3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. - Matthew 6:3-4Jesus is encouraging us to allow giving to be so much about God and also so common in our lives that it becomes second nature. Remember our second nature is who we are when we live by the Spirit and not by the flesh. It is who we are because we have been radically changed by the grace and presence of Christ. Where we don’t even think about keeping track of what, how often, or how much we give. We don't add it up in our minds so that we become proud of our own generosity.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Make Giving Common
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Orchestra
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Jettison the Junk
Memory Verse:
Friday, December 18, 2009
Go Deep
Memory Verse:
Monday, November 30, 2009
A Whole Notha' Level
Memory Verse:
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Live It & Share It
Memory Verse:
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Where does persecution come from?
For the enemy has persecuted my soul; - Psalm 143:3 nasb
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. – Ephesians 6:12
Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. – John 3:19 18
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the One who sent me.” - John 15:18-21Jesus tells us, “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you." There are people who believe that if they love the world enough; if they do enough good things for people; they will be loved. But, you just can’t love people enough for them to love you back. Jesus is perfect love. He loved the world in word and in deed. He healed, He comforted, He forgave, He even made water into wine, but the world still crucified Him.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Got persecution?
In His final Beatitude, Jesus tells us that it is about to get tough. Persecution happened to the prophets, it is happening to me, and it will happen to you.
10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. – Matthew 5:10-12
In fact, everyone (all) who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. – 2 Timothy 3:12
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Got Peace - Part Two
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. - Isaiah 26:3We stay in perfect peace when we stay focused on God. No matter what the world says, no matter what our circumstances are, no matter the economy, no matter the doctors reports, no matter what. So, do you want peace? Then bring God into your situations and stay focused on God and His truth. What does God say about it? Believe it, confess it.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Got Peace - Part One
Peace is being in right relationship with God! Peace is being in right standing before God. Peace means that Jesus is Lord of your life, your relationships, your attitude, your finances, your everything.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. – Matthew 5:9
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Keeping the heart pure
"If the pure in heart see God, then tell me how to have a pure heart because I want to see God."
“8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. – Phil. 4:82. This involves RENEWING OUR MINDS: We renew our minds by reading the Word of God – the Bible. When we read God’s Word, we fill our minds with life and with truth – with purity instead of filling it with the filth and follies of this passing world.
2Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed (be purified) by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. – Romans 12:23. Prayer & Fasting: Communing with the Holy One purifies our hearts. When we pray and when we fast, our focus is on God and nothing else. This strengthens our heart. In fact, scripture tells us it is so important that we should, “pray without ceasing” – 1 Thes. 5:17. Always be in a state of prayer (communing with God); allowing God to be involved in our everything. We need to wake up praying, not planning our busy day – Praying. It is no accident that I see God and His will so much clearer when I am purposely focused on Him during times of intense prayer and fasting? Could it be that my heart has undergone a cleansing from other affections? Could it be that I have just taken a spiritual bath and come to a place where my heart has been rinsed of gunk that had attached itself?
He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. - Proverbs 13:20
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. – Psalm 51:10
Friday, November 06, 2009
Want to see God?
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. – Matthew 5:8
Thursday, November 05, 2009
The way to God is through the heart
Yesterday we talked about how the PURE IN HEART chase after God and not other stuff. The PURE IN HEART pursue God and not selfish things. The PURE IN HEART seek God and they find Him because God has told us, “If you seek me, you will find Me.” The PURE IN HEART forsake all other affections and long for God alone. The PURE IN HEART are crazy in love with God and don’t allow anything else to compete for His affection.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. – Matthew 5:8
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
What motivates you?
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. – Matthew 5:8
“A wicked heart is a mind in a state of devotion to self; a pure heart, a mind in a state of devotion to God. It is a state of moral purity, resulting from a committal of the soul to God.” – Charles Finney
Thursday, October 29, 2009
What you want...
7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. 9 The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. 10 They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. 11 By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. - Psalm 19:7-11
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Forgiveness is hard, but...
God never told us it would be easy to forgive. He never said that showing mercy was easy – it cost Jesus His life to show us mercy. But, Jesus has clearly told us that it is the only way; that it is a non-negotiable. We have to forgive because we have been forgiven much. We have to show mercy because we have been shown much mercy.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Sow justice - reap justice. Sow mercy - reap mercy.
37"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." - Luke 6:37-38
- When you don’t judge others for their junk, you will receive good measure (loads) of mercy.
- When you don’t condemn others for the things they have done against you, then you will not be condemned.
- When you forgive others (even forgive them for the extremely hurtful, horrible, sick stuff), then you will be given complete forgiveness – overflowing.
- When you give out this mercy, it will be given to you in such large amounts that it will be running all over you and this will make you happy in God. AMEN!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Judging others is a way of seeking justice
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7:1-2This is a very clear statement from Jesus: If we demand justice and repayment for the sins that others have committed against us, then we will be dealt with in the same manner. OUCH! Let God judge. Leave any vengeance to God. We are called to be merciful.
The way we treat others is the way God will treat us. If we seek justice for others, then God will hand us over to justice. I don’t know about you, but I can’t handle that kind of justice. I can’t handle what I deserve - not from God, not from Satan, not from this cruel world. But, when I extend mercy to others; when I don’t judge others; when I forgive others for their sins against me, I then remain in the place of mercy and escape the place of justice – Hallelujah.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Got Mercy?
Our flesh cries out for justice. "They owe me and I want it. What they did to me was wrong and they should pay. Give me justice!" Our world is built on the principle of justice. Look at the court systems, look at the massive numbers of lawsuits. It is all about justice, but where is the mercy?
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. – Matthew 5:7
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Justice, Mercy, Grace
Justice is giving someone what they deserve.
It is justice to send me to hell.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Desperate for the Righteousness of Christ
The righteousness of Christ isn’t something we just wear like a mask. Rather, it is who we must become. His righteousness must be allowed to fill us to the full; to take us over. So that, we begin to become righteous as He is righteous - "Be Holy as He is Holy". So that we think like Jesus and act like Jesus. That is the real transformation that happens to those who are in Christ, who are meek, who are led by the Spirit and not by the flesh.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. – Matthew 5:6
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Finding Happiness in God - Audio Teaching
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Got mourning?
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. – Matthew 5:4
Friday, October 02, 2009
Life after death
New life only comes after death. If we want new life in Christ, we must die to self. This is true about our lives and it is also true about ministry. We must allow our plans to die so that God can bring His plans to life.
Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. – Luke 9:23-24I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds – John 12:24
Thursday, October 01, 2009
In the battle? Start crying.
20 They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him. 21 They seized the livestock of the Hagrites—fifty thousand camels, two hundred fifty thousand sheep and two thousand donkeys. They also took one hundred thousand people captive, 22 and many others fell slain, because the battle was God's. And they occupied the land until the exile. – 1 Chronicles 5:20-22
Friday, September 25, 2009
The extreme makeover
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! - 1 Corinthians 5:17
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Jesus said it’s all about repentance
Many say that the primary message of Jesus when He ministered on this earth was love. No doubt about it, Jesus spoke a lot about love and demonstrated pure love. However, the primary spoken message of Jesus was really repentance. Yes, repentance.
From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Matt. 4:17In fact, Jesus’ the whole Sermon on the Mount is a cry for repentance. This all starts to become clear when we see that the word “repentance” as used in the Greek means to “to change one’s mind for the better, to think differently, and to allow this new way of thinking to thoroughly change one’s actions and lifestyle.”
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Answer the call and see miracles
Amazing things happen when we do what God has called us to do. Let’s look at the Gospel of Mark’s take on the Great Commission to see what kind of results we can expect when we live out the calling that Christ has placed on our lives:
15He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. 16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17And these signs will accompany those who believe (those who have come to Christ as a result of us going and making disciples): In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well." - Mark 16:15-18
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Let's save the world
As a red-blooded man, I have had my fill of dreams where I was the one who came crashing through the door to save the day; where I was the one who blew up the plans of the enemy; where I was the super hero. In the Great Commission, Jesus gives His followers an amazing gift; He gives us clear insight into why we exist; why we are here. Additionally, He makes us part of the greatest possible adventure that life can offer - we get to partner with Christ to SAVE THE WORLD. Check it out...
18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - MAtthew 28:18-20
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Find the wall and tear it down
We know that Jericho was a barrier to Israel’s advancement. It had to be removed. It had to be destroyed for them to fully occupy the land. Is there a Jericho in your life today? With some it is selfish ambition: the desire for fame or success. For others it is covetousness: the desire to accumulate wealth – stuff. Still others it is worldly pleasure. Only by active faith can obstacles be overcome.
“The frowning walls of Jericho must fall before there can be spiritual progress and enjoyment of the riches of grace in Christ Jesus.” H.A. Ironsides
Saturday, September 05, 2009
God get’s His people involved
God can do things anyway He desires. For instance, He could have caused the walls of Jericho to fall and crumble with one word from His mouth. But instead, He got His people involved. He required that His people stand up and engage in the process. His people had to stand up and walk or nothing would have happened. God’s people had to take real steps of faith.
Friday, September 04, 2009
Is it really foolishness?
Some people think that the things of God are foolish. They say, “prayer is a waste of time, it doesn’t do anything; fasting is ridiculous, what does not eating have to do with God moving in our lives; going to church and singing songs is silly, nothing changes." That is what the world thinks.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Did you know that you already have it?
The Promised Land was given to the Israelites before they ever attacked Jericho. It was already theirs by title, but they still had to truly make it their own by driving out and destroying the vile inhabitants.
Then the LORD said to Joshua, "See, I have (past tense) delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. – Joshua 6:2
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Evident Life Church is moving! "Read" all about it...
That’s right, effective this weekend we are moving our Sunday meeting location from the Freestone Recreation Center to the Southeast Regional Library (755 N. Greenfield Rd in Gilbert). The library is on the Southeast corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe. It is a wonderful facility and gives us more room for growth at virtually the same weekly cost – praise God! We will continue to meet on Sundays at 4:00pm and have our time of dinner and fellowship afterwards.
The church website has been updated, but please let your friends and family know of the change and invite them to join us on Sundays. There is a tool on our website that allows you to easily invite friends and family to Evident Life. Take advantage of it and let’s keep growing the church for the glory of God and the advancement of His kingdom.
Click this link for a map to the library.
In amazement of Him,
Pastor Eric
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
I don’t want to miss Him
Friday, August 21, 2009
Don’t be a boiled Christian
“I can handle looking at that stuff. It won’t affect me. I can hang out with those friends. I won’t start using those bad words or doing the things they do." But, it happens. You slowly get sucked in and before you know it, you’re seemingly small compromises result in all-out sin and sometimes addiction. You feel far from God, you are cooked, and you wonder, "how did that happen"?
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Book of Joshua - Audio Teaching
Friday, August 14, 2009
Because God is our hero
Why does God call His people to establish memorials: things that help us remember the great things He has done in our lives? Why is it important for us to have testimonies? Why does God perform miracles? Why did God deliver us? Why? Ultimately, so that His name is glorified. So that people will be drawn to Him. Memorials proclaim the greatness, faithfulness, and the almighty power of God. It reminds the world that He is King, He is good, He is just, He is Lord, and He is our HERO!
He did this (stopped the waters of the Jordan and had the Israelites build a memorial) so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God." – Joshua 4:24
Thursday, August 13, 2009
One day we will need to remember
Why is it a good idea for us to heed God’s word and build memorials to His greatness and His faithfulness in our lives? Because, one day the river could be low. One day, things could get tough. Where’s our memorial? What will we be able to look to that helps us say, “OK, I remember what God did and I have come to trust Him?" Some day our river will be low, we’ll need some stones, a memorial, that helps us remember that God is good, that He is great, and that He is able. Something that reminds us that God has done it before and He is our hope.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Memorials help us pass on our faith
We are still on the topic of memorials. We tend to witness that the children of believers have the best opportunity to come to faith while they’re in the home of their believing parents. That personalizes the memorial a bit, doesn’t it? That’s why the Bible here deliberately introduces the notion of children and memorials. So that we can pass on the faith to the next generation!
6 "Let this be a sign among you, so that when your children ask later, saying, 'What do these stones mean to you?' 7 then you shall say to them, 'Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off.’ So these stones shall become a memorial to the sons of Israel forever." – Joshua 4:6-7
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
God wants us to remember
God clearly calls His people to build spiritual memorials. A definition of a spiritual memorial, what the Israelites set up in Joshua 4 after being led across the Jordan on dry ground, would be "a monument to a spiritual high water mark in life."
1 When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, 2 "Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, 3 and tell them to take up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan from right where the priests stood and to carry them over with you and put them down at the place where you stay tonight." - Joshua 4:1-3
Friday, July 31, 2009
The river is raging, but it's harvest time
I think it is very significant that the Israelites where called to cross the Jordan river into the Promised Land when the river was at flood stage. God could have chosen any time during the year for His people to cross this river. Why not drought season when the Israelites could have tiptoed across?
“Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest.” - Joshua 3:15
Thursday, July 30, 2009
When God moves, follow Him
"When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests, who are Levites, carrying it, you are to move out from your positions and follow it.” - Joshua 3:3The Ark of the Covenant in those days represented the very presence of God. It was His seat. It was the place where His Spirit dwelled. To follow the Ark meant to follow God.
So God is saying: “When you see me move, follow me.” Follow God. That is what we are supposed to do. We are not called to follow our own plans and our own desires. We are not called to follow what the world is doing and where they are going. We are not called to follow everyone else. We are not even called to follow our friends and family. We are called to follow God.
“Then we will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before.” - Joshua 3:4
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Ready to take the land
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Motivation matters
10 Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 11 God said to Solomon, "Since this is your heart's desire and you have not asked for wealth, riches or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king, 12 therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, riches and honor, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have." – 2 Chronicles 1:10-12
Saturday, July 25, 2009
God rescued me. I am His. I will live only for Him.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Fear God and not man
1 Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways. 2 You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. 3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table. 4 Thus is the man blessed who fears the LORD. 5 May the LORD bless you from Zion all the days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem, 6 and may you live to see your children's children. Peace be upon Israel. – Psalm 128
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Moving forward without fear
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Want success?
Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. - Joshua 1:8
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
HE HAS OUR BACKS
No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. - Joshua 1:5This is the nature of God. This is how He deals with His people. This is how He protects His people who call upon His name and step out in faith and pursue His calling. This is how He will be with us. WOW! God, the Creator of the universe, the Almighty One, the All Powerful One will be with us and never leave us as we obediently step into the plans He has for us. HE HAS OUR BACKS!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Go and God will give it
I will give you every place where you set your foot." - Joshua 1:3
Thursday, July 16, 2009
What has your attention?
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Are you paying attention?
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Need help?
1 I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (PSALM 121)
Monday, July 13, 2009
Launching a church in Gilbert, Arizona
Friday, July 10, 2009
Prayers that reach heaven
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Sometimes we need a little push
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Spiritual stimulus is what we need
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Passionately pursuing?
In his letter to the Christians in Philippi, the Apostle Paul, states, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.” – Phil. 3:10-11
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Motivation matters
What is your motivation? Is it your happiness, your comfort, your reputation, your acceptance, your desire to avoid pain? Are you looking to earn points with God? Is it all about looking good to God and to others? Or, are you motivated by a heart-felt desire to obey God, to follow Jesus, and to glorify the Lord? How you answer this question matters tremendously. It’s all about the condition of your heart – your motivation. Is your motivation (heart) still turned to you or is it turned to God?
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
God will do it
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Fearless Christianity
“On that day (the day that Stephen was stoned for preaching Christ) a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” Acts 8:1-4
Friday, June 12, 2009
They waited for the gift
“We (the apostles) are witnesses of these things (the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ), and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey Him." – Acts 5:32
"Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." – Acts 1:4b-5
Thursday, June 11, 2009
It’s not really about the shock and awe
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
It might take a miracle
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Put others before ourselves
As the Apostle Paul pointed out at the beginning of the 2nd chapter in his letter to the Christians in Philippi, the key ingredient to unity is humility. We must humble ourselves and, like Christ, die to our own rights and desires and put others before us.
Monday, June 08, 2009
Happy Anniversary
May God continue to take us where we could never go in our own strength; may we always keep our eyes on His cause; may we accomplish every good thing that He has planned for our lives; may our children rise up to call us blessed and may they never depart from the Lord; may the name of The Lord be glorified in our marriage; may we grow old together.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Let's lay it down
In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul demonstrates his willingness to forgo his personal desires in order to minister to others.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Things I Love: The Bible
Big Idea:
Beyond being the best selling book of all time, the Bible is the divinely inspired Word of God that reveals the character and majesty of the Creator of the universe, while also presenting His love and purposeful plan for us. However, the Bible is only effective when we allow it to penetrate our hearts, minds, souls, and spirits. We must receive the Word and permit it to take root in our lives, resulting in change that will last for all eternity.
The Bible is a special book because it is God’s Word. Although written by human beings, it is also the inspired Word of God. God has revealed Himself to us through His written Word, which points us toward Christ. He shows us truth, reveals our hearts, disciplines us, encourages us, and prepares us for life. Reading the Bible helps us maintain and refresh our relationship with God. Additionally, the Word of God has the power to heal and transform our lives. God's word is not like the word of man; it is living, effective and self‑fulfilling. It diagnoses the condition of the human heart and brings blessing to those who receive it in faith.
Luke 8:4-15
- Along the path: How does the devil take away the word from their hearts?
- Among the rocks: What do the rocks represent? Why do you suppose they fell away?
- Among the thorns: How do these things "choke" the Christian life? What are indications of maturity?
- On good soil: What are characteristics of people who not only receive the message well, but also produce fruitfulness after much perseverance?
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
“The proof of desire is pursuit.”
Do you want to know what you really desire? Take a look at your life. What are you pursuing? Are you pursuing the things of God? Are you going after righteousness, godliness, faith, and love? Are you taking advantage of every opportunity to advance the Kingdom of God? If so, then Jesus is your desire? Or, are you pursuing the things of this world - wealth, pleasure, comfort, and reputation. Is it the applause of man that you seek? Is it your next purchase or your next vacation that fills your thoughts and drives you? If so, then that speaks volumes about your desire.
Take inventory of your life. God wants to be your deep desire. He will not share that with anyone or anything.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Take hold of the eternal life
Being a follower of Christ is not a one-time decision. It always starts with the loving work of Christ on the cross and His grace that He freely offers to us. We then have the opportunity to accept this gift. But, this is not the end of the story. It is still just the beginning. Check out this passage from the Apostle Paul to his protégé, Timothy. Let’s remember that Paul is writing this to an established man of God – a leader in the church.
“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12
Monday, May 25, 2009
Are you fleeing? Are you pursuing God?
In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he states, “But you, man of God, flee (run) from all this (greed, bad doctrine, divisiveness, controversies, sinful behavior), and pursue (chase after) righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.” 1 Timothy 6:11
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
What's Impressing You?
Big Idea:
Impressions shape our lives in big ways and in small ways, and what we allow to impress us will affect what kind of impression we leave on others.
Summary:
Impressions are more than words that we remember; they impact and change us, sometimes ever so slightly, and yet, a few times in life we encounter moments, events or influential people that leave an unmistakable imprint on our souls. Have you ever thought about what kind of impression you are leaving? We will all leave an impression on the world around us and on the generations that follow us.
Here are three types of impressions we are called to leave: (1) Intentional Impressions: We are called to intentionally shine the light of Christ in a dark world and to teach the ways of the Lord to the generations that follow us. We intentionally make impressions upon others when we live like Christ is the King of our lives and when we make disciples. (2) Righteous Impressions: As agents of righteousness, we have the privilege of working with God to build up, encourage, speak the truth in love, and bear the burdens of others. If we choose to ignore or put down others, we are abandoning our assignment to bless them. Your blessing has the power to change the atmosphere in a room, in a relationship, and in a community. (3) Lasting Impressions: We should not be satisfied with leaving a few “warm fuzzy” feelings and some inspirational thoughts with the generations that follow us; rather, we should be driven to leave an indelible impression that cannot be erased or ignored - an unforgettable reminder that people matter because they are loved by the God of heaven, that their faith response to the call of God will make a difference in a hurting world, and that the only life worth living is the one that represents Christ.
Finally, what you are impressed with will determine what kind of an impression you leave on others. If you are impressed with the things of this world, then you will leave the mark of this world on others; however, if you live a life that demonstrates the evident impression of Christ, then you will leave the mark of Jesus on those around you and the generations that will follow. The world needs people who have been truly changed because the King of Kings has impressed them to the core. Let God impress His Son so deeply on your life that He is seen in everything you say and do. Let’s leave an impression!
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Deuteronomy 6:1-9
How can we practically impress the ways of God on the next generation? What is the result of discipling others? How have you seen this precept work in you and in the lives of others around you?
Matthew 5:13-16
Why is it important to intentionally display Christ in our daily lives? Discuss how we can we “let our light shine”. What are you personally doing in this area?
Philippians 4:8-9
Discuss what things you are allowing to impress your life. How is this affecting the kind of mark you are leaving on others? How does the truth of this scripture change what you will allow into your life?
Taking Action: Write down those who you are purposefully impressing (discipling) in the ways of God. If the list is short, ask God to reveal those you are called to intentionally impress for His glory. Begin making a lasting impression of righteousness in their lives as you teach them the ways of God.
Ministry Time
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Stigmata of the Cross
Big Idea:
Just as God has our names tattooed on His hands and His image imprinted on our hearts, He also wants His mark of identification branded on our lives. This mark separates, regenerates, and unites us.
Summary:
The Apostle Paul once said that he bore the “marks” (or “stigmata”) of the Lord as a result of his life and ministry. The Greek word “stigmata” represents ownership. We all wear marks and show our allegiance to something. We tell the world and God where our allegiance lies by what we say, what we do, where we spend our time, how we spend our money, and how we treat others. There are times when we show our allegiance to the world, to our friends, to our political party, and to our social clubs more clearly than we do to the Kingdom of God. There is really only one thing that truly matters in this life, one event which divided the History of the world, one payment which covers the cost of sin: it is the cross of Jesus Christ. May our lives be branded with the symbol of His amazing sacrifice.
God took the vilest of symbols, the cross, and turned it into the ultimate sign of victory! That God became one of us and allowed Himself to be viciously nailed to that “emblem of suffering and shame,” is remarkable. Only God would do such a thing. Only God could bring glory from shame, taking the stigma of the cross and turning it into a tattoo of beauty - a priceless piece of art. But is this stigma just a symbol, or is it an instrument of deliverance? Do you wear the stigmata of the cross, not just around your neck, but also in the way you live? Do others associate you with what the cross truly represents? 1) The stigma of the cross represents separation. The Greek word for separation basically means to be holy, righteous, and sanctified. When we fully identify with His stigmata, God instantly separates us from our sinful past. Then he progressively separates us from the behavior that keeps us from fully becoming like Jesus. And ultimately, we will one day be completely separated by being given perfect and sinless bodies. The goal of a Christian is to be more and more like Jesus until this happens. 2) The stigma of the cross regenerates us. The work of the cross is what brings us into newness of life and removes the old sinful nature that used to rule us. We are new creations. The old has passed away, and we can now live for God while we shed our sinful lifestyles. 3) The stigma of the cross unites us by making those who believe in Christ into a family. So, what brand to do wear? What stigma do you bear?
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Galatians 6:14-17
What does it look like to “die to the interests of this world”? Give examples of how we can bear the “stigmata” of Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:14-17
What does Paul say will happen when we wear the brand of the cross and fully associate with Christ? Share what “old things” have disappeared in your life since coming to the cross.
Hebrews 2:10-11
How can the cross change our identity? What does it mean to you to be called a brother of Christ and also a child of God? Discuss the implications of being a member of God’s family.
Taking Action: Write down where you spend your time and money. Based on this list, what brand are you wearing? Purpose to associate more with the cross and less with the world.
Ministry Time
Friday, May 08, 2009
Time in the parking lot
“Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy? Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God. Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Saturday, May 02, 2009
What's our motivation?
What’s our motivation for Christ? Is He our ticket out of hell? Is He the means to our best life now? Or, is He our deep desire and our great expectation? Are we Christians because we are afraid of hell and would rather have an eternity of comfort instead of torment? Or, are we Christians because we crave to be in the presence of God? If we crave to be in God’s presence, then why aren’t we chasing after His presence right now? Why don’t we rearrange our day to make significant time for him? Why do we allow the distractions of this world to crowd out Christ from our daily life? Why do we choose 3 hours of watching football or shopping over 3 hours of worship, prayer, and time meditating on His Holy Word? Is He our deep desire? Do we want to really know God? We can be in His presence today. Let’s go for it. Let’s choose God.
Friday, May 01, 2009
Foundational Truths
“Lord, why did You create me? Was it to make money? Was it to satisfy the cravings of my flesh? NO! You created me to be loved and to love. You created me to love you and to love others. You created me to bring glory and fame to Your name – Jesus Christ, the hope of the entire world.”
“The work of Christ is enough to fully justify me and to fully sanctify me. His grace is enough! I have all I need for life and for godliness. I am fully equipped in Him. He will complete His work in me. May His full sacrifice be made fully evident in my life for His glory. My flesh is not in charge. It does not control me. I am a child of God who walks by the Spirit! In Him, nothing is impossible.”
- Eric Jones
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The humble and God-fearing heart of our President ... Lincoln
Proclamation Appointing a National Fast Day
William H. Seward, Secretary of State.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
What is imprinted on your heart?
Big Idea:
All of us have something imprinted deep upon our hearts and minds; something that forms our perspective on life, shapes our attitudes, and drives our behavior. What image is imprinted on your heart?
Summary:
The great and wise King Solomon tells us that, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he…” In other words, whatever you have imprinted upon your heart will eventually reveal itself in your character and how you live life. Your “heart” is the place of your deep-seated beliefs. It is the core of your identity and the hidden vault of your values. Your heart is where you develop an image of worth and value or of hopelessness and despair. Ultimately, your inner world always determines the success of your outer world. In order to live a life that glorifies God, benefits the world, and brings fulfillment to your soul, you will have to invest more time and effort into building your inner world than you do in building your outer world. So, what image is imprinted on your heart? Do you walk around with an inner image of despair that says, “Yesterday was bad, today is worse, and tomorrow will take me to new lows?” Or do you embrace the image that says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me?”
There are three things that can greatly affect our inner image. (1) Our beliefs form our inner image. If you want to change anything about your life, you have to change what you believe deep within your heart. You can change your inner image by choosing what you believe. (2) Our expectations form our inner image. What do you expect out of life? What do you expect God to do in you, and through you? If you expect to live a defeated life, then, regardless of the potential that lies within you, your expectations will produce defeat in your life. You can change your inner image by changing what you expect. (3) Our experiences form our inner image; and our attitudes become hardened when we fail to properly process the pain of past experiences. Past experiences often form present attitudes and present perceptions. You can change your inner image by releasing the past; however, changing your inner-image is only useful if you choose to exchange the old image with the image of Christ Jesus. This is accomplished by walking in submission to God, living secure in His love, acting selflessly toward others, and focusing on your God-given purpose in life.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Luke 6:43-45
How does the condition of your heart affect how you live life and treat others? What faulty things have you programmed into your inner image? How has this affected your relationships, your character, and your overall success in life?
Romans 12:1-2
Discuss different ways we can be conformed to this world. How have worldly influences affected your life? What are some ways that we can renew our minds? How does God’s Word renew our minds? Give examples.
Philippians 2:1-11
Discuss how we can have the same attitude of Christ and (1) be submissive, (2) be secure in our identity, (3) be selfless, and (4) be single-minded.
Taking Action: Purposefully write down what is really forming your inner image. Is it external forces and other people, or is it God? Purpose to spend significant time in God’s Word each day this week and allow God to transform your thinking into His reality. Take notice of the change in you.
Ministry Time
Monday, April 27, 2009
Everyone's lookin' for it
Big Idea:
Every one of us desperately wants to be loved and we will often do desperate things in order to find that love. We must come to the realization that we can only find this love in the One God who has always loved us.
Summary:
We all have a deep desire to be loved and accepted. In each of our lives there is a fundamental need to be accepted, understood, and unconditionally loved. Your greatest need is not money. Your greatest need is not success. Your greatest need is not fame. Your greatest need is not a better job. Your greatest need is to be loved. Not with sentimental love, not with sexual love, and not with brotherly love, but with a love that is transcendent, a love that is unconditional, and a love that only God can give.
However, many of us, in search of perfect love and acceptance, have inscribed some ugly images upon our lives: the image of performance, the image of a person, the image of position, the image of physical affection, the image of pleasure, the image of possessions, or the image of pity. The problem with these images (tattoos) on our lives is that they never really produce what they promise. They may produce momentary gratification and meaning, but they always leave you wanting more and, ultimately, wishing you could remove the marks that they leave on your life. That’s where God’s love is so different. It’s a love based on giving. A love based on serving. A love based on an eternal commitment. Here are four beautiful truths that you can safely tattoo on your life without the fear of having to remove them later. (1) God’s love is unmerited. God loves you simply because He wants to. (2) God’s love is unconditional. He loves us at all times. Even in our weakness and failures. (3) God’s love is unchangeable. His love is eternal. (4) God’s love is unforgettable. He will not forget you for “see, He has inscribed you on the palms of His hands.” – Isaiah 49:16. If you have been looking for love in all the wrong places, God is calling you to Him. He desires to be the image that is tattooed on your heart. He is waiting for you to turn to Him, leave the unfulfilling traps of this world, and find meaning, purpose, and acceptance in His amazing love.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
1 John 4:9-19
How does embracing God’s love for us change everything? How can we be confident that God’s love is in us? How has your understanding of Gods unmerited and unconditional love changed your life?
Romans 8:35-39
Have you ever believed that something has separated you from God’s love? How did that affect your relationship with God? Why do you think Satan uses this lie? How can you experience victory in this battle?
Hosea 1:2-3 & Hosea 3:1-3
How does this story of Hosea’s love for his unfaithful wife parallel God’s love for us? In what ways have you experienced God’s unconditional love?
Taking Action: Examine yourself and list what images you have tattooed on your life in an attempt to find love and acceptance. Now, make the decision to lay those down at the feet of the cross and embrace the unconditional and unending love of your Creator – God Almighty.
Ministry Time
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Command, don't suggest
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Adios Diablo
The Apostles James makes an amazing statement, “Resist the Devil and he will flee from you.” What an incredible truth. We actually have all we need in Christ to say no to the Devil; to resist his will on our lives. It is also incredible that when we exercise this God-given grace, that the Devil flees. The devil actually runs from us. We don’t have to live with the Devil. The Devil doesn’t have to be a companion of ours. When we live in the spirit and not by our flesh, when we take hold of the victory that we have in Christ Jesus, when we humble ourselves and receive the amazing grace of God, the Devil will run from us. Hallelujah!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Taking care of ministers
If you have been following Transformed Daily, you know that I have recently been spending a little time in the book of Joshua. Much of this book is dedicated to the distribution of the Promised Land to God’s chosen people. It is always interesting to note that as all of the land is being distributed among the tribes, it is very obvious that the Levites are left out. In fact, it is clear that they are intentionally left out of the land distribution bonanza. Why weren’t the priestly people given any land? Doesn’t this seem like a severe oversight or a grievous error? It seems backwards. Wouldn’t God take extra-special care of His priests by blessing them with the lion’s share of the land? Why didn’t the men of God get the largest allotments of land? Why did they just get some cities that they were allowed to live in, rather than thousands of acres of land to call their own?
“But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ. Don't you know that those who work in the temple get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in what is offered on the altar? In the same way, the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Corinthians 9:13-14)
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Who do we associate with?
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
AWAKEN
Here is my small group curriculum from this past Easter's teaching.
Big Idea:
There are moments in life when we face the choice to either remain in the pain of our own disappointment or to awaken and enter the hope of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Summary:
The disciples of Jesus spent three amazing years walking with Christ, witnessing miracles, receiving His teaching, and experiencing His love. However, after the crucifixion, we see them retreating to three different places: (1) sitting in a room enveloped with hopelessness and despair, (2) stumbling down a road going nowhere important, and (3) fishing from a boat as they try to forget the pain of the past. These three locations reveal three spiritual conditions many people find themselves in. First, there are those who are entombed in hopelessness. Like the disciples, they have come to believe that their condition or situation is beyond hope: “this marriage is beyond repair, this career is going nowhere, this family cannot be healed, or there is no answer for my medical condition.” But what the events of Easter show us is that if God can raise His Son from the dead, He can raise your dead marriage, your dead career, and your damaged relationships; He can deliver you from your addictions, heal your body, and resurrect your dreams. Awaken to the Hope of Christ in you.
The second condition we can sometimes experience is a loss of direction. Like the disciples who were found stumbling down the road to Emmaus, we can find ourselves sleepwalking down a road to nowhere without purpose or direction. But, aimlessly living life without knowing God’s plan is petty and pointless. When we discover Whose we are, we will finally understand who we are. We were made by God and for God. Awaken to the truth of Whose you are. Finally, some disciples lost their focus and retreated to their pasts in hopes of numbing their pain and forgetting what had just happened. They were distracted by what their old life was calling them back to. We are too often enslaved by our distractions, which have become our addictions and have lulled us to sleep from the greater purpose of our lives. Awaken to your God-designed purpose in life. “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” Ephesians 5:14 (NLT)
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Discuss the empty and temporal ways the world encourages us to cope with life? Which have you tried and how has it turned out? Share how Christ is your redeemer and how He has restored an area of your life.
Psalm 42
When you feel hopeless, what thoughts go through your mind and how do you respond? What did King David do when he began to lose hope? Give examples of things we can speak when we feel hopeless.
How does this passage depict God’s heart toward you? How can you discover and realize God’s plans for your life? Share what prevents you from running to God in times of trouble.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Happy Resurrection Sunday
"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" - 1 Corinthians 15:55
"My chains are gone, I’ve been set free. My God, my Savior has ransomed me. And like a flood His mercy reigns. Unending love, Amazing grace"
Friday, April 10, 2009
We can!
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Thoughts on faith
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Wholehearted Faith
Caleb followed God with every fiber of his being. He trusted God with everything. He didn’t give God most of his life, rather he gave God his whole life. He didn’t hold anything back; he surrendered it all. His entire being was wholly the Lords.
Are you wholeheartedly following God? Is everything in your life submitted to Him or are you holding something back? If we want to take ground for God’s kingdom and win spiritual battles, then we must have wholehearted faith and confidence in God. God is still looking for Caleb’s. He still desires our whole heart - our everything. Let’s be the Caleb’s of this generation who lay it all down for the sake of our God, our King, our Savior, our Lord.
Check it out in Joshua 14:6-15
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
The counter-cultural King
Big Idea:
When Jesus entered Jerusalem, He didn’t enter with pomp and circumstance. He didn’t enter with military power and worldly might; rather, He entered humbly on the back of an ordinary donkey. Who is this Savior King?
Summary:
Throughout the life of Jesus, He confounded conventional wisdom. He never fit into the world’s mold. Jesus came, the first time, as a humble servant born in a stable. Throughout His entire life and ministry, He didn’t live like the royalty of this world, but lived simply and modestly. His entry into Jerusalem was no different, as He triumphantly entered on a donkey. God’s kingdom is vast and without end, set apart from the kingdoms of this world. It started with a few unimportant people who passionately pursued the Man on the donkey. It has not grown by a large takeover or great force, but by one person at a time accepting the Savior King and His ways.
The message of Christ has always been a counter-cultural message. His kingdom has never been in-step with the kingdom of this world. His kingdom is opposite world: a kingdom where the last shall be first and the first shall be last; a kingdom where the greatest of all shall be the servant of all; a kingdom where those who give their lives away shall find in return a greater life, and those who seek to preserve their own lives shall lose them. It’s a kingdom where the best seats at the banquet table are reserved for the least, the last, and the lost. A kingdom where the broken are healed and the seemingly whole are broken. A kingdom where the outcasts are the inner circle and the “know it all’s” are left outside.
The power of God is concealed in what the world considers weak and despised. The glory of God is revealed in what many of us overlook as insignificant. How many times have we missed the presence of God because our eyes where searching for what the world considers greatness? How many times have we missed the supernatural because we were searching for the spectacular? If we are looking for the presence of God, we had better get our eyes off of the things of this world and humbly tune into the heart of God and His kingdom by surrendering our lives to Him and focusing on the things of God – the pure, holy, righteous, and lovely. Remember, God’s ways are not necessarily our ways.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
1 Corinthians 1:27-29
Jesus riding into town on a donkey seemed foolish to the world. Has God used something “foolish” to get your attention or draw you to Him? Share an example where you personally or someone in God’s Word has missed a move of God because it wasn’t recognized.
Isaiah 55:6-11
How are God’s thoughts and plans learned? Share personal experiences or insights from the Word that demonstrate that His ways are different from our own.
Matthew 5:1-12
How does Jesus describe a citizen of opposite world? Discuss how these character qualities should be demonstrated in our lives. How does this differ from the qualities promoted by this world?
Taking Action: Make a concerted effort this week to tune out the noise of the world and tune into God by spending time in His Word and in prayer. Make your ways, His ways.
Ministry Time
Thursday, April 02, 2009
God’s Merciful Heart
Big Idea:
As citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven, we must embrace the heart of our merciful King by demonstrating a sincere concern for the needy and being moved by the desire to reach the lost, the oppressed, the haggard, the hungry, the homeless, and the dispossessed.
God is deeply moved by compassion and mercy for the poor and the needy in this world. Mercy is treating others better than they deserve to be treated and sparing them from harm. Our guest speaker, Jim Cantelon, provides this insight: “I talk a lot about righteousness and justice, but the forgotten part of this equation is often mercy. Simply put - God requires us to love mercy. It’s easier said than done. Being merciful takes a lot of maturity; especially in a culture that jumps on weaknesses. Just watch the evening news today and try and find even a thread of mercy. Most of us have a judgment reflex when somebody around us falls. But the Kingdom of God requires something completely different - we are to love mercy… Can you imagine if the Church stood up and decided to exercise mercy as Christ called us to? Think of the orphans and widows in your community, the poor and destitute, the single moms - and in addition to that, the millions of children orphaned by HIV/AIDS. What could the body of Christ accomplish if it was truly mobilized with mercy? I’ll tell you - transformation would occur. The Body of Christ would rise up like we’ve never seen before.”
According to the prophet Isaiah, what pleases the heart of God? What would the world look like if all of God’s children helped the oppressed in these ways? Discuss ideas and strategies of how we can live-out these things that please God.
What character qualities does God want to see in His people? Are these qualities optional? Explain and apply each characteristic from this passage. Discuss different ways you can show mercy to others: your family, your friends, and strangers.
What does a life of “faith without works” look like in today’s world? Can we be Christians without actively helping those in need? Why or why not?
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Take it by force
As I was reading through Joshua chapters 11 and 12, I was again struck with the totality and even the brutality by which the Israelites took the Promised Land. They didn’t mess around. God gave them the land and told them to completely destroy the enemy. When the Israelites obeyed God, He gave them victory after victory.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Making peace with the enemy
The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath. – Joshua 9:14-15
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Who’s the miracle worker?
When we pray for the sick and they are made well, have we just done a miracle? If this becomes a common occurrence, can we call ourselves healers? Do we ever really do miracles or is it really God who has done a miracle through us?
"Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.” - Acts 2:22
Friday, March 27, 2009
Influence
Big Idea:
Just as Christ influenced the world for all eternity, each of our lives is meant to have significant influence on the world around us - both locally and globally.
Summary:
God has called us to be good stewards of our lives and the gifts He has given us – relationships, time, talent, and treasure. But none of those things may matter as much as the influence that God has entrusted to you. Influence is so important because it is the power to affect how someone develops, acts, or thinks. Influence shapes our world and can affect the eternal destiny of people. This is why influence requires careful stewardship. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to influence the world for the sake of Christ, His gospel, and His kingdom. Therefore, we must become the most influential people on the planet. Having a heart for the world is making the commitment to become a person of influence who stands for righteousness, truth, and justice. In fact, neglecting to influence the world around you for the sake of Christ is to completely miss the calling of Christ on your life.
How can we best steward this gift of influence? The Bible teaches us the following three principles. First, we must recognize our influence. Everyone has influence. We are far more influential than we realize. Each of us has some measure of influence over every person we come in contact with in life. Second, we must exercise our influence; otherwise, it is irrelevant. Influence is like money. We can use it for good, we can use it for evil, or we can save it and never use it. The way that we influence the world is through compassionate engagement - through loving, giving, serving and sharing the Good News of the Gospel. Third, we must maximize our influence. There are two legitimate reasons for expanding your sphere of influence – ministry and missions. The enemy is working hard every day to maximize and expand his influence of unrighteousness in the world. Therefore, as Christ followers, we must be about expanding and maximizing our kingdom of God influence. If we do this, we will make a difference in this world and the world to come.
Matthew 5:13-16
This passage encourages us to be influential. Give examples of how we can be salt and light. How does Christ look upon those who neglect their influence? What is the result of us exercising our influence? Share a specific story of what has happened as a result of letting your light shine.
Daniel 3:13-30
How did these guys influence a nation? Discuss how your obedience to God’s commands can influence others.
1 Peter 5:8-11
Discuss how the Devil is exercising his influence in the world today. What is the result of his influence? How can our influence make a difference? Discuss ways we can maximize our influence in the world.
Taking Action: Exercise your influence in a real way by engaging individually or as a group in the upcoming “Project Homeless Connect,” by signing up for a short-term missions trip, or use your financial resources to send someone else. Contact Katie in or Outreach Department this week.
Ministry Time
Thursday, March 26, 2009
One Degree of Seperation
Big Idea:
“I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”
Summary:
According to what the Bible teaches us, there is only one degree of separation between us and every other human being on the planet. That one degree is the person of Jesus, who not only stands between God and man as the only true mediator, but He also stands as the only common denominator that draws us together in healthy community in spite of our vast differences. Jesus underscores this truth when he tells us that how we treat one another, especially the needy and broken, is how we treat Him. In fact, the very acts of mercy toward others, which we are called to perform every day of our lives, are the evidence of the reality of our salvation?
If this is true, then what keeps us from serving those in need? Here are five common objections. 1) I don’t feel called. This objection is based on the faulty belief that one has to be “called” to serve the world. You don’t need a call when you’ve been given a command: “Go into all the world.” In fact, you need a permission slip from Jesus to stay home. 2) I don’t know how. However, God said that HE would guide and direct you. He will be with you when you step out in obedience and show His love to others. You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be willing enough to actually “go”. 3) I don’t have time. It is often not convenient to serve, but we can always find time for what we value. 4) I don’t know if I can make a difference. All of us can, because all of us have been called by Christ to make a difference. We can do all things through Christ. We can go, we can pray, and we can provide financial support. 5) I don’t want to. This is simply your selfish flesh talking and isn’t consistent with a heart that has been changed by Christ. Say no to your flesh and say yes to the will of your Savior. Go and be His hands and feet.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Matthew 25:36-40
What is the fate of the two groups? What are the standards by which the two groups are judged? Whose needs had they met or failed to meet? Did everyone get a fair chance? Imagine yourself in each group and discuss what would be going through your mind. What are some specific actions that can be taken in meeting each of the needs mentioned?
Isaiah 58:6-9
What are God’s promises to those who take action and help the oppressed, the hungry, and the marginalized? How do our actions in this area affect our relationship with God and our prayer life?
Matthew 28:18-20
Is sharing Christ’s love and compassion to others optional? Why can we confidently do this and know that we will be successful? Discuss practical ways that you can overcome the objections mentioned in the summary of this study.
Taking Action: At some point this week you will find yourself just one degree away from Jesus as you look into the eyes of the broken and the hurting. Don’t turn them away. Treat them as if they were Jesus. Share your experience with the group.
Ministry Time
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
A BIG Rock
“For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,” - 1 Timothy 2:5.Jesus said it this way, “I am the way, the Truth, and the Life … no one comes to the Father except by me.” John 14
Believe it or not, this is not the popular view in the world today. In fact, the truth of only one God and Jesus being our only way to Him is even a fuzzy concept in the minds of many “Christians” today. Check out this scary statistic: 57% of evangelicals believe that other religions can lead to eternal life? Whether or not this is a completely accurate statistic, the possibility of any significant number of evangelicals believing that there is any way other than Christ is troubling.
Claiming that there can be another way other than Christ is to nullify His sacrifice. It is to spit on the cross. Jesus said, “if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins” (John 8:24).
It might be politically and socially correct to say that God could make another way for people of other religions, but God has clearly told us in His Word that the only way is through Christ – PERIOD! Paul very clearly says that if you want access to the Father for now and for eternity, then you had better know the Son – Jesus Christ. When I say know – I don’t mean know of Him, but rather KNOW him as you savior and your Lord. Again, “There is only ONE GOD and THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO THE FATHER, BUT THROUGH HIS SON – JESUS CHRIST!”
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
It's a battle, not a cuddle session
In his first letter to Timothy, Paul encourages him to “fight the good fight.” – 1 Timothy 1:18. Paul also talks about himself fighting the good fight in his second letter to Timothy when he stated, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” - 2 Timothy 4:7. The concept of the fight is a common view that Paul has of the Christian life. Paul doesn’t talk about the Christian life as a walk, a stroll, or a cuddle session; rather, he speaks of it as a fight, a war, a race, something full of intense action.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Get out of the bubble
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…” 1 Timothy 1:15
We must be people who are continuing the work of Christ by presenting Christ and His saving grace to people who need it. Let’s get out of the bubble and be about our Saviors business. Let’s share the good news with the lost, the dying, the ignorant, the unbelieving, the sinners.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Becoming a poster child
The Apostle Paul called himself the worst of sinners. He called himself this because he was a really bad guy who violently persecuted Christians. However, because of God’s strength, mercy, and grace and Paul’s faithfulness to Christ, he was transformed into an Apostle that would carry the gospel message of Christ to the ends of the world and write half of the New Testament. (read about it in 1 Timothy 1:12-16)
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Honor's Reward
Honoring others is not a popular theme promoted in the world today. The spiritual law of honor is often overlooked by a self-focused and critical generation. However, our decision to integrate the principle of honor into every aspect of life, both functionally and spiritually, will significantly affect us today and for eternity. The Greek word used for honor in the Bible is best defined as “valuing”. To show someone honor is to treat him or her as valuable, precious, and esteemed. We are called by God’s Word to extend honor to our Creator, those in authority over us, our peers, and those who are under our authority. This extends to the four areas of New Testament delegated authority: civil, family, social, and church.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Don’t get the cart before the horse
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Crazy Love
Big Idea:
Your relationships will mold you and contribute to who you are: however, it is your relationship with Jesus Christ and the impact of His crazy love that will impact and forever change your very soul and spirit.
God’s crazy love for us is commonly referred to as “agape” love. The Greek language has three words for love, which enable us to distinguish agape love from passionate devotion (eros) and warm affection (phileo). Agape love is a gracious, determined, and active interest in the true welfare of others, which is not deterred even by responses of hatred, cursing, and abuse, not limited by calculation of results, but based solely on the nature of God. It is crazy because it is love with no boundaries and no end.
Discuss how agape love is different from other types of love. How can these qualities of crazy love be demonstrated in our relationships? What makes it hard to show this kind of love? Why is it possible?
These passages show the intentionality of God’s love. Share how God has shown you His agape love. Discuss how we can follow Christ’s lead and intentionally show love to others. What does that look like?
What two principle outcomes of God’s love are presented in these passages? How do we know we have received God’s love? How do obedience and love relate to one another?
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Living above the snake line
God has enabled His children to live above the snake line. “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness" - 2 Peter 1:3. We should not fear the enemy because the work of Christ has given us victory over him. “I will not fear what the devil may bring me because I am a child of God.” Live for God, follow His precepts, know the authority you have been given in Christ Jesus, and live above the snake line.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Friendlationships - Part 3
Do you want your relationships to go to a whole new level? Do you desire deep, meaningful, and life-transforming relationships? Then you are looking for the dimension of covenant.
Why do people feel so lonely, disconnected, and empty in a hi-tech world where we seem to be in touch with more people than ever? Maybe it is because much of the world is settling for imitations rather than pursuing real relationships. Meaningful relationships require serious investment and commitment. The Bible reveals that the dimension of a relationship that makes it special is the covenant. A covenant is the commitment to love and be faithful in all things and at all times. A covenant in the Biblical setting was a pledge to death and was cut in blood. Can you imagine being loved so much that someone would pledge himself to die for the security of your well being? Staggering, isn’t it? In His love, Jesus cut a covenant with us and freely gave His life for us. This covenant also serves as an example of the kind of relationships we are to have with other members of God’s family - the church. These relationships should be the richest and most rewarding we have in life. They should be filled with love and compassion, grace and mercy, encouragement and affection.
Do you have this kind of covenant relationship with another person? If so, please share how it works and what it means to you. How have you shown covenant friendship to others?
Have you witnessed or experienced first-hand a difference in friendship between Christ followers that is not present with others? Why does the way Christians treat one another matter? Give examples of how our relationships with believers can be enhanced.
How did Jesus demonstrate a covenant relationship toward us? Explain why we can commit to a covenant relationship without the other persons commitment? Discuss the kind of relationships that require the dimension of covenant.
Friday, February 27, 2009
A night of creativity
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Friendlationships - Part 2
Relationships are a gift from God, but when they go sideways things can become painful and toxic. However, dealing with toxic relationships in our own strength and wisdom will typically almost always make things worse. This is why we need the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the patience and love of Christ, and the grace of God.
Relationship with others is one of the most powerful forces in the universe outside of God. They can bring us indescribable joy or unbelievable despair. They can make us whole or fragment our souls. They hold the potential to coach us into destiny or restrain us from our life’s purpose. When ruled by selfish desires, relationships are the greatest challenge you will encounter in life, but when governed by the Word of God, relationships are a treasured joy in life. The relationships that affect us the most are the ones that are closest to us. When these are toxic, they can have a significant affect on us emotionally and ultimately spiritually.
What does this statement from Jesus indicate should be our first step in the process of detoxifying a relationship? Is Jesus advocating mean-spirited rebuke of your toxic friends? Discuss ways in which we can lovingly help remove the speck from our brother’s eye.
Why do you think the apostles responded the way they did when Jesus told them to forgive over and over again? How does your willingness to forgive affect your relationship with God? Discuss how forgiveness has been instrumental in detoxifying one of your relationships.
Why is love and patience so important in a relationship? How has someone spoken the truth to you in love? Have you seen relationships end because of a lack of patience? Discuss how can we be patient and loving without being a doormat for abuse? How does the character of Christ encourage us in this area of relationships?
Friendlationships - Part 1
Friendship is one of the greatest gifts in life. The success or failure of our friendships will be greatly determined by the most important relationship in our lives – our relationship with God.
From the beginning of time, man has longed for friendship. Even in the Garden of Eden when Adam walked and talked with God in perfect relationship, the longing for human companionship still existed. Adam’s life was incomplete without the companionship and fellowship of another human being. He craved it. And every human being since then has struggled with the innate craving for human companionship. God created man in His image, knowing that for man to be spiritually, emotionally, and even physically healthy, man needed more than just his relationship with God, he needed relationships with other image bearers. This shows us that our craving for relationship with others doesn’t necessarily diminish our passion for God because God created us this way. We were designed to live in relationship with other people, and when we are deprived of those relationships, we feel empty and incomplete. However, these relationships can only be as healthy as your relationship with God. In fact, relationships become contaminated without God. God created you with a capacity, a craving and the power of choice, but it takes His involvement to keep you from contamination.
How have you benefited from friendships? Describe how your relationship with others has made you more effective and useful to God. What role does God play in your close relationships? How does this help the relationship?
How do our relationships affect us? Share how relationships have helped you and how they have hurt you. What do you look for in a friend? Why?
How did Jesus model true friendship? Have you experienced this type of friendship with others? How can we practically lay our lives down for our friends? How does Jesus say we can show him friendship? How does your vertical relationship with God affect your horizontal relationship with others?
Sunday, February 22, 2009
The fullness of ministry
18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, 19 to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." - Luke 4:18-19
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Fighting the Devil?
The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work. - 1 John 3:8
5These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. 7As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' 8Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. - Matthew 10:5-8
17And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons - Mark 16:17
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Innocent people can get hurt
They had violated the ways of God and a man lost his life. We must handle the things of God His way. We must not rely on our own understanding and do it our own way. We must not compromise and believe the lie that "the end justifies the means." We must do it God's way or innocent people will get hurt.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Is Jesus Your Hope? (Audio Teaching)
1 Timothy 1:1-2, City of Grace Church (February 4, 2009)
Monday, February 09, 2009
Taking the Baton
Taking the Baton, City of Grace Church (January 21, 2009)
Sunday, February 08, 2009
God's kingdom advances
When I was in Ghana, I visited the village of Ohawu with my friend Pastor Emmanuel Fiagbedzi. This village was about 6 miles from the village of Afife where Pastor Emmanuel pastors his church. Several people travel from Ohawu to Afife to attend church because there is no church in their village. They travel the 6 miles by foot, bicycle, or motorcycle. While in Ohawu, Emmanuel and I discussed the possibility of planting a church in this village. We got so excited and we began to plan. When I returned to Arizona, I discussed this opportunity with a close friend of mine who immediately funded the construction of the modest structure and the first-years salary of the pastor of this church plant.
This week, the church was planted and the village of Ohawu has a place to worship Jesus Christ the Savior of the world. Hallelujah! Many came to Christ this week in Ohawu as they held a three-day crusade. Additionally, one of the village chiefs received physical healing from the Lord. God is showing Himself powerful to the people of Ohawu. Pray for this new church. Pray for this village. Pray for this new pastor, David, who has been sent by Pastor Emmanuel to pastor this church plant.
“Pastor Eric,New souls for the Kingdom of God! Glory be to His Name! We saw many touched by the power of the Holy Spirit during our second night of services. The crowds grow with each passing night and the hunger for God builds in the hearts. God moved among the old and young. Tonight we look forward to another great harvest. We saw the demons flee at the mighty Name of Jesus. Praise the Lord! God bless you. The feature presentation of the night was "The Passion" and it stirred hearts to come to Jesus! We even pulled up benches to allow them to sit and be ministered to. A great harvest has been gathered over the last three nights. Tomorrow morning we will meet at the newly erected chapel structure. We have assembled canopies to contain the overflow for tomorrow's service. God is moving in Ohawu. Praise His Marvelous Name! God bless” - Pastor Emmanuel, Feb. 7, 2009
Saturday, February 07, 2009
The African Anointing Transcript
The Lord spoke to Samuel the prophet. Go to the family of Jesse. Anoint his head with oil. Let him become the King of My Land. I stand in that anointing today. I stand as a servant of the Most High God, who has never disappointed me before. I walk with Him in power. He has displayed His glory over my ministry, over my life, over the (African) nations. Mighty God of Israel, we glory in His name, the God of Abraham, the God of Elijah, the God of Moses, the God of Isaac and Jacob. You never change. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever.
You are the apple of His eye; You are the weapon in the hands of the Lord. You are favored in the land. You are the 1st, not last. You are the head, not the tail. The eyes of the Lord is upon you; the (lost) are with you. May you go in the power. May you go in the power. May you go in the power. You are claimed for the sake of the gospel.
I release an anointing on your wife, O God. For yours is the glory. For yours is the glory - the power. Display your glory; display your glory; display your glory over her life, O God. Do it for Your name’s sake.
Father, the angel I saw guide them, let that angel continue to guide them, defend them, in Jesus’ name, Amen. Let everybody say, “Amen.”
Be Courageous, President Barack Obama
Friday, February 06, 2009
The African Anointing
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Faithfulness matters to God
Saul died because he was unfaithful to the LORD; he did not keep the word of the LORD and even consulted a medium for guidance, and did not inquire of the LORD. So the LORD put him to death and turned the kingdom over to David son of Jesse. - 1 Chronicles 10:13-14
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Our Hope
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope... - 1 Timothy 1:1
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Redeeming Time
Big Idea:
The Bible reminds us about the brevity of life, but it also teaches us about the urgency of life so that we do not squander our God-ordained opportunities. We are called to live life with a sense of kingdom priority.
Summary:
Time is one of the most precious gifts given to us by God. No matter our social or financial status, we all have the same amount of time given to us in each day – 24 hours. Using our time unwisely can have devastating effects and prevent us from fulfilling our kingdom purpose in this life. Interestingly enough, we don't see a significant emphasis on saving time or managing time in the Bible. However, God does call us to REDEEM time. What does it mean to redeem time? Simply put, it means that we take back our time from Satan, the world, and sin. A life spent in sin or chasing after the things of this world is a wasted life filled with missed opportunities. We know that what we do today echoes throughout eternity. Therefore, using our time wisely will not only result in satisfaction in this life, but also rewards and eternal life with God. We must make a conscious effort to use our time properly and to take advantage of our God-given opportunities.
We can redeem our time by getting our priorities right and allocating our precious time to things that matter. Jesus told us that the two things that matter most are loving God and loving others. Therefore, we should be spending our time with Christ and doing things that bring Him glory, while also showing others love. In fact, time not given to God and His purposes will often be stolen by Satan, resulting in discontent and squandered opportunities. Have you squandered God-given opportunities? Have you wasted some of the precious time given to you by God? Here's some good news; there is still a chance for you to redeem your time – today! Christ came to redeem, and in Him, we can redeem our time. Take it back and capitalize on the plans and purposes God has laid out specifically for you. Live the rest of your life with a sense of priority.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Ephesians 5:15-17
Contrast how the “wise” spend their time versus the “unwise”. Discuss how we can learn what the Lord wants us to do. According to the Bible, is there a place for “down-time” in our lives? What should that down-time look like? Do you have any God-given opportunities that you have been neglecting?
Colossians 4:2-6
What do our actions towards others have to do with redeeming time? What kind of opportunities should we be looking for? Discuss opportunities you have had to redeem time by ministering or helping others.
Matthew 25:14-30
How does this parable of the talents teach us to wisely use opportunities in the limited time we have been given? What is the result of continuing to disregard the gifts and opportunities God has given us? Who suffers when we don't redeem time and invest it in the kingdom of God?
Taking Action: Spend some time this week reviewing your use of time. Write out how you are spending your time. Don't let your time keep slipping away. Identify time that can be captured for His kingdom purposes and REDEEM it.
Ministry Time
Friday, January 30, 2009
God gives and He takes away
We just got done reading about how God gave the Israelites, including the half-tribe of Manasseh, the victory over their enemies because they cried out to Him and He answered their prayers. However, the very next passage in 1 Chronicles chapter 5 talks about how the half-tribe of Mannaseh was then sent into slavery by God Himself. How does that happen? How does God give someone victory and then take it away so decisively?
23The people of the half-tribe of Manasseh were numerous; they settled in the land from Bashan to Baal Hermon, that is, to Senir (Mount Hermon). 24 These were the heads of their families: Epher, Ishi, Eliel, Azriel, Jeremiah, Hodaviah and Jahdiel. They were brave warriors, famous men, and heads of their families. 25 But they were unfaithful to the God of their fathers and prostituted themselves to the gods of the peoples of the land, whom God had destroyed before them. 26 So the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, who took the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh into exile. He took them to Halah, Habor, Hara and the river of Gozan, where they are to this day. - 1 Chronicles 5:23-26
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
The battle cry
The Bible very clearly compares the Christian life to a battle. In a battle, the stakes are high. It is life or death. Everything is on the line. Therefore, we must approach the Christian life with intentionality and know how to battle our enemy – Satan. Let's not be clueless.
They were helped in fighting them, and God handed the Hagrites and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. He answered their prayers, because they trusted in him. - 1 Chronicles 5:20
Sunday, January 25, 2009
God promotes the humble
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Who's in control, God or your emotions?
Big Idea:
God has given us the ability to feel emotions. It is what makes us feel alive. However, we must not allow our emotions to control us. Rather, we must submit our emotions to the Lordship of Christ and let the truth of God’s Word be our guide.
Summary:
God created humanity with an amazing emotional capacity. The Book of Psalms records the emotional rollercoaster ride of King David, the man after God’s own heart. When he’s happy, he feels happiness to the core of his being. And when he is sad, he embraces his despair without reservation. He feels deeply. And at times, his feelings lead him astray. But somewhere along this journey, David seems to discover that as important as feelings are, they are only one part of his total being, and certainly not the most important part. The emotional aspect of our being coexists with our intellectual, physical and spiritual aspects. Every person will build the foundation of his or her life upon one of these four foundations: the emotional, the intellectual, the physical, or the spiritual. And among those foundations, feelings are important but they are not the most important because you are not your feelings. For that matter, you are not your body or your intellect. You are fundamentally a spiritual being.
There are three dangers when we build our lives on our feelings. First, feelings can be distorted. The enemy likes to manipulate our circumstances and our senses in an attempt to throw us off balance. Second, feelings can be imported. Sometimes we have a way of feeling what has been forced on us rather what is truly within us. And third, feelings can be aborted; they can change in a moment. The danger of building our lives on our feelings is that we may not feel the same way about a situation tomorrow as we feel today. Feelings come and feelings go. As Christians, the way we must deal with our feelings is by choosing to believe God’s Word over what we hear, feel, or even experience. Our emotions are the servants of our will. Our feelings are the fruit of what we believe. So instead of struggling to change our feelings, we must begin to work on our belief system and our feelings will follow course.
Discussion Questions: (read the scriptures & discuss)
Philippians 4:6-9
How do our thoughts affect our emotions and ultimately how we approach life? In addition to prayer, discuss other practical things that we can do to guard our hearts and our minds.
Romans 12:2
How do we renew our minds and keep our emotions from running away and conforming us to this world? Share something that you have read recently in the Bible that has transformed your mind and thus kept your emotions in check.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5
How do you know if an emotion is healthy or unhealthy? How can we take our thoughts and emotions captive? How have your emotions lied to you? How does the truth of God’s Word speak to those issues and areas in your life? (Example: Your emotions might say you are worthless. But, God’s Word says you are fearfully and wonderfully made.)
Taking Action: Spend time reading God’s Word every morning this week. Meditate on what you have read, and ask the Holy Spirit how this Truth can form your thinking and direct your emotions throughout each day.
Ministry Time