Fresh Perspective (week 4) What Truly Fulfilled
Going Deeper
Fresh Perspective (Week 4) What Truly Fulfills
Pastor John Feb. 2, 2025
*Open with prayer.
1. List elements of the “American Dream.”
Fresh Perspective (Week 4) What Truly Fulfills
Pastor John Feb. 2, 2025
*Open with prayer.
1. List elements of the “American Dream.”
- The U.S.A. was founded on Christian values. We prided ourselves in being, “One nation
Under God.” What are some of the factions that blurred this vision? (Note Eph 2:4-5) - Read Luke 12:16-24. How does this parable speak to many Americans today? How about
Matt 6:19-21 and Matt 6:26-34? - Comedian Lily Tomlin once stated “The worst thing about the race is that, even if you win,
you’re still a rat!” What does she mean by that? - We were apparently created with a “God-shaped space” in our heart or soul, that can only
be satisfyingly filled with God. List examples of fame, power, wealth, achievement, that
clearly didn’t satisfy. What is the message of Col.3:1-2 that they should have focused on
first? - Can you identify a time that you achieved an earthy success, but were disappointed to
find that it didn’t satisfy as you expected? - Paul urges us to get out of the earthly rat race and focus on the race for eternal
achievements. Paraphrase Paul’s words in Phil 3:7-11. - Paul went through many difficult circumstances in his travels to share the
Gospel of Christ. Look up these examples.
Acts 21:27 Acts 21:30-31 Acts 21:33 Acts 21:34
Acts 22:22 Acts 22:24, 31 Acts 22:29 Acts 22:30
Acts 23:3 Acts 23:35 Acts 24:1-2 Acts 25:2, 7
Acts 25:24-27 Acts 26:24 Acts 27:11 Acts 27:41
Acts 27:42 Acts 28:3 Acts 28:16 - Paul, through all his troubles sees opportunity to serve and witness for Christ. What is the
example he shares in Phil 1:12-13? - Paul’s perspective was eternal (Phil 1:20b-22). He knew true success and security can
only be found in Jesus Christ. Can you point to things in your life that need a change
of perspective, and a change in the way you are dealing with these things.
Going Deeper Fresh Perspective (Week 4B) Change Pastor Jeff Howard Feb. 9, 2025
*Open with prayer.
II Corinthians 5:16-21 What a change Christ made in human history!
He was without sin, but took on the sin of all mankind to make us fit
to be called the children of God.
What is the purpose or job of an ambassador?
What should we do to be good ambassadors for Christ? II Cor. 5:20,
Prov. 13:17, Matt. 5:16, Matt. 28:19-20, John 14:28, John 20:21,
Acts 1:8, I Cor. 10:31, Eph. 2:10, Eph. 6:20, James 2:1-26, II Tim. 2:15,
I Peter 3:2
2. Things change constantly. My grandfather, 1891-1991, saw
incredible change in the world over almost a century of life. Pastor
Jeff speaks of change (technical and especially social) on Facebook in
its use for sharing opinions, family and career updates, games, and
reminisces. Reminiscing is not a bad thing, but almost no one wants
to live in the past.
Can you see how looking back in our lives helps us appreciate where
we are now in life and relationship with Christ? II Cor.5:17
Overall, do you feel blessed by the changes and experiences in your
life? (Or have they become forgotten routines?)
Can you cite ways that your old has passed away and your new has
come? (Are you willing to share examples?)
3. Everyone has sin and scars. How did Pastor Jeff define them?
Can you list examples of each? (not necessarily your own).
4. In his book, This Is the Day, Tim Tebow warns not to look back
negatively. Don’t wallow in regret for bad choices and
disappointments. Instead, thank God for opportunities and seek to
learn from them for a better future. Prov. 24:16, Rom. 8:10,
Rom. 8:28, Phil. 3:13, Heb.12:10-11
5. Thank God for our undeserved, unearnable grace! John 1:16,
Rom. 3:24, Rom. 5:15-17, II Cor. 5:18, II Cor. 12:9, Eph. 2:8-9,
James 4:6
6. How does our perspective on death change with our maturing faith
in Christ?
Psalm 46:1-3, Matt. 22:37-39, John 14:27, John 11:25-26,
I Cor. 15:51-54, II Cor. 5:8, II Tim. 1:7
How do you see most of the unbelieving world viewing death?
7. Can you add to Pastor Jeff’s list of things you saw or used while
growing up that your children will not see or experience?
8. Be open to God’s changes (His new thing for us). Trust Him. Don’t
look at change with fear. Change will happen. Seek God’s plan
for your life in every situation. Rom. 8:38-39.
9. Read Eccl. 3:1-8. If you can, listen to the old BYRDS’ song about
Eccl. 3:1-8 titled Turn! Turn! Turn!
*Close with prayer.
II Corinthians 5:16-21 What a change Christ made in human history!
He was without sin, but took on the sin of all mankind to make us fit
to be called the children of God.
What is the purpose or job of an ambassador?
What should we do to be good ambassadors for Christ? II Cor. 5:20,
Prov. 13:17, Matt. 5:16, Matt. 28:19-20, John 14:28, John 20:21,
Acts 1:8, I Cor. 10:31, Eph. 2:10, Eph. 6:20, James 2:1-26, II Tim. 2:15,
I Peter 3:2
2. Things change constantly. My grandfather, 1891-1991, saw
incredible change in the world over almost a century of life. Pastor
Jeff speaks of change (technical and especially social) on Facebook in
its use for sharing opinions, family and career updates, games, and
reminisces. Reminiscing is not a bad thing, but almost no one wants
to live in the past.
Can you see how looking back in our lives helps us appreciate where
we are now in life and relationship with Christ? II Cor.5:17
Overall, do you feel blessed by the changes and experiences in your
life? (Or have they become forgotten routines?)
Can you cite ways that your old has passed away and your new has
come? (Are you willing to share examples?)
3. Everyone has sin and scars. How did Pastor Jeff define them?
Can you list examples of each? (not necessarily your own).
4. In his book, This Is the Day, Tim Tebow warns not to look back
negatively. Don’t wallow in regret for bad choices and
disappointments. Instead, thank God for opportunities and seek to
learn from them for a better future. Prov. 24:16, Rom. 8:10,
Rom. 8:28, Phil. 3:13, Heb.12:10-11
5. Thank God for our undeserved, unearnable grace! John 1:16,
Rom. 3:24, Rom. 5:15-17, II Cor. 5:18, II Cor. 12:9, Eph. 2:8-9,
James 4:6
6. How does our perspective on death change with our maturing faith
in Christ?
Psalm 46:1-3, Matt. 22:37-39, John 14:27, John 11:25-26,
I Cor. 15:51-54, II Cor. 5:8, II Tim. 1:7
How do you see most of the unbelieving world viewing death?
7. Can you add to Pastor Jeff’s list of things you saw or used while
growing up that your children will not see or experience?
8. Be open to God’s changes (His new thing for us). Trust Him. Don’t
look at change with fear. Change will happen. Seek God’s plan
for your life in every situation. Rom. 8:38-39.
9. Read Eccl. 3:1-8. If you can, listen to the old BYRDS’ song about
Eccl. 3:1-8 titled Turn! Turn! Turn!
*Close with prayer.
Going Deeper Fresh Perspective (Week 4B) Change Pastor Jeff Howard Feb. 9, 2025
*Open with prayer.
II Corinthians 5:16-21 What a change Christ made in human history!
He was without sin, but took on the sin of all mankind to make us fit
to be called the children of God.
What is the purpose or job of an ambassador?
What should we do to be good ambassadors for Christ? II Cor. 5:20,
Prov. 13:17, Matt. 5:16, Matt. 28:19-20, John 14:28, John 20:21,
Acts 1:8, I Cor. 10:31, Eph. 2:10, Eph. 6:20, James 2:1-26, II Tim. 2:15,
I Peter 3:2
2. Things change constantly. My grandfather, 1891-1991, saw
incredible change in the world over almost a century of life. Pastor
Jeff speaks of change (technical and especially social) on Facebook in
its use for sharing opinions, family and career updates, games, and
reminisces. Reminiscing is not a bad thing, but almost no one wants
to live in the past.
Can you see how looking back in our lives helps us appreciate where
we are now in life and relationship with Christ? II Cor.5:17
Overall, do you feel blessed by the changes and experiences in your
life? (Or have they become forgotten routines?)
Can you cite ways that your old has passed away and your new has
come? (Are you willing to share examples?)
3. Everyone has sin and scars. How did Pastor Jeff define them?
Can you list examples of each? (not necessarily your own).
4. In his book, This Is the Day, Tim Tebow warns not to look back
negatively. Don’t wallow in regret for bad choices and
disappointments. Instead, thank God for opportunities and seek to
learn from them for a better future. Prov. 24:16, Rom. 8:10,
Rom. 8:28, Phil. 3:13, Heb.12:10-11
5. Thank God for our undeserved, unearnable grace! John 1:16,
Rom. 3:24, Rom. 5:15-17, II Cor. 5:18, II Cor. 12:9, Eph. 2:8-9,
James 4:6
6. How does our perspective on death change with our maturing faith
in Christ?
Psalm 46:1-3, Matt. 22:37-39, John 14:27, John 11:25-26,
I Cor. 15:51-54, II Cor. 5:8, II Tim. 1:7
How do you see most of the unbelieving world viewing death?
7. Can you add to Pastor Jeff’s list of things you saw or used while
growing up that your children will not see or experience?
8. Be open to God’s changes (His new thing for us). Trust Him. Don’t
look at change with fear. Change will happen. Seek God’s plan
for your life in every situation. Rom. 8:38-39.
9. Read Eccl. 3:1-8. If you can, listen to the old BYRDS’ song about
Eccl. 3:1-8 titled Turn! Turn! Turn!
*Close with prayer.
II Corinthians 5:16-21 What a change Christ made in human history!
He was without sin, but took on the sin of all mankind to make us fit
to be called the children of God.
What is the purpose or job of an ambassador?
What should we do to be good ambassadors for Christ? II Cor. 5:20,
Prov. 13:17, Matt. 5:16, Matt. 28:19-20, John 14:28, John 20:21,
Acts 1:8, I Cor. 10:31, Eph. 2:10, Eph. 6:20, James 2:1-26, II Tim. 2:15,
I Peter 3:2
2. Things change constantly. My grandfather, 1891-1991, saw
incredible change in the world over almost a century of life. Pastor
Jeff speaks of change (technical and especially social) on Facebook in
its use for sharing opinions, family and career updates, games, and
reminisces. Reminiscing is not a bad thing, but almost no one wants
to live in the past.
Can you see how looking back in our lives helps us appreciate where
we are now in life and relationship with Christ? II Cor.5:17
Overall, do you feel blessed by the changes and experiences in your
life? (Or have they become forgotten routines?)
Can you cite ways that your old has passed away and your new has
come? (Are you willing to share examples?)
3. Everyone has sin and scars. How did Pastor Jeff define them?
Can you list examples of each? (not necessarily your own).
4. In his book, This Is the Day, Tim Tebow warns not to look back
negatively. Don’t wallow in regret for bad choices and
disappointments. Instead, thank God for opportunities and seek to
learn from them for a better future. Prov. 24:16, Rom. 8:10,
Rom. 8:28, Phil. 3:13, Heb.12:10-11
5. Thank God for our undeserved, unearnable grace! John 1:16,
Rom. 3:24, Rom. 5:15-17, II Cor. 5:18, II Cor. 12:9, Eph. 2:8-9,
James 4:6
6. How does our perspective on death change with our maturing faith
in Christ?
Psalm 46:1-3, Matt. 22:37-39, John 14:27, John 11:25-26,
I Cor. 15:51-54, II Cor. 5:8, II Tim. 1:7
How do you see most of the unbelieving world viewing death?
7. Can you add to Pastor Jeff’s list of things you saw or used while
growing up that your children will not see or experience?
8. Be open to God’s changes (His new thing for us). Trust Him. Don’t
look at change with fear. Change will happen. Seek God’s plan
for your life in every situation. Rom. 8:38-39.
9. Read Eccl. 3:1-8. If you can, listen to the old BYRDS’ song about
Eccl. 3:1-8 titled Turn! Turn! Turn!
*Close with prayer.
Going Deeper Fresh Perspective (Week 6) That Ship Has Sailed Pastor John Feb. 23, 2025
Fresh Perspective (Week 6) That Ship Has Sailed
Pastor John Feb. 23, 2025
*Open with prayer.
How do you think God views the many different denominations in His Church?
(I Cor. 1:10, I Cor. 12:12-27, Eph. 4:12-16). Catholic and Protestant are major divisions.
How many Protestant denominations can you list?
Can you name a common goal that all Christians share (or should?)
(Matt. 28:19-20, Mark 16:15-23, Acts 2:42-47, I Cor. 14:26, I Cor. 3:16, Eph. 4:4,
I Thes. 5:11, Heb. 10:24-25, James 5:14, James 5:27, I Tim: 3:14-15+,
II Tim. 3:15-17)
Worship fully. (Rom. 12:1-1-2)
Fellowship intentionally. (Heb. 10:25)
Give Generously. (II Cor. 9:7)
Serve passionately. (Rom. 12:11, Eph 6:7-8, I Peter 4:10-11)
*Overview
On a scale of 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (1 being a cruise ship passenger, minimally active,
and 10 being a fully dedicated battleship sailor, where would you place yourself on this
scale today? If not a 10, what can you do to move closer to that number?
Review the Perspective sermon series. Name at least one area that your awareness of
perspective has improved.
*Close in prayer.
Pastor John Feb. 23, 2025
*Open with prayer.
How do you think God views the many different denominations in His Church?
(I Cor. 1:10, I Cor. 12:12-27, Eph. 4:12-16). Catholic and Protestant are major divisions.
How many Protestant denominations can you list?
Can you name a common goal that all Christians share (or should?)
(Matt. 28:19-20, Mark 16:15-23, Acts 2:42-47, I Cor. 14:26, I Cor. 3:16, Eph. 4:4,
I Thes. 5:11, Heb. 10:24-25, James 5:14, James 5:27, I Tim: 3:14-15+,
II Tim. 3:15-17)
- As was pointed out in this week’s sermon, there can, and will be, many different views on
every topic and action that our local church congregation purposes. How can we develop
unified action without causing division and negativity within Rolling Plains Church? - What are the goals of a cruise ship crew?
- In contrast, what are the goals of a battleship crew?
- There is a spiritual battle raging in creation. (So never forget to put on the armor of God.)
Eph. 6:10-20, John 10:10, Rom. 16:20, II Cor. 10:4-5, I Peter 5:8-9 - Jesus gave His life to the battle of saving souls. John 3:16, Mark 10:43-45, Eph. 1:2-23
(What role did Christ model for us to follow?) - What must leaders of God’s Church (like battleship officers) do to promote victory over evil?
Acts 20:28, I Cor. 4:1, Eph. 2:19, Eph. 4:11-16, Eph. 5:3-20, Gal. 1:10-12, Gal. 6:10, James
3:1, I Tim. 3:12 & 15, I Tim. 4:8 & 14, I Peter 4:17 - Name a way or ways that you can contribute to leadership in God’s Church in each of these
areas.
Worship fully. (Rom. 12:1-1-2)
Fellowship intentionally. (Heb. 10:25)
Give Generously. (II Cor. 9:7)
Serve passionately. (Rom. 12:11, Eph 6:7-8, I Peter 4:10-11)
*Overview
On a scale of 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (1 being a cruise ship passenger, minimally active,
and 10 being a fully dedicated battleship sailor, where would you place yourself on this
scale today? If not a 10, what can you do to move closer to that number?
Review the Perspective sermon series. Name at least one area that your awareness of
perspective has improved.
*Close in prayer.
I Have Decided (Week 1) To Follow Jesus Pastor John March 2, 2025
I Have Decided (Week 1) To Follow Jesus
Pastor John March 2, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Pastor John March 2, 2025
*Open with prayer.
- John shared a report that the average adult makes 35,000 decisions a day. That number is mind-blowing! Although any decision can be life changing, how many decisions that you made over the last week seem insignificant to you now?
- How many cost you stress?
- On how many decisions did you seek God’s guidance (scripture, prayer, listening, Christian mentors)?
- Can you list any decisions you regret? Can you share examples? (God wants to be actively involved in all our decisions.)
- Two famous Bible decisions that reflect the wisdom of Solomon are found in I Kings 3:16-28 and I Kings 3:5-12. In the second example what kind of things would worldly people have chosen?
What would you have chosen? - The Christian decision-making guide called the 7 C’s uses communication, convictions, common sense, composition, counsel, circumstances, and control.
- A God directed life starts with trust. How do these verses from Pastor John’s sermon show that we should include God in our decision-making?
- Choose to give you heart to Jesus. Romans 10:9-10, Gal. 6:7-10, I Timothy 1:15-17, and Rev. 3:20. (Review from last study verses about following your own heart.)
- Choose not to rely on your own wisdom. Prov. 3:5, Prov. 4:5-7, Prov. 11:14, Prov. 15:22, Prov. 16:25-30 & 33, Prov. 22:3, Psalm 119:103-105, John 5:30
- Choose to surrender to God. Josh. 24:15, Psalm 25:4-5, Psalm 119:106, Prov. 3:6, Joel 3:14-16, I Peter 5:6-11
- Can you think of anything that you are failing to surrender to God?
Review the verses listed in #7 and follow John’s sermon direction
to give up control by acknowledging God daily, being in His Word,
worship, prayer, and fellowship with other believers. Seek awareness
of his presence trusting that He is a wise and loving God who has a
perfect plan for our lives. To keep yourself focused, try keeping a
journal or log of your progress in giving God control of your daily
decisions. Note decisions with which you struggle and as time
passes how they show progress in God’s leading.
Going Deeper, I Have Decided (Week #2). To Be Baptized Pastor John March 9, 2025
Going Deeper, I Have Decided (Week #2). To Be Baptized Pastor John March 9, 2025
*Open with prayer.
What is a sacrament?
*Open with prayer.
What is a sacrament?
- What two sacraments are recognized by the Global Methodist Church
(and most protestant churches, including the UMC - The Catholic Church recognizes seven sacraments - Baptism,
Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance and Reconciliation, Anointing
of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. (You may want to
“Google” any of these with which you are not familiar.) Can you
suggest why, although most of these are practiced in some form
in almost all Protestant churches, even though they’re not
recognized as sacraments? - There is one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. Eph. 4:4-6
How did Pastor John explain that baptism is more than an outward
sign? Matt. 28:18-20, Mark 1:4, Mark 16:16, Luke 3:3, John 3:23,
Acts 2:38-41, Acts 8:12, Acts 10:48, I Corn. 12:13, and Titus 3:5
Why did Pastor John say that we do not rebaptize even if done as an
infant or in another church? (Although times of remembering our
baptism are accepted, even encouraged.). - Water is always included in baptism whether it is done by sprinkling,
pouring, or immersion. Matt. 3:11, Matt. 3:16, Luke 3:16, Mark 1:8,
John 1:33, John 3:5, Acts 8:38, Acts 10:47, Acts 22:16 - Baptism is a symbol of repentance and inner cleansing from sin.
Acts 2:37-39, Acts 22:16 (As our bodies need washed of dirty
substances so our soul needs cleansed our spiritual soil and
filth.). List some examples of spiritual filth. - Baptism is a representation of the new birth in Christ. Col. 2:11-13,
Rom. 6:3-5 It replaces what Old Testament fleshly symbol of being a
believer in God? - Baptism signifies entrance into the household of faith.
Gal. 3:26-28 What symbols do you see Christians wearing
representing that they are on “the team” of reborn believers? - Baptism is a mark of Christian discipleship. Heb. 10:19-22
List some things from Pastor John’s sermon conclusion that you show
to the church and the world when you are baptized.
Going Deeper, I Have Decided (Week #3) To Commit to the Family of God Pastor John March 16, 2025
Going Deeper
I Have Decided (Week #3) To Commit to the Family of God
Pastor John March 16, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Pastor John again cites the study that reports that we make roughly
35,000 decisions each day. (Review Isa. 30:21) In what number or
percentage of these decisions do you believe that you listen for God’s
spiritual leading or ask yourself, “What would Jesus have me do”?
Luckily most decisions don’t have major consequences. Have you
experienced that the more you immerse yourself in God’s word,
prayer, and service the easier it becomes to make the “right” decision?
with which this is needed.
IV. We need accountability with family-like trust, pure motives, love, and
grace. Rom. 12:4-5. We need accountability in the church and in what
other groups or areas of our culture?
I Have Decided (Week #3) To Commit to the Family of God
Pastor John March 16, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Pastor John again cites the study that reports that we make roughly
35,000 decisions each day. (Review Isa. 30:21) In what number or
percentage of these decisions do you believe that you listen for God’s
spiritual leading or ask yourself, “What would Jesus have me do”?
Luckily most decisions don’t have major consequences. Have you
experienced that the more you immerse yourself in God’s word,
prayer, and service the easier it becomes to make the “right” decision?
- This “I Have Decided” sermon series has explored, “to follow Jesus”
and “to be baptized”. This third installment looks at deciding “to
commit to the family of God.” Our culture is suffering from a lack of
commitment. Can you list examples? - Why does the church even matter? Eph. 2:19-22, Matt. 18:20,
Matt. 28:19-20, Acts 2:42-47, Acts 20:20-28, Rom. 12:5, Eph. 4:11-13,
Eph. 4:15-16, Eph. 5:19-23, Col. 3:16, I Thes. 5:11, I Peter 2:5 - The church is the bride of Christ. Eph 5:30-32 To what aspects
of human marriage does this correspond? - The church is the body of Christ. Eph. 1:2-23 God is the head.
How are we the body?
We need each other. I Cor. 12:12-13
There are 4 reasons Pastor John says church membership matters.
I. It is the antidote to our cultural lack of commitment. How does the
church help us grow in our commitment to God and His mission?
II. It fulfills the felt need of belonging. (Which seems to be built into
our DNA.). Share examples.
with which this is needed.
IV. We need accountability with family-like trust, pure motives, love, and
grace. Rom. 12:4-5. We need accountability in the church and in what
other groups or areas of our culture?
- In what ways do you think it is more difficult to live a Christian life
without being a member of a church body? - Summarize how church membership is important to you.
- How do you feel that you are fulfilling your church membership
covenant? What step or steps could you take toward total
commitment?
Going Deeper I Have Decided (Week #4) To Make Jesus Lord Pastor John March 23, 2025
Going Deeper
I Have Decided (Week #4) To Make Jesus Lord
Pastor John March 23, 2025
*Open with prayer.
In this sermon series, Pastor John is emphasizing how important our
decisions or choices are for our earthly, and more importantly our
eternal existence! This week he speaks about the decision to make
Jesus Lord.
Match these adages or proverbs about the result of decisions with their
origins. Answers are at the end of this study sheet.
Reveal Answer
1. . . . Whatever a man sows this A. Anthelme Brillat-Savin, 1826
will he also reap. Ludwig Andreas Feuerbac, 1863
(slightly different wording)
____2. You are what you eat. B. Isaac Newton (3rd law of M)
____3. Garbage in, garbage out. C. Clint Eastwood, JLo, et. Al
____4. Cast your bread upon the D. Henry Ford
waters, for after many days
you will find it again
____5. What you put into things is what E. George Fuechsel (IBM)
your get out of them.
____6. You get what you give. F. Galatians 6:7 (Paul)
____7. Every action as an equal and G. Eccl. 11;1 (Solomon)
opposite reactio
Answers to match the adage: 1, F 2, A 3, E 4, G 5, D 6, C
7, B
I Have Decided (Week #4) To Make Jesus Lord
Pastor John March 23, 2025
*Open with prayer.
In this sermon series, Pastor John is emphasizing how important our
decisions or choices are for our earthly, and more importantly our
eternal existence! This week he speaks about the decision to make
Jesus Lord.
Match these adages or proverbs about the result of decisions with their
origins. Answers are at the end of this study sheet.
Reveal Answer
1. . . . Whatever a man sows this A. Anthelme Brillat-Savin, 1826
will he also reap. Ludwig Andreas Feuerbac, 1863
(slightly different wording)
____2. You are what you eat. B. Isaac Newton (3rd law of M)
____3. Garbage in, garbage out. C. Clint Eastwood, JLo, et. Al
____4. Cast your bread upon the D. Henry Ford
waters, for after many days
you will find it again
____5. What you put into things is what E. George Fuechsel (IBM)
your get out of them.
____6. You get what you give. F. Galatians 6:7 (Paul)
____7. Every action as an equal and G. Eccl. 11;1 (Solomon)
opposite reactio
- We are the sum of our choices. God gives us the choice to accept or reject
him. “What we do in life echos in eternity.” (Attributed to Marcus Aurelius)
What does Pastor John say is the greatest decision we can make?
Josh. 24:14-15, Psalm 23, Psalm 119:105, Matt. 4:19, Matt. 9:9, Matt. 28:20,
Luke 9:23, Luke 11:28, John 6:51, John 6:68, John 10:1-30, John 15:5 ,
John 20:31, Acts 22:16, Rom. 8:14, Rom. 10:9, Eph. 4:1-6, Eph. 5:1-2,
Phil. 2:9-11, Col. 2:6-7, Heb. 11:16, James 4:8, I John 2:1-6, - Name other religious gods of this world.
Name things that we make a god or an idol in this world by putting them
ahead of the one true God. - God draws a line in the sand. We are no longer to follow the way of the
world. Matt. 6:24, Phil. 3:13b - Lordship means sacrificially offering our whole lives to God. Holding
nothing back, all in for Him. Rom. 12:1-2 - Jesus as Lord means denial of self. Not our will but His be done.
Matt. 16:24-26 - Following Jesus as Lord means sacrifice. Giving up things you want if
they are in the way of following Him. Luke 9:57-58 - Following Jesus as Lord means conformity. Conform your life to His plan.
Luke 9:51-60 - Jesus as Lord means commitment. There are no days off, no looking
back, and no getting distracted. Luke 9:61-62
Questions to ask yourself.
A. What worldly thing may I be making an idol in my life?
B. What do I feel is holding me back from making Jesus Lord in every area
of my life?
This week pray for God to make you aware when you start putting
something before Him, or find something holding you back from fully
following His will and plan for your life.
Answers to match the adage: 1, F 2, A 3, E 4, G 5, D 6, C
7, B
Going Deeper I Have Decided (Week #5) To Make Good Choices Pastor John.
I Have Decided (Week #5) To Make Good Choices
Pastor John. March 30, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Reread Gal. 6:7-8. Give examples of “sowing” to please the flesh and the destruction that one will reap.
2. What are things that we can do to please the Spirit as we look forward to eternal life?
3. We must decide which we live for, the Spirit or the flesh. We must consider the consequences of the choices we make. Eph. 4:31, Matt. 6:14, Deut. 30:19, Rom. 1:18-23, Prov.20:1
4. It’s extremely important, that along with love, we give our children direction, correction, discipline, and allow them to experience the consequences of their choices. They must be able to take responsibility for their choices and not blame others (victim response). Deut. 6:5-9, I Sam. 1:15-18, Prov. 22:6, 15, Prov. 29:16-18, Isa. 54:13, Matt. 7:21-23, Gal. 5:22-23, Eph. 6:1-4, Col. 3:20-21, Heb. 12:7-11, I Tim. 5:8, Ex. 20:12
5. When we hear the message in the Word of God, we see that God has been pursuing a relationship with us through his Spirit, speaking to our heart offering His love and grace. Matt. 13:3-9
A. We gain understanding of the Godly life. Matt. 13:18-19, Ps. 102:3-5, Prov. 1:7, Prov. 19:23, Col. 3:2, Col. 3:13-16, Heb. 13:15, II Tim. 1:7
B. We evaluate our choices in the light of God’s teaching. Matt. 13:20-21, Prov. 3:5-6, Matt. 7:12, Luke 6:37, John 7:24, Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:17
C. Decide that you will not be derailed by distractions. Matt. 13:22, Deut. 12:32, Prov. 29:25, Rom. 12:2, Phil. 4:13, II Tim. 2:15-16
D. Plant good choices in God’s good soil. Matt. 13:23
What does this mean that you can or should do in real life actions?
6. Evaluate your habits (repeated choices, lifestyle, preferred activities, etc.).
A. Which ones sow seeds to the flesh?
B. Which ones show seeds to the Spirit?
7. Compare these choice-consequences quotes to Gal. 6:7-8.
A. The Bible is clear that those who fail to heed the Lord’s discipline - whether nation, cities, or individuals - suffer devastating consequences. Dr. Charles Stanley
B. But men never violate the laws of God without suffering consequences sooner or later. Lydia M. Child
C. In my case I learned that, although God loves us, he doesn’t grant us immunity from the consequences of our choices. Donna Rice
D. I believe that we are solely responsible for our choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and throughout of lifetime. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
E. Consequences are unpitying. George Elliot
8. Can you give examples of our nation suffering consequences for its choices? Cities? Individuals?
*Close in prayer.
Pastor John. March 30, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Reread Gal. 6:7-8. Give examples of “sowing” to please the flesh and the destruction that one will reap.
2. What are things that we can do to please the Spirit as we look forward to eternal life?
3. We must decide which we live for, the Spirit or the flesh. We must consider the consequences of the choices we make. Eph. 4:31, Matt. 6:14, Deut. 30:19, Rom. 1:18-23, Prov.20:1
4. It’s extremely important, that along with love, we give our children direction, correction, discipline, and allow them to experience the consequences of their choices. They must be able to take responsibility for their choices and not blame others (victim response). Deut. 6:5-9, I Sam. 1:15-18, Prov. 22:6, 15, Prov. 29:16-18, Isa. 54:13, Matt. 7:21-23, Gal. 5:22-23, Eph. 6:1-4, Col. 3:20-21, Heb. 12:7-11, I Tim. 5:8, Ex. 20:12
5. When we hear the message in the Word of God, we see that God has been pursuing a relationship with us through his Spirit, speaking to our heart offering His love and grace. Matt. 13:3-9
A. We gain understanding of the Godly life. Matt. 13:18-19, Ps. 102:3-5, Prov. 1:7, Prov. 19:23, Col. 3:2, Col. 3:13-16, Heb. 13:15, II Tim. 1:7
B. We evaluate our choices in the light of God’s teaching. Matt. 13:20-21, Prov. 3:5-6, Matt. 7:12, Luke 6:37, John 7:24, Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:17
C. Decide that you will not be derailed by distractions. Matt. 13:22, Deut. 12:32, Prov. 29:25, Rom. 12:2, Phil. 4:13, II Tim. 2:15-16
D. Plant good choices in God’s good soil. Matt. 13:23
What does this mean that you can or should do in real life actions?
6. Evaluate your habits (repeated choices, lifestyle, preferred activities, etc.).
A. Which ones sow seeds to the flesh?
B. Which ones show seeds to the Spirit?
7. Compare these choice-consequences quotes to Gal. 6:7-8.
A. The Bible is clear that those who fail to heed the Lord’s discipline - whether nation, cities, or individuals - suffer devastating consequences. Dr. Charles Stanley
B. But men never violate the laws of God without suffering consequences sooner or later. Lydia M. Child
C. In my case I learned that, although God loves us, he doesn’t grant us immunity from the consequences of our choices. Donna Rice
D. I believe that we are solely responsible for our choices, and we have to accept the consequences of every deed, word, and throughout of lifetime. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross
E. Consequences are unpitying. George Elliot
8. Can you give examples of our nation suffering consequences for its choices? Cities? Individuals?
*Close in prayer.
I Have Decided (Week #6) I’m Responsible Pastor John April 13, 2025
I Have Decided (Week #6) I’m Responsible
Pastor John April 13, 2025
Open with prayer.
D. Pilate, a Roman governor, hands Christ over to be executed.
Matt. 27:17, 24-25, John 19:12
A. Sooner or later, everyone sits down to a banquet of consequences.
Robert Lewis Stevenson
B. Sometimes, when I consider the consequences of little things, I am tempted to think that there are no little things. Bruce Barton
C. It’s easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities. Josiah Stamp
D. Nobody ever did, or ever will, escape the consequences of his choices.
Alfred A. Montapert
E. You can say whatever you want, but there’s going to be consequences to it. Neal Brennan
F. The choices we make, however, determine to a large extent our happiness or our unhappiness, because we have to live with the consequences of our choices.
James E. Faust
G. Life is about making choices, seeing those choices through, and living through the consequences. Molly Bloom
*Close in prayer.
Pastor John April 13, 2025
Open with prayer.
- We are responsible for whatever harvest comes (from the choices or decisions that we sow). Review Gal. 6:7-9, which is a great lesson to be learned by God’s children. What is a victim response (playing the victim)?
- We will make bad choices. Rom. 3:23-24, Prov. 14:12, Prov. 28:13, Matt. 7:1-29,
Rom. 13:12, I Cor. 15:33, Eph. 4:1b-24 - Christ paid the price for our sin and bad decisions. Isa. 53:5-6, Matt. 20: 28, John 1:29, Rom. 6:23, Col. 2:14, Gal. 3:13, I Peter 2:24, Heb. 9:28, Heb. 10:14, I John 2:2, I Tim. 2:5-6, Titus 2:14, II Cor. 5:21
- Christ’s final day
A. Religious leaders plot to kill Jesus. Matt. 26:3-5, Luke 22:2, John 11:45-57
B. Peter denies knowing Jesus. Matt. 26:33-35, 69-75, Mark 14: 29-31, Mark 14:66-72, Luke 22:54-62, John 13:36-38, John 18:15-18
How do these accounts differ?
D. Pilate, a Roman governor, hands Christ over to be executed.
Matt. 27:17, 24-25, John 19:12
- What consequences result from their decisions in Jesus’ final days?
A. Religious leaders, Matt. 28:15, other verses?
B. Judas, Matt:27
C. Peter, Matt.26:75, Mark 14:72, Luke 22:61-62, John 21:15-19, plus other results later in his life
D. Pilate, nothing specific in the Bible, but ancient writers say he was recalled to Rome in shame and committed suicide. Another story states that his wife was baptized as a believer and that he had her executed.
E. Speculate on what could have resulted if these people made better choices.
F. Could Jesus have paid for our sins and delivered His grace without shedding His blood on the cross? - How does Pastor John say, “We are all part of the crowd”?
We need to be like the thief on the cross. Luke 23:40-43, I John 1:9
Find at least one Bible verse in our study, or from your own Bible research, to support the following statements.
A. Make good choices.
B. Take responsibility for our choices, not blaming others or mocking God.
C. Confess our sin.
D. Repent and try to reconcile with those against whom we’ve sinned.
E. Accept God’s healing forgiveness. - Adam and Eve committed the original sin (Gen. chapter 3). We are still living with the consequences. Without sin entering the world, think about what things in life would be different today.
A. Sooner or later, everyone sits down to a banquet of consequences.
Robert Lewis Stevenson
B. Sometimes, when I consider the consequences of little things, I am tempted to think that there are no little things. Bruce Barton
C. It’s easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities. Josiah Stamp
D. Nobody ever did, or ever will, escape the consequences of his choices.
Alfred A. Montapert
E. You can say whatever you want, but there’s going to be consequences to it. Neal Brennan
F. The choices we make, however, determine to a large extent our happiness or our unhappiness, because we have to live with the consequences of our choices.
James E. Faust
G. Life is about making choices, seeing those choices through, and living through the consequences. Molly Bloom
*Close in prayer.
I Have Decided (Week #7) Easter Sunday Pastor John ~ April 20, 2025
I Have Decided (Week #7) Easter Sunday
Pastor John ~ April 20, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Easter Sunday opened the way to salvation and eternal life for all mankind! Matt. 28:1-10, Mark 16:2-9, Luke 24:6-7, John 20:1-22
Jesus was seen by more than 500 witnesses after he was raised from the dead. No body was ever found by those who tried to disprove his résurrection.
2. List some of the old Easter hymns and any more modern songs you’ve found that praise God for this world changing event.
3. Note the main points of the Easter weekend story in your own words.
4. What will you do with this news?
A. Decide who Jesus is. (Every person must answer this question.)
Matt. 16:13-16 (Some said Jesus was a prophet, a teacher, or just a good moral man). Who did Jesus say He was? John 6:35-36, John 8:12, John 8:58, John 10:11, John 10:30, John 11:25, John 14:16, John 15:5 (There are 165 similar references in the Bible).
Note: C. S. Lewis who wrestled with this question for years before he accepted Christ as the Son of God, said logically Jesus’ claims made Him either a liar, lunatic, or Lord. Lewis could find no evidence that Jesus ever lied about anything. His behavior showed that He was wise, intelligent, caring and sane by every measure. This left Lewis with the only logical conclusion that Jesus was Lord, the Son of God as He said He was. (Over two thousand years later He is still the greatest influence on mankind in the history of the world.) Mark 15:39
B. Decide to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord. (It’s not enough to just believe).
John 1:12-13, Rom. 10:-9-10, Gal. 6:7-10, I Tim. 1:15-17
C. Decide to be baptized. Matt. 28:18-20, Mark 16:16, Luke 3:3, John 3:23, Rom. 6:3-4, Acts 2:37-39, Acts 22:16
D. Commit to the family of God. Matt. 18:20, Rom. 12:5, Col. 3:16, Eph. 2:19-22,
I Thes. 5:11
5. Which life do you choose? A life in Christ led by His Spirt and Word or a self-directed worldly life with no clear assurance of eternal life in heaven? Josh. 24:15, John 10:10, I John 5:11b-12
6. Match these celebrities/authors with their secular quotes on choices/consequences. (Answers below, don’t peek it’s just for fun).
1. ____Grace Jones A. Actions have consequences.
2. ____Geo. B. Shaw B. Wisdom consists of the anticipation of consequences.
3. ____Tom Cotton C. Everything has positive and negative consequences.
4. ____Leo DiCaprio D. I want to be a jerk . . . and not care about the consequences, but I just can’t now.
5. ____Larry King E. If you do something, expect consequences.
6. ____Sam Levinson F. All human sin seems so much worse
in its consequences than its intentions.
7. ____Norman Cousins G. Sobriety has a way of allowing a person
to begin to realize that the things you do
have consequences for the people you
love.
8. ____B. F. Skinner H. Nothing is worth doing unless the consequences may be serious.
9. ____John F. Kennedy I. When anger rises, think of consequences.
10. ____Reinhold Niebuhr J. Everyone has to make their own decisions. I still believe in that. You just have to able to accept the
consequences without complaining.
11. ____Farrah Fawcett K. A man does what he must - in spite of the consequences, in spite of the obstacles and dangers and pressures - and this is the basis of all human morality.
12.____Conufcius L. The consequences of an act affect the probability of its occurring again.
7. List one or more new Easter choices that would strengthen your relationship with, and service to, Christ.
*Close with prayer.
12-I, 11-C, 10-F, 9-K, 8-L, 7-B, 6-G, 5-E, 4-D, 3-A, 2-H, 1-J
Pastor John ~ April 20, 2025
*Open with prayer.
Easter Sunday opened the way to salvation and eternal life for all mankind! Matt. 28:1-10, Mark 16:2-9, Luke 24:6-7, John 20:1-22
Jesus was seen by more than 500 witnesses after he was raised from the dead. No body was ever found by those who tried to disprove his résurrection.
2. List some of the old Easter hymns and any more modern songs you’ve found that praise God for this world changing event.
3. Note the main points of the Easter weekend story in your own words.
4. What will you do with this news?
A. Decide who Jesus is. (Every person must answer this question.)
Matt. 16:13-16 (Some said Jesus was a prophet, a teacher, or just a good moral man). Who did Jesus say He was? John 6:35-36, John 8:12, John 8:58, John 10:11, John 10:30, John 11:25, John 14:16, John 15:5 (There are 165 similar references in the Bible).
Note: C. S. Lewis who wrestled with this question for years before he accepted Christ as the Son of God, said logically Jesus’ claims made Him either a liar, lunatic, or Lord. Lewis could find no evidence that Jesus ever lied about anything. His behavior showed that He was wise, intelligent, caring and sane by every measure. This left Lewis with the only logical conclusion that Jesus was Lord, the Son of God as He said He was. (Over two thousand years later He is still the greatest influence on mankind in the history of the world.) Mark 15:39
B. Decide to receive Jesus as Savior and Lord. (It’s not enough to just believe).
John 1:12-13, Rom. 10:-9-10, Gal. 6:7-10, I Tim. 1:15-17
C. Decide to be baptized. Matt. 28:18-20, Mark 16:16, Luke 3:3, John 3:23, Rom. 6:3-4, Acts 2:37-39, Acts 22:16
D. Commit to the family of God. Matt. 18:20, Rom. 12:5, Col. 3:16, Eph. 2:19-22,
I Thes. 5:11
5. Which life do you choose? A life in Christ led by His Spirt and Word or a self-directed worldly life with no clear assurance of eternal life in heaven? Josh. 24:15, John 10:10, I John 5:11b-12
6. Match these celebrities/authors with their secular quotes on choices/consequences. (Answers below, don’t peek it’s just for fun).
1. ____Grace Jones A. Actions have consequences.
2. ____Geo. B. Shaw B. Wisdom consists of the anticipation of consequences.
3. ____Tom Cotton C. Everything has positive and negative consequences.
4. ____Leo DiCaprio D. I want to be a jerk . . . and not care about the consequences, but I just can’t now.
5. ____Larry King E. If you do something, expect consequences.
6. ____Sam Levinson F. All human sin seems so much worse
in its consequences than its intentions.
7. ____Norman Cousins G. Sobriety has a way of allowing a person
to begin to realize that the things you do
have consequences for the people you
love.
8. ____B. F. Skinner H. Nothing is worth doing unless the consequences may be serious.
9. ____John F. Kennedy I. When anger rises, think of consequences.
10. ____Reinhold Niebuhr J. Everyone has to make their own decisions. I still believe in that. You just have to able to accept the
consequences without complaining.
11. ____Farrah Fawcett K. A man does what he must - in spite of the consequences, in spite of the obstacles and dangers and pressures - and this is the basis of all human morality.
12.____Conufcius L. The consequences of an act affect the probability of its occurring again.
7. List one or more new Easter choices that would strengthen your relationship with, and service to, Christ.
*Close with prayer.
12-I, 11-C, 10-F, 9-K, 8-L, 7-B, 6-G, 5-E, 4-D, 3-A, 2-H, 1-J
Lighten Up! Pastor Jeff Howard ~ April 27, 2025
Lighten Up!
Jeff Howard
April 27, 2025
Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.”
Proverbs 17:22 "A happy heart is good medicine {and} a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones."
Ecclesiastes 3:4 "... a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance..."
Look in the mirror and laugh at yourself.
Action Steps:
1. Slow Down
2. Trust in the goodness of God
3. Learn to Laugh Again
Jeff Howard
April 27, 2025
Proverbs 31:25: “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.”
Proverbs 17:22 "A happy heart is good medicine {and} a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones."
Ecclesiastes 3:4 "... a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn and a time to dance..."
Look in the mirror and laugh at yourself.
Action Steps:
1. Slow Down
2. Trust in the goodness of God
3. Learn to Laugh Again
The Rear View Mirror Dave Rupe ~ May 4, 2025
The Rear View Mirror
May 4, 2025
By: Dave Rupe
“Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: ‘Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.’” —Acts 2:14-21
“God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said, The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet. Therefore, let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” —Acts 2:32-36
“Those who accepted this message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” —Acts 2:41
“As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.” —Acts 5:15-16
“Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” —Acts 5:38-39
“But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.” —Acts 8:3
“…’Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.’” —Acts 9:15-16
Jesus came to this earth so dead people could live!
“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” —John 3:17
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” —2 Corinthians 5:21
“He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” —Romans 4:25
“Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.” —Acts 13:39
Action Steps
I want to leave you with a few questions:
What if Peter and Paul were rear view mirror lookers?
Are you constantly looking in your rear view mirror at mistakes from your past?
Is it time to rip the rear view mirror off in your life?
May 4, 2025
By: Dave Rupe
“Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: ‘Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord.’” —Acts 2:14-21
“God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said, The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet. Therefore, let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” —Acts 2:32-36
“Those who accepted this message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” —Acts 2:41
“As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.” —Acts 5:15-16
“Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” —Acts 5:38-39
“But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.” —Acts 8:3
“…’Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.’” —Acts 9:15-16
Jesus came to this earth so dead people could live!
“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” —John 3:17
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” —2 Corinthians 5:21
“He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” —Romans 4:25
“Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.” —Acts 13:39
Action Steps
I want to leave you with a few questions:
What if Peter and Paul were rear view mirror lookers?
Are you constantly looking in your rear view mirror at mistakes from your past?
Is it time to rip the rear view mirror off in your life?
One Love Week #1 Uniting Us Pastor John ~ May 11, 2025
One Love Week #1 Uniting Us Pastor John ~ May 11, 2025
Open with prayer.
God desires a “oneness” of His creation. John 17:20-24, Eph. 1:10, Ps. 24:1+
God desires the same unity for us that He has with Himself. (One God, three distinct parts; Father, Son/Jesus, Holy Spirit) II Chron. 30:12, Mal. 2:10, John 13:35, Rom. 12:4-5, Rom. 12:16-18, Gal. 3:26-28
With all the differences, ideas, opinions, interpretations, church rituals, church structures, cultures etc., oneness or unity may seem impossible to accomplish. How does Pastor John suggest that God states it is possible? (sermon notes 5/11) Matt. 19:26, Rom. 15:5, I Cor. 12:12-13, Eph. 4:13
“In Christ, all believers are united, regardless of their differences, as we are equal before God.”
Why does divine unity among believers matter so much?
A. Godly unity is attractive. Ps. 133:1-2, Eph. 4:2-6, Eph. 4:16
B. Godly unity is the heart of revival. John 13:34-35, Rom. 12:16-18, I Tim. 2:3-4, I John 4:12
C. Sharing the love of God is a natural response to receiving His love. Matt. 22:37-40, Col. 3:14-15, Gal. 5:14
D. Unity requires humility. Matt 23:8, Eph. 4:2-3, Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:13-14, Phil. 2:1-2, I Peter 3:8
There will be contentious moments. Consider how we can loosen our grip on all but God’s love, while not losing our firm commitment to our core values? (Review Bible verses in #3 above.)
List some examples in your life, or in the lives of others, in which unity was important to success.
Have you seen examples of projects or activities that failed because of a lack of unity? Note that here.
Meditate on this … “Unity is a powerful force that brings believers together, strengthens relationships, and reflects the love of Christ to the world … Let’s commit ourselves to pursuing unity in our lives, valuing and cherishing one another, and working together for the advancement of God’s Kingdom. May our unity be a testimony to the power of Christ and draw others to His loving embrace.”
Open with prayer.
God desires a “oneness” of His creation. John 17:20-24, Eph. 1:10, Ps. 24:1+
God desires the same unity for us that He has with Himself. (One God, three distinct parts; Father, Son/Jesus, Holy Spirit) II Chron. 30:12, Mal. 2:10, John 13:35, Rom. 12:4-5, Rom. 12:16-18, Gal. 3:26-28
With all the differences, ideas, opinions, interpretations, church rituals, church structures, cultures etc., oneness or unity may seem impossible to accomplish. How does Pastor John suggest that God states it is possible? (sermon notes 5/11) Matt. 19:26, Rom. 15:5, I Cor. 12:12-13, Eph. 4:13
“In Christ, all believers are united, regardless of their differences, as we are equal before God.”
Why does divine unity among believers matter so much?
A. Godly unity is attractive. Ps. 133:1-2, Eph. 4:2-6, Eph. 4:16
B. Godly unity is the heart of revival. John 13:34-35, Rom. 12:16-18, I Tim. 2:3-4, I John 4:12
C. Sharing the love of God is a natural response to receiving His love. Matt. 22:37-40, Col. 3:14-15, Gal. 5:14
D. Unity requires humility. Matt 23:8, Eph. 4:2-3, Eph. 4:32, Col. 3:13-14, Phil. 2:1-2, I Peter 3:8
There will be contentious moments. Consider how we can loosen our grip on all but God’s love, while not losing our firm commitment to our core values? (Review Bible verses in #3 above.)
List some examples in your life, or in the lives of others, in which unity was important to success.
Have you seen examples of projects or activities that failed because of a lack of unity? Note that here.
Meditate on this … “Unity is a powerful force that brings believers together, strengthens relationships, and reflects the love of Christ to the world … Let’s commit ourselves to pursuing unity in our lives, valuing and cherishing one another, and working together for the advancement of God’s Kingdom. May our unity be a testimony to the power of Christ and draw others to His loving embrace.”