The Hope of Christmas

A Baby Will Come

Dec 2, 2012

Pastor Miles

1. In our broken world, people are looking for hope.

The kings of the earth set themselves,
and the rulers take counsel together,
against the Lord and against his Anointed, saying,
"Let us burst their bonds apart
and cast away their cords from us." (Psalm 2:2, 3 ESV)

The rulers of this world have refused to bend their knees to God.
The result is a broken world, filled with injustice, pain, and death.
Everyone is affected by the brokenness of the world, resulting in many loosing hope.

The kings of this world
Have torn it apart
But we can take heart
A baby will come

2. God spoke and announced a message of hope.

And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. (Luke 1:30, 31 ESV)

And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10, 11 ESV)

Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
"Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel." (Luke 2:25-32 ESV)

The basis for all our hope is this Child, reassuring us that our hope is not in vain.

The angel appeared
Said do not fear
For peace is here
A baby has come

3. We have hope because God has the last word.

He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty. (Luke 1:51-53 ESV)

On that day the Lord will punish
the host of heaven, in heaven,
and the kings of the earth, on the earth.
They will be gathered together
as prisoners in a pit;
they will be shut up in a prison,
and after many days they will be punished.
Then the moon will be confounded
and the sun ashamed,
for the Lord of hosts reigns
on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem,
and his glory will be before his elders. (Isaiah 24:21-23 ESV)

And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, (Revelation 21:22-24 ESV)

Despite what people say, we are valued. Christ came for us because He loved us.
Let this calm our doubts and fears as He has kept His promise.

Cause the kings of this world
Won’t have the last word
That, God, is Yours
For the Baby has come

Remember Me

Mark 14:12-26

Pastor Miles

November 18, 2012

1. Jesus made preparation for the Passover.

And on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, "Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?" And he sent two of his disciples and said to them, "Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us." And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as he had told them, and they prepared the Passover. (Mark 14:12-16 ESV)

2. Jesus predicts His betrayal.

And when it was evening, he came with the twelve. And as they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, "Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me." They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one after another, "Is it I?" He said to them, "It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the dish with me. For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born." (Mark 14:17-21 ESV)

Jesus continues to minister to His disciples despite the upcoming betrayal and desertion by His disciples. He wants to make sure they remember Him. Therefore He establishes a new tradition to remind them of what He has done for them.

3. Jesus establishes a new tradition.

And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, "Take; this is my body." And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. And he said to them, "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God." And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. (Mark 14:22-26 ESV)

A new covenant:

"Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the Lord. For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." (Jeremiah 31:31-34 ESV)

To partake of the body and blood of Jesus is to partake of this new covenant established by Jesus.
God knows what we need, and He knows what we need to remember.
Remember what communion (the meal) is represents, what He has done for us.

Tips for surviving the non-Christian workplace

From "The Incredible Power of Kingdom Authority" by Adrain Rogers

1. Do not brag

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)

• Let your light glow not glare!

2. Do not nag

Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. (Colossians 4:5, 6 ESV)

3. Do not lag

• Do your share, and more...

Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, (Ephesians 6:5, 6 ESV)

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23, 24 ESV)

Let all who are under a yoke as slaves regard their own masters as worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and the teaching may not be reviled. (1 Timothy 6:1 ESV)

4. Do not sag

• Do not compromise on your principles

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)

Which King? Which Kingdom?

Mark 6:14-44

Pastor Jeff

Nov 11, 2012

What are your dreams?

• Jesus had a "dream". He called it the Kingdom of God.
• It was the dream He brought and lived for.
• We are designed to give our lives to our dreams, whether we recognize that or not, whether we follow Jesus or not.
• The dream behind all good hopes and dreams is the Kingdom dream of Jesus.

Mark 6:14-44
2 Banquets, 2 Dreams, 2 Kingdoms

• Herod and his banquet birthday party
• Jesus and His banquet - feeding the 5000
• Jesus has compassion on them.
• Sees that they are like sheep without a shepherd

who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the Lord may not be as sheep that have no shepherd." (Numbers 27:17 ESV)

So they were scattered, because there was no shepherd, and they became food for all the wild beasts. (Ezekiel 34:5 ESV)

I will rescue my flock; they shall no longer be a prey. And I will judge between sheep and sheep. And I will set up over them one shepherd, my servant David, and he shall feed them: he shall feed them and be their shepherd. And I, the Lord, will be their God, and my servant David shall be prince among them. I am the Lord; I have spoken. (Ezekiel 34:22-24 ESV)

Compare and contrast the 2 banquets

• King: earthly vs heavenly
• Where: Galilee
• Place: palace vs wilderness
• Food: lavish vs simple
• Entertainment: indulgent, immoral dancing vs sermon
• Character: indulgence vs compassion
• Atmosphere: party vs miracle
• What: death vs life
• All leave: horrified, shock vs satisfied
• Kingdom: "my kingdom"; the kingdoms of the world vs God's Kingdom

Mark's big questions

• What is the Kingdom of God (KOG) like?
• Who is Jesus? The promised King and Son of God
• What He did? Died and rose again.
• What He is bringing? The KOG
• Will you follow Him?
• What does a follower of Jesus look like?

Which King? Which Kingdom?

• It is a choice every day. It is not a one time event. It is a journey.
• It involves death (but results in life)

And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? (Mark 8:34-37 ESV)

• It is worth it! The kingdom banquet.

Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. (Mark 6:39 ESV)

"Green grass" invokes Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of The Lord
forever. (Psalm 23:1-6 ESV)

Follow Me to the Cross

Mark 14-15

Pastor Miles

November 4, 2012

And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." And he took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. And he said to them, "My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch."
And going a little farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said, "Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." (Mark 14:32-36 ESV)

"Yet not what I will, but what you will."

• Are we prepared to "die" to self in our big plans (and the little ones) in our lives?

"all things are possible for you"

• God can do anything but can we surrender to His will despite our wants. Are we willing to surrender our will and desire to God? 

And he came the third time and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand." And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, "The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard." And when he came, he went up to him at once and said, "Rabbi!" And he kissed him. And they laid hands on him and seized him. But one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. And Jesus said to them, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled." And they all left him and fled. (Mark 14:41-50 ESV)

"Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me?"

• They were expecting resistance and rebellion from Jesus, but Jesus surrenders Himself to His Father's plan.
• Are we willing to surrender our "rights" to God's ways?
• E.g. Includes our rights to receive thanks and be appreciated for the things that we do.

Reflection: Will you surrender yourself to God?

Sweetly Broken by Jeremy Riddle

And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire. Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none. For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree. And some stood up and bore false witness against him, saying, "We heard him say, 'I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.'" Yet even about this their testimony did not agree. And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, "Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?" But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" (Mark 14:53-61 ESV)

And as soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole Council. And they bound Jesus and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate. And Pilate asked him, "Are you the King of the Jews?" And he answered him, "You have said so." And the chief priests accused him of many things. And Pilate again asked him, "Have you no answer to make? See how many charges they bring against you." But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed. (Mark 15:1-5 ESV)

• Jesus was accused of many things. Yet, He remained silent despite the false accusations. 
• What about us? We often defend ourselves vigorously even at the hint of any negative thing that is said against us. 
• Are we willing to humble ourselves to those who accuse us or judge us?

Now at the feast he used to release for them one prisoner for whom they asked. And among the rebels in prison, who had committed murder in the insurrection, there was a man called Barabbas. And the crowd came up and began to ask Pilate to do as he usually did for them. And he answered them, saying, "Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?" For he perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release for them Barabbas instead. And Pilate again said to them, "Then what shall I do with the man you call the King of the Jews?" And they cried out again, "Crucify him." And Pilate said to them, "Why, what evil has he done?" But they shouted all the more, "Crucify him." (Mark 15:6-14 ESV)

• Early in Jesus' ministry, the crowd was with Him (eg Palm Sunday). But Jesus knew how fickle the crowd can be. He did not base his self-worth on people's opinions. He humbly accepted rejection even by those whom He helped. 
• When we follow Jesus to the cross, he calls us to "die" to the opinion of others. 
• We are called to the One Opinion that matters! We live for the Audience of One - it's His approval that ultimately matters.

Reflection: His wounds have paid our ransom.

How Deep the Father's Love for Us

Pastoral Concerns

Mark 13:1-37

Pastor Miles

Oct 28, 2012

1. Jesus is concerned that we will be deceived.

And Jesus began to say to them, "See that no one leads you astray. Many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and they will lead many astray. And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. This must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains.

And then if anyone says to you, 'Look, here is the Christ!' or 'Look, there he is!' do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand. (Mark 13:5-8, 21-23 ESV)

• Watch that we won't be deceived by false prophets and worldly ways.
• We need to know the real Jesus in order to recognize the false ones.
• We can do this by studying His Word.

2. Jesus is concerned that we will be distracted from our mission.

"But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them. And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. And you will be hated by all for my name's sake. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. (Mark 13:9-13 ESV)

Our Heavenly Father is in control. Don't worry about the details, trust God, use every opportunity to witness for Him.
We can just as easily be distracted e.g. Financial, relationship, health crises; business of life; but no matter what, look for what God is doing around you. He has placed us there for a reason. Use every opportunity to witness for Him.

3. Jesus is concerned that we will be discouraged by His delay.

"But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. "From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. (Mark 13:24-31 ESV)

• Jesus' coming is near but there will be a delay. He reassures us that He will definitely come again. So while we wait, don't fall asleep. Only the Father knows the second coming.

"But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning— lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake." (Mark 13:32-37 ESV)

• Each of us has an assigned task. Don't fall asleep on the job!
• Be prepared, be ready! Don't waste your time predicting when Jesus will return. Jesus Himself was content leaving that in His Father's hand. We need to live our lives in anticipation of His coming.

Are we living our lives completely in the knowledge of His certain coming?

What do you want me to do for you?

Mark 10

October 14, 2012

Pastor Miles

1. "I want permission to do what I want"
- in the area of relationships and divorce
- do we want to truly know God's plan, or just His approval?
- if our heart isn't right, then what we desire is often not right
- do we want God's best for our lives or are we just seeking His approval?

And he left there and went to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan, and crowds gathered to him again. And again, as was his custom, he taught them. And Pharisees came up and in order to test him asked, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" He answered them, "What did Moses command you?" They said, "Moses allowed a man to write a certificate of divorce and to send her away." And Jesus said to them, "Because of your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of creation, 'God made them male and female.' 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife,
and the two shall become one flesh.' So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate." (Mark 10:1-9 ESV)

2. "I want eternal life and I want to hold on to my old life"
- are we reluctant to give up our possessions, or whatever is controlling our lives?
- Jesus did not mention the first commandment about having other gods. Do we have other "gods" that we worship over God?
- if we can't give it away it owns us, we don't own them (possessions)

And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.'" And he said to him, "Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth." And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, "You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me." Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. (Mark 10:17-22 ESV)

3. "I want a special guarantee for serving you"
- are we expecting something in return for following Jesus? Eg faithful spouse, children who obey God, not suffering a health crisis or painful death
- God doesn't give us such guarantees except that He will always be with us

And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came up to him and said to him, "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you." And he said to them, "What do you want me to do for you?" And they said to him, "Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." Jesus said to them, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, or to be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?" And they said to him, "We are able." And Jesus said to them, "The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized, but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared." (Mark 10:35-40 ESV)

4. "I want to see."
- Bartimaeus knows that he deserves nothing from Jesus. He just calls out in frank honesty. He is blind and asks for nothing but mercy. After receiving his sight, he makes the decision to follow Jesus.
- Jesus gives sight to a blind man, but there are those who can see who remain blind
- Jesus, help me to see my relationships, possessions, and service the way You see them

And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" And Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart. Get up; he is calling you." And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" And the blind man said to him, "Rabbi, let me recover my sight." And Jesus said to him, "Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way. (Mark 10:46-52 ESV)

Only Halfway There

Mark 8:27-38

Oct 7, 2012

Pastor Miles

1. Jesus is the Christ, the promised Jewish Messiah.

And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that I am?" And they told him, "John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets." And he asked them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered him, "You are the Christ." And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him. (Mark 8:27-30 ESV)

2. Jesus came to suffer and be killed and rise again.

And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. (Mark 8:31 ESV)

3. To follow Jesus we need a new worldview.

And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, "Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man." (Mark 8:32, 33 ESV)

• Worldview is not just a matter of perspective, It's also about where we are living.
• It's about the reign and rule of God in my personal life.

4. To follow Jesus we need to die to self.

And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." (Mark 8:34-38 ESV)

• Once we have submitted to the reign of God, are we allowing His rule to transform us in all aspects of our life? Eg, friendships, family, financial, etc.
• God's reign and rule is about the breadth of surrender and the depth of transformation: for this to occur we need to take up His cross and follow Him. 
• There are essentially 2 kingdoms (earthly and heavenly) but only one throne (of God). 
• By taking up the cross we are dying to self. The more we die to self, the more we will save our lives. If we are ashamed of Jesus, He will in turn be ashamed of us.

Questions for reflection.
1. Are you still trying to save your old life?
What have we not surrendered to Him?
2. What do you still cling to the world's values?
3. Where or when are you ashamed of Jesus?
4. Where is The Lord saying to you: "this part needs to die?"

Courageous: session 4

Spofford Men's Retreat

Life is a relay, passing the baton from one to another.
If you want to run fast you run alone, but if you want to run far you run together.
1 Peter 2:10 - love the brotherhood
Courageous men choose to serve together in fellowship.

Fellowship is abiding in God's community - living out life in God's community (including the good, bad and ugly).
And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. (1 John 4:21 NIV)
 - he who loves God must love his brother also.

Although I hope to come to you soon, I am writing you these instructions so that, if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God's household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth. (1 Timothy 3:14, 15 NIV)
- Timothy provides instruction on how to live in the House of God

4 levels of fellowship:
1. Membership: choosing to belong.
Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, (Ephesians 2:19 NIV)
- Christian life is not just a matter of believing. It is a matter of belonging.
- A Christian without a church is an orphan. God meant for us to be part of a family.
2. Friendship: learning to share.
All the believers were together and had everything in common. (Acts 2:44 NIV)

An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
and against all sound judgment starts quarrels. (Proverbs 18:1 NIV)

- despite our modern connectivity in this society, we are becoming increasingly isolated
- sharing must take place for friendships to develop
3. Partnership: doing my part.
For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building. (1 Corinthians 3:9 NIV)
- we are partners working together for God
From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:16 NIV)
- every part does its share, to grow into the fullness of Christ
4. Kinship: loving believers like my family.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. (Romans 12:10 NIV)
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. (1 John 3:16 NIV)
- we also ought to lay down our lives for our kin (friends)
The Greek word in the bible for fellowship is koinona: meaning "common" as in a common commitment to one a other.

Benefits of brotherly fellowship
1. Men experience honesty
2. Men experience mutuality
3. Men experience sympathy
4. Men experience mercy
5. Fellowship requires time and commitment

Courageous: session 3

Spofford Men's Retreat

Courageous men stay on mission with God
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19, 20 ESV)
- there is no mission without a relationship

He has told you, O man, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8 ESV)

1. There is no mission without a relationship. Micah 6:8
2. There is one mission, many commissions!
A. There is one mission - the Great Commission. Matt 28
B. Each has part of the mission. Call it a Commission.
- Ep 4:11-16 every person has a part to play
3. How will you know what your commission is?
Rom 12, 1 Cor 12, Eph 4

Spiritual gifts - how to discover your gift:
a) Look up all the spiritual gifts
b) Look for the ministries in which you feel the most fulfilled
c) Look for ministries in which you seem most effective
d) Look for ministries in which others affirm your abilities
e) Look for a place to feel involved. As you try different things you will gravitate to your spiritual best fit spot - don't give up, don't settle.

4. So when will you courageously serve?
a) I must share with those in my Jerusalem (neighborhood, community)
- John 4: woman at the well; Mark 5: the Demoniac
b) I must share with those near me but "other".
To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. (1 Corinthians 9:22 ESV)
Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. (James 1:27 ESV)
Jesus said, "Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. (Mark 10:29, 30 ESV)
c) I must share with those in my world.
And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. (Mark 16:15 ESV)
i. Prayer
ii. Giving - giving our resources is the closest thing to being like God. The part that we give away is the part that lasts forever.
The most dangerous prayer you can pray is "God use me."

- Stay in fellowship with God!
- Accept my ministry? Following Jesus' example of ministry.
- Be givers - of your talent and monies.


Lionel

Courageous: session 2

Spoof ford Men's Retreat

Courage comes from having a relationship with God:
And the scripture was fulfilled that says, "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness," and he was called God's friend. (James 2:23 NIV)
- Example of Abraham who was courageous in leaving his land.

The Basics
1. He is God ... He created us.
2. He loves us and knows what is best for us.

How can we have a loving relationship with God the right way?
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' (Mark 12:30 NIV)
1. God wants us to love Him with our mind
A. Love Him thoughtfully.
Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. (Hebrews 11:19 NIV)
B. Giving God your attention.
2. God wants us to love Him with our soul
A. One of the best is music.
B. You can use your bodies.
C. Just to say "thank you"
- sometimes we just don't realize how much God loves us (to the point of suffering and death)
- the heart of worship is surrender!
3. Love Him with all our strength.
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, (Colossians 3:23 ESV)
- if you want to make your work an act of worship, you don't have to change where you work, you just have to change who you work for!
- in life it is not what you are that matters, but who you are
- it is not what we do, but who we do it for
- courageous living is about living out your life where you are (for God)

Pictures of the Kingdom

Mark 4:1-32

Pastor Miles

9/23/2012

1. Why does Jesus speak in parables?

With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. He did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything. (Mark 4:33, 34 ESV)

The people in Jesus' time were expecting a physical and earthly revolution that would usher in the Kingdom of God.
There are similar parallels with our current society, e g Christianity in America, Islam in Muslim countries, etc.
But Jesus had different intentions.

And when he was alone, those around him with the twelve asked him about the parables. And he said to them, "To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables, so that
"they may indeed see but not perceive,
and may indeed hear but not understand,
lest they should turn and be forgiven." (Mark 4:10-12 ESV)

Jesus used prophetic irony; He used parables as prophesy was being fulfilled.

2. Kingdom principles from Jesus' parables:
A. The 4 soils

#1 People will respond differently to the message of the kingdom.

"Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. And other seeds fell into good soil and produced grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." (Mark 4:3-8 ESV)

#2 The message of the kingdom is opposed by Satan.

The sower sows the word. And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown: when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. (Mark 4:14, 15 ESV)

#3 Fruitfulness is what matters.

And these are the ones sown on rocky ground: the ones who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy. And they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away.
And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." (Mark 4:16-20 ESV)

Materialism is a barrier to fruitfulness

Application:
a) what kind of soil are we?
b) what kind of soil do we want to be?

#4 Some seed you sow is going to have amazing effect.

But those that were sown on the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold." (Mark 4:20 ESV)

e g Edward Kimble sowed the seed in the young life of D L Moody who went on to preach to millions!

B. The Lamp
#5 Don't hide what you have been given. Share it with others.

And he said to them, "Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear." And he said to them, "Pay attention to what you hear: with the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and still more will be added to you. For to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." (Mark 4:21-25 ESV)

- We have been given the secrets of the Kingdom, and our duty is to share and proclaim it.
- If not, even what we have will be taken away
- Are we sharing at every opportunity?

C. The uneducated farmer
#6 Sow the seed and leave the results to God.

And he said, "The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come." (Mark 4:26-29 ESV)

We just have to do our part, and faithfully wait for God's transformative work to be done

D. The mustard seed
#7 The kingdom will start small but it will grow. Believe it.

And he said, "With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade." (Mark 4:30-32 ESV)

Jesus is telling his disciples and us that this is the hope that will happen

Are we hiding our light or letting it shine?

Are we sowing the seeds of the gospel to others?

Look for opportunities!

Word of God Speak

Pastor Miles

9/9/2012

1. Read and reflect on scripture.
A. Observation - what does it say?
B. interpretation - what does it mean?
C. Application - what does it mean to me? (so what?)

2. An illustration - Acts 2:5-37

3. An example - Mark 1:16-20
Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men." And immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets. And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him. (Mark 1:16-20 ESV)

Application/ reflection:

What have I left to follow Jesus?

What do I need to leave to follow Him?

Amazing Harvest

Acts 2:14-47

Pastor Miles

8/26/12

1. Sometimes we get to see a huge harvest.
Acts 2:41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

Acts 2:47 ... And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

2. The harvest continues through the witness of a loving committed community of believers.
Characteristics of this community:
A. Devotion to the Lord
42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.

B. love for one another
44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

John 17:20 "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.

C. Open hearts and homes
46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Can we take off our masks and live open lives like them?

Are we able to practice open concern and share our lives like them?

Can we be a spiritual oasis to those in need?

Seeing the Harvest

Seeing the Harvest

Matthew 9:35-10:1

Pastor Miles

8/19/2012

1. Jesus has compassion for the people were harassed and helpless, like a sheep without a shepherd. (9:36)
- we are like lost sheep without the Good Shepherd in our lives.
- people are more likely to turn to God in terms of stress or crisis in their lives.
- more people are needed to be ambassadors for Christ as the harvest is ripe.
- we need to invest in the lives of people that God has put into our lives. Share our story and invite them to church.

2. In order to feel as Jesus felt, we need to see people as He sees them.

3. Because Jesus saw people the way He did, He saw the Harvest as plentiful.

A Matter of Perspective

A Matter of Perspective

John 4:28-38

John Vampatella

8/5/12

1. We often need a different perspective.

John 4:35 Don't you have a saying, 'It's still four months until harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.

Matthew 23:23 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. 24 You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.

In what way do we need a new perspective?

2. Challenge conventional wisdom and see things from God's perspective.

3. God's perspective on the harvest.

Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.

Are we ready to share the gospel? The harvest is plentiful!

"You In?"

"You In?"

1 Corinthians 12:1-11

Steven Maasbach

7/29/12

1. You need to know that every believer has at least one spiritual gift.

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:8-11 ESV)

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. (Romans 12:6-8 ESV)

2. You need to discern your own spiritual gift.
- reading the Bible
- through prayer
- asking other believers; affirmation through others

3. You need to learn to use it.
- not one gift is superior to another
- use it for others benefit, not your own

Disciplines for Running the Race

Hebrews 12:1-3

Brad Cairns

7/22/12

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

1. The athlete's preparation: throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.

2. The athlete's endurance: run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

3. The athlete's attention: fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith. Who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

4. The athlete's determination: how not to grow weary and to loose heart.
- consider Jesus who endured such opposition from sinners

I Want More

I Want More

July 15, 2012

Pastor Miles

1. I want you to know that God is real.
2 Chronicles 20:14-17

2. I want you to be growing in a love relationship with Jesus.
Ephesians 3:17-19
Romans 8:31-39

3. I want us to be growing in your love for one another.
John 13:34-35
Ephesians 4:2-3
1 John 4:7-21

A Word to Fathers

Revelation 2:8-3:13

Pastor Miles

6/17/2012

1. Be faithful.

Rev 2:10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown.

Rev2:13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.

2. Don't fall for false teaching.

Rev 2:14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. 15 Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans.

Rev 2:20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.
24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets, 'I will not impose any other burden on you,

See "the Resolution" from Courageous The Movie.

3. Be an overcomer.

Rev:25 except to hold on to what you have until I come.'
26 To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations

Rev 3:5 The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.

Rev 3:11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

"hold on. I'm coming!"

Rev 3:11 I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 The one who is victorious I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will they leave it. I will write on them the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on them my new name. 13 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.

Challenge: talk to your family about Communion.

Stand Firm

Ephesians 6:10-20

Pastor Jeff

1. Be strong in the Lord, v10-13.
- we are engaged in a spiritual battle
- we battle evil spiritual powers, not human enemies
- be strong in the mighty power of God
- we need God's armor to stand
- God's armor strengthens us to stand firm

2. Stand firm by putting on God's armor, v14-17.
A) fastening on the BELT OF TRUTH
Isaiah 11:5

Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist.

Ephesians 4:15,21,24;5:6,9

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:15, 21, 24 ESV)

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), (Ephesians 5:6, 9 ESV)

B) putting on BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

Isaiah 59
14 So justice is driven back, and righteousness stands at a distance; truth has stumbled in the streets, honesty cannot enter
15 Truth is nowhere to be found, and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey. The Lord looked and was displeased that there was no justice.
16 He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him.

and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:24 ESV)

(for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), (Ephesians 5:9 ESV)

Pursue right living the way God intended in light of the reality of what Christ has done for us.

C) fitting your feet with the READINESS OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE

Isaiah 52
7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!"
8 Listen! Your watchmen lift up their voices; together they shout for joy. When the Lord returns to Zion, they will see it with their own eyes.
9 Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the Lord has comforted his people, he has redeemed Jerusalem.
10 The Lord will lay bare his holy arm in the sight of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth will see the salvation of our God.

For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. (Ephesians 2:14-18 ESV)

Christ is our peacemaker, and He has restored our broken relationship with our heavenly Father. This is the Gospel of Peace, which our way sure and firm.

D) taking up the SHIELD OF FAITH

Genesis 15:1
After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: "Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward. "

Proverbs 30:5
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, (Ephesians 2:8 ESV)

in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, (Ephesians 3:12, 17 ESV)

one Lord, one faith, one baptism, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, (Ephesians 4:5, 13 ESV)

E) taking the HELMET OF SALVATION

Isaiah 59:17
He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak.

even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, (Ephesians 2:5, 6 ESV)

F) Taking the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT- Word of God

Isaiah 11:4
but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.

3. Watch and pray, v18-20.
- all believers need constant prayer and constant watchfulness
- prayer is not identified with any weapon
-- it is foundational to the use of all weapons
-- life of dependence on God in prayer is essential
- requires staying alert

Christian Family and Work

Ephesians 6:1-9

Pastor Miles

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), "that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him. (Ephesians 6:1-9 ESV)

1. Children obey your parents in the Lord.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), "that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." (Ephesians 6:1-3 ESV)

The only exception:

But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard." (Acts 4:19, 20 ESV)

However, do not manipulate God's commandment as the Pharisees did:

And he said to them, "You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! For Moses said, 'Honor your father and your mother'; and, 'Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.' But you say, 'If a man tells his father or his mother, "Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban"' (that is, given to God)— then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do." (Mark 7:9-13 ESV)

2. Fathers, bring up your children in the Lord.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians 6:4 ESV)

Do not be harsh, cruel, overindulgent or show favoritism to your children.
Nourish and nuture your children through training and instruction in the Lord.

3. As one under authority, your real master is the Lord.

Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8 ESV)

4. As one with authority, your master is the Lord.

Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him. (Ephesians 6:9 ESV)

We need to surrender all aspects of our lives to God and submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

How to Live a Life of Love

Ephesians 5:8-20

Pastor Miles

1. A life of love requires Living in the light.

for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,
"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you." (Ephesians 5:8-14 ESV)

Start by seeking what pleases the Lord.
Living in the light makes things visible. Let the light exposé the good, bad and ugly in your life.
Our greatest problem is living in the dark. We don't have to be afraid of the light as believers. Let Christ shine His light on us. This keeps us in fellowship with God and other believers.

This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:5-9 ESV)

2. A life of love requires Wisdom.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:15-17 ESV)

Be watchful how you live your life. Do not be distracted or side tracked. Be discerning about what the Lord's will is for you.

3. A life of love requires The Holy Spirit.
We need the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom on how to live. However, just because he is resident doesn't mean he is president in our lives.

And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (Ephesians 5:18-20 ESV)

Let the Spirit control our lives. We are filled with the Spirit when we surrender control of our lives to Jesus.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:22-24 ESV)

Live a Life of Love

Live a Life of Love

Pastor Miles

Ephesians 5:1-7

1. God calls you to live like Jesus.

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1, 2 ESV)

Jesus loved us.
He gave up His life for us.

2. To live a life of love, you must give up your selfishness.

But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. (Ephesians 5:3, 4 ESV)

3 types of selfishness:
A) Sexual selfishness includes all sex outside of marriage or sexual impurity (eg pornography).
The root of sexual immorality is selfishness.
B) Material selfishness includes greed: i.e. wanting things more than God. Living for things other than God. Are we loving the wrong things?
C) Social selfishness: obscenity, foolish talk.

The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. (Luke 6:45 ESV)

For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; (Ephesians 5:5-7 ESV)

No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. (1 John 3:6 ESV)

And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. Whoever says "I know him" but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked. (1 John 2:3-6 ESV)

3. To live a life of love, you must give a sacrifice to God.

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (Ephesians 5:1, 2 ESV)

Jesus was moved by compassion:

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36 ESV)

What sacrifice will you give to meet the needs of others?

Life Transformation

Pastor Miles

April 15, 2012

Ephesians 4:17-32

1. Live no longer as those without Christ.

Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. (Ephesians 4:17-19 ESV)

2. Live as those who know Christ.

But that is not the way you learned Christ!— assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, (Ephesians 4:20, 21 ESV)

3. Life transformation involves putting off the old and putting on the new self.
- It involves renewing your mind. (I am also reminded of Romans 12:2 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.")

to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24 ESV)

Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:25-32 ESV)

Put Off: falsehood (v 25)
Put On: truth-telling
Reason: we are members of the same body
Put Off: acting in anger (v 26-27)
Put On: resolving anger
Reason: don't give the devil a foothold
Put Off: stealing (v 28)
Put On: honest work
Reason: have something to share with those in need
Put Off: unwholesome talk (v 29)
Put On: helpful talk
Reason: be a blessing to others
Put Off: grieving the Spirit (v 30)
Put On: follow the spirit
Reason: sealed with the spirit for the day of redemption
Put Off: bitterness (v 31-32)
Put On: kindness
Reason: God forgave you


Daily Prayer
Lord, Thank You that I am not who I once was without Christ. Help me to continue to put off my old self and put on my new self in Christ. I want to honor You in all these areas of my life. Amen.

Resurrection Life Today

Resurrection Life Today

Pastor Miles

but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son!" Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother!" And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. (John 19:25-27 ESV)

John 19:25 "here is your mother"
Jesus put the needs of others above his own even during his agony on the cross.
1. To experience Resurrection Life today, you must put the needs of others above your own.

Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." And they cast lots to divide his garments. (Luke 23:32-34 ESV)

Luke 23:34 "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Jesus wanted those who hurt him to experience forgiveness and God's love.
2. To experience Resurrection Life today, you must forgive others.
Let go of the bitterness and grudges in your life, and you will experience the peace of God, and the ability to forgive others.

And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Mark 15:33, 34 ESV)

Mark 15:34 "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Jesus feels abandoned and the despair of being separated from the Father.
3. To experience Resurrection Life today, you must turn to God for answers.
Jesus shows us that by questioning God in prayer that is an act of faith. When we choose to turn to God we die a little to self. We can turn to the Word for encouragement.

My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? (Psalm 22:1 ESV)

It was now about the sixth hour, and there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour, while the sun's light failed. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last. (Luke 23:44-46 ESV)

Luke 23:46 "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!"
When everything else is gone what is at the center is Christ's commitment to God.
4. To experience Resurrection Life today, you must commit yourself to God.
When everything else is stripped away, what is at the core of your life? Have you made a commitment to Christ?

Keys for Loving Your Family

Keys for Loving Your Family from Tony Dungy's book "Uncommon" 1. Be a leader around your home, but lead for the benefit of your wife and children, not for your own benefit. 2. Give your wife breaks from her daily responsibilities. 3. Make memories. 4. Keep your vows sacred. Sometimes better comes after worse. 5. If you are not married, be careful in selecting a spouse. It is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. 6. Be present with your family—emotionally and physically. 7. Be careful what you say and do. 8. Write notes to your children. 9. Honor those in authority over you. 10. Be careful with the authority and influence you have been entrusted with. 11. If you can't come to grips with your parents and your past, find a professional to walk with you through it.

Triumph or Terror

Matthew 21:1-13

Pastor Miles

1. Jesus turns a triumph into a spectacle.

And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you make it a den of robbers." (Matthew 21:12, 13 ESV)

2. Nothing in your life can take the place of God.
Just as your body needs air to survive, does the soul need prayer.
We need to set aside time and place for God and prayer.

What is the role of Trinity Church?
We need encouragement and teaching on prayer.
We need structure: group and personal time for prayer.

See Jesus example: John 17

Learn to Live as Part of the Body

Ephesians 4:1-16

Pastor Miles

1. Live to protect the unity of the body.

I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. (Ephesians 4:1-6 ESV)

4 qualities to preserve the unity of the Body through peace:

1. Humility
2. Gentleness
3. Patience - the reluctance to avenge wrongs
4. Bearing with one another through love

4 things that unite us:

1. One body - We are in an organic unity
2. One hope
3. One faith
4. One baptism

In Essentials unity, nonessentials charity, in all things Christ is the center.

2. You were given a special grace to use as part of the body.

But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore it says,
"When he ascended on high he led a host of captives,
and he gave gifts to men."
(In saying, "He ascended," what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower regions, the earth? He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.) And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, (Ephesians 4:7-12 ESV)

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. (1 Peter 4:10, 11 ESV)

3. Grow up to maturity as part of the Body.

to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:12-16 ESV)

The goal of being built up is maturity (v. 13): to measure up to the stature of Christ.

For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:29 ESV)

We need to learn to speak the TRUTH in LOVE. (v. 15)
We need to grow up in maturity, but also to help others to grow in maturity.
We need to grow, but also to serve.

Daily Prayer

Father, Thank you for making me part of the Body of Christ.

May my attitudes and actions protect the Unity of the Body through the bond of peace.

Thank you for the special grace You have given me as part of the Body.

Help me to find a place to grow and a place to serve in Your Body as we grow up in maturity together.

Amen.

The Resolution from the "Courageous" Movie

THE RESOLUTION 

I DO solemnly resolve before God to take full responsibility for myself, my wife, and my children. 

I WILL love them, protect them, serve them, and teach them the Word of God as the spiritual leader of my home. 

I WILL be faithful to my wife, to love and honor her, and be willing to lay down my life for her as Jesus Christ did for me. 

I WILL bless my children and teach them to love God with all of their hearts, all of their minds, and all of their strength. 

I WILL train them to honor authority and live responsibly. 

I WILL confront evil, pursue justice, and love mercy. 

I WILL pray for others and treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion. 

I WILL work diligently to provide for the needs of my family. 

I WILL forgive those who have wronged me and reconcile with those I have wronged. 

I WILL learn from my mistakes, repent of my sins, and walk with integrity as a man answerable to God. 

I WILL seek to honor God, be faithful to His church, obey His Word, and do His will. 

I WILL courageously work with the strength God provides to fulfill this resolution for the rest of my life and for His glory.   

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ---Joshua 24:15  

My Prayer for You

Ephesians 3:14-21

Pastor Miles

1. I pray that Christ may truly live in you.

For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, (Ephesians 3:14-17 ESV)

Imagine a life that is filled in Christ in every way, and the impact it would have on others.

2. I pray that you may really know the love of Christ.

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. (Ephesians 3:17-19 ESV)

• Paul uses gardening analogy to describe how our love in Christ can grow.
• The love of Christ is too great to be described by physical dimensions.
• To know Christ is to experience Him.
• His love gives us the capacity to love Him and others.
• We love because He first loved us.

3. I pray that God may be glorified in you.

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20, 21 ESV)

God is able to do more in us but maybe we are asking selfishly, or asking for the wrong things. We should instead be asking that God may be glorified in us, the church/ body of Christ.

Daily Prayer

I kneel before you, Father, and ask that Christ may truly live in me today.

Help me to grasp how great your love is and to really know your love for me.

To you be all the glory.

Amen.

"Mystery Revealed"

Ephesians 3:1-13

Pastor Miles

1. The Gospel reveals a mystery. V 1-6

For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles— assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you, how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly. When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel. (Ephesians 3:1-6 ESV)

The Gospel of Jesus is for everyone.

2. You became a servant of the Gospel through God's grace. V7-9

Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things, (Ephesians 3:7-9 ESV)

We are made worthy through Christ. From a nobody to a somebody. God can use us for His purposes if we let Him.

3. This Mystery should be made known through us (the church, the Body of Christ). V10-13

so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. So I ask you not to lose heart over what I am suffering for you, which is your glory. (Ephesians 3:10-13 ESV)

Our diversity shows His manifold wisdom, like the multidimensional facets of a sparkling diamond.

Daily Prayer

Thank you, Father, that through the Gospel, we are all members together of one body and heirs of your promises.

All of us can come to you with freedom and confidence through Christ.

May you manifest this mystery through us, your church.

Amen.