DANIEL  4: Glow Worms & Grass
October 27, 2019
Charles Billingsley

Our lives are full of choices—and most of them are concerned with how we can make life easier, more fun, or more interesting for ourselves, right? Do you ever struggle with the fear that you are being selfish, as in, always wanting “your way”? Can you share?

Open:

As we study the Old Testament book of Daniel, we get enthralled with the craziness of the life of the king of Babylon, where Daniel and his three friends were taken as captives. King Nebuchadnezzar ruled Babylon for over forty years, twenty five of which had Daniel as one of his cabinet. As chapter four of Daniel is concluded, the king saw Daniel’s God as the One, True God, against Whom he had greatly sinned.

Focal Passage: Daniel 4:1-37

Key Verse: Mark 8:36: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?”

The Patient Heart of God: Nebuchadnezzar’s Humiliation

• Read Dan. 2:46-47 and 3:28-29. What had King Nebuchadnezzar observed about the God of Daniel and his Jewish friends in these chapters?
• Daniel has now been a wise man for the king for about twenty-five years. Can someone please summarize the events in Daniel 4:4-10, someone else tell of the dream in verses 11-14, and someone else summarize vv.15-18? What is significant about the change of subject in verse 15?
• Read verse 19. How does Daniel react when he hears the dream? Why does it affect him so greatly? Someone please summarize the forewarning that God has given the king.
• Read verse 27. What warning does Daniel himself give the king?

The  Sovereign Power of God

• Read Daniel 4:27-28. What was the sin that the king has to be broken over?
• Read (around the room): Proverbs 16:18; 16:5a; 15:25a; and 6:16. What does God think about pride? Who was the cause of the king’s humiliation?
• Read Jeremiah 22:25. Nebuchadnezzar probably never heard of Jeremiah, the Judean prophet. How did Jeremiah’s prophecy reinforce the sovereignty of God? What about Proverbs 21:1?

The Restoring Hand of God

• Read Dan. 4:34, 36-37. What was the pivotal act that brought an end to the king’s trial? How did he respond?
• How does verse 37 differ from the proclamations he had made after Daniel had averted the killing of the wise men by interpreting the dream in Chapter 2, as well as the end of Chapter 3, with the Fiery Furnace?
• How could Nebuchadnezzar have avoided such a seven-year disaster? Was God being fair, to have attempted to show him through Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, as well as Daniel warning him?

Take Aways

• The patient heart of God—God is patient, but will do what He needs to do to humble us.
• The sovereign power of God—God is Sovereign—and will do what He needs to do for us to recognize this.
• The restoring Hand of God—God is a redeeming God, and will restore us if we humble ourselves before Him.

The battle you are facing is ultimately between who you want to be and who Creator God wants you to be.

Close:

Pride is simple to define: it is our will for our life fighting against God’s will. We can usually spot it instantly in someone else—but recognizing it in ourselves is hard for us to see, and harder still to take authority over.

Nebuchadnezzar had built a huge city with superlatives on every side. He had a “right” to feel a healthy pride in what he had achieved. However, rather than giving the glory to the only true God, he took the praise for himself. Over a period of several years God tried to get his attention, to no avail. Finally, after a fearful dream, Nebuchadnezzar called in Daniel. Daniel instantly knew God was about to bring the king to his knees, and issued a passionate, final warning of disaster coming. One year later, the king became as a cow in a field, eating grass for a meal.

When is the last time God tried to get your attention for a sin that you refuse to acknowledge? Does it frighten you that there will be an eventual cutting off of the grace that you take so lightly? Don’t let it go on until God has to take drastic action: repent, turn from the sin, and if it enters your mind afterward, take those thoughts captive! David wrote, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart—these, O God, You will not despise!” (Psalm 51:17).

DANIEL  2: BUT GOD!
October 13, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

There are so many ways in which people come to “the end of the rope.” And though you hear practical solutions, you also hear desperate statements. Can you share a memory?

Last week we began a new study on the life of young Daniel and his three Jewish friends, as they purposed in their hearts to not defile themselves while in captivity in the land of Babylon. God honored their devotion and commitment while they adjusted to their new life. Today we will focus on Chapter 2, as the four friends seek God during a potential death sentence.

Key Verse: Daniel 2:20: “Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, for wisdom and might are His.”

Focal Passage: Daniel 2:1-49.

Life’s not fair

• Read Daniel 2:1-5. What are your first thoughts as you read this narrative? Why is it amazing that Daniel and his friends were by now, two years later, still staunch in their faith toward God?
• What do you think the king was trying to achieve with his bizarre—and impossible–command? Was it possible? Was it fair? Why or why not?
• Word about the directive of the king had to have spread rapidly. What were some of the possible scenarios playing out in homes around Babylon?
• Daniel and his friends were still young teenagers, and there was little likelihood of being able to escape Babylon, so what were their options?

All we can do is trust God

• Read verses 11-13. What did the wise men exclaim when the king insisted they tell him the dream, with no hint of what he had envisioned?
• What did the king’s guard begin doing immediately? How dire were the consequences to Daniel, Hananiah (Shadrach), Azariah (Meshach), and Mishael (Abednego)?
• Even though the circumstances were not fair, had there been anything up to this point in Daniel’s control? Were the four friends from Judah able to change any of the events? Could they have foreseen this occurrence?
• Daniel has not yet heard what was going on, unless it was from panicked citizens. Was there anyone known to be trusting in the one, true God at this time? Why not?

God is our only hope

• Read verses 16-19. How did Daniel react to the words of Arioch, the captain of the guard, and what did he immediately do?
• How did Daniel’s action show that his relationship to God was still his priority, after two years in the foreign land?
• What happened as the result of fervent prayer? Read James 5:16b-18. What limits does fervent prayer have? Read 1 Peter 3:12. Does God delight in your prayers?
• Why is it safer to trust God for action than to trust men?

Who or what will you trust?

• Read Daniel 2: 27-28. What was the outcome when Daniel was taken before the king?
• What are the two most significant words in these verses?
• What does “But God” signify to you?

Close:

What an amazing story about our God, who watches over His children. Second Chronicles 16:9 tells us, “…the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” Such a tremendous promise for those who need Him to snatch them from the jaws of death!

Daniel’s biography from Daniel, Chapter One, ends with the determination of four young Jewish boys to serve God in the land of captivity. Now, approximately two years later, the four are again put to the test as they fear for their lives when faced with a command that will kill all wise men in the realm of Babylon. Prayer alone saves the boys as they fervently take their plight to God, calling on Him to deliver them from the crazy edict of the angered monarch.

In front of the king, Daniel unapologetically gives God the glory when asked if he (Daniel) is able to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. He replies that it is only by God disclosing the dream that he can relay the circumstances of what Nebuchadnezzar has seen in his sleep. Daniel did not waver in giving glory to God.

Would that we would be so strong in our faith as to realize that anything Satan can throw at us—from daily trials to insurmountable problems of approaching death—can be taken to the Lord in prayer, and know He will take care of the situation. When all circumstances seem against us, when we are literally at the end of our rope, we have a God in heaven whose eyes roam to and fro, throughout the earth, watching over us. Is your heart so right with God that His eyes would stop and rest on you as you pray? Let us remember this important lesson from Daniel, and seek our God daily, so that our hearts are always at peace in His grace and mercy!

WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
  September 29, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Every day on Facebook there are thousands of posts showing the positive or negative character qualities of the potential candidates in the upcoming Presidential race.  Do you respond in anger or are you able to love those people who declare views contrary to yours?

As we continue our series, Who Is My Neighbor, we want to examine our personal lives to see if love—real, unconditional, godly love—is the motivation for our actions, our speech, our giving, or works. If it’s superficial or false, it falls short of God’s ideal. Today we want to learn how we can really love those people who are not very likeable! How does love act when we think someone is wrong, hateful, or evil?

Key Verse: Matthew 22:37-39: Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” and Matthew 5:43-44a: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy,’ but I say to you, love your enemies…”

Focal Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:1-7.

Open:

Love unconditionally

• Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. What does God mean by the word love? How do you love those within your family? What about the times when they disappoint, rebel against, or anger you?
• Are you able to love unconditionally, regardless of someone’s behavior? Why or why not? How do you love if they hate you, or are truly your enemy?
• Do you want to be loved unconditionally? Why is it so hard to love others like that, when we desire it for ourselves?
• What is the ultimate goal when we love enemies as God desires us to?

Love authentically

• Read verses 4-5a. What are some definitions of the word authentic?
• What do you do if someone is pretending to care for you, but you know they are insincere? When a believer acts in a way different from their words, what does the world call them? How does the world discern hypocrisy?
• If you believe you love your enemies, ask yourself what you base your answer on, and what your motivation is; explain your answer if you will. Where does genuine, godly love, spring from?
• Can you think of times you are rude? Why is it important to us that we are “right”? If you—and all Christians—reacted only in love to those who oppose us, what would happen? Would it impact their lives eventually?

Love completely

• Read verses 5b-6. Where do we draw the line in withholding love from our enemies? How much did Jesus love us? Read Romans 5:10. Do you love your enemies like that?
• Read Luke 6:32-35. Who are we supposed to love, according to these verses? What did Jesus mean when He said “God is kind to the unthankful and evil” people?
• If we consistently react with love when confronted with hate, what are some possible outcomes?
• If we love in order to gain something, what does our love mean to God?

Love strategically

• Read verse 7. If we love intentionally, when will we stop loving? Who are you focused on, if you love without giving up?
• How can you deliberately strive to love, no matter what occurs? Did Jesus love like that? Where did He draw the line?
• In John 3:16, what are some phrases that show how much God, before the creation of the world, ordained that He would love? Can you love like that?

Close:

As we think about loving those who are our enemies, often our mind goes to the guy who cut us off in traffic, or the person who ran the red light, almost causing a wreck. Perhaps it was the person who snickered when the boss called us into his office, or that post on social media that drove you wild. But those people are only frustrations in a normal day—they are not enemies. The truth is, very few of us have real enemies. Enemies are people who have a strong desire to see us hurt physically, mentally or emotionally; they spend time plotting evil and wicked plans to bring us hurt.

We get so comfortable being in control in our own life that we often believe those who challenge that control are enemies. The truth is, those aggravating people, as well as any genuine enemies, need the gift of God’s love more than the friends who are in our inner circle.

Rather than getting riled because of those who irritate us, we need to take our thoughts captive and pray for whatever circumstance has caused them pain. We need to be examining our heart to bring it into conformity with God’s will for us.  He established His word and His law, not to take away our freedom, our fun, or our happiness, but that we should find beautiful peace and joy by obeying those things He has said are for our good. Can you obey Him for a day? A week? Can you keep on “keeping on” until your heart has become like His?  If we can learn to carry our cross daily, we can love our enemies as Christ desires us to!

WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
September 15, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

It’s so easy to give a strong tongue lashing (from the privacy of our own car) to a near-by driver who causes a dangerous situation, isn’t it? Our anger rears its ugly head quickly! Can someone share a recent experience or anecdote?

Last week we began a new series, Who Is My Neighbor, focusing on the question asked in Luke 10:29, which prompted Jesus to tell the Parable of the Good Samaritan. Today we want to get an answer as to “How” we can really love these neighbors, many of whom are people we neither know nor possibly like. How does love act in these situations?

Key Verse:Matthew 22:37-39: Jesus said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Focal Passage: Matthew 5:43-48.

Be a Blessing

• Read Matthew 5:43-44a. What is the commandment Jesus gives in verse 44a? Read James 4:17. Now that you are aware of the commandment in Matt. 5:44a, how does James 4:17 hold you accountable?
• What are some ways we can be blessings to people we do not know? How has the Hurricane Dorian and now Tropical Storm Humberto enabled us to help “neighbors”?
• Read verse 45. What point is Jesus making about God? Does anyone recall the significance of “heaping” blessings? * How are we to be like God, in that we love and do good to people we may consider an enemy?
• Read James 2:14-17. How are these “works” meant to be huge blessings poured out on those we don’t know—or possibly don’t like?

Be a Servant

• Read verse 44c. This small phrase contains what action word? Why is it important for us to put our faith into action?
• Read 1 John 3:18. Why is God (through John) telling us to do this? The word for “deed” is toil; what does toil represent?
• If you help someone to the point of dirt and sweat, what type of picture will that portray to the neighbor whom you are helping? How is that what Jesus would have us do?

Be a Prayer Warrior

• Read verse 44d. Why is it important to pray for someone who is an enemy?
• Explain how/if you can dislike someone yet pray for their well-being. What will eventually happen?
• Read Romans 5:8. Did Jesus have enemies? Who, according to this verse? How much did He love them (us)?
• As you pray for others, how can you reflect on God’s character traits, and His desire to see the world come to Jesus?

Result: We’ll Make Our Father Proud

• Read verse 48. Why will praying for your enemies make you “mature” (not perfect as in sinless perfection, but as in complete, mature)?
• Is Biblical godliness attainable for whole-hearted Christ-followers? Does it come natural to humans to love and pray for their enemies?
• Read 3 John 1:4. As we strive to be more like Jesus, how does this make God proud? If Jesus said that loving and praying for our enemies will make us more like Himself, can we believe this? Why?

Close:

As we close the lesson sheet on this very amazing subject, how does it make you feel? Are you on edge that God would ask such a thing of you as to love and pray for those who hate you—or whom you hate—and you think it to be something that can be attained only by the Son of God? Loving our enemies seems easy when we’re sitting in the church pew, comfortable and surrounded by friends. It’s not so easy when we get up to leave, and the first person we see is that (hypocrite) who started the false rumor about you, or the man whom you know abuses his wife and children. Or you get in the car to go home and you’re hardly out of the parking lot before someone cuts you off in traffic; or the fast food drive-through hands you your food order, you pull out into heavy traffic, and your Coke is sweet tea! Suddenly you’re inundated with feelings that weren’t in your heart while the sermon was being preached.

Don’t mistake the truth: it is not easy to live the Christian life! We are at the bull’s eyes of Satan’s darts every day, and he knows exactly where to aim them. Our weaknesses are his area of expertise, and he knows exactly how to get us enraged, or impatient, or angry at those we are supposed to love. What is our answer?

Go to God’s word! His words to us—as we learned in 2 Peter 1:3—contain everything we need for life and godliness. Life is found in Him, and godliness can be cultivated day by day by taking your thoughts captive, controlling your urges to do the wrong thing, and turning each intent of the heart over to Him, begging Him for a heart like His. Does He want this for you? Yes. Is it His will for you to be more like Him? Yes (Romans 8:29). So, begin, or begin again. It’s never too late to start, and for the apathetic or backslider—second chances are His specialty!

Jesus in the House
September 1, 2019
Charles Billingsley

Have you recently had an opportunity to do a good deed for a friend or neighbor? Can you share what you did, and tell how you felt afterwards?

Today we are going to take a fresh look at the account of Jesus healing the paralyzed man in Mark 2. We’re going to examine the different people or groups present that day and see if we can identify which one we might have been in, had we been there. It is a report of friendship, faith and forgiveness, and we’ll examine the power each of those can play in our lives.

Key Verse: Mark 2:10-11: “ But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—He said to the paralytic,  “I say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.”

Focal Passage: Mark 2:1-12.

A story of friendship, faith and forgiveness

• Read Mark 2:1. Who is the first person we meet in this narrative? What was significant about His relationship to Capernaum?
• Read verse 2. We now have a group represented: who are they? How many people were inside the house?
• What does Jesus do when everyone is gathered? What is the word translated for ‘preached the “word”’?
• What is significant about the Greek word “LOGOS”? Does anyone recall where it is used in the book of John?

The Impact of Friendship

• Read verses 3-4. Who are the next two characters (or group) we encounter?
• What did the four men go through to get their friend in front of Jesus?
• Ask yourself: How far have I ever gone to bring my friends to Jesus?

The Result of Faith

• Read verse 5a. Whose faith did Jesus take note of? Whom did the men have faith in? What—do you suppose—did they believe?
• Why does faith require action? Can you back up your answer with Scripture?
• Read verse 5. Why did Jesus say this? What could He have said instead?
• Why is it imperative who or what the object of your faith is?
• Ask yourself: is my faith actively seeking to please and love Jesus always?

The Power of Forgiveness

• The paralyzed man had need of two things in his life; what were they?
• What happened to him the moment Jesus pronounced his sins forgiven?*
• Read verses 6-7. Who now enters the picture? What do they represent as they continually monitor what Jesus is saying and doing?
• If they were in today’s churches, who would they probably be? Share some examples from your own experience.
• Why did they feel Jesus didn’t have authority to forgive sins? What did the OT law require for sins? Did they speak their words aloud?
• Read verses 8-11. What did the scribes believe about Jesus? What was the significance of Jesus telling the man, “Arise…Go”?
• Read verse 12. What happens when Jesus is in the house?

Remember: The impact of your friendship for another can lead them to the Kingdom of God.

Remember: The result of a bold and daring faith can be a life change for one of your friends.

Remember: The power of forgiveness lies in the Hands of Christ alone. He is the only One who can save you.

Close:

Wouldn’t you have loved to have been in Capernaum the day Jesus entered that house?! We think of the gathered crowd, the anticipation, the excitement—and we feel it would have been the experience of a lifetime. But we must ask ourselves, which group of people, or persons, would we have identified with? The crowd, hyped up to see Jesus; the friends, hoping for a chance for their pal to get healed; the crippled man, such as we often are, needing His touch; the critics, always finding something wrong with the service, the decorations, the noise, or the lengthy message?

Yet—we are in church every week, and JESUS IS IN THE HOUSE! Perhaps He has come because there are some who worship Him; there will always be some in need who come for healing their broken hearts, setting their spirits free from prison, having blind eyes opened to see the Light. He comes because some friends pray for their buddies or family members; He comes to bring joy. And the critics come. The same critics who were in Capernaum, jealous that Someone is not doing things the way they’ve always done them, or preached the right sermon, or gotten glory they themselves sought.

Again, WHO ARE YOU IN THIS NARRATIVE? Pray that you are so in love with Jesus Christ that you are only waiting for His word to “Arise,” “Take up _____ (whatever He asks you to do),” and “Go!! (wherever He tells you!)”

*He was Justified—“Just as if I’d never sinned.” He is Adopted—into the family of God. He is United—with Jesus for eternity!

LIFEGUARD: FAKE TEACHERS 2 PETER 3
August 18, 2019
Jonathan Falwell

Was there a person you knew—or someone from television—that you looked up to when you were a child, to the point where you mimicked their mannerisms to the best of your ability?

Today we end the series on the book of 2 Peter. We have been made aware of tribulation and suffering that we will endure as a Christ-follower, as well as learning how to recognize false teachers. Today we look at an evil world gone mad, trying to stop the message of the Gospel and frighten Christians into silence. Let us commit to imitating Jesus Christ in all we do and say.

Key Verse: 2 Peter 1:2-3: “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as 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.”

Focal Passage: 2 Peter 3:1-18

People will mock what you believe

• Read 2 Peter 3:1-2. What did Peter want his readers to be mindful of? When truth is attacked, what are we to call to mind?
• What are some promises of God that you hold on to during times of stress?
• Read verse 3. Who will be a major force to reckon with in the last days? Why do some people dismiss the truth? Will there always be unbelievers?
• In verse 4, what is the main theme the wicked will taunt God’s people with?

But God will never be mocked

• Read verses 5-6. What example of the earth not continuing as it was do the scoffers overlook? Read Matt. 22:29. What are some evidences of the accuracy of Scripture, and why can we trust all of God’s word?
• Read verse 7. What had God—by His Word—done with the earth in the past? How is He holding it together? What will He do with the earth at the end?
• Read verses 8-9. Why has God waited to end earth as we know it? What is proven by the patience of God?

The end is a reality

• Read verses 10-12. What are four characteristics of the Day of the Lord?
• Jesus Christ is going to return! Is this a promise you can back up with Scripture? What type person does Peter say you must be, to be ready?
• Read Matt. 16:2-3. Jesus says we cannot be ready for the end unless we know the signs; how can we know those signs?
• Read Matt. 24:43. How must we be living, since we do not know the hour He will return?

Remain faithful because God is faithful

• Read verses 13-14. What are we to be watching for? In addition to be living in “holy conduct and godliness” (verse 11), how else are we to be living?
• Read verse 17. When it seems as if everyone around us is mocking God, what will keep us faithful to Him?
• Verse 18. What is our goal in this life? What is the answer we must have ready if asked by scoffers where our God is (verse 15a)?

Close:

An old hymn, Jesus Is Coming Soon*, has these words: “Troublesome times are here, filling men’s hearts with fear, freedom we all hold dear now is at stake; humbling your heart to God saves from the chastening rod, seek the way pilgrims trod, Christians, awake!” And the chorus begins, “Jesus is coming soon, morning or night or noon, many will meet their doom, trumpets will sound…” Those lyrics sound as though they could have been written for today. The sinful lifestyles lived by the people of nearly a hundred years ago seems nothing compared to the evil that is rampant in this world. The tragedy is that more people today are going to hell than ever before.

Peter was concerned not only for the Christ-followers of his day, but those who would be reading his letters for years to come. We who are alive more than 2000 years after he lived grab hold of the words and cling with faith to the promises left by the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing everything written in scripture holds true until the end of time.

Hopefully you are encouraged through this study of Peter’s writings to remain faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ, enduring suffering, recognizing false teachers or preachers, and looking for signs of His return. What a tremendous depth of the riches of Christ is found in these books! Lay hold of the truths, being steadfast til His return!

*Winsett, R. E., “Jesus Is Coming Soon”

LIFEGUARD: LESSONS FROM 2 PETER 1
August 4, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

It’s amazing the memories we retain from those who have been closely involved in our lives: grandparents, extended family, parents or guardians, or others. Can you share something that still impacts your life today, that you learned from one of them?

Today we begin a new series on lessons to be learned from the apostle Peter as he wrote to believers of the first century A.D. His writings, so filled with truth and life, not only helped the new Christians of his day, but have made lasting impressions through the centuries since.

Key Verse: 2 Peter 1:2-3: “Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as 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.”

Focal Passage: 2 Peter 1:1-21

The Door has been unlocked

• Read 2 Peter 1:1-4. Who was Peter writing this letter to? What was the precious faith he was referring to?
• In verse 3, what does Peter say God has given to us? What does this power enable us to do? How much of life are we able to navigate well if we use the Bible as our guide?
• When are we able to use this knowledge? Why will it continue in eternity?
• How did this knowledge come to us? What does he promise we will receive? What else will we receive (4b)?

So walk through the Door

• Read verses 5-9. We have been given everything needed to live in this world; what does it require from us? In verse 5-6, what character qualities are we to build into our lives?
• What is the promise in verse 8?
• What happens when we do not act upon our salvation experience (verse 9)? What do those who lack the qualities in verses 5-6 develop?

The later is gets, the more important it becomes

• Read verses 10-11. How does discipline in knowing scripture help us? Read Psalm 119:11. How does this verse corroborate 2 Peter 1:10?
• Read verses 12-14. How long did Peter say he would remind Christians of “these things” (1 & 2 Peter)? What did he know would eventually happen?
• Read verse 15. What did Peter do that ensured we would always have reminders of what he knew to be truth?
• Reading and memorizing God’s word is never “second nature”; what does it take in our lives to accomplish this? Read Gen. 3:19a. Symbolically, if you liken this passage to studying God’s word, to absorb the Bread of Life, what would be the necessary action needed? Does growth happen without effort on the part of the person? Why not?

This is the real deal

• Read verse 16-19. When a friend tells us of something they have seen, what type of impact does it make, over something which we read but have no personal experience or witness of? What testimony did Peter have?
• What were some of the miracles and actions of Jesus which Peter and others witnessed?
• Read verse 19-21. What was the significance of the prophecies that were fulfilled?

Close:

In this day of news feeds that are viewed with suspicion on every side, it is not often that we are able to have a first-hand report of something that is truly news-worthy—and be certain we can believe it! Yet the apostles who followed Jesus were eyewitnesses of the miracles He performed, the like of which had never been seen (John 9:32). How wonderful it is to have the testimony of a man who not only was able to encourage others of his day to a devoted walk with the risen Savior, but also the Christians who have lived during the past 2,000 years?

It is with conviction and encouragement that we are able to absorb the writings of the apostle Peter, knowing the hand of God was moving upon him as he wrote! The result is letters of how to live life by navigating it according to the revelation of Jesus Christ. Would that we be faithful as we follow Him through this crazy world! It is a book to be memorized, its message one that will sustain us through hard times, through the mountain tops, valleys, tribulation and help us experience joy.

Read it, commit it to memory, and be ready always to answer those who ask you the reason why you believe!

GOOD NEWS FOR HARD TIMES, PART 4
July 21, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Do you recall times in your childhood when you just had to know that one of your parents—or someone you trusted—was going to go through a difficult or scary situation with you? Why was that such a comfort?

We are continuing our series, “Good News For Hard Times,” as we look at the joy and comfort we get in knowing our God is going to be with us through any difficult circumstance we will face in this life. No one will be able to remove His protective presence from us, nor snatch us out of His hand! His promises are rock-solid, sufficient for all time, and He is all we need to endure the pain and suffering that the world, the flesh and the devil will throw at us.

Key Verse: 1 Peter 1:6 (NLT): “So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while.”

Focal Passages: 1 Peter 3:12-4:6; Heb. 4:14-16.

Discuss:

Reality #4: Worry is always a very real part of suffering.

• No one’s life is exempt from suffering. What are some of the situations that happen, making us wake in the night, unable to sleep because of worry?
• What is another emotion that comes in with the worry? Why do we fear?
• What should we do to lessen the grip worry and fear manage to get on us?

Response #4: God’s protection is real.

• Read 1 Pet. 3:12. How do we know that God’s promise is true?
• What are some situations that have happened in your life, on which you can base your belief that God is with you?

Be encouraged: God protects your reputation.

• Read verses 13-17. What are the promises in these verses? What are the “command” verbs in them?
• How does God want you to live? What does a life of holiness result from?
• God is concerned that you live righteously. What is one of the major factors in holy living? What are the two facets of forgiveness (read Matt. 6:12)?

Be encouraged: God protects your heart.

• Who affects your heart? What are some lies your head can tell your heart? What can you do with these hurts?
• What are some things the world can throw at us? Why can they not remove God’s protection?

Application:

• God’s protection will always be there. Read Romans 8:35, 38-39. Why can His protection not be removed from you?
• You can run to Him for help at any time! Read Heb. 4:14-16. How are we to approach God? How is this like the confidence you had in your folks as a child?

Be encouraged: God protects you from your past.

• Read 1 John 1:9. Why is it so necessary to not let sin go unconfessed? How much wickedness does He cleanse us from when we repent?
• What happens to our sinful past when we are made clean? Read Psalm 103:12. Are we condemned to live with our past choices?
• What is the difference between forgiveness of our sins and the continuing consequences of our actions? Read Rom. 8:1. How can we be free from the filth of our past?

Close:

Living a life of faith that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, believing Him able to save your soul and one day to usher you into heaven, is great—and a necessary starting point! But there is so much more to a relationship with Him after you’ve established a life of faith. It is the difference between knowing someone for who they are, being the recipient of their generosity, but then becoming friends or brothers with them. Your relationship has taken on new dimension!

In this day of technology, we might purchase a computer that is the latest model. We can log on, interact with friends or family, upload games, movies or entertainment, and do a variety of actions that provide hours of enjoyment. But only when we get into the manual telling of the capabilities of the device, spending hours learning its potential, and studying its inner ability, do we grow in our awe of just how truly ‘marvelous’ the thing actually is! Our relationship with Jesus Christ begins when we hear the story of His life, and what He accomplished on the cross at Calvary. But the enormous wealth of relationship advances when we spend daily time in His word, devouring everything He has felt it necessary to tell us! Add to the study a quality prayer life, and your relationship will grow deeper and deeper, until you find yourself hungering and thirsting for His presence. As your faith grows, your knowledge of Him will increase, and it will become very real that He has committed His life to you, being there in the good times and bad, never leaving or forsaking you, always ready to supply wisdom when you need it, and comfort in abundance. Why would anyone desire to go through this life with the filth of the world staining their garments, when they can experience the joy and peace from the One who loves them more than they ever thought possible! We need to tell them.

Easter Sunday – 2019
April 21, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Today, Easter Sunday, was a day filled with “the worst of times and the best of times,” to borrow a quote from Charles Dickens. If you were on social media today, or just in your ordinary life, can you give an example in either category?

Today is the day above all others that separates Christianity from any other religion in the world. We alone can point to the where Jesus Christ was buried on Friday evening, after dying from the crucifixion. We also are able to take you to that tomb, where on Sunday morning, the women went while it was still dark, and found the tomb empty, with angels proclaiming, “He is not here, for He is Risen, just as He said!” No other world leader ever walked out of a tomb under their own power and have hundreds of eyewitnesses to verify that He is alive!

Key Verse: John 3:17: “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 9-10; John 3:16-17; Philippians 1:21-24a.

Discuss:

WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR:

• Read 1 Cor. 15:1-8. What was Paul’s reason in verses 1-2 in writing to these believers?
• Verses 3-4 contain the truth which we proclaim. What do we call it? Why is it such “good news”?
• In verses 5-8, how many people saw Jesus after His resurrection? If you had seen a loved one die and placed in a tomb, then over 500 people saw that person walking and talking, what would you think? Would you doubt the truth?
• The entire gospel is contained and defended in these verses. Why is this so important?
• Read John 3:16-17.
• Read 1 Cor. 15:9-10. How do you imagine Paul’s attitude to be as he spoke these words?
• Did Paul deserve God’s grace on his life? Why or why not?
• Why is your journey so much like Paul’s? Was your life full of disobedience, dishonoring the commandments of God, but Jesus came to you anyway?
• Why is the empty tomb a reminder that Jesus appears to us when we don’t deserve His presence? 

TO LIVE IS CHRIST, TO DIE IS GAIN

• Read Phil. 1:21-24a. This was Paul’s innermost, truest feeling. How can you explain such a willingness to live or die for Christ? Is this how you feel or are you ready to be with Christ, “but not quite yet”?
• What did he mean, in saying these words?

Close:

Each year, as Easter approaches, we look for something new to add to this two-thousand-year-old series of events. The beautiful thing is, there is nothing to add: it has all been done, it was finished two thousand years ago, and there is nothing that can be put on as an addendum.

What does change, year to year, is the number of lives who have been radically changed. This year there are some who people would never have imagined that they would ever be saved. Some lives were so far down that all friends had given up. Yet God reached down and extended His grace to some of them. Others whom neighbors thought to already be a believer, actually got saved—and are literally a new person! The stories continue. Lives are changed, marriages are saved, addictions are healed, and diseases are cured.

Does that mean you lacked faith because God did not change something you asked of Him? Not at all. We see only the little picture, almost like looking though binoculars, missing everything except the small thing we’re focusing on. God sees the big picture—the overall, the beginning from the end. We see in fragments, minuscule portions, and put them together like a puzzle—most of the time incorrectly.

No, there’s nothing new to add to the perfect story of Easter. Jesus Christ, as Paul wrote in our opening passage, came from heaven to earth, and died for our sins, just as the Scriptures foretold. He was buried, raised from the dead on the third day, (just as the Scriptures foretold), was seen by Peter, then by the twelve, then by more than 500 of His followers at one time, most of whom were still alive when Paul wrote to the Corinthians. Then He was seen by James and later by all the apostles. Last of all, He was seen by Paul. Hallelujah! What a Savior! Then, so important to us—He reached down while we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and made us alive with Him forever. Now, we’re waiting for Him to return for us. What a glorious ending!

Words Matter : Isn’t It Amazing?
March 31, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

There are many incidents that happen unexpectedly, and we often react by being stunned speechless or amazed beyond belief! Can you think of an example?

For centuries animal sacrifices were necessary for the Jews to attain forgiveness of sins. Is it any wonder then, that the crowds were drawn to the charismatic, compassionate personality of Jesus, as He brought a message of hope, joy, peace and love? The Jewish leaders who hated Him reminds us of the legalism in our own history, when only hymns were sung (some churches barring instruments), and clothes for church services had to be suits and ties, or hats, gloves and “Sunday” dress. As we have evolved into a more casual worship style, some still cry “Heathen!” But God the Savior draws people to Himself with love—no matter their skin, clothes or singing—and His love can’t be denied, nor ignored. Isn’t that amazing?!

Key Verses: Mark 1:22: “And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

Focal Passages: Mark 1:21-28.

Discuss:

The Word of God Amazed:

• Read Mark 1:22. Who was the “they” mentioned in this verse? Can you give examples of what Jesus taught that ran counter to the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees? (Matthew 5 and Matthew 23 have many examples).
• How is that different from today, when educated men deny the existence of God, and the deity of Christ that is revealed in God’s word?
• Read verse 27. Why was His authority so different from that of the scribes and Pharisees? What did He promise to His listeners?
• Jesus had power the crowd had never witnessed; what was their reaction?

Can anyone share something miraculous He has done in your life, and it could only have happened by the power of God?

The Word of God Changed:

• Read verses 23-26; what happened to the man who had the demon cast out of him? Can you think of other miracles Jesus performed that left someone with a changed life?
• God has not changed throughout history. He still changes lives today! Can you share the testimony of someone you thought to be beyond the hope of salvation, only to see their new life in Christ?
• How is it possible for people to sit in church Sunday after Sunday, hearing the word of God preached, yet never coming to salvation?

The Word of God Traveled:

• Read verse 28. How was it possible for the news of Jesus’ fame to spread throughout the regions?
• When people heard of the miracles, the teaching, the feeding of the thousands, and much more, what do you suppose they did?
• Read Matt. 24:14. If you had lived in the days when Jesus spoke these words in Matthew, how would you have responded? Now how do you see it being fulfilled?
• Rather than going to far countries, what would happen if everyone in your church prayed to reach just ONE person in your own community this year?

Take Away: How do we recapture the wonder and amazement of the Word of God?

• Immerse yourself in it (i.e., READ IT!)
• Trust the Words you read (i.e., BELIEVE IT!)
• Tell others about the things you read (i.e., TELL IT!)

Close:

One of the beautiful hymns of the faith says “I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene, and wonder how He could love me—a sinner, condemned, unclean!”* This should be the theme song of every believer throughout the ages, that we, who were “DEAD, in trespasses and sins” were made alive together with Him (Eph. 2:4-10). Have you ever seen a dead person do anything? Yet we had death written all over us, mired in sinful flesh, and He made us alive in Him—as His own children. Isn’t that amazing??

Sometimes we hear a preacher or a televangelist, and something seems just a bit “off.” If we go home and search the scriptures, we will usually find where the problem comes in. That was what was happening with the crowds who followed Jesus, listening to His words of hope, love, joy and peace. Rather than the rituals they had lived under for so long, He was offering LIFE, and not just life, but life overflowing! His words were so full of authority that the woman at the well—who was blatantly immoral—ran back to her village of Samaria and the people flocked to Jesus to hear the words of hope for themselves! Isn’t that amazing??

We have our own story! We don’t have to tell someone else’s story, or the life of some wonderful missionary or preacher—just tell our own. We are not the same person we were ten or twenty or even fifty years ago. We have been made into new creatures, with plans and purposes fashioned for us by the Creator of the universe. Of all the things that could ever be, our own redemption story, which will result in eternal life in heaven, should be the most amazing experience of our lifetime! Is that still amazing you?

The Impact of a Godly Man

March 17, 2019
Dr. Rick Rigsby

Open:

Sometimes a public speaker will emerge who is able to inspire something within most of the audience to reach for a higher goal than they have ever tried before. What are some encouragements that move you to stretch yourself out of your comfort zone?

Recently we have been looking at the characteristics of a godly man. We have learned that he must first and foremost love God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. His family must come next. Today we have a guest speaker who is known for his message of how a godly man can make a legacy of impact in his home and his community when he is sold out to God. We welcome Dr. Rick Rigsby to our church.

Key Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4-5: Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.

Focal Passages: Deuteronomy 6:4-9.

Discuss:

Teach it in your home:

• Read verse 7a. Where is the focus of the man who teaches the precepts of the Lord to his children? How far can the legacy reach?
• Was this a commandment or a suggestion? What were the “words” that Moses was referring to?
• What distractions do men today allow to come between their role of intentional teaching and procrastination leading to abandoning their role?

Model it in your neighborhood:

• Read verse 7b-9. Where are some of the places you go when you walk during the day? Where are your thoughts during this time?
• What three things—or situations–should you be looking for as you go through your day?
• What do your neighbors see as you come and go? How do you conduct yourself?

Telling the truth:

• What are two warning flags that are raised as you relate experiences and activities of your day? Why would lying, half-truths and exaggeration be those caution areas? Is there a difference?
• Why is the truth so vitally important in all areas of your life?

Thinking the best of others:

• Why do we want to assume the worst motives for the actions of others?
• Why is it so vital to not judge someone, as opposed to evaluating them? What is the difference? Read Matt. 7:1-3. How do you close opportunities when you judge someone else?

Doing what we say we will do:

• What does it mean to you to “give your word” even if you don’t vow it to be a promise? Read Matt. 5:37. What does God command you? Why?
• How many times do you let work or distractions keep you from a promise made to your child to spend quality time with her/him?

Go. Teach. Baptize. Make Disciples:

• It is often said that we will be able to take only one thing with us to heaven. What is that? Read Proverbs 11:30. Will you have anyone in heaven because you lived your life?
• This was the last commandment Jesus gave; do you take it seriously or let the world and its busy-ness distract you?
• How can you get so full on the world’s entertainment, food, lifestyle or “stuff” that you have no room left for Godly living? Explain.

Close:

Words typed in a study or a closing have no ability to convey the extreme passion and impact that comes from a speaker who knows—beyond a shadow of a doubt—that his message has the ability to change lives. If you have not taken the time to listen to the amazing sermon preached by Dr. Rick Rigsby, please do so. It can change your life.

Growing up in the home of a man whose heart was sold out completely to God, Rick was taught the value of the basics that have been almost forgotten in this millennium. His father, reared in the South when whites were taught to value a person based on their color, overlooked the failures and ignorance of that teaching, focusing rather on being the type of man who put God first in all situations. He was not bound by his color, his education, nor his flesh; rather, he let God’s word be the authority he lived by and reared his children to do the same.

May we all see how the impact of a godly man affects his children as they grow into adulthood. Godliness leaves a legacy that can last for generations.

Love In Action
March 3, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Sometimes projects or DIY items that need to be assembled seem like they should be easy! We look for the beginning logical steps, and soon find ourselves in a mess, needing instructions. Can anyone relate?

The past two weeks we have looked at the word “love” from God’s perspective and studied what it is—and what it is not. We have learned that God sees love as the highest priority for us who are called believers: love God, love your neighbor, and love your enemy. That may seem easy, but today we will see how to put love into action by taking the steps God’s word gives us.

Key Verses: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14: Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. (NKJV)

Discuss:

Be Ready:

• Read 1 Cor. 16:13a. What does God want us to watch for? The word watch can be translated “be on your guard.” Are you able to add additional situations that would compel you to be more watchful than you at first thought? Read 1 Pet. 5:8 and 2 Pet. 2:1. Were these possibilities mentioned?
• What is the reason we should be watchful? How will that change the way you live your life in front of others?
• Read 1 Thess. 5:6. What type of sleep does God mean? How does apathy or selfishness reflect a “sleepy” attitude?

Be Right

• Read verse 13b. How do we “stand fast” in the faith?
• If you have decided to follow Jesus, what are some of the mental disciplines or commitments that you are pledging your life to carry out?
• Read Phil. 4:1. How do these two verses go hand in hand?

Be Tough

• Read verse 13c. When we think of bravery or strength, it appears this context applies more to a man than to a woman, although there are many times a woman must be brave or strong as well! What are some possible situations when a man needs to be strong?
• Does anyone recall the original meaning of the word “brave” as used in the text? Perhaps a quote from Matthew Henry would be helpful: “ ‘Act the manly, firm, and resolved part: behave strenuously, in opposition to the bad men who would divide and corrupt you, those who would split you into factions or seduce you from the faith: be not terrified nor inveigled [lured, ensnared] by them; but show yourselves men in Christ, by your steadiness, by your sound judgment and firm resolution.’  Note, Christians should be manly and firm in all their contests with their enemies, in defending their faith, and maintaining their integrity. They should, in a special manner, be so in those points of faith that lie at the foundation of sound and practical religion, such as were attacked among the Corinthians: these must be maintained with solid judgment and strong resolution.” (Matthew Henry Commentary to the Corinthians.) Why do we want Christian men to step up to the plate and be godly in their leading and loving?
• Read 2 Sam. 10:12. When a soldier fights, who is he fighting for?
• How does today’s society portray men, husbands and fathers? If you accept yourself as the world sees you—either a bully or spineless—where will your family be when you are old?

Be Tender

• Read verse 14. How will a genuine and godly love manifest itself in your life?
• Read 1 Pet. 4:8. What are some things you can do as people cross your path during the day that will show them you truly care for—or love—them?

Close:

You’re probably just like the rest of us—you have heard people justifying their disgust with Christianity, saying it’s “just a bunch of dos and don’ts!” The more you read the Bible and learn God’s heart, the more you see, as Jesus said in Matthew 22:34-40, that love is the summation of all the rules: love the Lord with all your heart, and love your neighbor as much as you love yourself. If you do these, you will be a person after God’s own heart.

That is so easy to say, and yet within minutes of committing ourselves to this lifestyle, we are besieged with attacks to make us lose the promise we have made. We almost immediately have a choice to react with love, or react with intolerance, anger, or any other response that would be the antithesis of what we know to be correct. Is it something outside of our ability? Not at all! God promises that the more scripture we commit to memory, the more it will prevent us from sinning (Psa.119:11). He also promises that if we are tempted to sin (in this case, to act outside of a loving response), He will make a way out—whether it’s biting our tongue, ignoring the provocation, or turning around and leaving (1 Cor. 10:13). We are also told we can do all things through His power, for He will give us strength (Phil. 4:13), which means we can react in love, no matter the vexation. Most of the time, it’s just easier to give in to the frustration we feel and react in like anger—but that is not God’s way. Man’s anger will never achieve the righteousness of God (Jas. 1:20), that righteousness that we should so desperately want to emulate. May we say with Job, “I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.” (Job 23:12).

And the Greatest of these is Love – Part 1
February 17, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

The world, Hollywood, and movies or TV are all trying to re-define “love” to be consistent with whatever they are seeking to justify in any given set of circumstances. How would you define love? Does your definition differ than you would have described it many years ago?

Recently we’ve been looking at God’s plan for our lives as we seek to obey Him in love. If we are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and spirit, and love our neighbor more than we love ourselves, we certainly need to understand what God means by “love.” Today we’re going to hear the first part of a 2-part sermon on love, examining 1 Corinthians 13, inspecting each word to see what God expects from us, and how we are to represent it.

Focal Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13.

Discuss:

Love is patient and kind:

• Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 and Matthew 7: 21-23. What is the common thread between these two passages? What is lacking in both? What does this teach us?
• Read 1 Cor. 13:4. What relationships are you to be patient and kind in?

Give the group time to answer. Did anyone list “enemies”? Why should it have been listed?

• Why do most of us struggle to be patient and kind? Can they be separated? Why do they act as a team? Will someone give an example?
• What is the biggest attribute that patience requires? What was the meaning of the original language when it referred to patience? How is that different from the meaning today?
• Read James 2:15-16. What was lacking in the person who said, “Be warm and be filled!” and went on about his life? Was this kindness? Love?
• How can one change an outcome by showing kindness? Most of us will say we want to be like Jesus Christ. As the crowds of ordinary people gathered around Him, what qualities did He always show?

Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude

• What do you immediately see as a common thread underlying all four of these attitudes? Who are they all focused on? Where should our focus be?
• How does jealousy (or envy) begin? How can you quench it when you first detect it? What is the best way to rid yourself of jealousy?
• How can you detect pride within yourself? What should you do immediately?
• How do you react when someone is out-and-out rude? How can you respond without being similarly rude?
• Read Phil. 2:3-8. How are jealousy, boastfulness, pride or rudeness the opposite of what Jesus Christ was like?
• Why are these four negative traits not to be tolerated in a Christ-follower?

Close:

Nearly everyone is familiar with the 13^th chapter of 1 Corinthians—mainly because we pull verses out to use them when someone in our relationships causes an offense! But God has given us some incredible “meat” to chew on with these qualities. Some should never be found in a mature Christian, others will be a work-in-progress until the day we draw our last breath.

Paul immediately lays out the walk of a Christian as being a heart-condition, rather than external works (which make men Pharisees). Activities done—even in the name of Jesus—without love, are nothing but “civil good,” able to be done by anyone. The same theme is in Matthew, as used in bullet 1. Works will always be seen by men, but the motivator that is acceptable to God is a heart full of love.

Once Paul starts down the road of defining love, there is no room for excuses or weak synonyms. Love IS…., and love is NOT. None of these are natural to our flesh: they are disciplined qualities that the soul sold out to God learns to use to bring Him glory and honor. There are probably few people reading this who can honestly say they are always patient and kind, but never (or seldom) jealous of others, boastful, proud or rude. Most of us fall at least once a day in any of these areas, and probably more often. We want to keep the pathway to     1 John 1:9 wide open, able to run to the Father’s arms and throw ourselves on His mercy and forgiveness, letting Him clean us up from the stains of the world, ready to return to the ministry He has given us. Make it a goal this year to learn the characteristics of love, putting them into practice where it is the hardest (your home? Your job?). Bringing God glory and enjoying Him forever is the first calling of a Christ-follower.

KEY VERSE: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”   1 Cor. 13:13.

  Say Yes : Time to Follow (part 1)
February 3, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

How many times have you signed up for a class or seminar, only for the first week to come and you have a car problem; the second week, a virus has you down; the third week, a family member needs your help, and by the fourth week you barely give the night a second thought?

In reviewing our verse for this series, we are seeking God’s expectations when He said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” As we have seen in past weeks, loving God leaves a path as we go through our day: perhaps a smile, a word of praise or encouragement, an action for the good of a stranger, etc. These are examples of “fruit” when one seeks to do His will. Today we are going to look at the importance of the local church, and why we need to make our attend-ance, service and growth a priority that is never put on the shelf, never letting it become something to do “next week.” Great discipline and intentionality must be exercised in order to eventually grow where we are hungering and thirsting for the Living God.

Focal Passage: Matthew 4:18-22.

Discuss:

Go to church:

Background: Most unchurched people feel pastors can be stereotyped as always asking for money or pushing to add to their numbers. The truth is, God Himself instructed His people to worship Him through Old Testament temples and New Testament churches. Our study today is to show His will is for believers to serve and love Him and each other.

• Read Matt. 4:18-22. This small nucleus is the original “setting apart” of men who would eventually change the world. The same calling is for us today, as we answer His call on our lives. What would be symbolic of “leaving our nets”?
• Read Luke 4:16. How do you know that Jesus was always in “church” on the day of worship?
• Read Matt. 18:20. What are some of the reasons we worship together? What are the reasons many people are apathetic about their attendance? What promise does Jesus make in this verse?
• Read Heb. 10:25. What can Satan accomplish if he can get us isolated from other believers?
• Read Acts 2:41-47 for a picture of the first NT church. What were their customs? In Acts 5, the story of Ananias and his wife, Sapphira, is told. Can someone paraphrase what you know of it? What was so important about the early church’s purity? Why have we fallen away from that purity?

Grow in church:

Statistics: Statistics show an alarming trend among Christians today: only 36% attend church more than once a month. Those who consider themselves “faithful,” attend church 1.26-2.3 times per month. Less than 20% read their Bible daily, and only 1 out of 10 memorize 3 or more verses per year. The good news is that the church attendance among Gen Y and Gen Z is seeing a definite curve upward, perhaps due to the detached world of social media, leaving many needing real personal contact.

• Read Matt. 5:6. How much time do you spend preparing for a normal work week or quality family time? How does this compare with the amount of time you spend in God’s word? What are ways you can grow as a Christian? What promise does this verse end with?
• Read 2 Peter 1:5-8. What are the eight qualities a believer should strive to achieve? How does one succeed in acquiring them? What is the promise these verses end with? If you had these qualities, and saw the promised fruit, would you ever be satisfied to return to a life of mediocrity?
• Read John 15:5. What is the promise in 15a? What is the warning in 15b?

Close:

It is a misnomer to believe that worship in its truest form can be a “habit.” To keep this treasure—your relationship with God—safe and alive, you must discipline yourself to be a vibrant part of a local church body as long as it is possible. Eventually you will find that the weeks you have to miss the fellowship of meeting together leaves a hungering that you find is satisfied only by getting back with your “family” as soon as possible. There is true encouragement and a love that exists among believers who love God with all their hearts and love their neighbors as much as they love themselves. Their walk will bear fruit, as we read above in 2 Peter.

Have you ever sat down and listed the benefits of being part of a local church body? It is almost every Sunday that one will hear another person state, “I don’t think I would have made it through this past year had it not been for my church family!” What a beautiful statement, and a wonderful witness and testimony of that local church. If your church is very large, you probably already realize that unity, friends, and those who hold you up in prayer normally comes from a smaller group, like Sunday School (by whatever name) or small groups who meet in homes.

Knowing the local church was ordained by God, that it is continually being built by Him, and that Satan cannot defeat it (Matt. 16:18) is enough reason to give it the preeminence it deserves. We know that we cannot be accepted by God because our parents loved the Lord with all their hearts—each person must accept Jesus Christ for himself. Have you made Him your Lord? If so, worship and meeting in your local church should be “a given” as much as the unwritten law that you’re going to your job each day! Your God deserves your “utmost, for His highest!” (Oswald Chambers).

KEY VERSE: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15.

 Say Yes : What Must I Do As I Follow Christ?
January 20, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Most people claim not to be influenced by the many commercials on public television, yet the jingles often stick in our minds! What do you think of when you hear “Just Do It!” or “Have it your way!” or “Double your pleasure, double your fun”? Are they all based on actions that gratify ourselves and not someone else? If you’re alone, write your answers in a notebook.

As we begin a new series on what we must do to follow Christ, it seems appropriate to begin with the Israelites, whom God chose to be His people, and the hardships they suffered as they learned to trust Him fully. History shows us the intimate details of their lives as they followed their own desires, repented, came back to God and eventually the cycle was repeated time after time. May we learn from their experiences, and faithfully follow Him, saying “Yes!” to His commandments.

Focal Passages: Deuteronomy 8:11-18; James 1:22-25.

Discuss:

Know His Word:

• Read Deut. 8:11-18 to understand how seriously God takes His commandments for you to live a godly life. What stands out to you?
• We must Read God’s Word! Read James 1:22a. What do you immediately notice about Deut. 8:11 and James 1:22a? Why is it not enough to just intellectually know God’s word?
• Read Joshua 1:8a. A recent poll on those who reveal their Bible reading track record, show about 20% of churched Americans read their Bible daily, whether it’s a favorite passage, a regular time of systematic reading, or a familiar verse. How can a Christian grow without knowing God’s Word?
• We must Think About It (Meditate on what we’ve read)! Read Josh. 1:8b. What are Joshua’s instructions and why?
• We must Obey God’s Word! Read Josh. 1:8c and Jas. 1:22b. God did not change His will for you to observe and obey His word during the thousands of years from OT to NT; why is it still His will that His words be obeyed?

Know His Way:

• Read Jas. 1:22c-25. This may seem a little hard to understand. A quick analogy is the amount of time some women spend “putting on their face,” in the morning. It takes much time to get everything perfect, but when she leaves the mirror, she is confident she looks her best. During the day, her thoughts may go back to her appearance, always knowing she still looks well. How does that illustrate the difference in the verse in James?
• Read Josh. 1:8b-9. To be confident you are carrying in your heart the words you read in Scripture, you must know it intimately. How can you meditate on it as you go about your day?
• Why are you told not to fear or be afraid?

Respond:

• Read John 14:15. How does this line up with the verses you read previously? If you give your spouse or family the same amount of time you give the Lord (prayer, Bible reading, meditating) during most days, would you make them happy? Why or why not?
• Read Eph. 2:8-10. In your heart, do you think the good works you do will get you into heaven? Explain your answer. If they do, would you be able to boast? Read Matthew 7:21-23. Were these people boasting about what they had done for Christ? How did Christ reply?
• Where do “good works” come from? How is that like the fruit of a tree that bears because it has a good root system and plenty of water?

Close:

Everyone who is a regular attender at church knows in his heart that he needs to be reading God’s word. Satan uses the busyness of our schedules to thwart that need, creating time constraints that cause us to plan a time to read but somehow it seldom comes about unless we are disciplined and intentional. It is setting aside part of your morning or day when you get alone with God and absorb the “marching orders” He has given for us to be good soldiers through this life of land mines. They lurk on every corner, from the flirtatious wink of a co-worker to the pornography available at our fingertips on the internet.

If we, indeed, have a passion for following Christ, we may get slightly off-kilter by the term meditate. Have you ever considered how like a cow our mind can be? One of the very unique animals created by God, a cow has four stomachs: as she takes in food or pieces of potential problems, the grass, hay or food goes into the first stomach. During the digestive hours (up to 72!), the cow will burp up the food, chew on it some more, where it eventually goes into the 2^nd stomach. There it is separated from the bad that can hurt the cow (bits of metal, wire, etc), then on to the 3^rd stomach, and eventually reaches the 4^th, where the digestion is finished and the cow produces clean, white, healthy milk! So it should be with us: God’s Word—even one verse—can be ingested into our soul, where, during the day, we can think on a word or phrase. Any garbage that is exposed can be purified out, and eventually the Word will do a work in our heart. How wonderful is that?

The Scripture has all that we need to run a household of faith, have a functional family that is sold out to Christ, and live blessed, peaceful lives (2 Peter 1:2-4). When we are in the Word of God daily, letting it saturate our soul and spirit, applying it to our actions, and putting into practice the principles God has given us, the overflow spreads to our family unit, our friends and our acquaintances. Why should we walk in a defeated, downtrodden path, when He has given us a path of Life (Psalm 16:11)? Let us walk in His light, teach it to our children or those closest to us, and spread love as we obey Him!

KEY VERSE: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15.

 Letting Go, Moving On
January 6, 2019
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Everyone messes up! Mistakes made in the past are very hard to forget, and it takes a strong person to move on after a life-altering choice. We can ruin our lives wishing we could live certain times over again, but to put a bad event behind us is necessary for mental health. Can someone share a memory?

This past year has been a season when we’ve been constantly encouraged to make Christ the priority in our lives, grow daily in Scripture, and live godly lives. Now it’s time to look back to see if those messages bore fruit. At the same time, we have the opportunity to put past failures behind us and start with a clean slate in a new year. We will look at the great apostle Paul and learn life lessons of “keeping on keeping on” past adversity.

Discuss:

Recognize the pain and failures of the past are not the description of our future:

• Read Philippians 3:7. The NLT quotes Paul as saying the things that were important to him at one time are now worthless. Can you share some things you have done in the past that are now meaningless because of what Christ has done, and that what is really important is Christ?
• That verse also tells us we are to forget the past and look forward to what lies ahead. It’s easier said than done. Among your group discuss the difficulty of doing this.
• Read Genesis 50:14-21. This passage is the perfect biblical example for pastor Jonathan’s message today on letting go of the past and moving on to the future. What were Josephs brothers afraid of? Would someone be willing to share a fear of something in their past they carried for a long time they felt would follow them for all their life? We cannot allow our past to keep us fearful and shape our future. Discuss that we cannot change our past.

Take the right steps …. Seek forgiveness:

• What are Joseph’s brothers doing in Vs 16-17a? The same steps they took are the same steps we must take for salvation. What two things did the brothers do? These are the same steps we must take with others. Why is this hard?

Respond the right way… forgive

• When it is reversed and we are the ones being asked to forgive, what must we do? Discuss how hard it is to ask someone for forgiveness.
• In vs 17b, why do you suppose Joseph reacted the way he did?

Know that the job of judge is not ours

• In vs 19b Joseph asks an important question. Discuss the question and its effect? A judge in our judicial has an important and weighty duty to perform once someone has been declared guilty. What is it? Do we sometimes try to mete out punishment on someone who has wronged us? In Romans 12:19 it tells us to let God handle the punishment. Talk about why we should do that.

Know that the job of peacemakers is ours

• Vs 21b tells us Joseph reassured his brothers by speaking kindly to them. He forgave them then proved it by offering to move on. Discuss how this corresponds to God’s forgiveness of ourselves.

Close:

As we look forward to 2019, it is imperative that we put things behind us that we cannot change. We never find joy by continuing in strife. The solution to strife is to pray about it, pursue resolutions, and be persistent to pray about those conflicts. We will have freedom that comes as a result. For 2019 let’s keep the focus we discussed last week:

• Stay in God’s Word – read and study His Word daily
• Talk to Him daily – a strong prayer life is the only way to keep the line of communication open with God
• Keep a journal of what you’re learning, reading, and praying about
• Read books, stories, articles about faithful followers of Christ
• Connect with others in the journey to remain to remain accountable – Christians were not meant to live in isolation
• Prioritize your faith walk over EVERYTHING else – this includes a commitment to regular, intentional worship services.
• Don’t quit
  • If you get behind in your devotions and bible reading, you can catch up
  • Falling behind yesterday is not an excuse for today

Doing these things will change the way you live and feel. It will change everything,

 The Final Word
December 30, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Everyone messes up! Mistakes made in the past are very hard to forget, and it takes a strong person to move on after a life-altering choice. We can ruin our lives wishing we could live certain times over again, but to put a bad event behind us is necessary for mental health. Can someone share a memory?

This past year has been a season when we’ve been constantly encouraged to make Christ the priority in our lives, grow daily in Scripture, and live godly lives. Now it’s time to look back to see if those messages bore fruit. At the same time, we have the opportunity to put past failures behind us and start with a clean slate in a new year. We will look at the great apostle Paul and learn life lessons of “keeping on keeping on” past adversity.

Discuss:

Nobody’s Perfect:

• Read Philippians 3:12a. Even the great apostle Paul indicated elsewhere that there were periods of his life he would like to do over. Can you share a time when you thought you were right, and wouldn’t listen to advice, only to learn later you were wrong? What did you learn from this?
• Think of the people you know, whom you feel are “practically perfect in every way” and discuss why you think of them like this. God knows no one is perfect. Read Psa. 103:13-14. Why do you compare yourselves to others?
• Read Romans 7:15-25. How did Paul say he struggled? How can you relate to the spiritual battles he fought? What can you learn from him?

Keep Trying:

• Read verse 12b. How does this verse inspire us, when the going gets tough?
• Read 2 Cor. 11:23-28. Have you suffered as Paul did? How was he able to keep going, through the perils he endured? How do yours compare with his?
• What is the biggest reason you believe may be a factor in people giving up? How can you help them?

Let Go of What’s Behind:

• Read verse 13a. Who is the great accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10)? Does he accuse you of your past?
• No matter how much we agonize over past choices, most can’t be undone. What are some ways we can leave that baggage in the past and move on?
• Can you think of scriptures that would help break the chains that bind us?

Look Forward to What’s Ahead:

• Read verse 13b. How do we keep our focus on the years ahead, when we are able to serve Christ through whatever gifts He has given us?
• The beginning of 2019 is upon us; what are some ways we can increase our joy in this new season of our lives?

Do What’s Needed:

• Read verse 14. Have you ever run a race? Where do you keep your focus as you move ahead? How can you get there if you get sidetracked? What causes you to keep moving forward? Read Prov. 24:16. Does this help?
• Share verses to memorize that will furnish strength when you are overcome by the weights you carry in this world? Read Matt. 11:28-30.Does Christ want to help you shoulder these burdens?

Take Away:

• Stay in God’s word daily! Learn more of scripture each day this year.
• Talk to God daily! How would your relationships be if limited to 30 sec. daily?
• Keep a journal for your thoughts, lessons, prayers and growth.
• Read books by people who have had victory in battles that you are facing.
• Connect with others who can encourage you. Isolation kills spiritual growth!
• Don’t quit! Don’t allow challenges to make you throw in the towel—victory is probably just around the corner.

Close:

Another year! It seems we just put last year’s Christmas decorations away, made our resolutions, and suddenly the stores begin putting up the tinsel again—and you realize a new year is coming fast. How does time pass so quickly? More importantly, has your spiritual growth shown an upward trend this past year? When you made those resolutions last year to be more faithful in church, Bible reading, and prayer, did it happen? If not, start again! There will always be challenges that Satan puts in our way, or hindrances to carrying out our mission, but it is with a new lease on life that we realize whatever is past is PAST. Let it go—it can’t be redone. If you need to ask forgiveness from someone, restore something to someone, do so, but don’t carry the baggage that causes your spirit to suffer and your joy to be suffocated. Christ has forgiven you—what better news could you have to start 2019? Go out, find a friend, and tell them your story. It may change the new year for someone you love!

KEY VERSE: “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.” Philippians 3:12.

 For Unto You… Righteousness
December 9, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Knowing an up-coming event is going to happen can keep one in joyful anticipation! All of us look forward to special occasions that occur as a rarity. Can you think of something you were anxious to see finally come to fruition—and the enjoyment was amazing?

Last week we looked at the Old Testament, focusing on some of the many prophecies that Jesus Christ fulfilled when He left heaven, coming to earth in the form of a tiny baby, born in a stable. He was the Enemy of Satan, the coming Blessing, Ruler, Presence and Hope for the world. Today we look at the response we should have to His coming, and how it impacts our lives.

Discuss:

A Call to Righteousness:

• Read Jeremiah 23:5-6 and Zechariah 3:8. Who is Jeremiah quoting in these verses, who was going to raise up the Branch? Why is He called a “Branch”?
• What was He going to do on the earth?
• What is His name by which He is called? Read Isaiah 64:6. How can we sinners be righteous?
• Where is the presence of God here on earth? How should His presence affect our actions?

A Call to a Higher Standard:

• Read Colossians 3:5a. What does this command mean to the Christian living today?
• Read Col. 3:17. How are we representing the Lord Jesus each day? Can our representation be a negative testimony? Will anyone want the relationship with God if they see us in church on Sunday, but living (speech, actions) as the world during the week?
• Read 1 Cor. 10:31. What are some ways we can show Christ in our lives each day?
• Why do you think Christians are finding it easier and easier to use profanity in daily conversation, or using God’s name carelessly (omg, etc)?

A Call to Point the Way:

• Read Malachi 3:1-2. This was written about 400 years before Jesus was born. Who was Malachi referring to? Read John 1:6-9 and Matt. 3:1-6. How did Matthew and John describe John the Baptist?
• How and where did John announce that Jesus was now among the people?
• Read verse 2b once more. How was Jesus described? Read Job 23:10. How does He test and refine us?
• When we tell someone our story of salvation, what is the major thing that they should notice about us? (2 Cor. 5:17).
• John came into the world to fulfill the prophecy that the Messiah would have a forerunner. How did people miss this fulfilment?
• We, as John, have a responsibility to point others to Jesus Christ. As the time draws closer for His return, will you have souls in heaven whom you have witnessed to? Read Prov. 11:30b to see God’s take on this!

Close:

The wonder of Christmas forever remains the same, no matter how much the world desires to take Christ out of the season. The story of the angels’ coming to Mary and Joseph, the trip to Bethlehem, and the birth of the Christ Child in the manger will never lose its appeal to anyone whose heart is open and willing to accept the glorious facts of the Gospel.

Can you imagine life without hope, without Someone who has the power to change your life, and save you from your sins? It would be a dismal existence without Him. The millions of people around the world are waiting for someone like you to tell them there is a way to have their sins forgiven, and hope for a future. How can we turn down so great a responsibility? Have you imagined standing before God and seeing faces of those you’ve passed by, willing to let someone else witness to them? What if they spend eternity in hell because you did not go? We need to take the story of the gospel, preaching it to anyone who has open ears. Say with Isaiah, “Here am I, Lord, send me!”

KEY VERSE: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulders. And His Name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6.

 Being Thankfull is Not Enough
November 25, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

With our thoughts recently centered on gratefulness, did you find any part of your life that you could not adequately express thanks for? For instance, maybe someone who’s spent years desiring a child and finally gives birth, and can hardly speak of that joy without crying! Can you share?

As Thanksgiving week winds to a close, we want to properly thank God for being the giver of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17). Some of His gifts, however, are so great as to fall outside our ability to thank Him enough. As we look at those gifts, we want to write their significance on our hearts, daily praising Him for what He has done, and how He has changed our lives.

Discuss:

God’s Love:

• Read John 3:16-17, and personalize it in your own Bible. Can anyone share their testimony of salvation? How do you feel your love for Jesus compares today to what you felt the day you first accepted Christ as Savior?
• Read Rom. 5:8. Can you share a recent moment when the reality of what Jesus did on the Cross made a new impact on your life? How can you keep the significance of that incredible act fresh, giving God praise daily for it?

God’s Power:

• Read Col. 1:15-17. How powerful do you see God? By what method did He bring creation into being? How did Jesus do many of His miracles?
• What does His power mean to you personally?
• Read Heb. 2:9. How does it impact you that God the Son left the glory of heaven, came to earth as a human, fully man but fully God, and died on a cross to save you? Would you give your child to die for the sins of the world?
• If He has the power to speak creation into being, to die for the sins of everyone who trusts in Him, what does that mean He can do with your problems?

God’s Healing:

• Read John 3:14-15, again personalizing verse 15 with your name. Who does this verse say is able to be saved?
• Read Num. 21:5-9. What was the sin of the Israelites? How did God intervene in order to provide a way of forgiveness? Do you think any of the people refused to look upon the serpent because it seemed “too easy”?
• Does anyone recall the story of Naaman, the captain of the Syrian army who became a leper, and his servant girl? Paraphrase it for the group if you do, then read 2 Kings 5:10-14. How did the provision for Naaman’s healing differ from that in Num. 21? Why do we think healing should be hard for God?
• Can you think of an area where you need God’s healing touch, but feel you are not worthy, or the “steps” given in counseling are too easy? Share only if you want.
• God’s Gift:
• Read John 1:29 and again, personalize the gift of salvation with your name. Do you struggle with thinking that belief in Jesus as God’s son, Who died for your sins so that you can be forgiven and become His follower, is too simple?
• Read 1 John 2:2. The simplicity of the gospel is so applicable to all ages that children and adults, poor or rich, may understand and be saved. How can you keep from becoming complacent about the size of the cross? What does it mean to you?

Do you recognize the significance of the gift (read Rom. 5:12-21 at home)?

Have you received the gift? If not, what hinders you?

Close:

No matter the area of your life, the subject discussed, or the initial impact something has made on you, it is difficult to keep an attitude of joy about it day after day. Eventually, we find ourselves expecting the day to bring what it has been: whether a daily rose from a loving spouse, to a clean house with supper ready. Perhaps the gladness of a new baby might last longer, as he falls asleep in your arms, but one day when he’s starting down the road to independence your expectations might become less ecstatic. When you are contemplating the gifts of eternity, however, the wonder of the Cross should never become less than a constant delight. Realizing  the eternal impact it has on your life—you who are unworthy, sinful, and make a myriad of mistakes daily—should give you pause to stop and glorify God for His continued goodness to you! What would you be doing, and where would you spend eternity if He had not stepped to your “grave” and called you by name, out of your tomb, as He did Lazarus? “Even when [you] were dead in sins, [you] has He made alive with Christ!” (Eph. 2). Last week’s key verse is also powerful for today: “rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” How appropriate for those things that mean the difference between life and death!

KEY VERSE: “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17.

Giving, Gaining, and Greed
November 11, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

What brings you the most joy? Is it giving a very essential item or gift to someone truly in need, giving a new toy to your child to add to his shelves of previous gifts, or receiving a gift to add to your own collections? Can anyone share?

We are entering the season of Giving. Whether it is the giving of Thanks, the giving of Christmas items for children in foreign countries, or the giving of ourselves to help others, these next few months will determine whether you desire to be a giver or a receiver. Most people will admit to desiring more “stuff,” but this is not Biblical. Today, we will talk about giving, gaining and greed.

Focal Passages: Jeremiah 22:13-16; Acts 20:35, 2 Cor. 8:9; Luke 14:12-14

Discuss:

“Having” (stuff) never leads to contentment:

• Read Jer. 22:13-155a. The scripture records Jeremiah’s words to Jehoiakim, the king. What does God have against him?
• How does this remind you of two other kings who were consumed with getting things, including adoration and worship? Read Dan. 4:29b-30 and Eccl. 2:10-11.
• Thinking of your own home, does it reflect a lifestyle of spending to display it in pride, or is it a home where a family lives and loves? Can anyone share?
  • Has your pride in a beautiful home, new cars, or personal collections made you a better Christian? How can it be a stumbling block?
    

Giving is what brings joy:

• Read Jer. 22:15b. What were the things about Josiah that God commended?
• How were the two kings—Josiah and Jehoiakim—different?
• What did you do in 2018 that gave you the most joy? How was someone helped by what you did? Can you share?

Giving is what brings you closer to Christ:

• Read Jer. 22:16b. What was God referring to, regarding Josiah? Did it strengthen Josiah’s relationship with God to share what he had?
• Why do we have a new appreciation of God when we share ourselves?
• Why did God give you the resources you have?

Giving is what makes you more like Christ:

• Read 2 Cor. 8:9. What were the riches of Christ throughout eternity past? What was His poverty when He came to the earth? What are the riches we receive from Him?
• John 3:16 begins, “For God so loved the world that He GAVE”; so why does giving make us more like Christ?
• What are some things we can give to others daily?

Giving is what leads to reward:

• Read Luke 14:12-14. What was Christ telling us in this passage?
• When is the last time you invited someone out to eat, to your home, or gave in some other fashion, when you knew they would not be able to repay you? Can you share?
• Why would we get rewards in heaven for doing that which we should be doing?

Close:

Almost everyone has heard the famous response of John D. Rockefeller, considered to be the richest man in modern history, when asked how much money would be enough. His reply? “Just a little bit more.” Many of us live our lives desiring “just a little bit more,” and find it never satisfies. The truth is, we all love gifts. But do you love “getting” more than giving? What does your home witness about you? There is another truth Paul quoted Jesus as saying, in our Key Verse for the day, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” It might interest you to know that a foreign country, where Christianity is growing daily, considers America to be a country in need of prayer. Not prayer for our ungodliness, but beseeching God to take away our enormous wealth, as they see it as a huge obstacle to following Christ whole-heartedly.

Not everyone receives with genuine gratefulness: some feel the action tends to make them indebted to the giver. How sad! True generous giving is an essence of the Godhead. God’s greatest gift to the world, Jesus Christ, was the ultimate gift to pave the way for our eternal life. Christ gave His life, the most He could give, for us who are unworthy and could obtain salvation in no other way. The Holy Spirit gives gifts to men, comfort, conviction of sin, and so much more. Giving of ourselves—our time, our gifts (listening, counseling, meals, etc.) in times of pain, and our resources to bless others—transforms us, as Paul tells us in Romans 8:29-32, into the likeness of Christ. And he goes on to say, “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Giving is beautiful, giving is Christ-like, and giving will bring rewards to throw at the feet of Jesus.

Key Verse: Acts 20:35: I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Masquerade : Be Real
October 28, 2018
Dr. Ben Guterriz

Open:

Have you attended a function where someone tried to impress those present, yet their family or close friends knew their words were not consistent with the person they are at home? Can someone share an example, and tell how you felt for the family?

As we continue our series Masquerade, today we focus on the Mask of Religion. Wearing this mask, we try to appear spiritually as someone we’re not. We wish to appear perfect, which is not only deceitful—therefore sinful—but ruins opportunities to show the world how faithful and loving God is during our worst trials. Dr. Ben Gutierrez teaches us how important it is to be transparent, so our testimony becomes powerful and gives praise to God for His grace to us.

Focal Passages: Matt. 23:1-6, 11-12; Mark 5:1-15, 18-20; Mark 7:31-33a; Eccl. 7:20; Jas. 3:2; 1 John 1:8-9.

Discuss:

THE DANGERS OF WEARING THE MASK OF RELIGION

It Has No Spiritual Benefit:

• Read James 3:2. What signals do you pick up when someone you are talking to is not authentic? Do you notice a lot of emphasis on “I”?
• What impact does portraying a spiritual manner have on one’s own character? What are some of the sinful qualities that wearing this mask hides?

It Repels People:

• Most people have some idea of the kindness of Jesus as a man, and how He lived His life. They see through someone who claims to be a Christian; how?
• Read Eccl. 7:20. What type of feelings might a child experience if they see their parent or guardian act in a holy attitude at church, yet be the opposite at home? What might happen as they get old enough to leave home?
• Read 1 John 1:8-9. Why do people resort to wearing a mask to cover a life of discontent with themselves or their circumstances?

It Is Not Believable

• Back to the reference from Ecclesiastes, what do other people think when they know you are pretending to have “all your ducks in a row”?
• How does it alienate friends or acquaintances if you are not authentic in portraying your lifestyle?
• What is at the root of wearing a mask? Read 1 Peter 5:5. How will your testimony reflect the fact that you are covering a perceived flaw?

BIBLICAL EXAMPLE OF GOD’S BLESSING ON BEING REAL

Two Examples of those Who Wore Masks

• Read Matt. 23:1-6, 11-12. Who were the two groups in this passage whom Jesus was using for an example of how NOT to be?
• What were some of the reasons they were an offense to God?
• Their lifestyle was summed up in verse 5a: what was it? Do you know anyone who lives like this, perhaps with their clothes, home, yard or other pretense?

An Example of Someone Who Was Real

• Almost everyone knows the story of the Gadarene Demoniac. Will someone paraphrase the story from the book of Mark (for time’s sake)?
• Read Luke 8:37. What was the reaction of the people to Jesus because of the now fully-restored man?
• Read verse 18-19. How did Jesus respond when the man asked to go with Him and become one of His followers?
• Read verse 20. This man was known by everyone in the region of the Gadarenes. What was their reaction when he told them what had happened?
• Read Mark 7:33a. Jesus decided to return to the towns where the demoniac had lived. What impact did his testimony have on the people? How do you know this?

Close:

No doubt many of us have recognized in the past few weeks areas where we have continually worn a mask. It would be the prayer of every pastor who has spoken during this series that we are able to break free from the bondage this mask gives us. It is not hiding anything: those who are authentic realize immediately that we are fooling only ourselves. There is a universal law among financiers that to recognize a counterfeit bill, one must become so familiar with genuine currency that the false is spotted instantly. It is the same with the masks we wear: true Christ-followers will spot those whose life does not line up with Truth. At the same time, for those who don’t know us well, our family will recognize the deceit and it will alienate us from them eventually. Unbelievers may not know Jesus as their Savior, but most people will be able to tell you that He was someone who lived a life of being real and will know you are not living that life. All in all, the result will be that a mask will be holding back its wearer from a life of fullness and joy. It is not unlike an elderly woman (or man) who keeps themselves fit, wearing clothes and make-up meant for youth. The evidence is there for everyone to see—except the one looking from the inside out.

Key Verse: Matthew 23:12: But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Masquerade : Our Digital Masks
October 14, 2018
Jonathan Falwell

Open:

What happens when you look through Facebook at the profiles of those you graduated with? Do you become discouraged as they appear so gorgeous, handsome, or look younger than you feel you do? Does it occur to you these may be intentionally misleading photos? Can anyone share an example?

Today we continue “Masquerade,” seeking to take off the masks we wear so others may see the real you, rather than an inaccurate picture of who we try to be. We want to focus on the digital world we live in—and the issues caused by modern technology. Are you open to having God shine His light on your spirit, exposing the masks you use on social media?

Focal Passages: Romans 8:5-8, James 4:1-8, Galatians 6:10, Ephesians 4:15, Proverbs 11:2, 16:5.

Discuss:

Rage and Anger

• As we have done on previous weeks, will someone please explain why we feel the need to present a false front to others?
• Read James 4:1. What example can you give that has caused you, or someone you know, stress or anger through social media over the past year? How did you (or they) respond?
• Read Gal. 5:19-16. Why will you always have conflict between the flesh and the spirit? Read Rom. 7:15-25. As you exercise the fruit of the Spirit, what happens to the things of the flesh?
• Read Gal. 6:10. Who are we to be good to? How is responding to a negative tweet or post in the same manner as the one who posted the original, lowered you to their standard? Can you explain how hard it is to refrain from a rebuttal, and why it’s a victory to overlook what has taken place?

Jealousy

• Read James. 4:2-3. What is the root cause for posting pictures of new homes, new cars, or new possessions? How does that cause a feeling of covetousness? How is that wrong? Why do we always want more?
• If we seek the things that would enrich our lives for Christ, what would be our emotional feeling?

Desire for Acceptance

• Read James. 4:4-5. What are some of the things the world throws at us that are hard to resist?
• Why do we feel the need for acceptance so strongly that we go to great lengths and sometimes sinful actions? Why is our understanding of how much God loves us not sufficient for all our needs at all times, in all ways?

Pride

• Read James. 4:6. Where does pride ultimately lead us? Can we be proud and serve God at the same time? Read Prov. 13:10 in KJV (if possible). What does this verse say about all disagreements?
• Read Prov. 11:2 and 16:5. How much does God hate pride, which is at the root of the need to wear a mask?
• What matters to God: how we look or whether we are pointing others to Him for salvation?

Our Response

• Read James. 4:7-8. What are the instructions in these two verses?
• Why does James say that our loyalty is divided between God and the world? Is that the way it should be?

Close:

Wearing a mask has become such a normal part of who we are, that it might seem an impossibility to be transparent with our feelings. Yet through God’s help, we can overcome any sin, realizing the lies come from Satan. One of the surest methods of defeat is to spend hours on social media, where our mentality is fed with large helpings of things that would encourage worldly feelings—covetousness, jealousy, anger, wrath, gossip, and so much more, including the temptation to interact with someone of the opposite sex—or an old flame. How does God feel about these hours? They could be put to such good use by witnessing of things He has done for you, blessings He has given you, and His love for you. One lady (many people, actually) makes it a point each day to write a short devotion, overflowing with God’s love. It will not be known until eternity the impact her short posts have had on people, and those whose lives she has touched. Would that we all used social media to further God’s kingdom!

Key Verse: Romans 8:5: For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.

Masquerade : The Art of Covering
September 30, 2018
Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Do you know someone who acts in a certain manner, but their words just do not seem to ring true? Without naming names or gender, what is it about them that you believe indicates they are playing a part which is false?

Today we begin a new series that will cut many of us to the quick: the unveiling of the mask we wear to appear as if we have everything in our life together, even if we’re falling apart on the inside. Over the next few weeks we’ll examine the dangers in this action, hiding the real person in order to keep our imperfections from the eyes of the world. Today we set the stage by looking at the general reasons and risks some feel the need to wear a mask.

Focal Passage: Genesis 27:1-29.

Discuss:

Putting on our masks starts with deceit

• Do you recall ever going to a costume party? What was the primary thing you wanted to achieve?
• Once your costume was on, did you find yourself acting in character with how you were dressed? Explain what you mean.
• Read Gen. 27:1-10. Why did Rebekah choose to deceive her husband? What other option could she have chosen, which would have been right in God’s sight?

Putting on our masks starts with feelings of inadequacies

• Read verses 11-12. What was wrong with the protests Jacob laid before his mother? What could he have said if he did not want to sin against God?
• Read Gen. 25:20-26. What had God told Rebekah? How do you see her actions? What was she teaching Jacob by instructing him to do this deed?
• If we put on a mask of perfection, which is ultimately a lie, what are some of the feelings we may be trying to cover up? Why is it lying?

Once we put on the mask, it starts a never-ending cycle

• Read verses 18-24. Although Rebekah began the charade, Jacob was now making his own choices. What five lies did he tell to keep the plan together?
• What could Jacob have done at any point while before Isaac, to redeem himself in the eyes of his father?
• Why does one lie lead to more? Who is the “Father of Lies”?

Our masks will all be removed

• Read Heb. 4:13. No matter how hard we try to cover up our inadequacies , what will happen?
• Why should we cultivate a lifestyle of truth, without any masks of hypocrisy?
• Read Matt. 10:26. If you choose to live a lie in order to appear something you are not, who will possibly remove that mask at a time you least expect it—and possibly in a very humbling way?
• If you have been saved, what is your position before God? What are some of the descriptions of your relationship that should make you feel valuable and
• valued? (Child of God, etc.) How does this speak against the act of deceit?

Close:

This passage leaves us with the feel of a modern novel: barren wife finally gets pregnant and learns she is going to have twins. God Himself tells Rebekah the “older shall serve the younger,” leaving her with a promise she could/should have trusted. The story progresses as the father prefers one child, the mother prefers the other. At that point you begin to sense a conflict in the home that will cause immense problems. Then comes an evening when Isaac, old and of bad eyesight, wants to give the blessing to the older son Esau, the firstborn who had already rejected his birthright for a meal (cf Heb. 12:15-17)—thereby himself thwarting the words of God to his wife many years before. Rebekah, overhears the conversation between Esau and Isaac, and takes it upon herself to control the situation by deceiving  her husband, to make certain that her favorite son, Jacob, would receive the blessing (already promised by God, Who would have brought it to pass in a holy way). Consequently, she is not only usurping her authority over Isaac, but teaching Jacob that it is permissible to lie. Jacob, consenting to do her will, offered token reservations, to which she had the answers. As Jacob goes in to his father, he himself now takes the responsibility of the choices to deceive, when—five times—God gives him ample occasion to throw himself upon Isaac’s mercy.

How like Jacob we can be! Not wanting to seem less holy, less perfect, or less rich than our neighbors, we put on our mask, remembering to play our part when we are in the position where it matters. We may be looking for admiration, gain, power or anything else the world offers, but it’s tiring to keep that role going all the time. How much better if we could see the truth: that those who know us well realize we are far from perfect, and in their hearts they label us a “hypocrite.” Yet even with our imperfections, we were chosen by God to be His child! If we could get that from our head into our heart, we would be full of awe that would humble us; we would have the mask we wear torn away and would be given beauty for ashes.

Key Verse: Matt. 10:26: Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed and hidden that will not be known.

How Church? : Tell, Grow, Send
September 16, 2018
Matt Willmington

Open:

Most people will tell you they have continued to learn new things on a regular basis. Can you share something you’ve recently learned? We’ll relate it to the topic in a few minutes!

The past few weeks we’ve looked at the God-established body called “the church.” We’ve examined the importance of it, how relevant it is in today’s world, and how much a local body of believers can achieve. Today we look at “how” we do this thing called Church. We will find that it is a very simple but effective way to obey the calling of God on our lives.

Definition of a living, active church: It is the Family of God, under the Authority of God, living out the Word of God, on a Mission for God.

Focal Passages: Matt. 4:18-20; Matt. 11:28-30; Matt. 28:16-20; Dan. 7:13-14; Rev. 7:9,10.

Discuss:

The Church Is: The Family of God

• Read Matt. 18-20. What happened as Jesus walked through life?
• Who is He calling now?
• What relationship do those who follow have with Him (read Mark 3:33-35)?

Under the Authority of God

• Read John 14:21. If we are the children of God, how will we live our lives?
• Read 1 John 2:3. What is our authority?
• Read 1 John 2:17. If we love God, will we be happy to obey Him? What type of attitude will you have?

Living Out the Word of God

• Read 1 John 3:16,17. How do we live our lives?
• Do you react to those you meet during the day the same way you would if they were friends? Is this as Jesus would do?

On a Mission for God

• Read Matt. 11:28-30. How often do people who are in a spiritual storm search out a church?
• What should we do, especially for those who are facing the storms of life?
• There are promises in these verses; what are they? How can we convince others that they need His yoke of grace?

TELL

• How can we begin to help those who do not know the love of God?
• Why does it matter that we ask them to tell us their story?
• How important is baptism to you? It is the first ordinance that Jesus told us to do after salvation, even as He was baptized as He began His ministry. Why do people put it off? Have you?

GROW

• There are always plenty of people who were not raised as you were, and who know so much less about Jesus than you. How can this be important to you?
• What are other ways you can continue to grow, in order to “sprout seeds” that can be planted in someone else’s life?

SEND

• If you know you must be prepared to leave home in an instant, what are some preparations you will make? How is that the same as being “instant in season and out of season” (2 Tim. 4:2)?
• Are YOU willing to go?

TEST YOURSELF: On a scale of 1-10—if 1 is close to Jesus, 10 is far from Him, where are you?

HOW do you walk closer? WHO are you following? WHO is with you that you are bringing with you?

Close:

How many people do you know who have storms of life raging, yet never go inside the church building? If they have never been to church, they may have no idea of the peace and joy that can found in Jesus Christ. You may be the only one who will ever tell them. It is important that you gently and lovingly show them you care about where they will spend eternity, then listen as they tell you their story. Most people love talking about themselves: give an interested, listening ear. Are you aware that many converts to cults are those who have been hurt in their youth, believing that God is good, yet feeling betrayed and leaving the church when a parent, sibling or loved one dies, as God answered their fervent prayers with “No”? There was no “trust” factor built into their thinking.

We need to take the Great Commission to heart, not choosing to leave it to the pastoral staff. It was not given to pastors—it was given to fisherman who chose to follow Jesus, learn from Him, and then carry His message to their world. We, too, need to carry this message to our community, our neighbors, co-workers and friends, so that they will not be lost for eternity. Can you imagine standing at their judgment as God orders them to “Depart from Me—I never knew you,” and they turn to look you in the eye, and ask why you never told them of the saving grace of Jesus? It is vital that we make use of the time we have left. Do you know how to witness? It’s never too late to learn! Ask any of the staff of the church, and they will guide you to someone who would be willing and happy to help you. Answer like Isaiah, “Here am I Lord, send me!”

Key Verse: Matt. 28:18-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age.” Amen.

Why Church? : The  Purpose of The Church
September 2, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

When you hear someone ask, “What on earth am I here for? Why was I even born?” do you have an answer for them? Share some of your thoughts.

The past two Sundays we have looked at the incredible, beautiful gift from God called “the church.” There is the local church—that body of believers who worship and do life together, and the Universal church, encompassing believers all over the world. We have also looked at the importance of gathering in a large or small group of like-minded believers, and asked what God meant when He “built” His church. Today we look at the results we need to be achieving in the local church to change our world.

Focal Passage: Ephesians 1:6-8, 12-14; 4:14-15

Discuss:

We give Him Glory

• Read Eph. 1:12-14. Two times in these short verses Paul tells us why the church gathers together each week. What does he say?
• Who are the Gentiles? What happens when Christ saved you (vs. 13)? What is our response to be after salvation?
• How can we know we are carrying out the purpose God had for the church?

We bring Him Growth

• Read Col. 1:28-29. If we are in the church, what should we be doing? Read Matt. 16:18. Who built the church? What will destroy it?
• When should we present the gospel to those with whom we come into contact?
• Read Eph. 4:14-15. What are some of the lies the world tells us? What do you reply when someone says they don’t need to go to church to be a “real” Christian? Who are some of those who try to devise clever lies against truth?

We celebrate Grace

       Because we have been saved from our sins

• Read Eph. 1:6-8. What was our condition before salvation? After salvation, does He stop forgiving our sin? How do you know?
• Why did God forgive YOU, and not someone else whom you know intimately? Did you deserve it more? Why or why not?
• Do you live your life so that those you meet want what you have?

       By how we show grace to others

• Read 1 Pet. 2:9. Why should we show grace to others?
• Read 1 Pet. 4:8-10. We see scriptures that exhort us to be different from the world, and to do good to those around us. What does verse 9 tell us?
• Does it matter to God if we choose to obey Him or not? Read 1 John 2:3. What does this verse tell us?

We recognize His Grip

• Read Heb. 7:25. Does Christ have to die again because the world is still sinning? Why was His death sufficient for all people, for all time?
• Read 1 Cor. 1:8-9. Will He ever leave you? Are you convinced in your soul that God will never leave you, or let you slip through the grip He has on your life? What will make it such a part of your heart that you will want to shout?

Close:

The local church, like our physical body, has no limit on the amazing functions it can perform. When twelve men were turned loose on the ancient world, they turned it upside down with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Yet millions of believers around the world today struggle to make an impact that changes their family or community. Have you asked yourself why not? What can you do differently? Do you truly desire to change your community for the Lord, working with other believers in your local church? You can start with the people you know who, for whatever reason, do not get out on Sunday morning and gather to worship Christ. Yet they believe themselves to be saved, and they desire not to go to hell. How can you help?

God’s love for us is beyond our understanding; the closest we can come to grasping it is the love we have for our children, but even that is flawed by our humanity. Most of us who have had small ones have, at some time, let their grasp on our hands slip, and immediately we are in panic mode. Their existence is so important to us that we cannot act calmly until they are back in our arms. Yet has it ever occurred to you that the grip God has on you will never let go? If we lose sight of this truth we need to search Scripture for verses that reinforce His constant and abiding love for us. Perhaps when we get a genuine grasp of His intense love for us, we’ll want to share it with those we meet. As Dr. Falwell would tell his son, Pastor Jonathan, “if a microphone is stuck in your hand, use it to tell folks about Jesus Christ!” Whenever an opportunity presents itself, share the good news that saved you.

Key Verse: Ephesians 1:13-14: In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory.

Flannelgraph Faith: Passing it on
August 12, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Parents will tell you how difficult it was the first time they left their infant in the church nursery or day care! Placing them on a school bus for the first time usually brings on tears for Mom. Why is it so hard to trust the responsibility of our precious possessions to someone else?

We are continuing our series of learning lessons from Bible characters who were strong in the faith, using the vintage style flannel-graph with modern-day technology. Today we see how Paul rejoiced that his passion of taking the gospel to all places was to be handed off to the next generation. The years were passing, enemies increasing, and Paul knew his time on earth would eventually end. Let’s join him in Acts, chapters 16 to 20, learning from him how to pass our faith on to those who will hold dear the beloved Scriptural doctrines.

Discuss:

Changing Our World Must Include the Next Generation

• Read Acts 16:3-5. What kind of reputation did Timothy probably have that Paul would have taken him “under his wing” for mentoring?
• Paul was continually subjected to persecution (2 Cor. 11:23-28) and knew his ministry needed to be given to those who could carry it forward after he was gone. Why was/is this necessary?
• Why is it normally so hard to turn our responsibility over to the someone in the younger generation?

Trusting the Next Generation

• Read Acts 17:14. Paul, Timothy and Silas arrived in Berea, only to have Paul’s dissenters attack him again. Why was he willing to leave Timothy and Silas in Berea and himself leave that area?
• How are you pouring your life into someone who will be able to carry on your love for Jesus? Why is it important that you are willing to give what you value most into their possession?
• Share some ways in which you are trusting someone of the next generation.
• For those who are parents, what was it like to come to a milestone: school, driving, college, even marriage? Why?

Commissioning the Next Generation

• Read Acts 19:22. How did Paul show Timothy that he trusted him to carry on Paul’s burden for the churches?
• What did your teen understand the first time you confidently handed them the car keys and asked them to go pick up ______ (sibling, grocery, etc.)?
• How will you know when it is time to hand over responsibility?

Celebrating the Next Generation

• During the next couple of chapters, we read of Paul having reunions with his co-workers. What must the joy have been as they reported to each other?
• Read 2 Tim. 1-2. What relationship did this older apostle have with the younger one whom he had mentored? Do you have a son or daughter in the faith? How are they carrying out what you passed on?
• There is no greater joy for the Christian than to see one’s children walking in truth! (3 John verse 4) Can you describe the feeling?

Take Away:

• Are you raising the next generation for Christ? What are you doing?
• Are you sending out the next generation (are you handing them the keys?)
• Younger generation: are YOU ready to take over?

Close:

As you read from these chapters in Acts, it is impossible not to mentally examine your life to make certain there is someone from the next generation, whether grandchild, child, friend, etc., that you are investing your life in. Are you praying that they are ready to receive the baton and carry the church forward? All investments in life indicate that there has been time put into knowing the person or firm. One does not knowingly invest their precious goods into something or someone whom they do not trust. Who in the next generation are you investing in?

The investing of your time and talents may seem a small thing. You may not see results in your lifetime, but God has the timeline, not you. As long as you are faithful as a steward in your Father’s house, He will bring about the increase. Let those you love see you putting what you love into God’s work. It will pay great dividends one day!

Key Verse: Acts 18:5: When Silas and Timothy had come from Macedonia, Paul was compelled by the Spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus is the Christ.

Focal Passages: Acts 16-20. Take some time this week to read these four chapters that tell of Paul’s trials and victories!

Flannelgraph Faith: The Power of Purpose
July 29, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Do you have a purpose for your life, one that motivates you to actually accomplish it? Or perhaps, in the different seasons of living, your purposes have changed. Can you share either?

Today we look at a married couple from the New Testament who had such love for Jesus that they had completely committed themselves to His work. They were willing to go anywhere they felt led, at any time, to do the work of the ministry. This study continues our series using a modern day flannel-graph, giving visual images to tell a story of love for God and each other.

Discuss:

Reputation Matters

• Read Acts 18:1-4. Aquila and Priscilla, Jewish believers who lived in Rome, were forced to leave by a decree of Claudius. They were strong believers of Jesus Christ and made their way to Corinth. When Paul arrived there, he was introduced to them. Why do you think he was led to them?
• What was their occupation? What was Paul’s trade? What did Paul accomplish by earning his own living while preaching the gospel?
• Surely the reputation of Aquila and Priscilla was such that Paul felt equally yoked in abiding in their home in Corinth. Why would this have been important?
• What do people say about you (you don’t have to answer out loud)? How do you stand out differently from those you work with, or have for friends? Do they know you are a Christ-follower?

   Solidarity Matters

• Read verses 5-11. When the message of Jesus Christ was rejected by those in the synagogue, what did Paul do? What did Jesus tell him in a vision?
• Why is it so much easier to quit, or be silent, in the face of adversity than to continue?
• What did God do by way of encouragement while Paul was being verbally attacked often?
• When you are going through difficult situations, why does it give you so much confidence when God sends others to come along beside you?

 Commitment Matters

• How long did Paul remain preaching in Corinth? Can you remember a job or situation that you endured, only to see it result in victory? Can you share?
• Read verses 18-21. From what you’ve read, how can you conclude Paul left with the young church doing well? Whom did he take with him when he left?
• After visiting with the Ephesian believers, Paul felt he had to leave. Speculate as to why Aquila and Priscilla remained in Ephesus. Was their work finished?
• Has God called you to a certain task? Are you being obedient?

Growth Matters

• Read verses 24-28. What were some of the qualities Apollos had? What was his greatest lack? Does this possibly reflect the reason why Priscilla and Aquila were needed in Ephesus? They now had a new church plant! How would that make youfeel?
• Are you being used to grow the kingdom of God? If you are not growing, God cannot use you the way He desires. What are some ways that you grow? Are you willing for Him to use you?

Close:

This study of the life of two individuals who were committed to God gives us several options to serve as a great study! These two people had a marriage that could provide a role model for any couple who desires to serve God. They were faithful to each other, with a common goal, not holding onto material possessions or home, but willing to carry out God’s plans for their lives. They saw fruit not only in planting churches, but in discipling and mentoring others also.

It also gives us a picture of the great apostle Paul, often regarded as one who lived in the Spirit always. Yet small verses like Acts 18:6, Acts 15:37-39 or Romans 7:18-19 show us that he was human just as we are, sometimes reacted with frustration, just as we do, and was even ready to quit—yet he was on the verge of victory! It should give us extra courage to know that we can do great things for God if we grow, draw near Him moment by moment, and be ready in any situation to let Him use us. That only comes about if we have prepared our heart ahead of time.

Key Verse: Acts 18:9-10:Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” (NKJV)

Focal Passage:Acts 18:1-28.

Flannelgraph Faith: The Courage of Conviction
July 15, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Some people seem to have the gift of courage, while others struggle with stepping out of their comfort zone. Can you think of an example when you showed courage even though you were scared?

Today we continue our series using the modern version of the flannelgraph, choosing godly characters from the New Testament. This week we will focus on Stephen, a righteous man who became known as the first martyr of the Christian religion

Discuss:

Courage in our faith comes from above before it comes from within

• Read Acts 4:23-31. Peter and John had just been arrested and taken before the Sanhedrin. Can anyone tell the story of what had happened?
• These two men were perceived to be “unlearned and ignorant” (vs. 13) yet stood boldly before the ruling Jews. Where did their courage come from?
• Why is courage not natural for us? What are some areas where courage is desperately needed in our families? Why do we not take a stand?
• Read Acts 6:8. Why would God give us courage to defy fear?

Courage in our faith is from the overflow

• When are you—in any situation—the most confident? Why is that? As you spend more time with God, do you become “filled and overflowing” with His promises and faith in what He says?
• Read Acts 22:14. What do you know about Stephen? What did he answer when he was taken before the High Priest? Why did he have so much courage? Read Acts 6:8.

Courage in our faith will protect us from beginning to end 

• Read Eph. 3:19, and Romans 15:13 (in The Living Bible if possible, or one that translates abound as “overflowing.”) Why do we have to have conviction in our faith before we can be used by God in courageous ways?
• Read Acts 7:57-60. You may ask, “where was God’s protection for Stephen as he was being stoned?” Will someone answer?
• Why did Stephen cry out to God to receive his spirit, and how could he find the love for those gnashing their teeth in hate as they killed him?
• Probably none of us feel we can face a death of martyrdom, yet every day across the world this is happening. Where do they get their courage?

Close:

The life and age of Stephen is one we know nothing about, although probably he was a husband and father. The Bible records he was a man “full of faith and the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:3-6). Would that we all had such a eulogy from God! Yet he had such faith that he was able to preach a very long sermon to the ruling Jews, laying the guilt for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ at their door, not fearing his coming death. His conviction that Jesus was truly the Messiah gave him a courage that would face any attack against his belief.

Stephen had the courage of his convictions because he was confident in Whom he believed, and in what he believed. While we will not take a stand for our preferences, we will for our convictions. Do you know the difference? You may prefer a movie with no cursing, but if you continue to watch it, you do not have a conviction. Turning it off and removing it from your home means you have a conviction and will take a stand against it. That difference gives one confidence to face ridicule or back down! Those around Stephen that day saw a good man die; the Jews thought they were squelching the growing community who believed that Jesus was the Messiah; God saw the result: that those who would flee Jerusalem would take the news of the gospel of His Son and spread it throughout the world (Acts 8:1). May we all be so courageous in our conviction as to simply tell our neighbor before it’s too late.

Key Verse: Acts 4:19-20: But Peter and John answered and said to them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” (NKJV)

Focal Passages: Acts 4:19-20, 23-31; 6:8; 7:57-60 and Romans 8:38-39.

The Church There and Here
July 1, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

So often in businesses, additional help is needed to cover shifts when vacation time occurs. Most are hesitant to volunteer, hoping someone else will take the responsibility. Can someone give an example?

This week we want to continue last week’s sermon, looking at the way in which Christ uses believers to build His church. Today we will examine our individual role, our mission, and the reward we know we will receive in heaven. We were given a personal responsibility (gift) whenwe received salvation. Now we must identify our task and apply ourselves to it.

Focal Passages: Ephesians 4:1-7; Hebrews 12:1, Phil. 3:13

Discuss:

We are called

• Read Ephesians 4:1. Paul begs us not to forget our calling. What is he referring to?
• What is required for us to accomplish our own calling?
• Read Romans 12:4-5. Is everyone’s work the same? Why not?

To live differently than the world

• Read Eph. 4:2. Why is this the opposite of what society, the media, and commercials would have us believe to be the correct way? If you are living a life of humility (putting others before your own needs), discuss why this is so difficult when it comes to overtly sinful persons who cross our paths?
• What is the opposite of those virtues in verse 2?
• Read Titus 2:11-13. How does God desire that we be separate from the world?

To be united in mission

• Read Eph. 4:3-4a. Occasionally we see people who cannot control a part of their body because of a physical malady. How difficult would this be if the body of Christ operated as dis-unified members? Are we striving for unity?
• Why does the world not take the church seriously in these days of turmoil?What can each of us do about it? What focus must we have?
• We can each make our own calling our focus. Where do we start?

To celebrate our future

• Read Eph. 4:4b. If we are saved, what is our hope for the future?
• Read Phil. 3:13. Paul was able to forget his former life. Can you forgive yourself past sins in order to be effective for the calling God has given you?
• Read Heb. 12:1-2. This is a description of how we should approach life. Name some of the witnesses that make up this “Hall of Faith” and tell why it is amazing that God used them. What does verse 2 tell us to do?

All because of Him

• Read verses Eph. 4:5-6. What truths should our lives center around?
• Read Heb. 12:2 again. What did He do for us while we were “dead in trespasses and sins” and what is He going to do to see that we finish well?
• If our church body—we as individuals and corporately—are going to be effective in a world of upheaval, what does our focus have to be?

Close:

The church is a body universal, made up of every nation, people and language. Have you had the experience of meeting a Christian in an unlikely country or situation, and immediately a sense of the same Spirit dwelling in each of you comes over you? That is how Christ wants the body to work: healthy, growing, and full of love. It is His plan for our lives, and the best life that can be had for all of us.

Individually, we all need to be members focused on Him throughout our day, looking for ways we can bring glory to Him. To be like the world—go the same places, take in the same entertainment, use profanity, or wear the same clothes—causes us to take away that “set apartness” that God desires for us. It also gives the world the right to call us hypocrites, as we say we’re holy, but act like them.

No outside force will ever destroy God’s church. However, we can destroy our own effectiveness if we do not keep our focus on our calling and on our future! God has prepared a place for us, one that is so great that our finite minds cannot even imagine the glory of it. Let’s keep that thought central as we faithfully endure each day.

Key Verse: Matthew 16:18: And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock [confession] I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. (NKJV)

Our Responsibility as Christ Followers
June 17, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

What are some responsibilities you have? Tell when or how you learned they would be something that would be in your life long-term.

We tend to look to the Bible, the church, Life Groups or Home Bible Studies as our greatest means for learning how to conduct ourselves as Christ-followers. Have you ever given much thought to the early Christians, who had nothing but word-of-mouth or home gatherings to learn and encourage each other? We are so blessed to have the Scriptures and can see exactly what God expects from us as believers.

Focal Passage: Galatians 6:1-10

Discuss:

We are responsible to and for one another

• Read verse Gal. 6:1a. We all know that getting married or having a child brings responsibilities we have not previously had. Why would God want us to help care for the believers He brings into our lives after we are saved?
• Read Heb. 2:11 and 1 Pet. 2:17 and 5:9. Does God consider believers to be a family? What are some of the responsibilities He expects from us for our new “family”?
• What are some ways in which we can tear down a fellow believer who has fallen into sin? Are these things pleasing to God? How can we gently restore those who are in sin and out of fellowship? (Where would prayer rank as one of the ways?)

We are responsible to God

• Read verse 1b. Why did Paul feel it important to warn believers to be careful lest the same temptation that overtakes a brother or sister in Christ also overtake us? Why did Jesus warn us often about falling into temptation?
• Read Heb. 12:1. We all have an area (or areas) where we are weak, and Satan has that weakness targeted. Why does he want to see us fall?
• How can we avoid the traps he sets in those areas where we are most vulnerable?

We are responsible to care

• Read verse 2. Does anyone recall the meaning for the word “burden”?
• What keeps us from being willing to let others know we have a burden too heavy to carry by ourselves? What should we do?
• Read verse 3. What is the connection of thought between restoring a fellow Christian who is in sin (vs. 2), and not caring (verse 3)?
• Read verse 4. Paul now admonishes us to keep ourselves under a microscope, so that no-one has a reason to accuse our behavior. There are many verses that can be used as a self-examination; why is it important that we do this often?

We are responsible to do what’s right

• Read verse 5. What is the difference in the burden of verse 2, and the “burden” used in verse 5?
• Read verses 7-8 and Jas. 3:18. We must accept responsibility for our actions. Who is watching us because we call ourselves Christ-followers?

We are responsible to NOT QUIT

• Read verses 9-10 and Hebrews 10:36. Why is perseverance so important?

Close:

Many years ago, a young lady from a broken home dated a young man whose family was large and close. She was captivated by the love and general caring she saw within the family unit. She married him and became a part of that close-knit family. That’s how the church body should be. When a person accepts the free gift of God’s grace, they immediately become a part of the large family of God—adopted children of God, and brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, as we read in the Scripture passage today. That brings responsibility, just as being a part of any family does. You sorrow when someone sorrows, laugh when they are filled with joy, hold them accountable and in general see that they are always on the path to a closer walk with Christ.

Above all, we all need to carry each other’s burdens, and at the same time hold ourselves accountable for seeing that we walk in close fellowship with Jesus Christ. Today’s world will try to get us off the right path as often as possible, but the tight closeness of family will insure that we maintain a healthy, vibrant Christ-like spirit.

Key Verse: Galatians 6:9: And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Dr. Jerry Falwell, “Don’t quit! Have a 4^th Quarter Ministry!”

Keys to Living Right
June 03, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Reading the Instruction Sheets that come with a new DIY piece of furniture is a prudent step. Often, however, we feel we are sensible enough to navigate the task of assembly without the need for the instructions. Can you think of an example and tell what occurred?

The past two weeks we have looked at the work of the Holy Spirit in witnessing and in speaking. Today we will look at Psalm 119, as we are presented with the “keys” to a life of joy.

Focal Passage: Psalm 119:9-16

Discuss:

Obey His Word

• How would you describe the Bible to someone who is unfamiliar with it?
• Read verse Psalm 119:9. What does the word “psalms” mean? In the section of Scripture called “Psalms,” who did they magnify?
• If you answered question one by saying the Bible is God’s instruction manual for believers, so that their lives can be empowered by and glorify Him, you would have been correct. Read Romans 10:17 and Heb. 11:6. How does one get the faith to believe that God exists?

Seek Him

• Read verse 10. If you were an unbeliever, not in church, how would you begin to search for God?
• What is the promise God has given in Deut. 4:29? Does anyone remember how the Greek was translated in describing how the Psalmist had searched for God? Why would we actively seek Him with our entire being?

Memorize Scripture

• Read verse 11. When are we tempted to sin? Read Rom. 6:11-14. Why should we NOT sin? What can keep us from obeying the lusts of the flesh?
• Read Heb. 4:12. If God’s Word is living (and God says it is!) and we have it in our heart, will it be present with us when we want to run from sin? How?
• Read Deut. 6:6-8. Can anyone relate their experience with teaching their young children to memorize Scripture?

Worship Him

• Read verses 12, 13. What are some ways in which we worship God? Are there other things in your life that you worship? If so, what are they?
• Read 1 Cor. 10:31. Why should we give God worship?

 Find Joy in Following

• Read verses 14-16. What are some of the joys you experience from following Christ as your Savior?  Are you following Him? If you are not, He’s not that “big of a deal” for you, is He?
• Read 1 Pet. 1:6-9. Is this the testimony of your life?

Key thoughts: Just as a parent sets boundaries for his child, every boundary that God has set around us is there to give us the best life possible. Does this truth bring you amazing happiness? Find joy in following Jesus Christ, as it leads to the happiest life that is possible.

Close

Peter—that brash, often outspoken disciple—was a different man after seeing Jesus in His resurrected body. He became a bold testifier of the faith, and his letters were filled with nuggets of gold. In chapter 3 of his first letter, he writes that if we want to love life and see good days, we should keep our tongues from evil, and our lips from speaking deceit. Last week we learned that controlling the tongue is one of the hardest virtues to acquire, but we are to strive for it. He goes on to say that we should turn away from evil and do good; to seek peace and pursue it (in fact, run after it). In his second letter, he says that God’s divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness, and His word is filled with “exceedingly great and precious promises”

Reading these short passages from the small books of 1 and 2 Peter, we can see that Peter summarizes the sermon for today: we are to obey the Word, to seek God’s way within the Scripture, memorize it, worship Him for Who He is, and find joy in following His way, so that we have life and godliness. Do these guidelines illustrate your lifestyle? As said in question 11, if He’s not first and foremost in your life, then He’s not that big of a deal to you. Another statement heard today from a believer was “if my iPad dings to say I haven’t clicked on my Scripture app in three days, I know I need to read some!” Would your family be okay if you only spoke to them every few days? Probably not. Timothy reminds us that we are to flee sin, and pursue (run after) righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and gentleness (1 Tim. 6:10-12.) Let’s make new commitments to pick up these “keys to living” and live a life of righteousness.

The Power of His Presence
May 20, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

We often are hesitant to speak out concerning a matter we feel may leave us open to stress, yet when someone else—smarter, stronger or more powerful—is behind us, we immediately have much more boldness. Can you think of an example?

Today we are focusing on the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. We open with the apostles gathered in a room in a house, praying, beseeching God to use them. The apostles, who had been ready to return to former trades after the crucifixion, were now gathered together, waiting for the promise from the resurrected Jesus that they should remain in Jerusalem until they had received the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Focal Passage: Acts 2:1-21.

Discussion:

Pentecost

• Although to us, Pentecost has become synonymous with this occurrence in Acts 2, was it actually a term for this event, or a word with a simple meaning? How long had it been since Jesus had been resurrected?
• Can someone tell, in their own words, what happened as the disciples were gathered in that room?
• In the Old Testament, what were some references to fire, and what did they generally represent? What about the effect of wind?
• Tongues: the apostles were miraculously able to speak in other languages, so that everyone clearly could hear the gospel in their native language. Why would God do such a miracle?

The supernatural power of the Holy Spirit in our lives

• It was promised
  • Read Acts 1:8. Jesus, who cannot lie, told the disciples to wait for this anointing. What did He say would be the result of the Holy Spirit coming upon them?
  • Read Romans 5:5 and 1 Cor. 3:16. Is the Holy Spirit promised to us as well?

• It was obvious
  • Read Acts 2:6-8, 12. Why do we tend to put a limit on the power of God?
  • The apostles had seen three years of miracles. How do you think they reacted when they realized they could communicate with foreigners?

• It was significant
  • How likely is it that these 3,000 who were saved that day would ever forget the occasion? Why?
  • What are some significant things you’ve experienced, never forgotten, and how did they impact your life?

•  It was life changing
  • Read verse 41. What did these saved persons do next?
  • What has been the most life-changing part of the gospel for you individually?

ASK YOURSELF: Why is today’s believer not willing to “seek and to save those who are lost”?

Close:

This passage is the true beginning of the church. Although these individuals in Acts were miraculously anointed with the Holy Spirit, able to begin a ministry of bringing lost souls into the kingdom of God, He was not limited to that time, and that place. In the following years the disciples saw the Gentiles of all nations become empowered with the Holy Spirit as well.

As we saw in the references in Romans and Corinthians, we, also, have been given the same Holy Spirit, with the same resurrection power, and the same ability to be used significantly in bringing others to Christ. What is holding us back? In Isaiah 6:8 the Lord asked, “Who will go for us?” and Isaiah responded, “Here am I! Send me!” Have you said that to Jesus? He is looking for a heart that is sold out to Him, willing to put Him first before everything else in one’s life. He’s looking for a heart that is not held down by being close to family, to a beautiful home, comfort, a steady paycheck, safety, or so much more. He is waiting for us to say to Him, “Here am I, Lord—send me.” Will we be that one? We have the Holy Spirit’s power. Are we using it?

Key Verse: Acts 2:21: “And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.” (NKJV)

HOPE IN THE HURTING
May 06, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

OPEN:

If you are someone who can honestly say that you have a great life with few problems, you are a blessed person! Most of us are often overwhelmed and sometimes feel we can’t take the next step. Can someone share?

Today we are looking at Psalm 34, a Psalm of David, written when he was running from King Saul by way of the wilderness. In it, we get the instruction needed to make it through any trial Satan could throw at us. It is a mini-sermon, filled with wisdom, and pointing us to the Source of Strength we can use throughout our days.

Key Verse: Psalm 34:1: “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.”

Focal Passage: Psalm 34:1-22

DISCUSS:

When you hurt–worship! (Vv. 1-3)

1. Read Psalm 34:1-3. Why is it so important to take our attention off ourselves and our immediate problems and focus on God?
   2. What are some ways in which you can turn this into a worship experience?
2. How often did David say he would praise the Lord? What did he boast in? Who else should speak God’s praise? (Is that us?) Whom should we tell of God’s greatness? What is special about praising Him with other believers?

When you hurt–pray! (Vv. 4-7)

1. Read verses 4-7. Why is it so important to pray? Whose power are you seeking when you pray? Read Philippians 4:6. What does Paul (through the Holy Spirit) tell us about prayer?
2. David knew that when he talked to God, God would listen and answer. What else does God do for the one who prays? How can we be free from all our fears? What will the results look like, for the one who looks to God for help? (vs. 5).
3. It is okay to pray when we are desperate. David was running for his life when he penned this Psalm, and what does he assure us the result will be? What power had he tapped in to with his prayer? Is this meant for us as well?

When you hurt–run! (Vv. 8-10)

1. Read verses 8-10. When you were a child, where did you run when you hurt? Why is this a good analogy for us, always running to God, but especially when we are hurting?
2. Often, we take a taste of a food to see if we like it; David begs us to give God the opportunity to show us He is good. What does God promise if we are His people who fear Him?

When you hurt–listen! (Vv. 11-14)

1. Read verses 11-14. David, knowing he was writing to those who could learn (his people and by extension, believers through the ages), desires to teach them the most important thing he knew. What was it? Why is “listening” so important, not only while we pray, but anytime God may speak to our hearts?
2. We all wish to be joyful and live a good life. How is this possible? What else should we strive for? Read 1 Pet. 3:10-11. Does Peter echo the same thing?

When you hurt–trust! (Vv. 15-18)

1. Read verses 15-18 and 1 Pet. 3:12. What is God doing for His children? Do you have someone you watch over with passionate vigilance? How can you trust God to watch over you or those you love with the same fervor you exhibit?
2. Read 2 Chronicles 16:9a. What did this Old Testament author know of God’s watch-care?
3. What happens to those who do evil and never turn to the Lord?

When you hurt–don’t quit! (Vv. 19-22).

1. Read verses 19-22. David emphasizes again the benefits of trusting the Lord. What are they (name them one by one!)?
2. Do these verses mean that we shall avoid all calamity? Read in KJV or NKJV if possible. Verse 20 was thought to be fulfilled by Christ on the Cross.

TAKE AWAY:
1) Spend at least 10 minutes each day thanking Him for His care for you
2) Spend time asking God for clarity and wisdom to navigate life each day
3) Read His word every day (1 Proverb and 3 Psalms each day will finish both books each month)
4) Don’t quit when the trials come
5) The greatest of all hope is salvation; when you hurt, God will deliver you

CLOSE:

Following the guidelines in these 22 verses will change your living! Can you imagine your life next year at this time if you put these principles into practice? When David writes to “taste and see that the Lord is good,” he was thinking of the true satisfaction you would have if you truly placed your faith and trust in God. With that thought being uppermost each morning, carried throughout the day, and meditated on at night, you would always be dwelling on God and His goodness. Does that seem impossible? No—God does not give us impossible tasks; He gives us tasks that He knows we can fulfill. Worship Him. Pray to Him, not in stilted, “King James” prayers, but talk to Him as you would to someone you know loves you with their whole heart.

We sing “He’s a good, good Father,” and the truth of that one phrase should be enough to give you encouragement through any trial you encounter. Finances going badly and not enough money? Marital problems? Turn them over to Him and then show the Christ-like behavior that He desires. Do you think there’s nothing left of your marriage, or nothing that can be done about your debt or addiction? That nothing can be done that will help you–even by God? Remember His creation? He had nothing to work with there, either. Yet the evidence of His eternal Power and Godhead is all around you. Don’t run away, don’t pretend your hurt doesn’t exist, give it all to Him and then listen to see if He wants you to do something. We can’t do all the talking and no listening–that’s not a relationship, but disconnection. You need to listen to the still, small voice well. Trust Him.

Above all, don’t quit. Some of us have a harder time standing our ground than others. Stand firm, remembering that God is not your enemy–Satan is. And he’d like nothing better than for you to leave God and go back to old ways. Keep on keeping on. “The Lord will redeem those who serve Him.” Salvation and joy are the result of unity with Christ. Hold tightly to that hope that will not fail you, especially when you’re hurting.

A BRAND NEW DAY: A BRAND NEW DAY OF SERVING
April 22, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Some people love to help others in the capacity they enjoy most—for instance, cooking a meal for a new neighbor, —while others serve grudgingly. A radio pastor told of arriving in a country only to be ushered to the kitchen with a “Sleep here on the floor; I didn’t know you were coming!” presented in a sour tone. The result was awkward and inhospitable. Can anyone share an example that will illustrate ways to serve?

We are in the series, “A Brand New Day,” looking at the new life a believer has in Jesus Christ. We have learned that we are new creations in Him, with a new purpose in life. We have looked at our new walk, our growth, and the new relationships we have. Now we want to look at the ways in which we can serve others, knowing that is part of our new life and our “calling” from God.

Focal Passage: Ephesians 4:1-7

Discuss:

You have been CALLED

1. Read Eph. 4:1. As believers, it is as though God has “called” us by name. Why would He do that? (John 10:27, 1 John 4:19).
2. When will our calling end? Will we ever be worthy of this calling?
3. Who were some Biblical saints called for a special job or vocation?

You are called to SERVE

4. Read verses 2-4. The calling is to be a blessing to other people through our service. What are ways Paul mentions in these verses?
5. How impactful is verse 3, i.e., making allowances for people’s differences from our own? Why do we feel our way is usually the right way?
6. Verse 4 says our calling has a glorious hope. What is it?

You have been EQUIPPED

7. Read verse 7 and Romans 12:4-13. How and why should this information fill us with comfort?
8. What is a “gift” (in Scripture) and how can we liken the passage in Romans to our natural body? How is that the same as being a member of the church?
9. Who are a few examples from the Bible of someone God called to a certain work, after having given him/her a background for what would be needed?

You have been BLESSED

10. Read Eph. 4:16. What is the result of our service? Is this the life God desires for each of us, and why?

Key Verse: Ephesians 4:1: “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.”

Close:

This past week in central Virginia, Christians were able to put their faith into action as churches and Disaster Relief teams organized efforts to provide help, resources and food to many who lost homes or household goods in tornadoes. The number of those seen working in communities was staggering as they aided overwhelmed homeowners in restoring their lives as much as possible. It was a testimony of Christ-followers being called to serve their neighbors, loving them, caring, encouraging and repairing. Meanwhile, citizens in the upper Mid-west of the US saw the same love expressed by churches and Christ-followers as they fought their way out of a record-breaking blizzard. Service in action was exemplified everywhere.

Just as we expect fruit trees to flourish, bloom, and produce luscious fruit in its season, so also believers in Jesus Christ, who are rooted in Him, will produce fruit that is both Godly and “worthy of the calling with which you were called.” The service that we give to benefit others must come from a pure heart of love, willing and passionate to do the Father’s business. Do you realize that someday we will all stand before God and give an account of ourselves? Does that cause you to desire a more holy life? What will you answer Him when He asks if you loved your neighbors?

The church has a multitude of ways in which you can serve with whatever gift God has given you. Get connected with a Life Group that is comfortable and fitting for you, and jump in. There will never be a better time to begin to serve than this brand new day of TODAY!

A BRAND NEW DAY: OF LIVING
April 8, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

If you are a parent, grandparent, or even a close, loving aunt or uncle, you know the entire dynamics of a home changes when a new baby arrives! What are some of the obvious—and less obvious–changes?

On Easter Sunday, the power of God was present in a stirring message of salvation, as many accepted the free gift of grace and faith available through believing on Jesus Christ, and experienced the beginning of a new life. This week we look at the changes that gift of salvation will bring about as you grow in faith, and assess some of the areas that will be most affected.  Did your life change in the past week? Let’s look at the picture of what the gospel should bring about.

Focal Passage: 1 John 1:1-10

Discuss:

A Brand New Day of Salvation

1. Read John 5:24. Does this verse describe what has happened to you recently? Recognizing your need to be saved from your debt of sins (Rom. 6:23) is the first step in coming to salvation. Read Rom.10:13. Did you follow the recognition up by asking Jesus to save you and repenting of your sins?
2. Read Rom. 3:23. How many—or what kinds—of sin will separate you from the love of Christ? Read Rom. 10:10. What, besides repentance, is necessary for salvation?

A Brand New Day of Action

3. Read John 3:13-14. Jesus was ready, at thirty years of age, to begin His ministry. What was the first act of obedience that He performed? How does this give us a precedent as to the importance God places on baptism?
4. What does baptism represent? Have you been baptized, even after salvation of some lengthy time? What has held you back from obeying this ordinance?

A Brand New Day of Living

5. Read 1 Pet. 2:1-2. In the opening, a new baby requires the family or guardian to take responsibility for certain requirements the child needs. If you liken that to your salvation experience, what are some things your new life will require of you?
6. Read 1 John 1:5-6, and 2 Cor. 5:17. Explain why you, as a newborn babe in Christ (or even as a seasoned believer) cannot go places, look at things, or have companions that would be contrary to your faith in Jesus Christ.

A Brand New Day of Walking

7. Read verses 7-8. If you’re a new believer you might be asking yourself, “Where do I go? What do I do?” Read Matt. 6:33 and James 1:5. You now have a Creator who will “liberally” give you wisdom when you ask. How do you seek God and His righteousness before other things (Matt. 6:33)?
8. Read 1 Thess. 5:16-18. When you read verses such as this, underline it so that you can find it at a moment’s notice. What does it mean to your new way of life?

A Brand New Day of Forgiveness

9. Read verse 9. Why is it necessary to keep a “short account” of your sins? How is that analogous to letting debt on a credit card mount up?
10. What are some ways you can keep your walk pure?

Memory Verse: 1 John 1:6: If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

Close

So often non-believers will scoff at Christianity, saying it is a list of rules—of “do’s and don’ts.” You may have felt that way yourself before Jesus called you to Himself. What they do not realize, however, is that He has taken the “old” you, the one who walked in darkness and had fellowship with darkness, and created a new being! You are no longer the same person, with the same desires for sin and its temporary pleasure. The old has passed away, and the new has come—and continues to keep coming.

If you remember, Pastor Jonathan used the organ as an example of a new creation. It had been a tree that was cut down, and fashioned by experts into a beautiful instrument that is used to worship God. You, too, have been changed from the person you were  into someone completely new, whose being can bring glory to God for the rest of your life. What a praise!

If you feel you need additional help—and most of us do!—connect with one of the Life Groups at church, and find one that meets your needs. There are studies for everyone, and they will help you grow as you seek this new life of joy and peace with God.

Crossroads: Walking With Jesus
March 25, 2018
Dr. Jerry Vines, Guest Speaker

Open:

It is a terrible feeling to turn your head for a moment, only to look back and your child—parent, friend—is nowhere to be seen. Can you think of an example?

We are interrupting our series, “Crossroads: Where His Road Meets Our Road,” as we welcome Dr. Jerry Vines to the pulpit. At the same time, as he brings to our attention the life of Enoch from Genesis 5:21-24, we see the amazing story of the life of a man whose walk intersected with God and became incredible. He served and “walked with God” for three hundred years, and was one of only two people in the Bible who did not die, but passed from this life directly to heaven.

Focal Passages: Genesis 5:21-24; Hebrews 11:5-6; Gal. 5:22-23.

Discuss:

Enoch Walked In

1. Read Genesis 5:21. How long had Enoch lived his life before he met God? There must be a moment at which you choose whether to walk with God or reject Him.
2. What are some problems Enoch dealt with in his world that are similar to the same problems you face daily? Read Gen. 6:5-6. Because the ancient world was so evil, what did God do?
3. When you—just as Enoch did—cry out to God that you want to know Him, what immediately happens? (Hint: just-as-if-I-had-never-sinned).

Enoch Walked On

4. Read Gen. 5:22, and Amos 3:3. When two walk together in fellowship, what are some of the bonds that hold them together?
5. What are some evidences of growth as you continue your walk daily? Read Gal. 5:22-26. How does this growth come about?
6. The growth—sometimes sweet and sometimes painful—is a continuation of the justification gotten at the moment of salvation (question 3), and is called _________. (Hint: we are being “set apart.”)

Enoch Walks Out

7. Enoch proved himself worthy in his walk for three-hundred years. Read Col. 1:9-11, and 1 Thess. 2:12. How are these verses—hundreds of years later—exactly what God meant when the Holy Spirit said Enoch “walked with God”?
8. What happened to Enoch after three-hundred years? Read Heb. 11:5-6. He was not found! How many people do you imagine went looking for him? As in the opening thought, would his family have searched long and hard for him?
9. When we pass from this life to the eternal life that is promised to believers, what is that step called (after sanctification, question 6)?

 Close

When we think of the highest praise given some men in Scripture, a few immediately come to mind: Enoch, of whom it was said (Heb. 11:5-6) that “he pleased God;” Nathanael, whom Christ said was “…an Israelite…in whom is no guile;” Abraham, who was a “friend of God; and Moses, with whom God spoke face to face as to a friend. These would indicate men who lived above the average in their godly walk.

Enoch was a man who was in a world very much like ours. For sixty-five years he was immersed in that culture—perhaps, like Lot, it could have been said of him that his righteous heart was “oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked.” However, when he cried out to God, God heard and saved him, allowing him to witness for Him for three hundred years. Jude, in verses 14-15, presents Enoch as a preacher and prophet, pointing the way to God. His walk was so filled with fellowship with his God that he was ushered into heaven, straight from the grim conditions of earth. What bliss!

Is that your walk? Do you start your day with devotions? Reading your Bible early in the morning means you are seeking to hear what God wants to say to you for your day, so you can meditate on it as you do chores. Lifting up holy hands in prayer, with your eyes open to heaven, indicates you are talking to Him. The conversation goes back and forth in fellowship. Out of the abundance of the comradeship comes the fruit listed in Gal. 5:22-23: gentleness, peace, etc. Is this your greatest desire? Seeking God, walking with Him, and persevering through trials and testing will mold you into a person whom God says is worthy of Him. Do you want to be that person?

Enoch’s world: Social disruption; emotional confusion; spiritual rebellion; and religious upheaval. Does this sound like the world in which you live?

Crossroads: Hope for Tomorrow and Forever
March 11, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

We’ve all had the experience of hearing information but not quite understanding the complete significance of it. Often, not wanting to seem presumptuous, we have not asked enough questions, and thereby caused ourselves difficulties down the road. Can you think of an example?

This is the second week of the series “Crossroads,” as we look at Biblical characters whose lives intersected with Jesus. Today we study Thomas, the disciple who has been known throughout history as “Doubting Thomas.” However, closer scrutiny will reveal Thomas to be an enthusiastic follower of Jesus, ready to die with Him, but always trying to be sure he completely understood the significance of what Jesus was saying. He asked bold questions, not out of doubt, but to confirm the information he was hearing. Would that all Christ-followers would be so sure they have their facts straight when it comes to doing God’s will!

Focal Passages: John 11:1-16; 14:1-6; 20:24-29; Mark 8:31-37.

Discuss:

Thomas was unsure of what tomorrow might hold

1. Read John 11:1-16. What reaction did most of the disciples have when Jesus told them he was going to go to Bethany? Who had a different reaction?
2. Why would Thomas have been willing to go with Him, and possibly even to die? How do you think you would have reacted?

Jesus gave the answer

3. Read John 14:1-6. What did Jesus tell His disciples in verses 5-6? Why do you think Thomas asked his question? If you were in Thomas’ place and was told you could go where Jesus was going, what questions would you ask to make sure you did not miss the way?
4. How did Jesus answer? Why is He called the great “I AM”?

Thomas’ tomorrow came quicker than expected

5. Read John 20:24-25. Thomas had followed Jesus for three years, had seen countless miracles, and watched Him be beaten and crucified. Now the other disciples are telling him they have seen Jesus, alive and well. What emotions were probably uppermost in Thomas’s mind and heart?
6. How can you best understand his emotions? No analogy comes even close, but can you think of a time when you could not believe what you were hearing or seeing?

 Thomas forgot what Jesus had said

7. How do you think he tried to reconcile Jesus’ words of going “to prepare a place for you” with the death he had seen Jesus die?
8. What do you think Thomas did during that next week, hearing over and over how the apostles had seen Jesus? How far away from those closest to Jesus would you have strayed, had it been you? Why?

Jesus again gave the answer

9. Read verse 26. Thomas made certain that he was close to the disciples during the week, and he was ultimately rewarded with the presence of Jesus. How did he probably feel, knowing he had not believed the disciples?
10. Read verses 27-29. Jesus assured Thomas that it was He, and Thomas believed. How are we mentioned in verse 29?

Jesus’ answer is always the same—HOPE

11. Read verses 25 and 26. What are the promises Jesus gives? Do you believe this? Do you share your story?

Close:

How like Thomas we are today! We know Jesus from the Scriptures, believe in Him, have our sins forgiven, and try to walk a holy life. Often we sense the presence, power and sometimes “feel” the voice of God. But the bad times come, the loved ones die, prayers seem not to get answered, the road gets very rocky, and we forget what Jesus tells us: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Thomas had seen it all, from the early days when Jesus called the twelve together, to the ascension as He disappeared in the clouds going back to heaven. But like us, he wanted evidence. He bluntly stated that he wouldn’t believe unless he could put his fingers in the hands and side of the pierced Savior. Often, we, like Thomas, demand signs before we’ll go further with Jesus. And yet He says, “Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet believed.”

How many times can you look back and see that through the tough times, He was holding you, carrying you, leading you? The trust must be there when the going gets hard, when the faith almost deserts us, and you have to cry out “Lord, increase my faith!” And what keeps us going? His answer, that He is the Great “I AM” _______ (fill in the blank), He is whatever you need, at the moment you need Him. Share your story of HOPE for the world.

KEY VERSE: John 11:25: So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

Difference Makers: To Serve is to Give
February 25, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

For some, sharing your resources to help others is easy; for others—it can be very hard. Can you reveal the ways your heart responds to needs, and how you handle it?

Today we finish the series “Difference Makers.” This has been a time to learn ways to love people, and make a difference in their lives. We found that God commands that we give of our time, our talents, and the treasures we hold dear, so that we meet the needs of others. Sharing what we have, helping fill a need, or giving where our heart leads is each a part of giving, and we want to learn how to do it cheerfully and in abundance.

Focal Passages: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9; 9:6-9.

Recap from last week, Galatians 5:

Serving is an antidote to selfishness: You can’t be selfish while serving Serving is a picture of God’s command: Meeting the needs of others is a must Serving keeps us together: Serving someone leaves no room for animosity

Before we begin the last half of last week’s sermon, we’ll look at Biblical references for giving from Genesis through Malachi. Please read them at home (to save time):

Genesis 14:17-20: Abraham gives Melchizedek one-tenth of all he has;
Leviticus 27:30: 400 years later: A tithe is one-tenth, and belongs to God;
Deut. 14:22-29: 40 years later, Moses reminds the people of the tithe;
Malachi 3:6-12: 1,000 years later: Robbing God of tithes brings consequences;
1 Corinthians 16:1-2: On the first day of the week, set aside your tithe to give.

Therefore, the New Testament picture of giving reinforces the Old Testament.

Discuss:

FIRST:

1. Read 2 Cor. 9:7-8. What is the first verb Paul uses in these verses for you to have a “Step 1” to follow for tithing?
2. Was he speaking of money, talents, time or all three here?
3. Go back to 1 Cor. 16: 2. Why should God want your gift set aside on the first day of the week? Does He mean the first DAY, or the first thing that should be taken out of the paycheck?

INTENTIONAL:

4. How do you decide how much you can give? What is your guide concerning your tithe?
5. How much faith do you have that if you make a commitment to begin tithing, God will provide for your needs?
6. Read Malachi 3:10. What does God promise, if you give your tithe? What does “floodgates” (NIV) mean?
7. If you are intentional about giving, what does Paul call that? How many other things in your life are you intentional concerning? Do you waver on those, and why not?

PROPORTIONAL:

8. If you gave back to the Lord in proportion to what He has given you, how would you decide the amount to give? List some of your priceless treasures.
9. How does God (through Paul) tell you to give? Does anyone know the Greek word for cheerful? (Hilarious). Do you give like this?
10. What would you be doing in service or serving, if you tithed a tenth of your hours to God, or a tenth of your talents? What are some talents used for the good of others?

 Close

There was a couple many years ago whose bills were taking every penny that came in as wages. The husband figured their outgo (needs, not wants), and looked at his income. He calculated that he owed God $250 per month if they had the courage to begin tithing and believed that God would honor His promise in Malachi 3:10. The next pay period was followed by a weekend, and on Sunday they put their check in the offering plate. When he went to work the next day, his boss called him into his office. He was given a $250.00 per month raise, not anticipated. God is faithful!

Hopefully you have been motivated to make a difference in the life of someone—or more—during 2018. You may be well on your way, or it may be that you desire to do so but have fears. Go back and re-listen to the sermons, taking notes. Seek out Life Groups who will guide you through ideas, opportunities, or steps. The staff always knows of needs, whether it is for salvation, taking food to new families, inviting those who move into your area to church, or “owning your neighborhood” by doing all those things. God will be with you every step of the way, and there are always others who will go with you until you are comfortable alone. Test Him and see if He will not open the floodgates and pour out blessings on you!

Key Verse: 2 Cor. 8:9: For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor that you, through His poverty, might become rich. (NKJV)

Difference Makers: What Does the Walk Look Like?
February 11, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Have you ever realized how many things you do foolishly because you are attempting something you are not experienced at? Sometimes raising children or taking care of a parent with dementia might fall into that category. Can you think of an example?

We have been in a series that will teach us how to be “Difference Makers” in our community if our hearts are open to doing God’s will. We have learned how to be certain we are a Christ-follower, how to recognize people who need Christ, and how to take the good news of the story of what He’s done for us to those we meet. Today we want to look at three steps we can take when we’re ready to share Christ, knowing that with each witness the task will become more familiar and less daunting.

Focal Passages: John 9:1-11, 26-33, 35-38; Matthew 28:19,20.

Discuss:

TELL: Tell them the Gospel story

1. Read John 9:1-11. For years, the man in this account had nothing to tell. After Jesus healed him, what story could he share?
2. Can someone refresh everyone’s mind with the recent sermon on the Gadarene demoniac? How did the people respond to that man’s healing? Read Mark 5:17-20. What do you think happened to that village after he returned and told his story?
3. Everyone who is saved has a new beginning. What are some things that hold you back from sharing what Christ has done for you?

GROW: Help them grow in their awareness of, and identity in, Christ

4. Read John 9: 26-33. Why were the Jews so focused on finding fault with Jesus? How did the healed man react?
5. What do you notice about his responses—was he able to answer all their questions? Did this stop him from telling what had happened? How can this encourage you when you begin to tell others how Christ saved you?
6. If someone wants to accept Christ, what steps would you take to help him/her grow in their faith? How would it help you if you searched for and wrote out verses or passages that encourage prayer or Bible memorization (Psa. 119:11)?

SEND: Help them map their mission

7. Read verses 35-38. What did the blind man do after Jesus healed him? Thinking back to the demoniac, why did Jesus tell him to stay in his own country? How is that like the Samaritan woman last week, whose entire village was changed because of her story? Testimonies draw people!
8. What would happen if you suggested you meet with the person you are trying to win to Christ one time a week to study together, or pray? How is it possible that your little two-some would grow to include more?
9. Read 2 Timothy 2:15. Why did Paul instruct Timothy to “study”? What are some other ways in which you can grow as a Christ-follower?

Close

In the opening dialogue, you thought about efforts you have made when you have no previous experience. The first time you tell the story of your salvation, you may feel you should have said something else, added more, or feel in general you made a mess of it. But have you ever likened what you say in marriage to your witnessing? In marriage, one partner will make a statement; later, it is a “you didn’t tell me that” scenario. The difference is, they don’t always hear what you mean when you speak! When you tell the story of accepting Christ, the Holy Spirit, who is in you, and perhaps working in the other person, can cause them to hear what they need to—that is an awesome thought. And as we see in the passage of the blind man, he didn’t know the answers to most of the questions the Jewish leaders were throwing at him, so he kept repeating, “All I know is, whereas I was blind, now I see!” Perhaps that’s all you can say: “All I know is, whereas I lived a life of sin and pain for others, now I want to live it to glorify Jesus Christ,” and it may be all they need to hear.

There doesn’t have to be carefully worded stories. God has saved you. The change may be instant, or it may be gradual, but people will see the difference. Babies are not born ready for walking and eating meat; they are born, carefully taken care of, taught how to do things that will become lifestyles, and one day leave the home and begin their own life and family. That is what you want the hearers of your story to do. Nothing will be better than to stand before Jesus and see a room full of people whose lives you impacted for God’s kingdom. But you have to start. We have to start!

Key Verses: John 9:25: He answered and said, “Whether He is a sinner or not I do not know. One thing I know: that though I was blind, now I see.” (NKJV)

A DIFFERENCE MAKER:

1. Can make a call, a visit, or write a letter;
2. Stop and notice what someone is saying or doing;

Engage someone in conversation and listen with interest.

Difference Makers: Where Do I Start?
January 28, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

For some of us, a list of steps necessary to achieve a certain end is extremely helpful, while others do great without one. Can you share an example?

We are in a series called “Difference Makers,” looking at how we should be living out our Christian life in the world. Because we sometimes feel we’re in a gray area as to what we should be doing, today’s sermon lays out for us three steps that will help us examine our hearts to know that we are prepared to witness, who we should have a burden for, and why it is our job to share with them the Good News.

Focal Passages: 2 Pet. 3:9-10; 1 Cor.15:1-4a; John 14:6; Rom.10:9-13; Matt. 22:37.

BEING A DIFFERENCE MAKER: Where do I start?

Know who you are

1. What have you learned in prior weeks that defines a “Difference Maker”? According to those passages above, what is your responsibility?
2. How can you be a Christian, and not be a Christ-follower? What does a Christ-follower do?
3. In 1 Cor. 15:1-4a, what did Paul do once he was saved by grace?

Know who they are

4. John 3:16 says Jesus’ atonement for sins is available to whom?
5. What are some normal characteristics of those who need Christ? How is it possible that their anger, profanity, or attitude might be covering up a deep desire to have someone love them?
6. Read Matt. 22:37. Why is it so hard to love those who are going to hell (your “neighbors”)?
7. What are some intentional things you can do to show love for these people?

Know what your job is

8. Go back again to 1 Cor. 13:4. What did Paul do after salvation? What was probably said of him? (Remember, his reputation would have gone out among all those following Jesus Christ at that time. How hard would that have been for him to face those same people?)
9. 28:19-20: What does Jesus tell you?

Close

If we are not careful, we can become insulated in our churches through Bible studies, evening groups, choosing friends, worship or Sunday School, and never reach our neighbors or the world. It takes intentional, daily discipline to be willing to be used to further the kingdom of God on earth. Usually work situations are not easy places to witness verbally, so we rely on our lifestyle to show our co-workers that we hold ourselves to another standard. But is this what Jesus desires of us? If we look at the early church, we find the disciples going out “street preaching,” sharing the good news of the death, burial and resurrection of a Messianic Savior to all who would listen. They didn’t just live their faith, they shared it. Have you examined your life to see if you love the lost with the same compassion Jesus did? Does your lost neighbor weigh on your heart? Until you get the courage to witness, you can at least lift him/her to the throne each day, asking God to open a door. If you are unsure of the status of their soul, you can usually pick up on it with just a few minutes conversation, or ask a non-threatening question like “Do you attend church?” Most people are not offended by that. Identify your job as a Christ-follower as someone who is a witness of what He has done for you, gives out the good news, and loves people into a relationship with Jesus. You’ll never be satisfied to live a life of mediocrity again!

Key Verses: 2 Peter 3:9: The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. (NKJV)

A DIFFERENCE MAKER:

Sees things and people the way Christ does;                                                                  Loves people, and uses things (not the reverse!);                                                              Has a heart for the hurting;                                                                                             Has a heart for the lost;                                                                                                     Is a Christ-follower;                                                                                                              Is one who has believed and received the Gospel story of Jesus [His death, burial,   resurrection], has followed Jesus in baptism, is obeying all that Jesus taught, and is helping others do the same.

Our Response to Christ’s Church
January 14, 2018
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

When you were young, did you find it easy to obey, usually doing what you were told, or were you constantly finding it difficult to submit to authority? Can you share?

Last week we looked at the institution of the church—the cohesive body of believers that Christ established as a method to spread the good news of salvation available through Him. We learned what He planned for the church and how it is to function. Now we ask ourselves, “How do we respond?” Let’s look at the responsibilities of believers as we come together in small or large groups, in order to change our world.

Focal Passage: Ephesians 2:19: “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God.”

Discuss:

Background

Last week we learned:

• The Church is God-ordained, instituted by Him to preach the gospel (Matt. 16:18).
• The Church is not a building or an organization, it’s YOU! Individuals are the church.
• Jesus is the Head of the Church, (Eph. 1:22, 23)
• Jesus gave a plan for the Church, (Acts 2:42-47)
• Jesus gave us the keys to the Church, (Matt. 28:18-20)

We can see that God ordained the church and we should have a much clearer idea of the importance of it. Now, what are our responsibilities?

We are required to carry out His plan

1. Read Matthew 28:18-20. Who did Christ give the job of spreading the gospel to? Does this apply to today’s churches? Why?
2. Did He suggest this commitment, or give it as a directive, expecting believers to be obedient? Going back to the Ice Breaker, do you find it difficult to serve in your church, or does it excite you? Share your heart.
3. Why do you think church members leave it to the pastor and staff? What three words are important in verse 19? 

We are required to serve within the church

4. Read Romans 12:4-5. What is the analogy in these verses that is compared to the church? How do you see yourself as a member of a church body, just as your fingers or toes are functioning members of your own body?
5. Read 1 Peter 4:10 and Romans 12:6-8. What is the charge here?

We are required to baptize believers

6. Read Matt. 28:19b. Why do we baptize? Why did Christ set us an example to follow, when He was baptized by John?
7. What does it symbolize? Is this a suggestion or commandment?

We are required to remember how Christ established the church

8. What is the second ordinance the church is told to perform, in remembrance of Christ’s death on the cross? Read 1 Cor. 11:23-26.
9. Both ordinances are holy. However, what are we told in verses 27-30?

We are required to pray that the world would believe

10. 12:12, Eph. 1:18, 6:18, and Phil. 4:6 are just a few of the hundreds of verses on prayer. Why is that communication so important to your spiritual life and what does it mean in the lives of others?

Close

It is incredible to think that God gave frail, sinful humans the task of seeking out the lost in this world, and presenting them with the gospel. One feels the listener could turn and say, “But you used to ____!” This gives you an even greater reason to tell the story of your changed life—not yet perfect, not complete, but always striving for the goal that God has set before you. One of the responsibilities you have as a Christian is to be part of a local body of believers who come together to worship, praise, and pray (Heb. 10:24, 25). Would you pray the more earnestly if you knew that it was only by your prayers that someone you love would be saved? Yes, without a doubt you would be constant in coming before God on their behalf! The obligations laid on you for serving your Lord are contained in the Scriptures in today’s sermon. Write those on 3×5 cards, memorize them, and recognize that your job is to love the Lord your God first and foremost, and love your neighbor as much as you love yourself. If you do these two things, you will find yourself serving and being effective in your church, your community, and your world.

Key Verse: Colossians 1:18 (NKJV): “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.”

Pressing On
December 31, 2017
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Open:

Finding a time or circumstance in which to make a fresh start is a great thing. The beginning of a new year definitely seems to be the optimal time when we hope for a change in our lives! What other times might hold new hope?

As we end 2017, we know we answered firmly that Christ is the only reason for the Christmas season. Now we can’t help but hope 2018 might be a year of new beginnings. Perhaps it will be the year we achieve a long dreamed-of goal, or reach a new level of faith. Let’s strive with the apostle Paul toward the goal of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection better than we ever have before.

Focal Passage: Philippians 3:1-14.

Discuss:

THE PAST SHOULD STAY THERE

Our beliefs about the past

1. Read verse 13. Why did Paul give this piece of advice he himself followed? What happens to any living organism if it remains stagnant? Read verses 2-3. Why does he warn against holding onto traditions learned as immature believers?
2. Read verses 6-7. All the good works in the world can’t save anyone. How did Paul find this out for himself? Read Eph. 2:8-9. What are some traditions the church is still holding onto today that should be put into the past?

What we should believe

1. Read verse 8. What is the only thing worthwhile that will help you, keep you, protect you, and save you? What were some of them Paul counted as nothing? (Is there anything you are relying on for salvation, other than the work of Jesus Christ on the cross? Answer in your heart.)
2. How can you commit to “knowing Him better” as one of your New Year’s goals—and then keeping a daily journal to see that you do?

THE GOAL IS CLEAR

1. Read verse 10. If you set your goal for 2018 to know Christ better, what could that look like? What would change as you come to know Him more intimately?
2. What is the fruit that begins to come as you know Him better? (Gal. 5:22-23.)
3. Read verse 12. Paul wanted the church to know he had not “arrived.” What does he say he has to do?

THE GOAL? PURSUIT OF CHRIST AND THE PROMISE OF HEAVEN

1. Read verses 13-14. What were the three things Paul disciplined himself to do?
2. What are some ways you can take control in these areas? Read Heb. 12:1. 

Close

If you’ve ever stood in the sand at a beach as the waves roll in, you know that remaining in one spot will soon pull sand away from your feet, only to cover them higher with each incoming wave. Standing still in the Christian life will destroy your progress, just as surely. Paul knew that he could not let his family, his reputation as a Pharisee, his zeal for God and eventually his torture of Christians, define who he was: he became a child of the King the day Jesus met him on the road to Damascus, and from that point on he had to forget those things which had seemed to matter, to become the person God intended him to be. When you reach(ed) the point at which you surrender(ed) your heart to Christ, from then on you must pursue a life of knowing Him, serving Him, and letting the change in your heart be reflected in your lifestyle. What better time to discipline yourself setting these worthy goals than the beginning of a new year? Keep a journal of your progress, your prayers, and His answers this year, so you can see your growth. In a way, life as a disciplined Christian will never become any more of a habit than a new lifestyle of healthy eating habits. One piece of pie, one bag of chips, and suddenly the control slips. Be honest with yourself: admit the slip, and begin again (Prov. 24:16). Strive for the prize that Jesus Christ has promised! Keep pressing on, and if you stumble, get up, knowing the heavenly reward will be waiting when He calls you.

Key Verses: Phil. 3:14: I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (NKJV)

The Point of Christmas Is: SACRIFICE
December 10, 2017
Matt Willmington and Dr. Harold Willmington

Open:

There is not a day that passes that we are not asked to make some type of sacrifice, whether it’s our time, money, a place in line or one where loss or cost is heavy. Can you think of an example to share?

We are in a series for December, asking “What’s the point of Christmas?” Today we will have Dr. Harold Willmington and his son, Matt Willmington, discuss how the Christmas story was one of a supreme gift, as God the Father sacrificed the life of His only Son, Jesus Christ, for sinners who are unworthy and uncaring. We will focus on Abraham and Isaac.

Focal Passage: Genesis 22:1-14.

Discuss:

The Testing

1. Read Gen. 22:1. What are some pertinent facts you know of the life of Abraham? Why was he special to God?
2. What does the Bible mean when it says God tested Abraham? Read Deut. 13:3b and Psalm 26:2. Why does God test you?
3. Some versions translate the word “tested” as “tempted.” Read Matt. 4:1 and 1 Cor. 10:13. What is God looking for as He tests you? Who tempts you to do evil, and why?

The Ultimate Sacrifice

4. Read verse 2. What was God asking Abraham to do?
5. Put yourself in Abraham’s place, and imagine giving the life of your child, to obey a direct order from God? What would be some of your thoughts?
6. Did God already know the outcome? Why would He ask Abraham to do this deed, as He knew what the result would be?
7. Read verse 4. How many days did Abraham travel, expecting to fulfil God’s command. What was this a foreshadowing of (two thousand years later)?

Incredible Faith

8. Read verses 5-10. As Isaac asked Abraham his amazingly perceptive question, what must Abraham have felt?
9. Between the time God told him to go make the sacrifice, until verse 10 when he stretched out his hand to slaughter his son, had Abraham hesitated or argued with God? Do you believe he was unhesitatingly going to go through with it?

God Provides

10. Read verses 11-14. What did God do to reward Abraham’s act of obedience?
11. When has God asked something from you, and you have obeyed without hesitating or question?

ASK YOURSELF: WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO PUT ON THE ALTAR?

 Close

This passage from the life of Abraham, recorded in the book of Genesis, evokes so many emotions from us as children of God. We may feel disbelief that God would ask such a difficult—seemingly impossible—act from one of His own. What would Sarah say when Abraham returned? What would the Gentiles in the area think? What precedent would it create for human sacrifice, among the Jewish nation? The closest we can get to understanding Abraham’s feelings is when our child enters the military during wartime. The thought of losing him to save a nation who detests what Christians stand for is almost impossible, yet we somehow do it.

Abraham was instant in his obedience, not faltering or hesitating when God gave the instruction. He put together the articles needed for the sacrifice, got his servants and donkeys, and headed for the place he knew God wanted him to go. What did he think about during those three days of travel? How did he feel when Isaac asked the penetrating question “Where is the sacrifice?”? Was his heart broken, or did he trust God was going to provide an alternative at the last moment? Have you wondered why God tested him? The testing is not because God doesn’t know what the outcome will be (for He always does), but often our final response will open our eyes as to how much we trust God when He asks something difficult of us. Has He asked something of you, and you failed? Did you realize you lacked the will to fully obey? Or did you pass, like Abraham, with flying colors? What do you have in your life right now that needs to be placed on the altar, so that you can be fully and whole-heartedly obedient? Be “Abraham’s seed” (Gal. 3:29) and be prompt to do His bidding!

Key Verse: Genesis 22:14: And Abraham called the name of the place, The-Lord-Will-Provide; as it is said to this day, “In the Mount of the Lord, it shall be provided.” (NKJV)