Central Church

2007-04-08-0700 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning April 8th, 2007 in a special 7:00 service.Scripture Ref: I Corinthians 15:20-24; John 5:28-29Topic: ResurrectionNotes: - If we don't preach the resurrection of Jesus, we aren't His church- CM Police officers murdered; cops are servants of the Lord- Dan White recognized for 65 yrs service through music- Jesus spoke of hope and of the end; Paul's writings for us- Neither Jesus nor Paul apologized for their teachings- We'll all be resurrected; 1st for the just, 2nd for the unjust- First fruit given to God, a sign of harvest to come; Jesus was first fruits of those who died; the harvest to come is the resurrection of the just- The resurrection message is mere tradition for many, a social obligation to attend church on Easter- Local preacher began with apology for His faith as not to offend- Political leader won't attend Central for fear of affect on his career- Satan wants us to gather under guise of unity, to put aside differences; Christians seen as narrow minded, exclusive- Short period of peace to come to earth by the antichrist- Christians in foreign countries know the cost of proclaiming Christ; persecution will come to us- Hebrew tradition of folded or crumpled napkin; linen napkin folded and set aside in grave shows Jesus never to return to grave

2007-04-04-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening April 4th, 2007. Scripture Ref: I Kings; Daniel 2:4-7:28Topic: Baal in AmericaNotes:- Second season of miraculous intervention: Baalism as state religion- Pagan beliefs begin to assimilate into dominate culture; dominate faith evolves into hybrid faith and beliefs are substituted- Begins with cultural accommodation and ethnic sensitivity- Theistic evolution, evolution recast into scientific notion- We see miracles as unnatural, assuming nature is in charge; miracles are when God acts differently than the His usual life sustaining ways- Baalism is ancient naturalism-mother nature as god- Examples of Baal literature; violence/sexuality, male hatred- Introduction of Baalism without blatant idol worship- In paganism you fashion your own god, tolerance, diversity- Daniel: vision of Nebuchadnezzar: the dominant empires of history- Nebuchadnezzar's conversion; Balthazar's destruction

2007-04-01-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning April 1st, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Rom. 1:16; Rom. 10:13-15; Rom. 11; Isaiah 53Topic: God's ChosenNotes: - After the flood, God began a new spiritual race- One is not a Jew only by blood, but by faith as Abraham- Gentiles are given the opportunity to be grafted into the olive tree- All who believe are children of Abraham- Many in Israel have not heard the truth about Jesus- There is revival in Israel among Jews and Arabs- Rabbinical Judaism says that belief in Jesus is to abandon Judaism- Christians have tried to convert Jews, asking them to abandon Judaism- Replacement theology: the church has taken Israel's place- Conversations with security man at hotel in Israel- History of Christianity (Catholic), persecution of Jews- We need to provide resources to those who can bring Jews to the faith- The Temple could go up in a matter of weeks, worship restored- Give out of poverty; He'll bless the motive and multiply the gift

2007-04-01-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning April 1st, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Rom. 1:16; Rom. 10:13-15; Rom. 11; Isaiah 53Topic: God's ChosenNotes: - After the flood, God began a new spiritual race- One is not a Jew only by blood, but by faith as Abraham- Gentiles are given the opportunity to be grafted into the olive tree- All who believe are children of Abraham- Many in Israel have not heard the truth about Jesus- There is revival in Israel among Jews and Arabs- Rabbinical Judaism says that belief in Jesus is to abandon Judaism- Christians have tried to convert Jews, asking them to abandon Judaism- Replacement theology: the church has taken Israel's place- Conversations with security man at hotel in Israel- History of Christianity (Catholic), persecution of Jews- We need to provide resources to those who can bring Jews to the faith- The Temple could go up in a matter of weeks, worship restored- Give out of poverty; He'll bless the motive and multiply the gift

2007-03-28-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening March 28th, 2007. Scripture Ref: Topic: Plagues, The ExodusNotes:- 3 Seasons of concentrated miracles: season of exodus, period of divided kingdom, period of exile; brought redemption, renewal…- God revealed Himself to the nations, exposing paganism- We now qualify for a similar move of God- Some explain plagues scientifically; each plague associated with an Egyptian deity- America's values are the same as Egypt in that day- Magicians replicated plagues; today clairvoyants, soothsayers seen no differently than holy men; God moves in such a way that distinguishes- 3 sets of plagues: 1-3 set Holy Men apart; 4-6 His people protected; 7-9 contrast the Lord and everyone else- When people begin crying out to God, as Israel did, He begins working- America founded in faith; attitudes have shifted, Pilgrims as aggressors- We must tell His story

2007-03-25-1830 Jason York, Central's youth pastor speaks briefly this evening March 18th, 2007 and several people share their testimonies.Scripture Ref: Lamentations 3:21-29Topic: TestimoniesNotes:- Introduction youth mission team to France- Testimonies: Alex Trevino, Michael McLamb, Tracy ArmstrongJason York talks about the Youth Ministry at Central

2007-03-25-1030 Pastor Charles Mack, Sr. is the guest speaker this morning March 25th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Romans 1:28-32; Isaiah 6Topic: SinNotes:- You won't always measure up, but don't lower your standards- What are you still doing that looks like a reprobate?- People say they just can't change; may be right- Jesus was beaten/tortured but never fought back; we must be humble for people to see Jesus; don't be ashamed- God has made Himself to every man- People reinterpret scripture to change what God said- Love the sinner but hate sin with a passion.

2007-03-25-0830 Pastor Charles Mack, Sr. is the guest speaker this morning March 25th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Romans 1:28-32; Isaiah 6Topic: SinNotes:- You won't always measure up, but don't lower your standards- What are you still doing that looks like a reprobate?- People say they just can't change; may be right- Jesus was beaten/tortured but never fought back; we must be humble for people to see Jesus; don't be ashamed- God has made Himself to every man- People reinterpret scripture to change what God said- Love the sinner but hate sin with a passion.

2007-03-21-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening March 21st, 2007. Scripture Ref: Exodus; Number; I Corinthians 10Topic: PaganismNotes:- The Lord's purpose in 12 plagues was to reveal Himself- 3 clusters of miracles concerning Israel- Paganism-value system involving moral/spiritual ideals that threaten biblical community; idols merely a symbol- Paganism reinvents itself in every culture as to not be recognized; sacrifice of children, devaluation of family, sensual/spiritual merging- Neo paganism-revival & reconstruction of ancient nature religion; humanity harmonizes with nature; believe Christians demonized Pan- Prevailing belief: all faith rooted in animism, ancient nature faith practices and tribal religion; absolute religion (Christianity) is a perversion by cultural and social adaptation

2007-03-18-1830 Dennis Livingston leads a praise and worship service this evening March 18th, 2007 while Pastor Loran Livingston is away in Jerusalem.Scripture Ref: James 5:7-8; Isaiah 49:13-15; Psalms 121; II Timothy 4; Judges 10:6-7Topic: TestimoniesNotes:- Connie testifies what God has done for her and her family- Elder Kenny Martin testifies- Dennis Livingston promises that he "will not preach" and then delivers a short message on the many names of God from the Bible.

2007-03-18-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 18th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Acts 10:1-6; Isaiah 58; Luke 6:38Topic: GivingNotes: - Story of depression in 1991, obeyed Lord to give alms, was healed - God created us to thrive, we struggle to survive - When I give, I am imitating God (when I forgive, pray) - When I act as God, darkness must leave my life; joy, healing - When we exercise endorphins produced; optimism, joy - Give when God move you to or you'll talk yourself out of it - Give and it will be given to you - I own nothing; bondage when you keep what someone else needs - Giving is not a debt we owe but seed we sow

2007-03-18-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 18th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Acts 10:1-6; Isaiah 58; Luke 6:38Topic: GivingNotes: - Story of depression in 1991, obeyed Lord to give alms, was healed- God created us to thrive, we struggle to survive- When I give, I am imitating God (when I forgive, pray)- When I act as God, darkness must leave my life; joy, healing- When we exercise endorphins produced; optimism, joy- Give when God move you to or you'll talk yourself out of it- Give and it will be given to you- I own nothing; bondage when you keep what someone else needs- Giving is not a debt we owe but seed we sow

2007-03-14-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening March 14th, 2007. Scripture Ref: II Samuel 18:14-27Topic: EvangelismNotes:- Biblical History is God revealing Himself; honor Him, He'll honor you- Evangelism is as simple as telling your story- Salvation an ongoing process; give God credit for His mercy, blessings- Brooklyn Tab story of Danny Valesco; Muslim waiters in Indonesia- We are saints who sin; our nature is changed to struggle against sin- American Christianity is private but we're in a war zone- Give God glory when breakthrough occurs; your life's a storyboard- An idol is a visible symbol of how a culture functions- Israel called out of Egypt (idolatrous) into Wilderness to detox society- Paul in Ephesus challenged worldview; society's economic system violates simple principles of Jesus, Church buys in, loses credibility- Jesus didn't just teach morality, but called for a revolutionary lifestyle- My story is every story of God's grace/redemption throughout history- Israel chosen by God, placed strategically, always called to this land- Gospel connects reality at place of happening with place of hearing- 1812 flagman relays message "Wellington Defeated the French?- Story of God saving Christian man from falling to prostitute

2007-03-11-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening March 11th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about weariness.Scripture Ref: Topic: WearinessNotes:- Baby dedication (omitted from MP3)- Prayer for Pastor Livingston- Prayer, praise and worship (omitted from MP3)

2007-03-11-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 11th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Jude 3-4; Acts 2:36-39; Proverbs 3:9-10; Mark 16:16; Matt. 28:19; Acts 8:36; Acts 16:30-33; I Peter 3:18-21; Malachi 3:9-10; Matt. 6:21Topic: Trust, Baptism, TithingNotes: - Erosion of the faith from false teaching and pure Christian apathy- Less commitment to faith of scriptures, convenience, enjoyment, preachers entertain, people become spectators; give to get- Trust Him in good and bad times- Obey Him, repent and be baptized: Baptism is foundational, Jesus set the example in baptism, prayer, forgiveness, Servanthood, etc.- Story of Ethiopian Eunuch, urgency to be baptized.- Baptism has been reduced to sprinkling rather than emersion- Infant baptism, idea that baptism = salvation- Tithing: God wants me, BRING, inconvenience, obedience- God doesn't promise we'll all be rich, but our needs will be met- God looking for people who pour themselves into ministry- You take interest in what you invest in

2007-03-11-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 11th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Jude 3-4; Acts 2:36-39; Proverbs 3:9-10; Mark 16:16; Matt. 28:19; Acts 8:36; Acts 16:30-33; I Peter 3:18-21; Malachi 3:9-10; Matt. 6:21Topic: Trust, Baptism, TithingNotes: - Erosion of the faith from false teaching and pure Christian apathy- Less commitment to faith of scriptures, convenience, enjoyment, preachers entertain, people become spectators; give to get- Trust Him in good and bad times- Obey Him, repent and be baptized: Baptism is foundational, Jesus set the example in baptism, prayer, forgiveness, Servanthood, etc.- Story of Ethiopian Eunuch, urgency to be baptized.- Baptism has been reduced to sprinkling rather than emersion- Infant baptism, idea that baptism = salvation- Tithing: God wants me, BRING, inconvenience, obedience- God doesn't promise we'll all be rich, but our needs will be met- God looking for people who pour themselves into ministry- You take interest in what you invest in

2007-03-07-1900 Steve Wright, former Pastor from Providence Christian Center (also known as "The Hotdog Church") of San Francisco is the speaker for the 7:00 Wednesday evening March 7th, 2007. Steve has recently joined the staff of Central Church of God.Scripture Ref: Luke 22; John 13Topic: ServanthoodNotes:- At Last Supper disciples' conversation of who would be the greatest- Jesus sent disciples to find water and prepare for Passover meal- Greatness is not each gift on higher shelf, but stoop down for next gift- The Son of Man came to serve, not to be served- He loved to the very end, challenges us to do the same- Washing of disciples feet- Pay your debts as they are owed- Story of visit to Michael in hospital; man with HIV, lead to salvation- We need to get out there where Jesus is, where people are in need- We step over basin (water) for convenience, time, etc.- We need to reach not only to the poor/down and out, but the rich

2007-03-04-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening March 4th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about being ready for the rapture.Scripture Ref: I Thessalonians 4; John 14:1-3Topic: Be ReadyNotes:- Telephone call that family member died; we're all just one electrical spark away from eternity- At any moment Jesus could appear in the clouds to call saints home- Jesus did not teach on rapture; revealed to Paul after his conversion- End times overview: rapture, tribulation, antichrist, dome of the rock; Islam objective to destroy Israel, one world religion- Our concern needs to be Jesus calling us home- I have nothing to glory in (accomplishments)- God chooses the weak and lost to do great things for His glory

2007-03-04-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 4th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Genesis 1:1-3; John 1:1-9; John 8:12Topic: FearNotes:- God is the only eternal being, complete in Himself- Everything made by God, through Jesus, out of nothing- God made heavens and earth (space and matter), hovered over the deep- Man was created with no needs/wants, no shame or worry- After Adam's sin, he lived long and saw the death, sickness, pain, childbearing of many, knowing he was responsible- Woman caught in adultery, Jesus' mercy, light shown in darkness - Every man a unique creation of God- People fear being caught, that they have been caught, or that no one even cares- Story of 8 yr. old daughter's note, running away but in the house- We all have past that we fear others finding out- He chooses sinful, scared people so He can show light in darkness

2007-03-04-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning March 4th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Genesis 1:1-3; John 1:1-9; John 8:12Topic: FearNotes:- God is the only eternal being, complete in Himself- Everything made by God, through Jesus, out of nothing- God made heavens and earth (space and matter), hovered over the deep- Man was created with no needs/wants, no shame or worry- After Adam's sin, he lived long and saw the death, sickness, pain, childbearing of many, knowing he was responsible- Woman caught in adultery, Jesus' mercy, light shown in darkness - Every man a unique creation of God- People fear being caught, that they have been caught, or that no one even cares- Story of 8 yr. old daughter's note, running away but in the house- We all have past that we fear others finding out- He chooses sinful, scared people so He can show light in darkness

2007-02-28-1900 Steve Wright, former Pastor from Providence Christian Center (also known as "The Hotdog Church") of San Francisco is the speaker for the 7:00 Wednesday evening February 28th, 2007. Steve has recently joined the staff of Central Church of God.Scripture Ref: Genesis 1:31; John 1:14;Luke 22; John 3:16-19; I Peter 3:15; I Thes. 1:5-8Topic: WitnessingNotes:- While we were sinners, Christ died for us; perfect model of how we should live, to sacrifice our lives for someone else- People assume the role of the judge: Jonah, James and John in Samaria- Story of man in mall, man at Disney; misrepresenting Christ, no love- We preach the gospel with words, but often not with our life- Others blend into the world: Peter denied Jesus- Man at General Assembly upset that world was getting into the church- Ministering to waitress during week of conference; there is never a time to rest from witnessing- When we find people in crisis we need pause our lives to love them- Ministering in Harley bar- John Grisham novels sold by word of mouth

2007-02-25-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening February 25th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about love.Scripture Ref: Romans 13:8-10; I John 4:7-12Topic: Men (Love)Notes:- Women gather for prayer, ministry, fellowship, but the men suffer- Men don't know how to love, stigma, we distance ourselves- When men gather, they feel they must always talk spiritual, sometimes just need to be guys together (guns, motorcycles, fishing, hunting…)- Love your neighbor, enemy, each other- The church will not flourish until men learn to love one another- Men need to hold each other up in times of weakness

2007-02-25-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 25th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Isaiah 55:6-11; I Corinth. 13:8-13; Gen. 2:9; Psalm 115:1-8; Mark 16; John 5:39-40Topic: FaithNotes:- God's kindness and love is greater than any we've known- Man's fist sin was choosing from tree of knowledge rather than life- Baby faith is about me, a feeling or answer; mature faith about trust- Your faith should always be stretched, never comfortable- We look at God from whatever perspective package we've been given: American, Calvinistic, Armenian, Baptist, Pentecostal, word of faith- You will align yourself with whatever view of God you've created- We make graven images that we can understand, feel in control- Divine healing, some died in faith- The church is sustained by Holy Spirit, not the Bible- Our knowledge is limited, but we're growing in knowledge and grace

2007-02-25-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 25th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Isaiah 55:6-11; I Corinth. 13:8-13; Gen. 2:9; Psalm 115:1-8; Mark 16; John 5:39-40Topic: FaithNotes:- God's kindness and love is greater than any we've known- Man's fist sin was choosing from tree of knowledge rather than life- Baby faith is about me, a feeling or answer; mature faith about trust- Your faith should always be stretched, never comfortable- We look at God from whatever perspective package we've been given: American, Calvinistic, Armenian, Baptist, Pentecostal, word of faith- You will align yourself with whatever view of God you've created- We make graven images that we can understand, feel in control- Divine healing, some died in faith- The church is sustained by Holy Spirit, not the Bible- Our knowledge is limited, but we're growing in knowledge and grace

2007-02-21-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening February 21st, 2007. Scripture Ref: James 4:1-3; John 16:33; Hebrews 11:6Topic: PeaceNotes:- Interpersonal conflict results from intrapersonal conflict- People who aren't at peace with themselves war with others- Repentance, restitution, peace of God- "I have conquered the world" in the middle of tribulation- People war to get what they want- Without faith it is impossible to please God; seek Him- The enemy will attack your faith in the character of God- 3 positions of prayer: "You love me…" must be the 1st position- 3 control points: Prayer, Giving, Fasting- The reward is bigger than the answer- We are placed in situations to show the world the peace of God

2007-02-18-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston has a special guest this evening February 18th, 2007 in the 6:30 service. He introduces Dr. Mark Mogul. Mark, a Messianic Jew, gives his testimony of how he came to know Jesus Christ as his Messiah.Scripture Ref: Topic: TestimonyNotes:- Pediatric Oncologist, Converted Jew- Suffered much persecution in life, judgmental Christians- Cousin was a survivor of the holocaust- Joined Steve Plunkett in a men's group; discovered non-judgmental Christians- Religion divides, Jesus unites- Story of things 4 yr. old son said about Jesus- Story of 5 yr. old patient visited by Jesus, 5 yr. old boy named Salvador

2007-02-18-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 18th, 2007 in the 10:30 service. Scripture Ref: Philippians 3:12-14; Luke 24:46-47; Luke 18:9; Luke 9:62; Colossians 2:13 Topic: Regret Notes: - There are always opportunities to feel guilty, regret - This body is a tomb, a casket but contains resurrection life - This body is a constant reminder of all our sin - The closer I get to God, the more I see how vile I was - We're called to repentance, not regret - There is no repentance without forgiveness - We hear testimony of people's complete deliverance from desire for the world and sin, but we always struggle - Power of sin broken, but influence remains; keep flesh crucified - Parable of those who trusted themselves to remain righteous - When you start keeping all your rules, you despise those who don't - They'll know we are His disciples because we love one another - The kingdom of God is now and tomorrow, not yesterday

2007-02-18-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 18th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Philippians 3:12-14; Luke 24:46-47; Luke 18:9; Luke 9:62; Colossians 2:13Topic: RegretNotes:- There are always opportunities to feel guilty, regret- This body is a tomb, a casket but contains resurrection life- This body is a constant reminder of all our sin- The closer I get to God, the more I see how vile I was- We're called to repentance, not regret- There is no repentance without forgiveness- We hear testimony of people's complete deliverance from desire for the world and sin, but we always struggle- Power of sin broken, but influence remains; keep flesh crucified- Parable of those who trusted themselves to remain righteous- When you start keeping all your rules, you despise those who don't- They'll know we are His disciples because we love one another- The kingdom of God is now and tomorrow, not yesterday

2007-02-14-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening February 14th, 2007. Scripture Ref: Jeremiah 2Topic: HolinessNotes:- Australia, New Zealand, Presidential Prayer Breakfast- Legalism is the view that what Christ did isn�t enough, the need to work for salvation- We ask "What is permitted?" "What is prohibited?"- We should be asking "How close can I get to Him?"- What would you give up for love?- Clean -up of crime in NYC- People who break little laws will break big laws

2007-02-11-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening February 11th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about fear.Scripture Ref: Matthew 28:9-20Topic: FearNotes:- Scripture quoted by Anna & Elana- Jesus after resurrection: Rejoice, Do not be afraid, Go tell my brethren,- When you're born again, you receive spirit of Jesus, no fear- Who's report will you believe?- God wants his children to be certain where they stand with Him- Why do people stay out of church when things get difficult?- Fear gets between you and God; insulated with fear

2007-02-11-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 11th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: II Corinthians 5:14-2Topic: EqualityNotes:- Great revival happening all over the world, media blind to the truth- When we're saved our thinking must change to see by the spirit- We think politically, racially, nationalistically, religiously- People are doing God's work in very different ways than we are- It is not docrine/dogma that draws people, but the love of God- War, immigration, Anna Nicole Smith- Everyone goes through stormy times, it's all relative- The issue is sin, not politics, government, money, race�- Sin is self-centeredness- Sea of Galilee (water flows out) vs. Dead Sea (no flow out); God gives to us, we must give to others

2007-02-11-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 11th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: II Corinthians 5:14-2Topic: EqualityNotes:- Great revival happening all over the world, media blind to the truth- When we're saved our thinking must change to see by the spirit- We think politically, racially, nationalistically, religiously- People are doing God's work in very different ways than we are- It is not docrine/dogma that draws people, but the love of God- War, immigration, Anna Nicole Smith- Everyone goes through stormy times, it's all relative- The issue is sin, not politics, government, money, race…- Sin is self-centeredness- Sea of Galilee (water flows out) vs. Dead Sea (no flow out); God gives to us, we must give to others

2007-02-07-1900 David Niemeyer is the speaker for Wednesday evening February 7th, 2007.Scripture ref: Acts 26:28-29; Acts 6:8; Acts 7:51; Acts 9Topic: Transformed LifeNotes:- There is nothing like the real thing (God made); snow, milk, eggs, etc.- Are you living an almost life; nothing like a transformed life- Ministering to a man in Home Depot- (recap of previous Wednesdays)- Artificial faith-can do what I want to\- We must examine ourselves; do I resist the Holy Spirit or the sin?- Stephen was faithful, stoned (Altogether); Paul (Almost)

2007-02-04-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening February 4th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about healing. Also a couple of interesting testimonies. Scripture Ref: James 5:13-20Topic: HealingNotes:- Elizabeth Durham testimony- Lois Wooden talks about womens retreat- Pastor's story of Amy's healing as a child, deformed hip - Anointing with oil and prayer for healing

2007-02-04-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 4th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Matt. 27:45-46; Isaiah 45:7; I Kings 8:12; Psalms 139:11-12; Luke 23:26Topic: DarknessNotes:- When Jesus was crucified there was 3 hours of total darkness- Passover, people didn't see that Jesus was the lamb offered- Both thieves railing at Jesus, darkness touched one- God speaks in the darkness, gets your attention- God spoke to Jonah in the darkness of the whale's belly- Saul, Pharaoh's butler- A candle looks brightest in total darkness- Darkness is meant to reveal Him, not destroy you- He does everything of His own will- Simon carried Jesus' cross; sometimes we must carry other's burdens

2007-02-04-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning February 4th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Matt. 27:45-46; Isaiah 45:7; I Kings 8:12; Psalms 139:11-12; Luke 23:26Topic: DarknessNotes:- When Jesus was crucified there was 3 hours of total darkness- Passover, people didn't see that Jesus was the lamb offered- Both thieves railing at Jesus, darkness touched one- God speaks in the darkness, gets your attention- God spoke to Jonah in the darkness of the whale's belly- Saul, Pharaoh's butler- A candle looks brightest in total darkness- Darkness is meant to reveal Him, not destroy you- He does everything of His own will- Simon carried Jesus' cross; sometimes we must carry other's burdens

2007-01-31-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening January 31st, 2007. Scripture Ref: Topic: GraceNotes:- the cross is about the shocking grace of God- in the garden when they ate the fruit they did not immediately die, God deflected immediate judgement- Crucifixion is about the wrath of God, His judgement on man- The problem with sin is that it means rejecting God- We want to tame God, to make His punishment less severe

2007-01-28-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening January 28th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about giving.Scripture Ref: Ecclesiastes 5:10-15Topic: GivingNotes:- The importance of tithing- The wealth is in the seed, there is no harvest without the seed- "The Treasure Principle" by Randy Alcorn- The more you have, the more you want- We've justified greed in the church of America, what we call ministry is materialism- Often wonder what it would be like to be a bear, to go through life and just live.- In the Kingdom to come there will be inexhaustible resources- He blesses me so I can give, you only keep what you give away- Story of church that stopped tithing, is now withering- Breakdown in 1991, led to give and was healed after obedience- Sometimes He calms the storm and sometimes He calms me

2007-01-28-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 28th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Topic: GivingNotes:

2007-01-28-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 28th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Topic: GivingNotes:

2007-01-24-1900 Winston Wooden is the speaker for Wednesday evening January 24th, 2007.Scripture ref: Heb. 12:1-4; Eph. 2:6; Phil. 3:13; John 17:4-5Topic: Spiritual RaceNotes:- We begin the race with excitement, something happens, we lose zeal- Story of man who lost wife, realized what he'd sacrificed for business- We must cast off weights and sins before we can run the race- Conduct characterized by walk, service by race- Story of friend, hamburger weighed him down for race- To finish we must focus on Jesus- Christ has done all necessary for us to finish; who He calls, He equips- Stories: becoming an elder, child cleaning room- Christ is coming back; what are you doing for Him?- Crown of glory, pastor's, of life, rejoicing, righteousness, incorruptible

2007-01-21-1830 Steve Wright, former Pastor from Providence Christian Center (also known as "The Hotdog Church") of San Francisco is the speaker for the 6:30 Sunday evening January 21st, 2007. Steve has recently joined the staff of Central Church of God.Scripture Ref: Luke 10:1-3, 9; Luke 9:51-62; Mark 1:17Topic: DiscipleshipNotes:- Visit to father's grave. Adopted, made part of his family- Remember salvation, God adopted me, I carry His name- Salvation is by grace, free, but discipleship does cost.- Follow Christ to Jerusalem to death, mission field- If God is calling you to what is comfortable, it may not be God- Often God asks us to do something and we don't, it comes back- How to catch a monkey, he won't let go. We must let go- Missions is a relationship, pray about the harvest- It's easier to pray for other missionaries than to go and do- Story of woman (dancer) on train- We are to be fishers of men, not many are fishing anymore- Man at Gay parade in San Francisco, Gay Christian bible.

2007-01-21-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 21st, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: John 21:15-17; Ephesians 5:22Topic: LoveNotes:

2007-01-21-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 21st, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: John 21:15-17; Ephesians 5:22Topic: LoveNotes:

2007-01-17-1900 Jim Busker is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening January 17th, 2006. Scripture Ref: Hebrews 12:1-3; Hebrews 10:15-17; 2 Peter 1:5-13Topic: ReconcilliationNotes:- The kingdom of God is at hand; lay aside sin, the weight of sins already forgiven- A beaver builds a damn one stick at a time; devil brings up past sins, issues one at a time - Dentist prods until he finds cavity; Satan finds weakness, builds on it; bad spots must be dealt with before they worsen- Grandma lost short term memory; some things we need to forget… if God is willing to forget our sins, so should we- The exodus; God destroyed Egypt one plague at a time; soon people began complaining, had forgotten what God brought them out of- We scuba dive for sins Christ forgave; we like to remember the good old days; count them ALL as rubbish; God will free you of memory- If it does not glorify God to pursue a thought, take it captive

2007-01-14-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening January 14th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about the baptism of the Holy Spirit.Scripture Ref: John 4:13; John 7:37; Acts 19Topic: Baptism of the SpiritNotes:- Baby Dedication- At the well, Jesus spoke about water that satisfies, but the baptism of the Spirit is as flowing rivers- A separate experience, evidence of tongues, sent on day of Pentecost- 12 men spoke in tongues AND prophesied- Baptism not greater than salvation, unless expressed in love is in vain- Who speaks in tongues does not speak to men, but to God- Pray, read, pursue love, desire spiritual gifts… that you may prophesy- When anointing leaves you feel empty, depressed. Approach throne of grace. When time comes, He will give what is needed- Who speaks in tongues edifies himself; prophecy edifies church- A move of the spirit does not frighten, but convicts, stirs- Have you received the Holy ghost since you believed?

2007-01-14-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 14th, 2007 in the 10:30 service.Scripture Ref: Luke 10:38-42; Phil 4:11-13; Hebrews13:5-6Topic: PurposeNotes:- Jesus at home of Mary and Martha; Mary's focus on Jesus- Who is controlling your life? we need to simplify- Are you experiencing the Peace of God? Do you harbor feelings?- Are you proud of your accomplishments? If not then you need a change. When you do what glorifies Him, you feel alive.- Are you and your family enjoying the fruit of your labor? Don't forsake this moment for a future that may not come. - The importance of eating together, touching people. Table of Grace- Easter Egg hunts: people spend life trying to obtain what will rot away

2007-01-14-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning January 14th, 2007 in the 8:30 service.Scripture Ref: Luke 10:38-42; Phil 4:11-13; Hebrews13:5-6Topic: PurposeNotes:- Jesus at home of Mary and Martha; Mary's focus on Jesus- Who is controlling your life? we need to simplify- Are you experiencing the Peace of God? Do you harbor feelings?- Are you proud of your accomplishments? If not then you need a change. When you do what glorifies Him, you feel alive.- Are you and your family enjoying the fruit of your labor? Don't forsake this moment for a future that may not come. - The importance of eating together, touching people. Table of Grace- Easter Egg hunts: people spend life trying to obtain what will rot away

2007-01-10-1900 Doug Small is the speaker for Central on Wednesday evening January 10th, 2007. Scripture Ref: Luke 7Topic: HollinessNotes:- Holiness is the standard and the substance of the Christian life- It is impossible for God to sin, be tempted, or tempt- We are too much like the world; grace doesn't merely release us from the guilt of sin, but from the grip of sin- Jesus at home of Simon, woman to wash His feet; parable of two men, one owed ten times the other; neither debt could be paid, as no sin- Double delusion in Church-we rationalize some sins while others are detestable; some think they are less sinful because they don't act out every sin- I'm where I am by the grace of God, no pride or arrogance- Man on rodeo circuit-God kept him by grace- Some raised in church don't realize how far God reached to save them- We substitute legalism for holiness/tolerance for love- Christ's righteousness saves, repentance does not obtain righteousness- Stories: JFK assassination on radio in London theater; Roman Empire transformed by Christian integrity; Nelson Mandela (reconciliation)

2007-01-07-1830 Pastor Loran Livingston talks this evening January 7th, 2007 in the 6:30 service about the baptism of the Holy Spirit.Scripture Ref: Ephesians 6:10-20; Romans 8:26Topic: Holy SpiritNotes:- People look for "activity," tongues, prophecy, etc. rather than relationship. Pentecostal experience becomes destination, "faith level"- Prayer becomes a task- Working on motorcycle, dropped screw, sought but did not find- Women seek husbands, etc. don't go looking, just stay ready- Knowledge/scripture useless without prayer life- Pray for one another, pray in the Spirit- After you've prayed in the spirit, speak boldly the truth- Tongues were not given to preach the gospel- You can't teach people to pray in Spirit, as the spirit gives utterance- When we are weak, the spirit prays through groanings- You don't have the right to command angels (female preacher told angel to find her ring). God rejects the proud.- God is not looking for spiritual giants, but obedient children