Church of the Nazarene

Church of the Nazarene -East Rock When God Seems Silent When God Seems Silent: Part 2 "Is there sin?" ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭3:7-10‬‬ 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. Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” From the beginning of our story, sin has served to separate us from God and the reality is, it still does today. There were times in history when God was literally silent, we believe on this side of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ he is never actually silent today. He longs to speak to us, and he does that through many different ways. We began last week with perhaps the most basic question to ask ourselves, if indeed it seems that God is silent, and that is “Are you listening?” Listening is never a passive activity; it takes engagement and intentionality on our part. So, if we would say that God seems silent, it may be because we have stopped acting to hear him. Maybe you would say today, I am trying! I am praying, I’m showing up to church more than I ever have, I’m trying to serve others, I’m giving generously to the church, I even joined a life group! It is a humbling and sobering reality that despite all those things, GOOD THINGS, that sin can still be separating you from God, making him appear as if he isn’t speaking. As we continue in our teaching series today, if we would say that God seems silent, we might ask ourselves the searching and hard question: Is there sin? Have I separated or hidden from his voice?‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭59:1-2‬‬Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. One of our biggest problems can be growing comfortable with sin, accepting it as a part of our lives, and thinking we can have relationship with God and sin. But the reality is, if you accept sin as a part of your life, you must also accept God’s apparent silence as a part of your life. When we talk about sin that separates us from God, we are not talking about an accident or mistake in our journey as followers of Jesus. While those sins matter and need to be repented of, they do not serve to silence God's voice. What does separate us from the voice of the Lord are intentional choices, sins we are hanging onto, and refusing to let go of. The things that we know the Lord would have us change, but we just aren’t willing too. Are you ready to step out of the Silence? Perhaps the first step, is letting go of sin.‭‭ Isaiah‬ ‭58:2-4‬‬ For day after day, they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them. ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’ “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. If you would say that God seems silent today, maybe even stagnant, I would ask you- Are you holding onto something? Are you resisting God's call to intimacy? You may ask "How do i know?" or "How can i identify that area in my life?" There are a few things we can pay close attention to:- Things that you get defensive over.- Certain topics that come up in scripture or at church and you want to tune out, or you feel a knot in your stomach.- Maybe it is something you are making excuses for- Perhaps you are in denial about a certain part of your life being "a big deal"- Or maybe you know there is sin…and you hate it. But you’re trying to fix it yourself…Not confessing. Not being open and honest. Just burying it. Friends whatever those things are, whatever those warning lights are, God is longing, desiring, that you would let go of those things and embrace him. Will you take the step out of the silence and into intimacy with God through confession and repentance?‭‭ 1 John‬ ‭1:9‬‬ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Prayer Caught “They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled. “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.” Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,” he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Couldn’t you keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Once more he went away and prayed the same thing. When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him. Returning the third time, he said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!””‭‭Mark‬ ‭14:32-42‬ ‭

Prayer Taught Four obstacles to prayer 1. Prayer requires a heart that listens, and listing is hard 2. We don’t truly understand the power of prayer and how it works. 3. Our enemy does everything he can to keep us from praying. 4. We are surrounded by pressures that force us into our comfort zone and meaningful prayer doesn’t usually happen in our comfort zone. “When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation but rescue us from the evil one.”‭‭Matthew‬ ‭6:5-13‬ ‭

Church of the Nazarene -East Rock When God Seems Silent When God Seems Silent: Part 1 "Are You Listening? "In our world of seemingly endless communication and connection, is it possible that we are missing the most important one of all? Our connection with the Lord What do we do when that connection begins to fade? It is those questions and many more that we will seek to answer in our new teaching series “When God Seems Silent”. Over the next few weeks we will seek to understand how to approach life when God appears not to be speaking, when he seems silent. The Lord has not left himself without a witness, without voice into our lives, and the world. So, if you are indeed saying, “God seems silent” our first response is to ask: “Are you listening?” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29:11-14 ‬‬For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart…Perhaps, if you feel the silence today- Like God is on mute somewhere, I think this passage in Jeremiah would ask us a tough question Are you listening? Really listening- Like, with all of your heart listening? Whether it’s listening to someone else, or to God, it’s always an active pursuit. So today, if God seems silent, it may be that we have stopped acting to hear him...What would it look like to seek him- to listen with all of your heart? Throughout this teaching series we are going to examine a few other areas of our lives and a few other causes that may make it seem like God is silent. Next week, we will unpack the idea that SIN is the ultimate silencer. Unrepented sin will always block our relationship with God, and therefore our communion with him. Then, in part 3 we’ll talk about God’s delay. In our fast-paced, 5G phone, gotta have it now world, its often easy for us to mistake God’s delay in acting for silence. We are often tempted to think that simply because we haven’t seen the answer to our prayers, that God isn’t speaking or moving. Finally, the ultimate issue we must face in hearing from God is trust. Do we trust that he speaks, that he hears, that he acts as he has promised? When we doubt Him, that can easily make him seem Silent.‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:7-8‬‬“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Listening is never a passive activity, will you take the first step out of silence?

http://bible.com/events/48960364 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Learning & Unlearning: Community Learning and Unlearning: Part 4‭‭ John‬ ‭17:20-21 ‬‬“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. Of all the things Jesus could have chosen in that moment, he prayed for unity, for communion and fellowship. If it was important enough for Jesus to consider in the hours before his death, are we willing to re-consider the importance of our relational intimacy?" Content used to be a competitive advantage. For the most part, it isn’t any more. What is deeply scarce right now are community and connection… …people are more isolated than ever. That’s playing out the crisis in mental health, rising addictions and the fractionalized tribes we’ve seen form in our culture. Authentic, loving and genuine community are more scarce than they have ever been in our lifetime. Every church should be running to fill that hole. Community means connecting people to each other in groups, serving, friendship and relationships. Nobody should be able to out-community the local church."-Carey Nieuwhof‭‭ 1 John‬ ‭1:1-4‬‬ That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete.‭‭ Acts‬ ‭2:42-47 ‬‬They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Learn + UnlearnIdeal vs. Reality“ To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable.”-C.S. Lewis You won’t experience the real riches of Christ if you’re not in real community In social isolation, we have learned the truth of Frederick Buechner’s words: “You can survive on your own; you can grow strong on your own; you can prevail on your own; but you cannot become human on your own.”-Peter Marty‭‭ Philippians‬ ‭2:1-5 ‬‬Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Verses for further study/reflection :Acts 2:42 Romans 15:26 1 Corinthians 1:9 1 Corinthians 10:16 1 Corinthians 10:16 2 Corinthians 6:14 2 Corinthians 8:4 2 Corinthians 9:13 2 Corinthians 13:14 Galatians 2:9 Ephesians 3:9 Philippians 1:5 Philippians 2:1-5 Philippians 3:10 Philemon 1:6 Hebrews 13:16 1 John 1:3 1 John 1:6 1 John 1:7

Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Learning & Unlearning: Community Learning and Unlearning Part 4 ‭‭John‬ ‭17:20-21 ‬‬“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. Of all the things Jesus could have chosen in that moment, he prayed for unity, for communion and fellowship. If it was important enough for Jesus to consider in the hours before his death, are we willing to re-consider the importance of our relational intimacy? Welcome back to our teaching series “Learning and Un-learning” Our series began by understanding that our message does not change, but the way in which it is communicated MUST change if we are to be successful in our call to reach our world. The point of this series is that we want to see how we are to live out the timeless truths of scripture in our ever-changing world. We have seen throughout this series that we are to share in Jesus’ heart, and his call to be a compassionate and peacemaking presence in our world. Today as we finish up our series, we want to be honest about our tendency as believers to scatter- to be staunchly self-sufficient and self-reliant Sadly, the pandemic gave us an excuse to disconnect. -And that’s a word that should never describe God’s children. What Jesus prayed for us in John 17 is more than sitting beside one another on Sunday's, it’s having true connection to each other through Christ.‭‭1 John‬ ‭1:1-4‬‬That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. We write this to make our joy complete. Fellowship in this passage is the Greek word Koinonia. Fellowship or koinonia- when John carefully chose that word, he was not thinking of pot-luck dinners, (unfortunately).It’s not just sharing the same room on Sunday mornings, it’s not even the casual “How’s work going?” interactions that we often have. It’s much, much, more than that.In fact, if you really understood the depth of that word – koinonia – it might, frankly, make you just a little uncomfortable. Koinonia is about sharing personal, intimate, depth and meaning with fellow believers. It is a sharing of value and purpose. It is a sharing of resources as well as responsibility. It’s shared common life together. Koinonia, fellowship is what the disciples had when the Holy spirit came at Pentecost in Acts 2Acts 2:42 - 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. The coming of the Holy Spirit here in acts brings the first mention of koinonia, of fellowship at this kind of level. This reveals and affirms the truth that John gives in our passage, that it is only through Christ that we can have this kind of relationship with other believers.‭‭ 1 John‬ ‭1:5-7‬‬ This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. Since God is absolutely free of sin and darkness, if we continue to choose sin, we continue to choose our own way- we don’t actually have fellowship with him. But if we will esteem Christ above all- choosing him over ourselves- we have his life in us- and we share that life with others, and Christ cleanses us from the sinful nature that’s within us. Sin and the serving of self are the ultimate disruption to true intimacy with God and with one another. We must give ourselves to learning what it is to hold our intimacy in Christ as THE single most important factor in how we relate to other believers. We must un-learn the ways of categorizing each other and learn what it is to live into our given unity in Christ Jesus. After all, we ARE ONE in Christ. Verses for further study/reflection: Acts 2:42 Romans 15:26 1 Corinthians 1:9 1 Corinthians 10:16 1 Corinthians 10:16 2 Corinthians 6:14 2 Corinthians 8:4 2 Corinthians 9:13 2 Corinthians 13:14 Galatians 2:9 Ephesians 3:9 Philippians 1:5 Philippians 2:1 Philippians 3:10 Philemon 1:6 Hebrews 13:16 1 John 1:3 1 John 1:6 1 John 1:7

http://bible.com/events/48956533 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Learning & Unlearning: The Polarized World In every single one of your relationships, bring the peace of Christ with you. Series Purpose: We must gain a perspective on how living as a Christian may be different now that we are, for the most part, on the “other side” of the pandemic. We will grasp that there are things to “unlearn” – setting aside old ideas – and “learn” gaining new understanding for real outreach and discipleship post COVID. Today's focus: This world is more divided, more polarized than ever before. And in the midst of the turmoil, our Savior declares: “Blessed are the peacemakers.” A recent international study declared emphatically: "No established democracy in recent history has been as deeply polarized as the U.S." In the midst of this polarized world, we must ask the Lord, "what is my mission?"‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭5:3-10‬‬ “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Here’s the word of the Lord Himself to those living in a divided world:" Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." What is a peacemaker? To be a peacemaker is to love and obey the Prince of Peace, know His gift of peace and diligently share it with others. 1. Peacemakers take action.-Peacemakers are involved in the action of healing and restoring.-Peacemakers don't avoid conflict. While they certainly don't try to create conflict, they are so committed to this idea of seeing God's peace enter into the lives of others that they are willing to endure conflict.‭‭ 2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:16-20‬‬ So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, 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: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 2. Peacemakers reconcile (people with God & themselves with others)-Peacemakers carry a burden for a broken world and desperately want every person to be reconciled to God, the Prince of Peace.-Peacemakers extend the call of reconciliation a step further: reconciliation with each other.-If we are passionate about seeing all people reconciled with God, then we also are passionate to see people reconciled with one another. 3. Peacemakers build bridges (and not barriers)-Peacemakers never have permission to 'write off' someone else in their life. They see the disruption and polarization around us as a divine opportunity. Bottom Line: In every single one of your relationships, bring the peace of Christ with you.Verses for further study/reflection: Proverbs 12:20 Romans 14:19 Romans 12:18 Genesis 13:8-9 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:18

Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Learning & Unlearning: Peacemakers Learning and Unlearning Part 3‭‭Luke‬ ‭9:52-55‬‬And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him; but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them. In this scene, we see Jesus acting as Peacemaker. Jesus didn’t run from that tension, he stood firm on the kingdom truth that his followers were to love their enemies. That’s Jesus. The reconciler, the mediator, the peacemaker for you and for me. A Peacemaker is not only who Jesus is, it is who he invites us to be within our tumultuous world. Welcome back to our teaching series “Learning and Un-learning” Within this series we are trying to see the importance and the necessity of believers and the church adapting to the changes and disruptions in our world. I know you might be thinking that we are trying to change the message... that’s not it at all. In fact, the best news we can share is that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. That alone is news worth sharing! The point of this series is that we want to see how we are to live out the timeless truths of scripture in our ever-changing world. Paul’s ministry wasn’t quite the same as Peter’s and the evangelists of 19th century America didn’t have the same issues to face that we have today. The question is, are we, the church, ready for such a time as this?‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭5:3-10 ‬‬“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Any genuine reader of scripture will quickly realize within our teaching text, that this is no ordinary way of living. In fact, it’s pretty much exactly opposite of the way the world operates. And friends, that’s the point of the sermon on the mount, it reveals the “upside-down” nature of the kingdom of God. So, the teachings we find here are not optional accessories for the fashionable Jesus believer. They are not given as extra credit options for those who need a better grade on their eternal report card. These are the key features, the elements, the ingredients, the essentials of what it means to be a Christian. It’s within these first few verses that we find Jesus pronouncing blessing, joy, fulfillment, on those who are peacemakers.‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:18-20‬‬All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. As peacemakers in 2022, we share in the same ministry of the Apostle Paul. The call of Jesus to be Peacemakers in our world should cause us to ask a few questions in reflection: 1. Do I have this peace in my own heart? 2. Am I living as a peacemaker or only a peacekeeper? 3. Finally, where do I begin? Verses for further study/reflection: Proverbs 12:20 Romans 14:19 Romans 12:18 Genesis 13:8-9

http://bible.com/events/48950458 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Learning & Unlearning: Compassion Compassion may be what the people around you need most. Can they count on it from you? Series Purpose: We must gain a perspective on how living as a Christian may be different now that we are, for the most part, on the “other side” of the pandemic. We will grasp that there are things to “unlearn” – setting aside old ideas – and “learn” gaining new understanding for real outreach and discipleship post COVID. Today's focus: It’s been said that we are living in a “desert of empathy” or “drought of compassion.” As believers, we may be the only source of love and compassion left in our day-to-day world.-Compassion is at an all-time low in our society. Researchers have begun to use the term 'compassion fatigue' to describe this widespread decline in the ability to feel and act from a place of compassion.-One researcher states it this way, "Essentially, compassion fatigue disturbs the ability to think clearly, modulate emotions, feel effective, and maintain hope."‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:12‬‬Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold,‭‭ Mark‬ ‭6:30-34‬‬ The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. Jesus begins teaching - out of a heart of compassion. Compassion is his initial response. He leads with compassion. If Jesus’s response is compassion, what is ours? ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭22:34-40‬‬ Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”-We can never escape the fact that, Jesus couldn’t give just one – Love God. He had to give the second (remember, He was only asked for “the greatest.”).-Jesus is saying that 'all the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments'. All the truth of God hangs on these together. Bottom Line: Compassion may be what the people around you need most.Can they count on it from you?Verses for further study/reflection: Colossians 3:12-13 Matthew 14:14 1 Peter 3:8 "Compassion costs. It is easy enough to argue, criticize, and condemn, but redemption is costly, and comfort draws from the deep. Brains can argue, but it takes heart to comfort. "Samuel Chadwick" Compassion is sometimes the fatal capacity for feeling what it is like to live inside somebody else's skin. It is the knowledge that there can never really be any peace and joy for me until there is peace and joy finally for you too." Frederick Buechner "Compassion will cure more sins than condemnation." Henry Ward Beecher

Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Learning & Unlearning: Compassion Compassion may be what the people around you need most. Can they count on it from you?‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭24:12‬‬ Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, What does this mean for us today? Those who call Christ Lord? What does it mean to you? It’s all too easy to give into the currents of the world around us, to allow our love for our neighbor to fade amidst the disruption of our world. But today, It is not hyperbole to suggest that compassion, love in action, may be the single greatest need of those around us.And His most important demand of the church. As we continue in with Part 2 of our series, Learning and Un-learning, we will see that Jesus’ heart has always been one of compassion, and he is inviting us to re-learn what that means in our world.‭‭ Mark‬ ‭6:30-34‬‬ The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. Jesus likened the crowd that day to sheep without a shepherd, here is a glimpse behind that analogy.. Sheep without a shepherd have no protection from predators, they struggle to find pasture or water, the most basic of their needs. They move about aimlessly, separating from the flock, getting lost, getting into trouble. Sheep have been known to follow one another other over cliffs as they wander. They get bored and are prone to wander off, following interest in random things. But, mostly, and frankly, sheep without a shepherd are eventually dead. It doesn’t take much imagination to see that the crowd Jesus engaged is not so different from our world today. So, the question confronts us today friends, if in those moments, compassion was His response, what might ours be?‭‭Mark‬ ‭6:35-43‬‬By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?” “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.Jesus didn’t ask his disciples for food for 5 thousand men, he only asked for what they had. Today, Jesus is not asking you or me for something we don’t have- He is asking us to bring him what we do have and allow him to bless and multiply it. Can we give a few hours of our week to serve at Boys and Girls club, maybe at the food bank or the clothes closet? Will I commit to the Lord my tithe’s and offerings to be used in his Kingdom work? Can I use my work gloves to help out with someone’s lawn? Or donate some of my time, and a little bit of strength to help a neighbor move? The truth is friends, we all have something we can give, we all have something the Lord can receive, bless, and multiply in his compassionate response to our world. Will we commit to un-learning and re-learning what it can mean for us to be a compassionate presence in our world? Verses for further study/reflection: Colossians 3:12-13 Matthew 14:14 1 Peter 3:8

http://bible.com/events/48949041 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg & East Rock Learning & Unlearning You are alive right now for a reason. Are you ready?Series Purpose: We must gain a perspective on how living as a Christian may be different now that we are, for the most part, on the “other side” of the pandemic. We will grasp that there are things to “unlearn” – setting aside old ideas – and “learn” gaining new understanding for real outreach and discipleship post COVID. In 2021, a Pew Research Study issued the results of a study of nearly 10,000 Americans, asking how their lives have been impacted in the wake of a global pandemic.-40% of people reported a negative impact on personal relationships-28% reported a negative impact on their physical or mental health-23% said it negatively impacted their job-22% said it negatively impacted their personal finances God's Truth is unchanging no matter what happens around us.-God cannot change because He is perfect, pure and everlasting.-“Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8)-“Heaven and earth will pass away but my words will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35) At the same time, It would be irresponsible for us to 'pretend' that the world around us is returning back to “normal”. This series was birthed out of a passion to see the church be faithful in these days.‭‭ John‬ ‭17:13-19‬‬“ I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.2 important truths from Jesus' prayer: 1. We [His followers] are "not of the world"2. We [His followers] are "sent into the world"‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭5:13-14 ‬‬“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. You are the only salt and light the world will ever have – you can be faithful in that, or not.3 specific ways we are called to be learning & unlearning:1. We are a powerfully compassionate people2. We are peacemakers in a fractured world3. We are recommitted to one another Bottom Line: You are alive right now for a reason. Are you ready? Verses for further study/reflection: Hebrews 13:8Psalm 100:5 Isaiah 40:8 Psalm 102:27

http://bible.com/events/48944972 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 4: Teaching Disciples make disciples. Series Purpose: To inform, inspire, equip and challenge us as the people of God to embrace our unique calling to be a counter-narrative people, to do His will and serve others, and to speak the truth in love, to those who are far from God, as we tell of what He has done in our lives and for the whole world.‭‭ Luke‬ ‭19:10 ‬‬For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”The focus for today is: TEACHING. Week 1 we began with the focus of UNDERSTANDING. You can’t reach someone with whom you don’t empathize, and you won’t empathize until you understand. Week 2 we focused on PRAYING. God works through our prayers, and at the same time, God works in us as we pray. Prayer is essential. Week 3 we focused on SERVING. Just as Jesus modeled serving others, we are also called to serve. Every opportunity to serve is an opportunity for God to work.‭‭ 1 Peter‬ ‭3:13-15‬‬ Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, Be prepared: You are thinking and praying about this often. Your testimony is on your heart and mind. Give an answer: This implies a discussion – a back and forth conversation about the Gospel, as opposed to a one-way lecture. The hope that you have: It is your hope. This is personal. It is birthed from your story. It implies a positive outlook on your faith. and implies that Hell is not likely to be a significant part of early conversations. Gentleness and respect: It implies gentleness and respect – as opposed to hammering the other person. Gentleness and respect: You treat people this way whether or not you agree with their opinions or lifestyle.‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭28:18-20 ‬‬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.”-Peter declares that each and every one of us should be prepared to give an answer to everyone. And Jesus does the same.-The call of Jesus is a call to make disciples, which includes teaching them to obey what Jesus has commanded. -The disciples took Jesus' call literally, and the church was born through their obedience and the power of the Holy Spirit. Bottom Line: Disciples make disciples.-We each are called, not just to understanding, praying and serving, but ultimately, to telling others about Jesus.-What God does in and through our obedience is totally up to Him. Simply obey and let God worry about everything else. One way to shape your story as you share:1. The 'old me' - What was the most important difference in your life before you came to Christ? 2. What God did - How is it that you came to believe? What was the most important truth of the Gospel that really clicked for you? 3. The 'new me' - How are you different? How has God restored life to you? What does that look like? Verses for further study/reflection: 1 Corinthians 3:6-8 Romans 10:10-17 Matthew 9:37-38 1 Peter 3:15 Romans 1:164 Simple Steps (Billy Graham Evangelistic Association)To share the Gospel, you can follow these 4 simple steps:1. Tell them about God’s plan—peace and life. God loves you and wants you to experience the peace and life He offers. The Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). He has a plan for you.2. Share our problem—separation from God. Being at peace with God is not automatic. By nature, we are all separated from Him. The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). God is holy, but we are human and don’t measure up to His perfect standard. We are sinful, and “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). 3. Talk about God’s remedy—the cross. God’s love bridges the gap of separation between you and Him. When Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose from the grave, He paid the penalty for your sins. The Bible says, “‘He Himself bore our sins’ in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by His wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24).4. Our response—receive Christ. You cross the bridge into God’s family when you accept Christ’s free gift of salvation. The Bible says, “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God” (John 1:12).To receive Christ, a person needs to do 4 things: -Admit you’re a sinner. -Ask forgiveness and be willing to tu

Church of the Nazarene East Rock Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 4:TeachingWhile telling someone about your faith and the Gospel might not come first, something may be wrong if it never happens. Welcome back to our summer teaching series “Your Unchurched Neighbor”Through this series we are seeking to be more informed, better equipped, and yes, even challenged to reach the lost and seeking hearts all around us. Today as we continue in our teaching series, it’s the moment some of you have been waiting for- and for some, it might be the moment you were afraid was coming in this series…The time when we un-pack the need to tell others about our faith and hope in Jesus. While telling someone about your faith and the Gospel might not come first, something may be wrong if it never happens. We can’t escape the fact that disciples making disciples was the last thing Jesus taught before ascending to Heaven.‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭28:16-20 ‬‬Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 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.” It’s easy for us to see the realities of declining church attendance and the ever-increasing tensions in our world and think we have no part to play in sharing the good news any moreOr maybe we think that its only for Pastors or evangelists. The truth is- we all share in the call to tell others about Jesus.‭‭ 1 Peter‬ ‭3:13-16 ‬‬Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. Peter highlights a few things for us to consider: First, he assumes there will be opportunities for all believers to speak up about Jesus. Secondly he addresses fear Next, he moves to being prepared. To give an answer implies a conversation or dialogue-Hope is the defining characteristic of the Christian- We have a steadfast confidence in our God and his plan- we aren’t limited to live by what we see or hear in the world. Peter says finally that all of these interactions are to be done with gentleness and respect Are you are part of the Kingdom of God right now, saved by faith, because someone told you about Jesus? Whether it was a parent, teacher, pastor or friend…Your Father loved you so much that He called someone into your path…someone with the courage to tell you the Truth…And now you’re the one He’s calling.

http://bible.com/events/48941744 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 3: Serving God works as we serve. Series Purpose: To inform, inspire, equip and challenge us as the people of God to embrace our unique calling to be a counter-narrative people, to do His will and serve others, and to speak the truth in love, to those who are far from God, as we tell of what He has done in our lives and for the whole world.‭‭ Luke‬ ‭19:10 ‬‬For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. ”The focus for today is: SERVING. Week 1 we began with the focus of UNDERSTANDING. You can’t reach someone with whom you don’t empathize, and you won’t empathize until you understand. Week 2 we focused on PRAYING. God works through our prayers, and at the same time, God works in us as we pray. Prayer is essential.‭‭ John‬ ‭13:1-17‬‬ It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.“ Do you understand what I have done for you?”-Serving at the level that Jesus is asking us to serve is easy to misunderstand.-Jesus acknowledges that He is their leader, their teacher, the one in a position of authority over them and yet He serves anyways. Many people are looking for an opportunity, even praying for an opportunity, but it's the wrong one. -Too often we may be looking for an opportunity to be right. -Too often we may be looking for an opportunity to win an argument. -But the truth is, the opportunity to reach someone will likely start with an opportunity to serve them. Bottom Line: God works as we serve.

Church of the Nazarene East Rock Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 3: Serving In many, if not most cases, God provides an opportunity to reach someone by starting with an opportunity to serve someone. Welcome back to our summer teaching series “Your Unchurched Neighbor” Through this series we are seeking to be more informed, better equipped, and yes, even challenged to reach the lost and seeking hearts all around us. As we continue in our series today, we will see that most often our first opportunity to reach someone – if we are truly interested in reaching them– will likely come with an opportunity to serve them. To serve someone doesn’t mean we agree with them or their lifestyle. It doesn’t mean we approve of or affirm their beliefs or actions. It just means we are willing to obey God and follow his example where they’re concerned. No questions asked That’s how Jesus lived, right down to his final hours.‭‭ John‬ ‭13:1-17 ‬‬It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. When Jesus said “No servant is greater than his master…” He is saying loud and clear to anyone who would follow him: “You are servants!” That echoes to us in 2022. If this scene displays clearly for us the heart of Jesus and his perspective on serving, if this is the example he has left for his followers -Why is it that 2000 years later the polls and surveys reveal that many people feel the same way about the church, aka you and me, like they would about calling their cable television provider? Think back to what we learned in part 1 of our series and the need for understanding and ask yourself “what has happened?” I ask what has happened because I have to believe that If I was loving and serving like Jesus, if you were, if WE were, people couldn’t say that about the church, could they? I know we are completing the mission, we are loving like Jesus, and we celebrate that. But I am asking, what would it look like to love like Jesus more? What would it look like if we were more about serving than saying? How can we lean in to bridging this gap between the church and our communities? How can we bring the Love of Jesus into the lives of more people in Elkton and beyond? How can we be so obedient and so compassion that people are shocked by it? The way they were in that room that night. As we have studied and reflected on this passage and the example that Jesus set, not only here, but throughout his life, I believe there are a few things that must be true of each one of us individually, and true of us as the Church if we are to continue to live our mission like Jesus. We must have the heart of Jesus In Jesus, we are shown the power of a servant- In Judas we are shown the opposite of what it means to serve. To serve like Jesus, we must submit to the way of Jesus Peter had to submit to the way of Jesus to have a part with Him, and so do we. Finally, we must have His perspective on serving The disciples looked at serving and asked "What's in it for me?" Jesus looked at serving and asked "What's in it for them?" Whose story could you impact with the perspective of Jesus? We have a choice. We can live out of a “What’s in it for me” attitude OR We can live the call of Jesus asking “W

http://bible.com/events/48938137 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 2: Praying When you pray, God works in you and through you. Series Purpose: To inform, inspire, equip and challenge us as the people of God to embrace our unique calling to be a counter-narrative people, to do His will and serve others, and to speak the truth in love, to those who are lost/far from God, as we tell of what He has done in our lives and for the whole world.‭‭ Luke‬ ‭19:10‬‬ For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”‭‭Luke‬ ‭15:7‬‬I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. The focus for today is: PRAYER. Last week we began with the focus of UNDERSTANDING. We must first seek to understand our neighbor.‭‭ 1 Timothy‬ ‭2:1-6 ‬‬I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. -Paul is saying "pray for everyone", even those who are in authority and may oppose the way of Jesus. -The heart of God is for all people to be saved. -There is one Savior, who made a way for all people to be reconciled to God. Why does prayer matter so much? -First, we acknowledge prayer is powerful and effective (James 5:16). Through prayer we have access to divine power. And through prayer, this power is working and moving! -Next, it matters because it's our weapon as we declare war in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12).-But there's another reason: as we pray, God works in our hearts. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's hearts. Bottom Line: When you pray, God works in you and through you. If we begin truly praying for all people, even people who are far from the Lord, then our hearts begin to align with our Father's heart. He begins to lovingly direct our thoughts. He begins to point out in us things that don't please Him. He begins to give us a heart for those around us that desperately need hope. If we are serious about the people around us experiencing new life in Christ, then we must pray." Lord, give me a heart that beats as one with your heart. A heart for all people."

Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 2: Praying When you pray, God works in you and through you. Series Purpose: To inform, inspire, equip and challenge us as the people of God to embrace our unique calling to be a counter-narrative people, to do His will and serve others, and to speak the truth in love, to those who are lost/far from God, as we tell of what He has done in our lives and for the whole world.‭‭ Luke‬ ‭19:10‬‬ For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭15:7 ‬‬I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. The focus for today is: PRAYER. Last week we began with the focus of UNDERSTANDING. We must first seek to understand our neighbor.‭‭ 1 Timothy‬ ‭2:1-6 ‬‬I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time. -Paul is saying "pray for everyone", even those who are in authority and may oppose the way of Jesus.-The heart of God is for all people to be saved. -There is one Savior, who made a way for all people to be reconciled to God. Why does prayer matter so much? -First, we acknowledge prayer is powerful and effective (James 5:16). Through prayer we have access to divine power. And through prayer, this power is working and moving! -Next, it matters because it's our weapon as we declare war in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12).-But there's another reason: as we pray, God works in our hearts. Prayer aligns our hearts with God's hearts. Bottom Line: When you pray, God works in you and through you. If we begin truly praying for all people, even people who are far from the Lord, then our hearts begin to align with our Father's heart. He begins to lovingly direct our thoughts. He begins to point out in us things that don't please Him. He begins to give us a heart for those around us that desperately need hope. If we are serious about the people around us experiencing new life in Christ, then we must pray." Lord, give me a heart that beats as one with your heart. A heart for all people."

Church of the Nazarene East Rock Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 1: Understanding You can’t reach someone with whom you don’t empathize, and you won’t empathize until you understand. As we came through our services last week having to make a few adjustments to our normal routine, it was a reminder of just how many things are different today, than they were 2 years ago. Some of these differences are not so bad, but there are more than a few changes that remind us, it is a different world out there. The world health organization estimates that depression and anxiety have increased 25% globally since the onset of the pandemic. The fragility of our lives has been brought to the forefront of our thinking through many ways. I think many of us have some memory of toilet paper being more valuable than gold. A conflict a world away right now is affecting our supply chains, energy costs, and so many more things. When we say it’s a different world, we are not just saying it for effect. It's not just establishing a reason for our new teaching series. It’s really a different world. And where is the church in all of this? One look at recent surveys or polls may surprise you. Here are just a few that caught my attention: Half of non-Christian Americans don’t trust local pastors The percentage of people who attend church 1 or two times per month decreased from 34% in 2019 to 28% in 2022 In the same time frame, the percentage of people that never or seldom attend church grew from 50% to 57% Only 21% of non-Christian people have a positive perception of the local church yet 80% of Christians have a positive view. (This represents a huge gap in our understanding of the people around us.)As a church that is committed to the mission of Christ, committed to seeing people find relationship and restoration in Christ, this should alert us! If we are committed to being Transformed by God to bring hope to others through Christ, we must also be committed to making changes in ourselves and in our approach to our mission as the church to reach our new and different world. Yes, the message is always the same. But the world is different. The people all around us are different. Today we are beginning a new teaching series called “Your un-churched Neighbor” Through this series we want to be more informed, better equipped, and yes, even challenged to reach the lost and seeking hearts all around us .We begin our series today by unpacking the need for understanding. You can’t reach someone with whom you don’t empathize, and you won’t empathize until you understand. As we begin will see that until we are able, or willing, to work to understand others – especially those who are different from us– we can’t begin to know them or empathize with them. And if we can’t do that, we can’t reach them.‭‭John‬ ‭4:1-30‬‬Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) 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.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, f

http://bible.com/events/48934667 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Your Un-Churched Neighbor Part 1: Understanding“ People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” Series Purpose: To inform, inspire, equip and challenge us as the people of God to embrace our unique calling to be a counter-narrative people, to do His will and serve others, and to speak the truth in love, to those who are lost/far from God, as we tell of what He has done in our lives and for the whole world.‭‭ Luke‬ ‭19:10‬‬For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” The focus for today is: UNDERSTANDING Only 21% of non-Christian people have a positive perception of the local church Half of non-Christian Americans don’t trust local pastors Millennials think the local church is detached from the real issues people are facing. The percentage of people who attend church 1 or two times per month decreased from 34% in 2019 to 28% in 2022In the same time frame, the percentage of people that never or seldom attend church grew from 50% to 57%There is an increasing % of people who are spiritually/biblically illiterate - especially in younger generations - but open to spiritual things Non-Christians are pretty sure we’re not interested in them for who they are. Non-Christians tend to think Christians are against more than they’re for. Non-Christians don’t see much difference between the way Christians live when compared with non-Christians.‭‭John‬ ‭4:1-30‬‬Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) 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.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” They came out of the town and made their way toward him. Dean Flemming“ Jesus’ love and restoring power intersect people at the point of their life circumstances.”WORK TO UNDERSTANDBEFORE WORKING TO BE UNDERSTOOD As we continue in our series over the coming weeks, we will unpack other areas of focus for bridging the gap or being effective in sharing Jesus in our ever-changing world. We will see that no matter how much our world has changed, evangelism, or reaching the lost, is a supernatural pursuit that must begin in prayer. We will see that perhaps one of the grea

http://bible.com/events/48929963 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Kingdom The Kingdom is now, and it requires grace.‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭18:1‬‬ At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭18:2-4 ‬‬ He called a little child to him and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭18:5‬‬ And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. The Kingdom of Heaven is now Greatness is found in receiving grace This grace extends beyond ourselves We can achieve greatness in the Kingdom of God today if we set aside our human accomplishments to receive and share God’s grace.

Church of the Nazarene East Rock Over The Walls: Failure There is no wall that can separate us from God when we seek Him, not even the wall of failure. Over the last few weeks, we have been looking at the life and ministry of Jesus to see more clearly His heart and His call for us to go beyond the 4 walls of our church to bring hope to our communities. Through Best Week Ever and Vacation bible school, we have done that! We have taken the tangible hope of Christ into our community, planting seeds in God’s Kingdom. We have been over the walls together. Through the life of Christ, we see that there is no wall that can separate a seeking heart from the healing, redeeming love of God. Not even the wall of failure. As we conclude our series today, we will see the heart of Jesus for those who have failed, even those who have failed big.‭‭Luke‬ ‭22:54-62‬‬Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, “This man was with him.” But he denied it. “Woman, I don’t know him,” he said. A little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” “Man, I am not!” Peter replied. About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.” Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. We begin to understand the wall of failure is complex, it’s multifaceted, and it has affected us all in different ways. What if today, Jesus is calling us to follow him over the wall of failure? If you are one that has failed, the call is to embrace his hand as he is reaching out to you, to go over that wall to restoration and redemption with Christ. Follow me Jesus says.‭‭Luke‬ ‭22:61-62‬‬The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. I don’t know about you, but I can FEEL this text. We grieve with Peter because we have been there, we know what bitter tears are like. Like graffiti on a train car, your wall of failure might have many things painted on it. The question of the morning is: Is there a failure that haunts you? If not, that’s wonderful. But if you are staring at that wall of failure…you’re in the right place. The good news today friends is that because of God’s great grace, Peter’s story doesn’t end here at the wall of failure, and yours doesn’t have too either.‭‭Mark‬ ‭16:5-7‬‬As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’ ” Over the wall of failure, came a voice, a voice calling Peters name. In the middle of the despair, playing over and over that moment in his mind, kicking himself, resolving that it was over, he was done. In that place- a voice calls out. Not with condemnation, but invitation. Peter had a choice in those moments. He could stay behind the wall of failure forever or he could take hold of the hand of grace that Jesus was extending over the wall. In that place of brokenness, shame, and guilt, Peter took the hand of Jesus, and went over the wall of failure to restoration and redemption. That choice to embrace grace, changed the trajectory of his life forever.‭‭John‬ ‭21:15-17‬‬When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again, Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. The failure that could have been the end for Peter. That could have been the last chapter. But Jesus wasn’t intimated by Peter’s wall of failure. And He’s not intimidated by yours. Just as our Lord reached out His hand to rescue Peter…He’s doing the same, right now, to you. No wall. Just grace and mercy. Will you follow Jesus over the wall of failure? Will you embrace him? Jesus doesn’t stop at

The Way Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. “ To experience the life of Jesus, we must adopt the lifestyle of Jesus”-Pastor John Mark Comer‭‭Luke‬ ‭9:18-25‬‬Once when Jesus was praying in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say I am?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that one of the prophets of long ago has come back to life.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Peter answered, “God’s Messiah.” Jesus strictly warned them not to tell this to anyone. And he said, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self? “Whoever wants to be my disciple MUST deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." DENY TAKE UP FOLLOW‭‭ Luke‬ ‭9:57-62‬‬As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” He said to another man, “Follow me.” But he replied, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” Still another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say goodbye to my family.” Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”‭‭Luke‬ ‭14:25-33‬‬Large crowds were traveling with Jesus and turning to them he said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’ “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.‭‭Luke‬ ‭18:18-23‬‬A certain ruler asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery, you shall not murder, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.’” “All these I have kept since I was a boy,” he said. When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was very wealthy. If you want to follow Jesus, then first you must die. Skye Jethani (in The Divine Commodity) “My secret is that I want to be relevant and popular. I want my desires fulfilled and pain minimized. I want a manageable relationship with an institution rather than messy relationships with real people. I want to be transformed into the image of Christ by showing up at entertaining events rather than through the hard work of discipline. I want to wear my faith on my sleeve and not look at the darkness in my heart. And above all, I want a controllable god. I want a divine commodity to do my will on earth as well as in heaven. "Are you following Jesus on His terms or yours today? HE IS ENOUGH

Over The Walls: The Outcast Matthew 9:9-13Throughout our summer emphasis on outreach into our communities, we are taking time on Sunday mornings to see the heart of Jesus for those who were "outside the walls". Today, we will see Jesus go over the walls of reputation to rescue a lost tax collector named Matthew.‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9:9-13‬‬ As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners. "As we unpack our teaching text today, we will discover the heart of the Lord for the lost people who are often behind walls we ourselves have built. Perhaps outside of our comfort zones. Maybe even people we would deem as un-worthy Jesus goes after them, just like he came after us. The question of Jesus for us today could easily be “Will you follow me? "Will you go over the walls?‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9:9‬‬As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. “Follow me,” he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. As Pastor Joe unpacked for us a little bit last week, it is hard to exactly understand the disdain that the Jews had for tax collectors. The closest parallel for us might be akin to the scammers who are calling, or email trying to get our information so they can extort money from us. They were viewed as traitors of their people because they were working for “The man” or the Roman government that was oppressing the Jews. They were charged with collecting taxes but were free to collect extra to line their own pockets. They were viewed as greedy and self-serving. That was Matthew-Yes, Jesus saw a tax collector that day, but he saw beyond that sin and shame, beyond the walls, to see a heart longing for something different. He knew Matthew’s heart was seeking forgiveness and redemption. An opportunity of new life. Matthew was so ready that he instantly left his entire life behind to follow Jesus.‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9:10-11‬‬While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners? "Matthew takes note of the guest list of this dinner party, making special note that it was MANY tax collectors like himself and other well-known sinners from the town. In the culture and time of Jesus, sharing a meal with someone was not just a common thing like it is today- it carried significant meaning in terms of relationship, of acceptance, and of belonging. In this scene Jesus has made space for people to be with him, to engage them right where they were, no pre-conditions required. This action on behalf of Jesus ran the religious folks right into a wall.‭‭Matthew‬ ‭9:12-13‬‬On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners. "In his response, we see that Jesus’ heart is for the outcast, for the people outside the walls. His heart is for those who are down and out, desperate in the gutter. His heart is to extend them grace and an invitation to forgiveness and new life. It’s THEM he came for. It’s the sick who need a doctor. What wall is God calling you to go over? What have you allowed to block the Lord’s flow of mercy in your life? What are the walls? Perhaps the wall of racism or prejudice? Perhaps it’s the wall of politics? Maybe it’s even a big old religious wall? The truth is, if you had lived in the time of Jesus, Matthew may have been the worst of the worst to you- yet Jesus extended a hand to his. So, will you go over your walls today? Will you follow Jesus over that wall in your life? Allow him to lead you. Will you be like Matthew and go all in? As I was preparing this week, I picked up a William Barclay commentary on Matthew and it revealed a few other walls we should consider. The wall of self-preservation that I built to protect myself, to keep my experience safe and comfortable. The wall of selfishness that views my relationship with the Lord and involvement in the church as being all about me. The wall of criticism that helps to isolate me from being near the messiness in other people’s lives. Or perhaps it’s the wall of apathy. The wall that says they got themselves into this mess, let them get themselves out. Friends, walls can be built of many things, for many reasons, but the invitation of the Lord remains for you and for

Our Guest speaker today is Pastor Mike Souder who has served 19 years at Grace Covenant Church and currently serves as the associate pastor there. Ears To Hear Overcoming 5 common Barriers to hearing from God I am the gate; Whoever enters though me will be saved. They will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. John 10:9-10 Overcoming the 5 Barriers of Hearing God Asking Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find... If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:7,11Listening Conviction From the Spirit Clear and direct way out of the problem Forward thinking- hope filled Affirms our identity, positivity Condemnation From the Enemy Vague and unclear, no 'good' way out Backward thinking- hopeless Attacks our identityTruth RelationshipSin If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened. Psalm 66:18 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.  Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:13-16 But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back. Matthew 18:28-29

Over The Walls: The Broken All throughout Scripture, Jesus urges us to show compassion to the broken and was the perfect model of love during his ministry on earth. Join us as we learn what it means to love over boundaries and walls and more like Christ!‭‭Luke‬ ‭7:36-50 ‬‬When one of the Pharisees invited Jesus to have dinner with him, he went to the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what kind of woman she is—that she is a sinner.” Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” “Tell me, teacher,” he said. “Two people owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he forgave the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon replied, “I suppose the one who had the bigger debt forgiven.” “You have judged correctly,” Jesus said. Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” The other guests began to say among themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”6 observations:1. There was a woman who was a sinner and she needed forgiveness.2. There was a religious Pharisee who was a sinner and needed forgiveness.3. Jesus came to seek and save all sinners.4. Sinners are closer to the kingdom than the self-righteous.5. Like Jesus, we should welcome sinners into our fellowship.6. There were 2 sinners, which one are (were) you?‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭2:4-10‬‬But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.3 ways we can respond: 1. Ask God to give you the same heart of compassion that Jesus had for those who are outside the wall. 2. Ask God to help you recognize those who are outside the wall. 3. Ask God to give you favor with those who are outside the wall.