March 30th…
“Let’s Make A Deal!”
Acts 1: 6 – 11
Question #1
How did the bowl disappear?
Is it proper to do
“magic tricks”
on a Sunday morning?
Entertainment vs. Worship
What should take place
in a worship service?
1) Praise to God!
2) Encouragement!
(from others, and to others)
Question #2
What were all of the
appearances of Jesus?
Where did He go,
and who did He see
after the resurrection?
Appearances of Jesus
Mary at the tomb – Mark 16:9
Two Women – Matthew 28:9
2 Men, Emmaus Road – Luke 24:29
10 disciples – John 20:19
Thomas/11 disciples – John 20: 26
Appearances of Jesus
7 disciples fishing – John 21:5
500+ believers – I Cor. 15:6
James – I Corinthians 15:7
Ascension – Luke 24:50/Acts 1
Paul’s Conversion - Acts 9: 4
John 21:25
Jesus did many other things as
well. If everyone of them were
written down in detail,
I suppose that not even the
world itself would not contain
the books to be written.
John 20:30
Jesus did many
other miraculous signs
in the presence of the
disciples which are not
recorded in this book.
Question #3
Who were the 70 additional
other disciples that Jesus
sent out to minister to
the towns and villages?
Luke 10:1
Then the Lord appointed
70 others, and sent them out
two by two, ahead of him
to every place and town,
saying “the harvest is plentiful,
but the workers are few.”
Acts 1:15
(In the upper room)
In those days, Peter stood up
among the believers,
(to speak to them,)
a group numbering about 120.
Question #4
How did Jesus “vanish” from
their sight when He and the
two men on the Emmaus Road
were eating together?
Luke 24:30
When they were eating, he took the
bread, and gave thanks for it.
Then their eyes were opened, and
they recognized him, and he
disappeared from their sight.
Acts 1:6 - 11
“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for
the gift my Father has promised you
which you heard me speak about.”
So when they met together, they asked,
“Lord, are you at this time going to
restore the Kingdom to Israel?
He said, “It is not for you to know the
times and dates, the Father has set.”
“But you will receive power
when
the Holy Spirit comes on you; and
you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria,
and to the ends of the earth.”
After he said this, he was taken up
before their very eyes, and a
cloud him them from their sight.
As they were looking intently into
the sky, suddenly two men dressed
in white stood beside them.
“Men of Galilee, why do you stand
here looking into the sky?
This same Jesus who has been taken
from you into heaven, will come
back in the same way that you
have seen him go to heaven.”
Zechariah 14: 1, 4
On that day when the Lord is coming,
his feet will stand/touch
on the Mount of Olives,
and it will be split in two,
forming a great valley…
and you will flee
by my mountain valley.
Question #5
Why did Jesus have to die?
Why couldn’t people just
“believe in Him” without
Him suffering a cruel death?
(Sacrificial Lamb?)
Jesus died for the…
Presence of the Spirit!
Peace of God!
Penalty for sin!
Power over sin!
Proof of God’s word!
Purpose of your life revealed!
Promise of eternal Heaven!
Here’s the Deal…
(If, then, conditional clause)
“If you are my witnesses,
then, I will give you my power.”
“If you live for me,
then, I will live in you!”
Deal, or no Deal?
Do You Realize…
Jesus is counting on you!
You are His disciples today!
No one else is just like you,
who can do what you can do,
and say what you can say!
But why is it so confusing?
Why is it so hard to believe?
Even his closest friends
had a difficult time
believing in the resurrection!
Even they were confused!
Luke 24: 12
Peter, however, got up and
ran to the tomb. Bending over,
he saw the strips of cloth laying
by themselves, and he went away
wondering (confused) to himself
what had happened.
Matthew 28:8
So the women hurried
away from the tomb afraid,
(confused) yet filled with joy,
and ran and reported
to the disciples.
Mark 16: 8
And he said, “don’t be alarmed!
He has arisen! He is not here!”
Trembling and bewildered,
(confused) the women
went out and fled
from the tomb.
Matthew 28: 11 - 24
The guards went into the city and
reported to the Chief Priests what
had happened. They devised a
plan, and bribed the soldiers with a
large sum of money, telling them,
“you are to say that his disciples
came in the night and stole the body
while the guards were sleeping.”
After Jesus conquered death,
Where did He go?
What did He do?
What did He say?
Luke 24:13 - 27
Now that same day, two of them were
going to a village called Emmaus…
they were talking about everything
that had happened. As they talked
and discussed these things, Jesus
himself came up and walked with
them, but they were kept
from recognizing him.
He asked, “What are you discussing?”
They stood still; their faces downcast.
Then Cleopas asked, “Are you the only
one in Jerusalem who does not know
the things that happened there?”
And He asked them, “What things?”
“About Jesus of Nazareth,” they said.
“He was a prophet, powerful in
word and deed, before God
and all of the people.”
The chief priests and rulers handed
him over to be crucified, but we had
hoped that he was the Messiah.
And now, it is the third day, and some
of the women confused us. They
went to the tomb early this morning,
but didn’t find his body. They said
they saw angels who said
that Jesus was alive.
Then some of our companions went
to the tomb, and found it just as
they had said, but they did see him.”
Then Jesus said to them,
“How foolish you are, and slow of
heart to believe all that
the prophets have spoken about.”
Then he explained to them what the
scriptures said about the Christ.
As they approached the village,
Jesus acted like he might go further.
But they urged him strongly,
“stay with us, for it is nearly
evening, the day is now almost over.”
So he went in to stay with them.
When they were eating, he took the
bread, and gave thanks for it.
Then their eyes were opened, and
they recognized him, and he
disappeared from their sight.
Then they said to one another,
“were not our hearts burning within
us, as he spoke to us on the road,
and opened the scriptures to us?
And they returned to Jerusalem
and found the eleven disciples.
What Do You Believe Today?
Is it true or not?
Is it a hoax or actual history?
Realize
Recognize
Repent
Receive
Rejoice
How Did He Do That?
You don’t have to understand it
Just believe it by faith!
You are now accountable!
Today, go from
sadness to celebration,
and declare Christ as Lord!
March 16th…
What is Missing in
Our Churches Today!”
Romans 12: 9 - 11
Video clip
from the movie
Jesus of Nazareth
depicting Palm Sunday
Do You Realize…
The #1 factor of credibility
in any church is the
passion for the
ministry and mission!
Definition of Passion
A strong devotion to a
a person, an object,
an activity, or an idea.
Intense emotion that
leads to a specific action.
Where is Your Passion?
Physical - Visual
Intellectual - Ideas
Social - Relationships
Emotional - Feelings
Spiritual - Faith
Galatians 4:18
“It is a beautiful thing to be
(passionate) zealous
provided that the
purpose is good.”
Romans 12:11
“Never be lacking in zeal,
(passion) but keep your
spiritual fervor for the Lord.”
Why People Lack Passion #1
We want acceptance and
approval from people.
If we act too passionate,
we will repel people, or
they will think we are weird.
Why People Lack Passion #2
We become apathetic.
Apathy increases with age.
It takes more energy than it
did before to stay passionate.
We just give up too quickly.
Why People Lack Passion #3
We have allowed the
precious to become common.
We have lost the
“wow” factor in our lives.
Why People Lack Passion #4
We think of ourselves first
We see little purpose
beyond our own needs.
We don’t want to get involved
and make the effort
and give the time.
The Power of Passion #1
Passion reveals priorities!
Passion is the 1st step
in meeting your goals
in your life.
How committed are
you to your dreams?
Socrates and the
inquiring student
The Power of Passion #2
Passion will motivate people!
Passion increases “will-power”
through “want-power.”
If people want something
bad enough, they usually
can find a way to get it!
The Power of Passion #3
Passion is contagious!
Passion will influence
and attract and
change peoples’ lives!
The Power of Passion #4
Passion makes the
impossible, possible!
Then, we realize it
wasn’t impossible…we just
thought it was impossible!
How to Possess Passion #1
Pray for Passion!
God wants Christians
to possess passion
and excitement for Him!
John Wesley said…
“How do people see
passion in me…
I just set myself on fire
and people come
and watch me burn.”
How to Possess Passion #2
Associate with
passionate, zealous,
exciting people!
How to Possess Passion #3
Remember what God
has already done!
We forget the past;
We’re satisfied with the present;
We fear the future.
Revelation 2:4
“I know all of the good
things that you do in
My name, but you don’t
love Me like you once did.”
(You have left your first love)
How to Possess Passion #4
Use visual pictures
or reminders to
energize your passion,
to keep your passion,
and to reach your goals!
How to Possess Passion #5
Believe that passion
can, and will, make the
difference in your life!
Where Passion Should Be Seen?
Our God and our faith
Our marriage and our family
Our calling and our ministry
Our concern for the lost
A Church on Fire…
“This is the most exciting
thing that has ever
happened at this church!”
“You never have to
advertise a fire!”
March 2nd
“Risky Living;
“Is it Worth the Risk?”
John 10:10
John 10:10
“The thief comes only to
steal, kill, and destroy;
I come that you
may have life,
and have it more abundantly.”
We have a bad habit of
self-sabotaging our lives,
and this behavior is
keeping us from drawing
closer to Jesus!
We are our own worst enemy!
We can know all of the Bible
verses, the history, the doctrines,
and be very active in church;
but if we cannot control our
own personal habits, we are
self-sabotaging our lives, and
missing and losing our joy that
we are entitled to as believers!
Think for a moment…
is it not true that most of
the problems you are now
going through, is a direct
result of decisions and
choices you have made?
Let’s take a little
questionnaire about you…
and be honest!!!
Self-Sabotaging Problem #1
Trusting what people say
rather than trusting
what God says!
Our words, or interpretations
can never replace
God’s direct commands.
Unfortunately, people are…
Unpredictable
Biased
Insecure
Self-sabotaging Problem #2
We have the tendency
of blaming other people
for our problems.
Self-Sabotaging Problem #3
We have a lack of
focus and direction
in our lives.
(We seem to be out of control)
Self-sabotaging Problem #4
When we are not aware of
of all of the facts,
we make false conclusions
about people and events.
Self-sabotaging Problem #5
We listen too much to
negative people, and let
their attitudes and words
influence us.
Self-sabotaging Problem #6
We have a short memory
of when God has worked
in our lives, and
has met our needs.
Self-sabotaging Problem #7
We have the inability
to learn from our
previous mistakes
and seem to repeat them.
Infallible
Inflexible
Insecure
Self-sabotaging Problem #8
We refuse to take
risks in our lives
even though
God is with us!
Charles Lindbergh said…
“nothing can ever be
accomplished if we are
afraid to take risks.”
Self-sabotaging Problem #9
We have been stopped
by previous failures, and
expect them to happen
again in our lives!
We need to see failure
as a process in our life,
and not a personal
attack against us!
Self-sabotaging Problem #10
We secretly feel that God
is mad at us, and we
can never please Him,
and receive forgiveness.
In what areas of your life
are you sabotaging
yourself, and missing
what God has for you?
John 10:10
“You shall have life;
and have it more
abundantly.”
(overflowing joy)
Today’s Message February 3rd
“Imagine All the People!”
Matthew 9:35
“Imagine all the people
living for today…
You may say that I’m a dreamer,
but I’m not the only one;
I hope some day you will join us
and the world will live as one.”
(John Lennon)
James 4:13 - 15
“Now listen, you who say today
or tomorrow, we will go to this city and
spend a year and carry on a business
and make money. Why, you do not
even know what will happen tomorrow.
What is your life? It is just a mist
that appears for a little while
and then vanishes…”
God Will Not Ask You…
what kind of car you drove;
He will ask you how you
used your car to help
others around you?
God Will Not Ask You…
your highest salary;
He’ll ask you if you
compromised your
character to get it?
God Will Not Ask You…
the square footage of your house;
He will ask you how
many people you welcomed
into your home?
God Will Not Ask You…
how many friends you had;
He will ask you
how many people to whom
you were a friend?
God Will Not Ask You…
how many years you lived;
He will ask you how you lived
your life to turn others
to the Kingdom of God?
If live your life over again…
Reflect more about others!
Reach out to others
Risk more with others!
Invest more in others!
Matthew 9:35-39
“When he saw the crowds,
He had compassion on them,
because they were harassed and
helpless, like sheep without a
shepherd. The harvest is plentiful,
but the workers are few.
Ask the Lord of the harvest to send
out more workers into His field.”
What a Leader/Teacher Can Do
Impress
Influence
Inspire
Impact
Proverbs 24:26
“A straight-forward answer
is as good as a
kiss of friendship.”
We Must Be Committed to…
A Person
A Process
A Passion
A Purpose
II Timothy 2:2
“And these things which you’ve
received from me, entrust these
to faithful believers who will be
able to teach others.”
Jesus Has a Better I.D.E.A.
Instruction (Knowing)
Demonstration (Showing)
Experience (Going)
Accountability (Growing)
Pass the S.A.L.T.
Say something encouraging
Ask the important questions
Listen to their words
Turn them to Jesus
Jesus is counting on you!
No one else can do
what you can do!
Don’t let Him down!
Invest your life into others!
Do You Realize…
that success
without a successor
is failure!
Live today, so that you
will not need tomorrow
to correct the
mistakes of today!
Remember when you were born
you cried, and
the world rejoiced!
Live your life that when you die,
the world will cry,
but you will rejoice!
Today’s Message…
“Are You Tough Enough?”
*Would you consider
yourself a strong Christian?
*Are you ready for the battle?
*Are you battle-tough?
Knowing the Will of God
What the Bible says
Listening through prayer
Circumstances
Other Christians
Leading of Holy Spirit
What I Believe #1…
I believe that
God expects me
to be tough-minded
in tough situations!
(I will stand firm)
*Nowhere in the Bible are
we promised an easy way!
*Nowhere are we promised
a life without problems!
*Nowhere are we exempt
from pain and suffering!
I Corinthians 10:13
“God is faithful, and will not
allow you to be tempted
beyond what you are
able to endure, but will
provide a way of escape.”
What I Believe #2…
I believe that God
is greater than any
problem I will ever have!
(It’s all under control)
James 1: 2, 3
“Consider it all joy when you
face many various trials
because you know that the
testing of your faith produces
perseverance…so that you
may be strong and mature.”
Romans 5:3,4
“but we also rejoice in our
sufferings, because we know
suffering produce perseverance;
and perseverance produces hope;
and hope produces character
(maturity) in our lives.”
Love
Joy
Peace
Patience
Kindness
Goodness
Faithfulness
Gentleness
Self-control (Galatians 5:22)
Philippians 4:13
“I can do all things
through Christ who
strengthens me.”
You and God make a
majority in any situation!
What I Believe #3…
I believe that God
has several people already
prepared to help me
when I am close to
giving up, or giving in!
(He will use other believers)
Proverbs 19:20
“Listen to Godly counsel,
and accept discipline;
so you may be wise
the rest of your days.”
What I Believe #4…
I believe that I will never
be defeated, because God
will never give up on me!
(We are victorious)
Hebrews 13:5/Matt. 28:20
“I will never fail you,
nor forsake you.”
“I am with you always;
even to the end of the age.”
Always Remember…
A quitter never wins
and a
winner never quits!
What I Believe #5…
I believe that
my worst times,
will eventually be
my best times, through
the perfect plan of God!
(God sees the big picture)
Romans 8:28
“God causes all things to
work together for good,
for those who love God,
and are called according
to His purpose.”
Don’t give up on
the edge of a miracle!
When God closes a door,
He opens a window!
The saddest words ever…
“I used to be
a Christian, but…”
How about you?
What is your reason or
excuse for doubting God?
A committed believer will
never give up on God,
because he/she knows
that God will never
give up on them!
*What is your story of
keeping strong in the faith?
*Would you share it
with the Faith Family?
*You could be used
greatly by God!
February 3rd
“Imagine All the People!”
Matthew 9:35
“Imagine all the people
living for today…
You may say that I’m a dreamer,
but I’m not the only one;
I hope some day you will join us
and the world will live as one.”
(John Lennon)
James 4:13 - 15
“Now listen, you who say today
or tomorrow, we will go to this city and
spend a year and carry on a business
and make money. Why, you do not
even know what will happen tomorrow.
What is your life? It is just a mist
that appears for a little while
and then vanishes…”
God Will Not Ask You…
what kind of car you drove;
He will ask you how you
used your car to help
others around you?
God Will Not Ask You…
your highest salary;
He’ll ask you if you
compromised your
character to get it?
God Will Not Ask You…
the square footage of your house;
He will ask you how
many people you welcomed
into your home?
God Will Not Ask You…
how many friends you had;
He will ask you
how many people to whom
you were a friend?
God Will Not Ask You…
how many years you lived;
He will ask you how you lived
your life to turn others
to the Kingdom of God?
If live your life over again…
Reflect more about others!
Reach out to others
Risk more with others!
Invest more in others!
Matthew 9:35-39
“When he saw the crowds,
He had compassion on them,
because they were harassed and
helpless, like sheep without a
shepherd. The harvest is plentiful,
but the workers are few.
Ask the Lord of the harvest to send
out more workers into His field.”
What a Leader/Teacher Can Do
Impress
Influence
Inspire
Impact
Proverbs 24:26
“A straight-forward answer
is as good as a
kiss of friendship.”
We Must Be Committed to…
A Person
A Process
A Passion
A Purpose
II Timothy 2:2
“And these things which you’ve
received from me, entrust these
to faithful believers who will be
able to teach others.”
Jesus Has a Better I.D.E.A.
Instruction (Knowing)
Demonstration (Showing)
Experience (Going)
Accountability (Growing)
Pass the S.A.L.T.
Say something encouraging
Ask the important questions
Listen to their words
Turn them to Jesus
Jesus is counting on you!
No one else can do
what you can do!
Don’t let Him down!
Invest your life into others!
Do You Realize…
that success
without a successor
is failure!
Definition of sIn…
“A sIn is a voluntary or an
involuntary act of disobedience
through our thoughts, words,
or actions contrary to God’s
perfect and permissive will
for your life.”
(It’s just not doing what God
wants you to do!)
Why do we sin?
Error in our Judgment
Strong Peer Pressure
A Bad Childhood
Victim of Circumstances
Temporary Insanity
Devil Made Me Do It
Where Did Sin Come From?
We are descendents of Adam,
and his nature was handed down
to us due to their
sin of disobeying God.
“When Adam sinned,
sin entered into the human race.”
“Adam’s one sin brought
the
penalty of death to everyone;
Christ’s death brought the
forgiveness of sin
and everlasting life.”
(Romans 5:16)
Romans 3:23
“For all have sinned
and fall short
of the glory of God.”
“No one is righteous,
no not one.”
I John 1:8
“If we say we have not sin,
then we make God out
to be a liar
and we deceive ourselves.”
James 4:17
“He who knows the right
thing to do,
and then does not do it
for him it is sin.”
You Decide – Sins or not?
Playing cards
Going to movies
Wearing make-up
Wearing jewelry
Tattoos, piercings, surgery
Dancing
You Decide – Sins or not?
Drinking
Smoking
Cussing
Working on Sunday
Using Money on Sunday
You Decide – Sins or not?
Aids
Cancer
Mercy Killing
War
Homosexuality
You Decide – Sins or not?
Taking medicines
Having insurance
Wearing glasses
Having a car, TV, phone
Not covering your head
Notre Dame football fan
Are There Degrees of Sin?
With God…no!
“He who breaks the least of
these of my commandments
is as guilty as he who
breaks everyone of them.”
(James 2:20)
What are Some Christian Sins?
Judging/Criticizing
Apathy/Indifference
Pride/Boasting
What are Some Christian Sins?
Judging/Criticizing
Apathy/Indifference
Pride/Envy
Gossip/Slander
Definition of Gossip
“You are in the act of gossiping if
you are sharing (mis)information
about a situation to a person
who is not a part of the
problem or the solution.”
If we are all sinners…
Is it possible not to sin?
How long can you go without
committing a sin?
How does Sin Affect Us?
“For the wages (result) of sin
is (spiritual) death, but the
free gift of God is eternal life.”
(Romans 6:23)
How Does Sin Affect Us?
Lose intimacy with God!
Lose power from God!
Lose purpose in life!
Postpone next step in life
Hurt others by our actions!
Why Must I Confess My Sin?
Because unconfessed sin is
like a poison, or a cancer
in your life, that will dull,
darken, and eventually
deaden your spirit!
I John 1:9
“If we confess our sins,
He is faithful and just to
forgive us and to
cleanse us from all wrong.”
Do You Realize…
Jesus is not as concerned about
the act of your sin, as much as
He is concerned
about the attitude
of your repentance!
Steps to Overcoming Sin
Recognize the sin!
Realize the cost!
Resist the temptation!
Resort to the Word!
Remember Jesus is watching!
Rejoice in the victory!
II Corinthians 13:5
“Examine yourselves to see whether
or not you are in the faith;
test yourselves.
Do you not realize that Christ
lives in you…
unless you fail the test!”
Mary Gard……….…Administrative
Board
Brian Conwell……………….Finance Chair
Tom Joslin………………Staff Parish Chair
Robin Kieper, Larry Black ……….Trustees
Mark Richard, Dale Stickel………Missions
David, Lisa DeWyse…………...….Outreach
John Jamison……………….…….Treasurer
Bob Rhodes………………Faith Foundation
Sue Weldy……………………Administrator
Terry, Cathy Lanouette…….…..Over 55ers
Sally Dailey…………………Worship Team
Tom Horein……………..Handbell Director
Elizabeth Steele……...……..Choir Director
Kim Suski…………....Youth Council Chair
Beth Williams………....Kids Council Chair
Tricia Brickner……..........Pre School Chair
Colleen Halt…………...…..Day Care Chair
Tonya Nicoson……………….Kids Director
Sarah Miller………………..Youth Director
Brian Cray……………..…Associate Pastor
5 Necessary Steps…
Feeding on the Word!
Keeping a Prayer Journal!
Sharing your Changed Life!
Giving to Impact People!
Deciding to stay with it!
Tom Landry was asked…
What’s the difference between
a Professional football player
and an All-Pro football player?
“Not that much physically,”
“they just want it that badly!”
Just Wondering…
“What is holding you back
from 2008 being the very best
year of your life spiritually?”
“A Night to
Remember!”
Luke 2: 8 – 12
Actual Sign in the USA
We would rather
do business
With 1,000 Al Qaeda
Terrorists,
Than one single
American citizen
(At a Funeral Home)
Definition of a “sign”
*A Marker
*An Indicator
*A Symbol
*A Password
*To give direction/movement
Beware of the Children!
(In A Residential Yard)
Trespassers will be prosecuted
to the fullest extent of the law!
Sisters of Mercy
(At a Convent)
Go Away, Please!
(At a Travel Agency )
Drive safely, we can wait!
(At a Funeral Home)
A straight flush
beats a full house!
(A Plumber’s Sign)
37 years on the same spot!
(At aDry Cleaners)
Genuine Fake Watches!
(At a Jewelry Store)
An Updated Report of a
Stolen Toilet in Police Station
We have nothing to go on!
Luke 2:8 - 12
“And there were shepherds living
out in the fields, keeping watch
over their flocks at night.
An Angel of the Lord appeared to
them, and the glory of the Lord
shone around them,
and they were terrified.
But the angel said to them,
“Do not be afraid, for
I bring you good news of great
joy that will for all people.
For today, in the city of David
A Savior has been born to you
He is Christ the Lord.”
“This will be a sign to you,
you will find a baby
wrapped in cloths
and lying in a manger…
“This will be a sign to you
You will find a baby
wrapped in cloths
and lying in a manger…”
(Verse 16)
So they hurried off and found
Mary, Joseph, and the baby.
The Shepherds Response…
Available
Alert
Accepted
Agreed
Acted
Acknowledged
Adored
What are the Signs Today?
What is God trying to tell
us individually, and
as a group of believers,
concerning how to
respond to what is
going on around us?
Do you need some kind of sign
to believe in Jesus today,
or can you trust the
Word of God and
your faith in Christ?
God’s Sign Says…
Remember
Realize
Recognize
Repent
Return
Receive
Rejoice
Did you know…
that the Christmas Holiday is not
just to be enjoyed and celebrated,
but the Joy of Christmas (Jesus)
is to be received
and experienced!
Do you realize…
there is nothing you can do
in which God will love you less;
but also,
there is nothing you can do
where God will love you more!
So the question is…
have you received the
gift of Jesus,
and are you experiencing
the (Holy) Spirit of Christmas?
November 18th…
“What Kids Wish
Parents Knew About Kids!”
Ephesians 6: 1, 4
(Review of last Sunday's Message)
Demonstrations of…
Affection!
Attention!
Appreciation!
Actively involved!
Spiritual Involvement!
What Married Men Want…
Admiration!
Encouragement!
Being Cared for!
Sexual Intimacy!
Activities enjoyable for him!
Five Secret Insights about Men
We need our “cave” time!
We can’t read your minds!
Our egos are fragile!
We don’t want to disappoint you!
We need to be needed!
Great Marriages
just don’t happen!
They require effort,
sacrifice, and God!
Today’s Message…
“What Kids Wish
Parents Knew About Kids!”
Ephesians 6: 1, 4
Ephesians 6: 1, 4
“Children, obey your parents
because this is right in the Lord.
Parents, don’t provoke your
children, but bring them up
with a loving discipline.”
Other Translations
Don’t belittle
Don’t anger
Don’t exasperate
Don’t chastise
Don’t be hard
Don’t scold and nag
Ephesians 6: 1, 4
“Children, obey your parents
because this is right in the Lord.
Parents don’t provoke your
children, but bring them up
with a loving discipline.”
What Kids Need From Parents
Love, trust and support!
What Kids Need From Parents
Love, trust and support!
Time to talk!
What Kids Need From Parents
Love, trust and support!
Time to talk!
Consistent words and actions!
What Kids Need From Parents
Love, trust and support!
Time to talk!
Consistent words and actions!
Answers for future direction!
What Kids Need From Parents
Love, trust and support!
Time to talk!
Consistent words and actions!
Answers for future direction!
Independence with boundaries!
What Kids Don’t Want…
Smothering/babying them!
What Kids Don’t Want…
Smothering/babying them!
Spying on them!
What Kids Don’t Want…
Smothering/babying them!
Spying on them!
Parents embarrassing them!
What Kids Don’t Want…
Smothering/babying them!
Spying on them!
Parents embarrassing them!
To quick to judge them!
What Kids Don’t Want…
Smothering/babying them!
Spying on them!
Parents embarrassing them!
To quick to judge them!
Unrealistic expectations!
Kids
Want Parents to Know…
They need time with friends!
Kids Want Parents to Know…
They need time with friends!
Need to “master” something!
Kids Want Parents to Know…
They need time with friends!
Need to “master” something!
They have many fears!
Kids Want Parents to Know…
They need time with friends!
Need to “master” something!
They have many fears!
They need a sense of belonging!
Kids Want Parents to Know…
They need time with friends!
Need to “master” something!
They have many fears!
They need a sense of belonging!
It’s their life, you had yours!
Do you realize…
there is no punishment worse
for a parent, than to think they
have failed as a parent.
Are you willing to let them
know how much you
love them and
appreciate them?
When was the last time
you told them?
Great Marriages
just don’t happen!
They require effort,
sacrifice, and God!
Men, This was Your Homework!
Talk about this message!
Thank God for your wife!
Express meaningful touch!
Express your appreciation!
Talk and listen to her daily!
Make deposits in her love bank!
Give Her Your B. E. S. T.
B - Blessing
E - Edify
S - Sharing
T - Touching
Today’s Message…
“What Men Wish Women
Knew About Men!”
Ephesians 5:22
A Jeff Allen story
that describes Women!
Top Ten Frustrations of Men
10) Women think they know
what you’re thinking!
9) Women think you should know
what they’re thinking!
8) Women think all men are alike!
7) Women are terrible drivers!
6) Women are too emotional!
Top Ten Frustrations of Men
5) Gossip, Gossip, Gossip!
4) Women can’t make a decision!
3) Shoooopppping, not buying!
2) Rationale for spending money!
1) Women need to talk
about everything!
Ephesians 5:22
“Wives, be submissive to
your husbands, just as you
are to the Lord;
for the husband is the
head of the wife.”
“Out of respect for Christ,
be
courteously reverent to each other.
Wives, understand and support
your husbands in ways that
show your support for Christ.
The husband provides leadership
to the wife, just as Christ
does for the church.”
What Men Look for…
Christian faith/strong morals
Inward/outward Attractiveness
Sense of humor
Intelligence
Similar interests
What Faith Church Men Want
*A big screen TV
*Multi-positional Lazy Boy chair
*Fridge within 12 steps
*A working toilet within 6 steps
*No expectations from anyone
*Wife with amnesia
What Married Men Want
Admiration!
Encouragement!
Being Cared for!
Sexual Intimacy!
Activities enjoyable for him!
Five Secret Insights about Men
We need our “cave” time!
Men really will talk to you!
We need to be needed!
Our egos are fragile!
We don’t want to disappoint you!
Always Remember…
Wives, you can help make us,
not be the man of your dreams,
but be the man God
dreams for us to be!
Your power is in your praise!
Wives, your homework is…
*Thank God for your husband
*Do some activities he enjoys
*Admire, encourage, respect him
*Give him some “down” time
*Write a letter to him
*Make deposits in his “love bank!”
November 4th…
“What Women Wish Men Knew About Women!”
Ephesians 5 :25
Top Ten Frustrations!
10. Men think they know everything
and women don’t know anything!
9. Always watching TV Sports!
8. Lack of creativity in buying gifts,
and always need to be given hints!
7. Never clean up after themselves!
6. Men don’t follow instructions!
Top Ten Frustrations
5. Always “ready for some action!”
4. Men don’t notice when things
need to be done around the house!
3. Men can never find anything!
2. Belching, and then smiling like
it was a treat for everyone!
1. MEN DON’T LISTEN!!!
Basic Premise #1
God created men and women
to be different!
Basic Premise #2
Men and women
need each other!
Basic Premise #3
Marriage and Sex
were designed by God!
Basic Premise #4
Marriage is a
sacred calling to
serve one another!
Characteristics Women Look for
Strong Christian Faith…74%
Honesty…54 %
Sense of Humor…42%
Caring/loving/kind…41%
Respectful…33%
A Women’s heart…
is like a love bank,
where we can make
deposits and withdrawals.
What is your balance today?
Are you bankrupt today?
Demonstrations of…
Affection!
(Share meaningful touch
without ulterior motives)
Demonstrations of
Attentiveness!
(Give her time to
to talk to you,
and listen to her)
Demonstrations of
Appreciation!
(Do not take
her for granted)
Demonstrations of being
Actively Involved
(With your kids, your parents,
your finances, her interests,
and family decisions)
Participation in…
Spiritual Activities!
(attend church, talk to her,
pray with her, without belittling
her beliefs and faith)
Great marriages
just don’t happen!
They require commitment,
sacrifice, and God!
Men, This is Your Homework!
Talk about this message!
Thank God for your wife!
Express meaningful touch!
Express your appreciation!
Talk and listen to her daily!
Make deposits in her love bank!
October 28th
“Are You Smarter Than…”
Job 40: 1, 2
Hebrews 12:7
“Endure what you suffer as
being a father’s correction;
your suffering shows that
God is treating you as His son.”
James 1: 2
“Consider yourselves fortunate
when all kinds of sufferings come
your way; for you know that
when your faith succeeds in
facing trials, the result is
your ability to endure.”
Isaiah Asked…
“Why do the
wicked prosper,
and the righteous suffer?”
The Story of Job
True story or parable?
What is the lesson
for us today?
God Wonders…
*Have you ever given orders to
morning sun to rise?
*Can you bring forth the
stars at night?
*Can you send the lightning
bolts on their way?
*Does the hawk take flight
by your wisdom; and the
eagle soar at your command?
*Can you raise your voice
over the thunder in the clouds?
*Do you know the laws of the heavens?
*Have you been shown the
gates of hell?
*Who shut the seas behind its doors?
*Who made the clouds?
*Who gave the earth its shape?
*Who created lights in the heavens?
*Who created all the animals?
*Who created the grain in the fields?
*Who gives design to the universe?
Job responds…
“I am unworthy;
how can I reply to you?
I put my hand over my mouth.
I spoke once, I have no answer,
I spoke twice,
and I will say no more!”
Have you ever argued with God;
telling Him that He is
not doing a very good
job of being God?
*Sickness
*Financial
*Marriage/Family
*Self-worth
*Relationships
*Unknown future
*Doubting your own faith
(Mental, physical, spiritual)
Survival Key #1
Stop trying to figure out
what God is up to,
and why this is happening.
“Gods ways are not our ways;
who can know the mind of God?”
(Romans 11:33)
Survival Key #2
In spite of all that is
going on in your life,
continue to praise God.
“Always be thankful,
no matter what happens.”
(I Thes. 5:18)
Survival Key #3
You must not be afraid
to go through some sufferings.
“Since Christ suffered,
you must also have the same attitude,
for when we suffer, sin loses its power.”
(I Peter 4:1)
Survival Key #4
Remember,
God knows exactly
how much you can take.
“But God will keep His promise;
He will not allow you to be tempted
beyond what you are able to endure.”
(I Cor. 10:13)
Survival Key #5
Realize,
that you are going
to survive; life goes on.
“Do not worry about tomorrow.
Will all of your worries add
a single moment to your life.”
(Matthew 6:34)
Survival Key #6
Claim the Bible promises, and
know they can be trusted.
“My grace is sufficient for you;
My power shows up best
when we are weak.”
(II Cor. 12:9)
Survival Key #7
Realize,
that it is your faith
that pleases God.
“Without faith, it is impossible to
please God. You must believe that God
is a rewarder of those who seek Him.”
(Hebrews 11:6)
Survival Key #8
Ask yourself,
is there anything God is
trying to teach/show me.
“He helps us in our troubles,
so that we are able to help others,
using the same help we have
received from God.” (II Cor. 12:4)
God’s silence
does not mean
God’s absence!
James 1: 2
“Consider yourselves fortunate
when all kinds of sufferings come
your way; for you know that
when your faith succeeds in
facing trials, the result is
your ability to endure.”
October 21st
“Investing in God’
Spiritual Market!”
I Corinthians 16: 1, 2
Just Wondering…
If someone were to
ask you to do something;
what is the first question
you would ask yourself?
Definition of Giving
to impart
to present
to bestow
to yield
to cause to have
Definition of Selfishness
Concern for personal profit
Greedy
Seeking one’s own interests
Lacking consideration for others
So which best describes you?
*to impart
*to bestow
*to present
*to yield
*to cause to have
*personal profit
*greedy
*seeking
own interests
*lacking concern
for others
Did You know…
God created us to be givers!
We must re-learn to be givers!
We stop giving when problems come!
You always have something to give!
Giving is a choice!
God commands us to give!
I John 3:17
“If anyone sees his brother
in need, and yet closes
His heart to him,
how can the love
of God be in him?”
I Thessalonians 5:18
“See to it that no one
repays evil for evil,
but always aim to show kindness
and seek to do good
with all people.”
I Corinthians 16: 1, 2
“Now about the collection for God’s
people…on the first day of every
week, each one of you should set
aside a sum of money in keeping with
his income, saving it up, so that
when I come, no collections
will have to be made.”
Common Misconceptions
*If I only had more money,
I would do more with it!
*If I only had more money,
then I would be happy!
*God won’t miss my gift!
*It’s my money anyway!
Pilgrim’s Progress
“You have not lived today
until you have done something
for someone who
cannot pay you back!”
(Live to Give!!!)
Quick Review…
2007 Budget – $836,201
Mortgage -$772,000 ($6,485)
Utilities - $53,200
18 Staff - $268,884
Apportionments - $63,044
Weekly need - $16,080
Our Expectations….
Thanksgiving Offering!
2008 Financial Card!
Set aside your offering!
Go Ahead - Challenge God!
Live to give! (fight selfishness)
Expect great things!
How to Catch a Monkey…
“Don’t Be Cheap with the
Seed!”
John 14:16, 17
“And the Father will give you
another Counselor to be with
you forever – the Spirit of Truth.
The world cannot accept Him,
because it neither sees Him or
knows Him; for He lives in you
and will be with you.”
John 16: 7
“Now I am going to Him
who sent me…
but I tell you the truth, it is for
your good that I am going away.
Unless I go away, the Counselor
will not come to you, but if I go,
I will send Him to you.”
Acts 1:4, 5, 8
“Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait
for the gift my Father promised,
which you have heard me speak
about. For John baptized you
with water, but in a few days, you
will be baptized in the Holy Spirit.”
“It is not for
you to know times
or dates the Father has set by
His own authority.
But you will receive power when
the Holy Spirit comes upon you,
to be my witnesses in Jerusalem,
Judea, Samaria, and to
the ends of the earth.”
Who, What, When,
and Where…
Who? He is God!
What? 1/3 of the Trinity!
When? At creation?
On Resurrection Day?
At the Day of Pentecost?
At your salvation?
Where? Just look around!
Why Did the Holy
Spirit Come?
Glorifies Christ!
Teaches us about Christ!
Lives within us!
Empowers us!
Testifies about Christ!
Why Did the Holy Spirit
Come?
Convicts us of sin!
Inspires Scripture!
Calls us to ministry!
Intercedes for us!
Distributes spiritual gifts!
Questions About Holy
Spirit
*Why called the Holy Ghost?
*Must I speak in tongues?
*Will the Holy Spirit ever leave? *Holy Spirit and the conscience?
Commands of the Holy Spirit
Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit!
Don’t quench the Holy Spirit!
Be filled with the Holy Spirit!
Do walk in the Holy Spirit!
Why the Spirit Seems
Distant
1. Lack of Knowledge
2. Unbelief
3. Unconfessed Sin
4. Reliance upon Emotions
We don’t need
another explanation,
but we need a
demonstration of
God’s Holy Spirit!
A true story of love,
and God’s love for us!
September 30th…
“You Be the Judge and Jury!”
Galatians 6:9
What Must Take Place…
God’s presence is felt!
God’s pardon is offered!
God’s plan is explained!
God’s power is displayed!
How Do Churches Grow…
Warmer through Fellowship
Deeper through Discipleship
Stronger through Worship
Broader through Ministry
Larger through Outreach
Did you know…
that the Church must offer
something or Someone that you
can’t find anywhere else!
Finding the Truth through…
the Word of God!
the Witness of the Spirit!
the Wisdom of Believers!
our Walk with the Lord!
What People are looking for…
Answers to their questions
Hope/assurance for the future
Something to experience
Something with lasting purpose
Something to belong to
The Church that Jesus loves…
Where knowing Jesus Christ
is the #1 priority!
The Church that Jesus loves…
Where people are
experiencing
true worship!
The Church that Jesus loves…
where people are aggressively
reaching out to unbelievers!
The Church that Jesus loves…
where giving is generous,
and motivated by love!
The Church that Jesus loves…
where people are willing
to trust God for big things,
and are willing to sacrifice
to receive them!
Four Necessary Traits
Leadership
Vision
Prayer
Commitment
Galatians 6:9
“And let us not grow weary of
doing what is right,
for at the proper time
we will receive the reward,
if we don’t get tired and give up.”
(Living Bible)
The Mystery of the
Fork in the Casket
Keep your fork;
The best is yet to come!
September 23rd…
“The Signs of A Dying Church!”
Matthew 16:13 - 20
Someone is watching!
Somebody is waiting!
Something is wrong!
Sometime is now!
flexible, focused, future-oriented
bold, biased, Bible-based
challenging, charismatic, Christ-centered = = =
Method Mindset Mission
Before a Church does what
it is supposed to do;
a Church must first know
what it is supposed to be!
Many People see the Church as an…
Institution!
Business!
Organization!
But we must see the Church as a…
Living body!
So we can encourage,
and strengthen others;
and our purpose is to
minister/meet needs
Romans 12: 4, 5
“Just as each of us have one body,
with many parts, and these parts
don’t have the same function,
so in Christ, we who are many
form one body,
and each member belongs to
all of the others.”
Today’s Message…
“The Signs of A Dying Church!”
Matthew 16:13 - 20
Matthew 16:13
And Jesus asked his disciples,
“Who do the people
say that I am?”
“Thou art the Christ,
the Son of the Living God.”
Matthew 16:18
“And I will tell you,
that you are Peter,
and on this rock,
I will build my church,
and the gates of hell
will not overcome it.”
What happened next…
Jesus died and resurrected
Stayed 40 days, then ascended
Holy Spirit came, filled believers
Peter preached/church was born
Paul converted, traveled
Started many new churches
II Corinthians 12:20
“for I am afraid that when
I come to visit you,
that I won’t like what I see,
and you won’t like the
way that I will act.”
Signs of a Dead Church
No Warmth!
No Communication!
No Movement!
No Growth!
No Expectations!
Why Churches Die?
Messages/services not relevant
Always asking for money
No kids, youth, young adults
Too cliquish/cold/unfriendly
Inflexible/stuck on traditions
Why Churches Die?
Already feel guilty!
False teachings!
No leadership!
No salvations/changes lives!
No vision, mission, purpose!
3 Kinds of Dying Churches
Those that know it!
Those that don’t know it!
That are dying to self
and becoming alive to Christ!
Which church are we today?
Galatians 2:20
“I am crucified with Christ;
it is no longer I who lives,
but Christ who lives in me.
The life I now live in this body,
I now live by faith
in the Son of God.”
Resuscitating the Church
The Ability to See
The Faith to Believe
The Courage to Do
The Hope to Endure
II Corinthians 13:5
“Examine yourselves to see if
you are in the faith.
Test yourselves;
do you realize that
Christ Jesus lives in you?
The courage of your
convictions will call
you to confrontation!
A true story that
happened at the airport!
September 16th…
“So, What’s a Church Supposed to Do?”
Romans 12: 4
Someone is watching!
Somebody is waiting!
Something is wrong!
Sometime is now!
flexible, focused, future-oriented
bold, biased, Bible-based
challenging, charismatic, Christ-centered = = =
Method Mindset Mission
Our ultimate goal is
a changed life!
Before a Church does what
it is supposed to do;
a Church must first know
what it is supposed to be!
Sad Church Truth #1
Our world is filled with a
shallow, social, sinister form
of pseudo-Christianity!
Sad Church Truth #2
We have developed
the ability to be serious
about our religion,
without taking our
religion seriously!
Sad Church Truth #3
If absence makes the
heart grow fonder,
then some people must
absolutely love the church!
Many People See the Church as an…
Institution!
So we can make rules,
and the purpose is to
govern people
Many People See the Church as a…
Business!
So we can take your money,
and the purpose is to
buy and build things
Many People see the Church as an…
Organization!
So we can have meetings,
and talk about and
judge people
But we must see the Church as a…
Living body!
So we can encourage,
and strengthen others;
and our purpose is to
minister/meet needs
Romans 12: 4, 5
“Just as each of us have one body,
with many parts, and these parts
don’t have the same function,
so in Christ, we who are many
form one body,
and each member belongs to
all of the others.
So in Christ, we who are many,
form one body with many parts,
and each part belongs
to all of the others.
We all have different gifts
according to the grace given us.”
“So, What’s a Church
to do?”
Be a Member of the Body…
through a love of Christ,
and a love for others!
*******************
“Who ever loves God
must also love his brother.”
(I John 4:21)
“So, What’s a Church
to do?”
Be a Member of the Body…
through our
life’s experiences!
***************
“present your bodies
as a living testimony.”
(Romans 12:1)
“So, What’s a Church
to do?”
Be a Member of the Body…
through our lips
as a consistent witness!
*********************
“Go into all the world and
preach the gospel.” (Mark 16:15)
Charles Finney says…
Desire a genuine life-change!
Practice deep repentance!
Realize only God is able!
The Last Words of Ty Cobb
“Don’t wait until the
bottom of the 9th in your life
to fully commit your life
to Christ, and experience
His love for you!”
“And when the Holy Spirit
comes upon you, you shall
receive power to be my witnesses
to testify about Me in
Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria,
and throughout all of the world.”
(Acts 1:8)
Then the church throughout
Judea and Samaria enjoyed a
time of peace.
It was strengthened and
encouraged by the Holy
Spirit, and the church grew
in numbers, living in the
fear of the Lord. (Acts 9:31)
In our Jerusalem,
(Elkhart area)
someone is watching!
In our Judea,
(regional area)
someone is waiting!
In our Samaria,
(USA)
something is wrong!
In our world,
sometime is now!
If the church has
too little influence
over the community,
it is because
the community has
too much influence
over the church!
The Perfect Church must have…
an attitude that is celebrational
an approach that is relational
a ministry that is intentional
The Perfect Church Must be…
Flexible,
Focused,
Future-oriented
The Perfect Church Must be…
Bold,
Biased,
Bible-based
The Perfect Church Must be…
Challenging,
Charismatic,
Christ-centered
flexible, focused, future-oriented
bold, biased, Bible-based
challenging, charismatic, Christ-centered
Methods Mindset Mission
So the key for the
ministry of Faith Church is…
Methods, Mindset, Mission!
(It can’t be just one area!)
Mission statement…
“Doing whatever it takes to
make disciples for Jesus Christ!”
The Perfect Church?
It does not exist!
So find a Church
that you can
Grow in your faith!
Serve others/meet needs!
Our ultimate goal is
a changed life
August 26th
“So…You Think You
Can Dance?”
Colossians 3:16, 17
Here’s a Newsflash!!!
Reality Shows are not always real!
They are scripted, pre-planned!
You want a true reality situation…
Just look around you!
You can determine the future
reality of another person
by just showing that you care!
Feeding of Five Thousand
Matthew 14: 13-21
Mark 6: 34 - 44
Luke 9: 13-16
John 6: 5-13
Mark 6:34 - 43
When Jesus saw the crowd, He had
compassion for them for they were
like a sheep without a shepherd.
So He began teaching them. By
this time it was late in the day, and
the disciples came to Him and said,
“This is a remote place, and
already
it is very late. Send the people away
so they can buy food for themselves
to eat.” But Jesus said,
“You give them something to eat.”
“That would take eight months
wages! Are we to go and spend that
much on bread to feed them?”
“How many loaves do you have?
Go and see.” When they found out
they said, “five loaves and two fish.”
Then Jesus directed them to sit down in
groups. Taking the loaves and two fish
He gave thanks, broke them, then gave
to his disciples, and all ate until they
were satisfied. And the disciples
picked up 12 baskets full of scraps.
Luke 9: 13, 16
“We only have five loaves and two
fish, unless we go and buy food
for all of the crowd.”
“then He gave the bread and
fish to
the disciples to set before the crowd.”
John 6: 5 - 13
When Jesus looked up and saw a
great crowd coming toward Him,
He said to Philip, “where shall we
buy bread for all the people to eat?”
He asked this to test him, for He
already had in mind what
He was going to do.
Simon Peter said, “There is
a boy
with five barley loaves and two
small fish, but how far will that
go with all of these people?”
When they all had enough to eat,
He said, “gather up the pieces so
nothing is wasted.”
When the people saw this miracle…
they intended to make Jesus their
King, but knowing this, He
withdrew to a mountain to pray.
What Jesus Did…
Jesus Took!
He will accept you just as you are!
You don’t have to “clean up”
or stop doing a certain action.
Jesus will take you just as
you are today!
What Jesus Did…
Jesus Took!
Jesus Blessed!
Do you feel blessed today?
Remember, you are rich!
If God is for you,
nothing can win against you!
Nothing can defeat you!
You and God make a majority
in any situation you face!
What Jesus Did…
Jesus Took!
Jesus Blessed!
Jesus Broke!
You ever been broken?
Ever a time in your life when
you said “I can’t do this anymore?”
It is during those difficult times
that we grow in our faith! Let the
clouds/rains come!
Charles Swindoll says…
When God wants to do an
impossible task, he takes an
impossible man, and breaks him,
and then molds and fashions him
into the man that God can use!
“For God sometimes uses sorrow
in our lives to help us turn away
from sin and seek eternal life.
We should never regret his
allowing it; look at the result
in you! There in now a quiet
growth of strength and character.”
(II Corinthians 12:10 LB)
What Jesus Did…
Jesus Took!
Jesus Blessed!
Jesus Broke!
Jesus Gave!
Jesus gave them a purpose!
Do you have a purpose today?
Are you making a difference
in the life of anyone else?
The Story of
Twenty Men
Digging a Trench
Can you honestly say that
you are actively building
your life into the life of
someone else to make a
difference for the Kingdom?
If not…why not?
Colossians 3:17
And in all that you do,
through your words and actions,
do it all with thanksgiving
in the name of Jesus
giving thanks to God.
Least Enjoyed Subjects…
1) Death
2) Satan
3) Money
4) Hell
5) Sin
Luke 16: 19 - 31
There was a rich man who was
dressed in purple and fine linen,
and lived in luxury everyday.
At his gate was laid a beggar named
Lazarus, covered with sores and
longing to eat what fell
from the rich man’s plate.
Even the dogs came and licked
his sores. The beggar died, and the
angels came and carried him to
Abrahams’ side. The rich man also
died, and was buried. In hell, where
he was in torment, he looked up
and saw Abraham far away, with
Lazarus by his side. So he called
out to him…
“Father Abraham, have pity on
me
and send Lazarus to dip the tip of
his finger in water and cool my
tongue, because I am in agony in
this fire.” But Abraham said,
“remember that in your lifetime, you
received good things, while Lazarus
received bad things, but now is being comforted, and you are in agony.
And also, between us, is a great
chasm, so that those who want to
go from here to you, cannot, nor
can anyone cross over from there to
us.” He answered, “Then I beg you,
send Lazarus to my father’s house,
for I have five brothers. Let him
warn them, so they will not have to
come to this place of torment.”
Abraham replied, “they have
Moses
and the prophets, let them listen
to them.” “No, Abraham,” he said,
“but if someone from the dead goes
to them, they will repent.”
Abraham replied, “if they do not
listen to Moses and the prophets,
they will not be convinced even if
someone rises from the dead.”
Do you actually believe…
1) this is a parable or true story?
2) there is an actual hell?
3) separated from God?
4) that good people go there?
5) you will get a 2nd chance?
We may say that we believe
that there is a hell;
but do we live like
we believe there is a hell!
Luke 16: 19 - 31
There was a rich man who was
dressed in purple and fine linen,
and lived in luxury everyday.
At his gate was laid a beggar named
Lazarus, covered with sores and
longing to eat what fell
from the rich man’s plate.
Even the dogs came and licked
his sores. The beggar died, and the
angels came and carried him to
Abrahams’ side. The rich man also
died, and was buried. In hell, where
he was in torment, he looked up
and saw Abraham far away, with
Lazarus by his side. So he
called out to him…
“Father Abraham, have pity on
me
and send Lazarus to dip the tip of
his finger in water and cool my
tongue, because I am in agony
in this fire.” But Abraham said,
“remember that in your lifetime, you
received good things, while Lazarus
received bad things, but now is being
comforted, and you are in agony.
And also, between us is a great
chasm, so that those who want to
go from here to you, cannot, nor
can anyone cross over from there to
us.” He answered, “Then I beg you,
send Lazarus to my father’s house,
for I have five brothers. Let him
warn them, so they will not have to
come to this place of torment.”
Abraham replied, “they have
Moses
and the prophets, let them listen
to them.” “No, Abraham,” he said,
“but if someone from the dead goes
to them, they will repent.”
Abraham replied, “if they do not
listen to Moses and the prophets,
they will not be convinced even if
someone rises from the dead.”
What Goes on in Hell?
Watching!
Lamenting!
Agonizing!
Begging!
Warning!
Surrendering!
Believing!
I Believe…
We need to spend less time
trying to keep people
(believers) out of heaven,
and spend more time trying to
keep (lost) people out of hell!
Do you have any examples
people living like
they are dying?
If you knew
that you were going
to die tomorrow;
what would you do
differently today?
Jonathan Edwards said…
“I would dangle them over hell
for an hour of their lives
to make sure that they never
forget their mission to save
those who are lost.”
Do you have the assurance
that if your life were to end,
that you would be
in the presence of God?
(I John 5:13)
August 5th…
“Get Rich Quick!”
I Timothy 6:17
Just Wondering…
Who do you consider rich?
Do you consider yourself rich?
When would you feel rich?
Do you know you are rich?
Did You Know…
*USA is 6% worlds population,
Consume over 40% of resources
*92% people don’t own a car
*1.1 billion have no clean water
*800 million will not eat today
*300 million of them are kids
*Every 7 seconds, dies of hunger
Did You Know
*A billion people live on $1 a day
*Basic health needs for the world
would cost 20 billion dollars
*Our view of the world
is not the reality of the world!
The Question is not…
will God bless us…
but how will we
bless others?
Just Wondering…
Do you feel
blessed today?
Why do you?
Why don’t you?
James 2: 5
“Has not God chosen those who
are poor in the eyes of the
world to be rich in faith,
and inherit the Kingdom who
He has promised to love
those who love Him?”
I Timothy 6: 6 - 9
“But godliness with contentment
is a great gain. For we brought
nothing into this world, and we
can take nothing out of it.
People who want to get rich fall
into temptation and a trap,
and into many foolish and harmful
desires that plunge men and
women into ruin and destruction.
For the love of money is the root of
all evil. Some people, eager for
money, have wandered from the
faith, and have pierced themselves
with many griefs.”
I Timothy 6: 17 - 20
“Command those who are rich in
this present world not to be
arrogant, nor to put their hope in
wealth, which is so uncertain, but
to put their hope in God who
richly provides us with all that
we need for our enjoyment.
Command them to do good, to
be rich in good deeds, and to be
generous and willing to share.
In this way, they will lay up
treasures in heaven as a firm
foundation for the coming age,
so they may take hold of the
life that is truly life!”
It’s not about what can
I get now…
It’s about what can I give now?
Who are you
going to bless today?
Recent Examples of Giving
*Flag Pole
*Chapel TV monitor
*Projector/mini sound booth
*Scholarship Dollars
*Kids Water Playground
*Weeding the rock islands
*Making a Video of the Service
Okay, What’s the Pitch?
It’s not about what we believe,
but about what we have!
All we have is a gift!
It all came from God!
It all belongs to God!
We are His managers!
Luke 12: 21
The Parable of the
Rich Farmer
(You can’t bless others
with a closed fist!)
The Bible Teaches…
You have the resources
to bless others!
What are you doing with
what you’ve got to make
a difference in the
lives around you?
July 22nd…
“Who Needs A Doctor?”
Luke 5:27 - 32
(Matt. 9: 9, and Mark 2: 13)
Luke 5: 27 - 32
Jesus went out and saw a tax
collector by the name of Levi
sitting at his tax booth.
“Follow me,” and Levi got up
and left everything
and followed Him.
Then Levi held a great
banquet
for Jesus at his house, and a
large crowd of tax collectors
and others were eating with them.
But the Pharisees and the teachers
of the Law complained to the
disciples and asked them,
“Why do you
eat and drink with
tax collectors and sinners?”
Jesus answered them,
“It is not the healthy who need
a doctor, but those who are sick;
I have not come
to call the righteous,
but sinners to repentance.”
Jesus answered them,
“It is not those who are doing
My will, who need to change;
but those who are not doing
what they know is right!
I have not come to call the
obedient to change, but those
who are not following my words.”
What is Jesus saying?
“It is not those who are doing
My will who need Me,
but those who aren’t.”
*Obedience vs. disobedience?
*Your way or God’s way?
So the Question is…
Are you in need of a
spiritual doctor who can
remedy or remove
the problems you have today
that are affecting/hindering
your relationship with God?
Do You Need a Spiritual
Dr.?
Is there any ongoing
unconfessed sin in your life?
“My strength
evaporated like water
on a sunny day, until I finally
admitted my sins to you and
stopped trying to hide them.”
(Psalm 32:3)
Do You Need a Spiritual
Dr.?
Are there any unresolved
conflicts in your life?
“If you enter
a place of worship, and
remember you have a grudge against
someone, leave...and go and make
things right, and then return to worship.”
(Matt. 5:23)
Do You Need a Spiritual
Dr.?
Are there any unrealistic
worries in your life?
“Give all of
your worries to Him,
because He cares for you.”
(I Peter 5:8)
How do we react?
Hide it/Cover it up!
Cannot/will not admit it!
Feel useless, blown it!
I’m wrong, admit it, confess it!
How does “sickness”
affect us?
Separates us from God!
We lose our spiritual power!
It hinders our witness!
We miss God’s will in our lives!
How to Deal with
it?
(God, Others, You)
A. See it
B. Surrender it
C. Starve it
Matthew 5:13 - 16
“You are the salt of the earth;
but if the salt loses its saltiness,
can it become salty again?”
“You are the light of the world;
so let your light shine that they
may see your good works, and
praise your heavenly father.”
The Purpose of Light…
a. dispels darkness
b. gives direction
c. gives warning
The Purpose of Salt…
a. It enhances flavor
b. It is a preservative
c. It causes change
Just Wondering…
*Do you have any
non-Christian friends?
*How are you ever
going to share
your faith and lead them
to Christ, if you are never
around non-Christians?
“Create in me
a clean heart
and renew a
right spirit within me.”
(Psalm 51:10)
Do you realize…
There are no degrees
of obedience.
Always Remember…
God never told the world
to go to church;
He told the church to
go to the world!!!
A Father teaching
his son about the
consequences of his actions
July 8th…
“Are You Contagious?”
Philippians 2:5
Did You Know that…
Your Attitude is
Contagious!!!
Definition of Attitude
*A mental or moral disposition
*The act of disposing
*Your demeanor
*Your conduct or behavior
*Your mental temperament
*Your mindset
Posters on the Wall
You are going to be
what you are now becoming!
You are not what
you think you are,
but what you think…you are!
Proverbs 4:23
“Be careful how you think;
your life is shaped
by your thoughts.”
Philippians 2: 5, 7
“Your attitude should be
the same as Christ Jesus
who humbled Himself
and took the nature
of a servant.
Attitude Observations #1
Your attitude is
a choice!
(No one chooses it for you)
Attitude Observations #2
Your attitude will
determine your
approach to life!
Attitude Observations #3
Your attitude will
determine your
relationship with people!
Attitude Observations #4
Your attitude will
determine how you
handle failure!
Attitude Observations #5
Your attitude can turn
problems into blessings!
Biblical Teaching
No one owes you
happiness,
but you are entitled
to joy!
So, You’ve Got Problems…
Predictors
Reminders
Opportunities
Blessings
Lessons
Everyone
Modify
Solvable
Always Remember…
It is not what happens
to you,
but what happens
in you
that will shape your life!
Always Remember…
We don’t need a new
set of circumstances
We just need a
new attitude about
our circumstances!
Attitude Check
Praise
The
Lord
Anyhow (always)
Philippians 4: 8
“whatever is true, honorable,
right, pure, lovely, and admirable,
if anything is worthy of praise;
let your mind think
about these things.”
Romans 12:2
“Do not be conformed to
the ways of this world,
but be transformed by the
renewing of your mind…”
Ephesians 4:29
“Let no unwholesome words
come out of your mouth,
but only those words that
will build up and encourage
those who are listening.”
A True Story!
The Stranded Motorist
Letting people see the
attitude of Christ in us!
June 24th…
Spiritual Boot Camp
(Part 4)
“Mission Deployment!”
Matthew 28:18 – 20
II Timothy 2:3
“Be a good soldier of Jesus Christ,
one who is ready to please
his commanding officer.”
Training Manual – Bible
Preparing for Battle – Prayer
Protecting the Base - Mind
The Army’s Philosophy
The Right Strategy
+
The Right Response
=
Victory in the Battle God’s Teaching…
The Right Attitude
+
The Right Action
=
God’s Blessing!
God’s Teaching…
Your faith not only saves you
from the penalty of sin,
but also the power of sin!
Deployment in God’s Army
1) Make sure you enlisted!
Make sure you are a Christian!
How do you know today that
you are a Christian, and you
are on your way to heaven?
Deployment in God’s Army
2) Wear the uniform with pride!
Don’t be ashamed to
be a Christian!
Do you hide from others that
you are a believer in Jesus?
Deployment in God’s Army
3) Believe in the Mission!
Believe in the Great Commission!
Go, and make disciples in
your own mission field!
Deployment in God’s Army
4) Share why you enlisted!
Share your testimony!
Be prepared to share with others
why you became a Christian!
Deployment in God’s Army
5) Encourage them to defect!
Ask them to join your army!
Tell/show them why your army
is the only one that matters!
Two Important Questions
If you were to die today, are you
sure you would go to heaven?
******************************
If you were to die, and you met
God in heaven, and He asked you,
“why should I let you in?”
What would you say?
Deployment in God’s Army
6) Utilize Your Weapons!
Use your spiritual artillery!
You have the power to defeat
the enemy on his turf!
Deployment in God’s Army
7) Refuse the furloughs!
Be a full-time Christian!
There are too many
“Sunday Christians” who
have retired on God!
Deployment in God’s Army
8) Never wave the white flag!
Never give up on the mission!
The mission must be completed,
and the victory must be won!
God never gave up on you!
Deployment in God’s Army
9) No soldier left behind!
Never give up on a person!
God can work and soften
the hardest hearts!
Deployment in God’s Army
10) Be an Army of One!
Go, even if you are the only one!
Even if you feel like you are
all by yourself, don’t quit on
the mission God has given you!
Benefits of Deployment
1) Sense of adventure!
2) Sense of personal fulfillment!
3) Grow up spiritually!
4) Gain spiritual confidence!
5) Help God build the Kingdom!
The greatest problem
in following Jesus
is not our doubts,
but our disobedience!
A True Story
An Army Platoon’s decision
“We may not come back
we must go out!”
Jesus is counting on you!
Enemy #1
Apathy and Indifference
Do we really care about
others around us?
Do we show and respond
to their needs?
Two Little ‘ol Ladies
talking in church
before the service.
Matthew 25: 45
“Lord, when did we see you hungry
or thirsty, or a stranger, or in need,
and we did not help you?”
“I tell you the truth, whatever you
did not do for one of the least of
these, you did not do it for me.”
Enemy #2
Temptation to Compromise
We are great at rationalizing
our actions and attitudes!
(It’s always someone else’s fault!)
James 1:14
“but each one of us is tempted
when, by our own evil desires;
we are dragged away and
enticed. Then after the
desire is conceived,
it gives birth to sin.”
Enemy #3
Pornography
and the filling of
our minds with
mental pollution
Romans 1: 28, 29
“They did not think it worthwhile
to retain the knowledge of God.
He gave them over to a depraved
mind, to do what they should
not do. They became
filled with wickedness…”
89% created in United States
$2.8 billion industry
72% are men subscribers
260 new porn sites daily
12% all websites are porn
35% downloads are porn
Larry@faithumc.com
Enemy #4
Gossip
and the pain we inflict on
others with our words
and false conclusions
Matthew 7: 1 - 3
“Don’t judge, for others will
judge you as you judge them.
And why do you complain about
a speck in your brothers eye
when you have a log in your own.”
Enemy #5
Guilt and the
inability to be
honest with ourself