This morning at Christian Life Church…an excellent finish to a great 2008! Jeannie Benger spoke on ‘Hope’.
Hebrews 11:1 – Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see
1 Corinthians 13:13 – And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love
So often people live without hope, going through the motions of life from day to day. As another Christmas finishes we can feel flat and without hope.
Our message today is that ‘you can have hope in your life’. Through Jesus Christ we can have a hope in him that will last forever – eternal hope!
God wants to bring us hope today and wants us to be the kind of people who bring hope into other people’s lives.
There may be a number of reasons why people lose hope…dashed dreams, let down by others, they put their hope in the wrong things, impatience.
Isaiah 40:31 - They that put their hope in the Lord will renew their strength
People can live self-centred lives…‘it’s all about me’. Let us not focus on what we can get but on what we can give. Acts 20:35 – 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'
For 2009 let us bring hope to the world we are a part of.
Our focus is on three areas when it comes to Hope…
YOU – You bring hope into the world
You effect your environment. Proverbs 12:25 – An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up
You have something great to offer. Take time to encourage others. Speak life into people’s lives not negativity. Your life is a lot bigger than you think it is. You effect more people than you realise. When people are in a crisis you can be word of God that they need to hear. We need to sow into people’s live seed that will reap a great harvest.
As we face challenges in our lives we need to surround ourselves with positive faith-filled words. We also need positive people around us so we need to choose wisely who we spend time with.
Be a problem solver and also have people around you who will focus on the solution and not the problem.
Be a ‘good report’ for the people in your world.
JESUS – He is the hope of the World
John 10:10 – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full
In a world that appears to be losing hope, Jesus has come to bring us hope.
Proverbs 13:12 – Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life
Or hope unrealised. Hope it’s always been there, we just need to have a revelation of that. There is hope…his name is Jesus! No one is excluded they just don’t realise this yet.
We have good news to tell the world. John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life
God loved and He gave! He loved all those around, no one is excluded this is an inclusive Gospel.
THE CHURCH – Hope for our communities
1 Chronicles 22:5 – David said, "My son Solomon is young and inexperienced, and the house to be built for the LORD should be of great magnificence and fame and splendour in the sight of all the nations. Therefore I will make preparations for it." So David made extensive preparations before his death.
As the church we make a difference in our world. We have a mandate to build a magnificent church. A place of HOPE where needs are met, lives are lifted and healed. There are the little things that we do that make a difference in our community. Little things that mean big things to people! Let us continue to be a generous people to our community.
Remember, the best is yet to come…we are going to reach more people than ever before and to see their lives being touched and given ‘hope’.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Friday, December 26, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
And Peter
We had a great time in church today, it was our prize giving service. Paul Benger spoke an excellent message entitled ‘And Peter’.
What a great character Peter was! Someone who would swing from being brilliant to someone not so good. He left his nets, as a fisherman, and followed Jesus. He said that he would never forsake Jesus and then denied him three times.
Mark 16:1-7
Have you ever felt excluded? On the edge of things? (When the teams were being picked as a child you never got chosen)
Greatest feeling we can ever have has humans is the fear of being ignored or excluded.
How did Peter feel at this time?
Disappointed in himself – (we’re usually our own greatest critics) He must have felt at a really low point as he relived the events in his head, going off like bombs in his thoughts. I’m sure he would have said to himself, ‘I’ll just go back fishing’.
Disappointed in Jesus – He thought Jesus was going to be King and that his Kingdom would rule over the authorities of the day. Peter had not realised that Jesus would be King and his Kingdom would rule in the lives of people as they accepted him as their Lord and Saviour.
Peter must have felt like a loser and excluded because he’d denied Jesus.
But these verses say ‘Go and tell the disciples and Peter' - he was not excluded!
What did Peter need?
1) He needed to hear the words “And Peter”. He needed to know that his name was still known by God. We need to know today that we are still included, we’re not disqualified by our past, present circumstances.
God knows your name and you matter to God. Not excluded, the things we think disqualify us actually qualify us to received God’s amazing grace!
2 Corinthians 12:9 – But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
He needed to know the grace of God was there for him. That he mattered to God. You do too!
2) To be a disciple – that he was sill counted as a follower of Christ. He’d still been the one to leave his nets and follow Jesus. He was not disqualified from being a disciple.
3) He had to have something to live for. He was an all or nothing guy. ‘Your name is Peter and upon this rock…’. He still had something to live for.
Luke 24:12 – Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Peter ran! He was still passionate for the cause of Christ. He wasn’t going to end his days as ‘just’ a fisherman. Don’t let us be ‘just’ whatever we’re called to do. Let us live for the glory of God!
How was Peter restored?
1) Over a fire! It was over a fire when Peter first blew it…when he denied Jesus three times.
John 21:9-12 – When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught." Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord
Jesus was cooking breakfast. Peter fell over a fire and was restored over a fire.
We can have disappointments in our lives but Jesus is cooking breakfast for us saying, ‘let’s get going again!’ You are the light of the world.
2) With a call – ‘Peter if you love me…feed my sheep’. Missional call is still on for Peter and it is still on for us!
Knowing Jesus and Making Him Known
What a great character Peter was! Someone who would swing from being brilliant to someone not so good. He left his nets, as a fisherman, and followed Jesus. He said that he would never forsake Jesus and then denied him three times.
Mark 16:1-7
Have you ever felt excluded? On the edge of things? (When the teams were being picked as a child you never got chosen)
Greatest feeling we can ever have has humans is the fear of being ignored or excluded.
How did Peter feel at this time?
Disappointed in himself – (we’re usually our own greatest critics) He must have felt at a really low point as he relived the events in his head, going off like bombs in his thoughts. I’m sure he would have said to himself, ‘I’ll just go back fishing’.
Disappointed in Jesus – He thought Jesus was going to be King and that his Kingdom would rule over the authorities of the day. Peter had not realised that Jesus would be King and his Kingdom would rule in the lives of people as they accepted him as their Lord and Saviour.
Peter must have felt like a loser and excluded because he’d denied Jesus.
But these verses say ‘Go and tell the disciples and Peter' - he was not excluded!
What did Peter need?
1) He needed to hear the words “And Peter”. He needed to know that his name was still known by God. We need to know today that we are still included, we’re not disqualified by our past, present circumstances.
God knows your name and you matter to God. Not excluded, the things we think disqualify us actually qualify us to received God’s amazing grace!
2 Corinthians 12:9 – But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
He needed to know the grace of God was there for him. That he mattered to God. You do too!
2) To be a disciple – that he was sill counted as a follower of Christ. He’d still been the one to leave his nets and follow Jesus. He was not disqualified from being a disciple.
3) He had to have something to live for. He was an all or nothing guy. ‘Your name is Peter and upon this rock…’. He still had something to live for.
Luke 24:12 – Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.
Peter ran! He was still passionate for the cause of Christ. He wasn’t going to end his days as ‘just’ a fisherman. Don’t let us be ‘just’ whatever we’re called to do. Let us live for the glory of God!
How was Peter restored?
1) Over a fire! It was over a fire when Peter first blew it…when he denied Jesus three times.
John 21:9-12 – When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught." Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord
Jesus was cooking breakfast. Peter fell over a fire and was restored over a fire.
We can have disappointments in our lives but Jesus is cooking breakfast for us saying, ‘let’s get going again!’ You are the light of the world.
2) With a call – ‘Peter if you love me…feed my sheep’. Missional call is still on for Peter and it is still on for us!
Knowing Jesus and Making Him Known
Sunday, December 07, 2008
If – Big Change
Mark Wilkins finished off this excellent series this morning. His message was all about ‘Big Change’.
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Turn and seek God’s face, to bring about change in our lives. As we ‘turn’ to God and seek his face he will do!
Our first turning, big change, is when we first give our lives to God. We become a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
We’ve begun a completely new journey to the one we were on. We get on a different set of tracks. The biggest single change we can make in our lives is to turn and follow Jesus Christ.
But even when we become a new creation our changing doesn’t end there. On his journey we are continually growing and changing.
Romans 12:2-3 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you
Renewing your mind is dynamic…it means constant change and growth. The Apostle Paul is speaking to Christians here (church in Rome) to transform their thinking and renew their minds.
Our culture that we become part of can change us…we are called to change the culture around us in our world…our town, area, the lives of people.
God has done it in you and he wants to do it in the lives of other people around you. He does it through us.
We’re meant to grow, to move from milk to meat, from being children to adults.
As we grow we’re meant to mature (not meaning getting old) but becoming more like Christ.
How do we ensure that we are constantly growing and maturing?
Let us be humble, that what we have and who we are is from God. His grace at work in our lives. Everything that we do is for him and not for ourselves.
Romans 12:3 – For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you
Paul is talking about humility, just like our main verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Humble =Turn
Pray = Seek my Face
It is all about His cause and not our cause. His will and not our will. Living for him and allowing him to change us, mould us.
2 things that stop us from changing things in our lives…
Competing Commitments - sinful old self against new created self. A good example of this is the rich young man in Mark 10:17-25. Why couldn’t this young man turn around and change his ways?…because of competing commitments.
We can have competing commitments competing against our desire to follow God and his ways.
Underlying False Assumptions – Holding on to something that we believe to be true that is not true. Some examples…
John 1:46 - "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked.
False assumptions that our location holds us back from believing that God will do something incredible in our lives.
John 4:9 - The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?"
False assumptions that our race holds us back.
John 5:7 – "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
‘This is how it has always been’. False assumptions that our history (past) holds us back.
John 5:9 - and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, "It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat."
False assumptions that religion holds us back.
Let us not hold false assumptions about ourselves and situations that make us believe that God won’t do it. When He will and when He wants to!
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Turn and seek God’s face, to bring about change in our lives. As we ‘turn’ to God and seek his face he will do!
Our first turning, big change, is when we first give our lives to God. We become a new creation.
2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
We’ve begun a completely new journey to the one we were on. We get on a different set of tracks. The biggest single change we can make in our lives is to turn and follow Jesus Christ.
But even when we become a new creation our changing doesn’t end there. On his journey we are continually growing and changing.
Romans 12:2-3 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you
Renewing your mind is dynamic…it means constant change and growth. The Apostle Paul is speaking to Christians here (church in Rome) to transform their thinking and renew their minds.
Our culture that we become part of can change us…we are called to change the culture around us in our world…our town, area, the lives of people.
God has done it in you and he wants to do it in the lives of other people around you. He does it through us.
We’re meant to grow, to move from milk to meat, from being children to adults.
As we grow we’re meant to mature (not meaning getting old) but becoming more like Christ.
How do we ensure that we are constantly growing and maturing?
Let us be humble, that what we have and who we are is from God. His grace at work in our lives. Everything that we do is for him and not for ourselves.
Romans 12:3 – For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgement, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you
Paul is talking about humility, just like our main verse from 2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Humble =Turn
Pray = Seek my Face
It is all about His cause and not our cause. His will and not our will. Living for him and allowing him to change us, mould us.
2 things that stop us from changing things in our lives…
Competing Commitments - sinful old self against new created self. A good example of this is the rich young man in Mark 10:17-25. Why couldn’t this young man turn around and change his ways?…because of competing commitments.
We can have competing commitments competing against our desire to follow God and his ways.
Underlying False Assumptions – Holding on to something that we believe to be true that is not true. Some examples…
John 1:46 - "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked.
False assumptions that our location holds us back from believing that God will do something incredible in our lives.
John 4:9 - The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?"
False assumptions that our race holds us back.
John 5:7 – "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me."
‘This is how it has always been’. False assumptions that our history (past) holds us back.
John 5:9 - and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, "It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat."
False assumptions that religion holds us back.
Let us not hold false assumptions about ourselves and situations that make us believe that God won’t do it. When He will and when He wants to!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
If - Called by My Name
Paul Benger continued our excellent series ‘If’ this morning. He brought a great message about what it means to be ‘called by God’s name’.
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Little steps can make big changes in our lives. God is a builder and often does small incremental things in our lives. We need to respond to those little things and not just wait for the big things to happen.
Proverbs 4:23 - Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life
Success is not what we have but who we are in Christ and what we do for him. He is a big God who will do incredible things in our lives. Right-size our God so that we can right size our own lives.
What if? If we are called by his name…God is big enough to meet all our needs, to lift people’s lives, to set them free!
‘Names’ mean things. Names mean a lot us when we name our children. They mean a lot to us when we purchase items. Names that mean reliability etc.
God has revealed things to us through his name, and we are called by that name. The name that means strength, faithfulness and reliability.
Some of the names of God…
Elohim – the plural from EL meaning strong, mighty one. Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth
He is the strong creator. He makes a way when there is no way! Proverbs 18:10 – The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe
El Shaddai – God Almighty
El Elyon – The Most High God, stresses his strength, sovereignty and supremacy.
El Olam – Everlasting God
Yahweh – ‘I am’, or ‘I will be what I will be’
Yahweh Jireh – The Lord will provide
Yahweh Nissi – The Lord is my banner, victory
Yahweh Shalom – The Lord is my peace
Yahweh Sabbaoth – the Lord of hosts
Yahweh Maccaddeshcem – the Lord is my sanctifier
Yahweh Ro’i – the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)
Yahweh Tsidkenu – The Lord our righteousness
Yahweh Shammah – the Lord is there (God with us!)
He reveals who he is to us, his might and power so that we can live by his name!
3 questions that God asks us so that we know we are called by his name…
What is in your hand?
Exodus 3:11 – But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?"
We haven’t got to try and be like someone else. Be faithful with what God has put in your hand.
Genesis 26:1-12 – Isaac sowed in the land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold!
Sow what is in your hand and you will be blessed! Our confidence is in God and his character. Let us use what God has put in our hand.
What is in your house?
2 Kings 4:2 - Elisha replied to her, "How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?" "Your servant has nothing there at all," she said, "except a little oil."
Her problem was her need, she was in debt. Yet she was able to us what she had and see incredible miraculous blessing! God wants to build our lives and he uses what we have. Take up the challenge to build your house.
What is in our house…our church? God wants to see us building it together. He will reveal more to us the more we build. Let us build this house. We have a big God who has given us a big vision.
What is in your heart?
He loves our hearts. He looked at David and saw his heart not his outward appearance.
Have we got a heart for our church to prosper? To see lives healed and set free, for people to come to Christ.
Do you have a heart to see your marriage blessed, relationships made stronger?
We can sometimes act against what is in our hearts.
Let us allow God to help us use what is in our hands, house and heart…to fulfil what God has called us to!
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
Little steps can make big changes in our lives. God is a builder and often does small incremental things in our lives. We need to respond to those little things and not just wait for the big things to happen.
Proverbs 4:23 - Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life
Success is not what we have but who we are in Christ and what we do for him. He is a big God who will do incredible things in our lives. Right-size our God so that we can right size our own lives.
What if? If we are called by his name…God is big enough to meet all our needs, to lift people’s lives, to set them free!
‘Names’ mean things. Names mean a lot us when we name our children. They mean a lot to us when we purchase items. Names that mean reliability etc.
God has revealed things to us through his name, and we are called by that name. The name that means strength, faithfulness and reliability.
Some of the names of God…
Elohim – the plural from EL meaning strong, mighty one. Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth
He is the strong creator. He makes a way when there is no way! Proverbs 18:10 – The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe
El Shaddai – God Almighty
El Elyon – The Most High God, stresses his strength, sovereignty and supremacy.
El Olam – Everlasting God
Yahweh – ‘I am’, or ‘I will be what I will be’
Yahweh Jireh – The Lord will provide
Yahweh Nissi – The Lord is my banner, victory
Yahweh Shalom – The Lord is my peace
Yahweh Sabbaoth – the Lord of hosts
Yahweh Maccaddeshcem – the Lord is my sanctifier
Yahweh Ro’i – the Lord is my Shepherd (Psalm 23:1)
Yahweh Tsidkenu – The Lord our righteousness
Yahweh Shammah – the Lord is there (God with us!)
He reveals who he is to us, his might and power so that we can live by his name!
3 questions that God asks us so that we know we are called by his name…
What is in your hand?
Exodus 3:11 – But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?"
We haven’t got to try and be like someone else. Be faithful with what God has put in your hand.
Genesis 26:1-12 – Isaac sowed in the land and reaped in the same year a hundredfold!
Sow what is in your hand and you will be blessed! Our confidence is in God and his character. Let us use what God has put in our hand.
What is in your house?
2 Kings 4:2 - Elisha replied to her, "How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?" "Your servant has nothing there at all," she said, "except a little oil."
Her problem was her need, she was in debt. Yet she was able to us what she had and see incredible miraculous blessing! God wants to build our lives and he uses what we have. Take up the challenge to build your house.
What is in our house…our church? God wants to see us building it together. He will reveal more to us the more we build. Let us build this house. We have a big God who has given us a big vision.
What is in your heart?
He loves our hearts. He looked at David and saw his heart not his outward appearance.
Have we got a heart for our church to prosper? To see lives healed and set free, for people to come to Christ.
Do you have a heart to see your marriage blessed, relationships made stronger?
We can sometimes act against what is in our hearts.
Let us allow God to help us use what is in our hands, house and heart…to fulfil what God has called us to!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
If - Big People
We’re in an excellent series at church at the moment called “If”. Paul Benger brought the second part this morning all about being ‘big people’.
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
God wants to do so much in our lives; he puts the ONUS on us to respond to him. ONUS (On us) – meaning load/burden. The onus is on us today to not only believe that God will do but to also take the steps of faith to see it come about. Let us carry the thought that we do make a difference! Don’t view onus as a negative thing.
We are Big People because we are His People!
Who do you think you are?
Ever tried to go back and discover your ancestry? It’s not wrong to research your ancestry, but letting your ancestry influence or determine your life now and your future is wrong.
1 Timothy 1:13-14 – As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work—which is by faith.
Don’t get tied down by your history, instead give yourself to God’s work by faith.
Titus 3:9 – But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless
You are not the product of your ancestry. Your life is not determined by their actions. Don’t miss out on what God has for you because we blame our past.
Proverbs 23:7 – For as he thinks in his heart, so is he
What do you think about you?
You are not the product of your history
Your life is not determined by your postcode or where you were born.
Grab hold of God’s work/will for your life by faith…whatever your past whatever your background. You can still live in a small place but have a big impact!
We can be in God’s household but still not grab hold of all that he has for us!
Appreciate who you are in Christ individually and as a church.
You are a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
You are not reformed
You are not rehabilitated
You are not re-educated
You are not re-programmed
You’ve been re-created...made anew! This allows us to now live for Christ. With different passion, different culture, new love, new purity.
Our postcode has changed…Heaven is our home! Transferred from kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light!
Yes our bodies still wrestle between old thinking and new thinking. Galatians 2:20 – I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me
God will grow us bigger as we realise who we are in Christ. God has taken this life and made it new…re-created in Christ. “taken this old skin and made it new again!”
Let us be a bigger person!
We are the people of God
He will do for our neighbours what he has done for us. The onus on us, the people of God, to believe that and to take action!
Acts 2:42 – They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer
His people are ‘devoted’ people
His people are ‘preachers’ – God is a preacher! “Light be” and light was. In the beginning there also came another preacher to deceive and to cause man to fall. There are many preachers today vying for our attention to distract us from what God is saying.
His people are in fellowship
His people break bread
His people pray
2 Chronicles 7:14 – Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land
God wants to do so much in our lives; he puts the ONUS on us to respond to him. ONUS (On us) – meaning load/burden. The onus is on us today to not only believe that God will do but to also take the steps of faith to see it come about. Let us carry the thought that we do make a difference! Don’t view onus as a negative thing.
We are Big People because we are His People!
Who do you think you are?
Ever tried to go back and discover your ancestry? It’s not wrong to research your ancestry, but letting your ancestry influence or determine your life now and your future is wrong.
1 Timothy 1:13-14 – As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach false doctrines any longer nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. These promote controversies rather than God's work—which is by faith.
Don’t get tied down by your history, instead give yourself to God’s work by faith.
Titus 3:9 – But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless
You are not the product of your ancestry. Your life is not determined by their actions. Don’t miss out on what God has for you because we blame our past.
Proverbs 23:7 – For as he thinks in his heart, so is he
What do you think about you?
You are not the product of your history
Your life is not determined by your postcode or where you were born.
Grab hold of God’s work/will for your life by faith…whatever your past whatever your background. You can still live in a small place but have a big impact!
We can be in God’s household but still not grab hold of all that he has for us!
Appreciate who you are in Christ individually and as a church.
You are a new creation! 2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
You are not reformed
You are not rehabilitated
You are not re-educated
You are not re-programmed
You’ve been re-created...made anew! This allows us to now live for Christ. With different passion, different culture, new love, new purity.
Our postcode has changed…Heaven is our home! Transferred from kingdom of darkness to the kingdom of light!
Yes our bodies still wrestle between old thinking and new thinking. Galatians 2:20 – I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me
God will grow us bigger as we realise who we are in Christ. God has taken this life and made it new…re-created in Christ. “taken this old skin and made it new again!”
Let us be a bigger person!
We are the people of God
He will do for our neighbours what he has done for us. The onus on us, the people of God, to believe that and to take action!
Acts 2:42 – They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer
His people are ‘devoted’ people
His people are ‘preachers’ – God is a preacher! “Light be” and light was. In the beginning there also came another preacher to deceive and to cause man to fall. There are many preachers today vying for our attention to distract us from what God is saying.
His people are in fellowship
His people break bread
His people pray
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
No Condemnation
At our evening service over the weekend Mark Wilkins spoke on the subject of ‘No Condemnation’ in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1 – Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Condemnation – critiscm that can stay with us forever. Condemned Buildings – that are not safe, useless, dangerous. Food – gone bad, poisonous.
We’re no longer in that place of condemnation because of God’s grace. However some people still live in that place, they can wear it as a badge. But GRACE is the interrupter of our lives, changes how we feel about ourselves.
Grace interrupts and changes the rules. You can change your situation – you are good enough.
Here are several things that should be interrupted by grace...
1) Burden Carrying
When issues have already been dealt with, healed, complete, finished, because of what Christ has done – don’t pick those things up again.
Put down the burdens and let grace interrupt!
2) Shame
Ashamed of who we are, of what we’ve done. But God has set you free. He’s not ashamed of you, he’s exactly the opposite.
Shame can be taken from us as we allow his grace to interrupt our lives.
Woman caught in adultery – Jesus interrupts her life with grace. He removed the shame. She was forgiven.
3) Having a ‘work-like’ theology
When we’re constantly working to please God. Striving to make him love us more. We’ve forgotten what grace is all about.
Grace is not a loophole in your relationship with God. It’s the only way! Yes work for God, but from the position of Grace. Relational.
Grace is not just a one-off but a constant daily thing.
Some symptoms of us allowing these three areas to govern our lives...
We fail to show grace to others – we find ourselves condemning other people.
They sap our ability, our energy and life. We become harder, less giving, less fun. Cold and religious. We feel like we’ve lost control, no longer in charge of our lives.
There is another way to live, where we’ve stopped thinking we’re no longer fit for purpose.
We are loved. Inhabited by the Holy Spirit. God lives in us.
Romans 8:2 - because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death
The opposite of being condemned and feeling condemned – we now have a life-giving spirit. Not striving in our own strength. Able to boast about what God has done for us. We give life to others as a result of this. We remain teachable – we learn and grow.
Romans 8:6 - The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Let the Holy Spirit control our lives – not allowing sin to reign. Let him be our compass. So when we stray from the map He guides us back onto the right track.
How do we ensure we live an uncondemned life? Knowing grace on a daily basis.
Be constantly thinking of grace. Grace is at the forefront of the Apostle Paul’s thoughts. “Grace and Peace to You…” - Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:3; Ephesians 1:3, Philippians 1:2
Grace was his starting point, his default position. Grace was the reason for everything he did. Made it his mission to share the good news of God’s grace.
Let all of our words and actions be shaped by grace.
This is our life assignment, to live in his grace and to share this with others – the reason for being.
What would a review of our grace life reveal? Our grace map?
Let his grace be visible in our lives and in every area. Let it be the forefront of our lives, our mission in life. As we live lives full of grace we will bear good fruit.
Galatians 5:22-23 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law
Romans 8:1 – Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus
Condemnation – critiscm that can stay with us forever. Condemned Buildings – that are not safe, useless, dangerous. Food – gone bad, poisonous.
We’re no longer in that place of condemnation because of God’s grace. However some people still live in that place, they can wear it as a badge. But GRACE is the interrupter of our lives, changes how we feel about ourselves.
Grace interrupts and changes the rules. You can change your situation – you are good enough.
Here are several things that should be interrupted by grace...
1) Burden Carrying
When issues have already been dealt with, healed, complete, finished, because of what Christ has done – don’t pick those things up again.
Put down the burdens and let grace interrupt!
2) Shame
Ashamed of who we are, of what we’ve done. But God has set you free. He’s not ashamed of you, he’s exactly the opposite.
Shame can be taken from us as we allow his grace to interrupt our lives.
Woman caught in adultery – Jesus interrupts her life with grace. He removed the shame. She was forgiven.
3) Having a ‘work-like’ theology
When we’re constantly working to please God. Striving to make him love us more. We’ve forgotten what grace is all about.
Grace is not a loophole in your relationship with God. It’s the only way! Yes work for God, but from the position of Grace. Relational.
Grace is not just a one-off but a constant daily thing.
Some symptoms of us allowing these three areas to govern our lives...
We fail to show grace to others – we find ourselves condemning other people.
They sap our ability, our energy and life. We become harder, less giving, less fun. Cold and religious. We feel like we’ve lost control, no longer in charge of our lives.
There is another way to live, where we’ve stopped thinking we’re no longer fit for purpose.
We are loved. Inhabited by the Holy Spirit. God lives in us.
Romans 8:2 - because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death
The opposite of being condemned and feeling condemned – we now have a life-giving spirit. Not striving in our own strength. Able to boast about what God has done for us. We give life to others as a result of this. We remain teachable – we learn and grow.
Romans 8:6 - The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace
Let the Holy Spirit control our lives – not allowing sin to reign. Let him be our compass. So when we stray from the map He guides us back onto the right track.
How do we ensure we live an uncondemned life? Knowing grace on a daily basis.
Be constantly thinking of grace. Grace is at the forefront of the Apostle Paul’s thoughts. “Grace and Peace to You…” - Romans 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 1:3; Ephesians 1:3, Philippians 1:2
Grace was his starting point, his default position. Grace was the reason for everything he did. Made it his mission to share the good news of God’s grace.
Let all of our words and actions be shaped by grace.
This is our life assignment, to live in his grace and to share this with others – the reason for being.
What would a review of our grace life reveal? Our grace map?
Let his grace be visible in our lives and in every area. Let it be the forefront of our lives, our mission in life. As we live lives full of grace we will bear good fruit.
Galatians 5:22-23 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Living from a Place of Agreement
Great time in church today. We heard an excellent message from Pastor Brian Houston, Hillsong, about living from a place of agreement.
1 Corinthians 1:10-13 – I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptised into the name of Paul?
There will be things we will always disagree on…but there are things we can all agree on. Our faith in Jesus Christ being the main one.
The Apostle Paul was encouraging the church to agree, he’s talking about the church building fellowship and connection as they agree with one another.
So often we live small lives because we live out of disagreement and not from a place of agreement. A positive place to live where the name of Jesus is exalted. Disagreement can be destructive in families, at first it might start as a quiet rumbling that we feel and sense until it becomes visible. People can allow disagreement run their soul and to ruin their lives.
On the other side, the place of agreement will have an incredible impact on our lives and on the lives of others.
Three things about agreement:
1) Agreement is built around a common focus
Agreement was vital for the early church, bringing focus for the body of Christ, which was so important for their future. This is still true for us today.
In life it is powerful to live from a place of agreement. Example – a football match where the crowd share a single focus and yet they are all from different backgrounds.
Matthew 18:18-20 – “I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."
As we gather together around the name of Jesus sharing the same single focus in agreement we will accomplish great things.
We can get so locked into what we disagree about we lose focus and get nowhere. The opposite is true when we are in a place (like the church) where we can focus and agree.
It makes a difference in our lives as we live from a place of agreement, it opens doors, makes us new friends, makes us influential.
(Message) 1 Corinthians 9:19 - 23 - Even though I am free of the demands and expectations of everyone, I have voluntarily become a servant to any and all in order to reach a wide range of people: religious, non-religious, meticulous moralists, loose-living immoralists, the defeated, the demoralised—whoever. I didn't take on their way of life. I kept my bearings in Christ—but I entered their world and tried to experience things from their point of view. I've become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life. I did all this because of the Message. I didn't just want to talk about it; I wanted to be in on it!
Experience things from their point of view.
2) Agreement is not weakness or compromise
Paul kept his bearings in Christ. Jesus wasn’t weak…
Luke 11:37 – When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table
‘Go to the table’ – it’s not weakness but ‘meekness’. Humility is the secret of agreement, pride is the secret of disagreement.
Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be were they to become "unity" conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship. Social religion is perfected when private religion is purified. The body becomes stronger as its members become healthier. The whole church of God gains when the members that compose it begin to seek a better and a higher life. (AW Tozer)
We don’t lose our bearings in Christ, we don’t compromise and we are not weak when we live from a place of agreement.
3) Agreement places value on people
Luke 19:1-5 – Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today."
Jesus didn’t speak down to Zacchaeus he spoke up to him and went to his table.
Never speak down to people in the way we live our lives. Speak life to them!
Philippians 4:2-9
Live out of prayer and thanksgiving and agreement, not from a place of disagreement. Live lives that value humanity, lifting the lives of others.
1 Corinthians 1:10-13 – I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. My brothers, some from Chloe's household have informed me that there are quarrels among you. What I mean is this: One of you says, "I follow Paul"; another, "I follow Apollos"; another, "I follow Cephas"; still another, "I follow Christ." Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptised into the name of Paul?
There will be things we will always disagree on…but there are things we can all agree on. Our faith in Jesus Christ being the main one.
The Apostle Paul was encouraging the church to agree, he’s talking about the church building fellowship and connection as they agree with one another.
So often we live small lives because we live out of disagreement and not from a place of agreement. A positive place to live where the name of Jesus is exalted. Disagreement can be destructive in families, at first it might start as a quiet rumbling that we feel and sense until it becomes visible. People can allow disagreement run their soul and to ruin their lives.
On the other side, the place of agreement will have an incredible impact on our lives and on the lives of others.
Three things about agreement:
1) Agreement is built around a common focus
Agreement was vital for the early church, bringing focus for the body of Christ, which was so important for their future. This is still true for us today.
In life it is powerful to live from a place of agreement. Example – a football match where the crowd share a single focus and yet they are all from different backgrounds.
Matthew 18:18-20 – “I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."
As we gather together around the name of Jesus sharing the same single focus in agreement we will accomplish great things.
We can get so locked into what we disagree about we lose focus and get nowhere. The opposite is true when we are in a place (like the church) where we can focus and agree.
It makes a difference in our lives as we live from a place of agreement, it opens doors, makes us new friends, makes us influential.
(Message) 1 Corinthians 9:19 - 23 - Even though I am free of the demands and expectations of everyone, I have voluntarily become a servant to any and all in order to reach a wide range of people: religious, non-religious, meticulous moralists, loose-living immoralists, the defeated, the demoralised—whoever. I didn't take on their way of life. I kept my bearings in Christ—but I entered their world and tried to experience things from their point of view. I've become just about every sort of servant there is in my attempts to lead those I meet into a God-saved life. I did all this because of the Message. I didn't just want to talk about it; I wanted to be in on it!
Experience things from their point of view.
2) Agreement is not weakness or compromise
Paul kept his bearings in Christ. Jesus wasn’t weak…
Luke 11:37 – When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table
‘Go to the table’ – it’s not weakness but ‘meekness’. Humility is the secret of agreement, pride is the secret of disagreement.
Has it ever occurred to you that one hundred pianos all tuned to the same fork are automatically tuned to each other? They are of one accord by being tuned, not to each other, but to another standard to which one must individually bow. So one hundred worshipers meeting together, each one looking away to Christ, are in heart nearer to each other than they could possibly be were they to become "unity" conscious and turn their eyes away from God to strive for closer fellowship. Social religion is perfected when private religion is purified. The body becomes stronger as its members become healthier. The whole church of God gains when the members that compose it begin to seek a better and a higher life. (AW Tozer)
We don’t lose our bearings in Christ, we don’t compromise and we are not weak when we live from a place of agreement.
3) Agreement places value on people
Luke 19:1-5 – Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but being a short man he could not, because of the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today."
Jesus didn’t speak down to Zacchaeus he spoke up to him and went to his table.
Never speak down to people in the way we live our lives. Speak life to them!
Philippians 4:2-9
Live out of prayer and thanksgiving and agreement, not from a place of disagreement. Live lives that value humanity, lifting the lives of others.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Finding Grace
We heard an excellent message in church yesterday. Paul Benger spoke about 'Finding Grace'.
2 Timothy 2:1 - You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
John 1:17 - For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
It is an amazing fact that Jesus can balance grace and truth. He can speak truth into our lives while still loving us.
The definition of grace:
Favour (undeserved); A gift given; A supernatural enabling or position.
The truth is that we as humans find it easy to be strong in accepting condemnation, but difficult to be strong in accepting God’s favour.
Hebrews 4:14-16 - Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus completely understands us. He understands our temptations and there is no challenge that we face that Jesus didn’t face too. He overcame so that we could receive grace.
3 things that help us to find grace:
1) Keep our confession (v.14)
We need to keep our confession that Jesus is Lord. Jesus actually anticipates being Lord of our lives therefore we should have no other gods in our lives. Jesus Christ is our Lord and Master.
Hebrews10:23 - Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Because he is faithful we should keep our confession.
2) Let us draw near (v.16)
Are you drawing nearer to God today?
Let us draw near and find more supernatural enabling in our lives.
3) Let us have confidence (v.16)
God loves cheeky boys and girls – not disrespectful but passionate and fiery. When we need something God likes us to come with an attitude of expectation.
We all face challenges, but the champion spirit picks itself up and moves forward.
Habakkuk 3:17-19 - Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.
2 Timothy 2:1 - You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
John 1:17 - For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
It is an amazing fact that Jesus can balance grace and truth. He can speak truth into our lives while still loving us.
The definition of grace:
Favour (undeserved); A gift given; A supernatural enabling or position.
The truth is that we as humans find it easy to be strong in accepting condemnation, but difficult to be strong in accepting God’s favour.
Hebrews 4:14-16 - Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Jesus completely understands us. He understands our temptations and there is no challenge that we face that Jesus didn’t face too. He overcame so that we could receive grace.
3 things that help us to find grace:
1) Keep our confession (v.14)
We need to keep our confession that Jesus is Lord. Jesus actually anticipates being Lord of our lives therefore we should have no other gods in our lives. Jesus Christ is our Lord and Master.
Hebrews10:23 - Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. Because he is faithful we should keep our confession.
2) Let us draw near (v.16)
Are you drawing nearer to God today?
Let us draw near and find more supernatural enabling in our lives.
3) Let us have confidence (v.16)
God loves cheeky boys and girls – not disrespectful but passionate and fiery. When we need something God likes us to come with an attitude of expectation.
We all face challenges, but the champion spirit picks itself up and moves forward.
Habakkuk 3:17-19 - Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Saviour. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Transformation
A great message in church this morning from Simon Wood. He spoke on ‘transformation’.
God has done and is doing great things in our lives. He is the business of transformation. Our ultimate transformation is salvation through Jesus Christ. God is so gracious and good to us in that he has changed our lives in this way.
2 Corinthians 3:18 – And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit
God is transforming us into his likeness. It is an on-going process to reflect his glory and to bring us into his purposes. We will make mistakes along the way but God’s plan still stays intact and doesn’t suddenly disappear.
He chooses ordinary people to do extraordinary things!
When we feel we have lost that ‘first love’ when we first came to Christ we need to remember what God has done in our lives and where he has brought us from.
Romans 8:38-39 – For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
These verses truth and foundational, our default position in God and brings great strength to our lives.
God has great plans for our lives to see us grow and transform. The things he sees in us he sees them as good things, like a Father to his children he wants to encourage us to help us to grow.
Transformation is sometimes difficult and challenges will come, but let us keep pressing on.
We’re all on this journey of transformation.
Romans 12:2 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will
Transformation often means changing our thinking. We also need to remember that God’s will is good! Get a revelation of what God wants for us and of who we are in God.
The default position is that God loves us and has great plans for us. The way we think shapes our lives.
Proverbs 23:7 – For as he thinks in his heart, so is he
Our understanding of what God wants for us can be a little out of sync because of past experiences.
Don’t let negative thoughts be our default position, but what God has placed in your heart.
“I tell people: If you don't want to get into positive thinking, that's OK Just eliminate all the negative thoughts from your mind, and whatever's left will be fine.'' Bob Rotella, Sports Psychologist
Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
We have to be careful not to give negative stuff too much prominence in our lives. Often we build monuments to our negative experiences. We hold them against us to keep us held back life…but God doesn’t. Tear down those monuments and get rid of them!
Build positive monuments in your life of what God has done. As we destroy those things we’ve built up in our lives God will finish them off and wipe the slate clean!
To help us grow and transform we need to have good friends in our lives who believe in us and encourage us. They help us to get back on track when we have wandered off.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
As well as God transforming us we are also here to see our world transformed.
Matthew 5:14-16 – "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
How can I help transform my world?
- Be yourself, be real (people are drawn to that)
- Take an interest in what matters to others
- Make people valuable
- Build peoples lives, especially those who have their lives torn down
- Always be Hopeful
- Go the extra mile
- Share your faith and testimony with honesty at the appropriate time
- Pray for people
God has done and is doing great things in our lives. He is the business of transformation. Our ultimate transformation is salvation through Jesus Christ. God is so gracious and good to us in that he has changed our lives in this way.
2 Corinthians 3:18 – And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit
God is transforming us into his likeness. It is an on-going process to reflect his glory and to bring us into his purposes. We will make mistakes along the way but God’s plan still stays intact and doesn’t suddenly disappear.
He chooses ordinary people to do extraordinary things!
When we feel we have lost that ‘first love’ when we first came to Christ we need to remember what God has done in our lives and where he has brought us from.
Romans 8:38-39 – For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
These verses truth and foundational, our default position in God and brings great strength to our lives.
God has great plans for our lives to see us grow and transform. The things he sees in us he sees them as good things, like a Father to his children he wants to encourage us to help us to grow.
Transformation is sometimes difficult and challenges will come, but let us keep pressing on.
We’re all on this journey of transformation.
Romans 12:2 – Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will
Transformation often means changing our thinking. We also need to remember that God’s will is good! Get a revelation of what God wants for us and of who we are in God.
The default position is that God loves us and has great plans for us. The way we think shapes our lives.
Proverbs 23:7 – For as he thinks in his heart, so is he
Our understanding of what God wants for us can be a little out of sync because of past experiences.
Don’t let negative thoughts be our default position, but what God has placed in your heart.
“I tell people: If you don't want to get into positive thinking, that's OK Just eliminate all the negative thoughts from your mind, and whatever's left will be fine.'' Bob Rotella, Sports Psychologist
Proverbs 3:5 – Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
We have to be careful not to give negative stuff too much prominence in our lives. Often we build monuments to our negative experiences. We hold them against us to keep us held back life…but God doesn’t. Tear down those monuments and get rid of them!
Build positive monuments in your life of what God has done. As we destroy those things we’ve built up in our lives God will finish them off and wipe the slate clean!
To help us grow and transform we need to have good friends in our lives who believe in us and encourage us. They help us to get back on track when we have wandered off.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
As well as God transforming us we are also here to see our world transformed.
Matthew 5:14-16 – "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
How can I help transform my world?
- Be yourself, be real (people are drawn to that)
- Take an interest in what matters to others
- Make people valuable
- Build peoples lives, especially those who have their lives torn down
- Always be Hopeful
- Go the extra mile
- Share your faith and testimony with honesty at the appropriate time
- Pray for people
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Living for a Cause Bigger than Me
We continued our Rise and Build 2008 in church today. Paul Benger brought a great message entitled, ‘Living for a Cause Bigger than Me’.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 – He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men
Eternity is in our hearts. When we live for anything less we’re never satisfied. Eternal life has started already through our relationship with Jesus.
We live for a cause bigger than us.
Jesus Lived for a Cause
He came to earth on ‘purpose’. He lived for 33 ½ years, 3 ½ years of public ministry. He had been sent by God, the Father. Do we believe we have been sent also?
Our life is not a random event – nothing haphazard.
His Cause…
1) The Salvation of Men
John 12:27 – “Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour”
For this very reason…to save the world.
2) To be a King that Rules
John 18:37- "You are a king, then!" said Pilate. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
His purpose was to rule over our lives, to be Lord of our lives.
3) To build his Church and extend His Kingdom
Matthew 16:18-19 – And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
He came to fashion me, to equip me so that we could extend His Kingdom. It is Jesus that builds the church.
How Should we Live?
We live for the same cause, to see the salvation of people. To see Jesus being made Lord of their lives. To be a gathering of such people.
Jesus said, ‘As the Father has sent me so I am sending you’.
Live Saved and live Called
2 Timothy 1:8-10 – So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
Our calling is a life purpose and influence, reaching people.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (Amp) - He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men's hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end
He has put an eternal vision inside of our hearts…a holy calling, a calling from God. This calling embraces every aspect of our lives. Live ‘called’ right where you are in whatever you are doing. Be light, lifting the lives of others – building the church and extending God’s Kingdom.
Why Should we Live Called?
We could say it’s just down to obedience, or because God loves us and we want to love him back. But…
Hebrews 12:1 - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
3 things why we should live ‘called’…
1) Because of the great cloud of witnesses
Others have already run their race before us…they’ve finished their race. We’re not the first people to be running this race. But we are right here right now…it is our time. People have gone before us and that is why we are here today. We’re stood on their shoulders and they were people just like us. They witness to the fact that it can be done!
2) History and Heaven is waiting
Hebrews 11:39-40 –These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect
They’re waiting for us to add our bit…to press on further than has gone before. Getting ready for Christ’s return.
3) Living called has its reward
Hebrews 12:2 – Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God
We get to see lives changed. We get to leave a legacy…for generations to come!
Ecclesiastes 3:11 – He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men
Eternity is in our hearts. When we live for anything less we’re never satisfied. Eternal life has started already through our relationship with Jesus.
We live for a cause bigger than us.
Jesus Lived for a Cause
He came to earth on ‘purpose’. He lived for 33 ½ years, 3 ½ years of public ministry. He had been sent by God, the Father. Do we believe we have been sent also?
Our life is not a random event – nothing haphazard.
His Cause…
1) The Salvation of Men
John 12:27 – “Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour”
For this very reason…to save the world.
2) To be a King that Rules
John 18:37- "You are a king, then!" said Pilate. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
His purpose was to rule over our lives, to be Lord of our lives.
3) To build his Church and extend His Kingdom
Matthew 16:18-19 – And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
He came to fashion me, to equip me so that we could extend His Kingdom. It is Jesus that builds the church.
How Should we Live?
We live for the same cause, to see the salvation of people. To see Jesus being made Lord of their lives. To be a gathering of such people.
Jesus said, ‘As the Father has sent me so I am sending you’.
Live Saved and live Called
2 Timothy 1:8-10 – So do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord, or ashamed of me his prisoner. But join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Saviour, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
Our calling is a life purpose and influence, reaching people.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (Amp) - He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men's hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end
He has put an eternal vision inside of our hearts…a holy calling, a calling from God. This calling embraces every aspect of our lives. Live ‘called’ right where you are in whatever you are doing. Be light, lifting the lives of others – building the church and extending God’s Kingdom.
Why Should we Live Called?
We could say it’s just down to obedience, or because God loves us and we want to love him back. But…
Hebrews 12:1 - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
3 things why we should live ‘called’…
1) Because of the great cloud of witnesses
Others have already run their race before us…they’ve finished their race. We’re not the first people to be running this race. But we are right here right now…it is our time. People have gone before us and that is why we are here today. We’re stood on their shoulders and they were people just like us. They witness to the fact that it can be done!
2) History and Heaven is waiting
Hebrews 11:39-40 –These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised. God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect
They’re waiting for us to add our bit…to press on further than has gone before. Getting ready for Christ’s return.
3) Living called has its reward
Hebrews 12:2 – Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God
We get to see lives changed. We get to leave a legacy…for generations to come!
Monday, October 13, 2008
A City on a Hill
We began our two week Rise and Build series yesterday in church. Paul Benger shared an excellent message on the theme of ‘A City on a Hill’.
God is always wanting to move and he moves through people. That is how revival is often birthed through people.
We had a prophetic word about the church earlier on in the year…We are a city on a hill both physically and also prophetically. We are to be a church of influence, light shining in the darkness. A signpost pointing to a different way of life.
How much influence do you want us to have? How passionate are we about pressing forward?
We are ALL involved with what God is calling us to be…with a spirit of faith. The whole church rising up.
Matthew 5:13-16 – "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
You can’t keep it quiet! We are meant to be a generous people to lift the lives of others. The church is meant to be alive! ‘Jesus is the Light of the world’. We are meant to be a church full of vision…to be leading the way. Speaking into our world at all levels bringing hope and life.
The church is not meant to be a hidden, but living for Christ and a beam of light and hope.
John 8:12 - "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
Jesus is the true light of the world.
Never limit the number of people we are reaching. Our world needs LIGHT, it is lacking hope and meaning.
We are a prophetic sign. A sign reminds people that there is more to life. That as we live as the community of God’s people we speak to our world prophetically. That there is more to life than where they are at.
We have influence even as individuals. We are meant to be light, we’re not meant to exit the world but to influence the world.
Jesus has a big vision for his church, let us not be vision poor.
The church is meant to be…
- Contemporary and Prophetic
- A Biblical Community
- Celebrating its Citizens
- On a Mission
It’s not enough to be just contemporary…we have to be prophetic. To have influence, to engage our culture enough that our message can be heard.
Being contemporary is not removing our values and beliefs. It’s about living at the same time and still expressing our values and beliefs.
‘To be prophetic is to challenge contemporary values, culture and thinking and behaviour and point the way to something better – the Kingdom of God.’ Mal Fletcher
We are a Biblical Community – there is much communication tools today but not much community.
We are meant to be celebrating its citizens...
Romans 12:10 – Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves
Galatians 5:13 – You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love
Hebrews 3:13 – But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness
We are on a Mission...
The church is meant to be missional and attractional. To do everything with excellence that draws people to the light.
Realise that you are a missionary. We’re all sent, abroad and home. Mission begins with relationships and then evangelism which leads to faith.
God is always wanting to move and he moves through people. That is how revival is often birthed through people.
We had a prophetic word about the church earlier on in the year…We are a city on a hill both physically and also prophetically. We are to be a church of influence, light shining in the darkness. A signpost pointing to a different way of life.
How much influence do you want us to have? How passionate are we about pressing forward?
We are ALL involved with what God is calling us to be…with a spirit of faith. The whole church rising up.
Matthew 5:13-16 – "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.
You can’t keep it quiet! We are meant to be a generous people to lift the lives of others. The church is meant to be alive! ‘Jesus is the Light of the world’. We are meant to be a church full of vision…to be leading the way. Speaking into our world at all levels bringing hope and life.
The church is not meant to be a hidden, but living for Christ and a beam of light and hope.
John 8:12 - "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
Jesus is the true light of the world.
Never limit the number of people we are reaching. Our world needs LIGHT, it is lacking hope and meaning.
We are a prophetic sign. A sign reminds people that there is more to life. That as we live as the community of God’s people we speak to our world prophetically. That there is more to life than where they are at.
We have influence even as individuals. We are meant to be light, we’re not meant to exit the world but to influence the world.
Jesus has a big vision for his church, let us not be vision poor.
The church is meant to be…
- Contemporary and Prophetic
- A Biblical Community
- Celebrating its Citizens
- On a Mission
It’s not enough to be just contemporary…we have to be prophetic. To have influence, to engage our culture enough that our message can be heard.
Being contemporary is not removing our values and beliefs. It’s about living at the same time and still expressing our values and beliefs.
‘To be prophetic is to challenge contemporary values, culture and thinking and behaviour and point the way to something better – the Kingdom of God.’ Mal Fletcher
We are a Biblical Community – there is much communication tools today but not much community.
We are meant to be celebrating its citizens...
Romans 12:10 – Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honour one another above yourselves
Galatians 5:13 – You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love
Hebrews 3:13 – But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness
We are on a Mission...
The church is meant to be missional and attractional. To do everything with excellence that draws people to the light.
Realise that you are a missionary. We’re all sent, abroad and home. Mission begins with relationships and then evangelism which leads to faith.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Let us run...
We had a fantastic time in church yesterday. We had Roy Todd with us for both morning and evening services. In the morning he spoke about running the race with perseverance!
Hebrews 12:1 - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
Throw of the sin that so easily entangles us…unbelief or cynicism and negativity.
Faith is not cynical it sees the possibilities. That with God all things are possible!
Run with perseverance – keep believing what you believe. Keep doing the right things.
Keep the race going; keep on passing the baton…believing for now and for future generations.
We know that sometimes life is great and sometimes it is not so great…but we keep persevering.
A few things to help us in our race…
1) Don’t Limit God
Don’t limit God in the race he has marked out for you. He is the God of the impossible!
We need to check our thinking. It is often a battle of the mind. Are we limiting God?
Remember when he disciplines us he is wanting to bring the best out of us.
2) Learn to overcome your fears
Or your fears will overcome you and stop you reaching your potential.
It is not wrong to feel fear…but don’t submit to it. Submit to God instead. Sometimes we need to do it afraid. Don’t let your fears hold you back.
3) Know your identity
We need to like ourselves….God loves you! Do we expect too much sometimes? Let us remain teachable, we’re in it for the long haul.
Know who you are in Christ. We’re not here to prove something to others.
Never lose your sense of indentity. Keep on pressing on.
4) Have Faith
Keep positive. Bring the good report like Joshua and Caleb. The two spies who brought the good report as opposed to the ten spies who brought the negative report. The majority and not always right!
Don’t be people who complain.
5) Dare to believe for more than you’ve ever experienced!
Get out of your comfort zone and move into the new realm God has for you!
Hebrews 12:1 - Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us
Throw of the sin that so easily entangles us…unbelief or cynicism and negativity.
Faith is not cynical it sees the possibilities. That with God all things are possible!
Run with perseverance – keep believing what you believe. Keep doing the right things.
Keep the race going; keep on passing the baton…believing for now and for future generations.
We know that sometimes life is great and sometimes it is not so great…but we keep persevering.
A few things to help us in our race…
1) Don’t Limit God
Don’t limit God in the race he has marked out for you. He is the God of the impossible!
We need to check our thinking. It is often a battle of the mind. Are we limiting God?
Remember when he disciplines us he is wanting to bring the best out of us.
2) Learn to overcome your fears
Or your fears will overcome you and stop you reaching your potential.
It is not wrong to feel fear…but don’t submit to it. Submit to God instead. Sometimes we need to do it afraid. Don’t let your fears hold you back.
3) Know your identity
We need to like ourselves….God loves you! Do we expect too much sometimes? Let us remain teachable, we’re in it for the long haul.
Know who you are in Christ. We’re not here to prove something to others.
Never lose your sense of indentity. Keep on pressing on.
4) Have Faith
Keep positive. Bring the good report like Joshua and Caleb. The two spies who brought the good report as opposed to the ten spies who brought the negative report. The majority and not always right!
Don’t be people who complain.
5) Dare to believe for more than you’ve ever experienced!
Get out of your comfort zone and move into the new realm God has for you!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Burn Your Plastic Jesus
Another great day in church yesterday. Paul Benger spoke in the morning about us knowing the real Jesus.
Why have a plastic Jesus when you can know the real Jesus? (Song – ‘I don’t care if it rains or freezes as long as I’ve got my plastic Jesus’)
Many people have their statues, charms etc thinking they will help in their life. Why put your faith in all of that? People who have their plastic Jesus live life as they please.
Let us live for the real Jesus and his cause! He is real and full of grace and truth. He knows us and loves us. He is powerful and can change and transform us.
Why did Jesus come to earth? Matthew 5:17-18 – Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfil them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
Jesus fulfilled what was prophesied and anticipated. He became our prophet, priest and king. He’s not plastic, but very real and wanting us to respond to him because he loves us.
Jesus the Prophet
Jesus speaks over our lives. Speaking God’s word into our lives. He is bold willing to confront religion and sin. He’s not afraid to offend.
When he speaks to us our response is twofold. We submit or our hearts become hard towards him.
Jesus points us to his authority, ‘You’ve heard it said…But I say to you’.
Mark 1:22 - The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law
‘I tell you the truth’- Jesus said this many times. He understands us, knows how we feel…but he will speak the truth to us.
John 4:15-20
You have received the ‘real’ Jesus who will speak into our lives with authority. He’ll get to the real issue…it’s not grey or fuzzy!
‘You must be born again’
‘Repent and be baptised’
‘Go into all the world and preach the good news’
Jesus the Priest
He doesn’t just speak the truth but he SAVES us. He brings salvation to our lives. He is no cowardly prophet. He speaks the word and then gives his life for us.
The priest would offer up the sacrifice for the people.
Hebrews 4:14-16 - Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Grace is receiving what we don’t deserve, Mercy is not receiving what we do deserve.
Jesus continues to be our Priest, praying for us and making intercession for us.
Hebrews 7:25 - Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Jesus met with sinners, much to the annoyance of the religious leaders, and yet Jesus spoke the truth to them.
Luke 19:10 - For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost
Matthew 20:28 - Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many
Jesus the King
His speaking and serving goes into every area of our lives. His message was that ‘the Kingdom of God is amongst you’.
The early church declared that ‘Jesus is Lord’…which went against the Roman rulers who insisted that the words ‘Caesar is Lord’ be spoken.
He is a Prophet who speaks justly, He is Priest who serves humbly and He is a King who rules powerfully.
John 18:35-37 – "Am I a Jew?" Pilate replied. "It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?" Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place." "You are a king, then!" said Pilate. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
This is no plastic Jesus - He is King of kings and Lord of lords !
Right now we submit to his Lordship. He is Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God. Of the increase of his Government and peace there will be no end.
He rules over every area of my life…if we let him. Make him Lord of our lives.
Don’t follow a plastic Jesus. But receive Jesus as all three…Prophet, Priest and King!
Why have a plastic Jesus when you can know the real Jesus? (Song – ‘I don’t care if it rains or freezes as long as I’ve got my plastic Jesus’)
Many people have their statues, charms etc thinking they will help in their life. Why put your faith in all of that? People who have their plastic Jesus live life as they please.
Let us live for the real Jesus and his cause! He is real and full of grace and truth. He knows us and loves us. He is powerful and can change and transform us.
Why did Jesus come to earth? Matthew 5:17-18 – Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfil them. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
Jesus fulfilled what was prophesied and anticipated. He became our prophet, priest and king. He’s not plastic, but very real and wanting us to respond to him because he loves us.
Jesus the Prophet
Jesus speaks over our lives. Speaking God’s word into our lives. He is bold willing to confront religion and sin. He’s not afraid to offend.
When he speaks to us our response is twofold. We submit or our hearts become hard towards him.
Jesus points us to his authority, ‘You’ve heard it said…But I say to you’.
Mark 1:22 - The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law
‘I tell you the truth’- Jesus said this many times. He understands us, knows how we feel…but he will speak the truth to us.
John 4:15-20
You have received the ‘real’ Jesus who will speak into our lives with authority. He’ll get to the real issue…it’s not grey or fuzzy!
‘You must be born again’
‘Repent and be baptised’
‘Go into all the world and preach the good news’
Jesus the Priest
He doesn’t just speak the truth but he SAVES us. He brings salvation to our lives. He is no cowardly prophet. He speaks the word and then gives his life for us.
The priest would offer up the sacrifice for the people.
Hebrews 4:14-16 - Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Grace is receiving what we don’t deserve, Mercy is not receiving what we do deserve.
Jesus continues to be our Priest, praying for us and making intercession for us.
Hebrews 7:25 - Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.
Jesus met with sinners, much to the annoyance of the religious leaders, and yet Jesus spoke the truth to them.
Luke 19:10 - For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost
Matthew 20:28 - Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many
Jesus the King
His speaking and serving goes into every area of our lives. His message was that ‘the Kingdom of God is amongst you’.
The early church declared that ‘Jesus is Lord’…which went against the Roman rulers who insisted that the words ‘Caesar is Lord’ be spoken.
He is a Prophet who speaks justly, He is Priest who serves humbly and He is a King who rules powerfully.
John 18:35-37 – "Am I a Jew?" Pilate replied. "It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?" Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place." "You are a king, then!" said Pilate. Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
This is no plastic Jesus - He is King of kings and Lord of lords !
Right now we submit to his Lordship. He is Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God. Of the increase of his Government and peace there will be no end.
He rules over every area of my life…if we let him. Make him Lord of our lives.
Don’t follow a plastic Jesus. But receive Jesus as all three…Prophet, Priest and King!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Plugging the Leaks
Great time in church today. I spoke about plugging the leaks of our faith.
Many times you know, we beat ourselves up! Talking ourselves out of things. Abandon dreams…stop liking ourselves! But God does!
The truth is sometimes it feels like our faith is not great…like we’re in a downward spiral when we’re in tough times, we’ve made mistakes, and our faith takes a real battering.
Take a look at Abraham’s life.
Genesis 12:7 – The Lord appeared to Abram and said, "To your offspring I will give this land." So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him
Genesis 12:10 - Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while because the famine was severe
He didn’t last very long in his land did he? About 3 verses! God says all of this land belongs to you and then at the first sign of trouble he packs up and leaves! Have we ever been there?
Genesis 12:11-13; Genesis 17:15-19
2 major obstacles to our faith…they punch holes in our faith…it kind of like feels that faith is leaking out of us!
DEALING WITH THE FACTS
Hebrews 11:1 – Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see
2 Corinthians 5:7 – We live by faith, not by sight
You know…we get a dream, a hope in our hearts…this thing is for me…we’ve read something in the Bible. But we look around us…and we just don’t see it. We don’t see it in the physical world. It’s in our heart…but it’s not out there!
Abraham said, “Listen God, I’m 100! You’re telling me I’m about to have a son” – “I’m dealing with the facts here God…and it’s not looking good!” “She’s 90…I’m 100!”
We’re looking around us…we’re looking at the facts…trying to believe God for the answer.
God is saying, “Live by Faith”, we’re saying…”But I’m working with Sight!”
We find ourselves choking on the ‘reality pill’! On what we SEE. How will this ever get any better?
1) Clarify
At those times we need to get some CLARITY back into our sight! Refresh our vision.
If we’re having trouble believing what we do not see…we need to go back and check it out again, “What does God say about my life, about you?” His LOVE and his CARE for you. His PROMISES for you. Don’t rely on what YOU SEE…Rely on what HE’S SAID!
Romans 10:17 – So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God
2) Communicate
Talk to God. Abraham continually had encounters with God. God continued to refresh what he’d put in Abraham’s heart. We need that too. Ask God…and keep remembering God’s promises to you.
He want’s to come and encourage us…guide us…refresh our vision.
He speaks to us like that through our personal/private times with Him. But I also believe it is why he puts us within a family…the church! We communicate FAITH within a family setting also…we encourage one another. We put FAITH into one another!
3) Focus on Him and not the Facts
When we recognise His abilities we don’t get troubled by the facts. With God ALL things are possible! Nothing is too difficult for our God!
4) Realise that Tough Times are NORMAL
When we face a difficult time with the FACTS – this is normal! You’re ok. You’re not alone. We have tough times, we doubt. Tough times are normal because they change us…they make us grow.
Tough times focus us – on what we really believe…they refine us. Tough times keep us close to God – remind us of our need for him
FEAR
Fear works in TWO ways…
Firstly fear can produce negative faith. We can actually begin to believe that bad things are going to happen.
Remember, ‘Faith is the substance of things HOPED for’ - What are we expecting for the future? What are we believing for? Anxieties and fears can overwhelm us when we face a new challenge.
We can allow our fears to sabotage the future. Fear can keep us from trying or ‘having a go’…because we exaggerate the consequences and the threats.
Secondly, fear can produce negative conscience. Believing we don’t deserve good things to happen to us!
GRACE – undeserved favour of God! FEAR comes to try and invalidate God’s Grace and extinguish our FAITH.
False
Evidence
Appearing
Real
Water Walking and Fear!
Peter is another great example of dealing with faith ‘leakage’ – love the time he walked on the water!
Matthew 14:25-33
Here are some things you need to know about Water Walking:
Everybody has a boat - Your boat is whatever gives you a sense security.
It's what you're tempted to put your trust in, especially when life gets a bit stormy.
Keep your eyes on Jesus not the storm - When did Peter sink? When he 'saw the wind.'
We do this all the time. Maybe you're trying to do something new, a new course at college, a particular job, a new friendship, getting involved in a new activity.
At the beginning things are great…then reality sets in. You get some problems, some difficulties. Life's full of surprises so we should expect it, but somehow the trouble and problems take over - it's all we can think about, all we can see.
Because of the wind and the waves some of us never leave the boat. The problems put us off, 'better to stick with what we are doing now'!
Did Peter fail? No. Other than Jesus, he's the only man who ever walked on water. All of the other disciples would go on to say 'we saw someone walk on water' Only Peter could say 'I walked on water'.
He had an experience with Christ the others did not have. So, failure isn't sinking in the waves, it is never getting out of the boat!
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Guard your heart/mind against the ‘spirit of fear’, instead get God’s Spirit in you!
Spirit of Power
Through Christ Jesus, I can do anything God wants me to do!!!
Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!
Spirit of Love
At first glance, It does not seem that Love could be effective in conquering fear
1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love
Love for God and a love for others relieves our fears!
Spirit of a Sound Mind
Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is— his good, pleasing and perfect will.
When we think Biblically - we have a "sound mind".
Many times you know, we beat ourselves up! Talking ourselves out of things. Abandon dreams…stop liking ourselves! But God does!
The truth is sometimes it feels like our faith is not great…like we’re in a downward spiral when we’re in tough times, we’ve made mistakes, and our faith takes a real battering.
Take a look at Abraham’s life.
Genesis 12:7 – The Lord appeared to Abram and said, "To your offspring I will give this land." So he built an altar there to the Lord, who had appeared to him
Genesis 12:10 - Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while because the famine was severe
He didn’t last very long in his land did he? About 3 verses! God says all of this land belongs to you and then at the first sign of trouble he packs up and leaves! Have we ever been there?
Genesis 12:11-13; Genesis 17:15-19
2 major obstacles to our faith…they punch holes in our faith…it kind of like feels that faith is leaking out of us!
DEALING WITH THE FACTS
Hebrews 11:1 – Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see
2 Corinthians 5:7 – We live by faith, not by sight
You know…we get a dream, a hope in our hearts…this thing is for me…we’ve read something in the Bible. But we look around us…and we just don’t see it. We don’t see it in the physical world. It’s in our heart…but it’s not out there!
Abraham said, “Listen God, I’m 100! You’re telling me I’m about to have a son” – “I’m dealing with the facts here God…and it’s not looking good!” “She’s 90…I’m 100!”
We’re looking around us…we’re looking at the facts…trying to believe God for the answer.
God is saying, “Live by Faith”, we’re saying…”But I’m working with Sight!”
We find ourselves choking on the ‘reality pill’! On what we SEE. How will this ever get any better?
1) Clarify
At those times we need to get some CLARITY back into our sight! Refresh our vision.
If we’re having trouble believing what we do not see…we need to go back and check it out again, “What does God say about my life, about you?” His LOVE and his CARE for you. His PROMISES for you. Don’t rely on what YOU SEE…Rely on what HE’S SAID!
Romans 10:17 – So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God
2) Communicate
Talk to God. Abraham continually had encounters with God. God continued to refresh what he’d put in Abraham’s heart. We need that too. Ask God…and keep remembering God’s promises to you.
He want’s to come and encourage us…guide us…refresh our vision.
He speaks to us like that through our personal/private times with Him. But I also believe it is why he puts us within a family…the church! We communicate FAITH within a family setting also…we encourage one another. We put FAITH into one another!
3) Focus on Him and not the Facts
When we recognise His abilities we don’t get troubled by the facts. With God ALL things are possible! Nothing is too difficult for our God!
4) Realise that Tough Times are NORMAL
When we face a difficult time with the FACTS – this is normal! You’re ok. You’re not alone. We have tough times, we doubt. Tough times are normal because they change us…they make us grow.
Tough times focus us – on what we really believe…they refine us. Tough times keep us close to God – remind us of our need for him
FEAR
Fear works in TWO ways…
Firstly fear can produce negative faith. We can actually begin to believe that bad things are going to happen.
Remember, ‘Faith is the substance of things HOPED for’ - What are we expecting for the future? What are we believing for? Anxieties and fears can overwhelm us when we face a new challenge.
We can allow our fears to sabotage the future. Fear can keep us from trying or ‘having a go’…because we exaggerate the consequences and the threats.
Secondly, fear can produce negative conscience. Believing we don’t deserve good things to happen to us!
GRACE – undeserved favour of God! FEAR comes to try and invalidate God’s Grace and extinguish our FAITH.
False
Evidence
Appearing
Real
Water Walking and Fear!
Peter is another great example of dealing with faith ‘leakage’ – love the time he walked on the water!
Matthew 14:25-33
Here are some things you need to know about Water Walking:
Everybody has a boat - Your boat is whatever gives you a sense security.
It's what you're tempted to put your trust in, especially when life gets a bit stormy.
Keep your eyes on Jesus not the storm - When did Peter sink? When he 'saw the wind.'
We do this all the time. Maybe you're trying to do something new, a new course at college, a particular job, a new friendship, getting involved in a new activity.
At the beginning things are great…then reality sets in. You get some problems, some difficulties. Life's full of surprises so we should expect it, but somehow the trouble and problems take over - it's all we can think about, all we can see.
Because of the wind and the waves some of us never leave the boat. The problems put us off, 'better to stick with what we are doing now'!
Did Peter fail? No. Other than Jesus, he's the only man who ever walked on water. All of the other disciples would go on to say 'we saw someone walk on water' Only Peter could say 'I walked on water'.
He had an experience with Christ the others did not have. So, failure isn't sinking in the waves, it is never getting out of the boat!
2 Timothy 1:7 - For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
Guard your heart/mind against the ‘spirit of fear’, instead get God’s Spirit in you!
Spirit of Power
Through Christ Jesus, I can do anything God wants me to do!!!
Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!
Spirit of Love
At first glance, It does not seem that Love could be effective in conquering fear
1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love
Love for God and a love for others relieves our fears!
Spirit of a Sound Mind
Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is— his good, pleasing and perfect will.
When we think Biblically - we have a "sound mind".
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Strengthen Yourself
A great time in church on Sunday, Paul Benger spoke an excellent message in the morning entitled ‘Strengthen Yourself’.
1 Samuel 30:1-10; 16-24
David was at a low point in his life. He was on the run and had only 600 men and not the best but the ragamuffins of the army. They had come under attack from the Amalekites and lost everything including women and children.
Verse 6 – ‘David strengthened himself in the Lord his God’.
It was the turning point in his situation. David and his men retook everything the Amalekites had taken from them.
David had suffered great trouble throughout his life…the highs and the lows. Here he found himself in that place again.
What do you or I do when we find ourselves at low points? When we find ourselves in need of strength. Like David strengthened himself in God, do we need to know how to do this in our lives? Maybe we used to be able to do it but not any longer.
Maybe we blame others when the answer is what is on the inside of us. We need the presence of God inside of us. The atmosphere around us can be determined by not what’s going off around us but by what is inside of us.
How did David do it? To become strengthened by God rather than becoming cynical…to be strengthened in God rather being full of fear…to be strong in the Lord rather than blaming other people…to be strengthened rather than being depressed…to be strengthened in God rather than becoming bitter.
Before David could do anything, even pray, he strengthened himself in the Lord. Some other examples…
Psalm 59 – whilst being pursued by Saul
Psalm 56 – when imprisoned in Gath
Psalm 63 – hiding in the wilderness of Judah
Psalm 3 – whilst fleeing from his son Absalom
How did he do it?
1) David remembered the Power of his God
Psalm 63:1-2 – O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
We need to get our eyes off of ourselves and our own power and strength and get our eyes on God. When we are weak He is strong. We are finite God is infinite.
David knew this throughout his life and not just in times of trouble. It becomes a habit...remembering the power of God all the time.
Knowing the grace of God…He’s saved us!
Jeremiah 32:7 – I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
We need to remember the power of God. When there seems to be no way…He makes a way!
2) David remembered the Love of his God
Psalm 63:3 – Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you
Psalm 59:10 – In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies
When you remember the strength of his love…you become stronger.
We may change but he never changes, his love is constant. Our circumstances do not mirror God’s love but Jesus mirrors God’s love.
3) David remembered the Power of Praise
Psalm 63:3 – Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you
Better to praise God than be miserable! Better to praise than to worry.
Psalm 22:3 (KJV) – But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel
Can it be that we can be on the mountaintop when our lives are in the valley experiences? When our circumstances dictate we should be down and miserable. But we can live by faith praising God, trusting Him enjoying mountaintop living!
Praise magnifies God and tells us that we are the people of God. It changes the atmosphere. Praise is not the ‘fast song’. It is when our focus is on God and his greatness. A ‘roar’ of thanksgiving, a declaration that ‘He is mighty!’ That this is a life changing day a life changing moment.
4) David remembered the Presence of God
Psalm 59:16-17 – But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God
Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble
David remembered that whatever was happening GOD WAS WITH HIM!
5) David remembered to Prophesy
Psalm 59:10 – In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies
He knew how to strengthen himself in God by prophesying, speaking God’s word into the situation.
Strength rises as we speak God’s word over our lives, over our church. God will make a way!
Is there something we need to say today to our mountain, to our situation? Just like David let us remember to speak God’s word.
1 Samuel 30:1-10; 16-24
David was at a low point in his life. He was on the run and had only 600 men and not the best but the ragamuffins of the army. They had come under attack from the Amalekites and lost everything including women and children.
Verse 6 – ‘David strengthened himself in the Lord his God’.
It was the turning point in his situation. David and his men retook everything the Amalekites had taken from them.
David had suffered great trouble throughout his life…the highs and the lows. Here he found himself in that place again.
What do you or I do when we find ourselves at low points? When we find ourselves in need of strength. Like David strengthened himself in God, do we need to know how to do this in our lives? Maybe we used to be able to do it but not any longer.
Maybe we blame others when the answer is what is on the inside of us. We need the presence of God inside of us. The atmosphere around us can be determined by not what’s going off around us but by what is inside of us.
How did David do it? To become strengthened by God rather than becoming cynical…to be strengthened in God rather being full of fear…to be strong in the Lord rather than blaming other people…to be strengthened rather than being depressed…to be strengthened in God rather than becoming bitter.
Before David could do anything, even pray, he strengthened himself in the Lord. Some other examples…
Psalm 59 – whilst being pursued by Saul
Psalm 56 – when imprisoned in Gath
Psalm 63 – hiding in the wilderness of Judah
Psalm 3 – whilst fleeing from his son Absalom
How did he do it?
1) David remembered the Power of his God
Psalm 63:1-2 – O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.
We need to get our eyes off of ourselves and our own power and strength and get our eyes on God. When we are weak He is strong. We are finite God is infinite.
David knew this throughout his life and not just in times of trouble. It becomes a habit...remembering the power of God all the time.
Knowing the grace of God…He’s saved us!
Jeremiah 32:7 – I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
We need to remember the power of God. When there seems to be no way…He makes a way!
2) David remembered the Love of his God
Psalm 63:3 – Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you
Psalm 59:10 – In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies
When you remember the strength of his love…you become stronger.
We may change but he never changes, his love is constant. Our circumstances do not mirror God’s love but Jesus mirrors God’s love.
3) David remembered the Power of Praise
Psalm 63:3 – Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you
Better to praise God than be miserable! Better to praise than to worry.
Psalm 22:3 (KJV) – But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel
Can it be that we can be on the mountaintop when our lives are in the valley experiences? When our circumstances dictate we should be down and miserable. But we can live by faith praising God, trusting Him enjoying mountaintop living!
Praise magnifies God and tells us that we are the people of God. It changes the atmosphere. Praise is not the ‘fast song’. It is when our focus is on God and his greatness. A ‘roar’ of thanksgiving, a declaration that ‘He is mighty!’ That this is a life changing day a life changing moment.
4) David remembered the Presence of God
Psalm 59:16-17 – But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. O my Strength, I sing praise to you; you, O God, are my fortress, my loving God
Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble
David remembered that whatever was happening GOD WAS WITH HIM!
5) David remembered to Prophesy
Psalm 59:10 – In his unfailing love, my God will stand with me. He will let me look down in triumph on all my enemies
He knew how to strengthen himself in God by prophesying, speaking God’s word into the situation.
Strength rises as we speak God’s word over our lives, over our church. God will make a way!
Is there something we need to say today to our mountain, to our situation? Just like David let us remember to speak God’s word.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Stretch Enlarge Lengthen Strengthen!
Excellent time in church yesterday, both morning and evening (our new evening service began 6:30pm start) - Jeannie Benger shared a great message in the morning from Isaiah 54:2 about us becoming bigger people.
Isaiah 54:2 – Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes
God is saying I cannot fit what I have for you in the space provided…I need you to get bigger!
Stretch
Determine what our capacity is – how far are we stretching now? Our capacity is what is inside of us and not what we are seeing now.
Stretching is a challenge. The way we think is the way we are. See yourself as a winner.
God wants us to be constantly increasing, to see our vision expanded. He puts us in the right place with the right people to accomplish this. We need people that enlarge us. He wants our thinking to be bigger than what we see right now.
Enlarge
Enlarging is changing our thinking. We can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Jesus talked about us being like new wineskins able to stretch, to enlarge as he fills us. Let us not be restrictive by our attitudes but pliable, new thinking that helps to stretch us and enlarge our vision.
So often people stop running to win, they become fed up and tired, becoming inflexible. Like a long-distance runner we need to break through the pain barrier.
Sometimes we need to stretch beyond our comfort zone. We need to decide whether we are going to let God stretch us or not.
Stretch to accommodate the vision that God has given you. Stir up your hearts to make plans, and allow God to guide you.
Proverbs 16:9 - In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps
Dream God’s dreams!
Lengthen
To go further in our output and effort. Promotion doesn’t come from doing the bare minimum. That extra effort makes us winners…but it’s a choice.
Still need to remember to connect with the right people. Associate yourselves with wise and positive people. We need to run the race marked out for us, it’s our race different for everyone else’s, but having the right kind of people on the sidelines spurring us on!
Strengthen
God wants to strengthen us. He wants us to have spiritual strength and stamina. To workout…on his word, to seek Him.
Undisciplined athletes usually lose. We need to listen to God, not get too busy doing our own thing and failing to hear his voice.
His word shapes our lives. Discipline ourselves to listen to his word and to apply it!
We are born to win! The ability is there…we need to realise that!
Isaiah 54:2 – Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes
God is saying I cannot fit what I have for you in the space provided…I need you to get bigger!
Stretch
Determine what our capacity is – how far are we stretching now? Our capacity is what is inside of us and not what we are seeing now.
Stretching is a challenge. The way we think is the way we are. See yourself as a winner.
God wants us to be constantly increasing, to see our vision expanded. He puts us in the right place with the right people to accomplish this. We need people that enlarge us. He wants our thinking to be bigger than what we see right now.
Enlarge
Enlarging is changing our thinking. We can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.
Jesus talked about us being like new wineskins able to stretch, to enlarge as he fills us. Let us not be restrictive by our attitudes but pliable, new thinking that helps to stretch us and enlarge our vision.
So often people stop running to win, they become fed up and tired, becoming inflexible. Like a long-distance runner we need to break through the pain barrier.
Sometimes we need to stretch beyond our comfort zone. We need to decide whether we are going to let God stretch us or not.
Stretch to accommodate the vision that God has given you. Stir up your hearts to make plans, and allow God to guide you.
Proverbs 16:9 - In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps
Dream God’s dreams!
Lengthen
To go further in our output and effort. Promotion doesn’t come from doing the bare minimum. That extra effort makes us winners…but it’s a choice.
Still need to remember to connect with the right people. Associate yourselves with wise and positive people. We need to run the race marked out for us, it’s our race different for everyone else’s, but having the right kind of people on the sidelines spurring us on!
Strengthen
God wants to strengthen us. He wants us to have spiritual strength and stamina. To workout…on his word, to seek Him.
Undisciplined athletes usually lose. We need to listen to God, not get too busy doing our own thing and failing to hear his voice.
His word shapes our lives. Discipline ourselves to listen to his word and to apply it!
We are born to win! The ability is there…we need to realise that!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Connect
Paul Benger spoke an excellent message in church this morning on ‘Connecting’.
We can connect to negative things as well as positive things.
Where we connect is very important. When we make right connections we can be sure our landings will be ok! Our connections become the power that is at work in our lives.
As we connect with people of faith we feel lifted. God is able to speak to us through those connections.
Ezekiel 37:1-10
God asks Ezekiel – ‘Can these bones lives?
God also asks us as we look over our lives – ‘what can you see?’
God tells Ezekiel to speak to the bones - Ezekiel is going to be the answer. We are going to be the answer in our life and the lives of others.
God knows the answer – he wants us to know it. God can speak the answer but he wants us to speak it.
Vs 7 – God can make old bones live again. We have so many connection tools yet we still live in a world with so much disconnection. The answer to disconnection is two-fold:
1) Breath of God. We need to keep full of the Holy Spirit.
2) Connection. We need to love one another when we come together.
Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble
Genesis 2:18 – And the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a companion who will help him."
Hebrews 10:25 – And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
John 17:20-21 – (20) My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, (21) 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.
10 things that we can do in Connect Groups to help us to minister to one another
1) Celebrate the victory of others (Romans 12:10)
2) Don’t judge (Romans 14:13)
3) Accept one another (Romans 15:7)
4) Greet one another (Romans 16:16)
5) Serve one another (Galatians 5:13)
6) Put up with one another (Ephesians 4:2)
7) Forgive (Ephesians 4:32)
8) Speak to one another about God (Ephesians 5:19)
9) Put people at ease (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
10) Build people up (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13)
We can connect to negative things as well as positive things.
Where we connect is very important. When we make right connections we can be sure our landings will be ok! Our connections become the power that is at work in our lives.
As we connect with people of faith we feel lifted. God is able to speak to us through those connections.
Ezekiel 37:1-10
God asks Ezekiel – ‘Can these bones lives?
God also asks us as we look over our lives – ‘what can you see?’
God tells Ezekiel to speak to the bones - Ezekiel is going to be the answer. We are going to be the answer in our life and the lives of others.
God knows the answer – he wants us to know it. God can speak the answer but he wants us to speak it.
Vs 7 – God can make old bones live again. We have so many connection tools yet we still live in a world with so much disconnection. The answer to disconnection is two-fold:
1) Breath of God. We need to keep full of the Holy Spirit.
2) Connection. We need to love one another when we come together.
Proverbs 13:20 - Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble
Genesis 2:18 – And the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a companion who will help him."
Hebrews 10:25 – And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near.
John 17:20-21 – (20) My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, (21) 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.
10 things that we can do in Connect Groups to help us to minister to one another
1) Celebrate the victory of others (Romans 12:10)
2) Don’t judge (Romans 14:13)
3) Accept one another (Romans 15:7)
4) Greet one another (Romans 16:16)
5) Serve one another (Galatians 5:13)
6) Put up with one another (Ephesians 4:2)
7) Forgive (Ephesians 4:32)
8) Speak to one another about God (Ephesians 5:19)
9) Put people at ease (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
10) Build people up (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:13)
Monday, August 18, 2008
God Unlimited
Another excellent message in church yesterday morning. Paul Benger spoke on God Unlimited.
Isaiah 54:1-3 – (1) Sing, O barren woman, you who never bore a child; burst into song, shout for joy, you who were never in labour; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband, says the Lord. (2) Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. (3) For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.
Limitation is incredibly frustrating. We need to take the limits off of God in our lives. Our lives may feel limited at times - we can reach so high but no higher...so far but no further. It’s like living with a ‘limiter’ in our lives.
Don’t limit God. Never say ‘I will always be sick’ or ‘the church will never have influence’. Christian influence has led the way over the centuries. In medicine, caring, education, social justice.
God is saying, ‘don’t limit me’. How do we limit God? By not believing all that He said he would do.
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Take the limits off!
Two trains of thought - that God is sovereign, that He is in control. Also that God has given us responsibility for our world. These two thoughts have battled against each other through time. God wants to partner with us in seeing his will being done, that is why we pray ‘Your Kingdom come, Your will be done’.
Three promises from these verses in Isaiah 54 – the 3 E’s. God wants to...
Expand us – Our desire for the church is that we will grow, get bigger. That you will get bigger.
Empower us – power from His word for the whole week, the whole of the time.
Equip us – Equipped to live our lives.
- You shall expand, Matthew 19:26 - Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
- You will inherit, Isaiah 54:3 – We will inherit the nations
God is a rewarder. Luke 6:38 – Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
- You will inhabit the desolate place. God is a restorer. He restores broken lives, dreams, destiny’s.
5 things (from Isaiah 54:1-3) that help us to take the limits off God.
1) Get a bigger plot
A bigger footprint! See a bigger future…buy some land! Enlarge the place of your tent (Vs 2) A time to rejoice, to see what God can do. Prophesy it! Change your thinking (Romans 12:2). Bigger people build a bigger world. You need a bigger plot, we (the church) needs a bigger plot!
2) Do more
Or do something! Stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back (Vs 2) Remember though our identity is in God, not what we do. But to bring the Kingdom of God into our world, to see His will being done, has an incredible amount to do with what we do.
3) Be generous
Spare not (Vs 2) – live with a generous attitude and spirit. Don’t limit God...i.e. don't be limited because we don’t have.
4) Build lasting relationships with the right people
Lengthen your chords (Vs 2) – Together we take the Kingdom forward. We change into the people we connect with. The power of fellowship.
5) Stay loyal to your commitments
Strengthen your stakes (Vs 2) – stay loyal to the people God has put you with. Need to stay connected.
Isaiah 54:1-3 – (1) Sing, O barren woman, you who never bore a child; burst into song, shout for joy, you who were never in labour; because more are the children of the desolate woman than of her who has a husband, says the Lord. (2) Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. (3) For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities.
Limitation is incredibly frustrating. We need to take the limits off of God in our lives. Our lives may feel limited at times - we can reach so high but no higher...so far but no further. It’s like living with a ‘limiter’ in our lives.
Don’t limit God. Never say ‘I will always be sick’ or ‘the church will never have influence’. Christian influence has led the way over the centuries. In medicine, caring, education, social justice.
God is saying, ‘don’t limit me’. How do we limit God? By not believing all that He said he would do.
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Take the limits off!
Two trains of thought - that God is sovereign, that He is in control. Also that God has given us responsibility for our world. These two thoughts have battled against each other through time. God wants to partner with us in seeing his will being done, that is why we pray ‘Your Kingdom come, Your will be done’.
Three promises from these verses in Isaiah 54 – the 3 E’s. God wants to...
Expand us – Our desire for the church is that we will grow, get bigger. That you will get bigger.
Empower us – power from His word for the whole week, the whole of the time.
Equip us – Equipped to live our lives.
- You shall expand, Matthew 19:26 - Jesus looked at them and said, With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.
- You will inherit, Isaiah 54:3 – We will inherit the nations
God is a rewarder. Luke 6:38 – Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
- You will inhabit the desolate place. God is a restorer. He restores broken lives, dreams, destiny’s.
5 things (from Isaiah 54:1-3) that help us to take the limits off God.
1) Get a bigger plot
A bigger footprint! See a bigger future…buy some land! Enlarge the place of your tent (Vs 2) A time to rejoice, to see what God can do. Prophesy it! Change your thinking (Romans 12:2). Bigger people build a bigger world. You need a bigger plot, we (the church) needs a bigger plot!
2) Do more
Or do something! Stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back (Vs 2) Remember though our identity is in God, not what we do. But to bring the Kingdom of God into our world, to see His will being done, has an incredible amount to do with what we do.
3) Be generous
Spare not (Vs 2) – live with a generous attitude and spirit. Don’t limit God...i.e. don't be limited because we don’t have.
4) Build lasting relationships with the right people
Lengthen your chords (Vs 2) – Together we take the Kingdom forward. We change into the people we connect with. The power of fellowship.
5) Stay loyal to your commitments
Strengthen your stakes (Vs 2) – stay loyal to the people God has put you with. Need to stay connected.
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Handling Life's Storms
Great message in church on Sunday. Paul Benger spoke on ‘Handling Life’s Storms’.
Acts 27:27-44
We all face storms in our lives both literal (i.e. the kind that causes floods and blow our roofs off!) - to the more common ‘life storms’. Both types cause upheaval and are messy!
Some of the characteristics of storms - Unexpected, unfavourable, unpleasant and unpredictable.
We face storms relating to our health, finances, emotions, career, increased responsibilities.
God is with us, he wants to help us handle storms...to delivers us and bring us through them.
When storms come as Christians we need to rise up – to have a backbone. The Spirit of God is inside of us, don’t succumb to the spirit of the age. Take a stand.
Four important responses in the midst of storms:
1) Don’t Abandon Your Trust in God
Don’t look for a reason why – trust God. Don’t focus on your smallness, focus on the greatness of God. Paul – “God has shown me, no one will die’
Don’t rely on yourself – don’t trust in human wisdom, it’s flawed. Trust God – do it His way. You’re only ‘right’ when you agree with God – it’s time to change your mind! He is our deliverer!
The storm will reveal what’s inside of us. How much hope we’ve got, how much faith we’ve got, how much joy we’ve got.
The storm doesn’t reveal stuff for God to see – the storm let’s us know what we need in our life.
2) Don’t Abandon the Ship and Crew
(Vs 30-32) – Too many people jump ship when the storm comes. God wants us to draw closer. The best place to be when the storm comes is in the House of God.
When the storm comes don’t project your problems on someone else...and don’t think the grass is always greener on the other side.
A storm means that a better day is coming!
3) Don’t Abandon Your Faith
Don’t go into crisis or panic mode. What’s inside of us? Don’t abandon the things we are believing for. As well as starting new things...finish them!
Vision can sometimes shrivel up when a storm comes.
Hebrews 12:1-3 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jesus never backed off when he faced a storm.
Let the storm be the momentum that takes you to another level.
4) Don’t Abandon Your Mission
They stayed with the ship...until they’d accomplished their mission. Changes happen so that we can fulfil our mission.
Consider the changes that we are about to face as a church. It’s all about us fulfilling our mission. What God has called us to do at this time. To see His church built in this place
Let’s not abandon our mission!
Acts 27:27-44
We all face storms in our lives both literal (i.e. the kind that causes floods and blow our roofs off!) - to the more common ‘life storms’. Both types cause upheaval and are messy!
Some of the characteristics of storms - Unexpected, unfavourable, unpleasant and unpredictable.
We face storms relating to our health, finances, emotions, career, increased responsibilities.
God is with us, he wants to help us handle storms...to delivers us and bring us through them.
When storms come as Christians we need to rise up – to have a backbone. The Spirit of God is inside of us, don’t succumb to the spirit of the age. Take a stand.
Four important responses in the midst of storms:
1) Don’t Abandon Your Trust in God
Don’t look for a reason why – trust God. Don’t focus on your smallness, focus on the greatness of God. Paul – “God has shown me, no one will die’
Don’t rely on yourself – don’t trust in human wisdom, it’s flawed. Trust God – do it His way. You’re only ‘right’ when you agree with God – it’s time to change your mind! He is our deliverer!
The storm will reveal what’s inside of us. How much hope we’ve got, how much faith we’ve got, how much joy we’ve got.
The storm doesn’t reveal stuff for God to see – the storm let’s us know what we need in our life.
2) Don’t Abandon the Ship and Crew
(Vs 30-32) – Too many people jump ship when the storm comes. God wants us to draw closer. The best place to be when the storm comes is in the House of God.
When the storm comes don’t project your problems on someone else...and don’t think the grass is always greener on the other side.
A storm means that a better day is coming!
3) Don’t Abandon Your Faith
Don’t go into crisis or panic mode. What’s inside of us? Don’t abandon the things we are believing for. As well as starting new things...finish them!
Vision can sometimes shrivel up when a storm comes.
Hebrews 12:1-3 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jesus never backed off when he faced a storm.
Let the storm be the momentum that takes you to another level.
4) Don’t Abandon Your Mission
They stayed with the ship...until they’d accomplished their mission. Changes happen so that we can fulfil our mission.
Consider the changes that we are about to face as a church. It’s all about us fulfilling our mission. What God has called us to do at this time. To see His church built in this place
Let’s not abandon our mission!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Black Swan
Mark Wilkins spoke an excellent message in church today.
‘A Black Swan is a large-impact hard-to-predict, and rare event beyond the realm of normal expectations’. Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Black swans were discovered in Australia before that it was assumed that all swans were white.
Jesus is the ultimate black swan – meeting him is our breakthrough moment. We can no longer look back at our past and use it to predict our future. We become a new creation.
Luke 5:1-11
Jesus wasn’t what the people of his time expected. They were used to looking in the past to determine their future. Jesus was a surprise to them.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do everything through him who gives me strength
Ephesians 3:20-21 – Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Our dreams can be weighed down by us looking in the past. We have to look to our future through the eyes of faith.
More thoughts about ‘black swans’…
They are not always bad news
Strategic friendships are vital
Jesus has a plan
Faith is all that is required
Grace is in plentiful supply
Jesus blows away all of Simon Peter’s past experience (logical induction!) because he sends back out to fish again. Peter knows there are no fish but Jesus proves him wrong.
Unexpected happenings can be good opportunities - not negative! A crisis can be a great opportunity for us to step up a level.
James and John were faithful friends to Peter. We need to seek out those faithful friends in our lives.
Jesus is the name above all names! His plan for us will not fail. We need to stay faithful even though change is taking place in our lives.
His grace is sufficient during bad times. He’s always there to love and forgive us. To lift us up and put us back on track.
‘A Black Swan is a large-impact hard-to-predict, and rare event beyond the realm of normal expectations’. Nassim Nicholas Taleb
Black swans were discovered in Australia before that it was assumed that all swans were white.
Jesus is the ultimate black swan – meeting him is our breakthrough moment. We can no longer look back at our past and use it to predict our future. We become a new creation.
Luke 5:1-11
Jesus wasn’t what the people of his time expected. They were used to looking in the past to determine their future. Jesus was a surprise to them.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do everything through him who gives me strength
Ephesians 3:20-21 – Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Our dreams can be weighed down by us looking in the past. We have to look to our future through the eyes of faith.
More thoughts about ‘black swans’…
They are not always bad news
Strategic friendships are vital
Jesus has a plan
Faith is all that is required
Grace is in plentiful supply
Jesus blows away all of Simon Peter’s past experience (logical induction!) because he sends back out to fish again. Peter knows there are no fish but Jesus proves him wrong.
Unexpected happenings can be good opportunities - not negative! A crisis can be a great opportunity for us to step up a level.
James and John were faithful friends to Peter. We need to seek out those faithful friends in our lives.
Jesus is the name above all names! His plan for us will not fail. We need to stay faithful even though change is taking place in our lives.
His grace is sufficient during bad times. He’s always there to love and forgive us. To lift us up and put us back on track.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Seeing the Kingdom of God
Another great message in church yesterday. Paul Benger spoke on seeing the Kingdom of God with child-like qualities.
Luke 18:15-17 – People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
‘Like a little child’ – to see the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God, where God’s will and rule is in our lives, in this place...the church.
Jesus teaching was hope-filled, revolutionary. He is intricately involved with our lives.
If we are not careful we can miss the Kingdom of God. Some reasons why…
Familiarity – we can get familiar with things. This can cause us to miss the things. Preachers, scripture, people, jobs etc. Things can become too routine. Can stop us seeing God’s Kingdom at work.
Cynicism – A British trait. When someone accomplishes something, rises to the top, we’re waiting for them to fall.
Grumpiness – having a grumpy, negative outlook on life can cause us to miss the Kingdom of God.
Conspiracy Theory – where everybody is out to get me. We can get focused on little pockets of thought. We forget that Jesus is alive, He is Lord. Christ will put all things under his feet.
Lack of trust, this can lead us to missing God’s Kingdom.
Our church...where God is present and anyone can flourish!
As we take on more child-like qualities we will see more of the Kingdom of God in our lives.
Four child-like qualities to have in our lives...
1) Wonder
We can lose this as we get older, that sense of wonder. ‘You can never have worship without wonder’ (Paul Newbury)
God was able to turn darkness to light...take a barren earth and fill it with life. What wonder! Do we find things wonderful? God knew me...even before I was conceived!
We need to find things wonderful again.
God is with us where ever we go! Wonderful?
His will is that none should perish. God, through his Son, made a way to lift the lives of all...wonderful?
Psalm 139:14 – I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well
Psalm 139:1-6 – O Lord, you have searched me 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 know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in— behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Only God could do all of this – Wow!
2) Enthusiasm
The ability to get really, really excited! Some people find dreariness in everything.
Enthusiasm is from the Greek word, ‘En – Theos’ – in God, or inspired by God.
We miss God when we lose our enthusiasm for life. Enthusiastic people see more of the Kingdom of God.
3) Rest
Kids look amazing when they are asleep. Trusting in Dad and safe in his arms. Trust in God...stop worrying.
In the midst of chaos, connect with God, find that still moment. Know this, ‘God I know you’re planning good things for me!’
Psalm 131:2 – But I have stilled and quietened my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me
4) Trust
Psalm 37:3 – Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture
Believe that God is on the case...trust in Him.
Luke 18:15-17 – People were also bringing babies to Jesus to have him touch them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
‘Like a little child’ – to see the Kingdom of God. The Kingdom of God, where God’s will and rule is in our lives, in this place...the church.
Jesus teaching was hope-filled, revolutionary. He is intricately involved with our lives.
If we are not careful we can miss the Kingdom of God. Some reasons why…
Familiarity – we can get familiar with things. This can cause us to miss the things. Preachers, scripture, people, jobs etc. Things can become too routine. Can stop us seeing God’s Kingdom at work.
Cynicism – A British trait. When someone accomplishes something, rises to the top, we’re waiting for them to fall.
Grumpiness – having a grumpy, negative outlook on life can cause us to miss the Kingdom of God.
Conspiracy Theory – where everybody is out to get me. We can get focused on little pockets of thought. We forget that Jesus is alive, He is Lord. Christ will put all things under his feet.
Lack of trust, this can lead us to missing God’s Kingdom.
Our church...where God is present and anyone can flourish!
As we take on more child-like qualities we will see more of the Kingdom of God in our lives.
Four child-like qualities to have in our lives...
1) Wonder
We can lose this as we get older, that sense of wonder. ‘You can never have worship without wonder’ (Paul Newbury)
God was able to turn darkness to light...take a barren earth and fill it with life. What wonder! Do we find things wonderful? God knew me...even before I was conceived!
We need to find things wonderful again.
God is with us where ever we go! Wonderful?
His will is that none should perish. God, through his Son, made a way to lift the lives of all...wonderful?
Psalm 139:14 – I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well
Psalm 139:1-6 – O Lord, you have searched me 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 know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in— behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Only God could do all of this – Wow!
2) Enthusiasm
The ability to get really, really excited! Some people find dreariness in everything.
Enthusiasm is from the Greek word, ‘En – Theos’ – in God, or inspired by God.
We miss God when we lose our enthusiasm for life. Enthusiastic people see more of the Kingdom of God.
3) Rest
Kids look amazing when they are asleep. Trusting in Dad and safe in his arms. Trust in God...stop worrying.
In the midst of chaos, connect with God, find that still moment. Know this, ‘God I know you’re planning good things for me!’
Psalm 131:2 – But I have stilled and quietened my soul; like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me
4) Trust
Psalm 37:3 – Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture
Believe that God is on the case...trust in Him.
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Healing of Jairus’ Daughter
Great time in church yesterday. Paul Benger brought an excellent message about the healing of Jairus’ daughter.
Mark 5:21-43
In this story we get two for the price of one! We have the healing of the woman with the issue of blood and our main story, which is the healing of Jairus’ daughter.
There is a message hidden behind this story. The woman had suffered for 12 years and the daughter of Jairus was 12 when she died. 12 means covenant (12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles etc)
The woman represents the old covenant, dead religion – striving, struggling. Trying to be worthy. Finally she puts her faith in Jesus and is healed. We can never do anything to earn God’s favour; grace is poured out for all.
Ephesians 2:4-5 – But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions— it is by grace you have been saved
Anyone who puts their faith in Jesus Christ will live!
Romans 10:17 – Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ
Look at this...Jesus took three people to see Jairus’ daughter, Peter, James and John. Peter – Rock/Stone/Tablets – the law, James – Jacob, meaning surplanter or superseded, John – meaning grace. The Law is Superseded by Grace. Not through our effort.
The only way to God is through Jesus Christ.
There are three things that help us to receive from God from this story...
Jesus puts away the mourning and the unbelief. ‘Little girl I say to you arise’. God’s word will penetrate anything that has no life…even death, our difficult situations that seem impenetrable. He will create life in death.
Jesus put away the unbelieving
Jairus came to Jesus in ‘faith’. Jesus told him to keep believing despite the situation he was facing. As a church we need to keep believing.
There are facts and there is truth. The fact was the girl was dead. Jesus is the way the truth and the life. He brought life where there was death.
We can face the facts in our lives and yet we can still grow in faith. Fact = the current economy squeeze. The truth = My God is my provider! He is my redeemer, he turns things around. He takes a ‘mess’ and redeems it and makes it a ‘message’!
Let us keep ourselves in a state of believing.
Jesus put away the mockers
They went from crying to laughing and scorning.
Don’t sit in the seat of the scornful. They’re always sat at the sides, full of cynicism – unfruitful. They don’t see many miracles.
Have a pure spirit - let Heaven invade our lives.
Believe in people...put away that mocking spirit. Become like little children, experience the wonder and amazement of God again.
Jesus put away the mournful
Our emotions can rob us of that state of believing. We can always see things from a bleak and negative viewpoint. Our glass is always half empty.
Our nature in Christ should say, ‘isn’t it great what God is doing!’
Know that the answer is in Jesus Christ. Focus on Him, his redeeming power, his healing power.
Mark 5:21-43
In this story we get two for the price of one! We have the healing of the woman with the issue of blood and our main story, which is the healing of Jairus’ daughter.
There is a message hidden behind this story. The woman had suffered for 12 years and the daughter of Jairus was 12 when she died. 12 means covenant (12 tribes of Israel, 12 apostles etc)
The woman represents the old covenant, dead religion – striving, struggling. Trying to be worthy. Finally she puts her faith in Jesus and is healed. We can never do anything to earn God’s favour; grace is poured out for all.
Ephesians 2:4-5 – But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions— it is by grace you have been saved
Anyone who puts their faith in Jesus Christ will live!
Romans 10:17 – Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ
Look at this...Jesus took three people to see Jairus’ daughter, Peter, James and John. Peter – Rock/Stone/Tablets – the law, James – Jacob, meaning surplanter or superseded, John – meaning grace. The Law is Superseded by Grace. Not through our effort.
The only way to God is through Jesus Christ.
There are three things that help us to receive from God from this story...
Jesus puts away the mourning and the unbelief. ‘Little girl I say to you arise’. God’s word will penetrate anything that has no life…even death, our difficult situations that seem impenetrable. He will create life in death.
Jesus put away the unbelieving
Jairus came to Jesus in ‘faith’. Jesus told him to keep believing despite the situation he was facing. As a church we need to keep believing.
There are facts and there is truth. The fact was the girl was dead. Jesus is the way the truth and the life. He brought life where there was death.
We can face the facts in our lives and yet we can still grow in faith. Fact = the current economy squeeze. The truth = My God is my provider! He is my redeemer, he turns things around. He takes a ‘mess’ and redeems it and makes it a ‘message’!
Let us keep ourselves in a state of believing.
Jesus put away the mockers
They went from crying to laughing and scorning.
Don’t sit in the seat of the scornful. They’re always sat at the sides, full of cynicism – unfruitful. They don’t see many miracles.
Have a pure spirit - let Heaven invade our lives.
Believe in people...put away that mocking spirit. Become like little children, experience the wonder and amazement of God again.
Jesus put away the mournful
Our emotions can rob us of that state of believing. We can always see things from a bleak and negative viewpoint. Our glass is always half empty.
Our nature in Christ should say, ‘isn’t it great what God is doing!’
Know that the answer is in Jesus Christ. Focus on Him, his redeeming power, his healing power.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Following Life and all of His Friends
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Spoke in church this morning...A line from a recent Coldplay song from album Viva La Vida, Death and all of his friends - I don’t wanna follow death and all of his friends!
Today I want us to look at the kind life that Jesus is offering us.
Even before Jesus came to earth...God’s people were given the choice of the kind of life they could choose.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live
Don’t follow death and all of his friends!
Jesus said…
John 10:10 - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full!
What is the characteristic of a thief? He comes when we least suspect...when we are least prepared.
Their special mission is to rob you of God’s blessings in your life! The thief comes to destroy the peace, victory, confidence and success of a life lived in God’s abundance. These thieves are real and deadly to us!
FRIENDS OF DEATH…
Resentment – Bitterness
When we are offended or disappointed by others and allow the hurt to germinate in our hearts, bitterness and resentment will take root. Characterised by an unforgiving spirit. Generally negative, critical attitudes, bitterness and resentment are self-defeating. They will colour our thoughts and actions.
Ephesians 4:31-32 – Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you
Revenge – settling of scores
“I don't want a cycle of recycled revenge”
Romans 12:19-21, Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Revenge is taking matters into our own hands – forgiveness is releasing other from our judgement into the hands of the living God.
Regret – ‘what if’, disappointment, disillusionment
Living in regret allows yesterday to control your today – the past dominates the present and cause you to fear the future.
“If only. Those must be the two saddest words in the world.”
Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
A result of regret and disillusionment is apathy or inertia. We feel trapped in a place of never seeming to be getting anywhere. Despondent, dejected...at times feeling useless and ineffective. The thief of Inertia!
Resentment, Revenge, Regret – they leave us stuck in a place we don’t want to be in. It’s time to ‘take them off’, get rid of them! To let God rescue us from those things! Make our escape!
Follow ‘Life’ and all of His friends! Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth and the LIFE’
Friends of LIFE
Repentance
Repentance is an incredible word. It’s a scary sounding word and it’s a misused word. Repentance is a powerful, transformational.
Mark 1:15 - Jesus said, “The time has come. The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Jesus encourages us to turn away from the bad news...and turn to the good news, that God’s grace covers all our sin. True repentance is less about what you turn away from and more about what you turn to. It’s more about WHO you turn to!
Another friend of LIFE…
Today I want us to look at the kind life that Jesus is offering us.
Even before Jesus came to earth...God’s people were given the choice of the kind of life they could choose.
Deuteronomy 30:19 - This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live
Don’t follow death and all of his friends!
Jesus said…
John 10:10 - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full!
What is the characteristic of a thief? He comes when we least suspect...when we are least prepared.
Their special mission is to rob you of God’s blessings in your life! The thief comes to destroy the peace, victory, confidence and success of a life lived in God’s abundance. These thieves are real and deadly to us!
FRIENDS OF DEATH…
Resentment – Bitterness
When we are offended or disappointed by others and allow the hurt to germinate in our hearts, bitterness and resentment will take root. Characterised by an unforgiving spirit. Generally negative, critical attitudes, bitterness and resentment are self-defeating. They will colour our thoughts and actions.
Ephesians 4:31-32 – Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you
Revenge – settling of scores
“I don't want a cycle of recycled revenge”
Romans 12:19-21, Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Revenge is taking matters into our own hands – forgiveness is releasing other from our judgement into the hands of the living God.
Regret – ‘what if’, disappointment, disillusionment
Living in regret allows yesterday to control your today – the past dominates the present and cause you to fear the future.
“If only. Those must be the two saddest words in the world.”
Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
A result of regret and disillusionment is apathy or inertia. We feel trapped in a place of never seeming to be getting anywhere. Despondent, dejected...at times feeling useless and ineffective. The thief of Inertia!
Resentment, Revenge, Regret – they leave us stuck in a place we don’t want to be in. It’s time to ‘take them off’, get rid of them! To let God rescue us from those things! Make our escape!
Follow ‘Life’ and all of His friends! Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth and the LIFE’
Friends of LIFE
Repentance
Repentance is an incredible word. It’s a scary sounding word and it’s a misused word. Repentance is a powerful, transformational.
Mark 1:15 - Jesus said, “The time has come. The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Jesus encourages us to turn away from the bad news...and turn to the good news, that God’s grace covers all our sin. True repentance is less about what you turn away from and more about what you turn to. It’s more about WHO you turn to!
Another friend of LIFE…
Renewal – change your thinking!
Romans 12:2 ‘And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.’
Let us believe the Truth contained in God’s Word and to live in the victory of God’s promises. If I’m not careful I can allow myself to live according to who I think I am and yet it is so liberating to live according to who God says I am.
Guard your hearts and minds by thinking about the right kind of things:
Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or admirable think about such things.
Another Friend of LIFE...
Rejoicing – power of praise!
Paul throughout his life emphasised the positive. He practised the praise principle. Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
(1) Practice giving thanks in every circumstance for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22)
(2) Surround yourself with positive people
When you are surrounded by positive people you can turn obstacles into opportunities. Paul surrounded himself with a team of positive people.
Finally...
Those who follow Life and all of His friends...is a Life-Giver! Jesus the Life-Giver.
As we receive this abundance of life...be a friend to it and “Give it away!”
Our desire is to be a ‘life-giving church’
2 Corinthians 3:6 ‘He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant-not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life’
1 Corinthians 15:45 ‘So it is written: The first man Adam became a living being; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit.
1 John 4:17 ‘As He is - so are we in this world’
Give life to those around you - set the tone for life! Let us follow Jesus, his example, follow his friends...of repentance, renewal and rejoicing. AND as he lifts our lives…let us lift the lives of others. Give LIFE to those around you.
Romans 12:2 ‘And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.’
Let us believe the Truth contained in God’s Word and to live in the victory of God’s promises. If I’m not careful I can allow myself to live according to who I think I am and yet it is so liberating to live according to who God says I am.
Guard your hearts and minds by thinking about the right kind of things:
Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or admirable think about such things.
Another Friend of LIFE...
Rejoicing – power of praise!
Paul throughout his life emphasised the positive. He practised the praise principle. Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”
(1) Practice giving thanks in every circumstance for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22)
(2) Surround yourself with positive people
When you are surrounded by positive people you can turn obstacles into opportunities. Paul surrounded himself with a team of positive people.
Finally...
Those who follow Life and all of His friends...is a Life-Giver! Jesus the Life-Giver.
As we receive this abundance of life...be a friend to it and “Give it away!”
Our desire is to be a ‘life-giving church’
2 Corinthians 3:6 ‘He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant-not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life’
1 Corinthians 15:45 ‘So it is written: The first man Adam became a living being; the last Adam, a life-giving spirit.
1 John 4:17 ‘As He is - so are we in this world’
Give life to those around you - set the tone for life! Let us follow Jesus, his example, follow his friends...of repentance, renewal and rejoicing. AND as he lifts our lives…let us lift the lives of others. Give LIFE to those around you.
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