Church of the Nazarene

http://bible.com/events/49288815 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 7 - Harrisonburg The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Today we are continuing our summer teaching series in the book of Hebrews called “Christ Above All”. Hebrews was written to a persecuted group of Christians in or around the city of Rome, and under the pressure of the moment, they were tempted to return to their Jewish roots to escape the persecution that came with the name of Jesus. But as we find in the letter itself, the author has gone to great lengths to show these weary Christians that Christ is better than anything else they can turn to- they shouldn’t give up on him. At the heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. He is the Great High Priest, the Redeemer of All Mankind, the Radiance of God’s Glory, the Author and Finisher of our Faith, etc. Hebrews 10:36-39 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For, “In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” And, “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.” But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved. “The righteous/just shall live by faith” is the Christian principle of life Habakuk 2:1-5 Romans 1:17 Galatians 3:11 FAITH ENCOMPASSES OUR WHOLE LIFE IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD Acts 16:31 - Saved by faith 1 Peter 1:5 - Kept by faith Galatians 2:20 - Living by faith 1 Peter 1:7 - Faith shall be tried many times and in many ways Isaiah 40:31 - Faith knows how to wait on the Lord 1 John 5:4 - Faith is always victorious Matthew 17:14-21 - Faith will defy reason; it can move mountains Hebrews 11:32-39 - Faith does not “face the facts”; it never gives up! Hebrews 11:1-30 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death. By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future. By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons, and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and gave instructions concerning the burial of his bones. By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no o

https://www.bible.com/events/49286741 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 7 - East Rock The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Today we are continuing our summer teaching series in the book of Hebrews called “Christ Above All”. Hebrews was written to a persecuted group of Christians in or around the city of Rome, and under the pressure of the moment, they were tempted to return to their Jewish roots to escape the persecution that came with the name of Jesus. But as we find in the letter itself, the author has gone to great lengths to show these weary Christians that Christ is better than anything else they can turn to- they shouldn’t give up on him. The message from the writer of Hebrews is loud and clear: “There’s no life in the old way of doing things. The only source of salvation is Christ alone. He is above all.” As chapter 11 opens the author is about to share the "hall of faith" to encourage his readers to persevere in the faith. Hebrews 11:1-3 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. In Chapter 10 the author has been encouraging the readers to recall how they had already persevered in the midst of hardship and trials. He is seeking to lift their spirits and spur on faithful living in the face of persecution. Coming into Chapter 11 he is about to share the Hall of Faith, names and stories of people who trusted God in the face of some really difficult circumstances. Before he begins, he wants to clear up what he means by Faith. “Faith is the confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” What we notice immediately is that biblical faith is not a flimsy hope. It’s decided and resolute choice, a firm and conscious decision to believe and trust in the reality of the Lord. And biblical faith is not a static intellectual assent, it’s not a casual “yeah I believe in God”, it’s a settled affirmation that he is LORD of YOUR life that results in action. Faith in the Lord means we live by his word and his desire, not what we see all around us in the world. And that’s the kind of lives the author is about to show us. Hebrews 11:4-12 By faith Abel brought God a better offering than Cain did. By faith he was commended as righteous, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith Abel still speaks, even though he is dead. By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: “He could not be found, because God had taken him away.” For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that is in keeping with faith. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. And by faith even Sarah, who was past childbearing age, was enabled to bear children because she considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. From the first children of Adam and Eve, through the great flood with Noah, to the calling of Abraham, the author does a sweep of biblical history to highlight the impact of faith on each persons life. Notice how many times he says “By faith” then lists the action they took. This phrase comes up again and again, that repetition is there to drive home the point- True Faith results in ACTION. All of these stories are unique and different, but they all show a life lived by faith and trust in the word of God. Hebrews 11:13-16 All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. The author wants his audience to understand- The life of faith is

http://bible.com/events/49284474 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 6 - Harrisonburg Today's speaker is Brian Charette, a part of our church staff. Brian, his wife Pam and their family have been part of our church for many years. As we enjoy the afterglow of our Independence Day celebrations, it's poignant to think of brothers and sisters around the world who don't have the freedom to meet together as we do. For those dear souls, the risks are significant. Why do they risk it? Hebrews 10:19-25 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. The imperatives of the Hebrews text: > Hold tightly to hope > Consider how we may spur one another on > Don't give up meeting together > Encourage one another Acts 2:46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, It wasn’t always easy or comfortable or safe to commit to a life in Christ - to commit to brothers and sisters in the church. There was pressure to flee, pressure to scatter…to isolate. And if your enemy has anything to do with it, there will always be pressure to give up the habit of meeting together. Hebrews 10:32-36 Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you endured in a great conflict full of suffering. Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. The central problem in the text: As some are in the habit of doing. Davis, Graham and Burge (2023) The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will it take to Bring Them Back? The more serious dechurching began in the early 1990s. What happened then? First, When the Soviet Union collapsed and that struggle ended, it became more culturally acceptable to be both American and non-Christian. Second, the rise of the religious right and its involvement in politics alienated some people, but, as is sometimes unsaid, left-wing politics alienated just as many. Finally, third, the internet. People could get what they wanted online without the bother of getting dressed and going to church. But, perhaps most importantly — people who went to church but weren’t really Christians in the biblical sense felt free to stop attending. There is likely a connection between people giving up the habit of assembling and the increase in loneliness in America. We are the most connected, yet the most isolated generation. But the importance of this lesson goes well beyond that. Consider how Jesus Himself characterized the church. Matthew 16:18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Set COTN as Your Church in this App In this Bible app, be sure to select "Set As My Church" so you get all the information and benefits of connecting to COTN with this app. See the link below for help. https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

The author of Hebrews is writing to Jewish Christians, perhaps second-generation Christians who were undergoing fierce persecution, socially and physically.   Times were hard. They were well-versed in the Old Testament and had professed their faith in Jesus Christ.    However, they were considering returning to Judaism because of persecution, false teaching, and Christ had not returned to establish His Kingdom and overthrow the Romans.    The writer’s desire is to establish the superiority of Jesus above the angels, Moses, and high priests.        Hebrews 10:19-25 (NIV)  19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,   21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God,   22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.  23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.   24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,   25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  The message of Hebrews is that Jesus is better, Christ is superior, and He is completely sufficient for our salvation.    Jesus is King of kings. He is Lord of lords. He is the Great High Priest and the sacrifice of Jesus should change the way we approach the world.     Or to put it another way, what we believe and know about Jesus should impact how we live as individuals.  Hebrews informs us how we should respond to each other during the ordinary moments of life, the good times and the not so good times.    The practical implications of following Jesus will touch on the new covenant and the way to holiness.     Verses 19 and 20, 19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,   Therefore is a connecting word.  Hebrews Chapter 10 is a connecting point of the book.    Everything from Hebrews Chapter 1 to Chapter 10, the writer has shared because of Christ's work we can have the confidence to approach God in a way that was never before thought possible.  Under the Old Covenant, in the Jewish temple, there was a veil that served as the barrier to the Holy of Holies.   The Holy of Holies was said to be where God's presence rested.  Only the high priest could enter this area to make atonement for the sins of Israel.  We can enter the holy place because of what Jesus did on the cross, by the blood of Jesus, He died and rose again, and ascended to the Father.    The tearing of the veil is profoundly significant and provides a pictorial foundation for how we can approach God today.   We can directly and boldly come before God through Jesus to receive mercy and grace. Jesus meets our needs and even identifies with our weaknesses.  Verse 21, “and since we have a great priest over the house of God,”  Jesus is the Great High Priest that is over the house of God.    We no longer need to rely on the religious practices of the Old Testament.    Every believer, through faith, can go directly to God.  Since Christ has provided us such open and free access to the Father, the writer of Hebrews says “Let’s use it!”  What joy and freedom—and yes, liberty—for the person who is in an intimate relationship with Jesus.  Verse 22, “let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.”  Let us draw near to God, is an urgent plea to enter into heart holiness, an intimate relationship with God, so that we gain a clean conscience, and walk in faith according to His plans for our lives.  Where the Old Testament ceremony and ritual could make the worshipper ceremonially clean, the blood of Christ can purify our hearts; and through Christ alone, we can approach God the Father.  As we draw near to God, we can persevere in our lives through the most difficult of times of suffering and hardship.  Verse 23, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”  The author reminds us that God made the promise and He is always faithful.    For the believer, then and now, live your faith, do it without being apologe

https://www.bible.com/events/49282508 Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 5 - Harrisonburg Hebrews 9:11-15 So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer could cleanse people’s bodies from ceremonial impurity. Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant. Jesus is our high priest. 1 Peter 1:18-19 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. Revelation 1:5 and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, The people of the Old Testament “clung to the promises of God even when they could not see how these promises would be fulfilled. They were, then, people in waiting, people on a journey toward a land they could not yet see, and everything about their approach to God carried the symbolism of the transitory. They offered imperfect sacrifices through flawed priests in a temporary and movable tabernacle that screened them from the holy presence… they were reaching toward a God they could not grasp, and now God has reached back to take their hands.” Thomas Long, Hebrews: Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching The blood of Christ purifies us. The blood of Christ saves us. 1 John 1:7 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. Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace The blood of Christ gives us hope today. Is there anything you’re holding onto today that doesn’t let your cling onto this old rugged cross? Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others!

1. What comes to your mind when I mention the word sacrifice › pause I’m an ice cream person, sacrifice for me could be letting someone have the rest of a favorite ice cream. maybe it is working long days to help provide for your families. 2. The idea of sacrifice is familiar to us as american’s. Wartime hero’s, everyday men and women who go above and beyond what could ever be asked of them. i. some of them making the ultimate sacrifice for the good of another. ii. Sacrifice is something we see tin the story of Gods people from the very beginning. The example of abraham and isaac is a powerful portrat of sacrifice. a. it could look something like this (about 4 minutes) b. (Video) sacrifice of Issac Transition 1. So, Did you catch the words spoken in the beginning of the video? › PAUSE 1. Issac speaking to Abraham, Father, we have the firewood but where is the lamb? › pause 1. Abraham speaking to Issac, The Lord will provide a sacrifice my son. a. As we continue in our series…We will see that Christ made the ultimate sacrifice, not for a country or a single person, but for every person. b. The spotless Lamb of God › PRAYER (SHORT) Welcome back to our series Christ above all Last few weeks, diving into this series Christ above all Part 1 we learned that Jesus is above all, greater than all other heavenly beings part 2 we learned that while on earth jesus learned from his suffering. made perfect thru it he became our great high priest before god the father. Part 3 we learned that The faith relationship is one of fidelity to Christ and a life bearing fruit. we can choose to walk away from such a life, walking away from Christ. Part 4 we learned that The new and better Covenant, superior to the Old, giving us access to God through Christ, the High Priest of this New Covenant. Today in part 5 we will see that the new covenant spoken about last week is made possible by the sacrifice Jesus made when on the cross. That we can be washed clean, not just on the outside but can be made free of the attitude and disposition to sin. Teaching text Hebrews 9:11-15 Hebrews 9:11–15 NLT So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a heifer could cleanse people’s bodies from ceremonial impurity. Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. That is why he is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant. Teaching text Hebrews 9:11-12 Hebrews 9:11–12 (NLT) So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever. For us to understand a little better what verse 11 and 12 are saying lets step back a few verses Hebrews 9:7–10 NLT But only the high priest ever entered the Most Holy Place, and only once a year. And he always offered blood for his own sins and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance. By these regulations the Holy Spirit revealed that the entrance to the Most Holy Place was not freely open as long as the Tabernacle and the system it represented were still in use. This is an illustration pointing to the present time. For the gifts and sacrifices that the priests offer are not able to cleanse the consciences of the people who bring them. For that old system deals only with food and drink and various cleansing ceremonies—physical regulations that were in effect only until a better system could be established. i. Did you catch what the author said in verse 8? The entrance to the presence of God was not freely open. 1. Only the High priest could enter into the presence of God, and only once a year. ii. Coming back to verse 11&12 1. Christ Jesus made a way into the very presence of God a. In the old covenant as spelled out in the book of Exodus there was a large thick curtain separating the most holy place. When Jesus shed his blood on the cross that barrier that couldn’t be crossed but once a year, and only by religious authorities, was torn in two from top to bottom. iii. In the old covenant blood sacrifice had to be offered continually. it only delt wi

This is the fourth installment in our series on Hebrews. I have to say that Hebrews, even before this series has become a favorite of mine. Hebrews Bible Study with Allen Biller - I’ve had the privilege of doing a personal Bible Study with someone in our congregation that I visit who is unable to get here to worship with us, and he recently started asking me a lot of questions about Hebrews, so we started studying it together. How to get the full benefit of the Hebrews Series - If you are wanting to really get the full benefit of this teaching series, can I suggest to you to read Hebrews in your own personal devotional time. I would read it several times because there is so much here to digest. I would get myself a cup of coffee and open your Bible and begin reading. He-brews Coffee joke - It is after all, a biblical thing to do. Even the title tells we should drink coffee when we read this book, because it says, “He Brews”. I’m sorry. Bad Dad Joke. Today we arrive at chapter 8. In rapid review: 1. We don’t know who wrote it 2. It was written to Jewish Jesus believers – those who believed Jesus was the Promised Messiah a. THE AUTHOR ASSUMES HIS READER UNDERSTANDS THE OLD TESTAMENT AND DOESN’T SAY HE IS QUOTING FROM IT. b. IN A SIMILAR FASHION, TODAY I WILL BE MENTIONING A LOT OF DETAILS ABOUT THE OLD TESTA MENT AND LIKE THE AUTHOR OF HEBREWS, I CAN’T EXPLAIN EVERY DETAIL, BUT I’M ASSUMING THAT MOST OF YOU HAVE ENOUGH BIBLE KNOWLEDGE THAT YOU WILL BE ABLE TO UNDERSTAND. 3. It quotes and alludes to the Old Testament more frequently than any other NT Book 4. The underlying theme of Hebrews is that through Jesus, everything is better. Jesus is better than, the prophets, the angels, Moses, Joshua, the High Priest, the tabernacle, the Law and sacrifices, and so much more… and the new covenant is better than the first one In week 2 of this series, Pastor Janette helped us understand the role of Jesus as our High Priest and that he was the Suffering Servant we read about in Isaiah 53. Last week, Dr. Phil Fuller encouraged us to remain faithful to God and to not be lazy about our faith, but to persevere and remain in Christ as he remains in us. Now this week, we get to dig deeper into the idea that Jesus is truly our High Priest and how he is better than any Priest of the Old Testament. In some respects, this is a Part 2 to what Pastor Janette preached on just 2 weeks ago. Jesus is our high priest, and he is the author and perfector of our faith. He is the arbiter of the new covenant which is better than the old Covenant which was given to Moses. COVENANTS We don’t use the word covenant often. Most common today: 1. A NEIGHBORHOOD COVENANT – a list of regulations that the inhabitants of that neighborhood are bound to live by. 2. A MARRIAGE COVENANT – the agreement of a man and women to live committed to each other for life, in a monogamous relationship. Sidebar: it’s the clear teaching of the Bible that the only people who can enter into this covenant is one man and one woman. EXAMPLES OF BIBLICAL COVENANTS Ever since the Fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, God has been on a mission, a pursuit to restore what mankind lost when our first parents fell into sin and rebellion against God. And so, he has entered into 7 covenants with mankind to bring about that restoration. There isn’t sufficient time to explore all 7 of them this morning, but I do want to highlight 3 of them: 1. The Adamic Covenant – right after Adam and Eve sinned and God covenants with them that he will provide a redeemer, a savior (this covenant is renewed in the Abrahamic Covenant) 2. The Mosaic Covenant – God gives Moses the Law, the Ten Commandments and many conditions for how they should conduct themselves, including the sacrificial system of lambs for the atonement of sin. 3. The Davidic Covenant – the renewal of the covenant that God would send a redeemer, a savior, and that this promised one, the Messiah would be a descendent of King David and that his throne would be established forever. COVENANTS – OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS – SHOW BIBLE DIVISIONS And now that leads us to today’s message… READ ENTIRE CHAPTER - SLIDES SLIDE Vs. 1- 2 Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, 2 and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being. This is the Main Point – I love this: There’s no guessing what the author wants to tell us.. What does “Now the main point … is this” mean. He is referring back to what has just been taught in the previous chapters. We learned that Jesus is a High Priest after the order of Melchizidek, who was a priest in Salem in the time of Abraham. Unfortunately, there isn’t time to delve into that today, but suffice it to say, that this character, though spoken only twice in the OT, looms large in the book of Hebrews and we learn that Jesus is greater than him. At the time H

https://www.bible.com/events/49277201 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 4 The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Today we are continuing our summer teaching series in the book of Hebrews called “Christ Above All”. Hebrews was written to a persecuted group of Christians in or around the city of Rome, and under the pressure of the moment, they were tempted to return to their Jewish roots to escape the persecution that came with the name of Jesus. But as we find in the letter itself, the author has gone to great lengths to show these weary Christians that Christ is better than anything else they can turn to- they shouldn’t give up on him. The message from the writer of Hebrews is loud and clear: “There’s no life in the old way of doing things. The only source of salvation is Christ alone. He is above all.” As chapter 8 begins, the writer of Hebrews is about to bring all the conversations about the priesthood of Christ to a head with a final and decisive declaration.j.The message from the writer of Hebrews is loud and clear: “There’s no life in the old way of doing things. The only source of salvation is Christ alone. He is above all.” Hebrews 8:1-2 Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being. For several chapters the author has been establishing Jesus as a better high priest through highlighting his better qualities than the earthly priesthood. And He puts the crowning point on his argument when he says “It’s true, we have such a high priest in Christ Jesus, and his is at work in heaven as we speak. And notice Jesus is not in the earthly tabernacle or temple, but in the heavenly realm. The Author is establishing the superiority of Christ’s priesthood by contrast between the earthly and the heavenly realm. Hebrews 8:3-4 Every high priest is appointed to offer both gifts and sacrifices, and so it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer. If he were on earth, he would not be a priest, for there are already priests who offer the gifts prescribed by the law. Because he wasn’t the right family line, he couldn’t have been a priest on earth. The author seems to want to get the point across, Jesus is no normal priest. Hebrews 8:5-8 They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises. For if there had been nothing wrong with that first covenant, no place would have been sought for another. But God found fault with the people and said: “The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. In verse 5, the author says that the normal priestly activities happen at a tabernacle that is only a mere copy or replica of the real thing. The point is that the tabernacle that they loved so much, while it was close, it was never the thing. The writer also says that the old covenant didn’t work and that God needed to do something new. In verse 7 the author implies that if the original covenant would have been working, there wouldn’t have been any need for something new to be done. Of course, the issue was not with the covenant itself, the problem was that God’s people couldn’t keep it. So, if God wanted relationship with his people, he was going to have to do a new thing- a new covenant. (And spoiler alert: that’s what we have in Christ Jesus.) Using the prophecy of Jeremiah, the author of Hebrews outlines the details of the new covenant. Hebrews 8:8-13 But God found fault with the people and said: “The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they did not remain faithful to my covenant, and I turned away from them, declares the Lord. This is the covenant I will establish with the people of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” By calling this covenant “new,” he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear. I

“Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are receiving the promises through faith and patience.” Hebrews 6:12 “This is to continue until all of us are united in our faith and in our knowledge about God’s Son, until we become mature, until we measure up to Christ, who is the standard.” Ephesians 4:13 “Some people once had God’s light. They experienced the heavenly gift and shared in the Holy Spirit. They experienced the goodness of God’s word and the powers of the world to come. Yet, they have deserted ⌞Christ⌟. They are crucifying the Son of God again and publicly disgracing him. Therefore, they cannot be led a second time to God.” Hebrews 6:4-6 “God blesses the earth. So rain often falls on it, and it produces useful crops for farmers. However, if the earth produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. Dear friends, even though we say these things, we are still convinced that better things are in store for you and that they will save you.” Hebrews 6:7-9 “God is fair. He won’t forget what you’ve done or the love you’ve shown for him. You helped his holy people, and you continue to help them. We want each of you to prove that you’re working hard so that you will remain confident until the end.” Hebrews 6:10-11 “Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are receiving the promises through faith and patience.” Hebrews 6:12 No lazy Christians- 5 ways to overcome 1. Pray to God 2. ask for guidance in determining your priorities 3. Establish accountability in a godly community 4. Start with small steps 5. Strive for progress not perfection Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are receiving the promises through faith and patience.” Hebrews 6:12 “This is to continue until all of us are united in our faith and in our knowledge about God’s Son, until we become mature, until we measure up to Christ, who is the standard.” Ephesians 4:13 “Some people once had God’s light. They experienced the heavenly gift and shared in the Holy Spirit. They experienced the goodness of God’s word and the powers of the world to come. Yet, they have deserted ⌞Christ⌟. They are crucifying the Son of God again and publicly disgracing him. Therefore, they cannot be led a second time to God.” Hebrews 6:4-6 “God blesses the earth. So rain often falls on it, and it produces useful crops for farmers. However, if the earth produces thorns and thistles, it is worthless and in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned. Dear friends, even though we say these things, we are still convinced that better things are in store for you and that they will save you.” Hebrews 6:7-9 “God is fair. He won’t forget what you’ve done or the love you’ve shown for him. You helped his holy people, and you continue to help them. We want each of you to prove that you’re working hard so that you will remain confident until the end.” Hebrews 6:10-11 “Then, instead of being lazy, you will imitate those who are receiving the promises through faith and patience.” Hebrews 6:12 “How little people know who think that holiness is dull. when one meets the real thing, it is irresistible.” CS Lewis No lazy Christians- 5 ways to overcome 1. Pray to God 2. ask for guidance in determining your priorities 3. Establish accountability in a godly community 4. Start with small steps 5. Strive for progress not perfection 6. Abandon yourself to Creator God6. Abandon yourself to Creator God

Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Christ is King, and is above every power, person, prophet, situation, gift, talent, etc. Over the course of their series, much of our study will focus in on Christ, why He is above all, and how our thoughts and lives should be different because of Him. The letter of Hebrews begins with that same focus, and that’s where we begin today: Three Things: 1. The author understood the Old Testament writings extremely well, and they are interwoven into the text. 2. The letter is a pastoral exhortation to the readers, written to early Christians who were being persecuted. 3. The author understood how all of Scripture points to Jesus - that Jesus is greater than the prophets, the angels, key political and spiritual leaders of Israel's history, sacrifices, etc. Jesus us greater. From the commentaries: "The Epistle to the Hebrews is one of the most carefully written books in the New Testament. The author was well informed and articulate about the Jewish Scriptures and the message about Jesus Christ." - James Earl Massey, True to our Native Land: An African American New Testament Commentary "Written to challenge a community that the author saw as being in a perilous situation... urging its readers to remain faithful to its confession... Revelation through prophets was promissory in character; it was incomplete, not faulty. By contract, God's ultimate word through the Son is unique and final." - Victor Pfitzner, Hebrews: Abingdon New Testament Commentaries Hebrews 1:1-4 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs. Hebrews 1:5-14 For to which of the angels did God ever say, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father”? Or again, “I will be his Father, and he will be my Son”? And again, when God brings his firstborn into the world, he says, “Let all God’s angels worship him.” In speaking of the angels he says, “He makes his angels spirits, and his servants flames of fire.” But about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.” He also says, “In the beginning, Lord, you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed. But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” To which of the angels did God ever say, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet”? Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation? Psalms 2:4-8 The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, “I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain.” I will proclaim the Lord’s decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession. Psalms 102:25-27 In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end. Psalms 45:6-7 Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy. Jesus is the just King of the eternal Kingdom. From the commentaries: "The idea that Jesus is the heir of all things addresses the human need to know where life is ultimately headed. Does the one who ends up with the most toys, or the most troops, really win? Does history flicker without a whimper? Do the richer keep on getting richer, and the violent always bear it away, world without end, amen? The preacher of Hebrews assures his congregation that when all is said and done, life does not belong to the demagogue, the oppressor, the tyrant, or the warrior; it becomes to Jesus Christ. The creation does not disin

Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 1 The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Jesus is above every power, every battle, even every prophet from the scriptures- Christ is above all. So, much of our study will zero in on Christ, why He is above all, and how our thoughts and lives should be different because of Him. The letter of Hebrews begins with that same focus, and that’s where we begin today- Hebrews 1:1-2 In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Without any greeting or introduction, the author dives right into the matter at hand- The supremacy of Christ. We don’t know for certain who the author of this letter is. We do know that the author is well trained in the Greek language, and he knows the Old Testament scriptures and the story of God’s people very well. The author begins by setting up a contrast, between the back then of the Old Testament, and the now of Christ. He basically says “We used to hear form God second hand through his messengers, but now we hear straight from Him through Jesus Christ, His son” In the first sentence the author is already establishing the supremacy of Christ. Hebrews 1:2-4 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. So he became as much superior to the angels as the name he has inherited is superior to theirs. Verses 1-4 are one sentence in the original Greek, and within this one packed sentence there are 7 different affirmations of the person, work, and status of Christ. “Christ is the appointed heir of all things.” Jesus is the one set in authority by the father, witnessed in the Old Testament scriptures. “Through whom also he made the universe.” Jesus Christ is an active agent with the father in the creation of the universe. “Jesus is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being.”Jesus told his disciples “If you have seen me, you have seen the father.” That’s the essence of this passage. "Jesus is the one sustaining all things by his powerful word." Jesus is leading his plan of redemption on, by his powerful word. “Christ provided purification for sins.” The blood of Christ provided a sacrifice that didn’t need to be repeated. Once and for all, Christ atoned for our sin. "He is seated at the right hand of God." Having finished his work, he is enthroned in the position of power and authority. "Jesus is above all angels and heavenly hosts." Throughout the the letter, the author will show that Christ is superior to the angels, to the old covenant and Moses himself. The letter of Hebrews declares this truth loud and clear throughout the centuries- Christ is above all. He’s above creation, He’s above the seen and unseen, He’s above every problem you can conceive of for your life. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

http://bible.com/events/49272993 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Christ Above All: Hebrews part 2 Harrisonburg What, in your life is better than Jesus? What in your life is higher than Jesus? Does anything in your mind stand above Jesus? Those are the unspoken questions asked by the Book of Hebrews. The book of Hebrews not only shows that Christ fulfills the promises of the Old Testament prophecies but also proves that Christ is better than anything established in the Jewish system. Christ above all! But the question is, is He above all for you? Hebrews 4:14-15 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 5:1-4 Every high priest is a man chosen to represent other people in their dealings with God. He presents their gifts to God and offers sacrifices for their sins. And he is able to deal gently with ignorant and wayward people because he himself is subject to the same weaknesses. That is why he must offer sacrifices for his own sins as well as theirs. And no one can become a high priest simply because he wants such an honor. He must be called by God for this work, just as Aaron was. [Image] https://imageproxy.youversionapi.com/640x640/https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/mushroom-event-images-prod/97377202-1718131434730.jpg The priest's job was to offer sacrifices to the Lord daily, and once a year, on Yom Kippur, The Day of Atonement, the High Priest would offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. He would enter the Holy Place. As he made his way to the back of the Holy Place, there was a veil, which served as a divider separating man from the presence of God (the Holy of Holies). This was the dwelling place of God. [Image] https://imageproxy.youversionapi.com/640x640/https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/mushroom-event-images-prod/97377202-1718131480776.jpg By the time the High Priest made it to the Holy of Holies, he would have gone through various cleansing. When entering the Holy of Holies, the High Priest did not wear the colorful golden garments but only the white linen garments. As the High Priest entered this most sacred room, he would first burn incense before the Ark of the covenant , filling the room with smoke. He then exited and re-entered the Holy of Holies with blood from the sacrifice, which he sprinkled on the Ark of the Covenant seven times. As Israel was not allowed to enter the Holy of Holies, the High Priest represented all of Israel, making atonement first for his own sins and then for the sins of Israel through the blood of the sacrifice. [Image] https://imageproxy.youversionapi.com/640x640/https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/mushroom-event-images-prod/97377202-1718131652915.jpg He would place the blood of the animal that was sacrificed on the lid of the ark of the covenant, called the mercy seat. This worked for a while, but God had a better plan! From the beginning of time, God had already made a way for THE HIGH PRIEST to make the ultimate sacrifice. Hebrews 5:7-10 While Jesus was here on earth, he offered prayers and pleadings, with a loud cry and tears, to the one who could rescue him from death. And God heard his prayers because of his deep reverence for God. Even though Jesus was God’s Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. In this way, God qualified him as a perfect High Priest, and he became the source of eternal salvation for all those who obey him. And God designated him to be a High Priest in the order of Melchizedek. Have you ever faced financial hardship? Remember, Jesus was born in a humble stable (Luke 2:7). Ever felt frustrated? Imagine traveling with His disciples, who often misunderstood and doubted Him (Mark 9:19). Tempted? Jesus faced Satan’s temptations in the desert, resisting every lure with the Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11). Tired? Jesus journeyed by foot, often weary and seeking rest (John 4:6). Hungry? He experienced hunger and ate with His disciples, sharing in their daily needs (Mark 11:12). Overwhelmed with sorrow? Jesus wept at the death of His friend Lazarus (John 11:35). Angry? He cleared the temple, driving out those who defiled His Father’s house (John 2:15-16). Betrayed? Judas, one of His closest followers, sold Him out for thirty pieces of silver ($260) (Matthew 26:14-16). Overwhelmed with anguish and stress? He said to His disciples before His prayer at Gethsemane, "My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death" (Matthew 26:38). Innocent and wrongly accused? Jesus stood before the council, falsely charged by those who sought His death (Mark 14:55-59). Taken advantage of and humiliated? "They stripped Him and wove thorn branches into a crown, mocking and taunting Him" (Matthew 27:28-29). Feel disappointed in someone? Consider Peter, who denied knowing Him three times despite his earlier promises of unwavering loyalty (L

https://www.bible.com/events/49271442 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Christ Above All: Hebrews Part 2 The heartbeat of the Book of Hebrews is the ultimate supremacy of Christ over all. Today we are continuing our summer teaching series in the book of Hebrews called “Christ Above All”. Hebrews was written to a persecuted group of Christians in or around the city of Rome, and under the pressure of the moment, they were tempted to return to their Jewish roots to escape the persecution that came with the name of Jesus. But as we find in the letter itself, the author has gone to great lengths to show these weary Christians that Christ is better than anything else they can turn to- they shouldn’t give up on him. One of the “Jesus is better” themes we find in the book of Hebrews is that Jesus is a better high priest. As we will see this morning, this was a game changing statement for the original audience, and for us, even if you didn’t even know you had a Great high priest. Hebrews 4:14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. The news of having a high priest might feel strange today because we don’t typically relate associate our faith and relationship with Jesus in priestly language. But, listen, for the people who first read the letter to the Hebrews, this was a much bigger deal than you could imagine. A priest in the Old Testament times was the person selected to bring offerings and sacrifices before the Lord. The priest was your spiritual quarterback…or clean-up hitter, or poll sitter…use your own analogy. In those times, you didn’t just waltz into the presence of the Lord in the temple- that would get you killed. You did NOT get to God without the priest. Period. There was only one person, the High Priest, who could do that. His job was to bring offerings and sacrifices on behalf of the people while they stayed outside. There was always a barrier between the people and God. So there had to be a go-between. That was a priest. But now, Jesus is our “go between”, our agent, our representative, before the Father. Hebrews 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Why is having Jesus as our great high priest good news? Because Jesus knows what you’re going through, he knows what it’s like to face temptation, suffering, and the trials of life. In fact, what we endure on this earth may be hard, but it’s really nothing compared to what He suffered on our behalf. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. You have a great high priest. He understands the temptations and trials of life. And he’s here to help. With Jesus as your great high priest, you can come into the presence of God with confidence that we can receive the mercy and grace that we need for this life. No religious ceremony, no burnt incense, only by the blood of Christ. Not only can we do this, in fact, we must. Hebrews 5:1-10 Every high priest is selected from among the people and is appointed to represent the people in matters related to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He is able to deal gently with those who are ignorant and are going astray, since he himself is subject to weakness. This is why he has to offer sacrifices for his own sins, as well as for the sins of the people. And no one takes this honor on himself, but he receives it when called by God, just as Aaron was. In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, “You are my Son; today I have become your Father.” And he says in another place, “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him and was designated by God to be high priest in the order of Melchizedek. Jesus didn’t win a contest or have a popular vote to become the Great High Priest, he did not take that role upon himself. He was appointed or given that position by God the Father. Just because Jesus was the Son of God, that did not exempt him from necessity of obedience. Being the son didn’t exempt him from suffering, suffering even to the point of death. But he did it; our great High Priest earned that that title. Jesus had to say no to his desire to live, his desire to side step what was ahead- he had to choose obedience, choose the way of the Father. That’s the essence of this passage. Jesus took the Master Class of obedience and completed the course perfectly and now he offers

https://www.bible.com/events/49259423 Church of the Nazarene Harrisonburg Power of Prayer Part 3 Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Isn’t it strange that we can sometimes be wrong…about OURSELVES? We sometimes don’t know ourselves as much as we think we do. 1. Sin Clouds Our Vision Psalms 119:18 Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. When we ask for God to uncover our sin, the Holy Spirit reveals the things of our life that break our Father's Heart 1 John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. Yada- The Hebrew word for "know" to have an intimate knowing relationship. This is so important because, apart from it, we can't experience real Holiness- which is, ultimately, what God wants for us. 2. When God Saturates, Holiness Radiates. Salvation and Holiness illustration Chocolate Milk Our Life- Glass of regular white milk in a glass Salvation- Chocolate syrup poured into the milk sitting at the bottom of the glass. The presence of the chocolate alters the taste of the milk a little, but one wouldn't say, "It's chocolate milk" Holiness- When the Chocolate is stirred and overwhelms the white milk. You no longer see the "regular milk," instead it's now a new creation. It has a whole new taste. When we ask God to search, test and uncover our sin, we are asking God to stir our hearts and make us Holy. David desired the presence of God and in this prayer, he sought to eradicate anything in his own life that might destroy that life-giving relationship. 3. Hidden Sin doesn't Exist There is no such thing as Hidden sin, so why keep it from the one who already knows. Asking God to examine our own heart allows us to pursue God's will. Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Bottom Line: Seeking insight from the divine within reveals the masterpiece where His will begins The more we allow God to chisel away our sin, the more we will be formed into His image, His original masterpiece. Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected]  Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others!

https://www.bible.com/events/49259592 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock The Power of Prayer Part 3 Search me, test me, uncover my sin, and lead me. Today we are continuing in our teaching series called “The power of prayer” based on Psalm 139. Prayer like we find here in Psalm 139 is very vulnerable. It’s a complete opening of ourselves to the Lord. In Psalm 139 David is inviting the Lord behind the curtain, behind what even David himself knows, to search him, to test him, to uncover hidden sin, and to lead him. As David sought the Lord in these areas, we want to do that as well. Throughout this series we are exploring and praying these four petitions: Search me, test me, uncover my sins, and lead me. Today we continue with “See if there is any offensive way in me” Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. David is inviting the Lord to come in close and have a look at his life. The word for “see” here is pretty much like it sounds. To have a look, to perceive, to look closely. To become aware or to realize. David knows he cannot see his own sin completely, but that the Lord sees perfectly. We already know the Lord sees and knows everything about us, we learn that in the beginning of this psalm. The point of this prayer is so that David will become aware, that he will have the same perspective as the Lord about things in his life. Even things he doesn’t know about yet… What David is asking to see are the “offensive ways” that are in his heart. Some translations say “wicked way” or “Grievous way.” The NASB says “See if there be any hurtful way in me.” The central idea is that anything at all that might be in David’s heart that is separating him from God, is hurtful to him in their relationship, is offensive to him and his holiness- David wants to know about it. He cared deeply about Holiness of heart and life, and David had learned the hard way that hidden sin, could cost him big time. During much of David’s life he was wildly successful in whatever he did. David was chosen by God to be king of Israel, to lead his people in the way of the Lord, to defend the nation, to see them flourish, and that he did with excellence. 2 Samuel 5:12-13 “12 Then David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. 13 After he left Hebron, David took more concubines and wives in Jerusalem, and more sons and daughters were born to him.” At what seemed like pinnacle of his success, what was once a hidden desire below the surface emerged and began to drive the decisions and actions of his life. The man after God’s own heart has become an adulterer, a murderer. He has broken God’s law, and his heart. Sin that was once well below the surface has emerged to consume David’s life. Imagine how David’s story might have been different if he had prayed Psalm 139-see if there is any offensive way in me… He could have spared himself a lot of heart ache if he had only stopped to pray: Lord, see if there’s anything in me, that’s offensive to you, anything upsetting to you. No matter how small of a deal I might think it is, I want to surrender that to you. While David’s life could have been different, the good news for you and for me is that your life CAN be different. David learned the danger of hidden sin the hard way, but we have the opportunity to learn from him, and to pray for ourselves: Lord, will you come in and have a close look, show me anything in my life that is upsetting to you, that is hurtful, that is sinful. Come and see, show me Lord, and lead me in the life everlasting. How about you today? Will you invite the Lord to uncover sin in your life? You might be wondering: What do I do when he shows me something? That’s a really important question, because you can be assured that if you pray this with sincerity, that he will show you things in your life. So, what do we do? 1 John 1:8-9 "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." If we think that it’s not possible for us to be holding sinful desires in our hearts, we are kidding ourselves. But if we will confess our sin, if when the Lord reveals something to us that is offensive to him- rather than brushing it off, rather than saying “it’s just the way I am”, or “I can’t help that”. If we will agree with him in what he finds, if we will confess that he is right, it has no place in our lives- he will forgive us. And not only will he forgive, but he will also bring healing and purity in our hearts. Praying and asking the Lord to reveal sin in our lives can be painful, can be frustrating, but it’s the only way we can ever find forgiveness and healing. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please

http://bible.com/events/49258675 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg The Power of Prayer Part 2 Search me, test me, uncover my sin, and lead me. Today we are continuing in our teaching series called “The power of prayer” based on Psalm 139. Prayer like we find here in Psalm 139 is very vulnerable. It’s a complete opening of ourselves to the Lord. In Psalm 139 David is inviting the Lord behind the curtain, behind what even David himself knows, to search him, to test him, to uncover hidden sin, and to lead him. As David sought the Lord in these areas, we want to do that as well. Throughout this series we are exploring and praying these four petitions: Search me, test me, uncover my sins, and lead me. Today we continue with “Test me and know my anxious thoughts” Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. This psalm sets a scene of tension. Evil, violent, malicious antagonists surround the psalmist and blaspheme his God. The abrupt shift in tone is jarring, but it reflects reality—especially for the leader of a nation with mixed loyalties. The psalmist, devoted to God, cannot stand those who hate God and pervert his ways. Yet he knows that he too is fallen, and in his current state he needs God’s searching light to expose the hidden darkness in his own soul. The psalmist concludes by asking God to search his heart and lead him on the right path. -(NIV Grace and Truth Study Bible) Psalm 139:23 Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about; See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong— then guide me on the road to eternal life. 1 Peter 1:7 I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it’s your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory. Know My Anxious Thoughts (thoughts that are troubling) tribos = thoughts- well-worn paths know the paths of my thoughts. Excerpt from “Am I Really Okay” by Debra Fileta “We all have automatic thoughts—things we think without a conscious decision to think those things. The thing we have to be most aware of about our automatic thoughts is that sometimes we’re not really seeing the big picture. Sometimes what we’re thinking isn’t accurate or complete. Sometimes we find ourselves thinking thoughts because it’s the easiest way to think. It’s the way we’ve always thought. It’s easy and superficial and doesn’t take too much work. When it comes to our thought process, our brain loves the path of least resistance. What I’ve done most often is the easiest thing to do again because it takes the least amount of work. Thoughts included. The problem with that response is that too often our default patterns of thinking are unhealthy and often untrue." Tests are our opportunities to trust God to help us take a different path… James 1:2-4 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. Bottom Line: We must ask for help if we want the Healer to heal. Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and for frequent updates throughout the journey. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

https://www.bible.com/events/49256128 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock The Power of Prayer Part 2 Search me, test me, uncover my sin, and lead me. Today we are continuing in our teaching series called “The power of prayer” based on Psalm 139. Prayer like we find here in Psalm 139 is very vulnerable. It’s a complete opening of ourselves to the Lord. In Psalm 139 David is inviting the Lord behind the curtain, behind what even David himself knows, to search him, to test him, to uncover hidden sin, and to lead him. As David sought the Lord in these areas, we want to do that as well. Throughout this series we are exploring and praying these four petitions: Search me, test me, uncover my sins, and lead me. Today we continue with “Test me and know my anxious thoughts” Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. The word in the original language for “test me” means to examine thoroughly, to scrutinize, to try, or to investigate. It can be used figuratively of proving precious metals such as gold or silver. David is asking for the Lord to conduct a thorough investigation, to give him an examination, a test run, to arrange his circumstances to reveal his true character and nature. Having already revealed that God is omniscient, why is David asking for a thorough evaluation from the Lord to know his thoughts again? The answer is twofold- Here in this prayer, it’s personal. David is inviting the Lord into his story. It’s no longer a long-distance relationship David wants, but close intimacy. Second, the testing will reveal to DAVID what is really in his thoughts. While the Lord already knows, David may not. So, David is signing himself up for an examination to open himself up before the Lord, to allow him behind the curtain- for what? So that his anxious thoughts would be revealed. “Anxious thoughts” here is a translation of one word in the original language, and it’s a bit difficult to articulate. It’s most literal translation is “disquieting thoughts” Disquieting is defined by Websters as: to take away the peace or tranquility. To disturb or alarm a lack of peace or tranquility- think anxiety. It suggests a lost sense of security or peace of mind. So, David is asking the Lord to test him, to arrange his life circumstances, to reveal the things that shake him up, that upset him, that disturb his peace, or make him feel insecure, things that cause him to worry or be anxious. In this verse David is praying that the Lord would test him, would put something before, him that would reveal the things that throw his mind out of order. He wants to know those default paths that his mind always takes, those thoughts that have worn and old familiar groove in his mind. Un-productive, disturbing, frustrating, ruminations-He wants them to be cut-off in his mind. To be made aware of the impact those thoughts are having in his relationship with the Lord. Test me and know my anxious thoughts. The value in praying along with David in this psalm is that he is asking the Lord to help him get in front of these thoughts- before they get out of control, and before they consume his focus.To help him realize what triggers are there, what’s really happening behind those thoughts, to help him recognize what’s happening in this thinking before it gets to far. Here’s the thing about the anxious thoughts. When our minds go into this spiral, without even knowing it, we are shifting our focus away from the Lord and onto our circumstances. We are turning in on ourselves through our own thinking, and that’s a fruitless and hopeless endeavor. When that happens, we cannot hear the Lord’s voice, we don’t consider the truth and promises of his word. We are consumed in our own head- and our thoughts hold us captive. That may be for a few minutes, or a few hours or days. Perhaps it even lasts for years. As nervous as it might make us to ask the Lord to test us, it might just be how he frees us from the prison of our thoughts. James 1:2-5 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. 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. Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. We began last week with the simple prayer “Search me, God, and know my heart." We invited the Lord to explore the shadowy depths of our inner heart and life- places that only he can go. Today, we want to open up our thinking to him- Not just that he would explore our mind- but that he would reveal the real condition and health of our thoughts. Test me and know my a

http://bible.com/events/49254919 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg The Power of Prayer Search me, test me, uncover my sin, and lead me. Today we are beginning a new teaching series titled “Power of Prayer.” Our series is based out of Psalm 139, where David prays four very specific petitions asking the Lord to do a deep and thorough search of his heart and inner life. Throughout this series, that’s our desire too. Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. SEARCH ME, AND KNOW MY HEART C.S. Lewis We must lay before him what is in us; not what ought to be in us. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? John Wesley There is nothing so false and deceitful as the heart of man; deceitful in its apprehensions of things, in the hopes and promises which it nourishes, in the assurances that it gives us . . . One commentary notes: David came to the God of perfect knowledge and constant presence knowing He was also a God of love, and could be trusted to search him and to know him at the deepest levels. This is also an admission that God knew David better than David knew himself, and that he needed God to search and know him. It is not the challenge of a person protesting his innocence or righteousness. Rather it is the confession of one who has been in the presence of the Lord and is convicted of his own sinfulness. He realizes that he is not cognizant of all his sins and wants the Lord to point them out so they can be dealt with effectively. The searching isn’t fun, but the surgeon is faithful Warren Wiersbe We must never dispute with God, for He loves us and wants only the very best for us. Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and for frequent updates throughout the journey. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

https://www.bible.com/events/49253188 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock The Power of Prayer Search me, test me, uncover my sin, and lead me. Today we are beginning a new teaching series called “The power of prayer.” Our series is based out of Psalm 139, where David prays 4 very specific petitions asking the Lord to do a deep and thorough search of his heart and inner life- Throughout this series, that’s our desire too. Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Search me, test me, uncover my sins, and lead me. David is inviting the Lord to go beyond the normal places, to the deep places of his very heart. Prayer like this is vulnerable. It’s a complete opening of ourselves to the Lord. To allow him access not just to the places we know, to places we might be comfortable with, but beyond, to the places that only he can know. And that can cause serious disruptions in our relationship with the Lord. Just ask Peter, one of Jesus’ closest friends. Mark 14:27-31 “You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written: “ ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.” Peter declared, “Even if all fall away, I will not.” “Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.” But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same. Can you imagine the shock of these words? They had been together for 3 years now. Seen and done some amazing things. Now, Jesus turns to them and says “Boys, you are about to walk out on me. Every one of you” "No way Jesus- not gonna happen. I would never do that, even if everyone else does.” The Apostle Peter cannot see it, he doesnt know that about himself. You probably already know the rest of the story. Peter really didn’t know himself as well as he thought, did he? He would deny Jesus, not just once, but three times. Cussing, fussing, and swearing that he had never even met Jesus. It turns out Jesus knew Peter's heart better than he did, and he knows your heart better than you do. Just like Peter struggled to see beyond his own perception of his loyalty, we too struggle to see and know what lays deep within our hearts. In Psalm 139 David is inviting the Lord behind the curtain, behind what even David himself knows, to search him, to test him, to uncover hidden sin, and to lead him. As David sought the Lord in these areas, we want to do that as well. Throughout this series we want to explore the four prayers: Search me, test me, uncover my sins, and lead me. Before we dive right into verses 23 and 24, we need to journey with David through the rest of the Psalm. There we find David’s heart and mind turning to the Lord in worship and praise, which is a critical part of our journey in seeking to engage God through prayer. Psalms 139:1-6 You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. The text opens examining God’s limitless knowledge. This attribute of God is often called his omniscience. This simply means there is nothing outside of God’s knowledge, there is no thought he doesn’t know, no action he isn’t aware of, no word spoken he hasn’t heard, even before its uttered. God’s knowledge of you goes far beyond your reputation or your actions- he knows your very thoughts. As we begin to think about opening ourselves up to the Lord, there is nothing he doesn’t already know- nothing will surprise him. God knows us better than we know ourselves. Psalms 139:7-12 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. David here recognizes God limitless presence- His omnipotence. Not only does the Lord know everything in his omniscience, but he is also everywhere in omnipotence. That means there is nowhere you can go to escape God’s presence. That’s a great comfort for those who are seeking him, but it’s a great challenge to those who think they can hide form the Lord. Everyone in Scripture who tries to hide from the Lord, fails. And you can’t do it either. Psalms 139:13-16 For y

http://bible.com/events/49251326 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Holiness as Wholeness, Part 4 Holiness is living the abundant life. Holiness as Wholeness The idea behind this teaching series is that Holiness, rather than being a heavy burden of impossibility placed on believers, is a healing and freeing effect of Christ’s sacrifice. Holiness is good for us; it restores to us the design of God for our lives. The enemy wants us to believe it is a chain placed upon us, so we dread its requirements so that we’ll turn our back on it or roll our eyes at it. But, in essence, holiness brings all that we really want into our lives. It makes us whole with all of the attendant beauty of that idea. The Nazarene understanding of Christian Holiness or Entire Sanctification is freeing, not binding. Through this sermon series then, we want to see Holiness as Wholeness. James Pedlar …God’s mission is not only for those outside the church but for believers as well, who are currently experiencing the ongoing healing work of God in their lives. In other words, mission is not only “outreach” but also includes the corporate life of the church. Cultivating holiness, spurring one another on in our response to God’s ongoing work in our lives, teaching, catechizing, discipling – all these things which help to form people as disciples are part of the church’s mission. John 10:9-10 I am the gate; whoever enters through 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 Jesus told this simple story, but they had no idea what he was talking about. So he tried again. “I’ll be explicit, then. I am the Gate for the sheep. All those others are up to no good—sheep rustlers, every one of them. But the sheep didn’t listen to them. I am the Gate. Anyone who goes through me will be cared for—will freely go in and out, and find pasture. A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. John 10:9-10 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. This word “abundant” in the Greek is perisson: Meaning “exceedingly, very highly, beyond measure, more, superfluous, a quantity so abundant as to be considerably more than what one would expect or anticipate.” Oswald Chambers We must never measure our spiritual capacity on the basis of our education or our intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured on the basis of the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, we will falsely accuse Him as the servant falsely accused his master when he said, “You expect more of me than you gave me the power to do. You demand too much of me, and I cannot stand true to you here where you have placed me.” When it is a question of God’s Almighty Spirit, never say, “I can’t.” Never allow the limitation of your own natural ability to enter into the matter. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be exhibited in us Change (transformation) is not the absence of temptations, it is holiness in the midst of temptation. THE WAY OF CHRIST IS THE ABUNDANT LIFE C.S. Lewis - Mere Christianity “Give up yourself, and you will find your real self. Lose your life and you will save it. Submit to death, death of your ambitions and favorite wishes every day and death of your whole body in the end: submit with every fiber of your being, and you will find eternal life. Keep back nothing. Nothing that you have not given away will be really yours. Nothing in you that has not died will ever be raised from the dead. Look for yourself, and you will find in the long run only hatred, loneliness, despair, rage, ruin, and decay. But look for Christ and you will find Him, and with Him everything else thrown in.” ONCE GOD SETS YOU FREE YOU HAVE TO DECIDE TO LIVE FREE! John 14:6a Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. Holiness and the Church of the Nazarene Former Nazarene General Superintendent Dr. J.K. Warrick discusses the distinctiveness of the Nazarene Church with a focus on Holiness. Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and for frequent updates throughout the journey. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple proc

https://www.bible.com/events/49249500 Church of the Nazarene - East Rock Holiness as Wholeness, Part 4 Holiness is living the abundant life. Holiness as Wholeness The idea behind this teaching series is that Holiness, rather than being a heavy burden of impossibility placed on believers, is a healing and freeing effect of Christ’s sacrifice. Holiness is good for us; it restores to us the design of God for our lives. The enemy wants us to believe it is a chain placed upon us, so we dread its requirements so that we’ll turn our back on it or roll our eyes at it. But, in essence, holiness brings all that we really want into our lives. It makes us whole with all of the attendant beauty of that idea. Holiness is not a requirement as much as it is a remedy. The Nazarene understanding of Christian Holiness or Entire Sanctification is freeing, not binding. Through this sermon series then, we want to see Holiness as Wholeness. In John 10:10 Jesus says: “10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” For Jesus, the good life is abundant, life to the full. And notably, it’s not something we acquire, it’s not something we can work for, it’s the life we receive from Him. If Jesus brings us good and abundant life, why doesn’t my life with him seem more, abundant? Why doesn’t life seem more, I don’t know, “good”? So often our experience is one of frustration, guilt, or shame because we can’t seem to pull it together, a seemingly unending cycle of failure and forgiveness, never seeing the victory in our lives. Rather than full of life, it’s just full of frustration. I would propose to you today that the abundant life Jesus came to bring, only comes on the other side of our full surrender to him. The truth is, “abundance” in Christ is not about gathering it all in, but giving it all up. There is great abundance in… SURRENDER. John 10:9-10 I am the gate; whoever enters through 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. Those who enter life with Christ are first of all, saved. Safe from the enemy. They are rescued and redeemed. They have freedom- to come and go- to live life. Jesus here isn’t promising material prosperity. iii.He is saying that "in life with me, I will see to all your needs". Perhaps not your wants, but you will know my hand in having what you need. It’s a life full of freedom, marked by his presence, no matter what comes our way. This is the good life that Christ offers. Notice the contrast- with the enemy/the thief “The thief only comes to steal, to kill, and destroy.” The immediate context of this passage, the thief is likely pointing back to those false messengers and leaders that Jesus referred to in verse 8- but it does not fail to include the enemy of or souls- the devil himself. He comes offering some sort of distorted life, but his motives are not pure. 1.He is greedy, selfish, and self-serving. 2.The thief, always takes and never gives. 3.The thief is full of lies and deceit. he confuses us about what a “good life” even is. 4. And he ultimately destroys. The thief came to destroy, Christ has come that we might have life, and that to the full. The life that he came to give is abundant, full, offering contentment. The word for to the full or abundantly, it means a super-abundance, overflowing with more than what is needed or expected. It’s not merely filling the jar to the top; it’s filling it to overflowing. That’s the picture of the life that Christ came to give. We have forgiveness of sins, freedom from shame and guilt. We have belonging in the family of God; we have a calling to take part in his kingdom work. His life is healing, restoring, and transforming- and most of all, it’s in an abundance. "I have come that they may have life, and that to the full." here’s the truth for us today- the fullness of the life Christ came to give cannot be realized in our lives as long as we are in control. Holiness is giving God full control of our lives. That’s how we can know the good life. As long as we are still calling the shots, telling the Lord what we will and will not do or agree with- we are living our lives, with Jesus as an add-on. And that can never be a truly good life… The abundant and holy life comes when we surrender our lives completely to God and begin living HIS life. On this journey, there are many critical moments, decision points along the way of sanctification. But there is coming a crisis moment in your life where you will have to decide. Am I going to give God control of my life- or am I going to keep control myself? The abundant and holy life that Christ came to offer cannot be found by avoiding that crisis- we must go through it. That’s holiness friends. That’s what experiencing life to the fullest is all about. The decision to say YES to Christ will change the trajectory of your

http://bible.com/events/49247921 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Holiness as Wholeness, Part 2/3 Holiness as Wholeness The idea behind this new teaching series is that Holiness, rather than being a heavy burden of impossibility placed on believers, is a healing and freeing effect of Christ’s sacrifice. Holiness is good for us; it restores to us the design of God for our lives. The enemy wants us to believe it is a chain placed upon us, so we dread its requirements so that we’ll turn our back on it or roll our eyes at it. But, in essence, holiness brings all that we really want into our lives. It makes us whole with all of the attendant beauty of that idea. Holiness is not a requirement as much as it is a remedy. The Nazarene understanding of Christian Holiness or Entire Sanctification is freeing, not binding. Through this sermon series then, we want to see Holiness as Wholeness. Holiness as wholeness means that the sanctifying work of God in the pursuit of holiness in our lives doesn’t just allow us to be in relationship with God, but cleanses, refreshes and heals our body and our mind... The path of holiness is one that compels us to be in unity. Genesis 1:26-28 Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. They will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the wild animals on the earth, and the small animals that scurry along the ground.” So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.” To be fully human is to be in holy relationship with God, others, oneself, and all of creation. Original Sin: We believe that original sin... is that corruption of the nature of all the offspring of Adam by reason of which everyone is very far gone from original righteousness or the pure state of our first parents at the time of their creation, is averse to God, is without spiritual life, and inclined to evil, and that continually... Personal Sin: We believe that... personal sin is a voluntary violation of a known law of God by a morally responsible person... we believe that personal sin is primarily and essentially a violation of the law of love... - Church of the Nazarene, Articles of Faith Sin always results in death. Romans 3:23-24 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Sin can be attractive, but it is always destructive. Sin will take your further than you were ever meant to go, and further than you may ever intend to go! It’s too great of a burden for us to hold. Genesis 4:6-9 Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” Now Cain said to his brother Abel, “Let’s go out to the field.” While they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” “I don’t know,” he replied. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Sin leads to death, but holiness leads to life. Romans 6:19-23 Because of the weakness of your human nature, I am using the illustration of slavery to help you understand all this. Previously, you let yourselves be slaves to impurity and lawlessness, which led ever deeper into sin. Now you must give yourselves to be slaves to righteous living so that you will become holy. When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the obligation to do right. And what was the result? You are now ashamed of the things you used to do, things that end in eternal doom. But now you are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. Now you do those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Sanctification is God’s response to sin. Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and for frequent updates throughout the journey. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

Church of the Nazarene - East Rock https://www.bible.com/events/49245979 Holiness as Wholeness, Part 3 Holiness as Wholeness The idea behind this teaching series is that Holiness, rather than being a heavy burden of impossibility placed on believers, is a healing and freeing effect of Christ’s sacrifice. Holiness is good for us; it restores to us the design of God for our lives. The enemy wants us to believe it is a chain placed upon us, so we dread its requirements so that we’ll turn our back on it or roll our eyes at it. But, in essence, holiness brings all that we really want into our lives. It makes us whole with all of the attendant beauty of that idea. Holiness is not a requirement as much as it is a remedy. The Nazarene understanding of Christian Holiness or Entire Sanctification is freeing, not binding. Through this sermon series then, we want to see Holiness as Wholeness. Often we can struggle to see what the big deal is about a little sin. "It’s fine, God isn’t THAT concerned about it." We imagine that we have control over it, that we can call the shots, quit when we want, that it’s not a big deal. But that’s not what the bible says about sin. Jesus said “I tell you the truth, everyone who commits sin, is a slave to sin.” Paul says in Romans 6 “The wages of Sin is Death”… On our own we tend to have a very different and often less severe of an outlook about sin than what the bible gives. As we continue with part 3 of our series, we will seek to understand the serious and destructive nature of sin in our lives. Without a proper understanding of sin, it is easy to miss the urgency of seeking holiness. The great lie of sin is that it is harmless, or even that the pleasure it can sometimes bring will actually help us. Whether we would say it or not, when we choose sin, we are saying that we know better than God. Romans 6:19 I am using an example from everyday life because of your human limitations. Just as you used to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness. Paul is referencing back to a metaphor he began in verse 16 of being a slave. For the Apostle Paul, we only have two choices. We are either offering ourselves to God leading to righteousness or we are offering ourselves as slaves to sin leading to death. There is no spiritually neutral position. Every single person you meet, including yourself, is serving one of these two- Either God or sin- there is no option C. Notice that Paul says you USED to offer yourselves as slaves to impurity. Paul is presenting a picture of the Pre-Christ life, and in so doing, he gives us the real true nature of sin. He says “You offered yourself” Sin was and is a choice. It’s a conscious decision. It doesn’t just happen; we don’t just end up there. We choose it, we go along with it. “You offered yourself as slaves” Sin has an imprisoning, enslaving power over us. So often we think sin will bring us freedom and autonomy, but it really brings enslavement and bondage. The exact opposite of what it promises. “Slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness” The idea of “ever-increasing wickedness” describes the insidious, cumulative impact of sin, like a cancer growing within on its way to total destruction. The old saying “Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay and cost you more than you want to pay.” It’s true, because sin is never static. It’s never neutral. It’s always growing, always grasping for more, always binding and blinding us to its real nature. “So now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness” Christ has come and broken the power of sin, he has given us freedom, and as Christians we are to respond. Just as we used to sign up for sin, we need to sign on to righteousness, to saying yes to Christ. Rather than leading to death, choosing to offer ourselves as slaves to God leads to holiness Romans 6:20-21 When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! As you think about your life before Christ, what benefits did you reap from it? How did that go for you? Paul is inviting us to remember… Paul has gone to great lengths illustrating the destructive enslaving power of sin that used to dominate our old life. He has pointed to Christ and the forgiveness and life we can have in him. He has brought up old memories for us of sin form our old life. We literally have experienced everything he’s talking about. But all of that teaching, all of that personal experience, and yet, so often we will underestimate the seriousness of sin in our lives, we invite it back into our lives. We still undersell it, minimize it, ignore it, we dabble with it, we put off dealing with it until later. Rather than choosing to pursue holiness with as much fervor as we used to pursue sin,

http://bible.com/events/49241752 The Call Who are we called to be? As the church, as those who claim to love Jesus, to follow Him, to trust Him...who are we called to be? To those that we like and those that we don’t? Those who look like us, speak the same language, and those who don’t? To our neighbors and those on the other side of town, to those on the other side of the world? The picture this morning begins with two individuals who knew Jesus very well, in fact, Jesus chose them each specifically. Of all the people who Jesus would have invited to be his disciples, he chose these two. And yet their inclusion and participation in the kingdom of God speaks volumes to us today. Matthew 10:1-4 Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness. These are the names of the twelve apostles: first, Simon (who is called Peter) and his brother Andrew; James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. Zealots were an aggressive political party who had such a deep concern for the Jewish people that they would despise anyone who sought peace with Rome or tolerated them in any way. They fiercely opposed anything and anyone that diminished their culture, religion or their desire for self-government. Among the zealots there were those extremists who turned to terrorism and assassination. This group became known as the Sicarii or ‘the dagger men’. They were known for their hidden daggers ready to strike down anyone friendly to Rome. And yet Jesus chooses one of them? A zealot? Jesus Calls Simon 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.” Of all the people Jesus could choose, he chose him? Matthew, a tax collector? Tax collectors were hated by everyone. The Jews, their own people, reviled them because they collaborated with the enemy. They worked for Rome and carried out their orders. But even worse, tax collectors like Matthew gained wealth by padding their own pockets, demanding more than what was due, and keeping it for themselves. They represented the enemy, and got rich by over-taxing their own people. And yet Jesus chooses him, “follow me”. Jesus Calls Matthew So why in the world would Jesus choose both of them to be His followers? First, He loved them. Jesus had a way of seeing through the exterior, even when it was controversial or unpopular. He demonstrated the love of God – He IS the love of God. But there's an even more compelling reason: why did Jesus choose Matthew, Simon, among others? Why did he choose two individuals who clearly stood in opposition to one another? To demonstrate the incredible power of this prayer in action: ‘May they be one, Father. Make them one’ 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. Jesus prays that these disciples, this rag tag group, which included two of the more opposite and different people you could imagine, would be ONE. And He prays the same for us today..."that ALL of them would be one" Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and for frequent updates throughout the journey. Giving at COTN If you ever have questions or need help with online giving, please let us know: [email protected] Thank you for your partnership in building the Kingdom of Christ as you impact others! Establish COTN as Your Church on the App In this YouVersion Bible app, we encourage you to set up COTN as your church. It's a simple process and will open up opportunities to stay connected to us! https://help.youversion.com/l/en/article/y03uerubo8-mychurch

Today we are on week two of our series Holiness as Wholeness. The Bible tells us that we were created in God’s image. We are called to be holy because God is holy. We need to not only reflect the heart of God as far as loving people, but also, we need to reflect the character of God and have the mind of Christ pursuing holy character and behavior. 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24 12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil. 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. Today’s message is on Holiness. Let me say Verse 23 again: 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

http://bible.com/events/49238706 Church of the Nazarene - Harrisonburg Holiness as Wholeness, Part 1 Holiness as Wholeness The idea behind this new teaching series is that Holiness, rather than being a heavy burden of impossibility placed on believers, is a healing and freeing effect of Christ’s sacrifice. Holiness is good for us; it restores to us the design of God for our lives. The enemy wants us to believe it is a chain placed upon us, so we dread its requirements so that we’ll turn our back on it or roll our eyes at it. But, in essence, holiness brings all that we really want into our lives. It makes us whole with all of the attendant beauty of that idea. Holiness is not a requirement as much as it is a remedy. The Nazarene understanding of Christian Holiness or Entire Sanctification is freeing, not binding. Through this sermon series then, we want to see Holiness as Wholeness. When you decided to attend Church of the Nazarene this morning, you decided to attend a church born of what's referred to as the Wesleyan or Holiness tradition. "Wesleyan" because of the influence of the great church father John Wesley, and "Holiness" because the pursuit of a real, deep genuine (not generic) relationship with Christ is at the heart of our purpose together. 1 Peter 1:13-16 Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 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.” Hebrews 12:14-15 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. "Holiness is a word that can make us feel uneasy. It seems lofty, threatening, alien. We instinctively sense that God’s holiness has dangerous overtones. His purity calls our sinful attachments into question, demanding that we forsake them in order to enjoy the greatest of all goods—belonging to a God of infinite love and power. To come casually with our hearts grasping tightly to the sins we cherish or to come lightly as though they are no big deal, might be like throwing ourselves onto a roaring fire with the expectation we will not perish. How, then, can we—sinful and broken human beings—hope to come into the presence of a holy God and survive the experience?" Ann Spangler Why do some struggle with the concept of Holiness? "I believe most think it's impossible to be holy so they are intimidated by the word. But we need to understand that any holiness we have is not from us, but God working in and through us. Impossible for us? Yes. For God working in us? No." "I attend a holiness believing denomination because I was tired of being frustrated trying to live a holy life without understanding full surrender, trying to live in my own strength and hearing 'you can try, you can try really hard, but you can't do it' by other denominational teachings. It is scary when one tries to live a holy life in their own strength, and then it truly becomes frustrating, trying but just not able to do it." "I believe that the concept of holiness often feels distant because it's mistakenly equated with perfection. However, true holiness isn't about flawlessness but about aligning ourselves with God's purpose. Similarly, many misconstrue sin as mere error, when in reality, it's a conscious choice. While perfection remains unattainable in our earthly journey, perfection in Christ entails fulfilling our intended purpose without succumbing to sin. It's not about flawlessness, but about living without the stain of sin." "And here in Holiness is the remedy for all our disease, all the corruption of our nature." John Wesley "How little people know who think that holiness is dull. When one meets real thing, it is irresistible." C.S. Lewis "Fear of God is the blush upon the face of holiness enhancing its beauty." C.H. Spurgeon Holiness as wholeness means that the sanctifying work of God in the pursuit of holiness in our lives doesn’t just allow us to be in relationship with Him, but cleanses, refreshes and heals our body and our mind. Romans 7:24-25 What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. Holiness and the Church of the Nazarene Former Nazarene General Superintendent Dr. J.K. Warrick discusses the distinctiveness of the Nazarene Church with a focus on Holiness. Updates on the new Waynesboro campus God is inviting us to step out in faith to plant a Spanish-speaking campus in the Waynesboro community. Join us on the journey! Check out the link below for more information and