on the Cornerstone - Cornerstone Community Church

A Prophetic PeopleLuke 1:67-80Zacharias’ ProphecyJohn the Baptist - “Jehovah is gracious”“Behold, I am going to send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and terrible day of the LORD. He will restore the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, so that I will not come and smite the land with a curse.” Malachi 4:5-6You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth. Revelation 5:10Prophetic UtterancesThe angels (messengers)Luke 1:11-17; Luke 1:30-37; Matthew 1:20-25Elizabeth – Luke 1:42Mary – Luke 1:46-55 The MagnificatSimeon – Luke 2:29-35Anna - Luke 2:36-38And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people, and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of David His servant— As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from of old— Salvation from our enemies, and from the hand of all who hate us; to show mercy toward our fathers, and to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to Abraham our father, to grant us that we, being rescued from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all our days. Luke 1:67-7And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare His ways; to give to His people the knowledge of salvation By the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us, to shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:76-7We are a Prophetic People1 Corinthians 8:2-3Romans 7:182 Timothy 1:12Romans 8:282 Corinthians 5:1Jesus did not die to make bad men good, but to make dead men alive!Christmas is an indictment before it is a delight.

Blessed are Those Who BelieveLuke 1:45And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord. Luke 1:45Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the place of the dead. The third day He arose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.Jesus did not die to make bad men good, but to make dead men alive!How blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered! How blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit! Psalm 32:1-2BondslavesZacharias and Elizabeth Mary – Luke 1:26-38 “Be it done unto me according to Your Word.”Joseph – Matthew 1:18-25 “he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.”For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:6-7The MagnificatMary’s hymn of praise to the Lord.Luke 1:46-55

Nothing Is Impossible With GodLuke 1:37For nothing will be impossible with God. Luke 1:37

Gospel Of Grace - Part 14Boast In The LordGalatians 6:11-18Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Boasting in the flesh!Galatians 6:12-13 = motiveThose who desire to make a good showing in the flesh try to compel you to be circumcised, simply so that they will not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For those who are circumcised do not even keep the Law themselves, but they desire to have you circumcised so that they may boast in your flesh.What is my motive?To avoid ridicule in our service for Christ?To take pride in what impresses others?Matthew 23:1-12But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Galatians 6:11 Corinthians 1:20-251 Corinthians 2:1-2Romans 1:16-1I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 2:2Grace people boast in Jesus!Ephesians 2:8-10Matthew 6:33Psalm 86:12-131 Corinthians 6:19-20Matthew 5:161 Peter 4:16

Gospel Of Grace - Part 13Thanksgiving In The Household of FaithGalatians 6:6-10Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Galatians 6Forgiveness breaks the cycle of revengeRepentance opens the door for restorationRestoration is God’s work of salvationWe are empowered to:    refuse revenge—risk reconciliation—and restore relationshipsThe one who is taught the word is to share all good things with the one who teaches him. Galatians 6:6The Tithe (Tenth)The first fruit offerings – the 1st 10%Malachi 3:8-121 Corinthians 16:22 Corinthians 9:6-7Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7-4 Laws of Sowing & ReapingFruit    The fruit of our actions won’t always come quickly.  But, all things remaining equal, the produce will come eventually!Planting    The harvest will be what was    sown!MultiplicationThe harvest will be more than was planted!ActionEven though yesterday’s actions are irreversible, tomorrow’s are not!Don’t Lose HeartRestore gentlyWatch yourselfCarry each others burdensTest your own actionsShare good things with your teacherDon’t be deceived – God is not mocked – sow/reapDo good to all, especially the household of faith

Practice Your Testimony1 Peter 3:15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 1 Peter 3:15 NKJVInstead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. 1 Peter 3:15 NLTBe ReadyHopeSanctify / Honor / WorshipMeekness / CourtesyWho AsksWe Are All DifferentKnow Your AudienceBe PreparedYou Have More Than OneGive The Holy Spirit RoomHow To Share Your TestimonyC. S. Lewis InstituteBefore, How, and AfterChoose Your FormatWrite It OutLeading Into Your TestimonyThe Close

Gospel Of Grace - Part 12RestorationGalatians 6:1-5Bear One Another’s BurdensGrace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Galatians 6Forgiveness breaks the cycle of revengeRepentance opens the door for restorationRestoration is God’s work of salvationWe are empowered to:    refuse revenge—risk reconciliation—and restore relationshipsBrethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason for boasting in regard to himself alone, and not in regard to another. For each one will bear his own load. Galatians 6:1-5“But for the grace of God Go I”Jesus’ ExhortationsLuke 6:35-38Matthew 7:1-6

Gospel Of Grace - Part 11Live By The SpiritIf we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:25-26Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5GalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A narrative — personal Chapters 3 & 4 – A discussion — doctrinalChapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation — practicalGalatians 6Forgiveness breaks the cycle of revengeRepentance opens the door for restorationRestoration is God’s work of salvationWe are empowered to: refuse revenge—risk reconciliation—and restore relationshipsHow To be Miserable!Think about yourself. Talk about yourself.Use "I" as often as possible. Mirror yourself continually in the opinion of others. Listen greedily to what people say about you. Expect to be appreciated. Be suspicious. Be jealous and envious.Be sensitive to slights. Never forgive a criticism. Trust nobody but yourself. Insist on consideration and respect. Demand agreement with your own views on everything. Sulk if people are not grateful to you for favors shown them. Never forget a service you have rendered. Shirk your duties if you can. Do as little as possible for others.

The Divine VisionActs 26:1-20Our GodThe God of HistoryThe God of the CovenantThe God of BlessingThe God of MercyThe God of MissionBlessed to be a blessing!The Biblical Mandate: The non-negotiable responsibility binding on all those who receive the  benefits of God’s covenant with Abraham, to share those same benefits with the other families (nations) of the earth.As the Father sent Jesus so He sends us!Why, to open their eyes.So that they may turn from darkness to lightTo tur from the dominion of Satan to GodSo that they may receive forgiveness of sinsSo that they may receive an inheritance To be among those who have been sanctified by faith in JesusGod’s Book The Basis of MissionGod’s PurposeGod’s PlanGod’s PeopleGod’s CovenantGod’s MessiahGod’s MessengerGod’s Message

Umbrella FaithFaith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1And 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. Hebrews 11:6“If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.  Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:23-24The Faith of the CenturionMatthew 8:5-13

EternityEcclesiastes 3:11EvidenceTruth ProjectHypothesisTheory LawEvolutionI do not have enough faith to believe that there is not a God.But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Romans 1:18-20Dimensions Infinity WidthHeightDepthEternityTimeMatthew 25:31-46Eternity of Life or Eternity of Punishment Root and Meaning of Eternity and Everlasting LifeContinuous Duration Lasting All Future timeRomans 6:23 1 John 5:11–13 John 5:24 John 14:2–3 John 3:16

Gospel Of Grace - Part 10The Fruit of the Spirit Is LoveGalatians 5:16-26I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. John 14:6-7Characteristics of Fruit:Fruit is birthed by abidingFruit is fragileFruit must remain freshFruit reproduces itselfFruit is attractiveFruit is nourishingFruit quenches the thirstGalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A narrative — personal Chapters 3 & 4 – A discussion — doctrinalChapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation — practicalThis Gospel of Grace Revealed:Galatians 5:1 “It was for freedom that Christ set us free”Galatians 5:5 “For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness.”Galatians 5:6 “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through loveGalatians 5:16 “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:22-26The Fruit of the Holy Spirit is Lov Love – Greek = agape = unconquerable benevolence. “It means that no matter what a man may do to us by way of insult or injury or humiliation we will never seek anything else but his highest good. It is therefore a feeling of the mind as much as the heart; it concerns the will as much as the emotions. It describes the deliberate effort - which we can make only with the help of God - never to seek anything but the best even for those who seek the worst for us.” (Barclay)Joy – Greek = eirene Not the joy from earthly things but of the Spirit of God.We are not bound to or dependent upon temporary circumstances!Peace – Greek = chara Not just freedom from trouble but everything that makes for a man's highest good“A tranquility of heart which derives from the all-pervading consciousness that our times are in the hands of God." (Barclay)Philippians 4:7 – The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.Patience  (longsuffering)Kindness, goodnessThese two words are closely connected with the added idea of generosity in goodness.Faithfulness – God’s reliability developed in us.Gentleness – a teachable spirit, meekness.Self-control and not for selfish reasons.Galatians 5:24-26Galatians 2:20Romans 6:5-7 “For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin.”“If you belong to Christ—heirs according to the promise”Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5

Gospel Of Grace - Part 9You Do What You BelieveGalatians 5:16-21I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. John 14:6-7GalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A narrative—personal Chapters 3 & 4 – A discussion—doctrinalChapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation—practicalBut I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Galatians 5:16-18Vs 19 “Now the deeds (sinful acts) of the flesh are evident” while Vss 16-17 “the desire of the flesh (sinful nature) are hidden”Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21Acts (Deeds) of the Old Sinful NatureSensuality —illicit sex—(immorality, impurity, sensuality)Superstition —religious heresy—(idolatry, sorcery)Temper —social conflict—(enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions)Excesses —“drunkenness, carousing, and things like these”Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him. Flee immorality. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the immoral man sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. I Corinthians 6:17-2

GOSPEL OF GRACE - PART 8Walk In The SpiritGalatians 5:16-21I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you. John 14:6-7Galatians Chapters 1 & 2 – A narrative —personal  Chapters 3 & 4 – A discussion —doctrinal Chapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation —practicalBut I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Galatians 5:16-18Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Vice is a monster of so frightful mien as to be hated needs but to be seen; yet seen too oft, familiar with her face, we first endure, then pity, then embrace. – Alexander PopeWalk In The Spirit1 Corinthians 13:12-13“For now we see in a mirror dimly” John 14:1-6; 25-29But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. Galatians 5:16

Let Not Your Heart Be TroubledJohn:14

Gospel of GraceGalatians 5:1-15So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1This is a plea for sanity and a return to grace.If you belong to Christ — you are heirs according to the promise!Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Falling from graceGalatians 5:1-12Salvation is not a reward for the righteous but a gift for the guilty!For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness. Galatians 5:5But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:1If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. John 8:3

Gospel of GraceGalatians 3 & 4There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise Galatians 3:28-29If you belong to Christ — you are heirs according to the promisGrace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-This is a plea for sanity and a return to grace.Galatians 4:19 “My children, with whom I am again in labor until Christ is formed in you”Galatians 4:28 “And you brethren, like Isaac, are children of promise.”Now I say, as long as the heir is a child, he does not differ at all from a slave although he is owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by the father. So also we, while we were children, were held in bondage under the elemental things of the world. But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God. Galatians 4:1-7

Gospel of GraceGalatians 3:22-29Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5Galatians Chapters 1 & 2 – A narrative — personal  Chapters 3 & 4 – A discussion — doctrinal Chapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation — practicalBut the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. Galatians 3:22-24After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands; and they cry out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” Revelation 7:9-1BreakpointChuck Colson “It’s the Eichmann in all of us.”But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise. Galatians 3:25-29“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 22:3

No Depreciation

Gospel of GraceGalatians 3:1-9Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5GalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A Narrative — personal Chapters 3 & 4 – A Discussion — doctrinalChapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation — practicalYou foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified? Galatians 3:1Galatians 33:1-5 – exhortation back to faith.Faith expressed in creed “I believe”Faith expressed in relationship “I trust”Faith expressed in love (reality) “I obey”3:6-9 – A reminder3:10-12 – The curse3:13-14 – The Gospel of Grace3:15-18 – A legal explanation3:19-22 – All has been reserved for faith in Jesus!3:23-29 – Why the Law?

Gospel of GraceGalatians 2:11-21Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5GalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A Narrative—personal Chapters 3 & 4 – A Discussion—doctrinalChapters 5 & 6 – An exhortation—practicalI am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ,   for a different gospel. Galatians 1:6The True Gospel—The absolute and distinctive doctrine of Jesus Christ, that the eternal salvation of the soul is altogether of Divine grace in Christ, apart from religious observances and human merit-works of every kind.Galatians 2:11-211st paragraph Vss 11-13Discipleship: ConfrontationFearHypocrisy2nd paragraph Vss 14-16 Discipleship: Justification  Romans 3:19-20 Ephesians 2:83rd paragraph  Vss 17-21Discipleship: Death to self Alive to God

Gospel of GraceGalatians 1:3-5Grounded - Guided - GuardedAll Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.2 Timothy 3:16-17GalatiansChapters 1 & 2 – A Narrative personal (pertaining to Paul)Chapters 3 & 4 – A Discussiondoctrinal (pertaining to the gospel of grace)Chapters 5 & 6 – An exhortationpractical (pertaining to the believers)I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ,   for a different gospel. Galatians 1:6Paul’s Personal TestimonyGrace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5“In Christ”Our Source:1 Corinthians 1:30-31Our Position:Ephesians 1:3-82 Corinthians 5:17-21

Gospel of GraceGalatians 1:1-5Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5“In Christ”Our Source:1 Corinthians 1:30-31Romans 6:231 Corinthian 15:222 Corinthians 1:20-22

Strong Tower - RestThe name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10Therefore, let us fear if, while a promise remains of entering His rest, any one of you may seem to have come short of it. Hebrews 4:1Receive God’s intention and His provision:Strong Tower—RunStrong Tower—ReturnStrong Tower—RestoreStrong Tower—RighteousStrong Tower—RestReturned and RestoredFor He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91:1-The Secret PlacePsalm 91Confession: God’s ProtectionConfidence: God’s DeliveranceConclusion: God’s SalvationHe who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” Psalm 91:1-2Keep me as the apple of the eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings from the wicked who despoil me, my deadly enemies who surround me. Psalm 17:8-AngelsAre they not all ministering spirits, sent out to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation? Hebrews 1:14II Kings6:17 Exodus 23:20Romans 16:20

Strong TowerThe name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10Receive God’s intention and His provision:Strong Tower—RunStrong Tower—ReturnStrong Tower—RestoreStrong Tower—RighteousStrong Tower—RestReturned and RestoredFor He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13“In Christ”The righteous run into it and are saved.Our Source:1 Corinthians 1:30-31Romans 6:231 Corinthian 15:222 Corinthians 1:20-22Our Position:Ephesians 1:3-8Romans 8:37-392 Corinthians 5:17-2Our Identity:Galatians 3:26-27Ephesians 2:1-101 Corinthian 1:2-And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be the glory forever and ever. Amen. Philippians 4:1The name of the Lord is a strong towerThe righteous run into it and they are saved.Blessed be the name of the LordBlessed be the name of the LordBlessed be the name of the Lord most high

Strong TowerThe name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10Receive God’s intention and His provision:Strong Tower—RunStrong Tower—ReturnStrong Tower—RestoreStrong Tower—RighteousStrong Tower—RestSin, a rupture of communion!Jesus welcomes our return.Primary Needs:Security (stability or certainty)Self-expression (purpose, adventure, options)Support (community or family)Significance (purpose—life matters)Returned and RestoredFor He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13Remember and ReturnZechariah 9:9-127 PromisesA shout of triumphAn announcement of His comingA pronouncement on their enemiesPeace to the nationsThe domain of His KingdomProvided by the blood covenant. Delivered from the waterless pitI love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:1-3They will live securely, and no one will make them afraid. Ezekiel 34:28Safety isn’t the absence of danger or suffering, it is finding rest in the middle of it.We need the strong tower!We live in a world where most people are spiritually empty.We live in a crowded world and most people are lonely.We live in a world filled with guilt.We live in a world of fear!

Hebrews 1

Strong TowerThe name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10Receive God’s intention and His provision:Strong Tower—Run!Strong Tower—Return!Strong Tower—Restore!Strong Tower—Rest!Sin, a rupture of communion!Jesus welcomes our return.Primary Needs:Security (stability or certainty)Self-expression (purpose, adventure, options)Support (community or family)Significance (purpose—life matters)

Strong TowerThe name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous runs into it and is safe. Proverbs 18:10For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13“Away then all fears! The Kingdom is safe in the Kings hands.”-- Charles SpurgeonHear my cry, O God; Give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Let me dwell in Your tent forever; Let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. Psalm 61:1-4Hear my cry Oh God . . . attend unto to my prayer.  From the ends of the earth . . . will I cry unto to Thee.  When my heart is overwhelmed . . . lead me to the Rock that is higher than I, so much  higher than IFor Thou has been a shelter unto me . . . a strong, strong tower against the enemy. Psalm 61:1-PentecostActs 2:22-24For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13And in that day you will say, “Give thanks to the LORD, call on His name. Make known His deeds among the peoples; Make them remember that His name is exalted.” Praise the LORD in song, for He has done excellent things; Let this be known throughout the earth. Isaiah 12:4-5

Crisis of FaithJohn 20:19-29

It's Not About Money

Justice and MercyThe LORD is slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, forgiving iniquity and transgression; but He will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generations. Numbers 14:18For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. John 3:16-17Scripture reveals that the release of God’s wrath is measured by grace for our benefit, and we will yet realized it as mercy.Genesis 2:16-17 Romans 6:23 Ezekiel 33:10-11Deuteronomy 30:19-20anthropomorphic (like man)phenomenological (observable)I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Galatians 2:20For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:11-14

Not Another Thing!Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. I Timothy 2:1-4PrayerPrayer is not a duty, but a relationship.Prayer intimately brings us face to face with God.Prayer exposes our desperation and dependence on God.Prayer expresses our surrender and sacrifice to God.Prayer includes our gratitude to God and our trust in God.With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit Ephesians 6:18127 times in the New Testament!<Greek> = proseucheto express your desire or needwith a sense of closeness or intimacyI Samuel 1:11 -- Hannah vowed a son to the ministryActs 12 – Disciple prayed for Peter’s release5 WordsPrayer         – ExchangeSupplication     – Acknowledge a heartfelt need Thanksgiving     – A sense of gratitude from the heart Requests     – Pouring out our expectationKnown         – BoldnessPhilippians 4:4-7 “Don’t worry about anything – and that means nothing at all! Instead, come before God and give Him the things that concern you so He can in exchange give you what you need or desire. Be bold to strongly, passionately, and fervently make your request known to God, making certain that an equal measure of thanksgiving goes along with your asking. You have every right to ask boldly, so go ahead and insist that God meet your need. When you pray, be so bold that there is no doubt your prayer was heard. Broadcast it! Declare it! Pray boldly until you have the assurance that God has heard your request!”Rick Renner’s – “Sparkling Gems”

The 1st ResurrectionSacred CommandmentsWater Baptism and CommunionMatthew 28:18-20Romans 6:1-7The 1st ResurrectionColossians 2:6-15Vs 6 – Have you received Christ?Vs 7 – Get rooted!Vs 8 – Be careful.Vss 9-10  – Be informed.Vss 11-15 – Be delivered!Moreover the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, so that you may live. Deuteronomy 30:6The 1st ResurrectionRevelation 19 - 20Chapter 19 The fourfold Hallelujah’sChapter 20 Christ’s finished work!1 John 3:8; Colossians 2:15Blessed and holy is the one who has a part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years. Revelation 20:6

To Be Holy1 Peter 1:13-16

The Victorious LambLuke 24:1-9The Lamb of GodIsaiah 53:1-7, 10The Lamb is the key symbol for Jesus in the Book of the Revelation!The Unveiling pages 60-61 (referencing)Revelation 19:9; 22:1-3; 5:6, 12-14; 7:10, 17; 13:8Resurrection means the worst thing is never the last thing. – Frederick BuechnerSalome at the Tombwww.godtube.com/watch/?v=WGWWZGNXFrom the Foundations of the EarthGenesis 3:15 – God’s promised remedyGenesis 3:21 – God’s first coveringLeviticus – God’s temporary sacrificial systemLaw and the Prophets Revealing the holiness of GodExposing the sinfulness of manThe mirror of God’s Word“Our task, as image bearing, God-loving, Christ-shape, Spirit-filled Christians, following Christ and shaping our world, is to announce redemption to a world that has discovered its fallenness, to announce healing to a world that has discovered its brokenness, to proclaim love and trust to the world that knows only exploitation, fear and suspicion.”  -- N.T. Wright

Equipping EvangelistHal Linhardt Evangelistic Ministries

The Last SupperMatthew 26:26-29The Lord’s SupperPassoverCovenantRelationshipRemember

Church GrowthEphesians 4:11-16Growing the church, not in numbers, but growth as a Christian.

Church GrowthEphesians 4:11-16Growing the church, not in numbers, but growth as a Christian.

The Spirit of Revelation - Part 4Ephesians 1:17-19That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe  Ephesians 1:17-19aGod, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power. Hebrews 1:1-3The Spirit of RevelationGod’s DesireGod’s DeliveranceGod’s DirectionGod’s DisclosureAlready Revealed1 Corinthians 2:6-101 Corinthians 4:1Psalm 25:14 Mark 4:11Romans 16:25-27God is Self-Revealing Revelation 1:1-3The Unveiling: The Book of Sevens 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8 Hebrews 4:1-2Mark 4:11He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him. John 14:2Revelation is central to Christianity

The Spirit of Revelation - Part 3bEphesians 1:17-19That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe Ephesians 1:17-19aThe Spirit of RevelationGod’s DesireGod’s DeliveranceGod’s DirectionGod’s DisclosureFaithFaith Comes     – Romans 10:17  Faith Grows      – II Thessalonians Faith Works      – James 2:22  Faith Speaks     – Romans 10:6 For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-1Increased FaithGenesis 3:4-6James 1:13-16Habakkuk 2:4“But the righteous will live by his faith.”I John 2:15-17The LieGod can be ignored.God’s part can be taken.Man can make his own rules for success.Resulting in:Man began doubting God’s WordHe began to believe that there is no accountability with God.He began to question God’s goodnessHe began to attempt to live independentlyHow you have fallen from heaven, O star of the morning, son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the earth, You who have weakened the nations! But you said in your heart, “I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God, And I will sit on the mount of assembly In the recesses of the north. I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.” Isaiah 14:12-14Search me, O God, and know my heart;Try me and know my anxious thoughts;And see if there be any hurtful way in me,And lead me in the everlasting way.Psalm 139:23-2

The Spirit of Revelation - Part 3God’s DesireGod’s DeliveranceGod’s DirectionGod’s DisclosureFor the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:12-13... while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe Ephesians 1:15-19aThe grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all. 2 Corinthians 13:14Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-2Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way. Psalm 139:23-2

The Spirit of RevelationMatthew 3-4 ... while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe Ephesians 1:15-19aIt is finished!

The Spirit of Revelation1 Corinthians 2:6-10... while making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe Ephesians 1:15-19aThe Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are oppressed, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord. Luke 4:18It is finished!Matthew 27:50-51Genesis 3:15From the Fall to the FulfillmentTemptationThe Lie!Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He Himself does not tempt anyone. But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is accomplished, it brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. James 1:13-16

CCC 18th AnniversaryExploitsThe people who know their God will display strength and take action. Daniel 11:32bVisionWe are blessed to be a blessing, and there-fore, are to walk in our destiny with a vision that is generational, relational , and practical.Proverbs 29:18Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint NKJVWhere there is no vision, the people are unrestrained NASBRemembering: Real courage is applying God’s faithfulness in the past to our dreams of the future, these will determine our decisions for the present.A church that is doing WELLW - WorshippingE - EvangelizingL - LearningL - LovingActs 2:41-47

Favor Comes From The LordProverbs 8:35What is favor?Do I Have It?How Do I Get it?Favor is defined as:The fruit of God’s presence in our livesBeing acceptable and pleasing to GodFor he who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord. Proverbs 8:35Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; And confirm for us the work of our hands; Yes, confirm the work of our hands. Proverbs 90:17How do I receive this favor?For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are oppressed, To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord. Luke 4:18-19His Favor, What does it look like?Luke 2:52 “Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”Jesus’ process of maturing and growing and becoming continued to improve and others admired Him.He wasn’t improving in His divine nature as He was fully God and fully man. But, He was proceeding in His human nature, increasing in stature and growing in age.His soul increased in wisdom—Jesus learned obedience as He listened to the Father.Remember Jesus Pronouncement!Good news to the poor!Those with the humility to acknowledge their need. “Blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the Kingdom of God” (Matthew 5)Release of the captives!These are those that have been waiting for over 4,000 years for the remedy promised in the Garden of Eden and Adam’s fall. Jesus has come to set the captives free and following His death He descended into the place of the dead and proclaimed their liberty and lead them into the presence of the Father.Recovery of sight to the blind!Humanity without God stumbles around in the dark.Jesus is the light which has come into the world. He is God’s unveiling!Freedom for the oppressed!Those that are bound by demonic lies and deathThose addicted to the false comforts of this worldTrue freedom is found in Jesus Christ.This is the favorable year of the Lord!Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. In the exercise of His will He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we would be a kind of first fruits among His creatures. James 1:17-18Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:20

Psalm 121

The Favorable Year of the LordLuke 4:16-21A Fresh Start — A New BeginningThe strength of a man's virtue should not be measured by his special exertions, but by his habitual acts.— Blaise Pascal (1623–1662) The second half of a man's life is made up of the habits he acquired during the first half.—  Fyodor Mikhaylovich Dostoyevski (1821–1881) But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves. James 1:22-25Transformed by the Word of GodRoman 12:2 – Not conformed but transformed1 Timothy 4:7-8 - Discipline for the purpose of godliness Sow an act and you reap a habit. Sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny. --Samuel Smiles (1812-1904)Seeking the LordCornerstone Church Fast until January 22nd. A Daniel Fast  (exclude meat—sweets—stimulating drinks)Three steps:Be specificFast as a spiritual commitmentReflect your inner desire with outer discipline.Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:6

The Friend of DeplorablesMark 2:13-17Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. Revelation 3:20Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:62017 Fast – Three Purposes:For repentance for sinTo clear the spiritual airAn inward preparation for receiving the grace we need, the strength to do what the Lord has directed.