Coastal Church Podcast

<p>In the lower story Exodus gives us a spiritual lesson of trusting the one true God and not compromising with the world. In the upper story, we see God's plan of deliverance from the power of darkness through Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>The account of Joseph gives us a spiritual lesson of destiny in the lower story and the upper story reveals God's plan for mankind with the amazing parallels between Joseph and Jesus.</p>

<p>Despite the spiritual virus of sin that entered into the world, God didn’t give up on humankind. His attention on the upper story was focused on a plan of restoration. He desired a people to reflect His goodness, and plan to redeem the world. He chose one man, Abraham, a man of faith, to be the patriarch of that special nation.</p>

<p>The beginning of our journey through The Story of the Bible is like the beginning of an action-packed movie. If you miss the opening minutes of a movie with its fast-paced scenes, you will not understand the rest of the story.</p>

<p>Pastor Dave explains how and why we will be studying through the book "The Story".</p>

<p>There is a day coming when there will be no more war, death, disease and trouble. It is a day of ultimate peace that the believer can look forward to. The Apostle Paul encourages us "there's far more to life for us. We're citizens of high heaven! We're waiting the arrival of the Savior, the Master, Jesus Christ."</p>

<p>Pastor Dave's message from the Story of Christmas Production.</p>

<p>When the angels announced "peace on earth" it did not mean that there would be no more conflict or war on earth; that certainly has not been the case. They declared a peace in the heart that was to be enjoyed by all those who choose to live in harmony with God.</p>

<p>Peace can be described as a state of harmony, serenity, tranquility and order. This is possible when we have peace with God and the peace of God.</p>

<p>There is a healthy fear (reverence, respect or awe) of the Lord that leads to blessings, which leads to generosity, which leads to no fear.</p>

<p>Andy Hawthorne, guest speaker from Manchester, UK, shares about the authority we have in Christ to preach, heal, confront powers of darkness and to forgive sins in Jesus name.</p>

<p>In the classic story of Peter walking on water, we find insight on how to overcome the grip of fear.</p>

<p>When trouble comes and we are afraid, God provides a place of refuge where we can find safety.</p>

<p>Today we live in a changing world marked by terrorism, the threat of disease, and a host of other fears. Experiencing the fear factor is normal; however, God shows us we do not need to be paralyzed by fear.</p>

<p>God shows kindness to us because of the covenant Christ made for us. Because of this, God extends to us an invitation to enjoy all the benefits of the covenant.</p>

<p>Your faith is very powerful and can change your family scenario. Pastor Dave and Cheryl Koop look at different scenarios and unpack how as family members, it impacts others when we've made a decision to follow Christ.</p>

<p>Those who follow Christ can be spotted for having an attitude of giving - with thanks.</p>

<p>Jesus made it clear that to follow Him would mean trusting Him to be Lord over every aspect of our lives. Surrendering our finances can be the most challenging and controversial.</p>

<p>Certain characteristics are common in all dedicated followers, including followers of Jesus.</p>

<p>We want to follow Jesus, but where is He leading?</p>

<p>Over 2000 years ago, Jesus made this bold statement to 12 disciples and it changed the world. What does it mean to truly follow Him?</p>

<p>Generosity is based on contentment and strength in God. It is also an encouragement to others and an investment in the future; generosity is connected to the promise of God's supply.</p>

<p>The Lord has provided us with spiritual resources that we can draw on to stand firm in this life. Like any asset, it is important we keep an eye on these valuables.</p>

<p>Ultimately there are two controlling ambitions: one is for our own glory; the other is for God's glory.</p>

<p>Self-confidence is limited by your strength. God-confidence is limited by God's strength.</p>