Category: Sunday Message

Covenant Names of God Series

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Pastor Jed has taken us through a terrific series looking at the names of God. Each of the messages can be found below with the audio and Jed’s study sheets. I’ve also included links to Scripture that Jed references on his study sheets. Those links will take you to the corresponding verse(s) at Bible Gateway. Praying this series blesses you as much as it has blessed us here in Colona.

Covenant Names of God, pt. 1

Hebrews 11:3, Hebrews 1:3. He sustains all things by his powerful word. See also Philippians 2 – The Name of “Jesus.” 

A name “identifies” someone; it carries significance. meaning, and history. A name reflects personal identity, familial connections, and cultural heritage. Parents often choose their children’s names for their meanings. God chose names in the OT: Adam, Eve, Abram/Abraham, Sarai/Sarah, Isaac. Also, the Names/titles of Jesus.  

Why does God have so many names? It is His means of revelation: revealing Himself, His character, His attributes, His will, His works, etc. so that we might know Him, acknowledge Him, and worship Him. His names reflect God’s relationship with humanity. His names are a PLEDGE of Himself to humanity! 

Genesis 1:1 – El – Hebrew for “God” which occurs over 248 times in the OT. El is the root word for Elohim which is the very first name/title of God in the Bible. It  describes God’s greatness and glory and reveals His power and authority. The second part “ohim” points to His creativity/creative power. Shown in Genesis 1-3.  

He is the God who makes covenants with those He has created. A covenant involves a binding agreement between two persons. God spoke His covenants.  

  1. Genesis 5: 23-24, 27 – Methuselah means “Man of the dart” or “His death shall mean judgment.” He lived for 969 years and then came the flood, God’s judgment upon mankind. After the flood, the rainbow was a promise of His covenant with Noah to never destroy the earth again with water.  
  1. Genesis 13:14-17 – Elohim made a covenant with Abraham. Psalm 105:8-10  
  1. Isaiah 42: 1-2, 6-7 – The New and Better Covenant through Jesus Christ. Elohim made this covenant with all humanity through His Son who was also a perfect man. Jesus is the Mediator of this new covenant. Hebrews 8:6 and 9:15. It was a covenant sealed with blood, with His life. Last Supper: “This is the cup of the New Covenant in my blood.” (Matthew 26:28, Mark 14:24, Luke 22:20 and I Corinthians 11:25).  

Other references: Psalm 91:2-4, Jeremiah 32: 38-40, I Kings 8:23, Psalm 57:1-3 

Covenant Names of God, pt. 2

God has many Names. This is one of the ways that God REVEALS Himself, His character, attributes, will, works, etc. so that we might know Him more fully. His names are also a PLEDGE and a PROMISE of Himself to humankind.  

El – is Hebrew for “God, the One True God of Israel.” 

Elohim – Sovereign, Mighty Creator, Covenant Maker Genesis 1:1

Elohe-Israel – The Personal God of Israel Genesis 32:28

Elohay – The LORD MY God Isaiah 43:1-3a

Eloheenu – The LORD OUR God Exodus 33:13

Elyon  – The LORD Most High  Psalm 47:2 

EL SHADDAI – the All Sufficient One. Derived from (a) field which produces crops in abundance. (b) breast, i.e., the Many-breasted One meaning abundant provision, nourishment, and productiveness. God shows His all-sufficiency by turning nature around and providing miracles that are contrary to natural events.   

ADONAI – The Master, Owner, LORD who owns His people, His servants, and protects, provides for, and directs them. This name signifies ownership and reflects our responsibilities to Him as His servants who are owned by God. We must allow Him the room to control our lives, and we then submit to, obey, and serve Him.   

Exodus 21:1-6 – a “bond servant,” a freely voluntary servant for life. Adonai is the God who totally owns His people and whose servants have chosen to serve Him because they love Him. He protects, provides for and directs them. Beautiful illustration of the Father-Son relationship between God the Father and the Son.  

Philippians 2: 6-8. Consider Jesus’ struggle in the garden of Gethsemane. 

Romans 10:9-10 – Jesus is our Savior and Redeemer but must also be our Adonai. Other scriptures related to Adonai: Psalm 123:1-2; John 13:13-16; I Corinthians 3:5-6; Colossians 1:24-25; Matthew 10:38; and Luke 9:23-24.

Covenant Names of God, pt. 3

Exodus 3:10-15   Yahweh (Hebrew) which was the common form of the name of God used by the Jews. Verse 14 – Derived from the Hebrew chavah which means to live, to be, or being. Translated “I AM THAT I AM,” or “I WILL BE WHAT I WILL BE.” This name brings Him forth (a) in the present tense, the God of the Now, and (b) in a personal way: Who He is – the One True God who is self-existent, unchangeable (James 1:17, Psalm 102:27), and eternal. He is the intimate God Who is ever revealing Himself through His Names, Word, and Spirit. 

Jehovah is the Latin derivation of the Hebrew name Yahweh which precedes other Names of God that reveal His role. I AM eternally exists to be our ____________.   

  • Jehovah Rapha/Rophe – I AM the LORD your HEALER.                

Exodus 15:26  – Revealed Himself as Jehovah Rapha and Numbers 21:4-8 – the snake on the standard is a symbol of Jesus on the cross because He became a curse for us. This Name finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. See Acts 10:38; Isaiah 53:4-5; Galatians 3:13-14.  

  • Jehovah Shalom – I AM the LORD your PEACE. I am your Peace.  

Judges 6:22-24  –  Revealed Himself as Peace is a Person and He is Peace. He is called the God of Peace as seen in Romans 15:13, 33; 16:20; II Corinthians 13:11; Philippians 4:9; I Thessalonians 5:23; II Thessalonians 3:16; and Hebrews 13:20). He is Peace, He gives us peace (John 14:27), and He gave Jesus to be our peace with God (Romans 5:1) and our peace with one another (Ephesians 2:14-15, 17).   

  • Jehovah Tsidkenu  –   I AM the LORD your RIGHTEOUSNESS.            

Jeremiah 23:5-6; 33:15-16 – Revealed Himself as Jehovah Tsidkenu.  

Romans 3:10-18, 21-24 – We are all unrighteous and fall short of the glory of God. We cannot earn His righteousness through ourselves or our own good works. Jehovah Tsidkenu made it possible for us to be righteous in His sight through faith in Christ Jesus (See also Matthew 6:33; I Corinthians 1:30; II Corinthians 5:21).

Covenant Names of God, pt. 4

John 3:16 – Imagine Yahweh/Jehovah, the Great “I AM THAT I AM” had a One and Only Beloved Son and that He freely gave His Son to us and for us. John 3:16 and Matthew 3:17  

Colossians 1:15-20 and Ephesians 1:19-23 describe this Son in His fullness, His glory, His power, His position of authority – all of Who He is and what He has. “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him” and “raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”  

Philippians 2:9-11 – “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name.” 

John 1:14, 16 – The Great I am Jehovah summed up everything that He that He has revealed through His many Covenant Names and put Himself in the “package” or form of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Name “Jesus Christ” itself embodies and encompasses the entire scope, significance, and power of God’s Names.  

Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua, which mean “Jehovah is Salvation” or “Jehovah Saves.” Christ (Greek) and Messiah (Hebrew) both mean “Anointed One.” In John 18: 1-3, Jesus declared “I AM” – Yahweh/Jehovah. 

Seven times Jesus said “I AM” in the New Testament: 

  • John 6:35 – “I am the Bread of Life.”   
  • John 8:12 – “I am the Light of the World.”  
  • John 10:7 – “I am the Gate for the Sheep.”  
  • John 10:14 – “I am the Good Shepherd.”  
  • John 10:25 – “I am the Resurrection and the Life.”  
  • John 14:6 – “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”  
  • John 15:7 – “I am the True Vine.”  

Covenant Names of God, pt. 5

Jesus Christ is the Name that is above every name in heaven and on earth (Ephesians 1:19-23; Philippians 2:6-11; Colossians 1:15-20; Matthew 28:18).    The Name of Jesus is a “covenant name.” i.e., “Jehovah is Salvation.”  

Acts 2:33-39 and Acts 4:12 – The Greek noun for salvation is sozo.

His Name encompasses and sums up every Covenant Name of God and includes salvation from everything that sin plagued us and provides love, grace, mercy, promise, health, power, authority, dominion over the devil, etc.  

II Peter 1:2-4 – Reassures the believer that they are not missing anything essential for living a life that pleases God. As a part of our inheritance in Christ, the Father has given us access to and use of His Name: Jesus Christ.  

The Name of Jesus Christ:  

Covenant Names of God, pt. 6

  • John 1:18 – Jesus Christ was Himself God, was at God’s side, and is in closest relationship with the Father.   
  • John 10:30, 38 – He was One with the Father.  – “I and the Father are one” and “the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.” 
  • John 3:16-17 – The Father gave Him to/for humanity.   
  • John 1:14 – He came from the Father.   
  • In the Gospels, Jesus introduced and spoke of Almighty God as His “Father” which was often offensive to religious Jews.  
  • Matthew 6:7-9 – He taught His disciples to pray “Our Father” and to relate to God as their Father.  
  • John 20:17 – After His death and resurrection, He said, “I am returning to my Father and your Father.”   

Jesus discusses His relationship to the Father in John 14:6-12, When we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we become “born again” because God the Father gives us a second spiritual birth (John 3:3-8, II Corinthians 5:17) by His Holy Spirit. God literally becomes our “Heavenly Father”, and we become His very children (Ephesians 3:14-15; I John 3:1). Unlike many earthly fathers, our Heavenly Father is now a perfect, accessible, close, loving, kind, forgiving, trustworthy “Parent” who is intimately acquainted with us, helps us, answers our prayers and wants us to know Him. (Matthew 7:7-11, John 17:3, Eph. 1:17).  

II Corinthians 1:19-22 – The Father gives us the Holy Spirit to show His seal of ownership of us and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, as a guarantee of what is to come.  

Romans 8:14-18, Galatians 4:6-7 – God sent the “Spirit of Sonship” into our hearts to dwell there. The Holy Spirit causes us to cry “Abba” to our Father which is a very tender, intimate name to address God, like “Daddy” or “Papa.” 

Covenant Names of God, pt. 7

REVIEW: John 1:18 – Part of the ministry of Jesus Christ was to make known God as our Father.  John 17:3 – Knowing the Father and the Son is eternal life. Ephesians 1: 17 – The Father has given us the Holy Spirit to know Him better.  

Who is the Father? He is the Great Elohim, El Shaddai, Adonai, Yahweh/Jehovah, the God of all creation, of heaven and earth who wants to be our spiritual “Parent” and be intimately acquainted with us, help us, answer our prayers, and wants us to know Him. In fact, His nature is LOVE and He is LOVE Himself (1 John 4:8,16).  He has poured out His own love abundantly upon us (Romans 5:5; I John 3:1-2).   

He is depicted most accurately in the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-24. “But while he (the son) was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him” V. 20. The Father clothed him in a robe. put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet, killed the fatted calf, and feasted and celebrated because “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found”  V. 24. 

II Corinthians 1:21-22 – The Father loves us so much that in His Son Christ Jesus, “He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us (“Adonai”), and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”                                                 

Romans 8:14-18 and Galatians 4:6-7 – To mark His parentage of us (i.e., His “adoption papers”), the Father poured the “Spirit of Sonship” into our hearts to dwell there. The Holy Spirit allows us to cry “Abba” to our Father which is a very tender, intimate name to address God, like “Daddy” or “Papa.”  As the children of God, we also can led by the Spirit of God (See Romans 8).   

Our Father has given us an eternal inheritance in the kingdom of God. With Jesus death, burial, resurrection and ascension to the Father, this inheritance has been enacted and passed onto us (Matthew 25:34; Acts 20:32; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 1:3-6, 13-14; Colossians 1:12-13; Hebrews 9:15; and I Peter 1:3-5).  

Communion & Our Purpose

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Alan is back and began his spring/summer teaching by giving a message on Communion and Our Purpose. To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below. I’ve also included some notes and link to Scripture he references.

Communion & Our Purpose

  • Intro: The Westminster Shorter Catechism is a tradition that was to be used by fathers to teach their children the important parts of the faith. It can still help us understand our purpose today.
    • What is the chief end of mankind?
      • to glorify God & to enjoy Him forever
        • we glorify Him by enjoying Him
        • what & who do we love most in life?
        • to glorify God is to love Him/to enjoy Him more than anything else in life
  • John 21
    • Peter had denied the Lord 3x; this story is now post-resurrection
    • v. 10-17
      • v. 15 – what are “these”
        • maybe the other men
        • maybe more than the other men do
        • maybe the fish (Peter’s profession/career)
        • Peter says that he has phileo (brotherly affection) for Jesus
      • How does Jesus ask Peter to show love?
        • Feed the sheep – serve
        • Peter served by becoming the leader of the Roman Church
    • v. 18 -25
      • serve, follow, sacrifice
        • how we glorify God
      • how much will you sacrifice for Him?
  • How do we glorify God & enjoy Him?
    • serve, follow, sacrifice
    • can’t do it of our own accord
      • doing it on our own is outward show – Pharisaical
      • empowerment through Christ living in you is the only way you can function in the image in which you were created
        • like a glove – without a hand in it, it has no purpose
  • When we take communion, we say we are taking in Christ.
    • The only one who ever lived as mankind was intended to live is Jesus.
    • Christ in us is the only way to live as God intended us to live.
    • common – union / communion teaches us that Jesus is the hand in the glove that leads us to function as we are supposed to function
      • the cup
        • Matthew 26:36-46
          • prayed 3x
          • what is the cup?
          • Jesus took the cup of God’s wrath upon Himself
            • spiritual death is separation from God
            • Jesus was separated from God so we could be reunited with Him
        • Luke 22:20
          • the New Covenant in My blood
          • the Old Covenant (Mosaic Covenant) – the Law
            • sacrifices to temporarily atone for sin
            • Jesus was the once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10)
              • we don’t have to sacrifice animals or do penance
              • repentance (new covenant)
              • the law is written on your heart (Jeremiah 31:31-40)
  • John 17:3 – Eternal Life is to know Jesus and the Father who sent Him
    • what is to know Him?
      • not just knowing about Him
      • communing with Him
  • John 6:53-65 – the visual of communion
    • Our purpose in life is to love Him above all else but we can’t do that without having Him in us – that is the point of communion.

The Devil’s Best Kept Secret

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Since Alan is in Texas for the winter, Terry has taken the teaching reins for the next few months. He began with a four-part series on hell that he titled, “The Devil’s Best Kept Secret.” All four parts are included below with audio, notes, and links to Bible Gateway for Scripture references. Be blessed!

Hell – The Devil’s Best Kept Secret, pt. 1

  1. Intro
    • The Watchman (Ezekiel 33)
    • As God’s Church, we need to deal in truth.
    • There are two sides to the Gospel:
      • accept Christ as your Savior – go to heaven
      • reject Christ – go to hell
    • Broad is the way that leads to destruction (Matthew 7)
    • Matthew 25:41 – hell was not made for man, but that doesn’t mean man can’t choose to go there.
  2. Six Questions God Answers About Hell
    • What is hell?
    • What goes on in hell?
    • What is the duration of hell?
    • What is the experience of hell?
    • What has God done to keep us from hell?
    • Why do we need hell?
  3. We Need to Know About Hell
    • Eternity should weigh on our minds.
    • Satan (the current ruler of this world) doesn’t want people to know about hell.
      • If you don’t know about it, you don’t know you need to be freed from it.
    • As a Christian, you can’t say you love someone, if you don’t tell them both sides of the Gospel.
  4. Things the Enemy Says About Hell
    • Satan says, “You will not surely die.”
      • There’s no real consequence for sin.
      • The devil is a liar and the father of lies. He was a liar & murderer from the beginning (John 8:44).
    • There is no hell.
      • Truth has no relevance in our society anymore.
      • Hell is only figurative.
    • Annihilationism
      • The idea that in hell you just burn up quickly & it’s all over.
    • Second Opportunity
      • Reincarnation until you get it right.
      • Purgatory
        • You loved ones can pay or do “penance” to get you out of this temporary holding place.
        • Jesus never speaks of purgatory.
    • Progressive Evolution
      • We just get better and better over time.
    • Good works will outweigh the bad.
    • God is love, so He’d never send someone to hell.
  5. Things Jesus Says About Hell
  6. Conclusion
    • We are eternal beings. He created us to be with Him in this temporary life and for eternity in Paradise.
    • Everything in this temporary life pales in comparison to eternity.

Hell – The Devil’s Best Kept Secret, pt. 2

  1. Review
    • Jesus tells us more about hell than anyone else in the Old Testament or the New Testament.
      • He doesn’t want anyone to perish. What love!
    • The devil’s greatest trick was convincing the world he didn’t exist.
      • The Bible tells us there was a rebellion in heaven (Isaiah 14, Ezekiel 28).
      • The devil & his minions are here to steal, kill, & destroy God’s creation.
    • If you’re not in the kingdom of light, you’re in the kingdom of darkness, doing Satan’s bidding (whether you want to or not).
    • Lies of the Enemy:
      • There is no punishment for sin.
      • There is no hell.
      • The grave is the end.
      • Annihilationism.
      • You get a second (or 3rd or 4th, etc.) chance.
      • God is only love.
      • There is no God.
  2. Luke 16:19-31
    • God lets us peek into hell & see what it’s like.
      • This is not a parable – names are given (unlike all other parables).
      • Matthew 6:19
      • Matthew 25:41
        • Anyone who is rebelling against God (denying or ignoring or rejecting Him) is bound for hell.
    • v. 20-21: Lazarus
      • poor
      • covered in sores, which the dogs licked
      • longed for even the crumbs from the rich man’s table
    • v. 22: Abraham’s Bosom
      • not heaven – Jesus hadn’t died and risen again yet
      • was a temporary holding place of comfort for those who died in faith before Christ’s sacrifice
      • 2 Corinthians 5:8 applies to believers today
    • v. 23: The Rich Man
      • in hell instantly
      • 1 Thessalonians 5:23 says we are made of spirit, soul, and body
        • spirit & soul go into eternity
          • either heaven or hell
        • body goes into the grave
      • he is conscious/cognizant
        • shows there is no “soul sleep” or “annihilation”
        • is being tormented
        • has memory of his “good life” (part of the torment)
      • sees Lazarus in Abraham’s bosom
    • v. 24: Rich Man Cries Out to Abraham
      • begs for Lazarus to help him (reversal of how things were in life)
        • new priorities (not wealth/power/status anymore)
          • wants just one fingertip of water to cool his tongue
          • is in agony in the flames
        • during his life, he loved his life, the world, and his sin more than God
          • our hearts are hard and dark apart from God
          • Ephesians 2:1-3 – three things set us against God
          • 2 Corinthians 4:4 – people don’t follow God because their minds are blinded
    • v. 25: Abraham Responds
      • “Remember”
        • implies your memories will be intact in eternity
      • reversal of v. 19
        • couldn’t take all his wealth/power/prominence with him to comfort him in eternity
      • not asking for a second chance to correct his wrong against God
      • Matthew 6:33
        • Our priority needs to be God & glorifying Him
        • He will meet our needs
        • This life is temporary
        • The believer thinks about eternity
    • v. 26: Great Gulf Fixed
      • you can’t go from hell to heaven or vice versa
    • v. 27-28: The Rich Man’s Concern
      • send someone to my loved ones, so they can avoid hell
    • v. 29-31: Abraham’s Response
      • they have the Word of God, they don’t need anything else
      • even if someone comes back from the dead, those of hard hearts still won’t believe
        • Jesus died & rose again, but people still deny Him
  3. The Church’s Job
    • to reach others for Christ
    • to share both sides of the Gospel
      • believe in Christ = eternity in with Him
      • deny Christ = eternity in torment

Hell – The Devil’s Best Kept Secret, pt. 3

  1. Intro
    • If they reject God in this lifetime, they will reject God for eternity.
      • The rich man didn’t ask for forgiveness (Luke 16:19-31).
  2. Aspects of Hell
    • Mark 9:48
      • the worm does not die
      • the fire is never quenched
    • Revelation 14:11
      • the smoke of their torment goes up forever
      • no rest day or night
      • 24/7 pain, torment, remembering
  3. This lifetime is all that we have to choose where we will go for eternity:
    • At the moment of death
      • the believer goes to rest in paradise with God
      • those who reject Christ go directly into the fires of hell
        • no rest for the soul
      • Luke 23:39-43
        • Even at the 11th hour, a soul can be saved.
  4. There are Two Deaths
  5. There are Two Resurrections
    • First Resurrection
    • Second Resurrection
      • Revelation 20:11-15 – Great White Throne Judgment
        • all are on an equal playing field before God
        • courtroom scene
          • books are opened
          • spiritually dead will be judged according to their deeds
      • To have your name written in the Book of Life is to believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior.
  6. Another Myth of the Devil
  7. Conclusion
    • We need to cry out to the Lord to mine the dark recesses of our souls, so we can be single-minded and focused on Him.
      • Let God bring us to victory over sin through the Refiner’s Fire.

Hell – The Devil’s Best Kept Secret, pt. 4

  1. Intro
    • One other aspect of hell
      • There are degrees of damnation (opposite the rewards for believers)
        • false teachers will go to deep darkness
      • Based on the amount of Light we receive (accountability)
  2. But God…
    • 2 Thessalonians 2:6-7 – One day the Restrainer will be removed
    • The most important thing God has done is to send His Son.
      • We messed up in Genesis 3
      • We are renewed at salvation
        • He restores our relationship with Him
      • God broke the power of sin in the life of a believer
        • by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit
      • God restored Paradise
        • it is in spirit form within believers today
        • will be manifest at His Second Coming
      • He adopted us as sons & daughters in the family of God
        • joint heirs with Jesus Christ
      • He gave us a new heart
        • central part/core of who we are
        • our hearts are deceitful apart from God (Jeremiah 17:9)
        • from our hearts comes wickedness (Matthew 15:18)
        • He takes out our heart of stone and replaces it with a heart of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26)
  3. What is taking place now?
  4. Our Duty
    • The Church is supposed to sound the alarm about the fires of hell.
    • We need to let our loved ones know the truth.
    • We are watchmen set on the wall, and we need to do our part, to help rescue the perishing.
    • To do this, we need to seek God first and always (Matthew 6:33).

The Power of the Resurrection

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Alan took us through a short series on the power and importance of the resurrection. The three messages are all posted below, with audio & notes for each. Praying they bless you!

The Power of the Resurrection Now and Forever 

Big Idea:  The bodily resurrection of Jesus changes everything in the world and in your life. It gives us hope for now & for eternity. The resurrection is the heart of the gospel message.  When a person encounters the resurrected Christ, they are changed.  The resurrection is the surety that this world we live in of death, chaos, and decay will one day give way to Christ’s kingdom and a new heaven and new earth.

  1. The resurrection is at the core of the gospel.
    • Paul says it is of first importance.
    • The gospel is:  the death of Jesus, the burial (empty tomb), the resurrection, the post resurrection appearances. 
    • Without the resurrection, you’d still be imprisoned in your sins.
    • 1 Corinthians 15:1-5  
  2. The resurrection means you aren’t enslaved by sin.
  3. The resurrection means we don’t have to fear death. 
  4. The resurrection frees us from all evil power and authority over us. 
  5. The resurrection is the surety of Christ’s coming kingdom that is all about restoration and hope,  
  6. The surety of Christ’s coming to make all things new calls for repentance now, “Repent for the kingdom heaven is at hand.”  Matthew 4:17
  7. The resurrection is the only reason preaching has any purpose. 
  8. The resurrection is the only reason faith has any power. 
  9. The resurrection means the Lord extends an invitation to each believer every day. 
  10. The resurrection of Christ is the surety of the bodily resurrection of all believers.  

The Resurrection and Relations

Big Idea:  In America and the world, all kinds of relationships are broken, and we are in utter chaos.  These include race relations, class relations, wealth relations, one-on-one relations, and sexual relations.  In short, it’s a big mess, and we must view all relations in light of the reality that we are new creations due to the resurrection of Christ.  

  1. The resurrection and race relations.
    • “It is appalling that the most segregated hour of Christian America is 11 o’clock on Sunday morning.” -Martin Luther King, Jr.
      • It’s not WHO you are, but WHOSE you are.
      • It still happens in the Church today, thought that’s the last place it should EVER happen.
    • Galatians 2:11-21
      • Justification by faith overrides all else.
    • Isaiah 19:23-25
    • Revelation 21:22-27
    • Bottom line:  If we make an idol of our national and racial cultures, we are not putting on the new creation we are in Christ.
  1. The resurrection and class relations.
    • Luke 14:7-14 
    • Matthew 6:2
    • Bottom line:  Jesus says that those who are in Him shouldn’t play socially elitist games for their own gain. Instead, help those who have no means to repay you.  
  1. The resurrection and our relation to our finances (wealth).
    • Material possessions mean nothing if you’re not rich in Christ.
    • It’s not about the amount you give; it’s about your sincerity & willingness of heart.
    • Bottom line:  We don’t deal with our resources by the rules but by our relation to Christ.  We give in light of his sacrificial giving to us. 
  1. The resurrection and our broken relationships.
    • 1 Corinthians 6:1-6
    • Romans 2:1-4
    • Matthew 7:1-2
    • Bottom line:  Be careful not to jump to judgement. “Vengefulness, quick to litigation, and self-interest (pride) are part of the spirit of this age” -Timothy Keller. When we say, “Vengeance is mine,” we want to play God. (Romans 12:18)
  1. The resurrection and sexual relations.
    • 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
    • Bottom line:  What we do in our bodies matters.  In light of the resurrection, we are to flee porneia (sexual immorality). 

Conclusion:  The fact we are new creations through the resurrection of Christ, impacts everything we relate to.  

Living Christ Risen

Big Idea: Only in understanding the reality of the risen Lord can the way be open to live as God intends us to live. Morality alone will not save you. As Paul stated, “to live is Christ, to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). What is sin? To fall short of the glory of God! The wages of that sin is death (Romans 6:23). The following are crucial dynamics to living life as God intends us to live it:

  1. Realize who you are in Christ.
    • Ephesians 2:1-7
    • These verses are the most ultimate before and after picture you will ever see.
      • v. 1-3: Before=the Walking Dead
        • dead
        • following the world
        • following Satan
        • disobedient
        • living in the flesh
        • children of wrath by nature
      • v. 4-7: After=Alive in Christ
        • recipients of love and mercy
        • made alive in Christ
        • saved by grace
        • raised up with Him
        • set in heavenly places (present tense)
        • a picture of immeasurable grace
        • gifted with faith
        • created in Christ (a new creation)
        • given a purpose
      • Are you in the before or after category?
  2. Reflect DAILY on who Christ is.
    • Ephesians 1:15-23
    • Ephesians 3:14-21
    • What we reflect on with our minds will affect our hearts.
    • Also, what we reflect upon will be reflected outwardly toward others.
    • What we know affects who we are.
      • gnosis – mental level
      • epignosis – knowledge that affects you
    • Romans 12:2
  3. Redirect (repent) DAILY towards Christ.
    • Ephesians 4:17-24
    • Living as we are intended calls US to put off (die to certain practices) and put on other practices. It’s an ongoing redirecting of desires.
      • If it can’t get into your mind, it will never get into you heart.
    • What are the proper motivators for putting off the old person and putting on the new? Let’s talk about improper verses proper motivators.
    • Romans 8:29
  4. Relinquish your life to Christ.
    • Philippians 1:21
    • “The only one who ever lived life fully, as God intended life to be lived was Christ. The only life we can live as God intends us to live is the life of Christ.” -Major Ian Thomas, Founder of Torchbearers International.
    • Galatians 2:20
    • What would Jesus do? Wrong question. A better question is “What would I allow Jesus to do through me?”
    • John 12:23-26
      • Lose your life for Christ so that Christ may live in you.

CONCLUSION: Christ is alive to live in us. The extent to which His living in us becomes apparent is the measure to which we die to ourselves so as to reflect the reality of Him in us. “The life that Jesus lived qualified him for the death that he died. The death that he died qualifies us to receive the life that he lives. That’s the heart of the gospel in action.” -Major Ian Thomas

All the Way with God

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Terry stepped in while Alan was away to take into the book of Colossians and teach us about persevering to the end. To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below.

All the Way with God

Colossians 1:8-14

  • Colossians 1:13
    • This is salvation.
    • Believers are in the kingdom already (spiritually).
      • The kingdom will be fully realized at His return.
      • The Lord’s Prayer tells us the Father’s plan:
        • Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).
  • Colossians 1:14
    • We have redemption through His blood.
      • He paid our ransom out of the kingdom of darkness.
    • Produces the forgiveness of sins
      • Restored relationship with God through His blood fulfilling the wrath of God
  • What do we do now that we’ve been redeemed?
    • Colossians 1:1-8 summary:
      • Paul wrote this letter to the church at Colossae
        • He heard that this church was being well taught by Epaphras, and that they showed love in the Spirit.
        • He prayed for the church at Colossae and all believers.
    • Step One on the Stairway to Heaven
      • Colossians 1:9
        • Be filled with the knowledge of His will.
          • The will of God is found in the Word of God.
          • When you know His will, you will gain wisdom & spiritual understanding.
          • Philippians 3:12-14
            • let go to take hold
            • leave the things of the world behind
            • take hold of the things of God
    • Four More Steps on the Stairway
      • Colossians 1:10
        • Walk in a manner worthy of Him.
          • Be uncompromising in your witness.
          • Walk very carefully.
          • Remember others are watching you all the time.
        • Be pleasing to Him.
        • Bear fruit.
        • Always grow in the knowledge of God.
          • Yield yourself & your desires to Him.
          • We’re here on God’s business, to be His representatives in the midst of the darkness.
    • Strength to Climb the Stairway
      • Colossians 1:11-12
        • You need strength to walk the Christian life.
          • Strength comes from the Holy Spirit.
        • That strength provides:
          • patience in the times of trial & times of joy
          • joyfulness
          • thankfulness
            • He has qualified us to share in Christ’s inheritance.
        • Finish the race strong

2 Timothy, pt. 8

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Pastor Alan finished up his series in the book of 2 Timothy with chapter 4, verses 9-22, “The Final Farewell.” We have a tendency to skip over these verses at the end, but they hold very valuable lessons. To hear this message, simply click play on the audio player below.

The Final Farewell

2 Timothy 4:9-22

Paul is dealing with final matters, and as he does, he mentions numerous people. Some are his friends and allies; others are harmful enemies. Paul did not have a problem calling people out by name if they were causing harm to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

  1. Dealing With a Deserter (v. 10)
    • Demas – loved this world
    • Drift happens when we love the pleasures of this present world more than the coming Kingdom
    • John’s description of the “world”
      • kosmos – a sphere of order that is in direct opposition to God
      • 1 John 2:15-17 – lusts of the eyes, lusts of the flesh, pride of life
      • 2 Timothy 3:2-4 – lovers of self, money, pleasure
      • Revelation 2
        • Smyrna
        • Pergamum
        • Thyatira
    • This world is insidious, and it is tugging away at us constantly
  2. Dealing With Others (v. 10b-13)
    • Sending them out
      • Timothy
      • Luke
    • Seeing their best
      • Mark
    • Give them a mission
      • Paul asks Timothy to bring him his most necessary items:
        • cloak (warmth)
        • Scripture
  3. Dealing With Opposition (v. 14-15)
    • Don’t be afraid to confront opposers
    • Realize God’s in charge
    • Always be on guard
  4. Dealing With Being Alone (v. 16-18)
  5. Dealing With Fear & Weakness (v. 19-22)
    • Rely on the truest friends
    • Remember the Spirit God gave us
    • Pray for the grace of God in everything we do

Lessons from the Valley

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

We were blessed to have Dr. Jeff Leigh visit our little church and share a wonderful message with us. He taught about Elijah’s experience from 1 Kings 19. To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below. I’ve also included notes from his message with links to Scriptures he references. Enjoy!

Lessons from the Valley – 1 Kings 19:1-18

Ephesians 6:13 – it’s not about the tremendous victory in your battle; it’s about simply standing strong in the midst of your valleys.

Valleys are tough things to go through. They reveal our character and weaknesses, what we are standing on. But they can also strengthen us.

1 Kings 19:1-18

  • Elijah had a tremendous victory in 1 Kings 18 – then Ahab & Jezebel threatened his life. Instead of standing, Elijah ran.
  • Simple things can send you running if you don’t stand in the Lord.
  1. What Are the Valleys We Create?
    • Fear + Running
    • Expectations
    • Self-orientation
    • Isolation
  2. Things We Run to Instead of God
    • The past (what worked before)
    • What we understand (our own wisdom)
  3. How Does God Rescue Us?
    • Still, small voice; His Word
    • Gets us up & starting to fulfill His commands v. 15-16
      • Directing us uniquely
    • Helps us to see others v. 18-21
      • Those who are around us
      • Those who are also IN the fight
        • 7000 faithful
        • Elisha
  4. What Mountain Can We Always Stand Upon, Even When in a Valley?
    • Luke 10:17-20
      • Don’t rejoice in the little (or even big) victories in your valleys – rejoice in your salvation by faith through grace. That is the unfailing/unfading mountain that will always give you strength.

2 Timothy, pt. 6

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Pastor Alan is still taking us through the book of 2 Timothy. One week did not get recorded properly, but I have posted the outline below (for 2 Timothy 2:14-26). The following Sunday took us into 2 Timothy 3. To listen to that message, simply click play on the audio player below. The outline can be found below, with links to Scriptures referenced. Enjoy and be blessed!

2 Timothy 2:14-26: A Study in Contrasts

  1. Marks of a Good Teacher (v. 14-15)
    • gives constant reminders (v. 14a)
    • gives direct warnings (v. 14b)
    • is accountable to God (v. 15a)
    • can pass inspections (v. 15b)
    • has nothing to be ashamed of (v. 15c)
    • gives straight direction in truth (v. 15d)
  2. Marks of False Teachers (v. 16-18)
    • practice empty chatter (v. 16a)
      • all style, no structure
    • teach and live ungodliness (v. 16b)
    • spread destruction (v. 17)
    • stray away from the truth (v. 18a)
    • undermine people’s faith (v. 18b)
  3. A Firm Foundation (v. 19)
    • false teaching gives no foundation (v. 19a)
    • God’s solid foundation has two dynamics (v. 19b)
      • it bears a seal
      • it demands an action
  4. Two Types of Lifestyles (v. 20-26)
    • Marks of a Noble Lifestyle
      • cleanses himself of evil behavior (v. 21a)
      • is used of God (v. 21b)
      • pursues righteousness, faithfulness, love, and peace (v. 22a)
      • keeps company with true believers (v. 22b)
      • doesn’t engage in controversy and infighting (v. 23)
      • doesn’t lose their cool (v. 24a)
      • kind, competent, patient, correcting (v. 25)
    • Potential Results of a Noble Life (v. 25b-26)

2 Timothy 3: Two Kinds of People Contrasted

  1. What are the Last Days? (v. 1)
    • The period between Christ’s ascension and His return
    • “the days of Noah” – the last of the Last Days
    • Described as difficult
    • The Amplified Bible says, “dangerous, troublesome, great stress”
    • The Greek word is the same as translated “violent” in Matthew 8:28, describing demon possessed men.
  2. The People of the Last Days (v. 2-4)
    • Paul uses 18 words to describe them.
    • They can be summed up as the:
      • decadent
      • deviant
      • defiant
      • deceitful
      • disobedient
  3. The Three Deviant Affections
    • All begin with the phrase “lovers (philos – emotional affection) of…”
      • self
      • money
      • pleasure
  4. The Other 15 Vices or Sins
    • Romans 1:18-32
      • boastful
      • arrogant
      • blasphemers
      • disobedient to parents
      • ungrateful
      • unholy
      • unloving
      • irreconcilable
      • slanderers
      • no self-control
      • savage
      • opposed to good
      • treacherous
      • reckless
      • conceited
    • Use this list to examine yourself!
  5. The Cloak of Religion (v. 5a)
    • There is only the outward appearance of goodness and religiosity
    • No Holy Spirit
  6. How to Respond (v. 5b)
    • Avoid!
  7. The Predators (v. 6-9)
    • This is NOT saying that all women are weak-minded!
    • It is saying that there are predators who prey on the weak and vulnerable.
  8. Switch Gears! (v. 10-17)
    • What to be and do in the last days:
      • “You, however…”
        • follow sound teaching and teachers (v. 10)
        • have a purpose (v. 10)
        • have faith, patience, love, and endurance (v. 10)
        • accept suffering (v. 11-12)
        • beware of evil people (v. 13)
        • be grounded in Scripture (v. 14-15)
        • accept rebuke/correction (v. 16)
        • be capable of getting equipped (v. 17)
  9. Conclusion
    • We should always be in the process of self-examination, confession, and repentance in light of the certain accountability.

2 Timothy 2:8-13

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Alan continued to take us through the book of 2 Timothy with a teaching on the second chapter, verses 8-13. To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below.

2 Timothy 2:8-13

A key concept of 2 Timothy is enduring in both hardship and in the good times (since we can become complacent). We must remain faithful (not deny the faith). Paul is a picture of remaining faithful – 2 Corinthians 11:24-28 is a resume of suffering. Remaining silent can be a form of denying Christ.

  1. Priorities (v. 8-10)
    • Remember Jesus Christ
      • we fail when we forget who Jesus is & who we are in Him
      • 3 R’s
        • the Resurrection & its implications
          • without the resurrection, we can’t live out the life we are to live IN Him
          • the resurrection makes it possible for Him to work in & through us
        • Christ Reigns
          • He is the King of a kingdom, a descendant of David
          • we will reign with Christ
        • Results of the Gospel
  2. Promises (v. 11-13)
    • This section of Scripture is believed to be one of the earliest hymns in the Christian Church.
    • It contains four conditional clauses.
    • It is a “trustworthy saying” – you can believe it to be true.
      1. If we died with Him (died to self), we will also live with Him.
        • Galatians 2:20
        • Faith is expressed in confession.
          • Have you confessed you sin to Christ?
          • Have you denied your self?
      2. If we endure, we will also reign.
        • the promise of reward
          • He won’t deny us salvation, but He will deny us reward.
        • 2 Types of Inheritance in Scritpure
          • Heirs of Christ by faith
          • Co-heirs with Christ by suffering & enduring for Him (Romans 8:17)
        • reward = eternal glory (see v. 10)
      3. If we deny Him, He will deny us.
        • denial is born of fear
        • perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18)
      4. If we are faithless, He remains faithful.
        • We can’t change the faithfulness of God.
        • Our lack of holiness can’t affect the holiness of God.
        • He cannot deny His character.
          • It’s not what He does; it’s Who He is.
    • You know a person by their fruit.
    • True belief brings change.

2 Timothy, pt. 3

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Alan finished up the first chapter of 2 Timothy a few weeks ago. To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below.

2 Timothy 1:9-18

Timothy was the pastor of the church of Ephesus (the capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor). Paul is in prison, and this letter was his final written word.

  1. Paul’s Declaration (v. 9-12)
    • these verses were a hymn in the early church
    • Paul is declaring things that God has done for us through Jesus – fundamental things that we MUST be clear about.
      1. Christ saves us. (v. 9)
        • from sin & the curse of sin
        • we’re all physically dying, but everyone who is apart from Jesus is dying spiritually (Ephesians 2)
        • Salvation is an umbrella term for:
          1. justification: have been saved – reconciliation at the moment of trusting Him as our Savior (Romans 10)
          2. sanctification: being saved/changed – reconciled by His death; saved by His life (Romans 5)
          3. glorification: will be saved – away from the effects & presence of sin (1 Corinthians 15)
      2. Christ calls us to holiness. (v. 9)
        • ecclesia (Church) = called out ones
        • korban = something dedicated to the Lord
        • We are called out to be dedicated to the Lord.
        • “Be holy as I am holy.” (1 Peter 1)
        • Our righteousness must be greater
          • inward righteousness (Christ in us)
      3. Our saving & our calling are by God, not by us. (v. 9)
      4. Everything about the gospel is centered in grace, not works. (v. 9)
        • All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God
          • sin = falling short of God’s glory
      5. Christ destroys death & reveals eternal life. (v. 10)
        • eternal life = to know God & His Son (have an intimate relationship with them) (John 17)
        • opposite of the gospel = Satan, who comes to steal, kill, & destroy (John 10)
      6. The gospel has to be preached. (v. 11)
        • The gospel has apostolic authority.
        • The gospel has to be taught (delved into) with the aim of making disciples.
      7. Christ will guard Paul’s work. (v. 12)
        • Like he’s made a deposit & Christ is keeping that work safe & ready for that day
          • lay up for yourself treasures in heaven (Matthew 6)
          • Christ, the Good Shepherd, guards (John 10, Psalm 23)
          • what we do for Christ is kept
  2. Paul’s Admonition (v. 13-14)
    1. Holding fast/enduring is a major theme in this letter
      • hypomeno = stay under the load
    2. Hold fast to what you’ve heard.
      • sound words/teaching
    3. Act on what you hear in faith & love
      • balance is necessary
    4. Sound words must be protected.
      • There must be objective truth or there’s nothing to hold on to.
      • Jesus is the Way, the TRUTH, and the Life
      • No one comes to the Father, except through Him (John 14)
  3. Paul Deserted and Refreshed (v. 15-18)
    1. The importance of presence.
      • We need other people in our lives.
    2. Those who show mercy will receive mercy.
    3. Deed done in the name of Christ will not be forgotten on “that day” (the day of judgment for reward)

How do you want to be remembered? As someone who refreshed others or as one who deserted those who needed you?