Category: Sunday Message

Biblical Humility

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Pastor Jed began his teaching time this year with a wonderful four-part series on Biblical Humility.

Biblical Humility, pt. 1

“He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”  Micah 6:8

Walking humbly with God is part of a life of true faith.

1 Peter 5:5-7, Genesis 11:1-9, Proverbs 3:34

“He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them His way.”    Psalm 25:9

When you hear the word “Humility,” what comes to your mind?

Biblical Humility is not

  • Not self‑deprecation: It does not mean denying God‑given gifts.
  • Not weakness or passivity: True humility includes courage, obedience, and active service.
  • Not false humility: Scripture warns against outward humility without a sincere heart (Colossians 2:18, 23).
  • Not humiliation: We are valuable to God.

Biblical Humility is another “Christian discipline.”

  • A God‑centered perspective and posture. Micah 6:8. Humility has a right view of God and a right view of one’s self before God and recognizes our complete dependence upon Him. John 3:30
  • Submission to God’s authority: A humble person trusts God’s wisdom rather than their own strength. Proverbs 3:5-7
  • Rejecting pride and freedom from pride. Pride is about me. Humility is first a choice: willingly laying down one’s life, taking up the cross of Christ (which represents self-sacrifice), and submitting to His authority.
  • Service to others: Humility involves seeing ourselves truthfully, in meekness and in the light of God’s holiness, counting others above ourselves, and living in obedience to God and service to others.

Old Testament Examples: Joseph, Moses, Ruth, David, and Isaiah

Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, remained humble and credited God for his ability to interpret dreams, ultimately using his position to save many lives without seeking personal glory.

Moses is described as “meek above all men” (Numbers 12:3) and displayed humility by initially hesitating to lead the Israelites, relying on God’s guidance rather than asserting his own authority, and responding with grace when criticized by Aaron and Miriam.

David, despite being anointed king, served King Saul faithfully and acknowledged his own sinfulness, seeking God’s forgiveness and demonstrating a humble heart even in positions of power (Psalm 131:1),

New Testament Examples: Mary, John the Baptist, and Paul. Jesus Christ is the perfect model of humility: Matthew 11:27-30; 20:26; Phil. 2:5-11, John 13:14-15.

Biblical Humility, pt. 2

“He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”  Micah 6:8

Humility is the opposite of prIde. Many examples in the Old and New Testaments. The Tower of Babel. I am, can, want, need, have, think, feel, will, plan, etc. I am the center and it is about me. One example is…

The Fall of Lucifer in Ezekiel 28:11-19 – “guardian cherub” and Isaiah 14:12-17

  • A prophecy against the King of Babylon but also shows us this Fall
  • The five prIdeful “I wills” before God cast him down. See also Luke 10:18 and Revelation 12:7-9.

Philippians 2:5-8 – Jesus was our prime example.

Biblical Humility IS NOT humiliation, being beaten down, self-deprecation (putting yourself down), self-hatred, not speaking up, unworthiness, unrighteousness, feeling shameful or guilty, inability, poor, wretched, saying, “I’m not good (or __________) enough,” etc. Biblical Humility IS (a) A realistic view of one’s limitations and God’s greatness. (2) Dependence on God’s grace. (3) Submission to God’s will. (4) Meekness and gentleness. (5) Serving others selflessly. And (6) Rejecting self‑exaltation.

1 Samuel 24:1-7 – Background of David and how he spared King Saul’s life (See Chapter 26).  Psalm 57:1-7 – David acted on humility towards God, not impulse.

God does not humble us. We humble ourselves: Humility is first a choice to willingly lay down one’s life, to willingly take up the cross of Christ (which represents self-sacrifice), and to willingly submit to His authority.

James 4:7-10 – Verse 6 – When we humble ourselves, He gives more grace!

1 Peter 5:5-6 – clothe yourselves with humility – Put it on. Colossians 3:12

Biblical Humility, pt. 3

Micah 6:8 “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”  Walking humbly with God is part of a life true faith and service.

Humility before God

“Lord, make me humble” No. Jesus humbled Himself (Philippians 2:8). Likewise, we humble ourselves before God. Matthew 23:11-12, see also Luke 14:11). – James 4:5-10 and 1 Peter 5:5-6 – Humbling ourselves before God is like putting on a piece of clothing. “Clothe yourselves with humility.” Humility entails SUBMISSION to God, the Cross of Christ, His Word, and the Holy Spirit.

☑ I remember that everything I have comes from God. “For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”  1 Corinthians 4:7, Psalm 25:9. Humility leads to wisdom and honor: Proverbs 11:2, 15:33, 18:12, and 22:4.

☑ I depend upon God daily instead of trusting only myself. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6

☑ I give the credit to God instead of seeking glory for myself. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”  James 4:10, Isaiah 66:1-2

☑ I obey God even when no one is watching Luke 16:10

☑ I will pray with sincerity and not for appearance Matthew 6:5-6

☑ I remain thankful in every season. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Biblical Humility, pt. 4

Humility Towards Others

This humility grows out of our humility before God and His command to love one another. Matthew 23:11-12, Ephesians 4:1-3, Philippians 2:3, 1 Peter 5:5-7, Colossians 3:12, and Titus 3:2. See also Matthew 18:1-5 – Humble yourselves like little children (Luke 18:15-17).

☑ I do not compare myself with others “Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.”  Galatians 6:4-5

☑ I treat others as more important than myself. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather in humility, values others above yourself, not looking to your own interests, but each of you to the interests of others.”   Philippians 2:3-4

☑ I serve people quietly without needing recognition. Matthew 6:1-4

☑ I am willing to listen before speaking. “Everyone would be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”   James 1:19-20

☑ I speak gently and avoid prideful words. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”  Proverbs 15:1

☑ I accept correction without becoming defensive. “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.”  Proverbs 12:1

☑ I admit when I am wrong and repent quickly. 1 John 1:8-10

☑ I forgive others as just as Christ has forgiven me “Bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”   Colossians 3:12-13

☑ I stay teachable and open to wisdom “Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. Proverbs 9:9

The Christian Disciplines, part 4

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message, Uncategorized

Before Alan left for the winter, he added one more discipline for us to practice: endurance. He also gave us a handout with a review of all the Christian disciplines and how we can practically apply them every day. Enjoy!


Key Idea: Part of practicing Christian disciplines is endurance. Endurance in the Christian is a fruit of the Spirit. We are called to endure with joy and power, with an eye towards finishing our race. Those who finish strong are promised a crown of reward.

Key Endurance verses: Colossians 1:11, Hebrews 12:1-2, Acts 20:24, Philippians 3:13-14, 2 Timothy 1:7, Isaiah 40:28-31

Five Key Concepts to Running the Race of Life

  1. Focus on the P’s
    The person of Christ. Hebrews 12:1-2
    The prize before you. Hebrews 12:2, 2 Timothy 4:8
    The pain that will pass. John 16:21-22
    The power from above and within. Isaiah 40:28-31

  2. Forget the Past. Philippians 3:14
    Don’t drown in your regrets
    Don’t rest on your laurels
    Don’t get DQ’ed by entanglements. 1 Corinthians 9:26

  3. Fill Up with the Right Fuel. Ephesians 5:18
    Endurance is a gift of the Holy Spirit. So, first be filled with the Holy Spirit. Depending on the level of filling you will be fueled with power and joy. Colossians 1:11

  4. Finish the Race Strong. Acts 20:24, 2 Timothy 4:7
    To finish strong, you must train long. 2 Timothy 2:1-13, 2 Timothy 4:7-8

  5. Forty Day Victories
    The number forty was often a period of testing followed by a victory.
    What test would you put yourself under for forty days?

The Finish Line: Let’s run the race of life looking forward to a finish celebration unlike any other.

My Running Mantra:

I can’t.

He can.

He never said I could.

He always said He would.

He always will.

The Indwelling Life of Christ by Major Ian Thomas

“I’ve really got to use my imagination to think of good reasons to keep on keeping on.” Gladys Knight and the Pips, “Use My Imagination”.

Review of the Christian Spiritual Disciplines

A study and application outline based on Richard J. Foster, Celebration of Discipline

Key idea: The disciplines do not earn God’s favor. They are practices through which we place ourselves before God for His transforming work. The aim is a deeper life with Him, not mastery of a routine.

I. Inward Disciplines – Attending to God in the life of the mind and heart.

1. Meditation

Summary: Intentionally dwell on God, His Word, and His works; listen attentively to Him.

“But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” — Psalm 1:2 (KJV)

Application: Read a short passage slowly several times. Consider what it reveals about God and how its truth should shape this day.

Reflect: What truth do I need to dwell upon rather than merely read?

2. Prayer

Summary: Communion with God in praise, confession, thanksgiving, petition, and intercession; prayer also changes the one who prays. 

“Lord, teach us to pray.” — Luke 11:1

Application: Set a regular time for prayer and offer brief prayers throughout the day. Keep a list of people and needs to bring before God.

Reflect: Am I allowing prayer to change me as I ask God to act?

3. Fasting

Summary: Voluntarily abstain from food for a spiritual purpose, directing hunger toward God and exposing the hold of appetite.

“Moreover when ye fast…” — Matthew 6:16

Application: If medically appropriate, begin with one missed meal and use that time for Scripture and prayer. A food fast may require medical guidance for some people. 

Reflect: What appetites have more control over me than I realize?

4. Study

Summary: Engage the mind carefully with truth, especially Scripture, to understand it accurately and respond faithfully.

]“Study to shew thyself approved unto God…” — 2 Timothy 2:15  

Application: Study a Bible book in context. Note repeated words and structure; move from observation to interpretation to application.

Reflect: Am I learning what Scripture actually says?

II. Outward Disciplines – Letting inner transformation shape daily choices and relationships.

5. Simplicity

Summary: Seek freedom from the rule of possessions, status, consumption, and anxiety; order life around God’s kingdom.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness…” — Matthew 6:33 (KJV)

Application: Examine spending, possessions, and commitments. Release one thing that crowds out generosity, peace, or attention to God.

Reflect: What could I simplify to give more attention to God’s kingdom?

6. Solitude

Summary: Withdraw at times from noise and company to be alone with God, making room for quiet prayer and honest self-examination.

“And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.” — Luke 5:16 (KJV)

Application: Schedule a period without a phone, television, or conversation. Sit or walk quietly with Scripture and prayer.

Reflect: Can I be quiet before God without constant stimulation?

7. Submission

Summary: Yield the demand to have one’s own way; submit first to God and practice humility with others, without enabling wrongdoing.

“Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.” — Ephesians 5:21 (KJV)

Application: Notice a situation where you must control the outcome or prove yourself right. Yield where conscience and wise boundaries permit.

Reflect: Where is my insistence on my own way obstructing humility?

8. Service

Summary: Meet others’ needs with Christlike humility, including acts of service that bring no public recognition.

“For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister…” — Mark 10:45 (KJV)

Application: Each week help someone who cannot repay you; when possible, do so quietly. Reflect: Would I still serve if nobody knew?

III. Corporate Disciplines – Growing in Christ together within the body of believers.

9. Confession

Summary: Acknowledge sin honestly before God and, when fitting, to a trustworthy person; seek repentance and restoration.

“Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” — James 5:16 (KJV)

Application: Name sin specifically in prayer. When you have wronged someone, confess it to that person and seek to make it right.

Reflect: What am I tempted to hide?

10. Worship

Summary: Respond together to God’s character and works with reverence, gratitude, praise, and obedience.

“O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.” — Psalm 95:6 (KJV)

Application: Read the sermon text beforehand and pray for the congregation; take part attentively in corporate worship.

Reflect: Is my attention directed toward honoring God?

11. Guidance

Summary: Seek God’s direction together through Scripture, prayer, wisdom, and counsel from mature believers.

“In the multitude of counsellors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14 (KJV)

Application: For a major decision, begin with Scripture and prayer, then ask mature Christians who know you for candid counsel.

Reflect: Am I seeking direction or simply approval for a decision already made?

12. Celebration

Summary: Practice joy in God by remembering His goodness, receiving His gifts with thanks, and rejoicing with others.

“Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.” — Philippians 4:4 (KJV)

Application: Recall answered prayers and ordinary gifts; mark a shared meal, milestone, or testimony with gratitude. Reflect: Have I forgotten to rejoice in the Lord?

The pattern: Inward (meditation, prayer, fasting, study) → Outward (simplicity, solitude, submission, service) → Corporate (confession, worship, guidance, celebration).

Central principle: The disciplines are means, not the end. Their purpose is to make room for the Spirit’s work as believers grow in the likeness of Christ (Galatians 2:20).

The King and His Bride

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message, Uncategorized

Here I am, trying to get caught up again! This post brings you a two-part series, titled “The King and His Bride,” that Pastor Alan did just before he left for his winter abode.

The King and His Bride – A Two-Sermon Series on Psalm 45

Series Big Idea:  Psalm 45 presents the ideal King whose righteous reign finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, and whose Bride is called to respond to Him with wholehearted devotion.

New Testament Fulfillment: Hebrews 1:5-9; Ephesians 5:25-32; Revelation 19:6-9

Introduction: A Messianic Psalm, a Royal Wedding Song, a Love Song, a Prayer.

Sermon 1 – The King Who is Worthy.  Psalm 45:1-9

Proposition: Because Jesus is the righteous and eternal King, He deserves our allegiance, worship, and wholehearted devotion.

1. The King Is Worthy of Praise – Psalm 45:1-2

“My heart overflows with a pleasing theme…”

A. Worship begins with seeing the King.

The psalmist’s praise flows from contemplation of the King’s greatness.

B. The King’s beauty is described.

The language communicates extraordinary attractiveness, dignity, and royal excellence.

C. Grace characterizes His speech.

“Grace is poured upon your lips…” John 1:14

Application: What occupies our minds eventually affects our worship. A diminished view of Christ produces diminished worship.

2. The King Is a Mighty Warrior. Psalm 45:3-5.

“Gird your sword on your thigh, O mighty one…” Part of love is justice: love without justice and truth becomes misguided compassion.

A. He possesses strength. “In your majesty ride out victoriously.”

B. He fights for truth.

His warfare is associated with truth, meekness/humility, and righteousness.

C. His enemies are defeated.

His arrows are sharp and His authority is victorious.

Christ connection: Jesus is not merely a teacher or moral example. He is King. Revelation 19:11-16 presents Christ as the conquering King.

3. The King Is Divine.  Psalm 45:6-7.

“Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.”

The King is addressed as God, yet the text also says, “God, your God, has anointed you.” This creates a remarkable Old Testament anticipation of the person of Christ.

Hebrews 1:8-9:

The writer of Hebrews quotes Psalm 45:6-7 and introduces the quotation with, “But of the Son he says.” The New Testament therefore identifies the Son – Jesus Christ – as the ultimate referent of this royal passage.

Christ is:  King • Eternal • Righteous • Anointed • Divine

4. The King’s Righteousness Is the Foundation of His Kingdom.  Psalm 45:6-7.  “You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness…”

His authority is inseparable from His character. He does not merely possess power; He possesses righteous power.

Application: The King who deserves our worship is the same King who calls us to holiness.

5. The King Has a Bride. Psalm 45:8-9

“At your right hand stands the queen…”

The scene moves toward the wedding. The King is preparing for His bride. The New Testament develops this theme: Christ is the Bridegroom and the church is His bride (Ephesians 5:25-32).

Conclusion:  The question is not simply, “Do I believe Jesus is King?” The deeper question is: “Does my life respond as though He is King?”

Sermon 2 – The Bride Who Belongs to the King. Psalm 45:10-17

Proposition: Because Christ is the glorious King, His people are called to leave their former loyalties, belong wholly to Him, and live for His glory.

Review: Psalm 45 is a messianic psalm.  Other messianic psalms are Psalms 2, 22, and 72.  A key New Testament verse in relation to the messianic psalms is Luke 24:25-27.

1. The Bride Must Hear the King’s Call. Psalm 45:10-11

“Hear, O daughter, consider, and incline your ear…”

Three commands:  Hear • Consider • Incline your ear.

The bride must listen before she responds. “Forget your people and your father’s house” communicates a transfer of primary allegiance. It need not mean literal abandonment of family; it emphasizes the King’s supreme claim.

Spiritual principle: Coming to Christ involves a reorientation of loyalty. The Christian life is not merely adding Jesus to existing priorities; Christ becomes the supreme priority. John 10:27-28, Matthew 19:29, John 5:39-40.

2. The Bride Must Desire the King. Psalm 45:11 “Since he is your lord, bow to him.”

The bride does not merely admire the King. She bows to Him. Biblical discipleship requires reverence, submission, and worship.  Philippians 2:9-11.

Application: There is a difference between admiring Jesus and submitting to Jesus.

3. The Bride Receives the King’s Favor. Psalm 45:12-13

The bride is adorned in splendor. Ephesians 5 connects this imagery with Christ’s sanctifying work for His church.

Key thought: Christ does not merely acquire a bride; He sanctifies His bride. The glory of the bride ultimately reflects the work of the Bridegroom.  Ephesians 5:25-33. Philippians 1:6. Matthew 25:1-13

4. The Bride Is Brought Into the King’s Presence. Psalm 45:14-15

“She is led to the king…”

The wedding procession moves toward the King’s presence, and the result is joy and gladness.

Revelation 19:6-9: The Bible culminates in the marriage supper of the Lamb. Psalm 45 anticipates the biblical picture of the King and His Bride.

5. The King’s Kingdom Extends Beyond the Present Generation. Psalm 45:16-17

“I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations.”

The royal promise points beyond a merely temporary earthly reign toward the enduring messianic kingdom.

Matthew 28:19: The King’s kingdom continues to reach the nations through the making of disciples.  Revelation 1:4-8, 2 Timothy 2:10-13,1 Corinthians 3:13-15.

Conclusion – The King and His Bride

The King – Psalm 45:1-9 – Beautiful, gracious, mighty, righteous, eternal, divine, and anointed.

The Bride – Psalm 45:10-17 – Called to hear, consider, leave former loyalties, bow, belong, rejoice, and anticipate His kingdom.

Biblical movement:

Historical Davidic king -> royal/messianic hope -> ideal King -> Jesus Christ -> the Church as His Bride -> the marriage supper of the Lamb.

The Bible’s story moves toward the consummation pictured in Revelation 19: Christ the King and His redeemed people as His Bride. The question is: “Do we recognize Him, submit to Him and eagerly await the day when He comes for His Bride.

My Times Are in His Hands

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Pastor Jed steeped in the last Sunday of June to bring us a message about time entitled, “My Times Are in His Hands.” To listen to this message, simply click play on the audio player below. I’ve also included Jed’s study notes with links to BibleGateway for Scriptures referenced. Enjoy!

Psalm 31:14-15 

In public speaking, the resource of TIME is often badly mismanaged. The 80-20 Principle – using your time wisely through pacing. In general, our lives are focused on time, are measured and experienced through the passage of time, are bound or constrained by time, and how we use or waste our time.  

God instituted the existence of time at creation but He Himself does not exist in time and is not bound or governed by time. He is greater than time and exists outside of time. All human history lies before God as if in the eternal present. He is Yahweh/Jehovah, the great I AM. The “I was and is and is to come” (Rev. 1:8). 

II Peter 3:8-9 “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.”  However, God has appointed times for creation (including you and me) and its history. He has appointed times for His plans and purposes: Acts 1:6-7, II Timothy 1:9, Titus 1:2-3 for people in the Bible, including Jesus (John 2:4, 17:1).  

______________________________________________________________________________ 

  1. Commit your times to the Lord.  Psalm 31:14-15. Dedicate and donate your time to the Lord. The word “times” is plural – refers to people, circumstances, events, changes, lessons, triumphs, periods of testing, etc. Every aspect of our lives at every moment is in His Hands. Psalm 62:8.  
  1. Invest your time. It is a gift from God to use wisely. Do not waste it by “burying” it in the ground (Matt. 25:14-30). Consider “tithing” your time.  

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17 

  1. Be wise with your time. Ecclesiastes  3:1-8  “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity heaven.”  Limit time on your cell phone and other potentially idle activities. See Romans 13:11-12, Amos 5:13, and Matthew 16:3. Learn time appreciation and time management.

And the first Sunday in July is when we are blessed to join with other churches in Ouray County for Sunday in the Park in Ridgway. This year was a beautiful time of seeing God’s hand of love, protection, and provision over our little county which is currently facing the Gold Mountain Fire. We were truly blessed with relatively smoke-free skies and wonderful worship and fellowship with other believers, as well as a fantastic message from David Brickner, Executive Director of Jews for Jesus.

Here are a few pictures I actually remembered to take that morning! 😁

Thank you to Ridgway Chrisitan Church, Ouray Christian Fellowship, Ridgway Mountain View Fellowship Church, and Josh Young & The Valley Collective for such a special time.

The Importance of the Resurrection

by Laurin, posted in Sunday Message

Happy Resurrection Day! Pastor Alan is back and brought us a fabulous message about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. To listen to this message, simply click on the audio player below. I’ve also included some notes I took during the message, so I hope they help. Praying this message is a blessing to you on this beautiful Easter Sunday.

The Importance of the Resurrection

He is risen, indeed!

  • 1 Corinthians 15:14
  • Matthew 28:1-10
  • Mark 16
  • John 14:6, 11:25
  • The Resurrection is Incomparable
    • 1 Corinthians 15:1-8
    • The Resurrection is incomparable:
      • because of the person of Jesus Christ
      • because it is the most important message that can ever be proclaimed
      • because of the devotion it demands
      • because of the level of wonder it inspires (John 20:4-8)
      • because of the lives it changes (Acts 17:6)
    • The tomb is empty so you don’t have to be
  • The Resurrection is Indispensable
    • 1 Corinthians 15:13-19
    • The Resurrection is indispensable because:
      • without the resurrection, there is no forgiveness of sins
      • without the resurrection, there is no power of preaching
      • without the resurrection, we lose the assurance that those believers who’ve already perished are with Christ
      • without the resurrection, the inescapable (bodily decay and death) is hopeless
    • Romans 10:9-10
  • The Resurrection Gives Us an Imperative
    • We are to tell others about Christ and His resurrection
    • Hebrews 12:1-3
      • Life isn’t a sprint; it is a day-by-day marathon.

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