Bridge Church Virginia Beach

June 8, 2025Series: Unseen but PresentSermon: The Power of the Holy Spirit (Part 1)Scripture: Acts 2:1-4 (NIV) "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."INTRODUCTION: To effectively follow Jesus we must receive the power of the Holy Spirit. Point 1: The Promise FulfilledScripture Reference: “On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”” -‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬ The coming of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost as the fulfillment of Jesus' promise.Point 2: The Manifestation of PowerScripture Reference: “Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.” -Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬Point 3: Empowered for WitnessScripture Reference: “All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. -Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬Conclusion: Remember, this promise is for you! - Acts 2:39 ★ Support this podcast ★

June 1, 2025Series: Unseen but PresentSermon: The Presence of the Holy SpiritScripture: Genesis 1:2 (NIV) "Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters."The Spirit as the Nurturer of CreationScripture Reference: "Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters." -Genesis 1:2 The Holy Spirit’s Constant CompanionScripture Reference: “the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” -‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬The Transformative Power of His PresenceScripture Reference: "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." -2 Corinthians 3:17Conclusion: Not only is the Holy Spirit the nurture of creation but the nurture of NEW CREATION! You must be born again! ★ Support this podcast ★

May 25, 2025Series: Unseen but PresentSermon: The Promise of the Holy SpiritScripture: John 14:15-17 (NIV) "If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you."“On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.”‭‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭4‬ ‭NIV‬‬Introduction: God the Father never ever breaks a promise! Point 1: The Advocate We Need“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—” -John‬ ‭14‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as our "advocate" or "helper."Point 2: God Within Us“the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” -John‬ ‭14‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ Point 3: A Promise for All BelieversActs 2:38-39 "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call."Conclusion: Today, receive the promised Holy Spirit. ★ Support this podcast ★

May 18, 2025Sermon: MOVING FROM VICTIM TO VICTOR! Scripture: 2 Samuel 8:1; 15In the course of time, David defeated the Philistines and subdued them, and he took Metheg Ammah from the control of the Philistines. (Vs. 1)David reigned over all Israel, doing what was just and right for all his people. (Vs. 15)INTRODUCTION: You don't win the victory in a day but daily you win the victory. Steps to Victory:Refuse to avoid the unavoidable.“The Philistines assembled to fight Israel, with three thousand chariots, six thousand charioteers, and soldiers as numerous as the sand on the seashore. ‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬“In those days the Philistines gathered their forces to fight against Israel. ‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬Remember you're fighting from victory.“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭57‬ ‭NIV‬‬“and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.”‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬-‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬Recognize the favor (grace) of God. “Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭60‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬CONCLUSION: We are more than conquerors through Christ! (Romans 8:37) ★ Support this podcast ★

May 11, 2025Series: Comeback StoriesSermon: Comeback Stories Mother's Day EditionScripture: John 4:10-15“Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.””‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬Introduction: Jesus came into a world that dehumanized woman and restored them by granting them acceptance, dignity, and purpose. Encountering JesusOvercoming StigmaEmpowerment and PurposeHope and TransformationConclusion: Jesus testimony is the pathway for your own comeback story! ★ Support this podcast ★

May 4, 2025Series: Comeback StoriesSermon: The Murderer Who Became a MissionaryScripture: Acts 8:1-3“And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.”‭INTRODUCTION: Never underestimate the GRACE of God to transform a life! Saul’s Background: Pharisee and MurdererYoung Pharisee“circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.”‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬2. Murderer“dragged him (Stephen) out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul.”‭‭Acts‬ ‭7‬:‭58‬ ‭NIV‬‬"Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples."Acts 9:1Saul’s Conversion: “He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.””‭‭Acts‬ ‭9‬:‭4‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,”‭‭Acts‬ ‭9‬:‭8‬, ‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬"Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit..."Acts 13:9Paul the Missionary: Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'Acts 22:21Message Application:No one is beyond redemption.Pray for those who need a comeback.Come to Jesus for your own comeback. CONCLUSION: Through the grace of God the man who was the greatest persecutor of the church became it's greatest defender! WHAT A COMEBACK STORY! ★ Support this podcast ★

April 27, 2025Series: Comeback StoriesSermon: Jesus Still Moves StonesScripture: Matthew 28:1-2“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.”INTRODUCTION:Stones are meant to be moved and Jesus has a plan to move them. Jesus Rolls Back Stones...“After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.”Matthew 28:1-2Jesus Stop Stones...“When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.””‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus Uses People Move Stones...““Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.””‭‭John‬ ‭11‬:‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬So they took away the stone.John 11:42Practical Application:Indentify your stone.Surrender your stone. Be a Stone-Mover for others.CONCLUSION: You know you are free when you can sit on the stone that once held you captive! ★ Support this podcast ★

April 20, 2025EasterSeries: Comeback StoriesSermon: Hope Risen: Your Comeback Begins Today...Scripture: 1 Peter 1:3 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy, he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."INTRODUCTON: Your Comeback Begins Today because of Jesus' ultimate comeback! Today, hear Jesus' voice..."God again set a certain day, calling it 'Today.' This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.'"Hebrews 4:7Today, let Jesus fill the void..."Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?"John 11:25-26Today, receive Jesus' victory..."Jesus said to him, 'Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.'"-Luke 19:9CONCLUSION: Your comeback begins with your confession of Jesus as savior! (Romans 10:9-10) ★ Support this podcast ★

April 18, 2025 Good FridaySeries: Road to ResurrectionSermon: The Cross and the Price of RedemptionScripture: Matthew 27:27-37“Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him. They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said. They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again. After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him. As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene, named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. They came to a place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, he refused to drink it. When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. Above his head they placed the written charge against him: this is jesus, the king of the jews.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭27‬:‭27‬-‭37‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: You will never fully understand the depth of salvation until you understand the depth of Jesus' crucifixion. At the Cross:Jesus fulfilled prophecy.“Dogs surround me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce my hands and my feet. All my bones are on display; people stare and gloat over me. They divide my clothes among them and cast lots for my garment.”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭22‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭53‬:‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus demonstrated God's love.“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus paid the price of redemption.“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.”‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬“And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.”‭‭Revelation‬ ‭5‬:‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬CONCLUSION: “When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2‬:‭13‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬ ★ Support this podcast ★

April 13, 2025Series: Road to ResurrectionSermon: A New and Living Way! Scripture: Matthew 26:26-30; Hebrews 10:19-22“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭26‬:‭26‬-‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭19‬-‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: Jesus gives us confidence to stand in the presence of God. The Bread...“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Matthew 26:26 NIVThe Cup...Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.Matthew 26:27-28Three Benefits of the NEW AND LIVING WAY:“Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭19‬-‭22‬ ‭NIV‬‬We are in union with God.We have assurance of salvation.We have a clean new heart.CONCLUSION: We are NEW because of the NEW AND LIVING WAY! (2 Cor. 5:17) ★ Support this podcast ★

April 6, 2025Series: Road to ResurrectionSermon: The Cleasing of the TempleScripture: Psalm 24:9-10; Matthew 21:12-17“Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory? The Lord Almighty— he is the King of glory.”‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭9‬-‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. “It is written,” he said to them, “ ‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’” The blind and the lame came to him at the temple, and he healed them. But when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “ ‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’ ?” And he left them and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭21‬:‭12‬-‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬- Focus: This sermon will examine Jesus cleansing the temple, driving out the money changers and those selling animals for sacrifice. It serves as a powerful demonstration of His authority and His passion for true worship.INTRODUCTION: House cleaning is not easy but it is neccessary. Three Keys to Passionate Worship...Open Heart to God's Spirit“Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in." Psalm 24:92. Open Heart to Prayer"My house will be called a house of prayer..." Matthew 21:133. Open Heart to the Next GenerationBut when the chief priests and the teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did and the children shouting in the temple courts, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they were indignant. “Do you hear what these children are saying?” they asked him. “Yes,” replied Jesus, “have you never read, “ ‘From the lips of children and infants you, Lord, have called forth your praise’ ?” Matthew 21:15-16Conclusion: Today, open your heart and let the KING OF GLORY come in! ★ Support this podcast ★

March 30, 2025Series Title: The Road to ResurrectionSermon: "The Entry of the King"Scripture: John 12:12-15“The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.””‭‭John‬ ‭12‬:‭12‬-‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: "What does it mean to say, 'Jesus is King'?" The significance of Jesus riding a donkey (fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9).The significance of the response of the crowd and their expectations of a political savior versus a spiritual one.The three significant effects of Jesus' kingship and what it means for us today as we look toward Easter Sunday! 1. Jesus as King signifies His ultimate authority over all aspects of life. Christians are called to submit to His lordship, acknowledging His sovereignty in decisions and actions. Matthew 28:18 - "And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'"2. Being part of the Kingdom of God gives Christians a new identity as children of the King. This understanding shapes their self-perception and influences how they relate to others.1 Peter 2:9 - "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."3. Jesus’ kingship calls Christians to serve others, reflecting His servant leadership. This means prioritizing humility and service over power and dominance. - Mark 10:43-45 - "But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."CONCLUSION: These three effects encourage Christians to live in a way that honors Jesus' kingship, influencing their actions, relationships, and overall lifestyle. ★ Support this podcast ★

March 23, 2025Sermon: The Tale of Two TreesScripture: Proverbs 3:18 & Genesis 2:8-9, 15-17Proverbs 3:18 AMP“She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy [blessed, considered fortunate, to be admired] is everyone who holds her tightly.”Genesis 2:8-9; 15-17 NIV8 Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed. 9 The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care dof it.16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”INTRODUCTION: The only real freedom you have in life is the freedom to choose!Two TreesTree of Knowledge of Good and Evil: (Religion) 2. Tree of Life: (Relationship) The Tree of life is a Promise.The Tree of Life is a Person."This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. “and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”‭‭-Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NIVThe Result of Adam’s Choice: (Genesis 3:7)“Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.”‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬1. Shame2. Isolation3. VictimizationGod’s Heart: The Tree of Life (Genesis 3:21)“The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.”‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬1. Relationship2. RestorationCONCLUSION: Today, choose life so that you may live! ★ Support this podcast ★

March 16, 2025Series: Money Matters: Unlocking the Blessings of TithingSermon: The Blessings of Honoring God with the TitheScripture: Proverbs 3:9-10“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”INTRODUCTION: There are multiple blessings that are available to those who choose to honor God with the tithe.The blessing of provision and abundance“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬The blessing of protection and safety‭‭“I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.”‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬God's Favor“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”Proverbs 3:9-10 NIVCONCLUSION: Test God by taking the 90 Day Tithe Challenge! ★ Support this podcast ★

March 9, 2025Series: Money MattersSermon: Test Me!Scripture: Malachi 3:10 & Matthew 23:23“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store. ““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.”INTRODUCTION: Throughout scripture, God is constantly inviting us into the divine mystery of following him. God's Invitation:1. Bring the Whole Tithe...2. Where? The Storehouse...3. Put God to the Test..."Test me in this..."Our Response: TAKE THE TESTCONCLUSION: Obedience opens the floodgates of heaven over our lives. ★ Support this podcast ★

March 2, 2025Series: Money Matters: Unlocking the Blessings of TithingSermon: Cultivating Courageous Faith in a Practical Way...Scripture: Malachi 3:6-10 & Matthew 6:24““I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”‭‭Malachi‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬-‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬““No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭24‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: Faith without works is dead! (-James)Money Prioritized: David Ramsey: Financial Peace University TitheExpensesEmergency Fund ($1000.00)Retire DebtInvestThe Whole Tithe:Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse. -Malachi 3:10a Tithe: a tenthTithe: returning the FIRST 10% of our income to God’s house.Tithe: belongs to the Lord. (Lev. 27:30)Tithe: practiced before the law of Moses. (Genesis 14:20)Tithe: affirmed by Jesus. ( Matthew 23:23)Tithe: giving God the FIRST and BEST so He can bless the 90%.Tithe: passing the test.CONCLUSION: Everytime we receive a paycheck, we get to choose our Master: God or money! ★ Support this podcast ★

February 23, 2025WHAT CHAIR ARE YOU SITTING IN? Philippians 4:4-94 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.C- OMMANDPhil 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again, I will say rejoice!” Vs. 6 – “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; Vs. 8- 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Matthew 6:25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” H- ONORJohn 14:15- “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Phil 4:Vs. 5- “Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.” (yield; surrender) James 1:22- “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” A-CTIONPut all these things into action: I- NTENTIONALDefinition: DELIBERATE; ON PURPOSE ACTIONS TO FULFULL SOMETHING. 2 Corinthians 10:5 “casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,” R- ESULT-Phil 4:7;9 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. ★ Support this podcast ★

February 16, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: The Courage to ForgiveScripture: Luke 23:32-34“Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”-‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭32‬-‭34‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: It takes courageous faith to forgive when your feelings are saying not to forgive. FORGIVENESS IS A COMMAND...Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.-Ephesians 4:32And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.-Mark 11:25FORGIVENESS IS A CHOICE...“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”-‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18‬:‭21‬-‭22‬ ‭FORGIVENESS IS SEEN AT THE CROSS...“Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” -‭‭Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭34‬ ‭CONCLUSION: Forgiveness is not just something you give but also something you receive. ★ Support this podcast ★

February 9, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: The Courage to HealScripture: Mark 5:25-34 NAS““A woman who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years, and had endured much at the hands of many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was not helped at all, but rather had grown worse— after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak. For she thought, “If I just touch His garments, I will get well.” Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched My garments?” And His disciples said to Him, “You see the crowd pressing in on You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ” And He looked around to see the woman who had done this. But the woman fearing and trembling, aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction.””‭‭INTRODUCTION: Mountains are made to be moved! A Bold Action...“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”-‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭11‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬Desperation on Display:She heard about JesusShe came up behind Jesus in the crowdShe reach out and touched JesusFaith without works is dead.-JamesA Merciful Savior...Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched My garments?” -Mark 5:30 NASBJesus' Response to the Woman: Jesus felt power leave him.Jesus turned around.Jesus asked, "Who touched my garments?"A Transformative Outcome...And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction.”-Mark 5:34 NASBThe woman was healed: Emotionally: "Daughter."Physically: "Your faith and healed you."Spiritually: "Go in peace and be healed of your affliction..."CONCLUSION: Courageous faith refused to be stopped by the crowd because mountains are made to be moved! ★ Support this podcast ★

February 2, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: Trusting God's Plan: Life Lessons from AbrahamScripture: Genesis 22:1-2“Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.””‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: Life is full of lessons that must be learned. Life Lessons: Answer the Call...“Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about.”‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭3‬ ‭NIV‬‬Act in Faith...“On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.””‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭4‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬Avoid the temptation to try to figure it all out...“Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together.”‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭7‬-‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.”‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬CONCLUSION: Trusting God's plan ultimately leads us to the place of provision. “So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.””‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV ★ Support this podcast ★

January 26, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: The Great CommissionScripture: Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭18‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.””‭‭INTRODUCTION: The church has been empowered by the Holy Spirit to go make disciples of all nations. Jesus has all authority...Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.-Matthew 28:18Jesus has given us authority...What is authority (Exousia)?Authority is the right or privilege to exercise influence or control. It implies a recognized position or role that grants ability to influence or direct others. “He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”-‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭18‬-‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬“Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.”-‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬Jesus has given us power...What is power (Dunamis)?Power is the ability or capacity to do something, often emphasizing strength, might, or miraculous abilities. It is the ability to enact authority or to perform actions. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.””‭‭Acts‬ ‭1‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬Conclusion: Not only has Jesus given us power but he has given us the authority to function in the power of the Holy Spirit. “He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.””-‭‭Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭15‬-‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬ ★ Support this podcast ★

January 19, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: The Samaritan's KindnessScripture: Luke 10:33-37“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.””‭INTRODUCTION: Like the Good Samaritan, we must all find time to kind. The Man...A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. -Luke 10:30For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.-Romans 3:23For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23Who is the man in the story?The Religious...“A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.”-‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭31‬-‭32‬ ‭NIV‬‬Without Jesus, all religious activity is powerless to change our lives and to help others! The Good Samaritan...Who is the Good Samaritan in the story? He came to where the man was.He took compassion on the man.He oil and wine on his wounds and bandage them. He picked him up.He took him to a safe place to heal.He paid for it all. CONCLUSION: Our Savior Jesus is the GOOD SAMARITAN and like Him we are called to extend kindness to those we meet. ★ Support this podcast ★

January 12, 2025Series: Courageous FaithSermon: Daniel's FriendsScripture: Daniel 3:16-18“Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.””INTRODUCTION: Faith is purified by the fire of trials.Daniel's friends had a furious adversary...Furious with rage, Nebuchandenezzar summoned Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego...-Daniel 3:13Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.1 Peter 5:8Daniel's friends had faith...“Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hands."-Daniel 3:16-17Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. -1 Peter 5:9Daniel's friends had courage... But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.-Daniel 3:18Be courageous; be strong...-1 Corinthians 16:13CONCLUSION: Like Daniel's friends, we can have courageous faith! ★ Support this podcast ★

January 5, 2025Download the Courageous Faith study guide here:https://bridgechurch.tv/21days/Series: Courageous FaithSermon: Vision: Seeing Beyond the PresentScripture: Proverbs 29:18Where there is no vision, the people perish. KJVWhere there is no revelation, people cast off restraint. NIVWhere there is no prophetic vision, the people cast off restraint. ESVINTRODUCTION: The key to seeing beyond the present and moving forward is aligning our personal vision and church vision with God's will. (TELL THE STORY): Video for GB & NC...With Main Vision Points and Objectives! Tell the STORY OF 2024... List the Accomplishments: Overall and Campus SpecificMission: To Connect All people to the person, power, and purpose of Jesus. Our REACH must go wider, and our DISCIPLESHIP must go deeper! VALUES: KNOW GODFIND FREEDOMDISCOVER PURPOSEMAKE A DIFFERENCE VISION Defined: Vision is a clear mental image of a preferable future!Vision is the art of seeing what’s invisible to others.Helen Keller… the only thing worse than being blind is having sight without vision.BIBLICAL VISION: In the Bible vision does not begin with seeing but with hearing. Again, without a prophetic revelation (what you are hearing from God), the people perish. Vision Points: Campus Specific...Write the vision down, make it plan on tablets. Habakkuk 2:2Characteristics of a Godly Vision - A. Inspired by Faith - 1. Trusting in God's promises - 2. Examples from biblical figures (e.g., Abraham, Moses) - B. Hopeful and Transformative - 1. Vision that brings change and hope - 2. Encouraging others to embrace the vision - C. Action-Oriented - 1. Taking steps towards fulfilling the vision - 2. The role of perseverance and commitmentCONCLUSION: Like the Apostle Paul, we will stay true to the heavenly vision!For information or to register for the School of Ministry:https://bridgechurch.tv/schoolofministry ★ Support this podcast ★

December 29, 2024Letting Go + Looking ForwardIsaiah 43:18-19 ★ Support this podcast ★

December 24, 2024Series: The Great Gift ExchangeSermon: Give God Your Fear and He'll Give You His FavorScripture: Luke 2:8-14'But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” INTRODUCTION: Letting go can be hard! However, we must let go of fear and take hold of God's favor. What is God's favor? Favor is the goodness of God that has been given to us through Jesus. How to exchange fear for favor:Seek Jesus...'When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” '-Luke 2:15 2. See Jesus...'So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, '-Luke 2:16-17a 3. Spread Jesus...When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, '-Luke 2:17CONCLUSION: Favor is spelled JESUS! ★ Support this podcast ★

December 22, 2024Series: The Great Gift ExchangeSermon: Give God Your Grief and He'll Give You His JoyScripture: Luke 1:39-47'At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, 'INTRODUCTION: Grief doesn't have to become your grave. What is grief? Grief is the emotional response to loss.What should we do with grief? ANSWER: Open the door of our hearts to JesusHere I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. -Revelation 3:20Elizabeth open the door to MaryElizabeth heard Mary's greetingElizabeth's baby leapedElizabeth was filled with the Holy SpiritConclusion: Jesus wants to turn our grief to joy. ★ Support this podcast ★

December 15, 2024Series: The Great Gift ExchangeSermon: Give God Your Hurt and He'll Give You His HealingScripture: Matthew 1:18-23'This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about : His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). 'INTRODUCTION: Following God is not always easy and there is the potential of getting hurt on the journey. Three Steps to Giving God Your Hurt:Acknowledge Your Hurt...Emotional Hurts (Loss, Betrayal, Rejection)Physical Hurts (illness,injury)Spiritual hurts (sin and feelings of disconnection from God)Address Your Hurt...Unaddressed hurt can create long term pain and consequences.-Archie CallahanConsequences of Unaddressed Hurt...Poor Mental HealthStrained RelationshipsSpiritual StagnationAvoid Isolation...Go VerticalGo Horizontal CONCLUSION: Healing is always available when you bring your hurt to God. ★ Support this podcast ★

December 8, 2024Series: The Great Gift ExchangeSermon: Give God Your Worry and He'll Give You His PeaceScripture: Luke 1:29-33'Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” 'INTRODUCTION: What do you do when God's words make you worry? What Is Worry? The Dictionary of Bible Themes defines Worry as, “A sense of uneasiness and anxiety about the future. Scripture indicates that such anxiety is ultimately grounded in a lack of trust in God and his purposes.”Words paint pictures...'The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” '-Luke 1:28Words are but pictures.-John DrydenPictures produce emotions and feelings...'Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.'-Luke 1:29A picture is worth a thousand words.-Fred R. BarnardTrust the Painter...But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. -Luke 1:30Saturate your worry with worship.-Archie CallahanCONCLUSION: Trust the painter when you can't see or figure out the whole picture. God is still painting your story on the canvas of life. ★ Support this podcast ★

December 1, 2024Series: The Great Gift ExchangeSermon: Give God Your Life and He'll Give You His LifeScripture: Luke 1:34-38'“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. 'INTRODUCTION: You receive LIFE when you give your life Jesus.You receive three things that MARY received when you give your life to Jesus:Receive the Presence of God...The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you...-Luke 1:35aReceive the Power of God......and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.-Luke 1:35bReceive the Promise of God...For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. '-Luke 1:37-38CONCLUSION: Mary said, "I am the Lord's servant." ★ Support this podcast ★

November 24, 2024Series: OpenhandedSermon: RememberScripture: 2 Corinthians 9:6-11'Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.” Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. '-2 Corinthians 9:6-11INTRODUCTION: Before you can open your hand you must open your heart. 'One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. '-Proverbs 11:24-25We are Members of the Body of Christ...Members Must Remember:The Sowing and Reaping Principle'Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. -2 Cor. 9:62. Cheerful Giving Moves the Heart of GodEach of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. -2 Cor. 9:73. Cheerful Giving Moves the Hand of GodAnd God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. - 2 Cor. 9:8CONCLUSION: Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! -2 Cor. 9:15 ★ Support this podcast ★

November 17, 2024Series: OpenhandedSermon: The Test of LoveScripture: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9“And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving. I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.”‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭8‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭NIV‬‬INTRODUCTION: The overflow of a loving heart is the openhand of generosity. Love Defined... 1 Corinthians 13:4-8“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭4‬-‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬Love Refined... 1 Corinthians 13:11“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.”‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭13‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬Love Confined... Romans 5:8“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”‭‭Romans‬ ‭5‬:‭8‬ ‭NIV‬‬CONCLUSION: Openhanded people excel in the GRACE OF GIVING. ★ Support this podcast ★

November 10, 2024Series: OpenhandedSermon: Monkey See...Monkey Do! Scripture: Malachi 3:6-12'“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty. 'INTRODUCTION: What we do with our money shows what we truly believe. -Randy AlcornKeys to Living Openhanded:Recognize God is the Owner...“When we acknowledge God’s ownership, every spending decision becomes a spiritual decision.- Howard Dayton“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;”-‭‭Psalms‬ ‭24‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬2. Realize we are managers of God blessings.“In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.”‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭2‬ ‭NASB3. Repent of ownership.“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,”-‭‭Acts‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬Three things we notice here in Malachi 3:10-12: (-Scott Newton)First, obedience in giving is a principle that is personal with God.Second, obedience in giving has a purpose that is practical for the Church.Third, obedience in giving includes a provision that is promised to you.CONCLUSION: The BLESSED LIFE is the GOD FIRST LIFE. ★ Support this podcast ★

November 3, 2024Sermon: The Anatomy of PraiseScripture: Hebrews 13:15-16Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name. -Hebrews 13:15-16Introduction: What is praise? Praise is a ProclamationShouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous.Psalm 118:15Praise is PublicLet everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.Psalm 150:6Praise is PhysicalLife up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the LordPsalm 134:2Let them praise his name with dancing.Psalm 149:3Praise is Proactive'I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. '-Psalms 34:1Praise is Pre-rejoicingAbout midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.Conclusion: Praise is the response of a thankful heart. ★ Support this podcast ★

October 27, 2024Series: OvercomerSermon: Conquering the EnemyScripture: Ephesians 6:10-12Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. INTRODUCTION: If we are going to conquer the enemy we must Recognize and Resist the enemy. Recognize the Enemy...The World... Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. -1 John 2:15-16World Def. - indifference and opposition to God’s design or anything in the world that is antichrist; empty passing values.2. The Flesh...As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. -Ephesians 2:1-3Flesh def. - Our corrupt inclinations, disordered desires and passions that pulls us away from God, the enemy within. 3. The Devil...Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. -1 Peter 5:8Devil def. - a real, personal enemy, a fallen angel, Father of Lies.Resist the Enemy...How?We have three enemies and there are different ways to resist each of them.The World...1. Believe Jesus is the Son of God.Who overcomes the world? Only the one who believes Jesus is the Son of God.-1 John 5:5 2. Renew Your Mind.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. -Romans 12:2The Flesh...1. Refuse to attribute the acts (works) of the flesh to the Devil. The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. -Galatians 5:19-212. Crucify the flesh and walk in the Spirit. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. -Galatians 5:24So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. -Galatians 5:16The Devil...1. Realize that Jesus disarmed the Devil and his demons. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. -Colossians 2:152. Jesus follower's have power over the Devil and his demons.He replied, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. -Luke 10:18-193. Jesus follower's must resist the Devil and his demons. Resist him, standing firm in the faith...-1 Peter 5:9Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. -James 4:7CONCLUSION: Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can conquer the enemy and be victorious in life. ★ Support this podcast ★

October 20, 2024Series: OvercomerSermon: Moving from coping to conquering...Scripture: John 16:33 & 1 John 5:4-5' “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”'-John 16:33'for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. '-1 John 5:4-5INTRODUCTION: Are you coping or conquering? What does it mean to be an Overcomer? Def. One who conquers challenges and adversities.Three Steps to Moving from Coping to Conquering:Change Mindsets...Moving from a coping mindset to a conquering mindsetAs a man thinks in his heart, so is he. -Proverbs 23:7Cultivate Faith...Moving from doubt to faithSo faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. -Romans 10:17Claim Victory...Moving from defeat to victoryNo, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. -Romans 8:37 Conclusion: It's time to bust a move! It's time to make a bold decision! ★ Support this podcast ★

Oct 13, 2024Inviting Jesus In And we know that in ALL THINGS God works for THE GOOD of those who love him… ROMANS 8:28On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. 3 When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” “Woman,[a] why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.”His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which he revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. JOHN 2:1-11Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” “Woman,[a] why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.” JOHN 2:3-4“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. luke 1:38 ★ Support this podcast ★

October 6, 2024Series: YOLO... YOU ONLY LIVE ONCESermon: God's PromiseScripture: Joshua 1:1-6After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5 No one will be able to stand against you allow the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.INTRODUCTION: Your purpose is anchored in God's promise! Russell Carter wrote a hymn called 'Standing on the Promises'. One verse in the hymn says, "Standing on the promises that cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, by the living Word of God I shall prevail, Standing on the promises of God." Paul said, "having done all to stand... stand therefore. Sometimes the difficulties of life and bouts with doubt make it hard to move forward, that's when you just stand on the promises of God until God begins to move supernaturally and breathes a fresh wind of his Spirit into the sails of your soul.The Two Key Figures: Moses and Joshua...Key highlights of Moses life and significance:Birth and Early LifeFlight to MidianThe Burning BushThe ExodusMount Sinai and the Ten CommandmentsLeadership and ChallengesThe Promised LandLegacyThe Difference BETWEEN GRIEF AND MOURNING:Grief is the internal meaning given to the experience of loss. Mourning is when you take the grief you have on the inside and express it outside yourself. Another way of defining mourning is “grief gone public” or “the outward expression of grief.”JOSHUA'S TIME5 words that changed the direction and vision of a nation!Joshua 1:2..."Moses my servant is dead!" God's promise is his presence which is:PowerfulNo one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. -Joshua 1:5aPersonalAs I was with Moses, So I will be with you...1 Joshua 1:5bSignificant ways in which God was with Moses:Call and CommissionMiraculous SignsDivine GuidanceIntercession for the PeopleReceiving the LawProvision in the WildernessEncouragement and ReassurancePermanentI will never leave you or forsake you.-Joshua 1:5cCONCLUSION: Because God's presence is powerful, personal, and permanent, we can be strong and courageous. (Joshua 1:6) ★ Support this podcast ★

September 29, 2024Series: YOLO...YOU ONLY LIVE ONCESermon: Characteristics of Ineffective ChristiansScripture: Acts 13:36'“Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. -Acts 13:36INTRODUCTION: What does it mean to serve God's purpose in our generation?Characteristics of an Ineffective Christians:Christians Stop...But David remained in Jerusalem. -2 Samuel 11:1Christians Get Stuck...The woman conceived and sent word to David, saying, "I am pregnant."2 Samuel 11:5Christians Become Sapped...For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was sapped.-Psalm 32:4CONCLUSION: Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.-Psalm 51:12 ★ Support this podcast ★

September 22, 2024Series: YOLO...YOU ONLY LIVE ONCESermon: Make Your Life CountScripture: Nehemiah 2:17-18'Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work. 'INTRODUCTION: We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. - Winston ChurchillKeys to Making Your Life Count:Hear the Need...'They said to me, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.” When I heard these things... -Nehemiah 1:3-4aFeel the Need...I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. -Nehemiah 1:4bSee the Need...'Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire.Nehemiah 2:17Meet the Need...Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work. 'CONCLUSION: Remember, we maximize our lives by making the most of every opportunity. ★ Support this podcast ★

September 15, 2024Series: YOLO... YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE! Sermon: What Motivates You? Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:11-15'For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames. 'INTRODUCTION: YOLO...You Only Live Once! "What we do now echoes in eternity." -Marcus Aurelius Live with Eternity in View...For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. -Romans 14:8Why?This ONE LIFE determines where you will live the next life. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? -Mark 8:36Man goes to his eternal home and mourners go about the streets. -Ecclesiastes 12:5This ONE LIFE determines the rewards of the next life. For me to LIVE is Christ, and to die is gain. -Philippians 1:21For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.-Matthew 16:27CONCLUSION: Eternal life has to be received in this life! ★ Support this podcast ★

September 8, 2024Series: NudgeSermon: Maximizing the OpportunityScripture: Ephesians 5:14-16'This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. '-Ephesians 5:14-16INTRODUCTION: Nudge Evangelism is waking people up to see that Jesus is already at work in their lives. I define evangelism as “nudge” and evangelists as “nudgers.” -Len SweetNudgers recognize the Importance of three things:Be Awake:'To live like this is all the more urgent, for time is running out and you know it is a strategic hour in human history. It is time for us to wake up! For our full salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.'-Romans 13:11 (TPT)'This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”Ephesians 5:14 (NIV)Be Wise:Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise...Ephesians 5:15 (NIV)But a life lived loving God bears lasting fruit, for the one who is truly wise wins souls. -Proverbs 11:30 (TPT)Be Ready to Maximize the Opportunity:Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:16 (NIV)CONCLUSION: Jesus is at work in the lives of people that we meet everyday. Will we maximize the opportunity by helping them see Jesus? ★ Support this podcast ★

September 1, 2024SERIES: NUDGESERMON: The Jesus WaySCRIPTURE: Matthew 9:36-38'When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”'INTRODUCTION: Evangelism is an invitation for broken people together to meet the Christ who loves broken people. (Len Sweet)Rethink Evangelism...I define evangelism as “nudge” and evangelists as “nudgers.” -Len SweetNudge: A light touch or push gently in order to draw attention to something. 1. Evangelism is nudging people to see that Jesus is already at work in their lives.2. Evangelism is nudging people to pay attention to the mission of Jesus in their lives.3. Evangelism is patient farming.'I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. '1 Corinthians 3:6-9CONCLUSION: Today, let's join with Jesus on the mission field and nudge those who cross our paths to see Jesus at work in their lives. Let's be NUDGERS! ★ Support this podcast ★

Aug 25, 2024Keep Moving Forward After the death of Moses the Lord’s servant, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant. He said, 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Therefore, the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them. 3 I promise you what I promised Moses: ‘Wherever you set foot, you will be on land I have given you— 4 from the Negev wilderness in the south to the Lebanon mountains in the north, from the Euphrates River in the east to the Mediterranean Sea in the west, including all the land of the Hittites.’ 5 No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. 6 “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:1-9 (NLT) Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Exodus 14:15 (NLT)“When we were at Mount Sinai, the Lord our God said to us, ‘You have stayed at this mountain long enough. 7 It is time to break camp and move on. Go to the hill country of the Amorites and to all the neighboring regions—the Jordan Valley, the hill country, the western foothills, the Negev, and the coastal plain. Go to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon, and all the way to the great Euphrates River. 8 Look, I am giving all this land to you! Go in and occupy it, for it is the land the Lord swore to give to your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to all their descendants.’' Deuteronomy 1:6-9 Whenever the cloud lifted from over the sacred tent, the people of Israel would break camp and follow it. And wherever the cloud settled, the people of Israel would set up camp In this way, they traveled and camped at the Lord’s command wherever he told them to go. Then they remained in their camp as long as the cloud stayed over the Tabernacle. If the cloud remained over the Tabernacle for a long time, the Israelites stayed and performed their duty to the Lord. Number 9:17-19Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” Matthew 4:19Don’t minimize the powerful gift that operates in your life, for it was imparted to you by the laying on of hands of the elders and was activated through the prophecy they spoke over you. 15 Make all of this your constant meditation and make it real with your life so everyone can see that you are moving forward. 1 Timothy 4:14-15 (TPT) Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14 ★ Support this podcast ★

August 18, 2024Series: Hot TopicsSermon: Jesus and the Transgender MovementScripture: John 1:14 & Ephesians 4:14-16'The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. 'John 1:14'Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 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 4:14-16INTRODUCTION: You don't have to feel the weight to decide your gender when God has already designed it for you. God's Design:'So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 'Genesis 1:27'Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” 'Genesis 2:22-23Gender is not a social construct that can be changed but a biological fact designed by God. What makes a biological male or female?ReproductionExternal AnatomyPresence or absence of a Y chromosomeGod's design for our BODY is GOOD.God saw all that he made, and it was very good. Genesis 1:31'For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 'Psalms 139:13-14Sex:Male or female, Typically with reference to chromosomes, internal reproductive anatomy, and external genitals. -Mark YarhouseUndersrtanding Gender DysphoriaGender Identity:A persons self-perception of whether they are male or female, masculine or feminine.-Andrew WalkerWhat Does The Bible Say About Gender Identity...Gender Dysphoria:the sense of mismatch between physical sex (body) and phychological gender identity (mind).-Nancy PearceyLOVE THY BODYTRANSGENDER:An umbrella term for many experiences of gender identity that do not align normatively with a persons biological sex.-MARK YARHOUSE AND JULIA SANDUSKYEMERGING GENDER IDENTITIESWhat is PERSONHOOD? The World's View of Personhood:Person (mind)... Has moral and Legal StandingBody (doesn't matter)... An Expendable and Biological OrganismThe Word's View of PersonhoodCreated in the image of God...Body and soul are connected.Genesis 1:26-27If I feel like my mind and body are out of alignment, what should I do? World: Listen to your mind and change your body.Word: Embrace your body and change your mind. 'Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 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. 'Romans 12:1-2CONCLUSION: 'Let no foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, “The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.” And let no eunuch complain, “I am only a dry tree.” For this is what the Lord says: “To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant— to them I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever. 'Isaiah 56:3-5'But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 'Isaiah 53:5 ★ Support this podcast ★

August 11, 2024Series: Hot TopicsSermon: In the Image of God: Race and RacismScripture: Genesis 2:7 & Acts 17:24-27Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. '-Genesis 2:7'“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ '-Acts 17:24-28INTRODUCTION: Before we RACE to any conclusions about RACE we must look at what God says about the subject. What is race?Secular Definition: Race is a worldview and social classification that divides humans into groups based on their appearance and assumed ancestry, and that has been used to establish social hierarchies. Biblical Starting Point: Race is not plural but singular. Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. '-Genesis 2:7What is racism?Secular Definition: Racism is “systematic discrimination by a powerful individual or institution against individuals based on their perceived membership in a socially defined racial group.” Biblical Understanding of Racism: The more biblical term for racism would be HATE!! Hate is a strong dislike or ill will toward persons or things. As an emotional expression, a person may oppose, detest, or despise contact with a thing or a person. What is God's solution?God Formed...(Gen. 2:7)God Breathed... (Gen. 2:7)God Gave... (John 3:16)Oneness in Christ Jesus...(Gal. 3:26-29)You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Gal. 3:26-29) CONCLUSION: In Christ we are ONE brand new creation. Jesus is the solution. ★ Support this podcast ★

August 4, 2024Series: Hot TopicsSermon: Can a Christian Drink Alcohol?Scripture: Proverbs 23:33-35'Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. “They hit me,” you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?”'INTRODUCTION: Should a Christian Drink Alcohol? Dangers...Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler;whoever is led astray by them is not wise.- Proverbs 20:1'Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and olive oil will never be rich. '-Proverbs 21:17'Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path: Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags. '-Proverbs 23:19-21'Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. '-Proverbs 23:29-32“Wine has robbed my people of their understanding. '-Hosea 4:11Boundaries...A boundary is a limit and the purpose of setting a healthy boundary is, of course, to protect and take good care of others and yourself. 'Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.'-1 Corinthians 6:19-20"Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.” -Luke 21:34-36The Christian Witness... 'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” '-Acts 1:8'Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, '-Ephesians 5:15-18CONCLUSION: Our Christian witness is formed by the word of God and our sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. ★ Support this podcast ★

July 28, 2024Series: 1 JohnSermon: The Essence of LoveScripture: 1 John 4:7-12 & 1 John 5:1-5Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.-1 John 4:7-12 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves the father loves his child as well. 2 This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out his commands. 3 In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4 for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. 5 Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.-1 John 5:1-5INTRODUCTION: Love is more than a feeling it's a NEW BIRTH experience.Love's Foundation... God becoming a man: The Incarnation9This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. - 1 John 4:9Love's Power... Man becoming like God: The New BirthTherefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!-2 Corinthians 5:17 NIVLove God and others... (1 John 4:11-12 NIV)11Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.Love drives out fear... (1 John 4:18 NIV)18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.CONCLUSION: The 'New Birth' experience empowers us to overcome the world. For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. 5Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God. - 1 John 5:4-5 ★ Support this podcast ★

July 21, 2024Series: 1 JohnSermon: Cultivating Discernment in the Age of Deception...Scripture: 1 John 4:1-6Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.INTRODUCTION: Spiritual discernment is the ability to recognize truth and falsehood. 5 Ways to Cultivate Greater Discernment in the Age of Deception:Studying God's WordDeveloping a life of PrayerCultivating a greater sensitivity to the Holy SpiritSeek guidance from pastors and mature believersRemain in fellowship with God's peopleCONCLUSION: Jesus said, "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free." ★ Support this podcast ★

July 14, 2024Series: 1 John Sermon: Actions Speak Louder Than WordsScripture: 1 John 3:10“This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭3‬:‭10‬ ‭NIV‬‬Introduction: You look just like your father.Our Father…“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬Our Future…“Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is. And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭3‬:‭2‬-‭3‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬Our Fruit…“No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him. Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God’s seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God.”‭‭1 John‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬-‭9‬ ‭ESV‬‬Conclusion: Who determines our nature and our eternal destiny? ★ Support this podcast ★