A TALE OF TWO KINGS

September 18, 2022

Troy Temple

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

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

Focal Passage: 1 Samuel 16:13-23.

God’s Way to Prepare a King

Allow God to map the way

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

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

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

Rely on God’s presence

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

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

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

Serve in obscurity

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

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

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

Status is the enemy of service

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

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

Close:

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

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

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

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

HOW DO WE REMEMBER, REPENT, AND DO?

August 28, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

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

The power to convict, convert, and change

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

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

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

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

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

The power to teach

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

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

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

The power to protect

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

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

The power to propel

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

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

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

Close:

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

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

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

      THE LETTERS OF JOHN: WALK IN TRUTH

     August 14, 2022

 Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

Focal Passage: 3 John.

Walk in Truth

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

Help others do the same

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

Avoid hypocrisy and jealousy

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

Trust in the faithfulness of God

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

Close:

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

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

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

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

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: THE CONFIDENCE OF A BELIEVER

                 July 31, 2022

                Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

Focal Passage: 1 John 5:13-21.

Confidence in His promise

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

Confidence in His care for us

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

Confidence in our responsibility for others

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

Confidence in His protection

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

Confidence in Who He is

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

Close:

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

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

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: HOW DO I KNOW?

   July 17, 2022

   Pastor Matt Willmington

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

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

Focal Passage: 1 John 4:7-21

If you love the Father, you love the family

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

Love sends, serves, sacrifices

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

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

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

Live in God because He lives in you

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

Completed love gives confidence

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

Haters don’t love, lovers don’t lie

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

Close:

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

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

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

THE LETTERS OF JOHN: LOVE MATTERS

July 3, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

Focal Passage: 1 John 3:11-24

Love is not a choice

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

Jealousy is the enemy to love

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

Love needs to be connected to action

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

Love can only come through Christ

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

Close:

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

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

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

THE LETTERS OF JOHN: WALKING IN THE LIGHT

June 19, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

A Universal Message

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

Walk from the world, walk toward the light

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

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

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

Now is the Time

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

Stand strong

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

Close

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

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

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

        THE LETTERS OF JOHN: TAKE A WALK IN THE LIGHT

     June 05, 2022

        Pastor Jonathan Falwell

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

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

Focal Passage: 1 John vv 1-10.

Jesus is still the Way, Truth and Life

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

We are one family because of Jesus

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

Hypocrisy destroys the family

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

Obedience builds the family

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

So let’s be honest

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

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

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

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

Family Matters: Diversions, Distractions, & Deceit

May 22, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What is one of the hardest situations you find yourself in when asked something and you feel a lie come to mind (like, “Isn’t my baby beautiful?”) Can anyone confess? What do you do?

Our series, Family Matters, is affecting lives weekly as we are given messages of truth on walking the narrow path through this evil world, being a positive impact on our family and our children, and having the ripple effect on our community and our world. Today’s’ sermon, taken from Proverbs 4, is directed at every individual who can hear it. At times we can get hung up on Solomon’s older years as he let his wives turn his heart from his God, but we must keep in mind that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible Word of God, and ultimately this is God speaking to each one of us.

Focal Passage: Proverbs 4:20-27

Know that God has a path for us all

• Read Prov. 4:20-22. Why would you, as a parent, tell your child to “pay attention,” then emphasize “listen closely”(CSB)? What would you be saying? Do you think that’s why it was repeated? Read James 1:22-25. Why is it so important to not only hear God’s word, but obey it? What is the promise for obeying?
• What did He mean to “not lose sight” of His words? How can you keep His words in front of you? Read Psa. 119:11. If you memorize, where are you storing up the Word? How is committing God’s Word to memory an asset for the believer?
• If your “eyes” are on God’s Word, how does the world try to divert it? Read Psa. 101:3. In this age of technology, what are some of the unholy things we see? How will God hold us accountable? Read Psa. 26:3. What are “holy things” we can keep our focus on? How do we keep unholy things from crossing our minds?

It starts in the heart

• Read Prov. 4:23 and Rom. 10:9. If you have become a child of God, where did your faith begin? Read Matt. 6:21. What do you value most in life? During a normal week, aside from your forty hours of work, what do you spend the most of your time on? How can “good things” divert us from God’s Word?
• Read Col. 3:1-2. What are some of the “things above”? What would you say to someone who thinks following Jesus will mean they have to give up everything that is enjoyable? What was promised in verse 22 to the one who loves God’s Word?

Honesty is the best policy

• Read Prov. 4:24-26. What is the normal word we use for speaking dishonestly? Who is the father of lies? What are some of the lies he tells you about yourself? How can you combat those? How do you try to vanquish those thoughts?
• What does God mean to look neither right nor left? What is the warning we have in verse 26? What is the promise He gives? In Psa. 23:3, where does God lead us?
• Daily, we are tempted to sin. Do you ever give in, just to avoid conflicts or stress?

Don’t let the world get you off track

• Read Prov. 4:26-27. We can often see when a young person is “on the wrong path”. Is it always as easy to see when we ourselves are off track? How does it happen?
• Why is it easier to get distracted than to keep our focus on God? What is the area where Satan is most able to push you into quicksand? What can you do to win?

Close:

So often in Scripture we will find a passage that has a huge amount to say within just a few verses. These verses from the Book of Proverbs are a great example. In these, we find many of our senses displayed with an enormous amount of information for living our lives as believers. We also see that being victorious is possible when we are obedient to God’s word because we want more than anything else to please Him who gave Himself for us.

God, in this passage, tells us to use our ears to listen to Him. We are told not only to “pay attention,” but to “listen closely.” You might reason that if you are paying attention, then you consider yourself to be listening closely. Because He repeats it in the same verse, it is imperative we listen to what He says. We need to also couple it with like verses, as in James 1:22ff, where we are told that if we listen but do not obey what we hear we deceive ourselves (point 3) and our religion is worthless!

We are told to use our sight to keep His Words in front of us, and to keep our eyes looking straight ahead so we’re not distracted by the things of this world. In other words, avoid the “lust of the eyes,” which are things that will trip us up. Think of how many sights entice our eyes!

We are to speak with honesty and not be deceitful in what we say. There are no white lies. If we have Jesus, we have TRUTH, and will not want to lie.

When the Bible speaks of the heart, it is the organ that shows that eternal LIFE, in the Person of Jesus Christ, is present, because we have asked Him to take control of our lives. Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the LIFE.”(John 14:6). God says “above all” guard your heart, for out of it the issues of life are proceeding, revealing whether our heart is godly or condemned. Do we speak words of life, or words of death? James warns us in Jas. 3:2-12 to be careful that our words do not condemn us. “Out of the same mouth should not come both blessing and cursing!” Does it with you?

Lastly, His “Words” are mentioned many times in these few verses. They are the source of life, they will establish our way, and keep our feet from evil. They will keep us from sin. There can be no testimony without a test. Keep these Words of Life and you’ll have a testimony.

                                                                                                              Family Matters: Children

 Jonathan Falwell and Dr. John Maxwell

                                                                                                                                         May 08, 2022

Do you have a habit—either good or bad—that you have noticed has been passed on to one of your children—intentionally or inadvertently? Can you share?

As we continue our series on Family Matters, we welcome Dr. John Maxwell to share the podium with Pastor Falwell today. We will examine the subject of our precious children, and how we are teaching them the values we want them to learn. We must be aware of the impact our actions have on them, as Dr. Maxwell informed us that 89% of what children do is what they have seen. Therefore, we parents need to determine what they are learning from our actions. He suggests five goals that should be the main focus for any Christian parents.

Focal Passages: Ephesians 5:1-2 and 6:1-4

Faith

• Read Romans 3:23 and 6:23. Why is it so important we teach our children about God? What do we mean when we say God doesn’t have “grandchildren”? Why should one’s life be committed to Christ?
• Read Prov. 22:6. What is the best way to teach a child how to love God?
• If what you do is going to be copied by your children in their actions, what are some precepts we can live by that will turn their hearts toward God?

Responsibility

• What are some of the areas of life in which we wish our children to learn responsibility? How can you teach them to be forgiving, and to be humble? How can you teach them to finish what they start, and to have a good work ethic? Do these things “just happen” as they grow? Why or why not?
• List the areas in your own life that you have not yet conquered. What are your children learning? What would happen if you sat down with them and discussed this?

Relationships

• Read Eph. 6:1-4. This is the first relationship that your child will have after birth. Why is it so important? Fathers, why does God specifically point to you that you not anger your child?
• Read Matt. 22:37-39. Why is it so important that you learn to love others and put them before your own desires? How can you teach your children to do this?
• When you have messed up before your children, do you tell them you’re sorry, and ask their forgiveness? Why or why not? What is so important about transparency? 

Attitude

• Read Gal. 5:22-23. Why is attitude so very important? Think of your own life: are you pleased when something is done for or given to you, but the attitude is all wrong? Why does it bother you? Is God different?
• Read Col. 3:15 and Phil. 4:11. What is contagious about a great attitude? What does that teach our children?

Generosity

• Read Prov. 11:25, 2 Cor. 9:6, and 1 Tim. 6:18. What does the Bible teach about giving and generosity?
• What is the principle that is taught over and over in Scripture about giving? What are some ways we can foster a love for giving in our children or grandchildren?

Close:

If you did not hear today’s sermon, please go back and watch it. You will miss a huge blessing if you haven’t heard it, as it’s not possible to include a complete message in a Group study. The advice Dr. Maxwell gives for raising healthy Christian children is unparalleled and we hope you are able to watch it and internalize it.

If you have older children, you may feel you have blown it, and should give up. No! Start over! Dr. Maxwell stressed that there is no time like the present to sit down with your children, admit your faults, and ask them to help you live as you should. Huge credibility is lost when we don’t model a love for Christ and for others, so ask their forgiveness, and begin immediately.                                                                                                                                                                   

Here are some jewels from the message:                                                                                                                                       

 You don’t have to win every battle! There are no perfect parents. It is always important to be open with your children, so they can come to you about anything. Take responsibility for your actions, show humility, and be accountable. It’s impossible for us to have great dreams for our children if our life is a nightmare. Everything valuable is an uphill task—hopes, dreams, etc.—if you have downhill habits. You don’t accidentally go uphill, you must be intentional! The dream is free, but the journey isn’t. Model habits that help your kids see what a committed life looks like. Good intentions are a waste because they never begin. Understand it’s never too late to start. Engage children in serving in Christian activities—expose them to service for Christ. You develop great Christian children by being a great Christian parent! Transformation happens because of what we do, not what we say.  Concerning generosity, we are to be rivers, not reservoirs. AND, WE TEACH WHAT WE KNOW, BUT WE REPRODUCE WHAT WE ARE!

FAMILY MATTERS: GOD’S DESIGN FOR THE FAMILY

April 24, 2022

Scott Bullman

Life can be hard in these chaotic times. Can you share an example of a time you were so grateful that your family was close by?

We have entered a new series entitled “Family Matters.” God never changes—therefore His plan for the family in Genesis 2 is still His plan today. When He created Adam and Eve as a male and female, husband and wife, in the Garden of Eden, He was creating a family. God’s first recorded words to Adam and Eve were “be fruitful and multiply.” Later, when Noah and his family emerged from the Ark in Genesis 8, God’s recorded conversation with Noah at that time included the same words, “be fruitful and multiply.” His plan for mankind, then, was to be a family of one husband and one wife and produce children. In today’s world, Satan is using any means he can, including governments and leaders, to destroy the family. Even worse, he is pitting family members against each other so that he may destroy them from within. Let us commit to standing on God’s ways, His promises, and His strength to see that all of our family is with us on that day we stand before Him.

God’s Design for Marriage

• Read Genesis 2:20b-24. What was God’s original design for marriage? Read Mark 10:6-9. How did Jesus reinforce that God’s plan had not changed? What does God mean when He says that the husband and wife shall be “one flesh”?
• Read Colossians 3:1-3. What is the greatest threat to our family? What instructions does Paul give here? Read 2 Peter 1:8. How can you relate this verse to the passage in Colossians, applying the teaching to those husbands and wives who are trying to live godly lives? How does the path of our life affect our marriage? What are some fiery darts that Satan throws at marriages in this day?
• In the verses in Col. 3:1-3, Paul uses the conditional term “if.” If you did not have a life change once you’ve accepted Jesus as your Savior, what may that mean?

The Wife’s Role

• Read Col. 3:18. What is the Biblical definition of the word “submit” in verse 18? How has culture today redefined what God desired? In life, is there anyone exempt from being under some type of authority? Think it through carefully!
• From another viewpoint for the husband/wife, how and why do you wish your children to “submit” to your authority as the parent? When is it your intention to trample on their tender hearts? What is your motive? Could that be your husband’s motive as well even when you may think of it as a control issue?
• What are some examples of times when submitting to your husband is a relief to your mind, and when does it cause conflict?
• Wives, can you accept dropping a situation even if you are in the right? Don’t ever let being right usurp your desire to be kind.

The Husband’s Role

• Read Col. 3:19. Husbands, what are some ways you show love to your wife? What is the warning Paul gives? What are some ways in which you can become bitter at your wife? Read Eph. 5:25. How does Christ love the church? What is the common denominator between marriage and the church?
• Why did this model for loving the wife anger men in those days?
• What are some of the expectations that a newly married husband may have? Are these all practical?

The Children’s Role

• Read Psa. 127:3 and Prov. 17:6. How does God view children? What “children” does this verse refer to? Do you have children in your home who are older, but still being provided for by you? Do you view them as those who should obey, or as adults making their own rules? Which is correct according to this verse?
• Read Col. 3:20. If you are the parents of children at home, how are you teaching them to obey you in everything? How do you take as much responsibility for their minds as you do for their bodies? Why does this verse have a promise attached to it? What is that promise?
• Read Romans 1:28-30. What are the characteristics of pagans who were not saved? Why is disobedience to parents one of those listed? If you are letting them slide with their obedience, how will they react to teachers and later, employers? Will you have to answer to God for your child’s behavior?

The Parent’s Role

• Read Col. 3:21. What are some ways in which you can discourage your children? Were you ever made to feel unloved as a child? Are you still paying the price?
• Read Eph. 6:4. Why would a child get discouraged if they are always made to feel they are not meeting your expectations? Read Joshua 24:15. Can this be you?

Close

A healthy family is one in which there is so much more than nutritious food! To see that your child is fed a diet of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains is great—and probably extremely rare—but is not nearly enough. In this age of technology, we are concentrating on the internal processes of the body, but leaving the processes of the mind and heart in a position to take in the garbage that is going to sow seeds of rebellion, discord, social ineptitude, and isolation from God. Yes, there are good things available on the web, just as there are on television, but more than likely those are not the programs that will excite the passions of the mind.

Because we will be in this series over the next several weeks, we will enlarge on God’s design for our family. It is the only institution God-ordained, other than the church. It is the one that is meant to raise godly children, just as the church is meant to “be fruitful and multiply” by adding disciples.  Let us be committed to getting a firm grasp on God’s perfect plan for families during this series.

THE RESURRECTION EVIDENCE

   April 10, 2022

  Dr. Gary Habermas

Have you ever been called for “jury duty”? It’s a rather daunting feeling, knowing that you may be making a decision that will determine the freedom of someone. Can you share?

As we welcome Dr. Gary Habermas today, we prepare our hearts to listen to the truth that the Messiah had indeed come to the people of Israel, testifying that He and the Father are one. For those who believed in Him, His death was perplexing and seemingly the end of His ministry. The certainty of His death was recorded not only by those who followed Him but also by secular historians of the day. Three days later, the morning of the first day of the week dawned, and there was no question the tomb was empty. Over the next forty days, over five hundred people saw Jesus alive in the flesh, with the scars in His hands and feet. His disciples ultimately saw Him go up into the sky, then out of sight, as He returned to Heaven. His deity, His death, and His resurrection are the basis of the truth of the Christian faith.

Focal Passages: 1 Corinthians 15

The Deity of Jesus Christ

• Read Isaiah 53:1-3, Daniel 9:25-26, and Micah 5:1-2. What do these passages have in common? About how many years before Christ was born were these prophecies spoken? Read Isa. 7:14, Matt. 1:21, Luke 1:30-32, and John 1:14. What do these verses promise? Were the New Testament verses speaking of an event that would soon come to pass?
• Read Gen. 1:26, Psa. 2:7, John 1:1-3, 10:30, 17:11, 21, and 1 John 5:7. What is the message that each writer was making clear? Read Mark 3:21. What did Nazareth believe of Jesus? Why do you believe Jesus when He claimed equity with God?
• Read John 1:19-28. What was John’s testimony? Read John 1:32-34 and Matt. 17:5. What was the testimony of God the Father and the Holy Spirit?
• Luke 1:39-45. What was Elizabeth’s testimony? Only Mary and Joseph knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that she was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. What was their testimony?
• Only Christianity believes Jesus is God’s only Son, who came in the flesh, and the only way to the Father. Why is this the foundation of our faith?

The Death of Jesus Christ

• Read Isa. 50:6 and 52:14. How would you describe the beating that Christ endured to pay for our sins? What can you envision from His crown of thorns, and from the exhaustion and loss of blood that caused Him to be unable to carry the cross?
• Read Matt. 27:50. Remind yourself how the Bible came into existence (2 Tim. 3:16). Would God lie in this verse, but the rest of Scripture be true?
• There is no documentation ever known to be in existence that states any man ever lived through a Roman crucifixion. The Journal of the American Medical Association made a scientific study of the torture Christ endured on the cross and wrote: “Clearly the weight of the evidence indicates that Jesus was dead even before the wound to His side was inflicted.” Atheist Gerd Ludeman said, “Historically, it’s indisputable that Jesus was dead.” Many secular historians mentioned the death of Jesus. Do you think anyone would have gone to such lengths for a farce? Why or why not?
• Read Luke 24:46. Jesus Himself stated He had had to suffer and be dead. Would He lie?
• What conclusion can you come to other than that His death was the absence of life?

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

• Read Deut. 19:15 and 1 Tim. 5:19. What is the point of these passages to determine someone’s quilt? Read Matt. 28:5-6, 8, 16 and Luke 24:36-39. How many witnesses to His being alive after the resurrection did Jesus have?
• In his book, The Case for Christ, former Atheist Lee Strobel found nine ancient sources other than the Bible that record twelve separate occasions when people saw Jesus alive and well after the cross. He also appeared to a crowd of over 500. Why is it unthinkable that those who were martyred for their faith would die for a lie?

So, What Do We Do?

• Be Steadfast: We must recognize that we are living in a world that is changing by the minute. Our faith is going to be challenged, and we will be persecuted. Hang in there!
• Know your labor is not in vain: rewards will be given in Heaven. Read Matt. 10:42. Even a cup of cold water given in the name of Jesus will be rewarded.
• Death is conquered: God has promised that those who believe and commit their lives to Jesus Christ will close their eyes in death and open them in the presence of Jesus!

Close

Do you ever examine the faith you have in your relationship with Jesus Christ? You are staking your entire future on the Bible being true, on it being God’s words to us, and on its truth that Jesus Christ died for your sins. Many people think you are crazy, don’t they? Do you believe it enough to tell others, so that they don’t have to spend eternity in hell? Are there some that you don’t share your faith with because you really don’t care where they spend eternity? Those are hard questions, aren’t they?

We believe the Bible contains God’s letters to us, without error in the original scrolls, infallible, and every book included is inspired by Him—or “God-breathed.” It is everything we need to live in peace and righteousness. It is meant for our instruction, reproof, correction, and training.

To believe that Jesus is God is to believe what He has said about Himself. To believe that He died

on the cross is to believe that He said He had come to earth to die. And to believe that He rose to life again is to believe His “only sign, the sign of the prophet Jonah, who was in the belly of the fish for three days and three nights.” He is good, He does not lie, and He loves us. Putting our life into His hands is not taking a chance—it is accepting by faith that He will take care of us, just as He promised. And one day—maybe soon—”He will come back to receive us unto Himself, that where He is, there we may be also.”

So, be steadfast, always abounding in the work of the Lord, know your labor is not in vain, because He keeps a record of all you do and say as unto the Lord, and know death is conquered and you will win!

References:

Strobel, Lee. The Case for Christ: a Journalist’s Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1998.

THE DOCTRINE OF ESCHATOLOGY: “THE LAST THINGS”

March 27, 2022

Dr. Ed Hindson

Unrest is all around the globe. If you knew life as we know it today would not last but a few more years, what are some things you would like to do or accomplish in that time?

Today we look at a doctrine of the Christian faith that has become a common subject in magazines, books, and social media, and is a question everyone wants answered: are we living in the last days of the world? God revealed throughout the Bible the signs that will be evidenced as life as we know it winds down and changes forever. Many scholars and authors have predicted dates, but the truth is no one knows when Christ will return! Each week we have used the doctrinal statement of our church to show how our beliefs line up with the Biblical subject: “We affirm that the return of Christ for all believers is imminent…to be followed by…tribulation and then the coming of Christ to establish His earthly Kingdom.”

The Rapture

• Read John 14:1-3. Who is Jesus speaking to? Who had just left the Upper Room?
• 1 Thess. 4:13-17. Who will be impacted when Jesus comes from heaven into our atmosphere? Who will be raised to meet Him first? What kind of body will we have? Read Luke 24:36-43. Is it possible this is how our glorified body will be?
• Read 1 Thess. 5:1-4, 7-9. Why did Paul comfort the Thessalonians that believers are not appointed for God’s wrath? Does that apply to us?
• What is the promise that we can take away from this portion of God’s Word? 

The Bride to Father’s House

• People must know the significance of the ritual of the Jewish wedding in the days of Jesus Christ. Can anyone re-tell Dr. Hindson’s explanation of the wedding custom? What was the first action? Was the betrothal a binding, legal agreement between families?
• What did the groom do once the betrothal was set? What did he do when he returned to his father’s house? How is this ritual analogous to Jesus’ return?
• Read Matt. 25:6. Once the groom had prepared the home for himself and his bride, who told him to go get his bride? Read Mark 13:32. Is this why the virgins were watchful, but not knowledgeable, of the time the groom would come?
• When we read 1 Thess. 4:17, where does it say we will meet Christ? Where will we go at that time? What is the promise we can take away from this?

The Judgment Seat of Christ

• Read 2 Cor. 5:10. When do theologians believe the Bema Seat judgment will be?
• What will it be for? Why are there many reasons to think this will not include answering for our sins? What will we be repaid for? Is there a promise here?

The Marriage of the Lamb

• Read Rev. 19:7. What will the “bride” (the church) receive when we arrive in heaven? Who supplies the Fine Linen, “bright and clean”?
• Read verse 8. What does the fine linen represent? What are we promised here?

The Triumphal Return

• Read Rev. 19:11-13. After the marriage supper of the Lamb, it is time for Him to return to the earth. How will He come?
• Read verse 14. Who will be with Him? How will they be dressed?
• Read verses 15-16. Will the saints who are with the Lord help Him to fight? What promise do these verses contain?

The Millennial Reign

• Read Rev. 20:4-6. There is much we don’t know about the Millennial Reign of Christ, but what is factual is the length of time. How long will it be?
• Read Rev. 20:1-3. Where will Satan be during this period of one-thousand years?

Who will put him there? Are these promises we can believe?

The Eternal City

• Read Rev. 21:1-2. This is now the final event when the glorified saints begin a life that will last for eternity. Read 1 Cor 2:9. How does this comfort you?
• Read 1 Cor. 6:9-10. Who are the unrepentant sinners who will not be in heaven? Why will none of these people be there? Would they have had their chance to accept Jesus as Savior while they lived?
• What promise is made in these verses for believers?

The Invitation

• Read Rev. 22:17. What is God’s final plea to those who read His Word? Why?

Close

This sermon took into account many verses, passages, and theological doctrines, knowing that for every statement of faith we believe, there are equally learned men on every other side who might believe differently. It is not our intention to present every viewpoint, but only what God has given us as facts—those things that we can believe with certainty, and that we can have as a foundation for our faith. Our founding church fathers wrote our Doctrinal Statement after much prayer and fasting, always comparing Scripture with Scripture. We hope today’s sermon has been a help to you that has reinforced your beliefs, with you always going back to God’s Word to be certain what you believe is what God has said. The bottom line is, always be ready! It is not the how, when, or in what manner–in the end, all that will matter will be are you truly ready to meet Christ? If so, He will call you: “Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” (Matt. 25:34).

DOCTRINE OF ANGELS & DEMONS

March 13, 2022

Matt Willmington

There are many areas of life where beliefs or opinions can be taken to the extreme, and which can create complications. Does an example come to your mind?

For the past couple of months, we have been in a series where we are examining the doctrines of the Christian faith. Each week we have cited the corresponding section of the Statement of Faith of our church, which references the doctrine for that week. As we examine what the Bible teaches on angels and demons, we will reference only the Bible. God has given us a complete overview as we see what He says about these created beings.

Two Dangers to Avoid Concerning Angels

• Saying too much. What do we mean when we say we can put too much emphasis on the angelic world?
• Saying too little. While we should not give undue recognition to the angels who are ministering to saints, what is the caution we need to take in giving demons (fallen angels) too little thought?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS CONCERNING ANGELS

WHAT ARE ANGELS?

• The word in Hebrew means “mighty ones,” “valiant men” or even “champions.” Read Psalm 103:20-21. What did David say about them in these verses?
• Read Psa. 104:4 and Hebrews 1:14. What were angels created to do?

HOW DID THEY ORIGINATE?

• The Bible does not tell us when the angels were created. Read Job 38:1-7. What did God say they were doing when He created the earth? Read Psa. 148:1-6. What can be learned about angels from these verses?
• Read Rev. 12:3-9. When Satan waged war against God, how many of the angels fell with him? Read Luke 20:35-37. What are some additional characteristics of angels we see in this passage?

WHAT KINDS OF ANGELS ARE THERE?

• FALLEN: What are some of the terms used for those angels who chose to go with Satan? What do we commonly call them? Read Jude verse 6 and 2 Peter 2:4. What punishment is already being suffered by some of those fallen angels?
• GOOD: Reread Heb. 1:14. What is one of the primary jobs of these angelic beings? Read Rev. 7:11. What actions do you recall angels doing in Scripture?
• ARCH: Who are the two angels you think of immediately who are Arch Angels? What did they do? How would you classify the hierarchy of Arch Angels?
• CHERUBIM: Read Gen. 3:24 for the first reference to a Cherub Angel, possibly the second-highest order of angels. Read Ezek. 10:19-21 for their description.
• SERAPHIM: Thought to be the highest order of the angels. They are mentioned only a few times in the Bible, in Isaiah, with similar features of the Cherubim. Their role seems to be to praise God.
• LIVING CREATURES: Mentioned only in Revelation (4, 5, & 6), these are magnificent, powerful creatures similar to the Cherubim and Seraphim.
• RULING RANKS: Many of these ranks are listed by Paul in Eph. 6:12.
• GUARDIANS: These are the ministering spirits in Hebrews 1:14.

ARE THEY DEAD PEOPLE?

• NO! Forget your preconceived notions that dead people roam the earth. Read 2 Cor. 5:8. Upon death, the saved go to be with the Lord, the unsaved will be forever in hell. Read Psa. 9:17 and Luke 16:19-26 for a clearer understanding.

DO WE NEED TO SPEAK A SPECIAL LANGUAGE?

• NO! Read 1 Timothy 2:5. There is no one but Christ to mediate for mankind. We are not to attempt to establish a personal relationship with them.

DO THEY HAVE BODIES?

• Reread Psa. 104:4. Angels are spirits unless they must take on a physical body temporarily, as in Genesis 19:1-22, when their mission requires bodies.

DO THEY HAVE LIMITS?

• Although angels possess free will (else 1/3 could not have followed Satan), they have no “Omni” powers, or ability to read thoughts, etc.

CAN I BE POSSESSED OR OPPRESSED BY DEMONS?

• BELIEVERS, belonging to God and indwelt with the Holy Spirit, can be oppressed but not possessed. Read 1 Cor. 6:19-20. UNBELIEVERS, belonging to Satan and the kingdom of darkness, can be indwelt by demons. They still can choose to call out to God for salvation and receive freedom. Read Mark 5:1-20.

DO THEY CAUSE ILLNESS?

• PHYSICAL, yes. Scripture gives us many passages to affirm this: Luke 8:27-28, 9:39, 13:10-16; John 9:1-5
• MENTAL, they can be, but definitely not always: 1 Samuel 16:14-23.

CAN I CONTROL THEM?

• Use these passages: Colossians 2:18; Revelation 22:8-9 and Jude 1:9; Luke 9, 10.

Close

The topic of angels is popular both in Christian and non-Christian cultures. A problem can occur if there is an undue emphasis on their roles and their responsibility to guard or protect mankind. As with other categories of the supernatural, angels can be sinfully idolized or worshiped, when, because it is a created being, it is only the Creator who is worthy of worship.

The Bible speaks of children having a guardian angel (Matt. 18:10), as well as being ministering spirits to us who are God’s children (Heb. 1:14). We give God the glory for His protection, but do not try to form a relationship.

At the same time, Satan desires to sabotage us by assigning a demon, or a “familiar spirit,”  to try to take us down, as he knows our every action. They cannot read our thoughts but can whisper to our minds, trying to ruin our faith in God. Because he knows us intimately, he knows our weaknesses. Don’t underestimate Satan but don’t give him any unnecessary attention. He will be in hell one day. It is God and God alone who deserves the glory and the praise!

THE DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH

February 27, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Goals in life are not just made at New Year’s—we often plan to discipline ourselves to do something that will require persevering. Then something, whether a bitter word, an antagonistic friend or a million other excuses causes us to quit. Can someone share?

As we continue our series on the basic doctrines of the Christian faith, we see that the founding fathers of Thomas Road Baptist Church drafted a doctrinal statement of beliefs that covers all that is necessary to lay the foundation for the existence of a local church. Each week we have quoted a portion that applies to a different doctrine, as we do today concerning the local church body: “We affirm that the church is a local assembly of baptized believers, under the discipline of the Word of God and the Lordship of Christ, organized to carry out the commission to evangelize, to teach, and to administer the ordinances of believer’s baptism and the Lord’s table. Its officers are pastors and deacons, and it is self-governing. It functions through the ministry of gifts given by the Holy Spirit to each believer.”

What is the church?

• The Ekklesia. Read Acts 2:41-42. How did Luke define the beginning of the church? What does ekklesia mean? What are we “called out” from?
• Those are Called Out for a purpose. What did the church look like during this time? Where were they meeting?

What is the church supposed to do?

Reach: organized to…evangelize

• What was the first thing listed in the doctrinal statement above that the church was to do? Read Acts 2:41 again. What was the main function of the church? What do communion and baptism represent? Read Matt. 28:18-20. Who was Jesus speaking to? Why is this command as relevant today as it was at that time?
• What is the only thing that will limit the reach of the church of God? How can we make sure we are not lukewarm in carrying out His command in Matt. 28:18-20?
• Is our God whom we serve today in 2022 the same God who drew souls by the thousands in the days of the apostles?

Teach: and…administer the ordinances

• Read Acts 2:42a. What do we need to be teaching? Read 2 Tim. 2:15. How can we accurately tell others if we are not saturated by the Word in our own lives?
• Read Eph. 4:14. How does this illustrate the lives of those who never read God’s Word? Why is it so important that we share the gospel with unbelievers?

Serve: submitting to God and Christ…

• Read Acts 2:44-45. Why did the new believers do the things listed in these verses? What were some reasons they were pulling together as one in this manner? What is our responsibility today to other believers? Read Gal. 6:10 and Phil. 2:3. Is this how Paul saw our service in meeting the needs of others?
• What are some of the ways we are currently serving God by being a servant in our church and community? Is this possibly what Jesus meant in Matt. 10:42?

Fellowship: ..a local assembly of baptized believers

• Read verses 42b and 46. As we read about the fellowship of these believers, we realize their inability to travel far often created problems we do not have. How do today’s local churches pull together in similar ways? What are some hindrances we incur? How does God desire to use the local church today?
• What are some ways our church meets the need for friendship with people around us? Do we tend to congregate with our “own kind” (clique, money, etc), shutting others out?

Worship

• What are some acts of worship that we perform collectively as a church body?
• What are some of the ways we worship God in private? Read Psa. 29:2, 95:1, John 4:23, 9:31. What can be some personal ways to worship?

Close

What does the local church body mean to you personally? Take another look at the doctrinal statement as to the purpose of the church, asking yourself, ‘as a member of (whatever local church), do I do each of these things, or do I have areas where I am lukewarm, or unconcerned, or lacking in skills that I can learn? Do I congregate with those who are like me (money, status, etc.) to the exclusion of those who make me uncomfortable?’ Make it a priority to be friendly to those you don’t know, and learn a new name each week. Remember our mission statement: “Love God, love people.”

Do you attend a church that is everything a church should be? Does the pastor preach God’s Word with authority, or does he focus on unimportant illustrations or stories? Ponder this as you study this lesson, being certain your church is above all, solid in doctrine, as well as involved in reaching the lost of your community, meeting the needs of those around you, and spreading the gospel to other places. If it isn’t, be the catalyst!

Churches today should be a sanctuary for anyone who comes. They should be a place to embrace worship, to see opportunities to serve, to teach those who need guidance, to make friends, and to exercise the gifts that encourage and edify others. They should be ready to love the addicted, the rejected, and the lost. They should be like a large family where people are accepted for who they are, and their habits or differences become part of the diversity. Color should not matter, habits should not irritate, and love should always be in plentiful supply. You should look forward to going to your church with as much enthusiasm as you would exhibit if you were going to visit a beloved part of your family. Help your church become a role model in your community!

DOCTRINE: THE BIBLE

February 13, 2022

Charles Billingsley

Many books can help us as we journey through life—like a cookbook, for instance. Do you have a special book that has helped you tackle the unknown?

We are currently in a series that focuses on some of the basic doctrines of the Christian faith. We have examined the doctrine of the Trinity, (God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit). Understanding the foundational truths will be invaluable as you navigate the mountaintops and valleys of daily life. Today, we examine the one Book in the world which was written by God and contains “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3), for “in it, the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith” (Rom. 1:17)—the Holy Bible.

Focal Passage: 2 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 4:12.           

Background

• General revelation: What is meant by “general revelation”? Read Rom. 1:19-23. What are the two ways God has revealed Himself to all people throughout every age? What are some of the things in creation that show evidence there is a Creator who knows His creation intimately?
• What is the second way? Read Genesis 20:9. Who recalls the background in this story of Abraham and Sarah? What did Abimelech, a Philistine king, inherently understand by his conscience? Is it only Christians who know right from wrong?
• Special revelation: What do we mean by “special revelation”? Who did God choose for His supernatural communication? Were all those people qualified or extraordinary? Can you give some examples of them? Read 2 Peter 3:15b-16a. This is Peter writing about Paul! How should that encourage us?
• There are three steps in God’s revelation from His heart to reach us. What did the men to whom God revealed His will, do with their knowledge (Revelation)? How do you envision them getting God’s word out to others (Inspiration)? Read Heb. 4:12. How do the words that are heard or read quicken and penetrate our hearts (Illumination)?

Read it

• Read Psa. 144:3. When you read your Bible, do you have a sense of awe that God has said these things to you? What are some reasons you read your Bible? What are some of the things God has revealed in the OT and the NT? Is it necessary for your salvation that you understand everything you read?
• Are you disciplined as you read, perhaps making yourself reread a passage when you realize your mind has wandered? What are some ways you have found that you get the most from your reading? Why are you committed to reading it?

Believe it

• How can you explain the unity that flows through 66 books, over 1500 years, and 49 writers, yet meshing together to read as one single book?
• As you sit down to have a time with God’s word, what is the most important thing that you expect from the reading? How do you know that God has “breathed” every verse in this Bible (2 Tim. 3:16).
• Are there areas where Satan attacks you to cause you to question God’s Word, your faith, the forgiveness of your sins, or any other relationship factor, to destroy your peace?
• Why has God revealed His love to us in this book?

Apply it

• Read 1 John 5:2-3. In Deut. 11:13, God demands obedience. Many centuries later, John writes the same thing. Why? If someone is in a lifestyle of sin, yet continues it with no guilt after accepting salvation, are they truly saved?
• Love God, love people. It sounds easy, but what are some very difficult commands that are hard for you to carry out?
• Why do we hold back on obeying God completely? What is the cry of your heart?
• We live out about 60-70% of what we say we believe. How can we strive to obey God more fully during the remainder of 2022?

Close

Over the past couple of centuries, we have lost much of the reverence that once was held for God, His church, and His Word. Yet through the years, the Bible has remained the number one best-seller, selling approximately one hundred million copies each year. The content sets this Book apart from any other, being the infallible, inerrant Word of God. He chose men who would be filled with the Spirit of God, who would listen as He “breathed” His word to them. Eventually, their scrolls or letters were canonized, and the 66 books chosen by Him were made into one. It is complete, and Jesus warns in Rev. 22:18-19 to neither add nor take away from the words of this Book. Any additional books that may be thought of as “lost” books have discrepancies that clash with the true Word.

The message is not too hard to understand, especially with translations of modern English. Yes, sometimes some commands are difficult to obey, but the result is a new level of joy when carried out, and an increase in faith. We read His word because we know it will reveal Him. We believe it because we have faith in Him. We apply it because He has asked us to tell the world about Him.

John concluded his gospel with these words: “And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. (Jn. 21:25).

DOCTRINE: GOD THE SON

January 30, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Have you noticed people today seem unable to think logically, interpret facts correctly, or understand clearly what they read or hear? Can you give recent examples?

Last Sunday we began a new series on the basic Doctrines of Christianity. We listened as Matt Willmington described the Doctrine of the Trinity in the First Person of God the Father. Today we continue the Trinity, looking at the Second Person of the Trinity, God the Son, Jesus Christ. There are more than 500 prophecies in the Old Testament concerning the coming of a Messiah, and Jesus fulfilled a number that defies possibility. Therefore, to read Old Testament predictions of what was expected of the Messiah means also going to the NT to see Jesus’ fulfillment. For instance, in Luke 7:19-21, we read Jesus answer John the Baptist as whether He was the Messiah. Later, in John 7:31, the crowds watched Jesus, as He, in evidence of His Messianic authority, stood in front of them, fulfilling Isaiah 42:6-8.

Focal Passage: Colossians 1:15-20

GOD THE SON

The Son of the Past

“We affirm that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Second Person of the Trinity. Eternally begotten from the Father, He is God. He was conceived by the virgin Mary through a miracle of the Holy Spirit. He lives forever as perfect God and perfect Man, two distinct natures inseparably united in one person.”*

• Read Colossians 1:15-16. Where did we first see Jesus Christ introduced in the Bible? What was the title usually given to Him in the Pre-incarnate Old Testament appearances? Name some of the times He appeared to OT saints.
• Read John 1:1-3. What are some of the conclusions we can draw from these verses? Read Rev. 22:13. What did Jesus say of Himself in this verse?
• Read John 4:25-26. Jesus made a factual statement here. Given His compassion, integrity, and actions, why would anyone delay accepting His salvation?
• Read John 1:10-14, 6:38, and 10:27-30. Why did Jesus say He had come to the earth?

The Son of the Present

“We affirm that Jesus Christ offered Himself as a sacrifice by the appointment of the Father. He fulfilled the demands of God by His obedient life, died on the cross in full substitution and payment for the sins of all, was buried, and on the third day, He arose physically from the dead and ascended into Heaven where He now intercedes for all believers.”*    

• Before we look in the Scriptures, what are some of the things you know Jesus is doing at this present time?
• Read Col. 1:17-18. Does Jesus act today in the lives of believers? What are some examples?
• Did you include these: To give salvation (John 10:10); To prepare a place for us (John 14:2); To give believers spiritual gifts (Eph. 4:10-14); To offer encouragement to His followers (Heb. 4:14-16); To make high priestly prayers on our behalf (Rom. 8:34); To send the promise of the Father (John 16); To care for His churches (Rev. 1:10-3:22); To work through His people (John 14:12); To wait to return as King of Kings (Heb. 10:12)?

The Son of the Eternal

“We affirm that the return of Christ for all believers is imminent. It will be followed by

seven years of great tribulation and then the coming of Christ to establish His earthly

kingdom for a thousand years. The unsaved will then be raised and judged according to

their works and separated forever from God in hell. The saved, having been raised, will

live forever in heaven with fellowship with God.”*

• Read Col. 1:19-20. Besides being Holy, what are some of the other attributes of God the Father that keep Him from looking upon anything evil? When man was created, could Adam have taken a stand against Satan when he and Eve were tempted? How has that sin affected all of mankind?
• What chance would we have to be in fellowship with God, without a mediator? Read 1 Tim. 2:5. Is it any wonder that one would be condemned to hell if he scorns the very reason the Son of God came to earth to die for us?

Close

It is clear that modern generations, raised to spend much of their time on technological games, social media, or mindless television and movies, would have a difficult time thinking through the irony of assessing the secular and ecclesiastical information concerning Jesus Christ. They can accept that He was someone who truly lived in history, did many incredible miracles, taught with authority, yet they discount His claim of being the Son of God and the foretold Jewish Messiah. It boggles one’s mind that they accept all that He said and did as being highly moral and erudite, yet assume Him a liar when He claimed to be God Incarnate.

What about you? Do you long for sweet fellowship with God the Father, free from sins and habits that seem to plague your existence? Do you have a broken heart when you sin, and confess it immediately? Perhaps those things that are the “weights that so easily beset us” could be the things God allows in our lives over and over until we get so sick of them we finally are willing to “lay them aside” (Heb. 12:1). Pray continually for a heart like His, and for eyes that see life from His perspective.

* Doctrinal Statement, Thomas Road Baptist Church, Lynchburg, VA.

START THERE: DO SOMETHING!

January 16, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What has gotten you so excited lately that you wanted everyone you met to know what you’ve experienced? Can you share?

The past two weeks we have discussed three of the six values that make up our church’s Mission Statement. We looked at our commitment to reading and studying Scripture, our time to develop a meaningful prayer life, and how much time we incorporate into our daily living to worship our God and make worship a lifestyle. Today we are going to look at the connection we have in our community as we come and go among both friends and strangers, loving them enough to have a heart for serving them, using Christ as our example. Above all, we want to love Him so deeply that sharing how our relationship with Him has changed our life is something we wish for everyone else to experience.

Focal Passage: John 13:4-17.

Do Something Unexpected

• Read John 13:4-5. If you had been one of the apostles in the room with Jesus on the night of the Last Supper, how would you probably have responded? Do you identify more with Peter, or with those who did not say anything? Have you ever been in a situation when you washed the feet of those around you? Can you share? What was the main point Jesus was trying to get across?
• What are some of the hang-ups you have that you might find hard to overcome to help a stranger? Have you ever tried to discern the root cause of the dread?
• Read Phil. 2:3-4. Can you share a time when you did some deed such as is listed here, and tell what occurred?
• Do you usually wait until you’re asked before performing a service? What would it take for you to step up to the plate and grab an opportunity when it happens?

The Eternal Impact

• Read John 13:6-8. Above, in the first bullet, we saw Jesus was making a point that the Christ-follower should have a servant’s heart. Did Peter realize this at first? What was his reaction when he realized what Jesus meant by His reply? Can you think of other Scriptures that speak of washing, as in new creation? Read Eph. 5:26 and Titus 3:5. Do these verses confirm the washing we should have as Christians? How was this a picture of His substitutionary death on the cross?
• Read Matt. 28:19-20. When we repent of our sins and accept Jesus’ gift of salvation, what types of responsibilities do we have? How are some of the ways He calls us?
• Read Matt. 25:40. What are some examples of actions we can do on any ordinary day that could make a difference to the recipient? How can we train our eyes to be open to opportunities to be of service, such as Jesus was?
• What are some ways we can be ready to share the importance of the gospel?

Christlike Service

• Read John 13:13-15. Are there parameters that you feel must be met to meet your expectation of serving Jesus? When Jesus was giving us the example of how to live our lives, was He teaching us anything else? Why is doing the right thing, in any given situation, the right thing?
• Who are the people you will not help, or those whom you stay away from? In order to be of service to Jesus Christ, how can you teach yourself to make special efforts toward those you don’t like?

Where do we get started?

• Pray! Pray to be alert to opportunities every day where you can be of service.
• Don’t wait for an invitation to serve! Take a step of faith and offer yourself.
• Don’t wait for the right fit! If you don’t find a fit at first, try something else.

Close

As you read the Gospels, are you sometimes overwhelmed with all the things Jesus did every day? It seems He spent much of the night talking to His Father, and from the time He rose in the morning until He “escaped” from the crowds, He was being followed, dogged, stalked by the religious rulers, always with a mass of people looking for healing, food, or His help. Just the thought of keeping that kind of schedule is intimidating when we think about service!

At first glance, it would seem as though we can never achieve the number of “rules” to be good enough to be saved. But what did we read in Titus? “But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior (3:4-6), we see again that our salvation is grace alone, “not of works lest any man should boast.” Why do we have to be reminded of this so often?

If we could remember, internalize, and put into practice that God’s will is that we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and spirit, and then love others more than we love ourselves, we would find ourselves happier and more fulfilled as we serve Him. Approach the day with the intent to be watchful of every opportunity to serve others—even if it’s only a smile or a compliment. A baby or a young child has to be taught to do the things that make him/her into a responsible adult. Isn’t it logical, then, that a new Christian must also learn the ways of the Lord? Ask Him to show you the next step. You don’t need—nor will you get—a complete road map, but He will lead you down the path He has for you.

START HERE: THE POWER OF THE WORD

January 02, 2022

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

On New Year’s Day, many people resolve to change behavior patterns that need to be adjusted or eliminated, while other people have learned by experience that they will not carry such resolves through. Can you share if you have made some resolutions that began this week?

People who are in the financial world will tell you that it is only by constantly handling genuine money that a counterfeit bill can be spotted quickly. The same is true with our beliefs. To know Scripture well will enable us to recognize false teachers or false doctrines which are so rampant in today’s world. This past Sunday we will look at the authority of the Word of God and consider its power, its function, and guide for living. The words of Scripture are necessary when you are fighting in the spiritual realm (Eph. 6:17). Knowledge of God’s word is necessary if you want to lead someone to Christ (1 Thess. 2:13). We have in our hands a book that was “God-breathed” and has lasted through all generations since the time of Moses. Today we will look at some of the reasons this book is so powerful and living.

Focal Passage: Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3 16-17.

 THE POWER OF THE WORD

• Read Hebrews 4:12. As you read the first phrase of this verse, what is the significance of the first three words from Genesis 1:3, 6, 9? Read Mark 4:39. Does God require anything except His spoken word to create, exercise authority, etc.? How would you explain to an unbeliever that the Bible is “living”? What are some of the examples of power from the Scriptures?
• The Bible is also inerrant. What does this mean? With various translations and versions available that differ, how can we say that the Bible has no error?
• What is meant by “infallible”? What is so special about the scrolls that have been found over the past centuries?
• Which is more important, what we believe and think is true, or what the Bible says? How do you line up your beliefs with God’s word?

Read what it says

• Read 2 Tim 3:16a. What is meant by the “inspiration” of the Bible? If this is true (and it is), how will you be able to please God if you ignore reading and knowing the Bible, or assuming a sermon on Sunday will be all you need?
• Read 2 Tim 2:15. What are some of the keywords in this verse? What is the basic intent of this verse? Is it a priority for you to read your Bible? Why or why not?
• How can you find the will of God for your life? Is it in Scripture? As you read your Bible this year, will you find His will if you write down every reference (as in 1 Thess. 4:3, 5:18)? How can you learn what God wants from you unless you spend time in His word?

Learn what it means

• Read 2 Tim 3:16b. What is meant by doctrine? What are some major doctrines that are non-negotiables when you look for a church home?
• What is reproof from a Scriptural point of view? If you are familiar with God’s word on a certain activity, are you likely to engage in it if you know it’s wrong? Why not? If you are not sure what God says, why are you more likely to get carried away by false teaching? Where can that eventually lead you?

Put it into practice

• Read 2 Tim 3:16c. What is meant by “instruction in righteousness”? Read 2 Peter 1:3. What is the way through which this information will come to us? Does this mean that whatever question we have will probably be answered in God’s word?
• Read James 4:17. What excuse does this verse give you to not be of service to God? Read Psalm 119:11. Why is memorization so important?

Close

Were you one of those who raised your hand this past Sunday at the end of the church service, indicating you commit to reading a portion of Scripture every day during the coming year? What did you have in mind when you raised your hand—a verse, a chapter, a certain amount of time? Do you hope to read the Bible through in 2022?

If you had to commit to eating every day this coming year or doing something you enjoy, you wouldn’t have hesitated!. The truth is, many people believe the Bible to be boring or unnecessary. It is only when the people within the chapters come to life as real persons, with real problems, temptations, or crises just like you, that they begin to be seen as someone you can learn from. Questions regarding situational ethics may always arise, but it’s helpful to stop at that point, seek out a commentary by a solid Christian, and try to figure out what is meant.  Technology in this modern-day can make the Bible much more meaningful than a hundred years ago, by using sites designed to give original meanings.* Whatever it takes, make it a priority! You will never be convinced of God’s will for your life until you read it in the Bible. Keep a notebook handy, and write out your progress—you will be amazed at the growth in your spiritual life.

God didn’t give us the Bible so that we would be bored. Consider it His love letter to you, filled, as Peter wrote, with everything that you will need to live a life of peace and godliness, but it is through the knowledge of Him who has called you that that knowledge will come. Make this year count. If you know the Bible well, pick a topic that perhaps will cause you to concentrate harder as you read: the names of God, the prayers of those within the books, situations that you question (i.e., why did Jacob not recognize Leah the night of their marriage??), or any topic that will spark your interest as you read. Most of all, remember it is living! It may speak to you this year differently than it did last year, just because your circumstances have changed. Remember your commitment and read it with purpose every day.

*www.biblegateway.com; www.blueletterbible.org.

JUDE: STAND UP AND BE COUNTED

December 19, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

There are over 51 volumes of laws for Americans, some as archaic as “it is unlawful for a customer to pump their gas”! Some we know and obey, but most are not even known to us. Do you have a problem obeying all the known laws? Which one gives you the most trouble?

The Book of Jude, the short letter immediately preceding the book of Revelation, was written by the brother of James (verse 11). Both were half-brothers of Jesus. Jude was perhaps not revealing his relationship to Jesus out of humility and reverence. To have grown up in the home with Jesus yet not believed Mary’s or Jesus’ story of His birth must have saddened Jude greatly after the resurrection when the truth of Jesus’ deity was obvious to him. His short letter, which he desired to write to encourage believers, had to be changed to one of warning, as many false teachers had infiltrated the churches. Again, as the God-breathed living Word, Jude’s letter is as applicable to us today as it was to those who lived in Bible times.

Focal Passage: The Book of Jude

            We are called to stand up for what we believe in

• Read Jude 3. What is another word for contend? In verse 4, what was happening? Do we see this today? Have you known of anyone who joined your church to cause division? Can you share?
• Read verses 5-7. Jude reminds the church not to assume all of those who sit in the services are saved. Who does he give as examples? Does this apply to today?
• Read verses 8-10. What are some ways you can identify “wolves in sheep’s clothing”? If you thought of someone in the first point, do you recall what brought about the feeling that something was off?
• Read verses 16-19. In verse 17, what did Jude say the apostles warned them about? Why was it so important to warn believers that false teachers would come into the flock?

We are called to grow in what we believe

• Read Jude 20. What does he mean by “build yourself up”? How can you do that?
• If you were learning to play a musical instrument, how would you build yourself up? What does Jude list as a critical point in growing in your faith?

We are called to love through what we believe

• Read Jude 21. What does Jude mean to “keep yourselves in the love of God”? Does someone have another translation? Read 1 John 2:5, 3:10, and 3:17. How do these verses tell us how to keep ourselves in the love of God?
• What happens when we study the Scriptures faithfully? As you grow in your love for God, what do you desire to do? As you obey Him, what happens in your heart? How does this become a circle, growing you into a mature believer?

We are called to help others in their belief

• Read Jude verses 22-23. What is the first group of people Jude tells us we will encounter? How are we to help them? What does that mean to you personally?
• What is the second group he mentions? How does this line up with the Great Commission in Matt 28:19-20?
• What is the third group? What importance does “with fear” have for us? Read 2 Tim 3:1-5, 9. What are some precautions you would take to witness to these?

We are called to spend eternity with Him

• Read verses 24-25. What is so encouraging in the first phrase of verse 24? Why would He protect us from stumbling? Read John 10:28-29. What is so reassuring about these verses? How will Christ present us to His Father?
• Read Heb 1:3. How are these two verses similar?

Close

Recently we read through the book written by the half-brother of Jesus, James, and reflected on what it must have been like to be raised in the same household as Jesus, as well as several other siblings (Mark 6:3). Now we see Jude coming alongside his brother James in the role of a true believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. Both men (and probably the rest of the family, if we knew), were active in establishing the churches and beseeching the Christ-followers to remain steadfast as persecution and false teachers became worse and worse. Both letters, inspired as “God-breathed”, are very different in style, but keep to the same theme—that of encouraging and warning the churches. As we see Christianity today becoming the target of persecution, we, too, must remain faithful to our God, whatever a day brings.

Jude’s letter was written with one theme: warning of the apostasy in the early church. Nothing has changed during the past two thousand years, and as we are all aware, Christianity is a threat to every person who does not want to come under the authority of an Almighty God. The false religions which are not receiving persecution are not a threat to men, because they are recognized by Satan as man-made religions backed by idols, false gods, or ideologies written and fostered by men. Only Christianity, where the Creator God reaches down to bring man to Himself, is true. It is restricted to a narrow road, with Jesus Christ being the only way to eternal life. Acts 4:12 says, “For there is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” And 1 Tim 2:5 says “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and man, the Man Christ Jesus.”

Keep your focus on God, your prayer life open to Him at all times, and your heart consciously ready to obey His Word. Carry your cross daily! Be ready at all times to tell of the hope you have within you! Forsake all sin and everything that can pull you away from God. It will be so worth it when you see His face.

1 & 2 PETER: BE HOLY

December 05, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

It’s hard to believe we are in December again! What is the most challenging part of this season for you? What have you learned about handling this challenge?

When Peter, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, wrote his two letters (1 & 2 Peter), nearly three decades had passed since Jesus Christ had been crucified, risen, and ascended back to heaven. Peter, the first of the apostles whom Jesus had chosen, was now months—or possibly weeks—away from being crucified himself. That fact makes these two letters to believers whom he had nurtured extremely precious. For three years Peter had daily been with Jesus, seeing His ministry, His miracles, and hearing Him teach, and now an additional thirty years had passed, as he carried out the work God had given him. Throughout both of the letters, Peter focuses on being citizens of heaven dwelling in a hostile world, yet remaining faithful. God never changes. His Word never changes. It is as “living and sharp” in our lives today as the day Peter wrote it, and as we go through days the likes of which we’ve never experienced.

Focal Passage: The Books of 1 Peter and 2 Peter

God’s presence in our lives gives us everything we could ever need

• Read 1 Peter 1:14-16. Why does Peter remind these Christians that they were once living another lifestyle? As we go out into the world, why is it necessary for us to remember that we were once unsaved? Read Is. 51:1. Is that what Isaiah also says? Why did Jesus call us out of that life? What did we deserve?
• Read 2 Peter 1:3. If someone told you that your parents had provided everything you needed to start your home and family, what would you expect when you stepped inside your first house? What did Peter mean when he wrote that God has given us everything we require (notice it does not say “want”) for life and godliness? What is the medium through which He provides this? How do we get that knowledge? What priority should the Word of God be in our lives?
• More and more we are seeing our lives filled with uncertainty. Did God hold anything back when His Word was given to us? If we need to know how to act, to do life, to overcome….is it all in the Scriptures? How do we find what we need?

As a result, we should seek the things ABOVE THIS WORLD

• Read 2 Peter 1:5-8. What are the character traits that Peter lists? Can people have these qualities and still be lost? Why does he say to “add” these to your faith?
• Read Matt. 6:33, Psa. 27:4, 8, 34:14 and Col. 3:1. What are some other attributes that we are to see increase in our life? Why are we to grow in our life of faith?

Avoid the things OF THIS WORLD

• Read 2 Pet. 1:4. We read that His divine power has given us everything that pertains to life and godliness; how do we know this is true? What will they help us escape? Read Ps. 119:11. Why is memorizing God’s Word a shield to protect us from sin? Read James 1:27. Why is it important to avoid the sins of this world?
• Read 2 Pet. 2:1-5. What should we rid ourselves of? How would you do that?

Peter writes that we are to desire the milk of the Word. What gradually happens as babies drink milk after they are born?

• As we grow, what happens in our lives? We often feel sacrifices are not necessary for our daily living. Read Ps. 27:6, 51:17, 116:17, Heb. 13:15. What are some sacrifices we can give God?

Close

No doubt you’ve seen pictures from the 1800s of the California Gold Rush, where men panned for nuggets of gold in the creeks and rivers in the west. In a way, that’s what we do as we read God’s Word daily, looking for those “nuggets” that will—as Peter wrote—help us navigate this life and our desire for godliness. How many times have you needed wisdom or guidance for something that seemed larger than life, and in your morning devotions a verse leaps out at you, giving you the way you should go? Many times, hopefully.

As you begin reading in 1 Peter 1, you see promise after promise. He says in verse 8, “whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory; receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.” Reassurance of salvation is in this short passage. He says, “knowing you were not redeemed with corruptible things like silver or gold,…but with the precious blood of Christ.” In the second chapter he continues, “to you who believe, He is precious.” Later Peter speaks of our testimony among unbelievers, that because we “conduct ourselves honorably, they may, by our good works, glorify God.” And ladies, Peter has a message for you: that your “adornment” be not merely the outward arranging of hair, wearing gold, or fine clothing, but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”

His words flow over you as a blessing when he says we have a responsibility to “have compassion for one another; love as brothers [or sisters], be tenderhearted, courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling [sometimes so difficult!], but on the contrary, blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”

Those are only a few of the Words of life. If we were golddiggers, we would be leaving nugget after nugget. Yet if we just took these few short passages and applied them to our hearts, carrying out the truths in them, we probably would change our families within a few months; perhaps change our church within the year; and who knows? Perhaps we could change our nation within this decade.

JAMES: THE CALL TO MATURITY
November 21, 2021
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Has anyone ever experienced a time of conversation with a stranger, only to later learn they were a well-known or important personality? How did you feel?

This week we have read the Book of James, half-brother to Jesus, who was in the household as Jesus grew to adulthood. Although He had grown up with James and the other siblings, they did not believe He was the Messiah and even asked Him to take His miracles elsewhere. Yet immediately after the Resurrection, the Bible states that Jesus sought out James (1 Cor. 15:7), and soon after notes the presence of Mary and “His brothers” praying with the others (Acts 1:14). Seeing his risen Brother alive had to have been a pivotal moment for James, and he became the leader of the church at Jerusalem. This short book is a picture of how to grow in the Christian faith and is a practical, powerful book encouraging us to be light in a dark world.

Focal Passage: The Book of James

A mature believer has a calm spirit

• Read James 1:19-20. James condenses most of his letter within these two verses, telling us three keys to Christian living. What are they? Is one more important than the other two? Explain how all three have a basis in love.
• What do you think he means by being “quick to hear”? What is at the root of the problem of waiting until someone stops speaking? How do we discipline ourselves to listen to others without interrupting?
• Read James 1:21-22. What result should be brought about if you are listening to someone teach? If your hearing does not turn into action, what is the problem? How useful are you to God if you simply listen, but do not “do”?
• What does James mean that we should be “slow to speak”? Read 1:26. What are some ways to discipline ourselves to control our tongue? Read James 3:6, 8. What is the ultimate grief the tongue can create? Read Psa. 39:1. Why is this a great verse to memorize?
• What is his final admonition? What is the reason he gives? What is usually the root of anger (Read Prov. 13:10)? How can anger destroy a family? Read Prov. 16:32, 19:11. How can an angry person achieve holiness, as God commands?

A mature believer is in a constant state of resetting

• Read James 1:21. How can we daily rid ourselves of the moral filth and evil that we hear or are subjected to? If left in our lives, what will eventually happen? What do you do to your computer to keep the viruses, malware, or other issues from getting into your hard drive? How is that like our hearts with evil?
• Read Psa. 119:11. Why is Bible study and memorization necessary to protect our hearts? What is another way we can shield our hearts from the world?

A mature believer speaks wisely

• Read Jas. 1:26. What is the defining truth in this verse? Read Prov. 10:19. This reinforces Jas. 1:19. How can we develop such control? Read Jas. 3:9-10. This is becoming a bad problem among believers. What can be done about it?
• Until we learn to speak wisely, how will we be able to be used by God?

A mature believer cares for others

• Read Jas. 1:27. What are the two areas where James says we should strive for fruit? How do those illustrate the mission statement of our church?
• Read Jas. 2:15. Why is he emphasizing this point concerning the poor? Besides giving our tithe to the church to distribute, how can we teach ourselves to keep our eyes open when among people, looking for those whom we can help, as it were “without our right hand knowing what our left is doing”?
• Read Jas. 3:16-18. These qualities are the essence of being a Christ-follower. Why do they sum up the different actions he has been suggesting that we follow?

Close

The book of James is one of the smallest, yet greatest, letters in the New Testament. Can you even begin to imagine what it must have been like to be raised in the home with Jesus, but ridicule Him, belittle Him, sometimes following at a distance watching His miracles, but with a hard heart? Probably James stood away from the crowd as the crucifixion and subsequent burial took place. Then, after the resurrection, to have Jesus seek him out and for James to see his Brother alive again? Oh, the anguish, the sorrow! Probably much greater than even Peter had suffered after denying Him. Immediately it seems James and Jude, if not also the other siblings, were part of those who believed, and with such joy!
James covers the main subjects that impact the life of a believer: the tongue, the speech, the listening ear, and the heart. Each of those can stand alone in importance and yet are covered in the rest of the letter by James. Recently we said that the book of Titus is great for encouragement, edification, and help, but James is right beside it! His writing is full of practical insight.
Re-read this book, and underline passages that God brings to your attention. Try to absorb the holiness that can be attained by learning the three important phrases: be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to get angry—all with a great attitude. Or, to sum it up as James did, pure and undefiled religion in the sight of God is to care for the orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the sins of the world. Or, as chapter four ends, “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.”

PHILEMON: RESTORATION IS OF GOD

November 07, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Many families have a member who has withdrawn from the rest, for tons of reasons. Can anyone share if you have been impacted by a situation like this, and tell how/if you were able to heal the rift?

Philemon, a man of Colossae, became a Christ-follower and, being well-to-do, was able to offer his home for use as a church. He also owned slaves, one of whom was Onesimus, who stole from his master and fled to Rome, where he met the prisoner, Paul, and became a believer. Paul, aware that God’s will is forgiveness and restoration of fellowship within the body of believers, decided to send Onesimus back to Philemon, with Tychicus, bearing a short letter. In it, he praised Philemon for his work in Colossae and asked him to forgive Onesimus and restore the relationship as brothers in Christ. This one-chapter book underscores the value of forgiveness within the body of Christ. We need this reminder today, just as Onesimus and Philemon needed it in Paul’s day, as we are so prone to cast aside those who have hurt or offended us.

Focal Passage: The Book of Philemon

Love is the key to doing what is right

• Read Philemon, verses 4-7. Paul begins this letter by commending Philemon for all the good he was doing for the Colossian church. What does Paul mention? What was it that gave him particular pleasure?
• How do you think Philemon was feeling as he read the accolades from Paul, who was a “big deal” and whose name was known to most Christians? We know what is coming next—Philemon did not. Why was Paul praising and emphasizing Philemon’s Christ-like love for the saints?
• How do you think Philemon may have felt about the slave who had robbed him and ran away? Why do the things others do to us often leave us bitter? What must we do?
• The law permitted Philemon to have Onesimus put to death if he ever returned. How do you think Onesimus may have felt returning to Colossae with Tychicus?

Restoration requires grace

• Read verses 8-11. Paul used three different phrases in these verses to put some pressure on Philemon. What were they? Who were two other men whom Paul loved so dearly that he called them “sons”? Why would the use of “son” and “father” cause Philemon to think before acting?
• How would Philemon have been justified by having Onesimus killed? What was Paul asking him to grant Onesimus? Do you think Onesimus deserved grace?
• Why was Paul encouraging Philemon to forgive and show grace to Onesimus?

God will never give up on anyone

• Read verses 15-17. If you had been the recipient of this letter, under these circumstances, how would you have reacted? Paul was asking that Philemon consider Onesimus now as a brother. Why was that a reasonable request?
• Read verses 21-22. Why was Paul confident that Philemon would do the right thing? What would have happened to his testimony if he had not forgiven Onesimus?
• Jesus said we must love others just as we love ourselves. What is the right thing for you to do if there are those believers whom you have cast off because there has been some type of conflict? What does God expect from you?
• How is this the picture of what Christ did for us? Are you ever more like Christ than when you forgive and restore someone who has hurt you?

Close

Whether you have read the book of Philemon once a year for decades, or just a few times, have you ever realized that this letter, in twenty-five short verses, paints a complete picture of what Jesus Christ did for us? We have all been Onesimus.

We were born, grew to young adulthood, but probably just wanted to break the bond of parental control and live our own life. We envisioned a time when we might decide to follow Christ, but many of us possibly wanted to “enjoy” ourselves first. We “stole” years when we could have been following Christ, living for fun. Did we succeed?

Jesus left the splendor of heaven, fully aware of what God the Father had asked of Him. He was going to take on the flesh of a human body, born to parents who did not fully grasp the enormity of the incarnation. He preached salvation for three years, did miracles, fulfilled all prophecies that applied to His first coming. He was crucified to pay a sin debt that we all owed (but could not pay), was buried, and three days later rose to life again! After forty days of being with the disciples, He returned to heaven. All of this—and so much more—because of His great love for us.

For us, He continually offers forgiveness of the sins which we have committed. Philemon and Onesimus had to reconcile and Philemon had to grant him grace and forgiveness. We don’t have an ending for the story, but we know it came about just as our story with Jesus has come true. Christ saw our need, He made arrangements to pay for the need, and took us in as brothers and sisters when we believed in Him and repented of our sins. Now we have eternal life, based—not on what we’ve done—but on what Jesus did on the cross that crucifixion weekend. Have you let Him restore you to fellowship, after stealing years away from Him? If not, take care of it today. Then go out and do likewise to those who have hurt or offended you.

2 TIMOTHY: FINISH STRONG!

October 24, 2021

Pastor Charles Billingsley

Most people have had the experience of being in a race, a marathon, or even a deadline designed to give merit to those who finish well. Does this bring a memory you can share?

The Apostle Paul spent several decades and endured many tribulations preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. As he neared the time when he would become a martyr for the Lord, he wrote this letter to Timothy, with his thoughts centered on encouraging and edifying his “son in the faith” (2 Tim. 4:6-7). In captivity in Rome, in chains, isolated in a cold, damp, and dark cistern, no bed and little food, Paul still wrote with passion. His last words would carry Timothy through the next decades of his ministry as pastor of the church at Ephesus, and then he, also, would be martyred for the gospel. Today we will look at Paul’s admonitions to fight the good fight, keep the faith, and finish the race.

Focal Passage: The Book of 2 Timothy

Fight the Good Fight and Live your Life with No Retreats

 Choose your Battles Carefully

• Read 2 Tim. 2:3. Why would Paul use the analogy of a soldier? As we live as Christians, how are our lives like a battlefield? What are some of the battles we face, perhaps even daily? Why is it necessary to choose our battles with care?
• How would you decide which are important enough to fight for? Which areas in your life would this advice be useful?

Stay Prepared for Battle

• Read Eph. 6:11-12. If any of you are or have someone in your family who is a First Responder, is there ever a time when one can “kick back and relax”? Why is there seldom a time when one can call Time Out?
• Read Eph. 6:13-17. Why is it vital to know the pieces of armor? What are some other steps you can take after “putting on your armor” every day?

Fight from your Knees

• Read Eph. 6:18. Why is this the ultimate weapon? Can anyone recite Dr. Jerry Falwell, Sr.’s, favorite saying on prayer? Why is it true?
• Read Phil. 4:6 and Col. 4:2. What is critical about the attitude of being in constant communication with the Father?

Keep the Faith and Live your Life with No Regrets

Faithfulness in the work

• Read 2 Tim. 2:6-7. Why does Paul switch his example here? What are some lessons we can learn from the farmer? How does a farmer live his life?
• Read 1 Cor. 3:7-8. How much control does the farmer have, other than sowing and reaping? How should we be looking to God for the same help in our lives?
• Read 2 Tim. 3:13-15. How do we see this happening today? According to verse 14, what are we to do? What causes some to throw up their hands and quit?

Faithfulness to the Word

• Read 2 Tim. 4:2-4. Who were Paul’s instructions meant for? Read Matt. 28:19-20. Were Jesus’ words meant only for the apostles? Do we take them seriously?
• What were the action words Paul used in 2 Tim. 4:2? How can you be prepared?

Finish Strong and Finish your Race with No Reserves

Stay Alert

• Read 2 Tim. 4:5. How had Paul done what he is now telling Timothy to do? When you’re exhausted, what are some techniques you use to get a fresh wind?
• Charles gave the statistic that only 46% of people in any given situation are engaged with the speaker. Think classrooms, congregations, conversations; is this you? How can you change your mental gears to stay completely focused?

Stay the Course

• If you had an example in the opening when your strength was giving out, what did you do to finish the course? Have you ever concentrated on taking just the next step? Did you eventually finish? How is that like our Christian walk?
• Read John 6:66-69. We recently read this passage. How is it so important in the context of finishing strong, so that we may focus on the reward of eternal life?

Close

How many people have you had for friends who have deserted their Christian walk and turned away from God? It seems many people do not have the frame of mind that we find in Job 2:10b when he spoke to his wife, “Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?” Trials are not always from God, as Job’s were, but most would feel that “if He’s God, then He could have prevented this.” Many people believe that if life goes “south,” He doesn’t love them.

Trust is always so very important! Think back over your life, and you’ll no doubt see times when you felt betrayed by God. Yet often, though it make take years, you can see what He was doing, or possibly what He needed you to learn, or—if you came through with flying colors—what new level of faith you found yourself living. An English poet from the late 1800s wrote, “Ah! Must—Designer Infinite—ah! Must Thou char [burn] the wood ‘ere Thou canst limn [draw] with it?” Sometimes, that is exactly where we find ourselves.

In the end, we have to stand with Peter, as we read in John 6 above: if you give up, as others do, where will you go? Who else has the words of eternal life? And what if time passes and you don’t return? Will Hell be worth the life you turned from? Remember the way we WIN. When life is tough when you don’t know what to do, where to go, how to keep on going, What’s Important Now? Just think about what you should do and take that next step. Matthew 10:38 says, “And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.” Carry your cross one step at a time, and you’ll make it to the Finish Line.

2 THESSALONIANS: STAND FIRM, GOD IS FAITHFUL

October 10, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Have you ever had your credibility threatened even though you were innocent? How did you handle it?

Today we learn some very relevant lessons from the book of Second Thessalonians, written to the believers in Thessalonica. They were confused and disturbed, possibly by a letter slandering Paul and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul had to remind the church that they had believed the truth as he had presented it, and they needed to ignore those who were causing them distress. This short letter is so needed today, as it reminds us how to stand firm in our faith as the world becomes divided between good and evil, truth and lies. God’s word is truth, able to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Focal Passage: The Book of 2 Thessalonians

Thankfulness produces faithfulness

• Read 2 Thess. 1:3-4. Sometimes we are so grateful for something amazing that thankfulness just seems to burst from us. Can you think of an example? Why did Paul feel that he had to praise God for the way the church at Thessalonica was handling persecution?
• Read 2 Tim. 3:12-15. What are we to do when suffering persecution? What will determine whether you overcome or give up?
• Read James 1:2-3. How can these verses be considered similar to the truth that being thankful to God produces faithfulness?
• Read 1 Thess. 5:18. Why does God desire us to cultivate an attitude of gratitude?

How does being grateful enlarge our faith?

Faithfulness allows us to remain strong when under attack

• Read 2 Thess. 2:15. What does Paul tell the believers they are to do while under attack? Does someone have another word for “traditions”? What instructions was Paul referring to?
• Read Eph. 6:10-13. How can we fight the evil one if we don’t know what the armor of God includes? Can you list the weapons Paul tells us to put on in the verses following? How can you use them unless you know their function?
• Why is it so important to remind yourself of God’s faithfulness in caring for you during times of trials or crises? Have you ever kept a journal of these times?
• It is not uncommon to have a sense of heaviness if Satan is trying to attack. Do you recognize this, and have plans prepared for those times? Do your plans include thanksgiving, praise, and singing?

Faithfulness leads to deliverance

• Read 2 Thess. 3:1-3. Why does Paul covet the prayers of the believers? How is this like our world? Why is it so important that we pray for each other? How do you know that God hears and answers all of your prayers?
• Read 1 Peter 5:8. Peter also warns believers that Satan is real, evil, and spends his focus trying to devour God’s children. How are believers to resist him?
• Read John 10:10 and 16:33. Did Jesus believe Satan is real? Why do some believers think if they don’t “bother him, he won’t bother them”?
• Is this thinking Biblical? Why not?

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For most of us, our circles are immediate family, then the circle of friends, followed by a circle of acquaintances, those who help (doctors, pharmacists, business workers, etc.), and then community. Can you see why—as was mentioned last week—the burdens of the care for the churches and believers were a burden to Paul? Where we might be surrounded by friends numbering less than fifty, and casual friends at perhaps one-hundred-fifty, Paul’s concern was for the believers in all the cities where he had started churches, always being aware that the Jewish leaders would not hesitate to be used by Satan to destroy the new Christians.

Why do we think we are any less important to Satan than Christians in the days of Jesus? He has no reason to bother the unsaved, the wicked, or the evil person. He wants only to see the followers of Christ give up, get frustrated, have disputes with fellow believers, and throw up their hands. Is that how we’re supposed to react?

Paul reminds the believers at Thessalonica to remember the things they have been taught, the basics of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the word of God. In all these things they were to be continually giving thanks to God for His incredible gift of salvation, and His love and protection for them. These things are as needed today as they were then. Every day we can thank God for His faithfulness and give Him glory and praise for His constant care. As we reflect on His lovingkindness, our faith grows, for we know He loves us today as much as He did at any moment in the past, and will never love us any less the rest of our life. He loves us with a love we can only vaguely imagine. It is truly difficult to understand the reality of true, unconditional love. But He loves us so much that, while we were His enemy, He sent Jesus Christ to die for us. How can we ever repay Him? We can’t. But we can love Him with everything we have, thanking Him always for His care and faithfulness to us, and if we love Him, we will obey Him (John 14:21).

COLOSSIANS

September 26, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Commitment to a hobby or vocation often succeeds only because of the self-discipline involved. How did you achieve a victory at something you wanted?

Paul, writing from prison around 60 a.d., penned a letter to the believers at Colossae (in the southwestern part of modern-day Turkey) with the same fervent passion he had used as he wrote to many other churches. Though Paul had never met the Colossian Christians, he had heard that heresy was infiltrating their faith, thus causing him to write and warn them of the danger of believing false doctrine. The letter is both an encouragement to stay the course of their original salvation experience, and an admonition against turning from the pure gospel available through Jesus Christ. It is a letter exceedingly applicable today, as there are many religions now preaching Christianity to be “Jesus PLUS something else.” Jesus is the only way, the only truth, and the only life.

Focal Passage: The Book of Colossians

Walking in His will

• Read Colossians 1:9. During Paul’s greeting and opening remarks, he assures these Christians of his unfailing prayers made on their behalf. Looking back, we know Paul had learned false doctrine had permeated the faith of these dear souls. How would he then be praying? When you have a crushing matter, how does it usually impact your prayer life?
• What is the most important thing he prays for them? Why is it important for Christians to know God’s will? If you do not know His will, how can you do it? How will an apathetic believer seek to follow God’s will?
• If you are sold out to Christ, how will that translate into a desire to be filled with wisdom and spiritual understanding of His will?
• Read verse 10. What did Paul pray the result would be? Apply this to your life: are these four phrases descriptive of your current spiritual growth?

Growing in His power

• Read Col. 1:11. Which type of believer is more likely to be targeted for Satan’s purposes, (weak or strong)? Why? Which one’s destruction would ultimately cause the greatest impact to the church?
• How does a Christian gain their greatest strength to overcome?
• Read verses 12-14. What did Paul remind them? Why is it not as likely to get side-tracked from these great truths if one is seeking God’s face daily in prayer?
• Reflecting on today’s global troubles, how are great patience, joy, and giving thanks able to help us be strengthened in the “inner man”?

Standing in awe of His presence

• Read Col. 1:15-20. In verse 15, what does Paul say of Jesus? Read John 1:18. How does John confirm Paul’s statement? How do Paul and John support each other in Col. 1:16, and John 1:3?
• What do verses 19-20 mean to you? What are they saying about Jesus Christ?
• What does the cross mean to you personally?

  Living strong in His truth

• Read Col. 2:4. What are some of the arguments that we hear today that could deceive believers who have not sought to know God deeply? How does Hebrews 5:14 tell us to prepare ourselves to be victorious?
• Read Col. 2:6-10. Paul is full of encouragement for these believers. What does he tell them to focus on?
• Are these admonitions just as important for us today?

Being committed to His plan

• Read Col. 3:1-4. What are some steps we can take to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things? How can we be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” in the world?
• When you find Satan trying to steal your joy, what are some steps you take to get your mind back onto Christ? 

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This letter from Paul to the church at Colossae becomes so much more appreciated when we understand he was not writing to a group of believers he knew, but to a church that was being heavily attacked doctrinally by Satan. Paul was trying to pray them through it in his own life, and encourage them by his words to strengthen themselves in God.

As you read the letter to the Colossians, you feel as though this could be written to nearly any country in our world, and be just as pertinent as it was when Paul wrote it. We are inundated on every side by Jesus plus certain clothes, Jesus plus certain music, or (as we know), the Bible plus another book—or even a certain translation of the Bible.

As we have spent this year of 2021 reading the entire Bible through, and now re-reading the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs, we find Revelation 22 ending thus: ¹⁸ For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; ¹⁹ and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” God has given us everything we need for life and godliness. May we always live so committed to being filled with the deepest knowledge of God’s will, imbued with His power, that we will be strong enough to withstand the fiery darts Satan sends our way.

EPHESIANS: GOD’S GREAT PLAN

September 12, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What are some of the benefits or “perks” that your children or spouse enjoy because they belong to you?

This week we have read the book of Ephesians, written to the believers in Ephesus, where the apostle Paul had ministered for three years. The letter to this church includes most of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul was not certain he would be able to revisit Ephesus, so he summarized all vital doctrine in the first three chapters and the behavior expected of God’s children in the last three. This six-chapter book could stand alone if you were in a position to carry only a few pages of the Bible, yet still have what you need as the “whole counsel” of the word of God.

Focal Passage: The Book of Ephesians

 We are immeasurably blessed

• Read Ephesians 1:3. What does God do for us when we become His child? What are examples of the blessings we receive? What does Paul mean by the phrase “in the heavenly places in Christ”?
• Read Eph. 1:4. When did God choose us for salvation? Why would we have been on His mind at that time? How do you imagine this occurred?
• What will happen to our heart, soul, and mind, if we are living our life with our thoughts centered on Him?
• Could you enjoy life without Him walking with you? Explain your answer.

We are part of His great plan

• Read Eph. 1:9-10. What was the mystery of God’s will? When had He predetermined that Jesus would come to the earth, die for the sins of mankind, be resurrected, and return to the Father? How did this “bring everything together in Christ”?
• Read verses 11-12. Besides our salvation and daily blessings, what else do we receive? How can we praise Him and bring Him glory for what He has done?
• Read verses 13-14. What happened at the moment you believed in Him, repented of your sins, and asked Jesus to save you? Besides being sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, what else does the Holy Spirit guarantee for us?
• We know only a world where sin reigns. What will Christ eventually do?

We have an eternal hope

• Read Eph. 1:18-19. What does Paul pray for us? What can we do to see that our lives are spent in the glorious reality of Christ walking with us?
• Read verses 20-21. What did God do for Jesus? Why do we not have to be concerned about the turmoil in our lives in this millennium? How can you rest in the fact that God has complete control over this world?
• What is the purpose of the church? Read Romans 8:34. What is Jesus Christ doing, even today, for us?

We are undeniably secure

• Paul takes great pains to see that we believers realize who our enemy is. What does he tell us to do? What are the six pieces of armor, and what is the function of each? Read verse 18. What is the seventh piece of armor that is intangible? Why is it so vital?
• Read Nehemiah 4:9, 17. How is this passage similar to our fight with Satan? How can we live in a world that is out of control?
• Read John 10:27-28. What is so very comforting in these verses?

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Our faith walk often seems to be uphill, doesn’t it? Yet if we would spend as much time meditating on God’s word, committing it to memory, drawing on its ideal for our lives, and drawing near to God, more than we spend watching television, movies, or engaging in random entertainment, we would no doubt see a great increase in our love for our Lord.

Paul wanted nothing less for the believers he had brought to Christ than to see them grow in grace and the knowledge of the Lord. Would we endure beatings, shipwreck, hunger, and so much more, with joyful emotion because we were counted worthy to suffer for Christ? It is hard to say a very resounding “Yes”, isn’t it? Many of us are wondering if today’s world will see a time coming when we have to take a stand for Christ that may cost us our lives. People around the globe are experiencing this every day.

The book of Ephesians is one with eternal perspectives that we need to internalize. Is it too much to begin to memorize these six short chapters, knowing that the doctrine in the first three gives us mighty promises of what God has done for us, what He is doing, and will continue to do? If you have these verses committed to memory, you will be able to answer nearly any question that is asked from the sincere heart of an unbeliever searching for God. Memorize the last three chapters and you will know the patterns for behavior that God wants to see from a regenerate heart. Were we to put these actions into our lives, each day would find us seeking His presence more than the day before. Without His strength, we can do nothing. With Him, nothing is impossible.

2 CORINTHIANS: THE THRILL OF VICTORY

August 29, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Who doesn’t love a home that runs smoothly with peace and laughter? It takes a lot of work to balance a home where there’s unity! Does anyone have some advice that works well?

After Paul’s first letter to the church at Corinth, he then traveled to Ephesus and Macedonia. Eventually, he received word that his first letter had not been received well. As he wrote 2^nd Corinthians, he gave guidelines to eliminate the disruptions, factions, disunity, sin, and more, that were so affecting the church there. Paul also defended his testimony and apostleship, being transparent with many details of his life that are not found in his other letters to the churches. Although it seems a number of the believers had been restored to a close relationship with the other Christians by the time they received this letter, Paul’s biggest concern was that the church at Corinth would recognize the amazing grace of God that was available to them all.

Focal Passage: The Book of Second Corinthians, 2 Corinthians 1, 8.

 Joy and sorrow can co-exist 

• Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. What is Paul’s theme in these verses? Why does he deal so heavily with afflictions and comfort?
• What were some of Paul’s afflictions (11:22—28 if you need to refresh your thoughts)? Why does he say Christ comforted him in them? In verse 4, what is the purpose brought about by Christ comforting us in our afflictions? How does David say this same in Psalm 51:13?
• Read 2 Cor. 8:1-2. Although several chapters later, Paul still talks of afflictions. How is it possible to have both joy and sorrow at the same time? Can you give an example?

Joy is found in what we do, not what we have

• Read 2 Cor. 8:3-4. How did the church in Macedonia act when they were in “severe” affliction? Is this a normal reaction for people who are in the midst of some type of large problem?
• Think back to a time when your family was going through bad news or affliction. Did you request time to accept what was happening? How does that differ from what the Macedonian church asked? What had they learned?
• Which do you believe: that riches, beautiful decorations, “stuff”, and treasures, are a hindrance, or are they wonderful? Can you share your feelings?
• Why does a growing spirit of generosity indicate your faith is increasing? What is the most important thing you can acquire in this life?

It begins in giving all to Him

• Read 2 Cor. 8:5. Who is the source of everything we have or are? What did Paul mean that they gave themselves first to the Lord? How do you give yourself to the Lord? Read Luke 9:23. Does this summarize your thoughts?
• What is our position before God? On a normal day, how much does God figure in your thinking, reading, or talking? Is He getting the “left-overs” of your day, or is it built around Him? Can you explain? What does God want from all of us?

Growing in Him is important; going for Him is, too

• Read 2 Cor. 8:7. Paul is now leaving the thought of the Macedonian church. He has been made aware of the progress being made by many of the believers. What does he commend them for? What does he ask of them?
• What does he mean when he says they need to excel in the “act of grace”?
• Do you see your actions of giving as worship, or is it an act of ritual—or even compulsion? What is the difference? Are you truly a “cheerful” giver?

Christ as our example

• Read 2 Cor. 8:9. Who is the ultimate example for us to model our lives after?

What were some of the actions that Christ did that we should “abound” in?

• What has God asked you to do? Are you doing it?

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There is no doubt our world today is fractured with problems that cause us affliction at every turn. We seldom get through a day without bad news or news that creates an emotional roller-coaster in our home, community, or country. When that happens, is our first thought “God, where were you?” Or do we realize that evil people exist, and until Christ returns to this earth, they will always be with us? Do we see the disunity in our country being brought about by the different beliefs, factions, or rules that protect certain groups—all from divisions that may never be healed, yet we continue to pray fervently for them? We can also pray with more fervor, “Lord, may Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven!”

Paul knew believers had to live together in unity, and his heart was broken over the discord in the church at Corinth. Does your heart grieve over discord in your home, or community—or your church? What do you do about it? Or better to ask, are you doing anything about it? We will always have clashes with the world, but God did not send His Son to this earth for the church to tolerate sin, envy, jealousy, or attitudes of preferences within it. Peace comes to the body of believers when all wish to follow the example that Christ gave us when He left heaven to come to the earth, and when we desire the best for others, more than ourselves, and love for God and people motivates us in everything we do.

We will have affliction—but we can have comfort from God. We can comfort others in their affliction, and it will become a chain that binds our hearts together. We must Love!

ROMANS: PAUL’S PURPOSE, OUR PURPOSE

August 15, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Have some of you done any cold call selling (life insurance, books, etc.)? Did you find it becoming easier each time? Can you share your experience?

This week we finished the book of Acts, seeing the early church grow amidst persecution, and meeting Saul of Tarsus (whom God called Paul), breathing fire as a Pharisee against the followers of Jesus. He met the risen Lord, who transformed him from someone with an evil heart to a man with a passion to win his world for Christ. As we continue through the next several books, we will read his letters to many of the early believers, as the gospel began to spread. Paul’s passion was to bring Gentiles to follow Christ and experience a changed life. Today we focus on Romans 1, letting its power transform our lives as we follow Him.

Focal Passage: The Book of Romans, Romans 1.

            Paul’s purpose explained

• Read Romans 1:1-2. What were the “credentials” Paul wrote as his greeting to witness what Christ had done for him? Read Galatians 1:13, 15-17. Did Paul’s previous lifestyle cling to his reputation even after his conversion? What did the word “doulos (servant)” mean, and what did it say to that culture?
• Read Rom. 1:3-4. Paul gives a concise description of Jesus Christ. What do you see as you read these brief verses? Was Paul summarizing the whole gospel?
• Read verses 5-6. What does Paul say his responsibility became when he was saved? Who else does he say has this same responsibility?
• After God saved you, were (are) there still people who would bring up your past sins if the occasion permits? How do you handle it?

Paul’s passion explained

• Read Romans 1:16-17. These verses contain the most important statement that can be made about the Gospel of Jesus Christ: what is it?
• What is meant by the statement “ashamed of the gospel”? What are some ways you might feel you have some hesitation about sharing the gospel? How can you get past the feelings that hold you back from sharing? How is that like selling?
• Who does Paul say the gospel should be presented to? Would that include groups like politicians who are the opposition, neighbors who dislike you, co-workers who are jealous of your ability, wicked rulers? Who else?
• What happens when we share the gospel? As we prepare our hearts to be able to witness, what happens to our faith? What does Paul mean when he writes “the righteous [or just] shall live by faith” (quoting Habakkuk 2:4)?
• How have you lived your life by faith?

The world’s desperation explained

• Read Romans 1:28. As a reminder, who is Paul referring to as “they”? What did they do? What was God’s ultimate action?
• Read verses 29-31. What does these groups of people remind you of? How much of this do you see in the news, in the movies, or on social media every day in our world? How bad is it really?
• Read verse 32a. What happens to these persons?
• Read verse 32b. What is a second group that is just as responsible as the sinner? Think about the education a child in your family-or extended family-may be receiving. What danger lies in the mandates they must “approve” that is being given to all who participate in grave sins? How can they overcome toleration?
• Do you ever let Satan convince you that perhaps you have sinned beyond what God forgives? How do you handle these thoughts when they surface?

 God’s love explained

• Read Romans 6:23. What is the bad news? What is the great news? Why, then, will only a few accept God’s free gift? What are they afraid of?
• What do you see as the biggest problem affecting our nation at this time? What do you think is the biggest problem in the church?
• What would happen if each Christ-follower sincerely and lovingly shared the gospel with one person each week, month, or year?
• Could you commit yourself to share your faith this year?

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We tend to put Paul on a pedestal for his enormous passion for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, and his constant efforts at growing the church of Jesus Christ. Yet times have not changed—or if they have, they have perhaps gotten worse due to technology. Sin of any sort is at our fingertips instantly these days.

Do we feel we cannot make a difference because we are only one person? Then head to your local church and find others who have the same concern! One thing that can be learned by younger people is that if you have a thought, others also have thought it. If you have a burden, it is also on the back or shoulders of someone else. Let it be known through social media that you are looking for someone to witness with, do Bible study, fellowship…whatever it is you need or feel a passion for, there will be others who share it. Groups formed to help take care of the needs of the church was one of the first areas of service in the early church.

If you can’t leave your house, get a list of missionaries, and write a note of thanks to them for their work. We still have paper, pens, and stamps! If you cannot do anything physical, then grow yourself a prayer garden. The excuse for doing nothing is the lifestyle that has gotten our country where it is today. It’s past time for the church to work!

GROUP TIME – Part 5

SILAS – USE YOUR STRENGTHS TO STRENGTHEN THE TEAM

HOW TO GET STARTED:

It’s easy! Circle up with your friends and talk about the passage. We’ve set up the study with the same weekly routine.

A key practice of growing believers is readying, studying, and applying Scripture together.

The Scripture for our lesson today is: Acts 16:25-40

Each week we’ll READ the passage aloud, PRAY to ask the Holy Spirit to guide discussion, then follow these steps:

1. DISCOVER: What is the passage saying?

• Analyze: look for emphasized statements, repeated words, and the flow of the passage.
• How would you summarize or paraphrase these verses?

2. LEARN: What is the passage teaching?

• Ask the group to discuss the passage. What do they see?
• According to verses 22-24, what are some possible feelings Paul and Silas may have been experiencing when we see them in verse 25?
• “In Roman law, a guard who allowed his prisoner to escape was liable to the same penalty the prisoner would have suffered” (Code of Justinian 9.4.4). In the darkness, without having checked the prison, the jailer was about to kill himself to avoid the shame of public execution from an empty prison. How did Paul and Silas choose to Love God and Love People in these verses?
• According to verses 23-24, was the jailer easy to love?
• What transformed the jailer’s heart?

3. APPLY: What is our response?

• What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about this passage? Is He convicting you to do or change anything?
• Are there people in your life who are hard to love? How can you love them with your actions, even if they refuse to hear the words of the Gospel you may try to share? Read 1 John 3:18 together.

Read the passage aloud one more time and allow people to pray out loud in response.

GROUP TIME – Part 3

PHILIP – OBEDIENT AND FAITHFUL

During the six weeks of our Acts of the Apostles series, the Group Time lessons shared here will be a deeper exploration of a portion of the sermon rather than our usual lesson based on the sermon itself.  

HOW TO GET STARTED:

It’s easy! Circle up with your friends and talk about the passage. We’ve set up the study with the same weekly routine.

A key practice of growing believers is readying, studying, and applying Scripture together.

The Scripture for our lesson today is: Acts 8:26-40

Each week we’ll READ the passage aloud, PRAY to ask the Holy Spirit to guide discussion, then follow these steps:

1. DISCOVER:  What is the passage saying?
   • Analyze: look for emphasized statements, repeated words, and the flow of the passage.
   • How would you summarize or paraphrase these verses?

2. LEARN: What is the passage teaching?

• Ask the group to discuss the passage. What do they see?
• According to the verses, how did Philip know to leave Samaria? Where was he told he should go? What do verses 26-27 say he was to do there?
• List several ways the Ethiopian man is described. What was he reading? Consider why did he have that? Where might he have gotten it? How was he able to afford it?
• Was it a coincidence he was reading Isaiah 53 at the precise time Philip approached? How might Ephesians 2:10 relate to this passage?
• Where was the man going? Based on his attitude in Acts 8:37-39, what can we imagine would happen when he arrived?
• Was Philips’ immediate obedience significant in this passage?

3. APPLY: What is our response?

• What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about this passage? Is He convicting you to do or change anything?
• What are some ways you “hear” the Holy Spirit leading you? (Allow several to share) How can you practice listening to the Holy Spirit this week?

READ the passage aloud one more time and allow people to pray out loud in response.

GROUP TIME – Acts of the Apostles – Part 1

BARNABAS – A MAN WHO STOOD WITH OTHERS

During the six weeks of our Acts of the Apostles series, the Group Time lessons shared here will be a deeper exploration of a portion of the sermon rather than our usual lesson based on the sermon itself.  

HOW TO GET STARTED:

It’s easy! Circle up with your friends and talk about the passage. We’ve set up the study with the same weekly routine.

A key practice of growing believers is reading, studying, and applying Scripture together.

The Scripture for our lesson today is: Acts 15:36-41

Each week we’ll READ the passage aloud, PRAY to ask the Holy Spirit to guide discussion, then follow these steps:

1. DISCOVER: What is the passage saying?

• Analyze: look for emphasized statements, repeated words, and the flow of the passage.
• How would you summarize or paraphrase these verses?

2. LEARN: What is the passage teaching?

• Ask the group to discuss the passage. What do they see?
• According to the verses, how did Paul feel about taking John Mark with them to Pamphylia? Why?
• Does a sharp disagreement mean that they split in anger and now ignore one another?
• Read 1 Cor 9:6, Col. 4:10, 2 Tim 4:11 and Philemon 1:24. How does Paul treat Barnabas and Mark in these later writings?
• How was the spread of the Gospel impacted by this sharp disagreement?

3. APPLY: What is our response?

• What is the Holy Spirit saying to you about this passage? Is He convicting you to do or change anything?
• How can we move forward when we experience a disagreement with another believer?
• Barnabas, the encourager, wanted to give John Mark a second chance and it made a world of difference. Are you like Barnabas? Are you willing to give others a second chance?
• What are ways to hear, read, study, memorize, and obey God’s Word this week?

READ the passage aloud one more time and spend some time in prayer as a response to the lesson and discussion.

LUKE: THE LOST AND FOUND

June 20, 2021

Pastor Charles Billingsley

Losing a valuable item can cause many hours of agony! Do you recall a time you spent every waking moment looking for a lost treasure because it was so important to you? Did you find it?

Luke, a Gentile doctor who wrote the third Gospel, shared many of the events that are also found in the books of Matthew, Mark, and John, but he also included an additional number of miracles and parables that are unique to his book alone. This week our study is from Luke 15, as Luke told of Jesus confronting the Pharisees with their religious hypocrisy. Jesus used parables telling earthly stories with heavenly meanings. This chapter illustrates the amazing love of God.

Focal Passage: The Gospel of Luke, Luke 15:1-31, Isaiah 53:6, Malachi 3:7.

            God pursues us with reckless mercy

            The Parable of the Lost Sheep

• Read Luke 15:1-2 for the setting. Does anyone recall from two weeks ago some of the reasons tax collectors were so hated by the Jews? Why do you think the “sinners” referred to here were so drawn to Jesus?
• Read verses 3-4. Why does Luke begin verse 3 with “So”? Why do we in our culture find it strange that the shepherd would be concerned that he had lost one sheep, but still had ninety-nine? Let’s rephrase this: if you are part of a large, remarkably loving, family, would you easily accept the death of one of them?
• Can someone share what you remember of the actions of the shepherd if one of the sheep becomes lost? What did he have to do to get it back to safety?
• Read verses 5-6. How does the shepherd react when he finds his sheep? Is that how you reacted when you found the valued item you had lost? Can you share?
• Read verse 7. Can anyone paraphrase what Jesus is saying? Who in the crowd were the “righteous” ones who did not think they needed repentance? What does Romans 3:23 tell us?

God seeks us with patient love

The Parable of the Lost Coin

• Read Luke 15:8. Please share what you recall of the actual nature of the “coin” in Jewish culture of that day. What is that equivalent for a woman today? In our opening, was anyone’s lost item their wedding ring? How did you feel?
• Read verse 9. What did she do when she found the coin from her headband?
• Read verse10. Why do you not worry about God losing you out of His hand?

God waits for us with infinite grace

The Parable of the Lost Son

• Read Luke 15:11-12. Who remembers from the sermon the enormous burden of liquidating assets that a request of this type would have had for a Jewish family? What would the cultural shockwaves have been like as the news spread throughout the community? Why did the father do as the son requested?
• Read verses 13-16. What soon happened to the son (“not many days later”—it probably did not take him long to waste it all, just as it usually happens today). Would you have felt that he got what he deserved, or would you have felt sorry for him? Read Prov. 19:4. How does this seem to describe this son?
• Read verses 17-19. What were the words showing he truly repented? Why?

Read Psalm 51:17. Did he exemplify a life ready to be turned back to the father?

• Read Luke 15:20-24. How did the faither receive him? Have you ever lost one of your children for a period of time? What did you do when they returned home?
• In verses 22-23, what was the significance of the items the servants brought, as well as the feast? Have you ever felt this type of joy?

ARE YOU OUT OF THE FATHER’S HOUSE IN REBELLION?

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As we read the story of the Prodigal Son, our emotions run a gamut from intense anger at the impertinence of the boy to judgmental frustration with the father as he liquidated his assets and gave his child a third of the estate, then to gladness when the young man gets to the end of his rope, returning home in repentance, humility, and with a broken heart. Yet it is only part of the story at that point. The father sees the son coming and in a true godly fashion, runs—the worst of shame for Jewish men—to greet his boy. As the son tries to get his prepared speech said, his dad stopped him, ordered the servants to bring the items fit only for the son of the house, and kills the fattened calf (which was being readied for the older son’s wedding). A celebratory feast is held, as Jesus ended the parable, filled with happiness and rejoicing!

But turn the amazing reactions of the father to you and God. Did you ever rebel at some point after salvation, perhaps in your parents’ home, in your marriage, or in some other way, and deserve to have your name blotted out of the Book of Life? Or perhaps you feel that you have sinned away God’s grace and there is no hope. Re-read these three parables and emotionally let yourself experience how much God will go through to bring you safely to His fold. His mercy, patient love and infinite grace are never exhausted when a truly repentant heart is involved.

Don’t let time pass if you’re ready to return to the Lord. He will run to meet you with open arms, and He will never let you slip from His hand. Malachi 3:7 says, “..now return to Me, and I will return to you.” Do it today!

MATTHEW: THE JOURNEY CONTINUES

June 06, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Sometimes, for any number of reasons, we may be uneasy in a group made up of those outside our comfort zone. Will you share an experience that comes to mind and tell what happened?

This week we entered the New Testament era as we began the book of Matthew. We are now on the home stretch of reading the entire Bible during the first six months of 2021. The Jewish nation lived four hundred years between the Old and New Testaments, but God—though silent to the Jews—was working to bring about the fulfillment of the prophecies that would herald the coming Messiah. As the book of Matthew opens, the genealogy of Jesus Christ is given, followed by His birth, preparation for, and the beginning of, His ministry and teaching on earth. Join us as we learn important lessons from Matthew, chapter 9.

Focal Passage: The Book of Matthew

            God wants to use all of us

• Read Matthew 9:9. What were typically some of the unfavorable words used to describe most tax collectors? If you were a Jewish tax collector, and therefore a traitor to your nation, where would you most likely have found friends?
• What do you think Jesus saw as He looked at Matthew and told him to follow Him? What do you think Matthew saw that caused him to leave his job and follow Jesus?
• What may have been going through the minds of the disciples as they realized Jesus had just invited a tax collector to join their intimate group?
• What lesson can we learn when Jesus called a man who was an outcast in society to follow and be used by Him? Can a person get too far away for God to use?

God cares about all of us

• Read Matt. 9:10. What was the significance of Jesus reclining at the table in Matthew’s house? How comfortable would you be in a large gathering of those who are completely outside your comfort zone?
• Why do you think Matthew wanted his friends to meet Jesus, and Jesus to meet his friends?
• What does it take to have the kind of passion to see your friends and family have the opportunity to meet Jesus Christ?
• How do Matthew’s actions line up with your efforts to evangelize your circle of influence?

God wants to reach more of us

• Read Matt. 9:11. Although Jesus is in the early months of His ministry, what opinions had the Pharisees already formed? Why were they criticizing Him for eating with those with whom they themselves would not mingle?
• How did He respond? Read 2 Peter 3:9. How far away from God were you when He saved you? Did you take your own path at some point since then, and return?
• Read Ezekiel 33:11 and Matthew 9:36. Why will the churches never be full enough to satisfy Jesus? Do you love people that much?

 God expects more from us

• Read Matt. 9:12-13. Jesus had to rebuke the Pharisees for their attitude. How do you think this was received? What were some of the statements made about their character that you can recall from Scripture?
• What did Jesus mean, God desires “mercy and not sacrifice”?
• What more does God expect that we Christians do, besides ‘business as usual’?
• What are some of the character flaws that we must guard against, so that we don’t unconsciously become like the Pharisees?
• Why is it so much more important to point people to Christ, rather than telling them they do not deserve to be near Him?

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It is extremely easy to read through these chapters in Matthew, letting the familiar words wash over us, but miss the lessons to be learned. Had you been one of those whom Jesus called to follow Him, you might have been with some of your friends, perhaps even with those whose vocation was the same as your own. They were all no doubt forming a bond with each other and with Jesus. There may have been some curiosity as they grew in their relationship with Him, but there was probably also a thrill of being with someone so special.

Until Matthew. Can you imagine being in a group today of a similar type, when suddenly the one in charge calls to someone who is abhorred by your nation, working for another government, overtly cheating hard-working citizens, and saying, “Come, follow Me!” Then perhaps asking you to make him welcome? We would say, “Jesus—seriously? Really??” Do you think they perhaps grumbled that night? Yet they went with Jesus the next day to a feast at Matthew’s house.

It is much easier to read God’s word than to carry it out, isn’t it? In our case, we might need to show love to someone who has committed sins so vile our family never spoke of them; or someone whose political views are so removed from ours that we feel it might gag us to be nice; or someone from the other end of the financial spectrum who wants to date our daughter…and on and on. But Jesus gave us a responsibility when He returned to heaven that we would be the caretakers of His ministry, loving those who are around us and seeing that they are introduced to Christ. That’s our duty, and we will answer to Him as to whether we were faithful to Him who called us. Remember that to love God is to love people. It is like a coin, each side being a total of who we are. Or should be. May we never forget that.

MAJOR ON THE MINORS

May 23, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Do you recall learning “cause and effect” phrases as a young person? Perhaps you recall “a rolling stone gathers no moss,” or “you reap what you sow.” Can you share a memory?

Today and next Sunday we will be looking at the twelve “Minor Prophets,” as we finish reading the last few books of the Old Testament. As we continue this journey of reading through the Bible in six months, we find the warnings of these prophets could have been spoken recently in any area of the world and the messages would have been just as relevant as they were nearly a few thousand years ago. This Sunday we will concentrate on Amos, followed by key verses from Hosea, Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. Each of these men warned the people to seek the Lord God in order to avoid destruction!

Focal Passage: The Book of Amos

            God Calls Us to Be Holy and Punishes Our Sin

He calls us to listen

• Read Amos 5:1a. Even though Amos was calling the house of Israel to listen to what he was saying, who, then and now, was/is asking us to listen? What are some of the distractions that assault our senses from the time we wake each day, causing us to possibly overlook the voice of God?
• How can we develop the habit (or discipline) to “listen” for God during our time of prayer? Read Isaiah 48:12-13. Who was speaking in this passage? Who was He speaking to?
• We want God to listen to us. How can we develop the habit of quietness when we desire Him to speak to us?

There are always devastating consequences to our sin

• Read Amos 5:2 What were some of the heinous sins that God was going to punish Israel for? What hope did she have in this verse? Read Romans 3:23. Are we all under the same condemnation?
• If a believer continues in a lifestyle of sin, how does his become desensitized to it? (De“sin”sitized!) What will eventually happen?
• Read Job 4:8, Psalm 126:5, and Proverbs 22:8a. What do each of these verses promise us?

But He never leaves us without hope

• Read Amos 5:4. How did Amos finish the scathing warning of coming judgment? Why did God give them hope if they would repent? How is this like Jonah as he preached in Nineveh?
• Read Hebrews 2:3a, Rom. 6:23, and Psa. 32:2a. How do any of us have hope in this world? Are we passionate about taking this story of a living hope to a lost world around us? What are some ways we can do that if we’re just one person?

 But we must obey

• Read Amos 5:6. What is the very important word in this verse? Why? If you personalize the verse with your family name and community, would you be honest with yourself as to which side of the “or” you are currently living on?
• Read Romans 6:16. Is obedience a choice for believers? Read 1 John 2:3. Again, is obedience a choice for a believer?
• Read Colossians 1:21-23. What will Jesus do that will bring Him glory as we stand before God? What will you have to offer Him from your days on this earth?

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The warnings of these prophets—ordinary men who were called by God to proclaim judgment was coming—are as important in this day in which we live as they were in the days long ago. Our world is a mass of confusion with most countries divided down the middle between those who desire moral values and godly living and those who live the motto of the ending of the book of Judges, “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”

What can we do? How can we change the world? It is so easy to feel we are alone in our thinking, and let despair overtake us. We look at our past and feel burdened with the failures we recall; we look at the future and the way seems unclear, the problems seem too big to handle and the help we see insufficient; we look at the present and are filled with fear of the next step. It’s easier to stay within our comfort zone, be silent, keep from making waves, and stay away from the news. But is it right?

Is that the life Jesus called us to live in Matthew 28? Hardly. The apostles, certainly, could have easily gone back to fishing. Few of them would have envisioned a death of martyrdom—until James was beheaded (Acts 12) and it “pleased the Jews” [religious leaders]. God does not want us to live afraid of men, either. Although we never foresaw a world where Christians are so hated, it is time for us to put fear aside and stand up; put our past behind us and remember all our sins were hung on the cross (Col. 2:11-15). The present day is a gift to us from God, that we should “rejoice and be glad in it. This is the day the Lord has made!” (Psa. 118:24). The future? There is only one way to handle it: stay in the Word, reading and memorizing, engrafting and meditating, until it is deep in your soul, ready to be a “lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path” (Psa. 119:105), so that you don’t sin. Love Him, talk to Him, pray to Him, obey Him, and LISTEN to Him! It may be a still, small voice, or it may be thunder. Be ready! 

Key Verses From the other Minor Prophets:

• Hosea 5:15: “I will depart and return to My place until they recognize their guilt and seek My face; they will search for Me in their distress.”
• Joel 2:12-13: “Even now—this is the Lord’s declaration—turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the Lord your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger; abounding in faithful love, and He relents from sending disaster.”
• Obadiah 1:3-4: “Your arrogant heart has deceived you, you who live in clefts of the rock, in your home on the heights, who say to yourself, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ Though you seem to soar like an eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down. This is the Lord’s declaration.”
• Jonah 3:10: “God saw their actions—that they had turned from their evil ways—so God relented from the disaster He had threatened them with, and He did not do it.”
• Micah 6:8: “Mankind, He has told each of you what is good and what it is the Lord requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.”
• Nahum 3:4-5: “Because of the continual prostitution of the prostitute, the attractive mistress of sorcery, who treats nations and clans like merchandise by her prostitution and sorcery, I am against you. This is the declaration of the Lord of Armies. I will lift your skirts over your face and display your nakedness to nations, your shame to kingdoms.”
• Habakkuk 1:12-13: “Are you not from eternity, Lord my God? My Holy One, You will not die. Lord, You appointed them to execute judgment; my Rock, You destined them to punish us. Your eyes are too pure to look on evil, and You cannot tolerate wrongdoing.”
• Zephaniah 3:15: “The Lord has removed your punishment; He has turned back your enemy. The King of Israel, the Lord, is among you; you need no longer fear harm.”

LAMENTATIONS: THE RIGHT CRY FOR HELP

May 09, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What is the lowest point you’ve ever reached in life? Can anyone share? What lessons did you learn from it?

Sometimes the pain we experience seems more than we can bear. Those who have a solid relationship with God can see His faithfulness in past seasons of grief, but even then life can be very tough. Jeremiah the prophet, as he wrote the books of Jeremiah and Lamentations, found the destruction of Jerusalem and the spiritual destitution of his people Israel to cause him more suffering than he thought he could handle, and he cried out to God for relief. As we continue reading the Bible through in these first six months of 2021, we find there’s much  encouragement to be gleaned in this short book by “the Weeping Prophet.”

Focal Passage: the book of Lamentations

The Right Cry for Help

• Read Lamentations 1:2. What were the circumstances under which Jeremiah wrote this lament for his beloved homeland? Why does he call the other nations “lovers”?
• Read 1:5. This verse lists the reasons for Judah’s destruction by God. What had she done? Although different circumstances, who are some other OT saints who cried out to God for deliverance in times of emotional or physical agony

Our first turn should be to Him

• Read Lam. 3:52-54. Why did Jeremiah feel that everyone had become his enemy? (In last week’s sermon, how was his message of warning to Judah received by the rulers, the religious leaders, and the people? Did they hate him for his dire warnings from God?)
• Can a person go much lower in pain and sorrow than to feel like death would be a release? Explain your answer.
• Read Lam. 3:55. How was Jeremiah able to pull himself out of his anguish enough to call upon God? What other options are generally tried first, as we seek to relieve our own suffering? Why is it usually a last resort to draw near to God rather than to go to Him immediately?

 His promises are absolute

• Read Lam. 3:56-57. When Jeremiah cried out to God, what was God’s response? How is that restated in James 4:8a? How do you know that is a promise for us?
• How was Jeremiah’s cry to God similar to David’s trust in Psalm 23:4? Read 1 Peter 5:7. Is this also a promise that we know we can trust? Can you share a favorite verse that promises God’s help during times of trouble?

He will do the heavy lifting

• Read Lam. 3:58-61. Once Jeremiah breaks through his chains of agony, where does he begin to focus his thoughts? What does he start to thank God for?
• How did Jeremiah relinquish control of the revenge he might have wanted to exact on his enemies? Read Romans 12:19. How have you been able to turn your desire to “get even” with someone over to God? Were you able to let it go?

Nothing is too hard for Him

• Read Lam. 3:22-25. As Jeremiah began to focus on God, with His past faithfulness and constant care, how did he turn his own grief to faith? What promise did he give us as an anchor we can hold on to through our storms?

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Scripture is full of beautiful passages that have resulted in hymns and songs of worship throughout church history. Some, like those based on Psalm 23, are too many to number; others, like “I Am His and He Is Mine” (Jer. 31:3), “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth” (Job 19:23), or “Grace Greater Than All My Sin” (Rom. 5:20), will probably be sung in churches until our Lord returns. A favorite hymn, though, was taken from Jeremiah’s words in Lamentations 3:21-23, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” He spoke words that resonate in our hearts as we remind ourselves of the faithful watch care our Father provides, but he went on to write, “His compassions fail not, they are new every morning.” Do you see the wonder of that?

Would our depths of pain, sorrow, or grief be lighter if we were truly able to grasp how much God loves us? Probably. We tend to think in finite terms of love, one that is often more conditional than unconditional. Sometimes we may even struggle with doubts that we love Him as He desires us to. God’s first commandment—that we love Him—should be our top priority. If we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and spirit, we will always be aware of having Him near, and when seasons in life get out of control, we grab that anchor that will be there no matter how bad the storm. We need to train our minds to recognize that we need Him every moment of every day for every need!

When night comes, when the thoughts on one’s pillow create unrest and worry, we call out His name and He’s there to comfort. Where can I go from Your presence, David asks in Psalm 139:7-12. He then concludes, nowhere, Lord. Or as Peter proclaimed in John 6:67-69 to Jesus, when He asked if the disciples wanted to leave Him, “Lord, to whom should we go? Only You have the words of eternal life.”

May that be our conscious refrain as we come into trials, as we go through them with His help, and come out on the other side with thanksgiving. Where else can we go? Only He has the words of eternal life for us.

WISE WORDS: THE DANGER OF PRIDE

April 25, 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Do you consider yourself to be capable of meeting most challenges, or are you low on the self-confidence scale and are constantly seeking self-help books?

Today we will finish our mini-series on the wise words of King Solomon, as he wrote in the book of Proverbs, concerning the dangers of pride. We will couple it with passages from the book of Isaiah, which we are finishing as we read through the Bible in six months. Both the prophet and the king illustrate the path of destruction that pride can lead us down, for it is a constant struggle nearly everyone faces. We know God hates pride, and is against anyone whose life reflects the modern adage “It’s All About Me.” Is there help, or an opportunity for change, if your life is filled with pride? Yes! Join us as we examine this insidious sin, and learn how to overcome it.

Focal Passages: Isaiah 12:1-4; Isaiah 14:12-15; Isaiah 25:1, 9; Proverbs 16:18.

            In our success, pride seeks to stop us

• Read Proverbs 16:18. Everyone seems to battle the desire to be appreciated for what we look like, what we do, or how we act. As we experience praise for accomplishments, what are some results that can occur? How can moments of praise turn into pride?
• Read Isaiah 14:12a. How do you think the person* in this passage possibly began to be filled with pride? How can a person be unaware that pride is slowly infiltrating their life?

Pride makes us believe what is not true

• Read Isa. 14:13-14a. As this person continued to be constantly receiving praise, what did his mindset reflect? How did he build himself up in his thinking? Does he remind you of any other Old Testament figure? Read Daniel 4:29-30. How were these two men alike?
• What was Satan probably whispering in his ear in times of achievement? What was the biggest lie that he was believing?
• If someone tries to help one who is succumbing to pride, how do you think it may be received?

 Pride causes us to replace God with self

• Read Isa. 14:14b. What was the final pinnacle this person aimed for, once he had achieved the goals in his life? Why did he believe he could attain the level of God?
• When each successive accomplishment is a win, what happens to our belief that we can do it on our own? Who will get the credit for the great job? Does the person with that much pride need God at all?

Our pride never takes us where we believe we’re going

• Where does the person who is filled with pride think his winning streak is going to end? Read Isa. 14:15. Does he ever believe he will eventually fall? Why or why not?
• Does anyone recall what the term “the deepest regions of the pit” mean?
• In their false picture of a self-made life, will they ever envision themselves doing anything except coming out on top?

The right attitude to defeat pride

• Read Isa. 12:1-4. What are some obvious differences between this passage and the one we read in Isaiah 14?
• If someone wants to truly change from a mindset of pride to one of humility, what steps can they put into effect to stop worshiping self and start worshiping God?
• How can one learn to look to God for all things? How can we learn to put our faith, trust, and worship in God and God alone?

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Pride is a disease of the spirit that can destroy us just as surely as cancer can kill the body, for God is “opposed to the proud” (James 4:6) and will “destroy the house of the proud” (Proverbs 15:25).  Praise—or even the internal emotion of accomplishment—is very addicting. It is a euphoric feeling that we want more of, even though we may not consciously make a connection between the praise and the desire to keep riding the “high.” And it may be so gradual that it can be years before we attain to a level where we feel we are very special and therefore deserve the glory.

We seldom—if ever—come across someone who has a desire to self-destruct, yet the downward spiral is so subtle that it can be hard to recognize one is on the path to pride. The successes in life foster a sense of accomplishment—or praise from the world, which creates the desire for more of the same euphoria; Satan moves in, and starts feeding lies to the mind (“You are so awesome!” “Look what you did all by yourself!”); the pride goes deep into the soul; we become the enemy of God; we are destroyed. It is not an overnight happening.

The praise of men is an elixir. In John 12:43 John mentions that some of the rulers believed Jesus to be the Son of God, but they would not confess Him, fearing they would be put out of the synagogue, “for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” How very sad. Their choice was going to seal their eternal life, where they would have all of eternity to consider their actions.

There are hundreds of verses in the Bible that can be used to train our minds to glorify God. Isaiah 25:1 and 25:9 are two great verses of praise. Nothing is too much trouble to give to the One who paid for your sins!

Here are steps to be certain you are overcoming pride: 1) Be grateful for all the things God has done for you; 2) Deflect praise, giving it to another, or to God, but above all, don’t seek it; 3) Honor others, spending more time praising them for what they’ve done than spending time thinking of yourself; and 4) Make sure to always focus on God’s word.

*Opinion is divided whether the reference in Isaiah is the King of Babylon, or Lucifer (Satan) as he fell from heaven. The lesson to be learned and the result will remain clear in our lives, whichever it is.

WISE WORDS: HOW TO LOVE

April 11. 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

If you are married, can you share the best advice you have ever received, and tell how it has impacted your marriage?

In the midst of our challenge to read the Bible through in six months, we want to have a mini-series as we focus on the three wisdom books of King Solomon—the wisest man who ever lived. Solomon wrote Song of Solomon as a young man in love, anticipating marriage to his chosen. Later, as a middle-aged man, he wrote the Proverbs, and even later, Ecclesiastes, as an older adult looking back on his life and mistakes. As we center on both the literal and spiritual meanings of this Song, we learn God has established guidelines for the marriage of a husband and wife, meant to last through the great times as well as the trials. We will study the books in the order Solomon wrote them. Join us as we learn from these “Wise Words.”

Focal Passages: The Book of the Song of Solomon; 1 Cor. 7:3-5; Matt. 22:36-38.

            It Is a Love of Overwhelming Desire

• Read Song 1:7. This woman longed to be with her intended. What struggle was she having as she searched for him? Why was she so concerned about searching for him among the other shepherds? How does her desire to protect her reputation compare with the actions of many young women today?
• In the spiritual realm, what are some actions that today’s culture considers normal, but which can erode the testimony of a believing woman or man?
• When you decided Christ was the only means for salvation and peace, did you experience difficulty in finding Him? Why or why not? Were you concerned about your reputation among your friends?
• Can you share some of the feelings you recall as you anticipated the beautiful years of marriage to your chosen spouse?
• We all know people who give up on their marriage because the desire fades with time, and they want that original feeling. Why does this happen? How is that like those who quit on God in order to look for peace or happiness somewhere else?

It is a Love that Gives Completely

• Read Song 4:6-7. If we mentally hold something back when taking our marriage vows to our spouse, what may happen? Read 1 Corinthians 7:3-5. Why

was Paul inspired to write these words to apply to our marriages?

• Read Matthew 22:36-38. When we accept God’s provision for salvation, how does He want us to come to Him? What happens if we have an area—or areas—that we don’t turn over to Him? Why will our relationship probably fail?

It is a Love that Overcomes

• Read Song 5:6-9. Have there been moments so tough in your marriage that only knowing your spouse will be by your side at the end of the day makes it possible for you to see the crisis through? In your spiritual life, how is the same fact true of your relationship with God? Read John 6:66-68. How does this explain your love for Jesus Christ?
• As you look back over your marriage, can you see that your love for your spouse has grown deeper through the years? In the same way, are you able to know that your love for God is much greater than when you were younger?

It is a Love that Lasts

• Read Song 8:6-7. What does the Shulamite woman say about love? Did she and King Solomon have the kind of love that could not be defeated? Why or why not? What does this teach us about fighting for our marriages?
• If we mess up (“…for there is no one who does not sin,” 2 Chron. 6:36—Solomon), how do we know that God is not going to let us go? Read Rom. 8:38-39. Why does verse 39 bring such comfort?
• Read 1 Corinthians 13:8. What does the love that God desires we have for our spouse have as its crowning jewel? If we put God first in our marriages, are we able to have the kind of love that will not fail?

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It is hard in today’s world to find couples who take marriage seriously, isn’t it? Men and women alike can be charmed by members of the opposite sex who think that, for whatever reason, someone else may offer them a way out of their own marriage, or at least give them a better time than they feel they endure at home. Divorces are so cheap that almost anyone can afford them. There are government programs available to others who need to escape a marriage that is outside the guidelines of God’s best for us. Millions live by the motto, “When the going gets tough, get out!” A beautiful marriage is definitely a gift from God.

Have you learned to be certain that you know your possible mate inside and out? Hopefully, you were able to establish a friendship that held a spotlight on every facet of their personality. A pastor used the phrase “Every date is a possible mate,” to help his children—and those in his flock—put more thought into casual dating. The bottom line is, let God lead you to a person who becomes your best friend, fall in love, and marry according to His standard.

The successful marriage is one which has both partners committed to putting God in first place. Those who are secure in their relationship with each other, and in their position as children of God, will desire to live each day as a service to each other and to Him.

Hopefully, you have learned lessons about the sanctity of marriage, and God’s will for it to be holy. If you want that, it is never too late to ask Him to help you start now, making your marriage be all it can be. It’s never too late for God to bring good out of our circumstances!

LOVE GOD LOVE PEOPLE:

RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME, RIGHT PURPOSE

March 28. 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Can you recall a time when you just happened to be in the “right place, at the right time” and

later was able to reflect, awed that you had been able to help someone? Will you share?

Amazingly enough, we are about half-way through reading the entire Bible in the first six months of 2021! Today we look at the book of Esther, named for the Jewish girl born while in captivity, who became a queen. In the large kingdom of Persia, Esther was known for her beauty and grace. As queen, she was called upon to use qualities of honor and bravery to save thousands of fellow Jews from death. We can take the lessons from Esther and apply them to our own life, as we seek to serve God in a dangerous and bizarre time in history.

Focal Passage: The Book of Esther

            The Right Place

• Esther and Mordecai, her older cousin and guardian, were living in captivity in Persia. Can anyone relate background facts that you recall? Read Esther 2:15. What can you surmise about her character just from her actions?
• When we say she was in the “right place,” what do we mean? How do you see God’s supernatural power at work in her life?

The Right Time

• Will someone tell of the short episode that happened to Mordecai in Esther 2:21-23? Why was the occurrence also supernatural? How was this important?
• Read Esther 3:1-2, 5-6. What can we learn about Haman from this passage? Do you recall any verses that stood out as you read of his activities in the book?
• Read Esther 4:1. What did Mordecai do upon finding out Haman was going to kill the Jews? What was Esther’s position by this time? Read Esther 4:2-3. Do you remember what she did when she heard of Mordecai’s actions? What do we mean that she was at the “right time” to help her people?

The Right Purpose

• Read Esther 4:5-8. In verse 5, why did Esther seem insulated from the situation concerning her fellow Jews? In verse 8, why would she hesitate to approach the king? What besides the issue with Haman did she have to be concerned about?
• Read verses 14-16. Esther had everything she could have wanted. How did she react when she had to make the decision to fulfill God’s purpose for her life?

What does Esther’s example mean to us?

We must speak!

• Read verse 14a. Why do we keep silent in our community, whether on social media or by another way? Read Acts 4:20. What if Peter and John had been silent? Do you feel fear when asked to do something that takes courage?
• Will we be responsible to God when we do not speak out?

We are here for His purpose.

• Read verse 14b. Are you willing to ask God, in expectation and faith, ‘will You show me why You have put me here, in this time and place’? Can you share?
• Has there already been a time when you recognized that God has placed you where you are for this moment? Can you share?
• Do you have a particular character quality that might be used by God? How often have you told Him that you are available for Him to use?

Our only hope is to lean completely on Him.

• Read Esther 4:16a. What actions did Esther tell Mordecai to take? What could she have done instead? Why did she not access her power, position, or status?
• How do you react when you will be facing a real crisis?

We must sacrifice self for His purposes.

• Read verse 16b. Why was Esther willing to go into the king, though it might cost her life?
• What have you sacrificed this past week for God? This past year?

Close

Today is Palm Sunday, the day that begins Passion Week, when Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem in fulfillment of prophecies, was arrested, tried, beaten, and then crucified on Friday, to rise from the grave under His own power on Sunday morning. He was, in fact, the fulfillment of John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

Today’s story of Esther, so filled with situations that could only be brought about by God, is a perfect picture of the love that Jesus was speaking of in John 15:13. Only He knew the cost of what He had come to earth to accomplish, and only He knew the sacrifice it was going to require. Likewise, Esther would not only go into the king with no idea how it would play out, but could only say, “And if I perish, I perish.” She was ready to die, if necessary, hoping to save her people.

Few of us have had to sacrifice or suffer physical abuse for our faith. Yet if that is God’s purpose for us, He will give us the grace to endure when that time comes. Esther knew that nothing she held dear—her position, status, family, friends, wealth—could be a shield between her and the law to annihilate the Jews, but she was willing to be used by God. Are you?

LOVE GOD LOVE PEOPLE: WORSHIP WARRIORS

March 14, 2021

Pastor Matt Willmington

Sometimes life hands us some pretty bleak times! How do you personally handle trials when they come? Is it sometimes easier to play the Ostrich?

This past week we persevered through 1 and 2 Chronicles as we continue to strive with our challenge to read through the Bible in six months. Did you assume at first that these two books were repeats of 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings? They were actually not retelling those four books, but they form a recap of many of those events. Of King Saul’s life, for instance, only his death was retold. Once one becomes aware of the intent, it is easy to quickly move through the chapters, realizing the importance those genealogies and historical facts are to the Jewish nation. Today’s sermon, taken from a passage within the week’s reading, has a great lesson to help us endure the valleys in our lives, and by following certain guidelines, we will allow them to become Valleys of Blessing!

Focal Passages: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30; 6:28-30; 7:13-14.

            SEEK GOD

• Read 2 Chronicles 1-4. What was Jehoshaphat’s first reaction when he was told armies had mobilized against him? What is usually your first reaction when told bad news?
• What was the second thing the King did? The third? Why do you think he fasted for God’s favor? What do you think of fasting—is it something you do often as a Christian, or almost never? Why or why not?
• Read 2 Chronicles 7:13-14. Who is speaking here? Do we know about any of these examples in today’s world? Why? What is the conditional clause God makes here?
• Look back at Jehoshaphat’s internal responses: How did he fulfill the steps listed in 7:14 by his actions?

PRAY TO GOD

• Read 2 Chron. 20:5-9. As you read this prayer of Jehoshaphat, what were some of the phrases that showed he was very aware of God’s power? Read verse 9 again. How much faith did he have?
• What does he pray in verse 12? Why is that a great prayer for us to pray daily, especially during times of crisis?
• Was he seeking God as just a cursory action? How was he throwing himself upon God’s mercy?
• Have you ever set these four steps in motion when faced with an emergency?

• Read Ch 20 verses 14a, 15, 16a, 17. How did God answer Jehoshaphat’s prayer through the priest Jahaziel? Does anyone recall when a similar exhortation has been used this year to calm the fears of Israel?

WORSHIP GOD

• Read verse 18. How did Jehoshaphat and the people react when they received

God’s answer? If you have ever been as overwhelmed as he and his people by the power and majesty of God in an answer to a prayer, can you share it?

• Can someone tell what happened the next morning as everyone went out toward the battle? What did the people do after that?
• Read verses 27-30. How did these people return to their homes? Why did this valley –that seemed to be a prelude to catastrophe–get renamed as the Valley of Blessing? What do you imagine was the level of the people’s joy over the next months?

Close

It is good to read of a great experience of faith for one of the kings of Israel, isn’t it? We get almost jaded as it seems they usually have the epitaph of “doing evil in the sight of God.” When we read of one who was a faithful follower of God, it’s refreshing.

Is it possible this same scenario can also take place within our homes? Not that there has to be evil, but often just the tension, or disagreements, the continual bickering or even yelling gets so old that those who have to hear but have no control over the situations (the children, neighbors, renters, etc.) get “jaded” by our lifestyle, and it definitely has a negative impact on our testimony. Or maybe it’s not your family that is the cause, but the world that continues to creep in through the internet, social media, magazines, movies, or television—or “news!” Many of the people whom we watch for news, or a reality show, or some other type of performance, would never be allowed in the door if an unknown person came in bearing the politics, the slurs, the language, or the attitudes that we allow through media, and they leave a jarring note that can erode the peace in a family.

Just as we enjoyed reading the saga of someone like King Jehoshaphat, perhaps our families desire our testimony to be peace, joy, singing, or words of gratefulness! The take-away from 2 Chronicles 7:14 (as well as from the priest, Jahaziel), is a great formula for our lives. When is the last time that, as a family, you gathered together during a crisis and had a time of opening your hearts before God in true humility, praying with all fervency, seeking His face (and listening to what He might need to say to you), turning from any known sin or wickedness, and asking for healing? Or, once He gives His answer, SHOW UP to do whatever the situation requires or He asked of you, for without your active response, there may be no victory; then SING. How many times in the Bible are we told to sing, raising our voices to God in praise and adoration, giving back to Him the breath that He breathed into our lives? And always GIVE THANKS for His faithful love, which shall endure forever. You do not ever have to go through another crisis alone, and your home and family can choose to live a life full of joy!

THE RIGHT WAY TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT

February 28. 2021

Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Is there a situation in your life that you wish you could make right, with people who are still living? How would you handle it, if so? Is it something you can share with the group?

This past week we finished the book of Judges—men who had been ruling in Israel after the death of Joshua—and moved into the years when the people demanded a king. In 1 Samuel, we read of Saul, who was the first king of Israel. Because he did not obey God’s commandments, God raised up David, known throughout history as “a man after God’s own heart.” Certainly, David had times when he did not obey God’s commandments as well, but his actions at those times indicated David confessed his sin and repented and was restored to fellowship by God. Today we will look at one of the accounts of David’s reign, which may help in our own walk with God, providing lessons as we glean nuggets of truth from this episode of his life.

Focal Passage: 2 Samuel 21:1-14

Go to the Source

• Read 2 Samuel 21:1. What are some results that will occur when a country is in the throes of a long famine? Why do you think David may have been concerned that the famine could be a result of sin? What happened immediately after David prayed? How did God respond?
• Can someone paraphrase the original situation that occurred in Joshua 9? Read 2 Sam. 21:2a. What had Saul done? How do we know that David realized how seriously God takes an oath? What did David do to correct the situation to end the famine?
• What are some types of famine that might occur in our lives today? Read Hebrews 13:8. In light of the situation with the Gibeonites, is there even a small possibility that any of our present sufferings are tied to unconfessed sin in our home?
• If you answered yes to the last question, what should be done in order to bring about an end to what you are going through? (Think about it if you would rather not share).
• Read 2 Chron. 7:14. Who are “my people” in this verse? Is there more than one answer?

For any of the answers, would the solution be the same? In America, is it citizens or Christians?

• If God’s children are concerned that unconfessed sin is a problem, and they have a godly repentance, how will God respond? Will He ever turn a humble child away?

Act when He speaks 

• Read 2 Sam. 21:2b-3. What were some of the options David had, after God told him what the problem was? Do you think David considered any of them?
• As you read the verses of this narrative, what do you feel was in David’s heart regarding this whole situation?
• If you have something that you know is causing a problem between you and God, is there any possibility that you have chosen to ignore it, or even compromise, rather than to take steps showing genuine repentance?
• If you are aware of a problem, how do you think God might ask you to correct it? Can you share?

Be people of peace

• Can someone relate what has happened between verses 4-10? Did David completely take care of the situation with the Gibeonites? Did he do everything he needed to? If this were your situation, would you feel you could say you were finished? (What would God say?)
• Read 2 Sam. 21:11-14. We have a saying: “above and beyond [the call of duty].” How can you explain that feeling as you read of David’s actions after he has done what the Gibeonites have asked?
• Again, if this were you trying to rectify a situation that had been causing you grief, do you honestly think you might “go the extra mile,” or would you just be so glad it’s over, and you want to put it all behind you? What is your natural response?
• If you were truly striving to be a person of peace, which would be the obvious answer?

Close

The Bible, as we read in 2 Timothy 3:16, is for “instruction in righteousness,” and we find lessons in so many unlikely events. Today we remember the Gibeonites, who tricked Joshua into making a covenant with them soon after the Israelites began to enter the Promised Land. Yet even though the covenant had its origin in a lie, God still honored the oath that was a result. Four hundred years later, Israel suffered a long famine, and David is concerned that sin might be the problem for the famine. If we have a problem in our life, do we ever wonder if it could be the result of a sin that was never repented of, and seek God’s heart on the matter? What are some of the famines that you have experienced? Are you concerned that there could be a connection between what you are going through and some situation that was never taken care of?

There are few things that bring the sense of peace that we can experience when we have a right relationship between us and our heavenly Father. That is one reason He wants us to always keep a short account when it comes to sin of any kind—just as you want your child to come to you about any problem in their life, especially if it is something that has affected your relationship. God desires a bond between us that is free from the stain of sin.

As we leave the books of 1 and 2 Samuel to make our way into Kings, we want to remind ourselves that there is one more famine that the Bible speaks of: in Amos 8:11, we read, “’Behold, the days are coming,’ says the Lord God, ‘that I will send a famine on the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the word of the Lord.’” This seems to be even more possible now than ever before, as we take into consideration how much wickedness there is in the world. Be sure that you are committing scripture to memory. It will be not unlike storing away food for your body to use in a time of need. You never know when it might be the only word of God that you will have.

GOD HAS A PLAN

February 14, 2021

Charles Billingsley

Have you ever faced a situation or crisis that seemed impossible to overcome? Can you share?

Over the past few weeks, we read through the first five books of the Old Testament, all written by Moses. This past week we transitioned from those books to being a sideline observer as the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land. They are now led by Joshua, who had taken over the leadership following the death of Moses. Joshua, faithful to the Lord God, is the perfect man to lead Israel’s fighting forces as they conquer the territories God had long before promised to Abraham and his seed. By the time Israel is ready to fight Jericho, the surrounding tribes were so fearful that they had now sought sanctuary within Jericho’s walls. In the ensuing battle, the harlot, Rahab, helped Israel, aiding them in the name of their God. She later married Salmon, becoming the future grandmother of King David, whose line led to Jesus.

Focal Passage: Joshua 2, 6

God Has a Plan

• In the books of Moses, how long did Israel’s disobedience cause them to have to wander in the wilderness? What was the reason for their punishment?
• During those years of wandering, what were some of the miracles of God that took place?
• Why was forty years chosen as the length of time of their sojourn? At the end of that time, what happened?
• If you had been living in any of the surrounding territories, what would you have observed about these people? What does this period show about the character of God, that He would continue to manifest His love and care even when they had been very disobedient?
• What are some miracles we experience every day?

God Uses People You May Never Expect (Rahab)

• Read Joshua 2:1-7. How did Israel’s two spies meet Rahab in Jericho? Why did she promise them sanctuary?
• Read 2:8-9, 14. Why was Rahab willing to help the spies? Why were the spies willing to trust Rahab? Why did God not hold her lies against her?
• Read Matthew 1:5. Who did Rahab marry? Read James 2:25 and Hebrews 11:31. What title did she have in these two passages? How would you have felt, knowing that for centuries to come, all readers would know of your sinful past?

God Uses Ways You May Never Expect

• Read Joshua 6:2-5, 10. If you were in Jericho watching Israel’s maneuvers the first two or three days as they circled the city, what would you have thought would be the outcome of the battle? Why?
• Read 6:20, 22-25. In a normal scenario, what would have been the chances of Rahab and her family living through the destruction, with her house standing years later? Why wasn’t this normal?
• Read 2: 17-21. We touched on Rahab in a previous question, but what was her token of trust?
• What three times of significance does the color scarlet have for the Nation of Israel (and by extension, us) from Egypt to the Cross?

Close

            One of the common sayings that we’ve all heard on the authorship of the Bible is that only an Omnipotent God would have included so many situations, scarred people, or tales with unorthodox endings as are in the Scripture! Certainly, we have come upon many of them already.

            So much of what we read should comfort our souls as we walk this road of faith. To see the incredible care God took of Israel day after day, year after year, even as they spurned His laws and His plans, should bring us much comfort, as we, too, are so sinful. Yet He continues to shower us with blessings! And He has purposed plans for each one of us, as is written in Jeremiah 29:11, “I know the plans I have for you…to give you hope and a future.” Even knowing this verse, how often do we ignore His will?

            It is mind-boggling that God led them for forty years with a pillar of Cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night! Yet again we contrast our own lives and see He has given to us—His children in this new millennium—His own presence in the third person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, as He leads, convicts, comforts, and so much more.

            Take a few minutes this week and read the notes that go along with this sermon, for they are filled with facts of interesting information, and it is not possible to include all of it here. Above all, take the lessons to heart that are being pulled out from these passages every week, praising God for the insight He has given to our pastoral staff as they seek to lead us in a closer walk with God until the day He calls us home.

THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD
January 31, 2021
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Who is the most faithful friend that you’ve had for a very long time? What has made your friendship with them so special?

Open: 

Reading the Bible through sometimes means reading with concentration those books you normally gloss over or skip, doesn’t it? This past week, Numbers made dedicated reading a challenge, so today’s sermon will help bring some clarity and lucidity to passages, and probably pay dividends the rest of your life. In Numbers, we are shown many attributes of God as He interacts with Israel. His mercy, love, patience, goodness, provision, and many more qualities unfold as we journey through this beautiful book.

Focal Passage: Numbers 23.

Background

• • Until now, how had the people of Israel been acting after they had been saved from slavery and led toward the Promised Land? What miracles had they seen
  • Read Numbers 11:1. What were some of the things they had been complaining about as they were traveling?

Regardless of what others might say, if God is for you, who can be against you?

• • Read Num. 23:8. Can someone paraphrase the setting that has occurred since the 21st chapter? What do you think of Balaam and his actions in these chapters?
  • Had God not intervened, what do you think Balaam would have done? Have you—or someone you know well—been under attack, yet saved by an act of God? Can you share?

Regardless of our disobedience, God can always be trusted

• • Read Num. 23:19. How have you been able to minister to someone who feels they have strayed too far from God in their sin? What Scriptures did you use?
  • Read Hosea 14:1-2, 4. How does this passage illustrate the hope the backslider has in being reconciled to God?
  • Read Micah 7:18-19. How is it possible for us to have this confidence?

Regardless of the ugliness of our actions, God still sees beauty

• • Read Num. 24:5-6. What is the hardest truth for you to grasp that God still loves you unconditionally when you have sinned? Do you see yourself as “beautiful” in His sight? Why or why not?
  • Read Lamentations 3:22-23. How is the overwhelming beauty of God’s love for you evident in Jeremiah’s words in these verses?

Regardless of our past, God has secured our future

• • Read Num. 24:7-8. What did Balaam prophecy for Israel? What possibilities does God see when He looks at you?
  • Read 1 Peter 1:3-4. What does God give us when He saves us? What part of the promise is for us now, and what is for heaven?
  • Read Colossians 2:13-15. What did Christ do for you when you were saved? Will He take any of it back?

Close:

Were you able to see more clearly some of the attributes of God, as you read through these passages in Numbers? It is difficult for us who live in this world to grasp just how perfect He is, and also how incredibly much He loves us. By concentrating on His character qualities, we begin to understand that He has known us from eternity past, and desires to see us persevere until He calls us home. As we travel through the time we have on earth, we see the past decade bringing changes we never thought possible. It is imperative that we are solid in our beliefs of what God has done for us—and continues to do—as the teachings we hear in the world are filled more and more with apostasy. The Bible has to be our “fact checker” so that we do not believe what we read on social media. In fact, we need to take a stand when a post is false. Above all, let the word of God so permeate your being that it seeps into your dreams at night. You’ll wake with a sense of joy that His word is truly a lamp to your soul!

FROM THE DEPTHS…THERE IS GOOD
January 10, 2021
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

Can anyone share if there has been a time when you were wrongly accused of something? How did you handle it, and how did it make you feel?

Open:

During this past year, we have faced obstacles that have defied the experience of most of us. Now, the past six weeks has seen unsettled and horrifying times in America that even goes beyond the reach of Covid 19, and has caused thousands of Americans to ask if God still cares. As we look today at the life of Joseph, son of Jacob, we see the comforting truth that God will never leave His children, He cares for them and loves them. At the same time, He is holding all things in the universe together by His mighty power. Our God is awesome!

Key Verse: Genesis 50:20: “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good..”

Focal Passage: Genesis 39:1-2, 39:19-21, 50:20.

In the most difficult of moments, God is with you

• Read Genesis 39:2. What were some of the highs in Joseph’s life as he was growing up? What were some of the challenges he had faced prior to becoming a slave in Potiphar’s household?
• Can someone give an overview of Joseph’s years with Potiphar
• Based on what you know about the life of Joseph, how do you think he maintained an unswerving faith in God?
• Do you personally know anyone who has gone through as many times of tragedy, yet kept a faith in God that remained as strong?

When you are treated badly by others, God doesn’t abandon you

• Read Gen. 39:19b-21a. How did each of the three persons in this passage act? Could there have been deeper reasons that Potiphar reacted with fury? 
• Read 1 Corinthians 10:13. Joseph did not know this verse! How was he able to resist Potiphar’s wife?
• Had you been in the same set of circumstances as Joseph as he lived his life, do you think you would have given up on God? Why or why not?
• What would have been some of the natural reactions for a person in Joseph’s place? Where would such a strong faith come from?

God’s best should be our focus

• Read Gen. 39:23b. How did God reward Joseph during the two or more years that he was in the jail? What happened that could have defeated his spirit?
• Young Joseph seems to have had the same powerful faith that the David had in his younger years. Did this mean that neither man would face trials? What about Christians today: will we never have trials if we do right in a fallen world? Why or why not?
• Read Hebrews 13:5b. What is God’s promise here? Will His promises remain for us all of our days?

Close:

Sometimes we may think that life cannot get much worse—then another week goes by! We realize Satan is not about to leave any stone unturned that will bring disruption to our land if he can help it. So it has been again. Hopefully, what trials do is push us closer to God! He is with us, loving us, caring for our needs, and His arms are open as we run to Him. He will never leave us.

Joseph was a young man who seemed to have one trial after another, none of which were the fault of him living a riotous life. He seemed to come through each testing with an even more godly spirit. Yet who of us would have wanted to be Joseph? Did reading of his life put your life in perspective? No one in their right mind would have wanted to trade places with him.

His life, the challenges and the mountaintops, are so much more than most of us will ever experience. Although we might disagree with his telling his family that he had dreamed they would one day all bow down to him, we can’t find any time when he let sin rule in his spirit. And God used him time and again in mighty ways. What a great example of persevering he is!

What about you? Can you examine your heart in honesty, and see if you would have had the faith to have stood firm when everything around you shouted that God had left you on your own? Joseph never wavered in his faith in God. He could say as David wrote in Psalm 17:3, “You have tested my heart; You have visited me in the night; You have tried me and have found nothing; I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.” Would that we could all have the faith of Joseph.

 A FRESH START
January 03, 2021
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

When you were young, did you ever disobey, then hid from your mom or dad (or authority figure)? Can you share?

Open:

This new year, many—if not most—people are hoping for positive things to happen: a life without masks, or social distancing, able to go to movies and family dinners, and so much more. As 2021 begins to settle in, there are going to be days that will be wonderful, but there will also be days that will be really tough. The Bible has guidelines that will help us keep our focus on God as we seek to see an increase in the good days as well as the faith to make it through the hard times. As we begin this fresh start of 2021, we all need hope that this will be a year of positive changes.

Focal Passage: Genesis 3:1-26, 8:21-22.

What are you hiding from?

• Read Genesis 3:8-10. Why would God’s word tell us that Adam and Eve “heard” the sound of God walking in the garden? What are some examples of times you relied on hearing someone coming, rather than watching for them?
• Why did God ask Adam where he was? How did Adam’s answer reveal his state of disobedience? What was Adam “afraid” of?
• In the opening Ice Breaker, why did you hide from a parent (or authority figure)? Why do we try to hide from God? Does it work?

Stop playing the “blame game”

• Read Gen. 3:11-13. How did Adam reply to God? Why is it possible to get a sense of disrespect from him here? If this were your child replying, what attitude would you pick up on?
• How did Eve answer? Why was her excuse of blaming the serpent no different than Adam blaming his wife?
• Why is it possible that Eve was near the tree when Satan approached her? We have a tendency to attribute to him a silky, sexy tone but how might Satan have questioned Eve?
• How does he work today, when he tries to make us doubt God’s word? Why does he desire to cause us to sin?

God has promised His presence..and His power

• Gen. 3:14-15 show us the punishment God gave the serpent, Eve, and Adam. What was Eve’s punishment? What was the hidden blessing in her curse? What about Adam’s curse and blessing?
• Read Gen. 8:21-22. Later, God made these statements. What is the promise that is still good in our generation of “global warming”?
• Read Psalm 139:7. What did David realize about the presence of God? Is this the same promise we have in Hebrews 13:5?  

Close:  

The past nine months have been very difficult, haven’t they? At present, 2021 is just a change in the last digit of the year, not a guarantee that the next twelve months are going to immediately go back to a state of pre-Covid normalcy. The past week has seen a surge of hope that this new year will have a greater potential for days that are good, and it seems everyone is bursting with that hope.

Ultimately, though, there is really only one way we can have a true Fresh Start, isn’t there? The imagery the Bible uses is in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where the apostle Paul says we—i.e., any person who is alive—can be a brand new creature in God’s sight: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things have become new.” That is truly a new beginning, a time when we have laid down our old life, and taken on a new life that will be lived to the glory of God.

We will continue to have both wonderful days, as well as tough ones. But when the world throws its barbs at us, hoping to cripple us, we can look internally and see new desires, new hope, new joy, peace, and so much more and know within ourselves that the proof of the existence of God is a life that is completely changed. The rest of our lives can be lived with the closeness of a Father who is greater than anything we’ve ever known. He came as a baby to the manger, and went as a sacrificed Lamb to the cross, just to pay the penalty for our sins that we should have paid. That gives us new direction! Our sins—every one we would ever commit in life—were hung on the cross! He will never let us out of His hand. That is the best start for any person there could ever be.

If you’ve never bowed down and called on His name, do so while this year is still beginning. What a marvelous thing, to have a true fresh start in your heart.

A THRILL OF HOPE: HOPE FOR THE HEART
December 20, 2020
Pastor Jonathan Falwell

What is the greatest pain you have ever endured? Why do you still remember it today?

Open:

We continue our series “A Thrill of Hope” today, as we remind ourselves what Jesus Christ did to provide us with a hope that is certain, what He is still doing, and how He will bring us home to Himself when life is ended. We know we continue to sin while we are in these bodies, but nothing can take us out of His hand if we repent and seek His forgiveness. Today we look at the restored fellowship we can have with Him when we think we may have no hope left.

Key Verse: Isaiah 9:6-7a: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end.”

Focal Passages: Psalm 6:2-3, 31:24, 51:17; Eph. 2:4-5; 1 Pet. 1:3-5; Rom. 8:35-39.

There is no pain too great

• Read Psalm 6:2a. David had just experienced a season of sin with Bathsheba; what is his cry before God? How does he see himself?
• What did he need to hear from God? How can emotional pain paralyze us?
• What kind of experience have you gone through where you feel that everything has fallen apart after a season of sin (share if you can)?

There is no grip too strong

• Read Psalm 6:2b. What is the difference between the first phrase he prayed, and this one? How does it seem as though his pain was escalating? How would you infer he was suffering both physically as well as mentally?
• Bathsheba’s presence as a wife could only remind David of the depth of sin he had committed before God; do you think he felt that his sin had too much of a grip on him for God to forgive?
• Read Romans 8:38-39. We have this testimony to assure us that no one is exempt from God’s forgiveness. How can one be certain of salvation like this?

There is no journey too far

• Read Psalm 6:3a. Where has David now found trouble? What do the three areas he’s mentioned represent?
• How does he end this verse? What are some endings he could have used to close the thought?  
• Read Ephesians 2:4-5. What assurance does Paul give us in this passage? Read 1 Peter 1:3-5. What protects and keeps us?

Close:

The pain we bring on ourselves when we intentionally sin can be excruciating. Many of us can recall a time when we were in a self-inflicted season of sin. It brings such shame and pain in the years afterward that we can only cry out, “God, great is Your faithfulness, Your mercy and Your compassion, that you would take a lowly sinner and restore him to have fellowship with You!” We have to get to the place in our faith that we know we have been cleansed from the filth of the sin, so Satan is not able to throw it back into our face and destroy our peace.

           David knew the ultimate pain as he prayed for God’s mercy to cover him. In Psalm 51, another of his Psalms written after the season of sin with Bathsheba, he begs God to restore to him the glory of God’s salvation, and in the end prays that God will allow him to comfort others who may be caught in the web of sin, and sinners be converted to God. Have you prayed to be used like this?

  How fortunate that we have the Bible and can read the Word of God! We know the history of the cross that Jesus was sacrificed upon, and we know from witnesses in the Scripture that He conquered death and rose to life again! David did not have these marvelous truths. He did not know a man named John would write, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9). How blessed we are.

Whatever the pain we have caused ourself, whatever the distance we have gotten away from God, if we repent and cry out for His mercy He will gather us to Himself and restore the relationship. It is incredible to have a Father like that, isn’t it? Nothing can ever be compared to the wonder of being God’s child, being loved and cared for. It should give us tremendous thankfulness, love, and peace that our God is everything we need. We have a Savior who paid for all our sins, continues to hold us in His hand, and will keep us to spend eternal life with Him. That is a sure Hope that should thrill our soul and heart every day.