Luke 18:18–20
Luke 18:21–23


The Rich Young Ruler’s Story
The question (v. 18).
The answer (vv. 19–20). 
The extraordinary response (v. 21).
The challenge (v. 22). 
ALMOST
He was almost willing but left “very sad.”
This story isn’t about possessions (vv. 24–30). 
This is a story about submission and sacrfice. 
What does that mean to us? 
If you are here and you are not a Christian…
Acts 2:37–41
Matthew 10:37–39Galatians 2:20Romans 6:3–7
What does that mean to us? 
If you are here and you are a Christian…
Have you truly repented?
What is your “one thing”?


 

 Ephesians 4:1–3


They do not reach and teach the lost.
A harsh but real statement. 
Isaiah 12:4; Acts 8:4
True kingdom growth occurs when souls are saved (Acts 2:7; 4:4). 
They do not reach and teach the lost.
What do we learn?
We must stir up the evangelistic spirit. 
We need classes that encourage us and equip us for the work. 
We must feel a personal responsibility.
They lose their young people.
Every church stuck in a declining pattern shares this concern. 
60% of young people growing up in churches fall away. 
They lose their young people.
What do we learn? 
We need solid classes to teach religious convictions.
We need to help our kids develop their talents  to serve God and the kingdom.
We need to provide opportunities for young people to be together. 
Mom and dad must teach at home.
They fight and divide. 
Churches often just can’t get along.
Galatians 5:13–15John 13:34–35John 17:20–21
They fight and divide. 
What do we learn? 
We must recognize that we cannot thrive in an environment of bitterness.
We must get along with our brethren. 


 

 Psalm 111:1–5
Psalm 111:6–10


What does God say about His name?
Protect it.
Exodus 20:7
Glorify it.
1 Timothy 1:17
Revere it.
Psalm 111:9–10
The core issue.
The Jews protected the name.
But they failed to protect the teachings of God.
Matthew 15:1–9
When we respect God as we should, we have no trouble honoring His name.
Modern Applications
Respect God.
Respect His name.


 

 Luke 18:1–4
Luke 18:5–8


Laser Praying
Specific prayers show:
A deeper level of faith.
A willingness to put self on the line.
The example of Gideon.
The example of Eliezer.
The example of Elijah.
The example of Hannah.
Importunate Praying
Luke 18:1–8
Troublesomely urgent; persistent in request or demand
Luke 11:5–8
Matthew 15:21–28
Acts 12:1–5


 

 Be Thou An Example
 
Be Thou An Example
1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

Who looks to you as an example?

Be Thou An Example
Teach.
Consider Hebrews 5:12-14.
Are you a “milk” or a “meat” Christian? 
Does your spiritual growth set an example for others to follow?
Establish a set of spiritual goals and pray for God to help you achieve them.
Be Thou An Example
Teach.
Paul reminded the Ephesian elders at Miletus, “And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house.”   – Acts 20:20
Be both a PUBLIC and a PRIVATE example!
Be Thou An Example
2. Purity.
Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
			                        – Matthew 5:8

1 Corinthians 8:9 – “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.”

Be Thou An Example
What would others think of you if they:
Listened to your tasteless music?
Noticed your immodest apparel while in public (or at worship service)?
Discovered that you possess a    “potty mouth” ?
1 Thessalonians 5:22 – “Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
Be Thou An Example
3. Attendance.
Hebrews 10:24-25 – “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Be Thou An Example
3. Attendance.
Consider Romans 15:1-7.
	How can we “bear the infirmities of the weak” (v.1), please and edify one another (v.2), “be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus” (v.5), “with one mind and one mouth glorify God” (v.6), and “welcome one another” (RSV, v.7) if we are never here?
Be Thou An Example
Acts 2:44-47 – “And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.”
Be Thou An Example
4. Love.
Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.  By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.”                                          					 – John 13:34-35
Be Thou An Example
4. Love.
Jesus said unto him, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”  – Matthew 22:37-40

Be Thou An Example
4. Love.
Jesus said, “But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for He is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”      – Luke 6:35-36

Be Thou An Example
4. Love.
Consider 1 John 4:7-12, 16-19, 20-21
TO KNOW GOD IS TO LOVE HIM!
GOD FIRST LOVED US!
GOD’S LOVE COMPELLED HIM TO SEND HIS ONLY SON TO DIE FOR OUR SINS! 
LOVE YOUR BROTHER!
Be Thou An Example

Finally…
“Let brotherly love continue.”
                    – Hebrews 13:1
Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life…”  – John 14:6
• HEAR (ROMANS 10:11-16)
• BELIEVE (ROMANS 10:17)
• REPENT (LUKE 13:3; 2 PETER 3:9)
• CONFESS (ROMANS 10:8-10)
• BE BAPTIZED (MARK 16:16; ACTS 2:38)
• LIVE FAITHFULLY (MATTHEW 25:21)


 

 
Mercy and Grace
Exodus 33:19; 34:5-8
Mercy and Grace
Mercy – 276 times in the KJV Bible 
217 in OT; 59 in NT
Grace – 170 times in the KJV Bible 
39 in OT; 131 in NT

Mercy and Grace
Mercy – n. outward manifestation of pity. v. to feel sympathy with the misery of another.
Grace – unmerited, or undeserved favor.
Mercy and Grace
Gen 19:19 Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life;

Ex 33:19 ASV And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and will proclaim the name of Jehovah before thee; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.
Ex 34:5-7 ASV 5 And Jehovah descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of Jehovah. 6 And Jehovah passed by before him, and proclaimed, Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness and truth, 7 keeping lovingkindness (mercy, KJV) for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin; and that will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, upon the third and upon the fourth generation. 
Emanuel – God with us!
Mat 1:22-23 KJV  22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,
	23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

o` lo,goj – The Word
KJV  John 1:1 ¶ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
	2 The same was in the beginning with God.
	3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
	4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
Jesus, the God-Man
Jn 1:14 ASV And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father), full of grace and truth.
Col 1:19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;  
Col 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.  
Jn 1:16 KJV And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

Love Is The Reason!
Jn 3:16 KJV ¶ For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Love Is The Reason!
Eph 2:4-9 KJV But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
 5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
 7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
 8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Saved by God’s Mercy & Grace!
Tit 3:5-7 ASV not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,
 6 which he poured out upon us richly, through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
 7 that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.


 

 

Matthew 18:15–17
15 "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.  16  But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses.  17  If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Romans 16:17–18
17 I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.  18  For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
1 Corinthians 5:3–6, 11
3 For though absent in body, I am present in spirit; and as if present, I have already pronounced judgment on the one who did such a thing.  4  When you are assembled in the name of the Lord Jesus and my spirit is present, with the power of our Lord Jesus,  5  you are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord.  6  Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?11 But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler--not even to eat with such a one.
Ephesians 5:11
11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
1 Thessalonians 5:14
14 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.
2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14–15
6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.14  If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed.  15  Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.
1 Timothy 5:19-20
19 Do not admit a charge against an elder except on the evidence of two or three witnesses.  20  As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.
2 Timothy 3:1-5
1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty.  2  For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,  3  heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good,  4  treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,  5  having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.
Titus 1:9-11, 13
9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.  10  For there are many who are insubordinate, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision party.  11  They must be silenced, since they are upsetting whole families by teaching for shameful gain what they ought not to teach.13 This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith,
Titus 3:10-11
Titus 3:10-11 10 As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him,  11  knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
2 John 1:9-11
11 Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.  10  If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting,  11  for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works.


The process: 
Warn the brother.
Not such a one.
Uphold consequences.
Withdrawal of spiritual fellowship.
Severance of social contact.
Admonish him as a brother.
Why discipline?
To save their soul.
To save the church.
To establish fear. 
To glorify God.
Who should be disciplined?
A brother.
Who? 
Those committed acts of the flesh.
Those who are divisive and false teachers.
Elders who continue in sin.
Those who walk disorderly.


 

 
For Jesus`
Live With Purpose
Personal Relationships
Scriptural Charges
Influence With Passion
Be an example
Speech
Conduce
Love
Vain Discussions Should be Avoided
Break down the body.
Don’t construct, correct, approve, or edify.
Expect Success
Paul was on his way to heaven.
Timothy should follow. 
We should follow them both.

Live with Purpose.
Influence with Passion.
Vain Discussions = NO
Expect Success


 

 Acts 23:12–14
Acts 23:15–16


Paul’s persecution…
Acts 21:30, 32
Acts 23:3–10
Paul’s nephew hears about the conspiracy to take his uncle’s life.
Lesson’s from the traitor’s nephew:
Don’t give in to peer pressure.
Stand for what is right.
God uses people who choose to stand.
You are never too insignificant for God to use. 


 

 
The Vow
Samson Had it Made
He had Godly parents.
He had a Destiny.
He had God on his spiritual speed dial.

Samson Had a Problem
Women, lust, and anger were just symptoms.
Samson did not appreciate his covenant vow.
Samson’s heart was not with God.

Our choices
Choose to understand our covenant relationship with God.
We need to choose God.
It’s not too late (yet).	



 

 Luke 2:8–11

The Shepherds Listened
Listening is a needed skill.
“Quick to hear” (James 1:19)
The Shepherds Leaned on One Another.
Don’t go through life “on your own.”
Hebrews 13:15 Matthew 28:20
Galatians 6:1–2 James 5:16
The Shepherds  Sought the Truth
Hebrews 11:1
Acts 17:11 1 John 4:1
Don’t just be a “Church of Christ” Christian.
The Shepherds Spread the Good News.
We share the good news about everything else in life.
Why is it that we can’t talk about God?
The Shepherds Gave God the Glory.
Psalm 30:11–12 Psalm 106:47–48
Focus on giving God the glory in your prayers.


 

 

Christ’s Victory
Was not just His death.
Christ’s crucifixion proved his faithfulness to God.
The defeat was the cross; the victory was the open resurrection.
Resurrection proved God’s faithfulness
“God promised before through His prophets and holy Scriptures.” (Romans 1:4)
Hope returned at the open tomb
Resurrection: Cornerstone of our Faith
Without the resurrection there would be no…
Grace
Hope 
Peace
God has promised salvation

Remember the Tomb
When people fail us.
When we fail ourselves.
When our crosses loom (Matthew 16:24)


 

 John 6:5–8
John 6:9–11



He Followed Jesus.
Matthew 14:10–14
He stayed for an extended period of time.
Ecclesiastes 12:1
He Made Provisions For His Needs.
Matthew 14:15–16
2 Thessalonians 3:10–12
He Shared.
John 6:9
1 John 3:17–18Ephesians 4:28
The Lord never expects us to do more than we can.
He Trusted Jesus.
John 12:25–26
Matthew 10:34–39
His Unnoticed ActGlorified Christ.
Who fed the 5,000?
2 Chronicles 16:9
This is how it is supposed to work!


 

 Scripture: I Samuel 17:45-47
God Vs. Goliath

God
Goliath Was A Giant Too
He was a man of war from his youth.
He was a Champion and a killing machine.
Philistia Was More Mighty than Goliath
One of the oldest nations in scripture.
Warmongers by nature.
Technologically advanced.
David was Just Throwing Stones
David knew who’s side he was on.
David knew how “big” God is.
David knew how small he was.
Five Stones
Prayer (17:26)
Partnership (17:52)
Practice
Passion (17:48)
Power (17:45)


 

 We need to expect more from God.
James 4:2; Psalm 81:10
We are encouraged to pray greater prayers than we do (Eph. 3:20–21).
We need to pray for healing and relief from affliction.
God does answer these petitions (1 Cor. 1:8–11; Phil. 2:25–27).
When God answers prayer is it a miracle? 
No.
We need to pray for healing and relief from affliction.
Why is there no relief when I pray?
God is not most concerned with our health and happiness.
God can be glorified in your illness.
Sometimes the world needs to see us suffer as Christians.
We need to pray for salvation of the lost.
Knock, Seek, and Ask (Matt. 7:7–8).
God answers the prayers of those who are seeking the truth (Acts 9; 10:4).
We need to pray for salvation of the lost.
Remember:
God does not answer for those who are rebellious.
God cannot save people in any other way than what has been provided. 
We need to pray for more workers.
We need to pray for those who we do save.


 

 Therefore…
 Steadfast
Immoveable 
Always, Abounding, God’s work 
Always: Consistant, repetitive action 
Abounding: Overflow 
The work of the Lord 
Loving God and men 
Fulfilling the gospel 
Ministering to the needy 
Teaching the unwise 
Giving to brothers and sisters 
We are a family 
The only way that this is possible 
We are never alone 
We are always supported 
We must give back 
Your labor is not in vain 
There is a reward 
God loves 
God is good 
God has won for us 

 

 
Why is Smoking a Sin?

Why is Smoking a Sin?
God values human life!
I Samuel 26:23–25
Psalm 22;35;72;116
You Body is property of God
I Corinthians 16:13,18
Why is Smoking a Sin?
Smoking violates God’s care for human life!
Smoking violates your responsibility to your body
Principles
A principle is bigger than a rule
A principle is a guide
God’s Principles
Basic principles are stepping stones for maturity
Hebrews 5:12
“It takes more manhood to abide by thought out principles than blind reflex.”
Alex Karras
God’s Principles
Weak men live by man’s principles
Strong men live by God’s principles
“Gray areas”
Social Drinking
Smoking
Modern Dancing
Clothing/Modesty
Relationships
ETC
What we CAN do
Why can we go to heaven?
Why does God love us?

Why do we love God?
Romans 8:37–39
NOTHING SEPARATES US FROM GOD’S LOVE!




 

 Esther 4:13–14

How to Raise an Esther

Be a leader yourself.
Don’t just stand around!
Esther 2:7; 3:2–6; 4:1–4
As a father, you can stand tall or you can stand around.
Be a spiritual submarine under the surface of your child’s life.
Esther 2:10–11, 19–23
While we cannot be with our children every hour of the day, we should be an influence in their life continually.
Train your children to lead.
Esther 4:5–17
Three things: 
Expect. 
Encourage.
Support.
Remember: Leadership is always rewarded. 
Esther 8:1–2; 9:3–4; 10:1–3
The reward extends to both fathers and children.

 

 Philippians 3:15

Says Who

God is Our Standard
“Be holy as I am holy.” (Lev. 18:1)
God is the creator of all things.
God is the giver of all things.
God is the owner of all things.
How God communicated His will
God made His will known in Christ.
God made His will known through the apostles.
False Standards
We are not our own standard.
Other people are not our standard.
Religious leaders are not our standard.

 

 Ephesians 4:32–5:2

How to Find Love and Long-Lasting Relationships
Hollywood’s formula for love and losing relationships.
Find the right person.
Fall in love.
Man’s Way vs. God’s Way
Hollywood’s formula for love and losing relationships.
Find the right person.
Fall in love.
Fix your hopes and dreams on this person for your fulfillment.
If failure occurs, repeat steps 1, 2, and 3. 
God’s formula for love and lasting relationships.
Be the right person.
Walk in love.
Fix your hopes and dreams on God. Seek to please Him.
If failure occurs, repeat steps 1, 2, and 3.


 

 Philippians 3:4–7

Perspective
Christ’s “secret”
Matthew 3:15
Fulfill righteousness.
Matthew 4:3–10
Respect God. Live by God’s word. Worship God.
Matthew 4:17 
Make the right decision: Repent.
Righteousness in Christ
Paul said: “I Count EVERYTHING as loss” (Phil. 3:4–7).
Paul knew that people are GROWTH.
Paul saw life as win/win.
Respect for God, His word, and Worshipping God
Our Relationship with God’s word gives us a Christ-like perspective.
The more we learn about God, the more we become like God.
When we apply what we learn about God to our lifestyles, then we are true worshippers of God.
Repenting is making the right decision
To live is Christ; to die is gain.
Helpful Tools
Be positive by considering Christ.
Be grateful by considering Christ.
Be pure in heart by considering Christ.
Be content by considering Christ.


 

 God will Accept Anyone
Cornelius was a Gentile
Jews Looked down on the Gentiles
Matthew 5:46–47
Matthew 6:7
Matthew 18:17
God accepted Cornelius!

Anyone Who Fears Him
fear and fearing God are two different things
Fear drives away
Fearing God strengthens and brings closer
God is a force to be feared
Anyone Who Does What is Right
Psalm 1 describes a man who does what is right
Cornelius was this kind of man
What good is it to fear God and not act on that fear of God?
God Accepts Anyone
Who Fears Him and does what is right
Cornelius was baptized because it was the right thing to do.
God will accept you.

Will you accept God?

 

 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Can Satan give people cancer?
“Why do bad things happen to good people?”
Job 1:8–12; 2:3–6
Can Satan give people cancer? 
Yes.
But only if he is allowed (1 Cor. 10:13).

Why is it important for a man to lead his family? 
“Because God said so”
Genesis 3:16; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 5:22; Colossians 3:18; 1 Peter 3:1; Ephesians 5:22–24
A man must provide for his family. 
1 Timothy 5:7–8
If he fails, he is worse than an unbeliever. He is LOST.
A man’s role in discipline…
Proverbs 13:24
Hebrews 12:5–11
“illegitimate children … not sons”
Public Confession
Where is the scriptural authority to demand a public confession?
Understanding two words: 
Confession: a verbal action.
Repentance: a non-verbal action.
Acts 8:20–23
Fruits of Repentance (Luke 3:8). 


 

 Matthew 7:7–11


Petition in our prayers.
The word “prayer” means “to beg or solicit.”
“Gimme” prayers are indicators of a lack of maturity.
God wants us to petition Him for our needs.
Petition in our prayers.
Two things occur when I cast my burdens on God: 
Big burdens are lifted. 
Trivial anxieties are revealed.
Intercession in our prayers. 
Exodus 32:11–14
Requirements for intercession:
You must be righteous (James 5:16).
You must ask because the one in need cannot ask (Job 42:7–9). 
You must view it as an awesome responsibility and privilege (1 Sam. 12:23). 
Intercession in our prayers. 
Intercession is a selfless act making a request for others who aren’t in the position to acquire it for themselves (Neh. 1:5–11). 
“Work is life’s real recreation. Prayer is life’s real work.”


 

 1 Peter 2:9–12
Alien Nation

Two Continual Challenges:
The pressure to conform ourselves. 
Genesis 19
James 1:27
Romans 12:2
The pressure to confine ourselves.
1 Peter 2:12
We Must Promote Our Identity.
Ephesians 2:19
Hebrews 11:13
An Alien’s Guide To Life On Foreign Soil (1 Peter 4):
Be persistent in prayer (v. 7).
Make a connection (vv. 8–9). 

An Alien’s Guide To Life On Foreign Soil (1 Peter 4):
Be persistent in prayer (v. 7).
Make a connection (vv. 8–9). 
Focus your ambition (vv.10–11). 


 

 Isaiah 6:9–10

Clear Eyes, Full Heart, Can’t Lose
The Sower
Why do you speak to them in Parables?
Because Seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear.
Clear Eyes
See and Hear
Acts 17:22-34
Paul says God made all men
Paul Says God will judge all men by Christ
Everyone can see and hear Christ
Full Heart
Understand and Obey
People mocked
People said they’d like to hear more
People joined Paul
What’s the difference?
Are you letting your heart be filled?
Is Your heart open?
Can’t Lose
Paul and Silas Won
Acts 16:25-34
Christ Won
Christ won so we win
You can’t lose

Clear Eyes, Full Heart
Can’t Lose


 

 Proverbs 31:25–29


The Story…
A Canaanite woman. 
“My Daughter...”
“Help Me!”
“Great is your Faith!”

What Mom Does For Her Kids:
She gives hope in the tough times. 
She loves.
She never gives up.
She trusts God. 



 

 
Have It
God’s Way
Isaiah 55:6-9
My Ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts are higher than your thoughts.”
The Story
The Assyrian Cast
Naaman
Ben-Hadad II
Servant Girl
The Story
The Israelite Cast
Israelite King (Johoram)
Elisha
Elisha’s Servant
Naaman’s Mistakes
Naaman Thought
Cleansing could be bought
Cleansing could be found in men
His way was better than God’s
The Reaction
Naaman Turns away in RAGE
Naaman’s servants step in
Naaman is cleansed
What We Learn
Our cleansing cannot be bought
Our cleansing cannot be found in men
God’s ways are higher than our ways

Have It
God’s Way


 

 Romans 1:13–16
Got Courage?
Joshua 1:6–9, 16–17
2 Timothy 3:12
Romans 12:1–12
“I Am Not Ashamed”
2 Timothy 1:7–8, 12
Romans 1:16
Five Things We Should Feel No Shame For:
To admit I am a Christian.
What the Bible teaches.
Being active in the church.
Share my faith.
Put Jesus first!


 

 
4 Lies of satan
God is a DESTROYER!!!
“I don’t hafta do it”

“It’s really hard to teach the gospel”
“No one wants to study the Bible”
4 Lies of satan
God wants you, and wants you to want others
Anyone can teach 
Its easy to teach
People want to hear
Tell loved ones you love themTell Strangers who you are


 

 Luke 18:10–13

What is confession?
A compound word meaning “to say the same thing.”
We can understand confession in a different context.
Matthew 10:32–33
Matthew 3:16–17; Acts 8:37
Do we truly confess our sins?
“Forgive us of all of our sins.”
True confession is painful!
Daniel 9:4–19; Nehemiah 1:5–7; Psalm 51; Psalm 32
How can we learn to confess in prayer?
Be honest with yourself and with God.
Be specific.
Forsake the sin. 
Forgive others. 

 Proverbs 3:1–3
Proverbs 3:4–6


Sometimes life lands you in the rough.
How you handle adversity says a lot about you.
It speaks volumes about your character. 
It speaks volumes about your faith.
How do you handle adversity?
Quit striving. 
Psalm 46:10
Wait on the Lord. 
Psalm 27:14; Proverbs 20:22Romans 8:28
Take it to the Lord and leave it.
1 Peter 5:6–7; Zephaniah 3:17


 

 2 Timothy 2:1–2


Our Program
One sermon a week.
Weekly studies from Timothy and Titus. 
Preacher interviews. 
One book a week.
One article a week. 
Bible classes.
Good preaching…
Bible based (2 Tim. 4:1–2). 
Doctrinal (1 Tim. 4:16). 
Personal (2 Tim. 3:16–17). 
Motivated by love (Eph. 4:15). 
Full of conviction (Rom. 1:16). 
Bold (2 Tim. 4:2). 
Balanced (2 Tim. 4:1–2). 

What Can You Do?
1 Thessalonians 5:11–13
Please do not: 
Offer constructive criticism to Tom.
Talk negatively about brethren.
Please do: 
Offer words of encouragement. 
Show hospitality.
Build up other Christians.
What Should Our Expectations Be?
Gradual improvement in the ability to present a lesson.
Gradual improvement in organizational skills. 
Moderate improvement in self-discipline.


 

 Psalm 15


Don’t ignore the gnats.
Matthew 23:23–24
“…these you ought to have done…”
Deuteronomy 14:22–23; Leviticus 27:30; Leviticus 11:20–25
Don’t ignore the camels.
There are weightier matters of the law and there are lighter matters.
What is important when it comes to the Gospel? (1 Cor. 15:1–11). 
What is important when it comes to God’s commandments? (Matt. 22:36–40). 
What is more important when it comes to our response to God? (Mark 7).
Straining out gnats doesn’t compensate for the camels.
Matthew 23:14, 4, 16–19
Luke 10:24–29
If we strain out the camels, we’ll strain out the gnats.
We have to trust Jesus’ teaching. 
When I have the right focus and emphasis, I will practice righteousness.


 

I see…
God in submission to man 
Unjust treatment of a perfect person
Greatest paradox ever
LOVE

I feel… 
Saddened that it took  that to atone for my sin
Guilt for any sin I continue to commit
Hebrews 6:6
His love for me
Joy – because He bore my sins!

I must…
Love Him
Be humble before Him
Never boast in myself
Be willing to forsake all for His sake
Give Him my life, my soul, my all

  

 John 1:9–11
The Jews Killed Jesus
John 1:9–11; Deuteronomy 7:6; Isaiah 53:3
John 11:47–53, 55–57
Matthew 26:47; 27:25
Acts 2:36; 3:13–15
The Romans Killed Jesus
John 19:10; Mark 15:15
Mark 15:15–24
Acts 4:24–28
You Killed Jesus
Isaiah 53:3–6
1 Peter 2:24; 3:18
The Shocking Truth: Jesus did it Willingly
John 10:17–18; Acts 4:24–28
Isaiah 53:10–12
Romans 5:6–8; Ephesians 2:4–10
 

 Ephesians 1:20–23


He works constantly.
1 Peter 5:8
Satan is always looking for a victim (Job 1:7, 2:2).
He works efficiently.
John 13:2
Acts 5:1–11
1 Corinthians 7:5
Satan is good at his job and we need to realize who the target is: YOU.
Deal with the Devil: 
Check your armor daily. 
Ephesians 6:12–17
Know that Satan’s power is limited.
John 12:31; Ephesians 1:20–23


 

 Allan Speaks to us for the second time reviewing the story of the woman who honored Jesus by pouring perfume upon his feet.   

 Psalm 34:1–3
Your Prayer Life
Worship In Prayer
Psalm 33:1–2; 34:1–3
Your Prayer Life
“Blessed are you”
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
1 Thessalonians 5:17–18
We should thank God for what He does.
Our prayers of thanksgiving are often too generic. 
A Prayer of Praise
No “I”s.
2 Chronicles 20:6 2 Samuel 22:1–4, 31–32 1 Timothy 1:17
Praising God will make us more like God.
Some Quick Suggestions
Start sentences with “you” not “I.”
Use the names of God to launch into praise.
Use scripture in your prayers of praise.
 

 This is Dean's 2nd time speaking. He reminds us of the suffering of our Savior, why he had to suffer, and what we should do in response to his love. 

"And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." 
1 Corinthians 2:1-2

 STORMS OF LIFE
MARK 4:35-40
35 On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” 36 Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?” 39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”[a]

MARK 4:40
But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”[
MARK 4:36
Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him
MATT 5:45
that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
MARK 4:39
Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm.
PSALMS 46:1-3
God is our refuge and strength,         A very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear,         Even though the earth be removed,          And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3 Though its waters roar and be troubled,         Though the mountains shake with its swelling.  Selah  
MARK 4:35
On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.”
MARK 4:41
And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”

PSALMS 37:38-40
But the transgressors shall be destroyed together;         The future of the wicked shall be cut off.           39 But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD;         He is their strength in the time of trouble. 40 And the LORD shall help them and deliver them;         He shall deliver them from the wicked,          And save them,          Because they trust in Him.

 

 Playing by the rules!
I Cor. 9:24 - 
 “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.”

Eph. 4:11-14
"And he Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 'til we all come to the unity of faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."

Acts 1:7-8
7 And He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Acts 2:37-38
36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” 37 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” 38 Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Eph. 6:11-12
“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
Eph. 1:4-6
4 “…just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, 5 having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, 6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved.” 
2 Pet. 3:9-10
“9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.11 Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12 looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat?
Will you run the race?(Or, sit idly by?)
Pessimistic
Apathetic
Optimistic

Which one are you?

Let’s get in the race for the Lord!

 

 Matthew 25:14–15
Matthew 25:16–18
A Story About Gifts
Matthew 25:14–30
There is a high fee for storage. 
Fight against your fears–use your gifts.
Three Lessons I Learn About The Lord:
He is the Lord of the gifts. 
He is the Lord of the settled account. 
He is the Lord of the reward. 

 

 The danger of a “felt-based” life.
It promotes the sin of disobedience.
Eph. 5:25; Mark 12:31; Matt. 5:43–44
Eph. 4:31–32
It promotes self-willed doctrine.
2 Tim. 4:1–4; 2 Cor. 1:8–9; 2:12–13
John 12:23–28; Matt. 26:38–42
It promotes procrastination.
How did Jesus handle His feelings?
He admitted His feelings. 
He requested support from friends. 
He knew emotional suffering did not separate Him from God. 
He knew obedience was rewarded. 

 

 2 Kings 5:9–11
2 Kings 5:12


The story of Naaman
2 Kings 5:1–16
Naaman was a great man.He was also a leper.
He was offered a cure, but he refused it initially.
The wisdom of a servant convinces him to accept the cure.
What do we learn? 
Our sin is like leprosy.
There is a cure. 
We must accept the cure. 
Baptism is a simple cure. 
You must obey to be cured.


 

 Romans 12:1–2


The Teaching of Jesus
Luke 11:24–26
Why did this man fail? 
Because he didn’t understand the principle of replacement. 
We can achieve freedom by replacing our old thoughts with God’s thoughts.
Romans 12:1–2; Philippians 4:8
You aren’t what you think you; you are what you think!
“For as a man thinks in his heart, so is he!” (Proverbs 23:7)
The strategy for gaining freedom:
Prepare for battle: 
Identify thoughts you need to replace. 
Use discipline to prepare yourself. 
Find scripture that replace your thoughts. 
Use your artillery.
 

 Hope for the Weary Worker
John 4’s principles of sowing and reaping
1 Hope for Weary Workers
2 God’s work includes reaping and sowing
3 Sowing is the vital work
4 God will reward both sowers and reapers

 

 
One Marshmallow or Two?
The Key to Raising Kids to Follow Jesus 


Teach the Marshmallow Principle all the time, every time
Model two marshmallows
Teach the skills necessary to deny the one marshmallow
Reward self-discipline

 

 
The Parable of the Lost Dogs
The Parable of the Lost Dogs
It’s stupid to get lost
Finding the lost takes a lot of effort
There is great joy when the lost are found

 

 Feb 28 – March 3, 2010

Helping Little Hearts Worship
Get the right goal . . .
Training children to worship God
Training children to worship
Affection – love for God
Concentration – think about God
Participation – do the acts of worship
 

 Feb 28 – March 3, 2010

McWorship is casual and quick. Real worship takes time and preparation
McWorship is casual and quick. Real worship takes time and preparation
McWorshipers want to be served, not serve
McWorship is junk food,can’t feed the soul

 

 
Feb 28 – March 3, 2010
Getting Ready to Be Pure
Learning from the Great Baby Race
The Great Baby Race
God’s plan is best: one man for one woman
The Great Baby Race
Sex does not equal love.
The Great Baby Race
Children don’t solve marriage problems.
The Great Baby Race
God’s plan is best: one man for one woman
Sex does not equal love
Children don’t solve marriage problems

 

 Because we are not children of God.
If I am not a child of God, I have no right to ask Him for anything. 
John 9:31; Proverbs 28:9; 1 John 3:22
Because we are unholy children.
Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1–2; 1 Timothy 2:8
Three ways we are unholy: 
Impenitent
Unforgiving
Family problems.
Because we lack faith.
James 1:5–7; Matthew 21:21–22; Matthew 9:29
We walk by faith, not by sight.
Because we pray for our own selfish desires—not for God’s will.
James 4:3; 1 John 5:14; Matthew 26:39
How do I know if I am praying with the right desire? Romans 12:1–2
The purpose of prayer? 
To give God the Glory. 
John 11:40–43

 

 2 Corinthians 12:7–8
2 Corinthians 12:9–10

Why doesn’t God help us?
Because we want God over the minimum requirements in our life but no more. God demands more. 
Luke 18:18–23
What does God want from me?
Philippians 2:9–13
James 1:2–4
What God truly wants is a committed life that conforms to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29).
How do I give myself to God?
Thank God for temptation and the opportunities they present in your life. 
Give yourself and your problems completely to God. 
Realize your ultimate goal is not victory, but a relationship with God Himself.


 

The Conscience of Guilt
Every sin has its consequence.
The greatest consequence of sin is guilt.
Guilt has a purpose (Rom. 3:23; Acts 2:37).
But we must release the guilt.
God has given us a remedy for our past(1 Corinthians 6:9–11).
Principles of Handling Guilt:
Identify the cause your feeling of guilt.
Realize God’s remedy for sin is complete.
Thank God for forgiveness—evenwhen you feel guilty.
Pursue healing in every area of your life.
We Must Learn To Accept God’s Grace.
“Grace Greater Than Our Sin”
John 8:11–12

Philippians 2:3–4
How does this passage apply to your marriage?
Do nothing from rivalry.
In humility, count your spouse as more important than yourself. 
Look out for the interests of your spouse. 
Why this attitude accomplishes harmony in the home:
It replaces selfishness with service. 
It provides understanding. 
It grants significance. 
It creates trust and mercy. 
It stops hypocrisy.
It communicates love clearly. 
Two things you can’t do with this text: 
Manipulate your spouse. 
Attack your spouse’s behavior. 

2 Corinthians 6:1–2
The Greatest Danger—Tomorrow
Exodus 8:8–15
We tried to disguise eternity.
Walking With God Today
Three things to start every day with: 
Acknowledge your dependency on God. 
Tell God your concerns.
Invite God to spend the day with you. 
Getting ready for the day.
A reminder that we have been washed in Christ’s blood. 
The need for proper spiritual clothing.

Walking With God Today
Eating our daily bread. 
A reminder of God’s providence. 
A reminder of the need for a spiritual diet.
Being a worker for the Lord. 
The odds and ends of life.
Don’t forget God is with you!

Why is there so much temptation?
Temptations prove that our passion for God is greater than our passion for sin.
Temptations help develop character.
Temptations provide an opportunity to be strengthened.
The Ground Rules:
We must believe that God is good.
Genesis 3:4–5
We must take ownership for our behavior.
Genesis 3:11–13
We must trust in God. 
Genesis 3:15
We must believe we can win the war. 
Mark 9:23