Church of the Nazarene

http://bible.com/events/48793898 James and Abraham: Faith that Works "Faith that’s alive is faith that ACTS." James, the brother of Jesus, is living in the reality of faith that requires action. -In the first century AD, being a follower of Jesus meant more than just believing in something, but rather belief in action. -As believers are scattered throughout the region, he wants them to remember the foundation of this faith that they proclaim: a foundation of faith in action. ‭‭James‬ ‭2:14-23‬‬ What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. -Faith without action isn’t weak, or sick or misguided. Faith without action is dead. -Faith that is alive is faith that is active and responding. -James doesn’t offer any possibility of a faith that doesn’t bear fruit. -If you have faith, but don't act upon it, you are, essentially, on par with a demon. ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22:1-14‬‬ Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” Early the next morning Abraham got up and loaded his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.” Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together. When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” Put yourself in Abraham’s place and then ask: Why would God do this? 1. This was not just about Abraham. -There is something much bigger happening here, as this story foreshadows God the Father sacrificing His son, Jesus. 2. There will always be instances where our finite brains cannot comprehend. -This is perhaps the ultimate example of not understanding, but having to trust that God's ways are higher. 3. God was asking Abraham: Will you give it all for me? -He is asking us the same thing today. Faith that's alive is faith that ACTS. Other verses for further study/reflection: Matthew 25:31-46 1 Peter 4:10 Ephesians 2:8-9 James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

James and Playing Favorites Believers in Christ must not show favoritism James 2:1-13 2 My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in, 3 if you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,”4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? 8 If you really keep the royal law in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,”also said, “You shall not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. 12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. Favoritism or Partiality here literally means to judge by outward appearance or to treat someone favorably because of appearance. First it is in direct contradiction with God’s character Second it puts these Christians in the position of acting like the ungodly world as they are disobedient the King’s “royal law”. ‭‭Romans‬ ‭2:11‬‬ For God does not show favoritism. We live in obedience to the Royal Law that gives freedom because we love the King who makes us free. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:1-2‬‬ “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:7‬‬ Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

James and Playing Favorites Believers in Christ must not show favoritism ‭‭James‬ ‭2:1-4‬‬ My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Favoritism or Partiality here literally means to judge by outward appearance or to treat someone favorably because of appearance. All are equal in God’s eyes so they should be in yours. Romans 2:11 "God does not show favoritism" “Have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” James says that when we play favorites based off outward appearances, we have made a moral mistake. James’ point then is that when we show favoritism, we are exhibiting a wavering heart. we have a wavering within our hearts between what we can get from someone or how they can benefit us, and what God sees in them. It's very easy to miss the subtle ways we might be doing this in our every day lives. - How about at the grocery store when you are looking for a check outline? We look at the cashiers appearance to determine who we think might be the fastest. - What about picking out a seat at the lunch table? Will we go sit with the new kid, or will we seek out the more popular table to try and edge in there? James suggests in those every day small ways of showing partiality, we are in danger of actually becoming judges with evil intentions. We are in danger of trading God’s value of that person, for what they mean to us or what they can do for us. ‭‭James‬ ‭2:5-7‬‬ Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? - James suggests Christians are not to despise the poor or the oppressed, because that is contrary to the very nature of God himself. - He reminds us that those who are in Christ, no matter how poor in material possessions, now have the richness of the kingdom of God now, and the promise of a glorious future with God in Heaven. ‭‭James‬ ‭2:8-11‬‬ If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,” also said, “You shall not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. James so far has shown us that favoritism is wrong because it is opposed to God’s character and to his actions within the world. In these verses, we see that favoritism violates the Law of Love. ‭‭James‬ ‭2:12-13‬‬ Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James begins verse 12 with a double imperative that we should live a certain way in response to our relationship with Christ. This brings us back to the key theme of verse 22, that we are to be doers of the word. As we have so lavishly received Mercy, we are to live extending that mercy to others. Mercy triumphs over Judgement. James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

http://bible.com/events/48786410 James and God's Religion "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." James 1:22 ‭‭James‬ ‭1:22-27‬‬ Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. We live in a world filled with self-deception. What is the source of this self-deception according to James? It's not a lack of information It's not a lack of knowledge It's a lack of ACTION -We are NOT saved by works, but by faith. -We act because we love, we don’t act to somehow earn something from God. -But make no mistake, James says as we continue to obey there is blessing! We experience God's best! Religion that God our Father accepts is a function of action: -His Word has an impact on your words -We respond by loving the desperate -We respond by walking in holiness ‭‭John‬ ‭14:15, 23‬‬ “If you love me, keep my commands. Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. James is speaking to believers…do not deceive yourselves any longer: -Listening to the Word isn’t enough -Reading the Word isn’t enough -Talking about the Word isn’t enough -God’s religion, unlike some of man’s, is about living a faith that does – a faith that honors God and impacts others. So how is your action? James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

James and God's Religion Be doers of the Word! ‭‭James‬ ‭1:22-27‬‬ Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. "Don’t just listen to the word, do it…" That’s the essence of the passage- Just do it, live your life according to the life of Christ within you and his word revealed to you through the scriptures. As we journey through this passage today, consider if the Lord has been working on a particular area in your life, yet you haven’t committed to see it through. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:22‬‬ Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Howard Hendricks says “The word of God is not to make us smarter sinners, but to make us more like the savior” Here again is a place where James is speaking Jesus. ‭‭John‬ ‭14:23-24‬‬ Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:23-24‬‬ Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. If we were to set this up today, it may be something like “anyone who listens to the word but does not do it is like a person who sees the speed limit sign, and immediately forgets how fast they are to drive” ‭‭James‬ ‭1:25‬‬ But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. In contrast to the person who looks and forgets, the person who looks into the perfect law of Love in Christ, embracing what they have come to know in their daily lives, that person is blessed in what they do. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:26-27‬‬ Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. I believe It says a lot that only a few versus have passed since James instructed us to be quick to listen and slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Here he instructs us to keep a tight reign on our tongue. The second test of true religion is shown by the degree at which we are giving ourselves too caring for the vulnerable in our society. The final test of true religion according to James in our passage, is to walk in Holiness. In light of this passage today, James has posed us a searching question is there something that God has been dealing with you on, but you haven’t responded in obedience? ‭‭John‬ ‭14:15-18‬‬ “If you love me, keep my commands. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. We have the assurance and promise of God’s divine presence to be right there with us, strengthening us, guiding us. Will you do it today? Will you put into living what you have been hearing from the Lord? James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

James and the Anger Alternative Surrender your anger, don't surrender to it. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:19-21‬‬ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 1.Be quick to listen 2.Be slow to speak 3.Be slow to become angry 4.Get rid of sin 5.Accept God’s saving word If those 5 things were on a report card of your life today, how would you do? Honor Roll? Or something else? What are the things that make you angry these days? -Politics -The news media -Social media -The church -The government Anger is something we all deal with on many levels, and our world is capitalizing and manipulating us through our emotions, especially anger. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:19‬‬ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, “Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear” The Message ‭‭James‬ ‭1:20‬‬ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Human anger does not produce what God desires in our lives, or in the lives of others. The truth is, un-controlled anger in the lives of Christians is detrimental to the work of God within the world. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:21‬‬ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James skips the behavior modification and calls for heart transformation. This is one of those places in the letter where James is speaking Jesus. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:21-22‬‬ “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. Jesus knew that no behavior modification, or suppression of feelings could ever affect true change within our hearts, it had to be a divine work at a heart level. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:23-24‬‬ “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Jesus is clear in this passage, your uncontrolled anger is an obstacle between you and God, whether you believe it to be justified or not. We must surrender our anger, not surrender to it. James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

James and the Anger Alternative Surrender your anger, don't surrender to it. James 1:19-21 James and the Anger Alternative ‭‭James‬ ‭1:19-21‬‬ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. -Anger is a powerful emotion. You could say it is one of the most powerful emotions. -James is writing to men and women who were angry, at least they had lots of reasons to be. These were believers in a very difficult situation – they were poor, frustrated, oppressed and far from home. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:19-20‬‬ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. In the midst of all they are facing James says (verse 19): -"be quick to listen" (hurry up and listen) -"be slow to speak" (delay your speaking) -"be slow to become angry" James makes the distinction here regarding human anger (verse 20). -This is uncontrolled and passionate rage and wrath. -Human anger is not going to produce God's best in you. It leads us to think differently, act and respond differently. It literally controls us! -Human anger never helps you. It hurts you. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:21‬‬ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. -Anger does not produce God's righteousness. It produces filth. 'humbly' -The opposite of humility is pride. A posture of pride doesn't help us respond in obedience. 'accept the word' -Accepting the word here means to allow it to have its intended impact on our lives. -James always sees the Gospel through the lens of action and obedience. So 'accepting' the Word means 'doing' the Word. 'planted in you' -We don't allow anger to become planted within us, instead we allow God's Word to be planted within us. -Jeremiah 31:33, “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts.” 'which can save you' -As believers, James is not just referring to their salvation, which many of them have experienced. The salvation here is referring to the ultimate deliverance from sin and death in the final days. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5:21-24‬‬ “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Surrender your anger, don't surrender to it. Other verses for study/reflection: Proverbs 16:32 Ephesians 4:26-27 Psalm 37:8 Ecclesiastes 7:9 Proverbs 19:11 James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

http://bible.com/events/48779335 James and a Generous God No trial is too great for His gift. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:13-18‬‬ When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. If there is a question James 1:17-18 seeks to answer, it is this: "God, who are you?" Not just "where are you?" but even more, "who are you?" THE GIVER -James answers the question of "God, who are you?" within the framework of God as the one who gives. -God is the giver. He gives good and perfect gifts. -In the Old Testament, one of the names they would use for God was 'Jehovah Jireh', which means 'God provides'. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7:9-11‬‬ “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 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! THE GIFT -James is talking about all gifts, yes, but, in particular, the gift. (“He chose to give us birth through the word of truth" verse 18) -If God didn't do anything else for us, if we never receive any other gift or any other blessing, we have already been given Jesus. He is the greatest gift. -James is saying 'don't let the present noise and disruption cause you to lose focus on what God has already given you: THE gift.' -This is a free gift. it is not wages that have to be earned. No trial is too great for His gift. James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

http://bible.com/events/48774868 James and the Power of Perseverance The power of perseverance is found in the posture of our surrendered hearts to the Lordship of Christ Jesus. James 1:9-16NIV 9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. The power of perseverance is found in the posture of our surrendered hearts to the Lordship of Christ Jesus. When we surrender to Christ, we declare that Christ sits on the throne of our lives and that we do not. Add your private notes... Matthew 24:7-13NIV 7 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. 8 All these are the beginning of birth pains. 9 “Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. 10 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, 11 and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. 12 Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, 13 but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.

We are studying the Book of James. Today we are in Week 4: · James and the Power of Perseverance. · There are benefits in pressing on. The Christian life is a like a marathon. 1992 Barcelona Olympics. · After Derek Redmond tore his hamstring during the 400 meter semifinal his father came out of the stands to help him cross the finish line. · Derek Redmond persevered. He finished the race well. · https://www.dropbox.com/sh/vab3nrtuw3o1dip/AACu19imcelX0PU_AzNsOn02a?dl=0&preview=Derek+Redmond+1992.mp4 There are Biblical benefits of perseverance: · You will receive the Crown of Life · Perseverance Produces Character · Perseverance Brings God Glory We have been going through an in depth study on the book of James. To refresh your memory… · James was Jesus’ half-brother. He was an eye witness of Jesus. · James was NOT a follower of Jesus while He was alive. Only AFTER watching Jesus die on the cross and then His resurrection did James believe. · James refers to the Sermon on the Mount more than 20 times. He had heard the words of Jesus and he remembered them. · James provides practical advice on how we should live the Christian life. · James is often referred to as the “Proverbs of the New Testament” The Central Theme of the Book of James is: · Faith should be about action – action that transforms lives. · James spurs the believer to have genuine faith during difficult times. · He doesn’t say IF trouble comes your way BUT WHEN it does, that as Christians we will actually benefit from our troubles. James: · James was highly respected as a holy and righteous man. · He was the leader of the Jerusalem church for thirty years, even though other apostles lived there. · James was later martyred because of his faith in Jesus. James is writing to: · Jewish Christians, those who had been scattered throughout the Mediterranean world because of persecution. · They were no longer Jews. · They didn’t fit in with the Romans or Greeks. · They were poverty stricken people, many were without jobs. · They were without social status and times were hard. A prayer for us: “Jesus You are welcome here. Help us Holy Spirit to hear the Word and apply it. When burdens seem unbearable help us to be stone cutters who continue to hammer away at the rocks in our lives. Without a single crack and then suddenly on the 101st blow the stone splits in two. Teacher, we know it wasn’t the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before. Please help us to persevere under trails when they come. Thank You Lord. In Jesus Name, Amen. The message is found in James 1:9-16. 9Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. 13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Today’s message is titled: Steadfast Hope. We are going to dig deep into each verse. 9Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. In these verses James is addressing two classes of people: The lowly and the rich. Class 1: The lowly brother. He is talking to a fellow believer. Christians would have been beaten or put in prison. Class 2: A warning to the rich that put their trust in their wealth. A man’s life is not found in his abundance of things. · Riches will only last a short season · Such as a flower will only last a short season. It is the ‘flowering’ to the ‘fading’. Poor or rich trials come to every life. Everything can be taken away in a trial. Our identity must be found in God. How do we live in tune with the LORD so when trials come we persevere? · We must be anchored, nailed to the floor. Verse 12 says: 12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. In verse 12 James is continuing his discussion from Verses 2-4: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because you know that the te

https://bible.com/events/48769165 James and the Dangers of Doubt James 1:5-8NIV 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. -The wisdom James is talking about (verse 5) is not just some vague sense of needing direction. This is in direct response to the words that precede it (verses 2-4). -James knows there will be believers who cannot understand how to see God at work in their trial. -We don't have a wisdom problem, we have a doubt problem. God has promised to give us wisdom if we ask. Our part is not to doubt Him. -Doubt festers when we believe this lie: God cannot be trusted The question is not if you doubt, but rather, what do you do with your doubt? Mark 9:20-24NIV 20 So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. 21 Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?”“From childhood,” he answered. 22 “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” 23 “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 11:22-24NIV 22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. 23 “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. There’s only one place for your doubt – at the foot of the cross. Other resources for further study: Proverbs 3:5-8 Matthew 14:31 Jude 1:22 Mark 9:24

James and the Dangers of Doubt God is with us on this journey. We believe, for such a time as this, He has called us. James 1:5-8 James and the Dangers of Doubt ‭‭James‬ ‭1:5-8‬‬ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. The secret to persevering under trials is not to try harder, it’s not that we grin and bear it until we get through. Here’s the truth: On your own you CANNOT BE TOUGH ENOUGH. The secret, is really no secret at all. If we want a new perspective amidst the challenges of life, we have only to ask and believe our heavenly father, and he will provide, just what we need, but we must ask with the right heart. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:5‬‬ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. “Hey guys, if you are struggling to see your trials this way, its ok, we all do, but you need to ask God to help you see it differently, He is always happy to help you in this way” “Knowledge is knowing that a Tomato is a fruit- Wisdom is knowing not to put it in fruit salad.” Wisdom in a sense is the ability of a believer to discern and live out the will of God. Proverbs 8:35 claims that finding wisdom, means finding life and receiving favor from the Lord. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:6‬‬ But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Just as God is sincere and focused on what is best for us, so we must ask with a sincere and undivided heart. “But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt…” When we pray, we must pray with a singular, sincere focus. That’s the essence of faith- a resolute trust and dependency on God. If we are praying in the morning, then toiling and worrying all day about how we are going to deal with the problem- that’s doubting God. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:7-8‬‬ That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. The word double minded here again carries the idea of unbelief, lacking faith, or of wavering loyalty. It speaks of a person who won’t take a stand when it comes to moral choices. But, as strong as James finishes this text, we need to remember where we started, with an invitation to ask God for what we need. ‭‭Mark‬ ‭9:21-25‬‬ Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the impure spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” he said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” Everything is possible for one who believes- Our prayer today in the midst of the trials of life: Lord, I do believe; Help me overcome my unbelief! James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

http://bible.com/events/48767064 James and the Trials of Life God is with us on this journey. We believe, for such a time as this, He has called us. ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1:15-16‬‬ But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” The following passage is really an introduction to the entire book of James. He will revisit the topic of trials, testing, perseverance and maturity throughout. We will see these ideas again on our journey through James. ‭‭James‬ ‭1:1-4‬‬ James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings. Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Happiness is causal Joy is cultivated ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭1:6-7‬‬ In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭4:1-2‬‬ Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. We are tried To prove our faith true We are refined To truly reflect Him ‭‭John‬ ‭16:33‬‬ “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Other resources for further study: 2 Corinthians 4:7-11 Psalm 24:3-5 Romans 12:12 Faith upholds a Christian under all trials, by assuring him that every painful dispensation is under the direction of his Lord; that chastisements are a token of His love; that the season, measure, and continuance of his sufferings, are appointed by Infinite Wisdom, and designed to work for his everlasting good; and that grace and strength shall be afforded him, according to his need. —John Newton James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY

http://bible.com/events/48761539 James: The Man and the Book God is with us on this journey. We believe, for such a time as this, He has called us. Today we start something that's unprecedented for us. Today we begin a study in the book of James that will carry us through the end of 2021 and beyond. Why James? Relationship - James was Jesus' half-brother. He was a literal witness, not just of Jesus' public ministry, but of his life. Influence - After Jesus' death and resurrection, James' life was transformed. He became the leader of the church is Jerusalem, the first Christian community ever. Timing - The book of James is believed to be the first written book of the New Testament canon. It is the first existing Christian writing of any kind that we know about. Purpose - The book is practical, not especially focused on the theological roots of why we believe, but rather an emphasis on action and obedience in response to what we believe. There is a clear connection between the book of James and the words of Jesus. Consider just a few examples from James and the Sermon on the Mount:-“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (James 1:2) & "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:10)-"Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (James 1:4) & "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:48)- "…you have not because you ask not." (James 4:2) & “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." (Matthew 7:7-8) Why this approach? It will challenge us. It will force us to slow down. It will cause us to dig deeper. What is essential for each one of us as we prepare for this journey? Faith that is willing to persevere. James 1:22NIV 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Throughout this journey, we are going to come face to face with God's truth. And each and every time, we will be faced with an important decision: Am I going to do what it says? If, according to James, we should be “doers of the word” rather than just hearers, what does my doing look like? Am I even doing anything? Other resources for further study: James in 8 Minutes This overview video on the book of James breaks down the literary design of the book and its flow of thought. In this book, James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qn-hLHWwRYY Echoes of the Sermon on the Mount in the Book of James https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/echoes-of-the-sermon-on-the-mount-in-the-book-of-james/

http://bible.com/events/48757066 It’s All in Your Mind: Thinking Straight If your mind believes anything you tell it….what are you telling it? Missed week 2 of the series? Check out last week's message as Pastor Adrian shares the truth of how we 'take every thought captive' in the battle of the mind.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9nVXaE330I Maybe you find yourself praying, "Lord, change my circumstances". Maybe you find yourself praying, "Lord, change my actions". Maybe you find yourself praying, "Lord, change my heart". But over these last few weeks, we are learning that the most important prayer we can pray is this:" Lord, change my mind". Last week we focused on what NOT to think. This week we will lean into this question: So what SHOULD we think about? Philippians 4:4-9NIV 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. As we choose to rejoice and as we choose not to be anxious, we experience the peace of God. It's not our version of peace, but rather it will be His peace.-In the battle of the mind, Paul commands the church to dwell on these specific things.-Paul moves from thought ('think on such things') to action ('put it into practice'), and then to experience ('God of peace will be with you'). "Your mind always believes everything you tell it." Anonymous So, what are you telling it? Isaiah 26:3NIV 3 You will keep in perfect peacethose whose minds are steadfast,because they trust in you. A declaration to dwell upon: I am a child of God, created and saved by Him. Jesus did for me what no one else could do – providing my forever life in Heaven by faith through His death and resurrection. It doesn’t matter what I see in my circumstances, I will trust Him. I will hope, because I am His. Worry is not my master. Fear will not rule me. My enemy wants to bury me under a mountain of lies. He will not. God’s Word is truth .I will fix my mind on Him, the one most lovely, noble and beautiful. I will not focus on myself but on loving every one around me daily. I need Him so desperately and He will be faithful. I believe.

It's All in Your Mind Part 3 It's All In Your Mind: Thinking straight Welcome back to series- It's all in your mind "Most of life's battles are won or lost in our minds" ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:4-5‬‬ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. With everything happening in the world right now, it could be hard to find something to rejoice about. But, this isn’t saying “rejoice in the world” rather “rejoice in the Lord.” ALWAYS. ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6‬‬ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. As followers of Jesus, we don’t find victory in the battle of our minds within ourselves, we find it within the person and presence of Jesus. ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:7‬‬ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. This is the peace that Jesus spoke of when he said. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:8‬‬ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. If last week we looked specifically at what NOT to think about, the Apostle Paul is telling us what TO think about. How would your life be different if you focused and dwelt on these things? ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:9‬‬ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Paul's final exhortation is to put into practice what they have seen and what they have learned from him. We have the same commission today!

It’s All in Your Mind: Captivated "You cannot change what you do not confront." -Craig Groeschel • Share Event • Locations and TimesReview - Week 1-We are focusing this series on the battle in our minds. We believe God gives us victory in this battle. We will not waste another day losing a battle we can win.-There are a lot of ways God's Word could challenge us to be transformed, but it clearly states we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).-Most of life’s battles are won or lost in the mind.-This transformation isn’t optional – only for some people – but for anyone who wants to mature in the faith. It's for anyone who wants to experience victory.-Without a renewed mind we are adrift, not able to know the Will of God.-When we are in Christ, we have access to the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).-A transformed mind isn’t just your mind cleaned up a little – it’s HIS MIND IN YOU.-Our declaration of truth: Change your mind, change your life.Add your private notes...• • •The question for us today: What does it look like to have our minds transformed?If we are to be transformed by our mind’s renewal, then what does that look like on a day by day and moment by moment basis?Add your private notes...• • •2 Corinthians 10:3-5NIV 3 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. 4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. The word used here for war literally means….war. The word used here for weapons literally means…weapons. Paul’s readers would have been thinking of actual war.-While the opening sounds like an instruction on waging an earthly war, it might surprise you when, in verse 5, Paul writes that we are not fighting people, but “arguments and every pretension”-The word for “take captive” is also a military term, indicating that you have overcome an enemy and that enemy is now under your control.-It appears there are two options presented in the text: you control your thoughts or your thoughts will control you. The good news:-Just because a thought is in your head does not mean it’s your thought .It does not mean you put it there. It does not mean that it’s true.-Just because a thought pops into your head doesn’t mean you have to accept and believe it.-You actually have the power to CHOOSE what you believe and what you allow into your mind. How we 'take thoughts captive':1. First we must ask 'what is the lie'?2. Next we must ask 'what does God's Word say'?3. We must proclaim truth over our lives. Taking every thought captive means that we take control of what we think. We think intentionally, not accidentally Stronghold: God doesn’t exist. The Truth:-The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” Psalm 14:1-The heavens declare the glory of God the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. Psalm 19:1-2-Jesus said, "Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father" John 14:9-You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13Add your private notes...• • •Stronghold: I'll never know God's will. He has abandoned me. The Truth:-Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6-Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10-The Lord has said “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid." Hebrews 13:5-6 Stronghold: God ignores my prayers completely. The Truth:-This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14-The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16-And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Luke 11:9 (NLT) Stronghold: I'm a failure and always will be. The Truth:-For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13-I don’t want self-confidence anyway – my confidence is and always will be in Him. (But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7)-Jesus said "He must greater and I must less." (He must increase, I must decrease) John 3:30 Stronghold: God won't meet my needs. The Truth:-Jesus said "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? " Matthew 6

Church of the Nazarene- East Rock It's All in Your Mind Part 2 It's All In Your Mind: Captivated Welcome back to series- It's all in your mind "Most of life's battles are won or lost in our minds" ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:3‬‬ For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5:8‬‬ Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. From the very beginning, to follow Jesus means to live differently, to engage the battle differently than the world around us. ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:4‬‬ The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. "Not" here is in the strongest tense in the original language. "The weapons we fight with are absolutely not the weapons of the world..." "Victory in the battle of the mind, begins with surrender" ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭16:24-25‬‬ Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. "Our commitment to Jesus must rule over our desire to realize our own fulfillment" ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10:5‬‬ We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. What does this look like in our everyday lives? 1. First, we must ask "What's the lie?" 2. Next, we must ask "What's God's Word say?" 3. Finally, we must proclaim truth over our lives. (Counter attack!)

It's All In Your Mind: Part 1: Transformation Welcome to our new series- It's all in your mind "Our mind is the control center of our attitudes, our thoughts, our perceptions, our feelings, our affections, and our actions." What we think about matters! -We are focusing this series on the battle in our minds. We believe God gives us victory in this battle. We will not waste another day losing a battle we can win.-There are a lot of ways God's Word could challenge us to be transformed, but it clearly states we are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).-Most of life’s battles are won or lost in the mind.-This transformation isn’t optional – only for some people – but for anyone who wants to mature in the faith. It's for anyone who wants to experience victory.-Without a renewed mind we are adrift, not able to know the Will of God.-When we are in Christ, we have access to the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16).-A transformed mind isn’t just your mind cleaned up a little – it’s HIS MIND IN YOU.-Our declaration of truth: Change your mind, change your life.

It's All In Your Mind: Part 1-Transformation Welcome to our new series- It's all in your mind "Our mind is the control center of our attitudes, our thoughts, our perceptions, our feelings, our affections, and our actions." What we think about matters! How is your thought life right now? Where would you land on these scales? Worried 1 2 3 4...8 9 10 Peaceful Pessimistic/negative 1 2 3 4...8 9 10 Optimistic/hopeful Worldy/temporary 1 2 3 4...8 9 10 Jesus/eternal ‭‭Romans‬ ‭12:1-2‬‬ Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world" We are not to “fall into line” with the worlds way of thinking or doing things. “But be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Rather than conforming to the ways of the world we are to be completely, categorically made new in Christ. The renewing of our minds is a renewal of… 1.The seat of our emotions and affections 2.Our modes of thinking and feeling 3.Our disposition, our right and wrong decision making 4.Our perception, our understanding 5.Our ability to discern and judge “Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” The result of a transformed life and a renewed mind is that we can navigate our world and our thoughts with the ability to test and know what God’s will is. ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2:16‬‬ for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. We can have the disposition of Christ, His understanding, his perception, his thoughts. Because we have the mind of Christ, we can be transformed into His image. Will you take a stand in the battle of your mind? To change your mind is to change your life... Will you pray this prayer of transformation? "Lord, change my mind, change my life"

http://bible.com/events/48747337 Stand Brian Charette unpacks Ephesians 6:10-14 and a biblical approach to standing firm in our time. Pastor Kerry's Message - 8/8/21 This morning is a kind of Part 2 to Pastor Kerry’s message last week as we fill in for Pastor Adrian who is away for a much-needed vacation. We encourage you to watch that message when you have a chance. You’ll find it here: https://vimeo.com/584581193 Ephesians 6:10-14a 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then… ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭5:16‬‬ making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. The Greek word, histemi (throughout the Ephesians 6 text) is an important one throughout the New Testament as it relates to how a believer is to act. It means "make a stand," "stand before/among others," "rise up," "stand unshakeable," etc. Standing Lessons 1. Standing is standing as individuals together - in unity ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:1-2‬‬ Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Just as in the church at Ephesus, there were those in Philippi taking stands against each other instead of the real enemy. ‭‭John‬ ‭17:22-23‬‬ I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Standing Lessons 2. Standing is sacrificing ‭‭Acts‬ ‭14:8-20‬‬ In Lystra there sat a man who was lame. He had been that way from birth and had never walked. He listened to Paul as he was speaking. Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, “Stand up on your feet!” At that, the man jumped up and began to walk. When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them. But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: “Friends, why are you doing this? We too are only human, like you. We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made the heavens and the earth and the sea and everything in them. In the past, he let all nations go their own way. Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them. Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe. Standing Lessons 3. Standing is an expression of love ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:10-13‬‬ At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. ‭‭John‬ ‭15:13‬‬ Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. Ultimately, to stand firm – to take your stand - in a biblical sense, is to love. And perhaps, in the middle of a love drought, those of us carrying living water are needed more than ever. ‭‭Luke‬ ‭21:19‬‬ Stand firm, and you will win life.

Burning Questions: What do you mean you don't believe "once-saved-always-saved"? Burning Questions part 3: What do you mean you don't believe once-saved-always-saved? Burning Questions: "What do you mean you don't believe in once-saved-always-saved? So, what’s with this question? What’s it about or what’s behind it? a.This question is about a doctrine commonly held within the Reformed or Calvinist tradition, for example think Baptists, Presbyterians or United Church of Christ. b.This doctrine or belief states that once you have been saved, you can never lose your salvation. c.The belief is that God’s grace will always keep you, and that no matter what you do, you will be finally saved and spend eternity with Christ Salvation becomes like that sign you see at the store "All sales are final, absolutely no returns." Scriptures that seem to uphold this view: John 10:28-29 1 Peter 1:5 Philippians 1:6 So, Whats the Big deal? I think we can encounter a two-fold problem. First, if we are leaning heavy into the idea that once we are saved, we are automatically saved forever, our corrupt sinful nature will cause us to put too much emphasis on what we did in the past, rather than how we live currently. Secondly, to lean heavily on the idea that we are once saved and always saved is to minimize or ignore the many, many scriptures that point to the necessity of believers growth, persistence, and continued response to the call of Christ. ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭3:12-14‬‬ Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. ‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭3:12-14‬‬ See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end. Jesus argued against once saved always saved, giving us a very clear warning about falling away and the urgency of persistence in our faith. ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:12-13‬‬ Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. So, do you believe in once-saved-always-saved? We believe that those in Christ can rest assured that they are saved, that those who love Him and desire to surrender to Him don’t have to worry that God will abandon them. We believe that a person’s relationship with God is just that – a relationship. And that a person can, sadly, choose to abandon that relationship. As with many of our questions throughout this series, we are challenged to evaluate our own hearts, our own “position” if you will on the matter. How is your relationship with Jesus? Right now? How is your race of Faith going today? are you still in it? Has the cooling wind of lawlessness cooled your once white-hot devotion to God? The beauty of all of this is that you can decide right now to love Jesus actively. Your love doesn’t have to grow or remain cold.

http://bible.com/events/48743010 Redeemed and Restored Pastor Kerry Willis brings the word from Mark 2:1-12 [1] Several days later Jesus returned to Capernaum and the news of His arrival spread quickly through the town. [2] Soon the house where He was staying was so packed with visitors that there wasn’t room for one more person, not even outside the door. [3] Four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. [4] They couldn’t get to Jesus through the crowd, so they dug through the clay roof above His head. Then they lowered the sick man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. [5] Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My son, your sins are forgiven.“ [6] But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there said to themselves, [7] “What? This is blasphemy! Who but God can forgive sins!” [8] Jesus knew what they were discussing among themselves, so He said to them, “Why do you think this is blasphemy? [9] Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven’ or ‘Get up, pick up your mat, and walk’? [10] I will prove that I, the Son of Man, have the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, [11] “Stand up, take your mat, and go on home because you are healed!” [12] The man jumped up, took the mat, and pushed his way through the stunned onlookers. Then they all praised God. “We’ve never seen anything like this before!“ they exclaimed. Capernaum was the town where Jesus set up His Galilee ministry. It was His new “hometown.”  The faith of the 4 friends pleased God the Son. (Note Hebrews 11:6 — “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”) The doctrine of Jesus in the Gospel of Mark is recorded in Mark 10:45, Jesus speaking: “For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served, but to serve others and to give my life as a ransom for many.” Will we be friends, even in these days, with a fervent faith that will focus on bringing our lost and “paralyzed friends” to encounter the Savior and Healer, Jesus Christ?  Do we have faith to begin bringing our friends back to church — to our Jesus gatherings?

http://bible.com/events/48740911 Sorry I didn't send these along earlier in the week. See you in the morning!  Burning Questions: I’m a Christian but I still sin...what’s wrong with me? When Jesus sees your sin, He doesn’t condemn you; He says, “I can help with that.” Week 1:Would a loving God really send someone to Hell? Week 2:Do you actually believe the Bible is true? Today's question: I’m a Christian but I still sin...what’s wrong with me? Why this question?-We are ALL sinners. We talked about that in the first week of the series, and it's true. The Bible says, each and every one of us sins.-The good news is, through Jesus, we can be forgiven. But even after we are forgiven, struggling with sin makes many believers doubt…doubt themselves or even doubt God.-Some question whether they are really a Christian, others may feel constant guilt and shame that God is disappointed, even angry with them.-We must understand clearly what the Bible says about this question so we can experience victory and joy in our lives. So what do we do when we sin? How do you face your own sin? That’s really the important question we must answer. 1 John 1:8-9NIV 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. Here we see an incredible promise with a condition.-What is our part? "If we confess our sins" (verse 9)-What is the promise? He forgives!-There is one more part to the promise: he longs to purify us from all unrighteousness. “I’m a Christian but I still sin...what’s wrong with me?”-The answer is "NOTHING." There's nothing wrong with you.-Here’s what WOULD be wrong: to entertain sin, to dabble in it, to accept it as “normal” or to believe that God winks at it. Living this way would be to make grace cheap. Bottom Line:When Jesus sees your sin, He doesn’t condemn you;He says, “I can help with that.” As believers in Christ, we desire to expose the sin in our lives. We do not desire to hide it or explain it away.We desire to be brave enough to share our struggles with someone else.And most importantly, bringing it to the Lord. Romans 2:4NIV 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Romans 8:1NIV 1 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

Burning Questions: I am a Christian but i still sin...what's wrong with me? Words matter, we all know that. But we also recognize words can mean slightly different things to each one of us. To un-pack our question today we will look at what we mean when we say "Christian" and "sin". To begin, what do we mean when we say "I am a Christian"? What do you think you know about someone that tells you they are a Christian? How would you define what it means to be a Christian? For our understanding today, we need to see being a Christian, as being in a personal, intimate, genuine relationship with the person of Jesus Christ. This relationship changes everything! Being a Christian means... We live Transformed lives  "Whoever claims to live in Him must life as Jesus did" ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:3-6‬‬ We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did. Being a Christian means... Transformed relationships with others ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:9-10‬‬ Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble. Being a Christian means... A renewed outlook on the world. ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2:15-17‬‬ Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. What do we mean by "sin"? Greek- Hamartia- To fall short, to miss the mark. "Sin is not only wrong doing, it is wrong being" N. T. Wright ‭‭1 John‬ ‭1:8‬‬ If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. "The great swindle of shame is what keeps us away from what we so desperately need, what we long for in our heart of hearts. Forgiveness and reconciliation with Christ" ‭‭1 John‬ ‭3:4-6‬‬ Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness. But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin. No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen him or known him. We cannot with sincerity say that we are serious about our relationship with Christ, while freely choosing to sin. ‭‭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. Not only does God forgive us, but scripture also says he desires to purify, to cleanse our hearts from that sinful nature that causes us to betray him. So, I am a christian and i still sin...Whats wrong with me? - There is nothing wrong with you, that is not wrong in every single person. A sinful nature. - By Grace through Faith in Christ, He longs to forgive you and to cleanse your heart from the nature of sin.