn; how does this play out in marriage? Do the partners expect the same looks or perversion that they see on the screen? Why is it so destructive that we live in a world where feelings have overtaken reason?  Why did God ordain the sex act? Does anything give a spouse the right to justify porn? How can a couple reestablish a relationship of cherishing each other? Does a sex-starved marriage justify divorce or adultery?

Responsibilities in Service:

• Read verses 17-24. What does Paul say that links this passage back to the previous verses? Why might some people feel that if they become a believer but had previously failed in a marriage, they should/could go back to the previous spouse or some other action (leave the current family) to right the wrong?
• Why does Paul say that in whatever state you were when you were saved, do not attempt to change that in order to become a better Christian? Can God use you In whatever vocation (see next question) you are In when you became saved? Why would that not apply to situations where you are in a vocation that is immoral?

Responsibilities for the Future:

• Read vv. 32-35. What is Paul’s point in this passage? Is he simply explaining the obvious: that one who is married has to take care of the marriage, while one who is unmarried can live to please God?
• Which is more important to God, living life to please Him or being romantically involved? Does that make marriage wrong? Read Gen. 2:18. Is marriage sanctified and set apart by God?

Responsibilities in Freedom:

• Read 1 Cor. 8:7-13. Why, when Paul begins to talk of food and idols, does he switch to knowledge and love? What do you personally know about idols? Read 1 Cor. 10:20. Why does Paul say things revolve around love? What is Paul’s main concern?
• Liken the meat of then to today and tell what can make other Christians stumble if they see us partaking of _____. So, if we ignore their thinking “if it’s okay for them, it’s okay for me,” how does this thinking negate love? Where is our responsibility?
• What should be our “yardstick” of measure when it comes to our freedoms?

Responsibilities of Sacrifice:

• Read 1 Cor. 9:19-23. How does Paul link this passage to the one in chapter 8? Are we free to do whatever we wish?
• What restriction should we place on ourselves? What will it take to reach others?

So Run!

• Read 1 Cor. 9:24-27. How do athletes train for winning a competition? Is food bad?
• What does it take to bring the body into subjection, and allow the Spirit to lead us?

TAKE AWAYS:

• If married, know your rights and responsibilities; you belong to your spouse.
• If unmarried, know the value of your position; regardless of the future, it is a gift.
• For everyone, know your responsibility to the King.

Close: As we close this section of 1 Corinthians, we find everything boils down to this: we are to love God with everything we are and love other people as we love ourselves. If we do these two things, we will not betray our spouse, friends or family. We won’t partake of things that make others stumble, for we may be the only “Bible” they ever read. Let them see our 100% devotion to God in all things. They should sense the true joy and inner peace in us that comes with serving God. As Prov. 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

By Sandy Day

July 07, 2024

 

 

                                                    REPEATING HISTORY: THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY

July 07, 2024

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

 

In writing under the inspiration of Holy Spirit, Paul hits home on issues that are sometimes uncomfortable, or hard to swallow, but always are the will of God. In today’s passage in 1 Corinthians 7, 8, and 9, he deals with our responsibilities in our marriages, our future, our freedoms, our sacrifice, and our service. It may touch areas where you disagree with the message, but keep in mind that obedience to God’s word is how you know you are truly saved, not because you walked an aisle, nor even because at some point you may have been baptized, but “we know that we know Him if we keep His commandments” (1 Jn 2:3).

 

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 7, 8, and 9. 

Responsibility in Marriage:                                                                                                                         

Sexual Purity and Connection

• Read 1 Cor. 7:1-5. Paul opens this section, replying to a letter from the Corinthians concerning marriage. It was acknowledged in Corinth that some believing husbands thought abstinence made one more spiritual. Paul, rebuking these men, addressed purity in marriage. Read Eph. 5:25. How does this verse apply to those men, or those who twist the Corinthian passage to mean sex-on-demand?
• In today’s world, many men and woman are addicted to porn; how does this play out in marriage? Do the partners expect the same looks or perversion that they see on the screen? Why is it so destructive that we live in a world where feelings have overtaken reason?  Why did God ordain the sex act? Does anything give a spouse the right to justify porn? How can a couple reestablish a relationship of cherishing each other? Does a sex-starved marriage justify divorce or adultery?

Responsibilities in Service:

• Read verses 17-24. What does Paul say that links this passage back to the previous verses? Why might some people feel that if they become a believer but had previously failed in a marriage, they should/could go back to the previous spouse or some other action (leave the current family) to right the wrong?
• Why does Paul say that in whatever state you were when you were saved, do not attempt to change that in order to become a better Christian? Can God use you In whatever vocation (see next question) you are In when you became saved? Why would that not apply to situations where you are in a vocation that is immoral?

Responsibilities for the Future:

• Read vv. 32-35. What is Paul’s point in this passage? Is he simply explaining the obvious: that one who is married has to take care of the marriage, while one who is unmarried can live to please God?
• Which is more important to God, living life to please Him or being romantically involved? Does that make marriage wrong? Read Gen. 2:18. Is marriage sanctified and set apart by God?

Responsibilities in Freedom:

• Read 1 Cor. 8:7-13. Why, when Paul begins to talk of food and idols, does he switch to knowledge and love? What do you personally know about idols? Read 1 Cor. 10:20. Why does Paul say things revolve around love? What is Paul’s main concern?
• Liken the meat of then to today and tell what can make other Christians stumble if they see us partaking of _____. So, if we ignore their thinking “if it’s okay for them, it’s okay for me,” how does this thinking negate love? Where is our responsibility?
• What should be our “yardstick” of measure when it comes to our freedoms?

Responsibilities of Sacrifice:

• Read 1 Cor. 9:19-23. How does Paul link this passage to the one in chapter 8? Are we free to do whatever we wish?
• What restriction should we place on ourselves? What will it take to reach others?

So Run!

• Read 1 Cor. 9:24-27. How do athletes train for winning a competition? Is food bad?
• What does it take to bring the body into subjection, and allow the Spirit to lead us?

TAKE AWAYS:

• If married, know your rights and responsibilities; you belong to your spouse.
• If unmarried, know the value of your position; regardless of the future, it is a gift.
• For everyone, know your responsibility to the King.

Close: As we close this section of 1 Corinthians, we find everything boils down to this: we are to love God with everything we are and love other people as we love ourselves. If we do these two things, we will not betray our spouse, friends or family. We won’t partake of things that make others stumble, for we may be the only “Bible” they ever read. Let them see our 100% devotion to God in all things. They should sense the true joy and inner peace in us that comes with serving God. As Prov. 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

 

By Sandy Day

July 07, 2024