Community Message - Mead, Degerness, Rogers

Growing in Our Walk with Jesus

Community

May 19, 2019

Mead, Degerness, Rogers

 

I.          Hospitality

A.        Christian hospitality looks different than secular hospitality

Deuteronomy 10:19 Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. (Romans 12)

Matthew 25:34-39 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’

B.        Applied Hospitality

 

II.         Fellowship

 

Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.

 

“One man is nobody; nor will poring upon a book in a corner accomplish a man as the reading and studying of men will. Wise and profitable discourse sharpens men's wits; and those that have ever so much knowledge may by conference have something added to them.” - Matthew Henry

 

A.        Fellowship with one another builds us up

 

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? 12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

 

1 Corinthians 12:26

26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

 

Making and growing disciples happens in community

 

Acts 2:44-47

 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,

47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

 

III.        Isolation

 

Genesis 2:18 Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”

 

Proverbs 18:1 A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment.

 

Wise Judgement = Tuwshiyah – all wisdom, sound knowledge, or

abiding success (which is the result of wisdom)

 

2 Timothy 4:4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.

 

IV.       Purpose in Community

 

There’s a reason why we don’t instantly make our way into heaven the minute we receive salvation. Because God has purpose for us.

 

Philippians 1:20 as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22 If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell.

 

A.        For it is in giving when we receive the most.

 

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

 

Romans 14:7 For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself.

 

All we do is for the glory of God.

 

“He who loves his life will lose it but he who forsakes his life for my sake will find it.” – Jesus

 

John 13:34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Mother's Day - Sarah Jean Hood

Mothers Day Video.png

Happy Mother’s Day

May 12, 2019

Sarah Jean Hood

 

When you think of a mom- what do you think of?

-comfort

-encouragement

-the lynchpin that brings the family together

-Hospitality

-preparing those environments where we can connect together on a

heart level

-Moms are connecters & gatherers

 

I.          Mothers represent the heart of community

 

Moms are a very important part of our society.  The idea of the matriarch, the center of the family world, is so powerful that even Jesus referred to Himself as a hen gathering chicks, to protect and guide His family

 

“How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!”

- Matthew 23:37b

 

Proverbs 31:26-29

26She opens her mouth with wisdom,

and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

27She looks well to the ways of her household

and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28Her children rise up and call her blessed;

her husband also, and he praises her:

29“Many women have done excellently,

but you surpass them all.”

 

II.         Community and the importance of community in the bible.

 

Hebrews 10:24-25

24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!

 

1 PETER 4:8-11

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies--in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.

 

Ephesians 4:15-16

15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

 

Acts 2:42-47

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

John Lloyd - Prayer

Growing in Our Walk with Jesus

Selected Scriptures

May 5, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

 

Devoting attention to our walk with God is important and should be a priority. How is it going?  How could it improve?  Our relationship with God is first. Our relationships with other Christians are second. Our daily pouring out the love and resources of God to those outside our door is third. Hope you can join us as we explore how to be a fruitful follower of Jesus.

 

Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

 

Mark 1:35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.

 

2 Thessalonians 1:11To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power

 

Ephesians 6:18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,

 

 “Prayer—secret, fervent, believing prayer—lies at the root of all personal godliness.”  William Carey Missionary to India

 

Big Idea:  Prayer changes me!

 

“Prayer is the central avenue God uses to transform us.  If we are unwilling to change, we will abandon prayer as a noticeable characteristic of our lives.”  Richard Foster

 

How can we do this as well?  How can we live this way in the restlessness of our current society?  How can I make space for God in my life?

I.              Praying is ______________ out to God.

 

Psalm 61:1 Hear my cry, O God, listen to my prayer;  2 from the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is overwhelmed.  Lead me to the rock that is higher than I,

 

Psalm 22:1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?  Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.

 

Psalm 77:1-2 I cry aloud to God, aloud to God, and he will hear me. 2 In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord; in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying; my soul refuses to be comforted. Psalm 86:1

 

I John 4:18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

 

Expressing our feelings and fears to God is an avenue for us to experience his unconditional love.  Prayer changes me!

 

II.            Praying is a continual ______________________ with God.

 

I Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always, 17pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 

Prayer versus prayerfulness

 

2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord,

 

2 Thessalonians 1:11To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power,  Romans 1:9

 

Take Away:  Present your whole thoughts to God both good and bad.  Ask him for help!  Cry out to Him. It is not so much what we think but who are we presenting our thoughts to.  God knows our minds and hearts without anything being hidden. 

William Temple noted that coincidences occurred much more frequently when he prayed.

 

Prayer changes how I handle people and situations.

Prayer is how God changes me!

 

III.          Prayer is ____________________ and __________________.

 

I Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice always, 17pray without ceasing, 18give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

 

Luke 18:13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’

 

I Kings 19:12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. 

 

Question is not should I pray, but when should I pray.

 

Matthew 6:6. Go to your private room, shut the door, and so pray to the Father who is in that secret place.

 

Jesus chose to climb a mountain, enter a garden, depart to the desert, or rest in a boat on the water to pray and listen to God.  Choose a place!

 

What do we do while prayer? 

Be with Jesus

Find a focus: gospel text for the day, sing a psalm or pick a verse of scripture and read it slowly. 

Expect distractions: smile at them, let them pass, return to your focus.

Write down things to be thankful for. 

Write down prayer requests and prayers. 

Give praise to God for answered prayers.

 

Colossians 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.      Prayer Changes ME!

 

What time, place and focus for prayer will you commit to this week?

Spiritual Growth Questions for May 5, 2019

 

Opener:  Share about an experience of answered prayer.

 

1.   Read Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, 22.  Why should prayer be not just asking, but listening?  Why is it so hard to make time to listen to God?

 

 

2.   Read Psalm 22:1-2, 77:1-2 and Psalm 139:1-4.  Observe and circle key words in these verses.   What did these verses mean to the original audience?  Paraphrase them in your own words.  What is the psalmist teaching us about expressing our real thoughts to God?  How can it help us to know that God wants us to express these thoughts to Him through prayer? 

 

3.   What parts of your life are you tempted to hide from God? What thoughts could you offer to God right now?  Stop and take a moment and offer them to God as a conversational prayer.

 

4.   Read Luke 18:9-14.  Observe and circle key words in these verses.   What did these verses mean to the original audience?  Paraphrase them in your own words.  How could this passage be applied to your life?  How can it be applied to those you minister to?

 

 

5.   Read Matthew 6:5-14.  Observe and circle key words in these verses.   What did these verses mean to the original audience?  Paraphrase them in your own words.  How could this passage be applied to your life?  How can it be applied to those you minister to?

 

 

AssignmentWhat time, place and focus for prayer will you commit to this week?  Share your plan with a friend.

John Lloyd - Abiding With God

Growing in Our Walk with Jesus

Matthew 22:37-39

April 28, 2019

Pastor John Lloyd

 

Devoting attention to our walk with God is important and should be a priority. How is it going?  How could it improve?  First is our relationship with God. Second is our relationships with other Christians. Third is daily pouring out the love and resources of God to those outside our door. Hope you can join us for the next six weeks as we explore how to be a fruitful follower of Jesus.

 

Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38This is the great and first commandment. 39And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

 

Psalm 42:1 As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.

 

John 8:31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

 

John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

 

“The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deeper people.”  Richard Foster

 

“Discipleship means living a fully human life in this world in union with Jesus Christ and His people, growing in conformity to His image, and helping others to know and become like Jesus.”  Mike Wilkins

 

I.               Strong relationships with God begin with ______________.

 

Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

Psalm 42:1 As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. 2 My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.  Psalm 63:1

 

Matthew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

 

Reflective questions:  What is it that is ruling my life?  Is the ruler of my life keeping you from God?  How is my walk with God? 

 

John 4:14 “But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again.  The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

 

A.   _____________ from destructive habits does not come by willpower.

 

Colossians 2:23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh. Colossians 2:21-22

 

Romans 7:23 But I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. 24 Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?

 

“As soon as you resist mentally any undesirable or unwanted circumstance, you thereby endow it with more power- power which it will use against you and you will have depleted your own resources to at exact extent.”  Fox

 

“As long as we think we can save ourselves by our own willpower, we will only make the evil in us stronger than ever.”  Heini Arnold

 

Declaration:  God I cannot save myself! I need your Spirit’s help in my life!  I will put my life in a place where God can change me from the inside out.

 

B.   Place my life in the soil of Jesus by ________________ in Christ.

 

Romans 5:17 For if, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ.

 

John 8:31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”   (Hebrews 12:15) “Being bitter is a harder path than being filled with grace and joy.” 

 

Commitment: Placing myself in God’s soil will allow Him to work His life and deliverance in my soul.

 

II.             Learn to detach from this world and ________ to God’s kingdom.

 

John 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

 

Psalm 1:2 but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night.  3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

 

Some suggestions:  1. Slow down 2. Conviction of its importance. 3. Quiet place, no distractions.   4. Start with 5 to 10 minutes. 5. Read Luke 2:19 take one Scripture treasure it… ponder it in your heart.  6. Write down the scripture and try it for 3 times one day… Live with your chosen text for the day.  Murmur it. Memorize it. Pray it. Say it. Share it.

 

Reflective question:  What is it that keeps me from strengthening my relationship with Jesus?   Repent and believe….  Call it out, call upon!

 

“Only to sit and think of God, Oh what a joy it is!

To think the thought, to breathe the name Earth has no higher bliss.”  Frederick Faber

 

Matthew 22:37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.

 

 

Spiritual Growth Questions for April 28, 2019

 

Opener: Describe a time of spiritual growth in your life?  What stands out as causes of this growth.

 

1.   Read John 15:1-5 three times slowly.  Circle words you see as important.  What was Jesus trying to get across to the disciples?  Write the passage in your own words.   What application can you make in your own life?  What things does God want you to change or do?_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

2.   Read the following Scriptures and note what they teach about discipleship:  Luke 2:52 __________________________________

Luke 6:40_____________________________________________

Galatians 4:19 _________________________________________

2 Corinthians 3:18 ______________________________________

Romans 8:29 __________________________________________

From these passages, what is God’s plan or goal for your life?

 

3.   Eastern meditation is an attempt to empty the mind.  Christian meditation is an attempt to empty the mind in order to fill it.  Two ideas are radically different.  It’s not just detachment, but attachment.  Read the following Scriptures and discuss the value of meditating on the Word of God.

Read Psalm 1:2, 63:6, 119:148, Joshua 1:8. Discuss what each verse says about meditating upon God’s Word.  What steps can you take to strengthen your walk with God?  Ask a friend to pray with you.

 

Four types of fruit

1. Spiritual fruit of Christlike love: John 15:9.          

2. Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith

3. Fruit of spiritual gift: Ephesians 4:12.

4. Fruit of new disciples: John 15:16.

 

4.   Read John 15:8-9. What is your strongest area of “fruit” production?  What is your weakest area of “fruit” production? What can you do to improve your weak area? 

Easter Sunday

Because Jesus Lives:  It Changes Everything

Selected Scriptures

Pastor John Lloyd

April 21, 2019  Resurrection Sunday

 

Luke 24: 44Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” 45Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, 46and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, 47and that repentance and  forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name

 

John 14:19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.

 

John 11:25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life.  Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”



Big Idea:   Because Jesus lives, it changes everything!

 

I.              Why we ________________ Jesus lives.

 

Ephesians 1:18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, 19and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might.  Luke 24:44-47 I Cor. 15:13

 

“If Jesus rose from the dead, then you have to accept all that he said: if he didn’t rise from the dead, then why worry about any of what he said?  The issue on which everything hangs is not whether or not you like his teaching but whether or not he rose from the dead.”  Tim Keller

 

1.   Jesus’ appearances  I Corinthians 15:5-8

2.   The changes in the disciples lives  (They became willing to die) (Acts 5:28-30)

3.   The empty tomb  (Matthew 28:6-7)

4.   Early proclamation of the Message.  (Acts 2:22-32)

5.   Conversion of James. (John 7:5, Acts 1:3, 15:13)

6.   Conversion of Paul.  (Acts 9:4-5)

7.   Changed lives here today!

 

Prayer:  Lord please open my mind and soul to understand what you have done, what you are doing, and what you would like to do in my life.

 

II.            Because He lives, supernatural ________________ are available.

 

John 16:33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation.  But take heart; I have overcome the world.

 

Romans 8:11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus [4] from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

 

Ephesians 3:16 that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being,

 

Philippians 3:10 that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings,

 

Power over sinful destructive habits (Romans 6:6 &11)

Power to love anyone, even enemies (Romans 5:5, Matthew 5:44)

Power to pray with power (Romans 8:26)

Power to give new life (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Power to forgive (Luke 23:34, Ephesians 4:32)

Power to be restored (John 21:17)

 

“But resurrection is not just consolation-it is restoration.  We get I all back-the love, the loved ones, the good, the beauties of this life—but in new, unimaginable degrees of glory and joy and strength.” Keller

 

III.          Because He lives,  ____________ is conquered.

 

 

Hebrews 2:14 Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, (2 Tim.1:10)

I Corinthians 15:54 When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” 55 “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.

 

“The resurrection of Jesus changes the face of death for all his people.  Death is no longer a prison, but a passage into God’s presence.  Easter says you put truth in a grave, but it won’t stay there. You can nail it to a cross, wrap it in winding sheets and shut it up in a tomb, but it will rise.” Clarence Hall. (Isaiah 25:8, Psalm 16:10)

 

Matthew 28:6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said.

 

John 11:25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”  Philippians 3:10 That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings becoming like him in his death,

 

Reflection:  What do I believe about the resurrection?  Where do I need resurrection power in my life?  Am I willing to yield control of my life to Jesus?

 

IV.           Because He lives, I must __________ this good news with others.

 

John 9:25 He answered, “Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.”

 

John 12:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit..

 

Romans 10:9 Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

 

John 11:27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.”

 

Because He lives, any life can be transformed!

 

More Resurrection Passages for reflection this week:

 

Romans 6:4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

 

I Corinthians 15:42 So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable.

 

Acts 4:33 And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all.

 

Job 19:25 For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth. 26 And after my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God,

 

Romans 4:25 Who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.

 

Hebrews 12:2 Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

 

Romans 1:4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,

 

2 Corinthians 1:21 And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, 22 and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. 

 

Revelation 1:17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, 18 and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades

The Faithfulness of God / Prophecies of Christ

The Greatness of God and His Faithfulness

Selected Passages

Pastor John Lloyd

Sean Degerness, Rodrigo Burgos, Evan Rogers

April 7, 2019

 

Can I trust God with my life?  How do I know His Word is true?  Can I trust His Word for my life and situation?  How do I know Jesus is the Messiah? Today, our team will demonstrate the faithfulness of God to fulfill His promises about His Son Jesus.  God is faithful!

 

Psalm 33:4 For the Word of the Lord is upright, And all His work is done in faithfulness.

Psalm 91:4 He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.

Psalm 119:90  Your faithfulness continues through all generations.

2 Timothy 2:13 if we are faithless, he remains faithful— for he cannot deny himself.

Lamentations 3:23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

 

Big Idea: God fulfills His promises!   Remembering His past faithfulness brings strength for the present and hope for the future.



I.              God faithfully fulfilled his promises about the _________________ and ____________ of Jesus. 

 

Genesis 17:7 And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. (fulfilled in Luke 1:33-34)

 

Jeremiah 23:5 “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land.”

 

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. (fulfilled in Matthew 1:21-23)

 

Micah 5:2   But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. (fulfilled in Matthew 2:6)

 

I remember God’s faithfulness to send the promised Messiah.

 

II.            God fulfilled His promises about the __________ and ________________ of Jesus.

 

Zechariah 11: 12Then I said to them, “If it seems good to you, give me my wages; but if not, keep them.” And they weighed out as my wages thirty pieces of silver. 13 Then the LORD said to me, “Throw it to the potter”—the lordly price at which I was priced by them. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the LORD, to the potter. (fulfilled in Matthew 27:7-10)

 

Psalm 41:9  Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.  (fulfilled in John 13:28-30)

 

Isaiah 49:7 Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers: “Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall prostrate themselves; because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.”

 

Psalm 118:22  The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. (Jesus shared it again Luke 20:17-18, fulfilled in Acts 4:11)

 

I remember God’s faithfulness to Jesus in his most difficult times.  Jesus will help me through my difficulties.

 

III.           God fulfilled His promises in the ____________ of Jesus.

 

Isaiah 53:7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter. (fulfilled in Mt.26:63)

 

Micah 5:1  Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops; siege is laid against us; with a rod they strike the judge of Israel on the cheek.

Isaiah 50:6  I gave my back to those who strike, and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard; I hid not my face from disgrace and spitting. (fulfilled in Matthew 26:67)

 

Psalm 22:6 But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by mankind and despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads; (fulfilled in Matthew 27;39-43)

 

Psalm 22:18 They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. (fulfilled in Matthew 27:35)

 

Psalm 69:21  They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink. (Matthew 27:34 & 48)

 

Psalm 34:20  He keeps all his bones;  not one of them is broken. (fulfilled in John 19:33)

 

Zechariah 12:10  “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and pleas for mercy, so that, when they look on me, on him whom they have pierced, they shall mourn for him, as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn.  (John 19:37)

 

I remember God’s faithfulness in the smallest details of our Savior’s death.  Jesus knows what I need and will provide strength and grace.

 

Numbers 23:19 God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?

 

Psalm 91:4 He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. 2 Tim.2:13

 

Lamentations 3:23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

 

Remember God is faithful!

 

 

Spiritual Growth Questions for week of April 7, 2019

 

Opener:  What is the most trustworthy possession you have ever owned? 

 

1.   What helps you to logically understand the Bible's truths? Is it science? Is it historical records?"

 

2.   Read the genealogy/bloodline of Jesus in Matthew 1:1-17.  How do you see God’s faithfulness in this genealogy?  Who in particular stands out as an example of God’s faithfulness?

 

3.   Read Micah 5:2 and Matthew 2:6. Consider that Micah wrote this at least seven hundred years before the birth of Christ.  Read Acts 17:26-27.  What does this say about God’s providence in reference to where we are living right now?  How does that encourage you?

 

4.   Read Zechariah 11:12-13 and Psalm 41:9.  What do the verses teach about the betrayal of Jesus?  Read John 15:20.  What does Jesus teach about betrayal?  How was God faithful to Jesus through the trial of betrayal?  What helps you when you have walked through a deep trial like betrayal?

 

5.   Read Isaiah 50:6, Psalm 22:5 &18 and Psalm 34:20.  What was prophesied in each one of these verses?  What stands out to you about these prophecies?

 

6.   Read Matthew 27:34-43 &48.  Why are the details of Jesus’ suffering so important for our faith?  How do they demonstrate God’s faithfulness to us? 

 

7.   Ask God to prepare your heart for these next two weeks as we celebrate the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.

 

Memory Verses: Lamentations 3:23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

John Lloyd - Renewed Strength

The Greatness of God:  A Study of Isaiah 40

Renewed Strength from our Great God

Pastor John Lloyd

March 31, 2019

 

The name Isaiah literally means ‘the Lord saves.’  He saves us for eternity and helps us with our daily challenges.  Our passage today gives us a view of our God who never gets weary or faint.  He is ready to renew the strength of any weary follower who comes to Him. 

 

Passage:  Isaiah 40:27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the LORD, and my right is disregarded by my God”? 28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable. 29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. 30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted;  31 but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

 

Big Idea: My emptiness or weariness is an opportunity to be filled with the fullness and strength of God.    



I.               The trials of this life bring ________________ and ___________________.

 

Isaiah 40:27 Why do you say, O Jacob, and speak, O Israel, “My way is hidden from the LORD, and my right is disregarded by my God”?

 

Disregarded passed over, to be alienated

 

Isaiah 40:30 Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted. 

 

“By what means Satan first drew mankind from the obedience of God, the Scripture doth witness: To wit, by pouring into their hearts that poison, that God did not love them.” John Knox

2 Corinthians 1:8 For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself.

 

Jeremiah 12:1 Righteous are you, O Lord, when I complain to you;

yet I would plead my case before you. Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all who are treacherous thrive?

 

Ezekiel 37:11Then he said to me, “Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel. Behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are indeed cut off.’

 

Declaration:  As long as I live on this earth, I am no match for the demands of this life.

Commitment:  I will seek God when I’m weary, faint or tired.

 

II.            My faith is rooted in the __________________ of our God.

 

Isaiah 40:28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.

 

A.    God is _____________________.

B.    God is the ______________ of everything.

C.   God does not get __________.

D.   God _____________________ my situation.

 

God does not suffer setbacks, and he helps those who do.  ESV Study Bible

 

“The wrong inference would be that God is too great to care, the right one He is too great to fail,” D.A. Carson.  Colossians 2:6-8

 

I John 3:2 Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.

 

Declaration:  I know God understands and cares for me.

Commitment:  I will humbly accept that I am a beloved child of God.

Prayer:  Lead me to walk with someone who is weary. 

III.          Trusting God’s promises gives ____________ for endurance.

 

Isaiah 40:29 He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength

 

no might … increaseth strength—a seeming paradox. They “have no might” in themselves; but in Him they have strength, and He “increases” that strength (2 Co 12:9).

 

Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.  Exodus 19:4

 

Wait –  to live in confident, eager suspense. It means to live with the tension of promises revealed but not yet fulfilled.  It is waiting on tip-toe, waiting with eager longing.

 

The phrase renew their strength (31) is (lit.) ‘change strength’, as one might change into fresh clothes or exchange an old thing for a new.

 

Philippians 3:13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

 

“I can plod,” said William Carey, the father of modern missions. “That is my only genius. I can persevere in any definite pursuit. To this I owe everything.”  2 Corinthians 4:16, Philippians 1:20

 

Hebrews 11:32 And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— 33 who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, 34 quenched the power of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, were made strong out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight.  Hebrews 11:35-38

Hebrews 11:39 And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised,

 

Declaration:  God can bring strength to my soul in the midst of weariness.

Commitment:  I will live in expectation of God to renew my strength.

Spiritual Growth Questions for week of March 31, 2019

 

1.   Read Isaiah 40:27-31.  Read it slowly several times.  Ask God to speak to you through this passage.  What verse stood out?  Why?

 

2.   Read Isaiah 40:27.  Why was life so hard for the people of Judah?  Why do you think life is difficult on this earth for believers?  What is draining your strength at this time?

 

3.   Read Isaiah 40:28.  Isaiah shares four things about who God is and what He is like.  What are they?  How can each one of them bring strength to our hearts? Who could you encourage with these truths?

 

4.   Read Colossians 2:6-10.  How does Paul hope the Colossian’s faith will be?  What concerns him about their walk?  What does he tell them to do?

 

5.   Read Isaiah 40:30, 2 Corinthians 1:8-9.  What principle can you take away from these verses about natural strength?  Read 2 Corinthians 1:8-9.  Why does Paul share his personal struggles with the Corinthians?  How does this encourage you in your situation?

 

6.   Read Isaiah 40:29 & 31.  What is God able to do?  What does it mean to “wait” on the Lord?  What is one thing you can commit to doing this week to wait on the Lord?  Share it with a friend.

 

Memory Verse: Isaiah 40:31 But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

Chuck Wysong - The Most Encouraging Chapter In The Bible

THE MOST ENCOURAGING CHAPTER IN THE BIBLE

Romans 8

Chuck Wysong

March 24, 2019

 

5 Encouraging statements in Romans 8

 

1.     There is NO CONDEMNATION..

 

“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

 

Paul’s key phrase to describe Christians - “In Christ Jesus” 164 times in the NT

 

“God did not send his son into the world to condemn it, but to save the world through him.” John 3:17

 

2. There is NO LIMITATION.

“Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.”

Romans 8:5-6 NLT

 

 

The Key to Victory in your Life - is YOUR MIND.

 

“The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”

Romans 8:11 NLT

 

3. There is NO DESPERATION.

 

You can rely on hope if you do 3 things..

 

•    You rely on God’s Promise

 

“Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.” Romans 8:18 NLT

 

•    You can rely on God’s prayers.

 

“And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.”

Romans 8:26 NLT

 

•            You can rely on God’s Purposes.

 

 And we know that in all things, he doesn't say for all things, he says in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose . Romans 8:28.                                                                                                                                                         

 

4. There is  NO INTIMIDATION.

““What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.” Romans 8:31-34 NLT

 

 

5. There is NO SEPARATION.

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:35

 

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:37-39

John Lloyd - No Comparison

The Greatness of God:  A Study of Isaiah 40

No Comparisons:  God is Greater

Pastor John Lloyd

March 17, 2019

 

The name Isaiah literally means ‘the Lord saves.’  He saves us for eternity and helps us with our daily challenges.  Our passage today gives us a view of God from His viewpoint.  As we see Him from this viewpoint, it changes everything!  God’s wisdom and power are greater than all my possessions.   Nothing on this earth can compare to God and the blessings He brings to his children.

 

Passage:  Isaiah 40:12-26

 

Big Idea:  Help me view God and my life from His viewpoint. 



Declarations about God’s greatness:

 

I.                God’s ______________ is greater than mine.

 

Isaiah 40:12 Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand and marked off the heavens with a span, enclosed the dust of the earth in a measure  and weighed the mountains in scales and the hills in a balance?  13 Who has measured the Spirit of the LORD, or what man shows him his counsel? 14 Whom did he consult, and who made him understand? Who taught him the path of justice, and taught him knowledge, and showed him the way of understanding?

 

Erwin Lutzer “Has it ever occurred to you that nothing has ever occurred to God?”  God has never learned anything, and he never will.  So no human being can teach God a thing. 

 

Romans 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

 

Proverbs 8:10 Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold, 11 for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.  James 1:5

 

God’s footsteps cannot be tracked by human reason- man cannot follow his train of thought. 

 

My declaration to God: I need your wisdom in my life.

My commitment to God:  I will seek your wisdom daily.

 

II.             God is greater than the __________________ nations and rulers.

 

Isaiah 40:15 Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.16 Lebanon would not suffice for fuel, nor are its beasts enough for a burnt offering. 17 All the nations are as nothing before him, they are accounted by him as less than nothing and emptiness.

 

Isaiah 40:22 It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in; 23 who brings princes to nothing, and makes the rulers of the earth as emptiness. 24 Scarcely are they planted, scarcely sown, scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth, when he blows on them, and they wither, and the tempest carries them off like stubble. (Isaiah 41:2, Job 12:21, Ps. 107:40)

 

Ps. 107:43:  Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.

 

Isaiah 41:10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

 

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God. 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

       My declaration: I trust and need the power of God.

My commitment:  I will ask for God’s help and power.

 

III.             God is greater than my most beautiful _____________________.

 

Isaiah 40:18 To whom then will you liken God, or what likeness compare with him? 19 An idol! A craftsman casts it, and a goldsmith overlays it with gold and casts for it silver chains. 20 He who is too impoverished for an offering chooses wood that will not rot; he seeks out a skillful craftsman to set up an idol that will not move.  (Acts 17:29)

 

Isaiah 46:2 They stoop; they bow down together; they cannot save the burden, but themselves go into captivity.  (Isaiah 46:3)

Isaiah 46:4 even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.  Isaiah 46:12-13

 

Psalm 24:1 The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein,

 

I Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.

 

I Corinthians 4:7 For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?

 

Declaration: God owns everything and I yield my possessions to Him.

Commitment:  I will be a steward, not owner, of what He’s given me.

 

IV.          God ____________ me and ___________ me with my challenges.

 

Isaiah 40:25 To whom then will you compare me, that I should be like him? says the Holy One.  26 Lift up your eyes on high and see: who created these?  He who brings out their host by number, calling them all by name, by the greatness of his might, and because he is strong in power not one is missing.

 

John 10:14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me,

 

Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.  4 He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names.

 

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

 

Declaration: I believe Jesus cares about me.  I ask Him to save me.

Commitment:  I will seek His healing and help for my challenges.

 

Spiritual Growth Questions for week of March 17, 2019

 

1.    Read Isaiah 40:12-26.  Read it slowly several times.  Ask God to speak to you through this passage.  What verse stood out?  Why?

 

2.   Read Isaiah 40:12-14.  What is the Lord saying through Isaiah to the people of Judah in captivity?  What is Isaiah teaching about the wisdom of God?  How does it break the hold of human wisdom? 

 

3.   Read Isaiah 40:15-17, 40:23-24.  What important truth is Isaiah sharing about powerful worldly leaders?  How could this be helpful for Christians suffering in North Korea, China and other persecuted countries?  How can seeing the world from God’s viewpoint help you? 

 

4.   Read Isaiah 40:18-22. Isaiah 46:1-7.  What is God’s viewpoint on our possessions and idols?  What does our culture teach about material possessions?  Ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart about this topic.  Share with someone what you are hearing. 

 

5.   Read Isaiah 40:25-26.  Psalm 147:1-12.  How is God greater than nature?  What is the psalmist response to the greatness of God?  What response is God looking for from our heart? 

 

6.   How can we be an example of a person who is awed by the greatness of our Lord? 

 

What helps us see God from His viewpoint?Who could you help this week see the greatness of the Lord?Ask for one thing you could do that would help.Commit to it and share next week how it went.

John Lloyd - The Glory of God Brings Comfort to The Shattered

The Greatness of God:  A Study of Isaiah 40

The Glory of God brings Comfort to the Shattered

Pastor John Lloyd

March 10, 2019

 

The name Isaiah literally means ‘the Lord saves.’  Isaiah 40 begins a major new section of the book with the central theme being a proclamation of the glory of God!  Isaiah brings his readers into the presence of the living God  with seeing a future day and declaring the gospel to His people who are in exile, “God has not abandoned you.  Your best days are ahead.  God has a purpose of grace for you better than ever.  He is coming to save you.  Believe it and let hope fill your sails.”  Ray Ortlund

 

Passage:  Isaiah 40:1Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. 2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins. 3 A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” 6 A voice says, “Cry!” And I said, “What shall I cry?” All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field. 7 The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the LORD blows on it; surely the people are grass. 8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever. 9 Go on up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news; lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah,  “Behold your God!”10 Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him. 11 He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.

 

Big Idea:  View God through my circumstances = small God.  View my circumstances through God = big God.  See His glory and feel His comfort! 

 

I.                Look at the glory of God’s work for ________________.

 

Isaiah 40:1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. 2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that her warfare is ended, that her iniquity is pardoned, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins.

 

A.    Our sins have been __________________ and paid for by Jesus.

 

Isaiah 59:2 but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.

 

Isaiah 53:10b When his soul makes an offering for guilt, …

Isaiah 53:11 my righteous servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.  John 1:29

 

Hebrews 10:14For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

 

Real comfort comes to hearts who welcome Jesus into their souls!

 

B.    God’s ____________ meets us wherever we are.

 

Isaiah 40:3 A voice cries: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain.” Psalm 139:7-8

 

John 14:16 And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Helper/Comforter to be with you forever.  Galatians 4:6

 

John 14:18. He will not leave you comfortless. 

 

Real comfort arrives when we glorify God in our circumstances.

 

II.             Acknowledging the temporary makes clearer the ______________ glory.

 

Isaiah 40:6 A voice says, “Cry!” And I said, “What shall I cry?” All flesh is grass, and all its beauty is like the flower of the field. 7 The grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the LORD blows on it; surely the people are grass. 8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.

James 4:14 Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.

 

Psalm 39:4 “O LORD, make me know my end and what is the measure of my days; let me know how fleeting I am!

 

Hold our suffering and success loosely and know our finiteness.                                     Hold onto God’s promises tenaciously and know His infiniteness.

 

III.            ___________ and ________________ God’s glory is our mission.

 

Isaiah 40:5 “And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

 

Isaiah 40:9 Go on up to a high mountain, O Zion, herald of good news; lift up your voice with strength, O Jerusalem, herald of good news; lift it up, fear not; say to the cities of Judah,  “Behold your God!”10 Behold, the Lord GOD comes with might, and his arm rules for him; behold, his reward is with him, and his recompense before him.

 

2 Corinthians 3:18 And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

 

Luke 2:9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.

 

John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

 

John 13:31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him.  I Corinthians 2:8

 

Isaiah 40:11 He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young

 

Welcome Jesus into our circumstances!                                         Help others welcome Jesus into their circumstances!

Spiritual Growth Questions for week of March 10, 2019

 

What in nature has revealed to you the greatness of God? 

 

1.    Read Isaiah 40:1-11.  Read it slowly several times.  Ask God to speak to you through this passage.  What verse stood out?  Why?

 

2.   How would meditating on God’s amazing attributes on display in this passage, help people go through times of suffering?

 

3.   Read Isaiah 40:1-2.  How does Isaiah comfort God’s people in exile?  How do these verses point directly to the cross of Jesus as the atonement for our sins?  How could God use this to comfort?

 

4.   Read Isaiah 40:3-4.  How did John the Baptist fulfill the predictions in this passage?  What brings comfort in these verses?  What do you hear God saying about your own present circumstances?

 

5.   Read Isaiah 40:5, Luke 2:9, John 1:14, John 13:31, 2 Corinthians 3:18.  How did Isaiah say His people will see his glory?  How do we see His glory?  What happens when we see his glory?

 

6.   Read I Corinthians 2:8. How do the rulers of this world miss his glory?  How do we miss it? 

 

7.   Read Isaiah 40:6-8, Matthew 24:35.  What is temporary in our lives and what is permanent?  Why is this so easy to forget?

 

8.   Read Isaiah 40:9-11, Titus 2:13, Revelation 21:23.  Discuss how God breathes new life into our souls through each one of these passages.  What would be your high mountain to declare His glory?

 

9.   What are some ways that help you view your present circumstances through God?  Invite a brother or sister in Christ to pray for you on your journey.  Join in praying for someone who needs the comfort of God in their lives.

 

Memory Verse:  Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.

 

John Lloyd - Our Need For God's Greatness

The Greatness of God:  A Study of Isaiah 40

Our Great Need is to see the Greatness of God

Pastor John Lloyd

March 3, 2019

 

The name Isaiah literally means ‘the Lord saves.’  Isaiah brings his readers into the presence of the living God.  As we experience the presence of God, He reveals both our own fallen nature and His great provision for our sins.  It is this awe-inspiring vision of God that captures our souls. If  immortal happiness is promised, how can I attain it?  If there is everlasting woe, how can I escape it?  Isaiah shares with us the God’s revelation and vision that helped him navigate through challenging times.  As we see the greatness of God through this study, may our souls experience a feast of refreshment in God.  May this refreshment strengthen us to be able to face anything that comes our way. 

 

Passage:  Isaiah 6:1-13

 

Why study Isaiah?  In terms of theological significance, the book of Isaiah is the ‘Romans’ of the Old Testament.  It shows the big picture of God’s purposes for His people and for his world.  Something of its importance can be gauged from the fact that it is quoted no fewer than sixty six times in the New Testament, being exceeded only by the book of Psalms (79x).  The New Testament moves to its climax by echoing Isaiah’s promise of death conquered, tears wiped away, and new heavens and new earth.  It was Isaiah who gave us the term ‘gospel.’  By far the greatest importance of this book, however, lies in the witness it bears to Jesus Christ.  Jesus quotes Isaiah 61;1-2 at the outset of his ministry in Luke 4:18-19.  If we want to understand fully who He is and what he came to do, we must read this book.  Barry Webb

 

What:  “The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concering Judah and Jerusalem during the days of Uzziah, Hothan, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, Isaiah 1:1  This book offers us a way of seeing.  God is offering a new perspective on everything.  Isaiah was a seer.  Open our eyes that we may see 2 Kings 6:17, Isaiah 2:5, 6:1.

 

Who:  Son of Amoz. Amoz was brother to Amaziah, King of Judah, putting Isaiah into the royal family. His Hebrew name means ‘The Lord Saves.’

When:  Between 742 BC and 681 BC.  Isaiah 1:1 The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

 

I.                Isaiah renews our vision of God’s __________________.

 

Isaiah 57:15 For thus says the One who is high and lifted up,  who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly,  and to revive the heart of the contrite.

 

Isaiah 66:2  All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the LORD. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.

 

Isaiah 40:22 It is he who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to dwell in; (Isaiah 40:15)

 

Lord give us a fresh vision of your power and greatness.

 

II.             Isaiah brings ______________ for man’s great need for God.

 

Isaiah 1:11 “What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices? says the LORD; I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed beasts; I do not delight in the blood of bulls, or of lambs, or of goats.

 

Isaiah 14:13  You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far reaches of the north; 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’ Is.29:13

 

Isaiah 6:5 And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” Isaiah 1:5-6, 53:6

 

Lord give us a fresh conviction of our great need for You.

 

III.             Isaiah ______________ Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.

 

Isaiah 6:1-3 In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” 

 

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. 

(See Isaiah 9:1-6, 11:1)  Our atonement,  Isaiah 53:9. 

Destroying death, Isaiah 25:7-8.  He will care for bruised reeds, 42:1-4.

 

Lord give us a fresh understanding of our Savior Jesus Christ.

 

IV.           Isaiah calls his readers to respond in humble ___________ and ____________________.

 

Isaiah 30:15 For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel,  “In returning and rest you shall be saved;  in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.”

 

Isaiah 53:1 Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?  Isaiah 64:6

 

Isaiah 57:15b  “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.

 

Isaiah 53:11b by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous, and he shall bear their iniquities.

 

Isaiah 49:6b  I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”

 

Isaiah 2:5 O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD.

To distant coastlands and furthest islands Isaiah 66:19

The nations will come to the heavenly Jerusalem.  Isaiah 60:5-9

 

Lord, we humbly ask you to make us a light

to both our neighbors and the world!

Spiritual Growth Questions for March 3, 2019

 

Opener:  Who is the greatest person on this earth you have met?         What did you learn about this person through this encounter?

 

1.    Read Isaiah 6:1-2.  Uzziah reigned for 52 years.  How does the stability of the reign of King Jesus on his throne give us confidence, even in times of political instability?  Isaiah says, “I saw the Lord on a high and lofty throne.”  How can we ‘see’ the Lord now by faith in his word?  How would such a spiritual vision fuel our worship?

 

2.   Read Isaiah 6:3. What is the significance of the fact that the seraphim are sinless yet they still covered their faces before Jesus?

What does holy mean?  Why would the seraphim say it three times? Why would you say holiness is an important attribute of God for us, as sinners, to embrace?  How does the cross reflect holiness? 

3.   Read Isaiah 6:4-5, Luke 5:8.  What effect did this awesome heavenly scene have on Isaiah?  Why is this humble awareness so important in our walk with God? 

 

4.   Read Isaiah 6:6-7.  How does the burning coal represent Christ?

5.   Read Isaiah 6:8. In what way is the call of Isaiah unique and in what way is it a pattern for all Christians to follow?

 

6.   Read Isaiah 6:9-10.  Do you find this passage difficult to swallow?  How can we understand the intentions of God in purposely hardening hearts and blinding eyes against spiritual truth?  How does that message relate to Christ’s use of parables and the explanation for why the Jews could not believe in Jesus despite his miracles (John 12:39-41)?  How does it relate to Romans 9:18?

7.   Read Isaiah 6:11-13.  What is God telling Isaiah will be the result of his ministry?  How is the image of a stump, as it relates to Israel, both humbling and hopeful for them?

 

8.   How do you feel the message of Isaiah 6 speaking into your life right now?  As a result, what do you think God wants you to understand or do differently?

 

9.   For next time:  Read Isaiah 40 three times.  Ask the Lord to give you a fresh awe and a greater vision of His greatness.

Evan Rogers - Patience In The Process

Galatians Greatest Hits

Patience In The Process

Evan Rogers

February 24, 2019

 

 

The book of Galatians is the 48th book inside of the Bible. It was probably written in the 50’s by the apostle Paul. It has 6 chapters and 149 verses.

 

I. “The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.”

Keller

 

Section 1: Credibility

            No Other Gospel 1:6-10

            Called By God 1:11-24

            Accepted By The Apostles 2:1-10

Opposing Peter Rightly 2:11-14

 

Section 2: Faith Vs. Works

            Justification Through Faith 2:15-21

            Saved By Faith Or By Works? 3:1-9

            The Righteous Live By Faith 3:10-14

 

Galatians 2:15-16 We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; 16 yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.

 

“God’s salvation does not come in response to a changed life. A changed life comes in response to the salvation, offered as a free gift.”

T. Keller

 

Section 3: The Bridge / Relationship With God

The Law and The Promises 3:15-29

            Sons and Heirs 4:1-7

            Concerns for Galatians 4:8-20

            Examples of Hagar and Sarah 4:21-31

 

Galatians 3:18 For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by promise; but God gave it to Abraham by a promise.

 

Section 4:

Christ Has Set Us Free 5:1-15

            Keep In Step With The Spirit 5:16-26

            Bear One Another’s Burdens 6:1-10

Final Warning & Benediction 6:11-18

 

Galatians 5:1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.

 

Galatians 5:18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

 

II. Two Views

 

We often Focus on doing the right thing because it pleases God and we want to earn something from him. This is earned merit, the __________ mentality.

 

We often focus on not sinning thinking that it clears us with God. This is earned righteousness, the _____________ mentality.

 

This is a _______________ fix.

 

“God’s salvation does not come in response to a changed life. A changed life comes in response to the salvation, offered as a free gift.”

T. Keller

 

Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

 

III. The cross saved us from ______________.

 

2 Corinthians 5:21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

 

Our greatest challenge as a Christian is ________________.

 

Philippians 1:6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.

 

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

 

Romans 5:8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

 

God deserves our _____________.

 

Galatians 6:14But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.

 

Deuteronomy 6:5 

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

 

2 Corinthians 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

 

We should live a _____________ focused life. (Romans 12:1-2)

 

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

 

1 Thessalonians 5:23 Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.

 

Be patient in the process. God will finish what he started. (Philippians 1:6)

 

How different could your life look if you spent more time focusing on God than you do your problems?

 

John1:12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God

 

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

 

If Christ has ultimate value and you are part of the body of Christ you have immeasurable value.

 

“The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.”

Keller

Spiritual Growth Questions for February 24, 2019

 

Opener: Has anyone ever tried to help you with something, but only made it worse.

 

1.     Read Galatians 2:15-16 What are the biggest pit falls of works based righteousness?

2.     A Band-Aid Solution is one that only fixes the surface level symptoms not the real problem. What results have you had employing Band-aid solutions in the past?

3.     Read Galatians 3:29 What does it mean to be a child of Abraham?

4.     Read Galatian 6:14 Have you ever boasted in your own works or righteousness? Why? What where the results of your boasting?

5.     Read Galatians 2:15-16 Which false mentality do you find yourself believing more, the job mentality (we earn things from God) or the perfectionist mentality (we fight sin alone to please God)?

6.     Read 2 Corinthians 5:21 What Christ has saved us from? (name as many things as you can think of)

7.     Read Philippians 1:6 Take a moment of self-reflection to ask yourself, do you really believe that God alone can save you despite your actions? If so what encourages you to believe that? If not what is stopping you from believing it?

8.     Read Deuteronomy 6:5 Why does God deserve our love? What do you do to maintain a close relationship with God?

9.     Read Romans 12:1-2 What benefits do we receive from focusing on God more than our problems?

10.  What in your life would change if your value wasn’t based on your actions or possessions but was based on your identity in Christ?

11.  Is there anything in your life that you need to surrender to God, any worry or insecurity? Is there any you focus on more than God that needs to be removed from your life?

John Lloyd - Sowing and Reaping

Life by The Spirit:  A Study of the Book of Galatians

Sowing and Reaping: Galatians 6:6-18

Pastor John Lloyd

February 17, 2019

 

The law of “big returns” is shared in the final verses of Galatians.  The principle of sowing and reaping can work positively to bring forth much fruit, or negatively to bring destructive results.  Every relationship we have requires our careful attention.  We need to be wise sowers and trust the Lord to bring His harvest even when the seed lies dormant.

Galatians 6:6-10. Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. 7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.  Memory Verse: 9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Galatians 6:14 But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. 15 For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.

 

Big Idea:    Our part is to sow, God brings the harvest in His time.          

God is faithful all the time.  All the time God is faithful!

 

I.               Sow ________________ with your spiritual leaders and teachers.

 

Galatians 6:6 Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.

 

The person referred to has received oral instruction in the Word of God. The word share means “to share, to be a partner in a thing with a person,” here “to hold fellowship with another person.” That in which the person holds fellowship with another is designated by the context. The one who is taught should hold fellowship with his teachers in all good things. Wuest

 

Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

 

Reflective question:  What would the state of the work of God be if every believer adopted your sharing patterns? 

 

II.             Reaping is always connected to ____________.

 

Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. (Proverbs 1:30)

 

The truth that what a person sows he will also reap is an axiom, it need no proof, no “because.” This clause “For” namely that we must not be deceived as to any possibility of God’s being mocked.”  Lenski

 

A.   The ________ and the _________ are always providing seed to sow.

Galatians 6:8 For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. (See questions 3 & 4)

 

For one sows in order to get more of the same product.  This will indeed happen. The flesh and the Spirit will pay us back for sowing to them. Moo

 

Hosea 8:7 For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind.

 

B.   I am _____________________ for the seeds I sow.

Ephesians 6:8 knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free.

 

Lord, help me to sow your spiritual seeds in my life.

 

III.            God’s calling is for you to sow __________________ seeds.

Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.

 

Sowing for the spirit is hard work, long continued work, and although the harvest is eternal blessedness,, we may, while we are waiting for it, grow discouraged.  Lenski. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 Never tire of doing good

 

A.   Sow the message of the ___________ and new _________ in Christ.

Galatians 6:14But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. (Co-crucifixion)  (Galatians 2:20)

 

15 For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation. (Co-resurrection) (See questions 8 &9)

 

B.   Sow His __________________ into all your relationships.

Galatians 6:10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

 

Galatians 6:6 Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.

 

D o trust the Lord for every person in your life.

O nly one life is soon past, only what’s done for Christ will last.

G ive generously to God’s work and people.

O ften prayer is the best seed that can be sown.

O penly share your life and testimony with others

D on’t give up, you will reap if you faint not.

 

C.  The ________________ is truly coming and will be beautiful.

Galatians 6:9And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. (Matt. 9:37-38, Jn.4:35)

 

2 Corinthians 9:6The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.    (I Corinthians 3:8)  (See question 5). Psalm 126:5

 

Galatians 6:16And as for all who walk by this rule, peace and mercy be upon them, and upon the Israel of God.  18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, (Question 10)

 

Join us in sowing God’s precious seeds in the Bay Area.  Our job is to sow, God will bring the harvest.

God is faithful all the time, all the time God is faithful!

Spiritual Growth Questions for February 17, 2019

 

Opener:  Share a time when you were blessed by reaping where spiritual seed had been sown. 

1.    Read Galatians 6:6-18Describe in your own words what is happening here.  What verse stands out to you as you read this passage?  Why?

2.   Read Galatians 6:6, I Timothy 5:17-18.  How does this verse apply to those in Christian ministry and those who benefit from their ministry?  Why is sharing so critical to the future of the church and kingdom?

3.   Read Galatians 6:7-8, I Corinthians 15:33, 2 Corinthians 9:6. What are some examples of both bad and good sowing and reaping? 

4.   Can you think of times in your own life when sowing to please your sinful nature has forced you to reap “destruction?”  How are you reaping to please the Spirit in your specific set of God-given circumstances?

5.   Read Galatians 6:9, 2 Thessalonians 3:3, Hebrews 12:3. What are some ways we can get tired from doing good?  What things help you to keep going and sowing?  How does the example of Jesus help you?

6.   Read Galatians 6:10, Titus 3:8. Why should “the family of believers” deserve our special attention?

7.   Read Galatians 6:11-13.  How does Paul show the Galatians that real Christianity is a matter of inward change, not external observance? Discuss how without the “cross” good people are in as much trouble as “bad” people?   

8.   Read Galatians 6:14 &17.  Paul shares that the heart of religion is what you boast in.  What, at the bottom is the reason you think you are in a right relationship with God?  How does this verse thrill and challenge you? 

9.   Read Galatians 6:15-16.  Consider accomplishments you are tempted to boast about.  How can you turn those around and give credit to Christ?  Spend time specifically thanking God for His blessings. 

John Lloyd - Spiritual Relationships

Life by The Spirit:  A study of the book of Galatians

Spiritual Relationships Galatians 5:25-6:5

Pastor John Lloyd

February 10, 2019

 

What does it look like to have spiritual relationships?  The apostle Paul was concerned that the churches of Galatia would be competing with one another instead of experiencing true community in the Spirit.  Paul shares that we can help each other bear burdens, keep one another on the right path and have a closer walk with God.  Today, we hope to help each other bring these truths into our relational network which will truly please God.

 

The Passage: Galatians 5:25-6:5.

 

Big Idea:  Spiritual relationships value people enough to restore and bear one another’s burdens for the glory of God. 

 

I.               Spiritual relationships start with __________________.

 

Galatians 5:25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

 

What it does not look like?    Conceited- empty praise.  

Provoking- irritating, thinking you are better than others (superiority).   Envying-feeling ill will towards someone else in a more favorable position.  Thinking you are worse than others. (inferiority). 2 Cor. 10:12

 

“In both cases your focus is heavily on how the other person makes you feel.”  Tim Keller

 

What it looks like?

Philippians 2:3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. (Romans 12:10, I Pet.5:5)

 

Every person has value before God.  Gen.1:26, Mark 8:36

 

The Holy Spirit wants you to be a vessel for spiritual relationships!

 

II.             ______________ restore erring brothers and sisters.

 

Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.

You who are spiritual- keeping in step with the spirit is restorative.

 

Matthew 18:15 “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”

 

Restore- setting a broken limb, mending a net. It means integrating them into the full fellowship with the Lord and their spiritual family.  The goal is to put the car back on the road. Lenski

 

To administer correction with mildness is a spiritual gift.  I Cor. 4:21, James 5:19-20, Luke 19:10

 

Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted-  spiritual relationships live by this motto:  “there by the grace of God go I.” 

 

Spiritual relationships are restorative.

Pray about a relationship that needs to be restored.

Take one step towards restoration. 

 

III.            Spiritual relationships bear and share ___________________.



Galatians 6:2 Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

 

The assuming of those burdens in a willing, helpful, sympathetic way, despite the fact that the bearing of them may involve unpleasantness and heartache.  Wuest, K. S. I Corinthians 13:5. Love bears all things…

“If you think you are too important to help someone, you are fooling yourself.” NLT

 

Burden-means a heavy weight, something that would be impossible for a person to carry by themselves.  Luke 10:33

 

A.    Help me feel what they __________.

 

Romans 12:15Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

 

Isaiah 53:3a He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief.

 

B.   Help me __________ the burden, not add to the struggle.

 

Matthew 11:29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.  I Peter 5:7

 

I Peter 2:24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

 

What can I do to walk with you during this time?

God greatly rewards burden bearers!

 

IV.           Spiritual relationships are _____________________ before God. 

 

Galatians 6:3 For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.

 

2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. I Corinthians 11:28



Galatians 6:4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor.

 

The sum and total of one’s conduct and service to the Lord.  Martyn

 

Galatians 6:5 For each will have to bear his own load.

 

Bear his own load- is a picture of a backpack, something that each of us is responsible for. Personal responsibility and accountability. 

 

God rewards spiritual relationships!

Spiritual relationships are a gift and they please God.

 

Spiritual Growth Questions for February 10, 2019

Opener:  How has the Holy Spirit helped you love someone you would otherwise not find very loveable?    

1.   Read Galatians 5:25-6:5. Describe in your own words what is happening here.  What positive and negative commands does Paul give the Galatians?

2.   What difference does the Holy Spirit make in your relationships?  How does it affect the way you look at yourself in terms of those around you? Also, how do you look at others in terms of yourself?

3.   Read Galatians 5:26, James 3:14-16, Philippians 2:3.  Why would conceit lead us to provoke and envy each other?  Do you tend to  provoke or envy?  How will having a self-image based on the gospel change the way you see yourself and see others?  When do you particularly need to preach the gospel to yourself?   “making us neither self-confident nor self-disdaining but both bold and humble.”  How does humility build spiritual relationships?   

4.   Read Galatians 6:1. What temptations accompany seeing another Christian sin?  What role does gentleness play in restoration?   Read Romans 14:1, 15:1, I Corinthians 10:12, 2 Timothy 2:25 for advice. What specific advice would give to someone restoring a wayward friend?

5.   Read Galatians 6:2. What burdens of your own do you need to share with others?  What burdens could you help carry for someone else today?  Commit to one action step to both share and carry a burden this week. Pray for these at the end of group.

6.   Read Galatians 6:3. What spiritual self-view is Paul proposing for believers?  How can this help us in our relationships? 

7.   Read Galatians 6:4-5.  What type of pride is Paul talking about here? Burden vs.2 means a heavy weight. Load vs.5 means a person’s back pack. What sort of things do we need to carry on our own?  How can we carry it in a way that honors God? Why do relationships matter so much to God?

John Lloyd - Walking His Way

Life by the Spirit: Study of Galatians

What Spiritual Growth Looks Like?

 Galatians 5:16-25

February 3, 2019

 

It’s wonderful to see children grow up into adults and, in many cases, look like their parents.  Physical growth is something we naturally expect.   It’s a blessing to see people come to believe in Jesus and grow in Him spiritually.  What does this growth look like?  Paul gives an incredible description in today’s passage of growing more like Jesus.  Spiritual growth brings health to every area of our lives.  May each day look more like the life of Jesus.

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Memory Verse:  25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.  26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

Big Idea:  We have forgiveness in Jesus Christ and He provides a new way of living.  Walk His Way

What does spiritual growth look like?

I.               Spiritual Growth is not only receiving forgiveness but it also is a ________ ________ of life.

Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (Galatians 2:20)

Romans 6:4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

I John 5:11 And this is the testimony, that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. (Ephesians 1:13-14)

If you have the Son, He is calling you to become like Him.          Walk His Way!

II.              Spiritual Growth is truly ___________________.

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Fruit- is singular as well as collective.  The flesh spreads out in many directions with its evil works. The spirit follows one direction, and produces unit fruit. Fruit is a sweet harmony.  Lenski

Love- means to serve a person for their good and intrinsic value, not just for what the person brings you. 

Joy- is a delight in God for the sheer beauty and worth of who He is. The opposite is hopelessness or despair and its counterfeit is elation that is based on experiencing blessings, but not the Blesser, causing mood swings based on circumstances.  (2 Corinthians 6:10, 7:4)

Peace – a confidence and rest in the wisdom and control of God, rather than in your own. It replaces anxiety and worry.  (Romans 5:1, Is.26:3)

Patience- an ability to face trouble without blowing up or leaving.  Its opposite is resentment toward God and others.  (2 Timothy 2:10)

Kindness- is an ability to serve others practically in a way which makes me vulnerable coming from a deep inner security.  Its opposite is envy, which leaves me unable to rejoice in another’s joy. (Eph.2:7, Rom. 2:4)

Goodness- (integrity) being the same person in every situation, rather than a phony or hypocrite.  It implies generosity.  Romans 15:14

Faithfulness-(loyalty, courage) being utterly reliable and true to your word.  Its opposite is to be an opportunist, a friend only in good times. ITim6:11 It denotes an attitude or response that we have towards others.

 

Gentleness- (humility, self-forgetfulness) the opposite is to be superior or self-absorbed. When we are wronged or abused we shall show no resentment or threatening vengeance. (Matt.5:5, 11:29, 2 Timothy 2:25)

Self Control- the ability to pursue the important over the urgent, rather than always be impulsive or uncontrolled. Holding our desires and passions in check. (Acts 24:25, Titus 1:8)

 “When we stop looking at our gifts as a sign that we are Christ like, and stop looking to our natural strengths as a sign we are Christ like, but challenge ourselves to look at nature, unity and definitions of the Spirit, we have a much deeper sense of how we lack these things.” Keller (Q5)

Spiritual growth is gradual, inevitable, internal, and symmetrical. (Q4)

Lord, make me more like You.  Walk His Way!

III.             Spiritual ____________ is produced when I walk His Way.

Galatians 5:24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

“This combination of “indicative” (what God has done) and imperative (what we must do) is typical of Paul’s presentation of our walk. A concentration on either to the neglect of the other leads to an imbalance.” Moo

a.   Know to whom you ______________.  (Romans 6:6)

b.   Bring God your fleshly passions and desires to the ____________. (Rom.8:13, Galatians 6:14)

c.    Choose to live in step with the ______________.  (Galatians 5:25)

Galatians 5:25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.  (Galatians 5:16, 18)

John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.  (John 15:7-8)  (Question 8 &9)

Commit to growing in this new way of life.  Walk His Way

Growth Group Questions for February 3, 2019

Icebreaker:  Describe the longest walk you have ever taken. 

1.   Read Galatians 5:16-25Describe in your own words what is happening here.  What is the value of the list of fruit in 5:22-23? 

2.   Read Jeremiah 31:31-34 & Romans 8:3-4.  Write down the relationship between the Holy Spirit and God’s statutes?  How are things different now that we have the Spirit? (Romans 8:3-4)

3.   Read Galatians 5:16, 5:25. How is it helpful to know that the Holy Spirit is the dominant power in the battle against the flesh?  What helps you to remember the power of the Holy Spirit in this battle?

4.   Read Galatians 5:22-23 and from our outline.   Spiritual growth is gradual, inevitable, internal, and symmetrical.  Examine yourself.  How can you see the fruit of the Spirit growing in your life?

5.   Do you have natural characteristics which could be confused with the fruit of the Spirit? Which fruit do you chronically lack?

6.   Read Galatians 5:24, Romans 6:6 & 6:11. Why is it important to not just deal with what we do wrong, but to deal with the “why” we did what we did?  Why must we have it?   How can these verses help you?  

7.   What are the idols which need identifying and dismantling in your life? How can you replace them with Christ? Consider this quote: “The flesh demands but the Spirit produces.” 

8.   Read Galatians 5:25, Romans 13:14, John 15:7-8  How can the fruit of the Spirit take root in our hearts and be produced in our lives?  What helps you to keep in step with the Spirit?

9.   How will you choose to live by the Spirit today and this week? How can we pray for you?  Encourage someone to join you on this journey. 

John Lloyd - Spiritual Discernment

Life by the Spirit: Study of Galatians

Spiritual Discernment: Living by the Spirit

 Galatians 5:16-21

January 27, 2019

 

Followers of Jesus endeavor to live a life pleasing to God but sometimes are challenged with how.  The Galatians were told they needed to double down on their religious rituals to please God.  The apostle Paul teaches them another way which goes way beyond their own efforts.  The Holy Spirit is sufficient to fulfill laws and commandments as well as deal with our fallen nature and impulses. Living in step with the Spirit will produce lasting fruit.  Praying for 2019 to be a great year of living by the Holy Spirit!

 

Galatians 5:16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses. 19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, 21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.  (New Living)

 

Big Idea:  The Holy Spirit is sufficient to discern, direct and empower Christian living.  (Galatians 5:16)

 

Walk is common in the NT (30 times in Paul) depicting a way of life as a particular way or road to be followed.  Douglas Moo

 

I.               The Holy Spirit gives ________________ as to the roads to avoid. 

Galatians 5:17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. Romans 8:5-6

 

Living the way of the Spirit is what we most deeply ‘want’, yet the sinful nature continues to generate alternative and competing desires which we experience and can give in to, but which now contradict our most abiding love and goals. Timothy Keller

 

The conflict is between God’s Spirit and the impulse to sin, an impulse that no longer rules in the believer but still exerts influence that must be resisted.  Paul brings this to our attention with the utmost seriousness. Moo

 

Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these.  (Galatians 5:13)

 

5:19 Are evident- phanera- obvious, well known.  (Not an exhaustive list)

Three sins of sensuality- sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality

Two associated with pagan religions- idolatry and sorcery

Eight having to do with relationships- enmity through envy

Two with dissipated living- drunkenness, orgies.  (Lightfoot)

 

Gratifying  the flesh destroys relationships. It is building on sand. 

Sexual immorality- porneia- which is sexual intercourse between unmarried people.   Impurity-akatharsia- unnatural sexual practices and relationships

Sensuality/debauchery- aselgia-uncontrolled sexuality

Idolatry and sorcery- very specific occult practices.  Providing an inadequate substitute for God, and the second faking the work of the HS. 

Ambition/enmity- namely competiveness, a self-seeking motive

Envy- desiring what others have.

Jealousy- the zeal and energy that comes from a hungry ego

Hatred- a hostility , an adversarial attitude

Discord eris- being argumentive or seeking to pick fights

Fits of rage-thumoi- outbursts of anger; dissensions

Dissensions- divisions between people (which is what rage leads to)

Divisions- permanent warring parties and warring groups.

Drunkenness and orgies- One of the works of the flesh is addiction to pleasure creating substances and behavior.

 

Galatians 5:21 I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

“Those whose mark is the practice of such things.” Lenski.

 

“Paul is referring to habitual practice, rather than infrequent, and repented-of, lapses.  For someone continually to indulge the sinful nature without battling against it is to show that the Son has not redeemed them, and the Spirit has not renewed them.  Paul is not looking to undermine Christian assurance here; but he is aiming to banish complacency.”  Keller

 

Confession:  This is not the real me nor what I really want.  Redirect my desires towards you Jesus and your will for me. 

 

II.             Choose living in step with the Spirit for _______ and __________.

Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

 

“Sin is not a pet to tame but a beast to slay. You cannot slay it on your own. This is why God sent Jesus.  And why Jesus sent The Paraclete/Holy Spirit to those who believe and place their trust in Him.”  Bubot Parago

 

Romans 8:3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.  2 Corinthians 10:4-5, Philippians 4:8-9

 

Flee- 2 Timothy 2:22 NIV - "Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord                                                                                                                                                                    

 

Find- I Corinthians 10:13 "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape,                                                                                                                                  

 

Follow- Matthew 16:24- "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."                                                                                                                            

 

Fill- Ephesians 5:18b “Be filled with the Spirit.”  Philippians 1:9-11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ…   

 

I John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.                                        To walk by the Spirit each day we must Flee-Find-Follow-Fill

Spiritual Growth Group Questions for January 27, 2019

 

Icebreaker:  Describe a time when you got lost?  How did you find your way?

 

1.   Read Galatians 5:16-26Describe in your own words what is happening here.  Why do you think Paul gives both lists 19-21 and 22-23?   How can this be helpful for a follower of Christ?

2.   Read Galatians 5:19-21, Ephesians 5:3-5.  Why does Paul give these warnings?  Is it loving for Paul to warn? What stands out to you as you read these passages? 

3.   What are the over-desires that cause you to think or behave in these ways?  How does living by the flesh destroy relationships? 

4.   Tim Keller states: “We have to ask ourselves not just what we do wrong, but why we do it wrong.”  Try and answer this question from what you know of Scripture and also what you feel battling inside of yourself.  How can battling the motives be more helpful than battling the behaviors?

5.   Read & Reflect on Galatians 5:24- “And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” “Lord, my heart thinks that I must have this thing, otherwise I have no value. It is a pseudo-savior. But to think and feel and live like this is to forget what I mean to you, how you see me in Christ. By your Spirit, I will reflect on your love for me in Him until this thing loses its attractive power over my soul.” Practice this with one over-desire you battle and share your results with a friend or group member.

6.   Read the quoted verses: Living by the Holy Spirit means to Flee-         2 Tim.2:22. Find-I Cor.10:13. Follow-Matthew 16:24 and Fill- Eph.5:18b, Phil.1:9-11.  Pray over these thoughts.  Ask God to give you one way to implement each one. Share with a friend or group member to pray for you.

Memory Verse:Galatians 5:24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

John Lloyd - The Holy Spirit Is Sufficient

Life by the Spirit: Study of Galatians

The Holy Spirit is Sufficient

 Galatians 5:13-23

January 13, 2019

 

Followers of Jesus endeavor to live a life pleasing to God but sometimes are challenged with how.  The Galatians were told they needed to double down on their religious rituals to please God.  The apostle Paul teaches them another way which goes way beyond their own efforts.  The Holy Spirit is sufficient to fulfill laws and commandments as well as deal with our fallen nature and impulses. Living in step with the Spirit will produce lasting fruit.  Praying for 2019 to be a great year of living by the Holy Spirit!

 

Galatians 5:13  For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. 14 For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 15 But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another. 16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. 17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. 18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.

Memory verse: Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

Big Idea: Living by the Holy Spirit will produce a life pleasing to God. 

I.               Start with _________ of our God and Savior Jesus Christ. 

Creation is awesome. God designed it to be awesome. And God designed you to take in creation’s awesome display. You are meant to be inspired and to celebrate the awesome things that come from the Creator’s hand. But as you participate and rejoice in the awesome display of creation, you must understand that these awesome things were not intended to be ultimate. They were not made to be the stopping place and feeding station for your heart. No awesome thing in creation was meant to give you what only the Creator is able to give. Every awesome thing in creation is designed to point you to the One who alone is worthy of capturing and controlling the awe of your searching and hungry heart. Paul Tripp

Psalm 145:3 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.  4 One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. 5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.

Dolores Park Church is made up of many generations. Our prayer is that we could commend God’s glorious works from generation to generation.  Our desire is to impact our neighbors near and far. 

Ephesians 1:13 In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

John 17:4 I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do.

May we hold the awesome glory of the works of the Lord before all we influence.  The way to defeat fear is with fear (awe of God). Tripp

 

The awe of our Lord Jesus will fill the “hole” in our soul.

 

II.             Living by the Spirit ________________ fallen “awes.”

Galatians 5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Walk- order one’s life or behavior.  Desires- strong impulse or passion Gratify- to bring fulfillment in action

It does not express a command, but gives a strong assurance that if the believer depends upon the Spirit to give him both the desire and the power to do the will of God, he will not bring to fulfillment in action, the evil impulses of the fallen nature, but will be able to resist and conquer them. Kenneth Wuest

A.    Approach our fallen nature by ________________________ to God.

Galatians 5:17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other,

James 4:7-8 "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

“The only way to conquer the flesh is to yield to the Spirit. Walk by the Spirit implies both direction and empowerment; that is, making decisions and choices according to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and acting with the spiritual power that the Spirit supplies.”  ESV Study Bible

“The Spirit is shaping us into the kinds of persons who overcome and rise above the desires of the flesh” ~ Dunnam

The Holy Spirit is stronger than the most powerful fallen desires. 

The battle is won by surrendering to the Spirit.

B.    Living by the Spirit will produce a life __________________ to God.

Galatians 5:18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Romans 8:3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 10:4 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, (2 Corinthians 10:4, Philippians 4:8-9).

Flee- 2 Timothy 2:22. 

Find- I Corinthians 10:13

Follow- Ephesians 5:18, Matthew 16:24. 

Fill- Ephesians 5:18b, Philippians 1:9-11.                                                       

 To walk by the Spirit each day we must Flee-Find-Follow-Fill

Spiritual Growth Group Questions for January 13, 2019

1.   Read Galatians 5:13-18Describe in your own words what is happening here.  Why is this important?

2.   Read Psalm 145:1-6, John 17:3-4.  What is the psalmist trying to convey?  What do you see as the goal of Jesus’ time on earth? 

3.   Take some time to do a personal awe check:  Where do you experience your biggest moments of happiness and your darkest moments of sadness? What angers you or crushes you with disappointment? What motivates you to continue or makes you feel like quitting? What do you tend to envy in the lives of others, or where does jealousy make you bitter? What makes you think your life is worth living or causes you to feel like your life is a waste? When you say, “If only I had _______,” how do you fill in the blank? What are you willing to make sacrifices for, and what in your life just doesn’t seem worth the effort? Look at your highest joys and deepest sorrows, and you will find where you reach for awe.  Share what you learned with a friend or a group member. 

4.   Read Galatians 5:16-17.  What battle is Paul describing inside the follower of Jesus?    What solution is he proposing to the Galatians? How does this solution encourage or discourage you? 

5.   Read Galatians 5:18, Romans 8:3-4.  What is Paul teaching in these passages?  Why is Paul’s teaching so much better than the false teachers who were trying to influence the Galatians?  How could this be helpful in your life?

6.   Read 2 Corinthians 10:4-5.  What does Paul teach about our thought life? What am I responsible to do with ungodly thoughts?

7.   Read the quoted verses: Living by the Holy Spirit means to

Flee-   2 Tim.2:22.

Find-I Cor.10:13.

Follow-Matthew 16:24 and

Fill- Eph.5:18b, Phil.1:9-11. 

Pray over these thoughts.  Ask God to give you one way to implement each one. Share with a friend or group member to pray for you.

John Lloyd - God's Grace

Free in Christ: Study of Galatians

God’s Grace Leads to a Stronger Freedom

 Galatians 5:1-15

January 6, 2018

 

Freedom!  We all long for it.  It might freedom or independence from school, debt, relationships and/or working.  The apostle Paul, a former persecutor of Jesus and His people, found that real freedom was not independence, but interdependence.  Real freedom came when he served God and others in love. Today, we will consider how God’s grace leads us to a stronger obedience to Him.

 

Galatians 5:1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. 2 Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. 3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. 4 You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. 5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.

Memory verse: Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Big Idea: True freedom is interdependence not independence

I.                Jesus came to set us __________.  

Galatians 5:1 For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.

“Christ has set us free: don’t you realize that is freedom (not slavery) that being free leads to?”  Douglas Moo

Stand firm – Hold fast to the privileges and blessings your salvation has brought to you. 

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (John 10:10)

A.    Freedom is _______________ and must be _______________.

Galatians 5:1b Stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.  (Questions 2 & 3)

Galatians 5:2 Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. (Gal. 5:7-9)

“Some would agree with Paul that circumcision entails obedience to the whole law, but they were hoping to bring the Galatians along by a policy of gradualism, only after the fact making clear just what circumcision really means.”  Doug Moo

B.   Real freedom means being liberated from past ____________ and from being _____________________ driven.

Galatians 5:3 I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. 4You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace.(Acts 15:1,5)

“Either find justification in Christ or find justification through doing.” Moo

“You can’t add to Christ without subtracting from Christ. He is either all their value or He is without value.  We cannot hold onto grace if we are living by works.”  Timothy Keller

How can grace be a greater motivator than guilt in your life?

Living by dependence on my own self effort brings bondage.

C.   If you have the _______________________, you have real freedom!

Galatians 5:5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.

2 Corinthians 5:5 who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.  (Ephesians 1:13-14)

Trusting Jesus is the beginning of real freedom.                               Don’t lose your freedom.  Don’t abuse your freedom.

How do you keep growing in stronger freedom in Christ?

II.             Use your freedom to ___________ others.

Galatians 5:13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.  (Question 7)

A.   Consider a new way of _______________.

Matthew 23:11 The greatest among you shall be your servant.

Philippians 2:5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 

“For Paul, freedom was interdependence, while for moderns it is independence. Put differently, we cannot apply freedom in Paul to our society until we see that the two are at odds with one another. This forces us to decide: “We have only to choose between bondage to the Father, which makes us free, and bondage to the powers of this world, which enslaves us.” Scot McKnight  

B.   Consider a new way of ______________.

John 12:24 Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

Galatians 5:14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

“Christians are freed from the law as a way to win merit from God, but we are not free from the law as a way to please God.” Keller

True freedom is interdependence, not independence!                       God show me who you want me to serve this week!

 

Spiritual Growth Group Questions for January 6, 2018

1.   Read Galatians 5:1-15Describe in your own words what is happening here.  Why is this important?

2.   Read Galatians 5:1, Philippians 1:27, 4:1.  In what is Paul telling the Galatians and Philippian Christians to stand firm?  What does he tell them they need to beware of?  What do you need to stand firm in?

3.   Read Galatians 5:2-4, Acts 15:1,5,10.  The Galatians are facing an either/or decision in these verses.  What was the decision they had to make?   Based on their decision, why could Christ have no value to them? (v.2) Why would they be severed from Christ and grace? (v.4) 

4.   Read Galatians 5:4 again.  Is Paul teaching that they can lose their salvation?  If so why?  If not why not? (See Rom. 8:38-39, John 10:28-29)  Why is their decision such a deal breaker spiritually?  “We are as loved and honored by God now as we will be when we are perfectly radiant in heaven.”  Keller  p. 136

5.   Read Gal 5:5-6. Hope means a powerful assurance and certainty of something. (Hb. 11:1) How much difference does a future hope make to your life now?  How can you think about it more? 

6.   Do you react to your successes and failures in a gospel way or in a works righteousness way?  Why or Why not? How does the race image (5:7) highlight the problem?  What slowed them down and hinders you?

7.   Galatians 5:1-12 teach us not to lose gospel freedom, verses 5:13-15 warn us to not abuse gospel freedom.  Based on these verses: What is Paul telling us to do with our freedom?  Where are you inclined to indulge yourself in the name of your freedom in Christ?  Who can I serve in love this week? 

8.   How does the gospel devour the very motivation you have for sin? How could it help you in your battle with sin?  How can God’s grace actually lead you to a greater obedience in your Christian walk?  How can grace be a greater motivator than guilt in your life?

John Lloyd - Starting The Year Off Right

Starting the Year Off Right

Psalm 121

December 30, 2018

Pastor John Lloyd

 

As the new year approaches, we pray God will help us process 2018 and prepare us for 2019.  All the way, we recognize the key is seeking the Lord first and His help.  He will supply all our needs. God’s best is yet to come! 

Psalm 121:1. I look up to the mountains—does my help come from there?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!

He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

The Lord himself watches over you!  The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night.

The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. 8The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.

 

I.               This earth is a place of ______________ exile for Christ followers.

 

Psalm 121:1. I look up to the mountains—does my help come from there?
Hebrews 13:14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come.

Hebrews 11:13 These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.  Jn 16:33

 

Reflective Questions:

Do you ever stay up late when you know you need sleep?

Do you ever eat or drink more calories than your body needs?

Do you ever feel you ought to exercise but you don’t?

Do you ever know the right thing to do, but you don’t do it?

Do you ever know something is wrong, but you do it anyway?

Have you ever known you should be unselfish, but you’re selfish instead?

Have you ever tried to control somebody or something and found it was uncontrollable?

 

If your answer is yes to any of those questions, welcome to the human race. We’re all in need of recovery.  The cause of my problem: MY SIN NATURE.   Romans 3:23, Isaiah 53:6a.

 

I can’t solve my problems in my own strength, I need God’s help!

 

A.   Develop the habit of looking ______.

 

Psalm 121:2 My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!

 

Psalm 115:11 You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD!  He is their help and their shield.  Hebrews 13:6, Matthew 6:33

 

Romans 10:17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.  Zechariah 4:6

 

Looking to God brings strength from the Holy Spirit!

 

B.   Thank God for watching over our __________.

 

Psalm 121:3 He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

 

Psalm 139:7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! 9 If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.  (Philippians 1:6)

 

Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

 

Psalm 121:5 The Lord himself watches over you!  The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night.

 

Spend time developing a  “I am thankful for” list.

 

II.             Seek His __________ and _____________ with your whole heart.

 

Psalm 121:8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.  Psalm 48:14

 

A.   Know the ________________ of guidance and direction.

 

Complacency: I don’t need any more help.

Confusion: The problem isn’t that bad after all.

Compromise: by going back to the place of temptation.

Catastrophe: give into the old habit, hurt, resentment or habit comes back

 

B.   Make time for ______________ that support guidance and direction.

 

“Let us not give up the habit of meeting together.” Hebrews 10:25 (GNB)

 

Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the

fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

 

1.   Reserve a Daily Time with God for self-examination, Bible

Reading and prayer in order to know God and His will for my life and gain the Power to do it.  (Ephesians 5:18b, 6:17)

 

Mark 1:35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.

 

Start a Bible reading plan:  Begin at whatever pace you can, but begin!

 

2.   Slow down long enough to hear God.  If you can worry, you can meditate deeply on God’s word. Worry is just negative meditation. 

 

“Happy are those who … are always meditating on God’s laws and

thinking about ways to follow him more closely. They are like trees along a

river … that do not dry up. They succeed in everything they do.”

Psalm 1:1–3 (LB/GN).

 

Look forward to what God has in store for you in 2019!

God’s best is yet to come. I Corinthians 2:9

Spiritual Growth Questions for December 30, 2018

Opener:  Share something you are thankful for from this past year.

1.   Read Psalm 121 three times.  What thought ministers to you?  Why?

2.   Read Psalm 121 and look for the word “keep.”  What “keeping” promise does God make to His people?  How does God’s idea of keeping differ from ours?  How can this be helpful in the new year?

3.   Read the following verses and describe the gift that each one is presenting?  How can these gifts be reflected in our attitude?

Romans 5:17 _________________________________________

John 5:24 ____________________________________________

John 10:28___________________________________________

John 4:14, Philippians 4:11 _____________________________

Ephesians 2:8 ________________________________________

Ephesians 5:16 _______________________________________      

4.   Which one of these issues do you battle and which one keeps you from reaching your goals? 

Complacency:  I don’t need any more help.

Confusion: The problem isn’t that bad after all.

Compromise: by going back to the place of temptation

Catastrophe: giving into the old habit or hurt.  The hate, resentment or bad habit comes back.

5.   Read Hebrews 9:12-14, 10:22, I John 1:7.  How can dead works keep us from worshipping God passionately?  What should we do about them?

6.   Read Psalm 1:1-3, Jeremiah 17:7-8.  How can you implement these promises in 2019? 

7.   List one or two goals that you have for your relationship with God for 2019.  Pick a partner for prayer, help and accountability?

John Lloyd - Christmas Thoughts

Great Thoughts of Christmas

Romans 8:31-39

December 23, 2018

 

Today we will consider the past grace revealed in the birth of Jesus.  This past display of grace is our guarantee of grace in the present for our daily needs.   This present grace gives us a secure hope for future grace not only in this life but the one to come, Paul Tripp.  It is our prayer that these great thoughts will encourage you this Christmas season.

 

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.  35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 36 As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all the day long;  we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

Big Idea: The birth of Jesus is God’s clear demonstration that he will make good on all of his promises to us. 

 

I.               The birth of Jesus is God’s fulfillment of his past ______________.

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?

 

Genesis 3:15 I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.”

I Kings 8:56 “Blessed be the LORD who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his servant.

 

Micah 5:2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.

 

Matthew 2:4-6 The scribes knew that Bethlehem was the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah.

 

Genesis 49:10 The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff  from between his feet, until tribute comes to him; and to him shall be the obedience of the peoples.

 

Matthew 1:2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,(Is. 7:14, Lk.1:31-37)

 

Isaiah 9:2 The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.

 

The years between the fall of Adam and Eve and the coming of Jesus present a powerful promise to us that God can be trusted. They tell us that no matter what it takes and how long it takes, God will always do exactly what he’s promised to do.  Paul Tripp. (Jeremiah 31:3)

 

The birth of Christ demonstrates past grace to every heart!

 

II.              Present __________ is available because it has been promised.

Romans 8:33 Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. 

 

Colossians 2:13 And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.

“I am not arguing that sin is okay or that you should not take it seriously.  I’m arguing that the security of our relationship with God has never depended on the faithfulness of our obedience.  If God withdrew his love every time we failed there would be no hope for any of us.  The unbreakable faithfulness of God’s love for us is such a huge comfort precisely because we are unfaithful.”  Paul Tripp (Ps. 130:3)

 

Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

The claim that Jesus is God also gives us the greatest possible hope. This means that our world is not all there is, that there is life and love after death, and that evil and suffering will one day end. And it means not just hope for the world, despite all its unending problems, but hope for you and me, despite all our unending failings.”  Timothy Keller Hidden Christmas

 

Reach out to God for His present grace is sufficient!

 

III.            Past and present grace are a guarantee of _____________ grace.

Romans 8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

 

The Christmas story is one big, beautiful promise. The fulfilled promise of Jesus’s birth guarantees that God will, in his perfect timing and in his wise way, fulfill every other promise he has ever made to us. Past grace is your guarantee of present grace and of all the future graces you will ever need. And at the very center of the guarantee is the promise of God’s eternal love. God sent his Son to us because he loves us. His Son now lives within us because God loves us. And we will live with him forever because God loves us. As you celebrate the birth of Jesus, celebrate the unbreakable love that his birth guarantees you.  Paul Tripp

 

 

May we celebrate the unbreakable love the birth of Christ     guarantees to all who call on Him this Christmas!

 

Spiritual Growth Questions for December 23, 2018

 

Opener:  Share a testimony of God’s faithfulness to you in the past

                  that brings comfort to you in the present.

 

1.   Read Romans 8:31-39.  How can the apostle Paul’s words be an encouragement to you this Christmas season? 

 

2.   What is your favorite Christmas carol?  Why is it special?

 

3.   Read Isaiah 7:14, 9:6, Genesis 3:15, 49:10, Micah 5:2.  Which prophecy encourages you and why?  How does prophecy create trust in God?  How does it help you trust Him with your challenges this season?

 

4.   Read I Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 14:1.  What is foolish according to Paul and the psalmist?  What is real wisdom?  What is the wisdom behind Christ becoming human flesh and living among us?

 

5.   Read John 1:14, Hebrews 13:5, Psalm 23:6.  Discuss God’s past grace in John 1:14, his present grace in Hebrews 13:5, and what future grace looks like in Psalm 23:6.

 

 

Reflect and discuss:  How is grace revealed in these passages?

Luke 2:10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 

 

John 1:17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.