What a great morning at CLC! Paul Benger shared an excellent message about 'when ordinary people pray'.
There is nothing boring about prayer...it's not a task, chore
Ordinary people connecting with an extraordinary God
James 5:13-18
When ordinary people pray extraordinary things happen
Matthew 16:19
Don't ever think prayer is ineffective, prayer changes things...things happen in Heaven and on the earth. We've seen incredible answers to prayer
Pray is multi dimentional...
PRAISE
Psalm 100:4
Praise is not boring! It's an opportunity to bring our thanks to an amazing God for who he is and for all he has done
STILLNESS
Pslam 46:10
There is a time to be still, not to worry...but know that He is God
CONFIDENCE
1 John 5:14-15
Ask...be confident, ask and keep on asking
MEDITATION
Psalm 119:14
Think about it and think about it again...meditate!
Chew it over. Turn over his thoughts in your life
DESPERATION
Psalm 34:17
Not just emotion but be desperate for the things of God
Content BUT wanting more!
Effective prayer is Transparent
James 5:16
Be real! Be able to say to your friends I got this right I got this wrong
When ordinary people pray extraordinary things happen
Be authentic...things happen!
Psalm 139:23
Don't get so religious about pray...more imperfect people in church...finding healing and wholeness
Psalm 14:4
When ordinary people pray with humility and transparency extraordinary things happen
Effective prayer is Unselfish
James 5:16
Pray for others so that you might be healed!
Effective prayer knows it's authority
James 5:16
What makes prayer effective?
Is it eloquence? No
The length of the prayer? No
Is it telling God and everybody else everything...all the detail? No
The most effective prayer...just ask the Father in the name of Jesus
It's ok to pray about the things we don't have....resources, confidence etc As long as we say BUT with what I do have I give to you! Here I am...
Effective prayer is Fervent
James 5:16
What is fervency? It's passion yes, but it is indignation. This is not right I want to see it changed. When were we last indignant? God doesn't think it's right too...so we ask and keep asking until it changes
Effective prayer is Righteous
James 5:16
Our righteouness comes from God...it's not about how good we are. Knowing that we are forgiven.
Sin...I'm a sinner. We need help, we need God in our lives. Find forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ. We are not left unrighteous...made right in him.
Extraordinary things happen when ordinary people pray effective prayers.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
When Ordinary People Connect
Another great morning in church. Mark Wilkins spoke on "When Ordinary People...Connect", the third message in this series.
True connections go beyond simple communication. When ordinary people connect extraordinary things happen.
Thd Ordinary life is important to God, the mundane, the everday stuff...that is where we practice our faith! Don't get caught up in the big events! It's in the space of the everday where God wants to walk with us. He's interested in YOU!
Ruth 1:1-22 - Great connection - vs 14
Ruth 2:1-23
Everday, ordinary, mundane life....story of Ruth. Why was her story important? God connections. Ruth gave birth to Obed...the father of Jesse, the father of David. All from Ruth's life of remaining connected! Used by God to bring Jesus into the world! Marriage is an ordinary connection where incredible extraordinary things can happen.
Acts 2:13-17 Ordinary men, nobodies! Yet the rulers and authorities saw the extraordinary impact they were having on the people
Jesus saw something special in the lives of these ordinary guys
Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:1-3) - God calls the two of them, he calls people together to partner for establishing his church. They went together.
The church today is like that God calling us together 0rdinay people connecting seeing the extraordinary happen
Disconnection is what the devil wants. Loneliness, divorce, relationship breakdown
Luke 8:29- We're not called to live disconnected lives
We're called to be connected to people...do life together.
How do we get better at connecting? Principles of great connections...
1. Connecting is all about others - putting others first
Supporting other people. Peter and John gave up their fish, careers, to follow Jesus
2. Connecting is about finding common ground
What are we both interested in, our purpose, doing life together. Find common ground with the people
3. Connecting requires effort/energy
Go to connect groups, put the time in, invest. Ruth put the energy and effort into her connections. Peter and John gave their all, as did Paul and Barnabas in building the church!
God uses these ordinary connections and does the extraordinary the miraculous! God uses the ordinary!
True connections go beyond simple communication. When ordinary people connect extraordinary things happen.
Thd Ordinary life is important to God, the mundane, the everday stuff...that is where we practice our faith! Don't get caught up in the big events! It's in the space of the everday where God wants to walk with us. He's interested in YOU!
Ruth 1:1-22 - Great connection - vs 14
Ruth 2:1-23
Everday, ordinary, mundane life....story of Ruth. Why was her story important? God connections. Ruth gave birth to Obed...the father of Jesse, the father of David. All from Ruth's life of remaining connected! Used by God to bring Jesus into the world! Marriage is an ordinary connection where incredible extraordinary things can happen.
Acts 2:13-17 Ordinary men, nobodies! Yet the rulers and authorities saw the extraordinary impact they were having on the people
Jesus saw something special in the lives of these ordinary guys
Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:1-3) - God calls the two of them, he calls people together to partner for establishing his church. They went together.
The church today is like that God calling us together 0rdinay people connecting seeing the extraordinary happen
Disconnection is what the devil wants. Loneliness, divorce, relationship breakdown
Luke 8:29- We're not called to live disconnected lives
We're called to be connected to people...do life together.
How do we get better at connecting? Principles of great connections...
1. Connecting is all about others - putting others first
Supporting other people. Peter and John gave up their fish, careers, to follow Jesus
2. Connecting is about finding common ground
What are we both interested in, our purpose, doing life together. Find common ground with the people
3. Connecting requires effort/energy
Go to connect groups, put the time in, invest. Ruth put the energy and effort into her connections. Peter and John gave their all, as did Paul and Barnabas in building the church!
God uses these ordinary connections and does the extraordinary the miraculous! God uses the ordinary!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
When Ordinary People Receive and Give
Great morning in church. CLC was full-on! Paul Benger continued this excellent series, When Ordinary People....
When Ordinary People receive & give...Extraordinary things can happen!
Matthew 25:14-30
The master gives talents! Each according to their ability...how our spirit our attitude is.
Romans 12:6-8...give generously! Cheerfully! How we will give...not just what will we give.
Having a spirit of faith...that it will grow and multiply. Have a spirit of generosity
Being merciful...cheerfully, not begrudgingly. Steward the gifts well that he has given to us, this new life that we have been given. See the gift as a blessing not as a burden (don't bury it!)
1 Peter 3:4 - Inner self beauty...not just outward
Psalm 51:12
God is generous and he is willing...not stingy! What is in our spirit? Don't underestimate the value that your spirit brings. Extraordinary things happen when you and I receive and give.
God even believes in the one talent person (only he didn't believe in himself)
We can't allow negative things to control our spirit. Know that God believes in you!
Three things that helps us live in a right spirit...
1. Live with a spirit that recognises the masters goodness
Don't get a wrong view of the master (like the guy in our story) See God right and we'll begin to live right
Psalm 119:68 - you are good and you do good!
Psalm 11:7
Hebrews 11:6
God takes something small and grows it...we've had something small and insignificant and by faith seen it grow. Look for life hope and opportunity...
2. Live with a spirit that freely receives and freely gives
Matthew 10:8
We can find gifts difficult to receive. Is there something that flows from God to you today so that you can give? Jesus says give and it shall be given to you
3. Live with a spirit that's committed to advancing the masters kingdom
Church is all about God and people. Live with a spirit that knows what matters to God, what is right. It is people! The poor, physically and spiritually.
Mark 14:3-7
Let's live committed to building the Masters Kingdom. Committed to both the physical and spiritual poor!
When Ordinary People receive & give...Extraordinary things can happen!
Matthew 25:14-30
The master gives talents! Each according to their ability...how our spirit our attitude is.
Romans 12:6-8...give generously! Cheerfully! How we will give...not just what will we give.
Having a spirit of faith...that it will grow and multiply. Have a spirit of generosity
Being merciful...cheerfully, not begrudgingly. Steward the gifts well that he has given to us, this new life that we have been given. See the gift as a blessing not as a burden (don't bury it!)
1 Peter 3:4 - Inner self beauty...not just outward
Psalm 51:12
God is generous and he is willing...not stingy! What is in our spirit? Don't underestimate the value that your spirit brings. Extraordinary things happen when you and I receive and give.
God even believes in the one talent person (only he didn't believe in himself)
We can't allow negative things to control our spirit. Know that God believes in you!
Three things that helps us live in a right spirit...
1. Live with a spirit that recognises the masters goodness
Don't get a wrong view of the master (like the guy in our story) See God right and we'll begin to live right
Psalm 119:68 - you are good and you do good!
Psalm 11:7
Hebrews 11:6
God takes something small and grows it...we've had something small and insignificant and by faith seen it grow. Look for life hope and opportunity...
2. Live with a spirit that freely receives and freely gives
Matthew 10:8
We can find gifts difficult to receive. Is there something that flows from God to you today so that you can give? Jesus says give and it shall be given to you
3. Live with a spirit that's committed to advancing the masters kingdom
Church is all about God and people. Live with a spirit that knows what matters to God, what is right. It is people! The poor, physically and spiritually.
Mark 14:3-7
Let's live committed to building the Masters Kingdom. Committed to both the physical and spiritual poor!
Sunday, July 04, 2010
When Ordinary People Serve
Fabulous morning in Church. We began a new series, When Ordinary People.... Nathan Benger started it off with an excellent message, When Ordinary People Serve.
Extraordinary things happen...when people serve
Ordinary people, normal! When ordinary people give
The servant heart of the ordinary opens up the expansive life in God
God gave Abraham a dream... The impossible to be made possibe
He gives us dreams...making the impossible possible!
Hebrews 11:8-12
Seemingly impossible God connected the power of possibility
Vs 9 he was living in a tent! Ever camped?! Nothing like living in a tent to connect with the ground...with the dust
1. The dust of the ground is the domain of servants
(the stars for the kings and princes)
When we serve we become the perfect fit for all of his plans and purposes
Matt 20:26-28
Jesus came to serve not to be served
We often aquaint being a servant as being at the bottom...working our way up
2. The dust of the ground is where great things happen
Don't underestimTe what God can do with you and I
That is where the servant nature begins in the dust of the ground
Servant heart is a sacrificial heart
Proverbs 18:16
Expansiveness comes from a giving heart
Prov 25:6...humility
Greatness is ground out in the heart of a servant
Prov 11:24
Servant heart is a heart of humility
Matt 23:12
He that is faithful in little will be faithful in much
Learn to be a servant to be great
Pslam 112:9
If you have a dream serve. Don't underestimate the power of servanthood
3. The principle of the dust never changes
Sowing and reaping...this never changes. What got you where you are will keep you there.
In the dust the ordinary becomes the extraordinary!
If we have a servant heart when we approach the day to day mundane we will see the extraordinary, the great!
Jesus came to serve and was exalted
Don't loose sight of this.
Not from the ground up but from a position of kingship.
See the potential in each one of us as we serve the vision of this church
We want to see lives equipped and realeased to serve Christ and the vision of the house
Let people see the servant heart of this house
When you see people rise up from the position of a servant heart...the spirit to serve the whole body of Christ, great things will happen
Pray that we will be people that recognise that as we serve faithfully God will turn the ordinary into the extraordinary!
Extraordinary things happen...when people serve
Ordinary people, normal! When ordinary people give
The servant heart of the ordinary opens up the expansive life in God
God gave Abraham a dream... The impossible to be made possibe
He gives us dreams...making the impossible possible!
Hebrews 11:8-12
Seemingly impossible God connected the power of possibility
Vs 9 he was living in a tent! Ever camped?! Nothing like living in a tent to connect with the ground...with the dust
1. The dust of the ground is the domain of servants
(the stars for the kings and princes)
When we serve we become the perfect fit for all of his plans and purposes
Matt 20:26-28
Jesus came to serve not to be served
We often aquaint being a servant as being at the bottom...working our way up
2. The dust of the ground is where great things happen
Don't underestimTe what God can do with you and I
That is where the servant nature begins in the dust of the ground
Servant heart is a sacrificial heart
Proverbs 18:16
Expansiveness comes from a giving heart
Prov 25:6...humility
Greatness is ground out in the heart of a servant
Prov 11:24
Servant heart is a heart of humility
Matt 23:12
He that is faithful in little will be faithful in much
Learn to be a servant to be great
Pslam 112:9
If you have a dream serve. Don't underestimate the power of servanthood
3. The principle of the dust never changes
Sowing and reaping...this never changes. What got you where you are will keep you there.
In the dust the ordinary becomes the extraordinary!
If we have a servant heart when we approach the day to day mundane we will see the extraordinary, the great!
Jesus came to serve and was exalted
Don't loose sight of this.
Not from the ground up but from a position of kingship.
See the potential in each one of us as we serve the vision of this church
We want to see lives equipped and realeased to serve Christ and the vision of the house
Let people see the servant heart of this house
When you see people rise up from the position of a servant heart...the spirit to serve the whole body of Christ, great things will happen
Pray that we will be people that recognise that as we serve faithfully God will turn the ordinary into the extraordinary!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
One Prayer - Unstoppable Presence
Great morning at CLC, our final message from the One Prayer series. Paul Benger spoke about Unstoppable Presence.
When we realise that God is with us there is an unstoppable quality...unstoppable presence
John 5:1-15 (NLT)
People travel even today to places looking for a special touch from God...buy holy water!
Pool people or presence people?
Presence people believe that God is with them.
Presence people are unstoppable!
Pool people...are going to be there for a very long time...waiting meetings
Just receive!
Pool people have a negative perspective...I can't, fear, can't go forward, expect the worse, no way not me...I'm excluded
No friend to help me
Presence people believe that God is with them
Pool people - excuse ridden, find all the reasons not to...blame others. Presence thinking...this is the day! Pool people are stuck in the past.
Jesus says 3 things...(for Presence People)
1. Presence People have vision, kingdom values believing for kingdom things
Jesus sees our predicament but that's not all he sees there is always a better day!
You are this now BUT you will be...he knows everything about us.
Pray your kingdom come...visionary statement. We see this now but look at what's about to happen! The best is yet to come!
2. Presence People take God at his word
Pool people say why not, why they can't. God says why not?
Take Jesus at his word...follow me, trust...live out the word of God in our lives.
This man was healed on the Sabbath... Broke the rules! All they could see was that he'd done it on the wrong day. What an awful way to live...Jesus was showing us the generous heart of God. Not restricting, legalistic...but freedom for the captives sight for the blind! Word of God is generous.
3. Presence People believe choices are more powerful than curses
Curses passed down...believe in this system.
Jesus says you are free now go and sin no more.
What you choose today will either set you free or bind you
He gives us the power to make good choices
Choose life that you might live
Pool people blame their circumstances
Presence People make the right choices despite their circumstances
Jesus wants us to know the power of choices today
Choose your attitude today
Choose your countenance today
Choose your disposition today
Pool people can act like victims
Choose life because that's what presence people do!
When we realise that God is with us there is an unstoppable quality...unstoppable presence
John 5:1-15 (NLT)
People travel even today to places looking for a special touch from God...buy holy water!
Pool people or presence people?
Presence people believe that God is with them.
Presence people are unstoppable!
Pool people...are going to be there for a very long time...waiting meetings
Just receive!
Pool people have a negative perspective...I can't, fear, can't go forward, expect the worse, no way not me...I'm excluded
No friend to help me
Presence people believe that God is with them
Pool people - excuse ridden, find all the reasons not to...blame others. Presence thinking...this is the day! Pool people are stuck in the past.
Jesus says 3 things...(for Presence People)
1. Presence People have vision, kingdom values believing for kingdom things
Jesus sees our predicament but that's not all he sees there is always a better day!
You are this now BUT you will be...he knows everything about us.
Pray your kingdom come...visionary statement. We see this now but look at what's about to happen! The best is yet to come!
2. Presence People take God at his word
Pool people say why not, why they can't. God says why not?
Take Jesus at his word...follow me, trust...live out the word of God in our lives.
This man was healed on the Sabbath... Broke the rules! All they could see was that he'd done it on the wrong day. What an awful way to live...Jesus was showing us the generous heart of God. Not restricting, legalistic...but freedom for the captives sight for the blind! Word of God is generous.
3. Presence People believe choices are more powerful than curses
Curses passed down...believe in this system.
Jesus says you are free now go and sin no more.
What you choose today will either set you free or bind you
He gives us the power to make good choices
Choose life that you might live
Pool people blame their circumstances
Presence People make the right choices despite their circumstances
Jesus wants us to know the power of choices today
Choose your attitude today
Choose your countenance today
Choose your disposition today
Pool people can act like victims
Choose life because that's what presence people do!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
One Prayer - Unstoppable Love
Great time in church this morning. Week three of our One Prayer series, Dino Rizzo spoke about 'Unstoppable Love'
LOVE - 3 most powerful words 'I love you'
Remember the first time you heard or said those 3 words? The presence of those words makes a difference or the lack of those words too. The game changes!
There is so much we see and here around that theme...love story!
1 Cor 13....what it means to walk in unstoppable love. The 3 Pillars that we need in our lives, church, home etc
One that stands above all these...LOVE
Lived out in the life of Jesus
Agape love...the unstppable love, given wihtout repayment.
Selfless love...complete, unconditional
Gods love is a difference maker....it changes life...transforms
We don't want this kind of love to be a theory...How does it relate to our own life?
3 ways...application
1. Unstoppable Love is somethiing that is crystal clear
Vs 1 - clarity , not just noise
Consistency not a clanging cymbal
If we have all ideas and theories but don't bring it down to how we live....it's noise and nobody hears us!
Crystal clear sound of hope forgiveness life changing encounter with Jesus Christ
2. Unstoppable Love...it never fails
As God's love is poured out it will change a community
Let it be poured out...it never fails
When you're consistence with the love of God... It wins over and never fails...Transforming!
3. Unstoppable Love is the greatest force on the planet today
The love of Jesus will reach into a persons heart and heal, transform, make new again
Serve your way into the hearts of people. It's the greatest thing!
Vs 13 love. Love God and love others, Jesus command to us
3 great forces motivate the church today. When you narrow it down at the top of list is LOVE. Not just in words but in practical ways also
Opens the door to hearts...Unstoppable Love of God
It will sacrifice, it will never give up on you. It Shouts louder than all the voices around you!
Jesus = unstoppable love of God
Laid down his life...forgave us
LOVE - 3 most powerful words 'I love you'
Remember the first time you heard or said those 3 words? The presence of those words makes a difference or the lack of those words too. The game changes!
There is so much we see and here around that theme...love story!
1 Cor 13....what it means to walk in unstoppable love. The 3 Pillars that we need in our lives, church, home etc
One that stands above all these...LOVE
Lived out in the life of Jesus
Agape love...the unstppable love, given wihtout repayment.
Selfless love...complete, unconditional
Gods love is a difference maker....it changes life...transforms
We don't want this kind of love to be a theory...How does it relate to our own life?
3 ways...application
1. Unstoppable Love is somethiing that is crystal clear
Vs 1 - clarity , not just noise
Consistency not a clanging cymbal
If we have all ideas and theories but don't bring it down to how we live....it's noise and nobody hears us!
Crystal clear sound of hope forgiveness life changing encounter with Jesus Christ
2. Unstoppable Love...it never fails
As God's love is poured out it will change a community
Let it be poured out...it never fails
When you're consistence with the love of God... It wins over and never fails...Transforming!
3. Unstoppable Love is the greatest force on the planet today
The love of Jesus will reach into a persons heart and heal, transform, make new again
Serve your way into the hearts of people. It's the greatest thing!
Vs 13 love. Love God and love others, Jesus command to us
3 great forces motivate the church today. When you narrow it down at the top of list is LOVE. Not just in words but in practical ways also
Opens the door to hearts...Unstoppable Love of God
It will sacrifice, it will never give up on you. It Shouts louder than all the voices around you!
Jesus = unstoppable love of God
Laid down his life...forgave us
Monday, June 14, 2010
One Prayer - Unstoppable Life
We continued with our One Prayer series in church yesterday. Brian Houston, Senior Pastor of Hillsong Sydney spoke a life changing message…living an unstoppable life.
John 19:30 - When he had received the drink, Jesus said, It is finished. With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Don't stop when something ends ie era, season, relationship, business etc. It’s just the beginning of the something else.
Revelation 22:13 - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End
The devil tries to stop us living our lives in an unstoppable way. He wants us to just give up. In the seasons of life the enemy wants to park at the end of it and stop us moving on.
We've come to an end and we wonder where God is in all of this. Face disillusionment, regret, disappointment.
God wants us to live an unstoppable life...God is still at the end of an era.
Regret is one of the biggest seeds the enemy sows, an emotion that attaches itself at the end of things.
Hebrews 3:14 - We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first
We start out in life with a dream and we can hold that confidence all the way!
Philippians 1:6 - being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus
Don't let the end mark the completion of your life. It's not over!
3 things that we should remember when we reach the end of something....
1) Always believe the best for the future
Jeremiah 29:11- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
Future hope…read verse 11 in context...
Jeremiah 29:4-6 - This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease.
Build, plant - keep living! Prepare for the future harvest. Think Future! Live an unstoppable life!
2) Talk to the Future
Psalm 23:6 - Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever
Psalm 45:1 - My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer
My heart overflows with a good theme...what is our hearts theme? My Tongue is the pen of a ready writer. Speak well of the future not negativity, it’s not the end. The best is yet to come! Don’t look back at a yesteryear saying it was better back then.
3) Commit to the Future
As long as we hold onto something that has finished it stops us from committing to the future.
We need to let go and move on into our future. Commit to the mountain. Decide you're not going to hold onto something that has finished.
It's over but you're not finished…the best is yet to come!
John 19:30 - When he had received the drink, Jesus said, It is finished. With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Don't stop when something ends ie era, season, relationship, business etc. It’s just the beginning of the something else.
Revelation 22:13 - I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End
The devil tries to stop us living our lives in an unstoppable way. He wants us to just give up. In the seasons of life the enemy wants to park at the end of it and stop us moving on.
We've come to an end and we wonder where God is in all of this. Face disillusionment, regret, disappointment.
God wants us to live an unstoppable life...God is still at the end of an era.
Regret is one of the biggest seeds the enemy sows, an emotion that attaches itself at the end of things.
Hebrews 3:14 - We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first
We start out in life with a dream and we can hold that confidence all the way!
Philippians 1:6 - being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus
Don't let the end mark the completion of your life. It's not over!
3 things that we should remember when we reach the end of something....
1) Always believe the best for the future
Jeremiah 29:11- For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
Future hope…read verse 11 in context...
Jeremiah 29:4-6 - This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease.
Build, plant - keep living! Prepare for the future harvest. Think Future! Live an unstoppable life!
2) Talk to the Future
Psalm 23:6 - Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever
Psalm 45:1 - My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skilful writer
My heart overflows with a good theme...what is our hearts theme? My Tongue is the pen of a ready writer. Speak well of the future not negativity, it’s not the end. The best is yet to come! Don’t look back at a yesteryear saying it was better back then.
3) Commit to the Future
As long as we hold onto something that has finished it stops us from committing to the future.
We need to let go and move on into our future. Commit to the mountain. Decide you're not going to hold onto something that has finished.
It's over but you're not finished…the best is yet to come!
Sunday, June 06, 2010
One Prayer – Unstoppable Courage
Great day at CLC. We began our new series in church this morning. As part of our One Prayer season throughout the month of June we started with an excellent message from Craig Groeschel on the subject of Unstoppable Courage.
‘The path to your greatest potential is often straight through your greatest fear’
What is your greatest fear? Failure? Conflict? Rejection? Never being good enough?
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind
God wants to give you unstoppable courage.
2 Samuel 23:20-21 – (20) Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, who performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab's best men. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. (21) And he struck down a huge Egyptian. Although the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club. He snatched the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear.
Benaiah was one of the top 5 soldiers in Israel. He was a General in the Israeli army and he was the Captain of King David’s bodyguards.
Verse 20 shows us that he was an unstoppable and courageous warrior, who went down into a pit and killed a lion!
‘People with real faith chase lions!’ They don’t let their fears stop them from what they’re called to do. Normal people fall into the trap of allowing their fears stop them…they live with regrets.
How do your fears effect your daily living…what lions are you facing today?
Chase that lion! When God calls you don’t let fear and those lions stop you from answering that call.
What lion do we need to chase?
Two very important qualities of those who have unstoppable courage…
1) People with Unstoppable Courage know that the BIGGER their God is the smaller the lion becomes
Daniel also had a lion experience
Daniel 6:20-22 – When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?" Daniel answered, "O king, live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king."
So often today we can think of God as being somebody else’s. How big is your God? My God is a BIG God!
Look at God and not at the Lion!
2) People with Unstoppable Courage understand that playing it safe is Risky
Hebrews 11:6 – And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him
There is no such thing a risk-free faith. Real faith – you can see it and you can feel it!
Imagine if David had walked away from Goliath
Imagine if Jesus had walked away from the Cross
Benaiah was afraid but he did it anyway! Feel the fear and do it anyway! Look at God and step into faith and out of fear. You can…with God!
Walk by Faith
You do the believable and let God do the unbelievable!
You do the ordinary and let God do the extraordinary!
‘The path to your greatest potential is often straight through your greatest fear’
What is your greatest fear? Failure? Conflict? Rejection? Never being good enough?
2 Timothy 1:7 – For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind
God wants to give you unstoppable courage.
2 Samuel 23:20-21 – (20) Benaiah son of Jehoiada was a valiant fighter from Kabzeel, who performed great exploits. He struck down two of Moab's best men. He also went down into a pit on a snowy day and killed a lion. (21) And he struck down a huge Egyptian. Although the Egyptian had a spear in his hand, Benaiah went against him with a club. He snatched the spear from the Egyptian's hand and killed him with his own spear.
Benaiah was one of the top 5 soldiers in Israel. He was a General in the Israeli army and he was the Captain of King David’s bodyguards.
Verse 20 shows us that he was an unstoppable and courageous warrior, who went down into a pit and killed a lion!
‘People with real faith chase lions!’ They don’t let their fears stop them from what they’re called to do. Normal people fall into the trap of allowing their fears stop them…they live with regrets.
How do your fears effect your daily living…what lions are you facing today?
Chase that lion! When God calls you don’t let fear and those lions stop you from answering that call.
What lion do we need to chase?
Two very important qualities of those who have unstoppable courage…
1) People with Unstoppable Courage know that the BIGGER their God is the smaller the lion becomes
Daniel also had a lion experience
Daniel 6:20-22 – When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?" Daniel answered, "O king, live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, O king."
So often today we can think of God as being somebody else’s. How big is your God? My God is a BIG God!
Look at God and not at the Lion!
2) People with Unstoppable Courage understand that playing it safe is Risky
Hebrews 11:6 – And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him
There is no such thing a risk-free faith. Real faith – you can see it and you can feel it!
Imagine if David had walked away from Goliath
Imagine if Jesus had walked away from the Cross
Benaiah was afraid but he did it anyway! Feel the fear and do it anyway! Look at God and step into faith and out of fear. You can…with God!
Walk by Faith
You do the believable and let God do the unbelievable!
You do the ordinary and let God do the extraordinary!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Ephesians 6 - God Protects
Another great morning in church today…Gavin Lloyd spoke from Ephesians 6 (God Protects) the final chapter in our series on the book Ephesians.
Ephesians 6:10-20
The cry of the human heart is to fight. We will all be stirred by a noble cause.
Our greatest fights though are on the inside of us!
And yet… 'our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.'
This is a surprise to us because the battle really looks like flesh and blood! But Paul says it’s not!
2 Corinthians 10:4 - “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
God says that there will be times when He will fight with us and even fight for us!! The scripture says Exodus 15:3, “The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name.”
Deuteronomy 3:22, “Do not be afraid of them; the LORD your God himself will fight for you”
Just before David goes into battle he says this, 1 Samuel 17:47, “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
There is one who has also gone on to fight for our salvation – His name is Jesus
God Protects
He gives us all we need to take a stand.
So often Christians wear themselves out by being on the offensive all of the time. Obsessed with driving out rather than just taking a stand.
All we need to do is make sure we are in the places and positions that we’re meant to be…and then take a stand.
Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm (Abraham Lincoln)
Places of heart and attitude, worship, church and vision, leadership, calling etc.
Paul assures us that the enemy WILL come! Make sure we’re properly and suitably equipped for when that happens
STAND FIRM
When taking a STAND 4 things to remember…
1) Jesus is stronger
1 John 4:4 - Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world
Our God alone is all-powerful, all knowing and ever present! It’s important that we are aware of spiritual battles that go on everyday…but this reality is not meant to make us fearful to give us a fearful attitude or outlook, but to point us to God, His word and promises as a source of empowerment, equipping and strength.
Colossians 2:13-15
You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He cancelled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross
Yes there is a struggle that goes on in an unseen realm we are reminded that our strength and ultimate victory can and will be found in Jesus. His power and work on the cross are the foundations of the confident spirit we are to face our daily trials and challenges with.
2) Put on all your armour
The armour works most effectively when all elements are deliberately put on every day.
We only need to make the decision to stand firm.
The Belt of Truth
Purpose of the Belt - The belt held the soldiers clothing next to their body to create an easier way to move. The belt was also used to strengthen and give support to the soldier.
Belt of truth = facts, truth, lack of deception
The truth that Paul is talking about is not from the opinions of our mind or what others might think. The truth that matters more than anything else is truth that comes from God. The belt of Truth is from God.
Christ is truth
The Word of God is truth
Living a life that follows truth
The belt of Truth:
Keeps us focused
Keeps us reminded
Keeps us supported
The Breastplate of Righteousness
Purpose of the breastplate: The breastplate was designed to protect the heart. The breastplate was a large plate of metal that extended from the neck down to the thighs.
Righteousness is the standing that we are given when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. Jesus is the one who makes us right with God the Father. It is Jesus that gives us a right relationship with God. Righteousness is literally being made right…because of Christ.
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
As Christians we are meant to protect our hearts from the power and corruption of sin.
The Sandals of Peace - Feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
Go where your salvation leads you. Where to? Church – Sundays, midweek, good places. They won’t lead you to places where we’re not to meant go…but where we should go!
The peace that we have in Christ gives us a firm standing in any situation that life can throw at us.
The peace of Christ gives us the security to stand for Him when we need to do so.
Go to the right places…and then STAND FIRM!
The Shield of Faith
Purpose of the shield - to protect the soldier from arrow attacks. These types of shields were often covered with leather and soaked in water prior to battle. The purpose was to put out flames if needed.
In ancient battles arrows were often covered in pitch or some type of combustible material. The arrows were then lit and shot to act like a small incendiary bombs. This is the type of strategy that the devil uses against us.
He assaults us with fiery attacks to…
• Question our salvation
• Question our calling
• Question our involvement
• Cause doubt and wonder in our lives
• Become discouraged, depressed and defeated
The sign of the Christian soldier is that we are to place our complete trust in God. It is our faith that becomes our shield from the fiery attacks of the Devil.
It is faith that gives us the strength to stand when Christ calls. The power and presence of God is our shield in life.
The Helmet of salvation
Purpose of the helmet - The helmet is meant to give protection to the head and to the mind. There is no possible way for the soldier to be effective if the mind is lost.
Thus the mind becomes on of the most vital areas to protect.
For the Christian, salvation becomes the source of our protection over the core of our being. When we are saved, we are offered protection for our minds. Why is this so important?
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.
Battle for the mind! Holy Spirit…brings life and peace to our minds!
The Sword of the Spirit
Purpose of the sword - The sword was used for both offense and defense. The sword could be used to either fight off the enemy or to slay the enemy.
Hebrews 4:12 - For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Our sword is the word of God. The scriptures give us the ability to fight back against the schemes and the plans of the enemy.
3) We will stand in the end
God will not allow a skirmish to unfold more furious than we can handle. We can stand with our armour and know in the end we will stand.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it
4) We need each other
And the last verse encourages us to…
PRAY IN THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 6:18 - And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
So fight for and alongside one another in prayer constantly.
Matthew 12:25 – “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand”
A house divided against itself cannot STAND
1 Corinthians 15:57-58
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.
Ephesians 6:10-20
The cry of the human heart is to fight. We will all be stirred by a noble cause.
Our greatest fights though are on the inside of us!
And yet… 'our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.'
This is a surprise to us because the battle really looks like flesh and blood! But Paul says it’s not!
2 Corinthians 10:4 - “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”
God says that there will be times when He will fight with us and even fight for us!! The scripture says Exodus 15:3, “The LORD is a warrior; the LORD is his name.”
Deuteronomy 3:22, “Do not be afraid of them; the LORD your God himself will fight for you”
Just before David goes into battle he says this, 1 Samuel 17:47, “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
There is one who has also gone on to fight for our salvation – His name is Jesus
God Protects
He gives us all we need to take a stand.
So often Christians wear themselves out by being on the offensive all of the time. Obsessed with driving out rather than just taking a stand.
All we need to do is make sure we are in the places and positions that we’re meant to be…and then take a stand.
Be sure you put your feet in the right place, then stand firm (Abraham Lincoln)
Places of heart and attitude, worship, church and vision, leadership, calling etc.
Paul assures us that the enemy WILL come! Make sure we’re properly and suitably equipped for when that happens
STAND FIRM
When taking a STAND 4 things to remember…
1) Jesus is stronger
1 John 4:4 - Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world
Our God alone is all-powerful, all knowing and ever present! It’s important that we are aware of spiritual battles that go on everyday…but this reality is not meant to make us fearful to give us a fearful attitude or outlook, but to point us to God, His word and promises as a source of empowerment, equipping and strength.
Colossians 2:13-15
You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He cancelled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. In this way, he disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities. He shamed them publicly by his victory over them on the cross
Yes there is a struggle that goes on in an unseen realm we are reminded that our strength and ultimate victory can and will be found in Jesus. His power and work on the cross are the foundations of the confident spirit we are to face our daily trials and challenges with.
2) Put on all your armour
The armour works most effectively when all elements are deliberately put on every day.
We only need to make the decision to stand firm.
The Belt of Truth
Purpose of the Belt - The belt held the soldiers clothing next to their body to create an easier way to move. The belt was also used to strengthen and give support to the soldier.
Belt of truth = facts, truth, lack of deception
The truth that Paul is talking about is not from the opinions of our mind or what others might think. The truth that matters more than anything else is truth that comes from God. The belt of Truth is from God.
Christ is truth
The Word of God is truth
Living a life that follows truth
The belt of Truth:
Keeps us focused
Keeps us reminded
Keeps us supported
The Breastplate of Righteousness
Purpose of the breastplate: The breastplate was designed to protect the heart. The breastplate was a large plate of metal that extended from the neck down to the thighs.
Righteousness is the standing that we are given when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. Jesus is the one who makes us right with God the Father. It is Jesus that gives us a right relationship with God. Righteousness is literally being made right…because of Christ.
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
As Christians we are meant to protect our hearts from the power and corruption of sin.
The Sandals of Peace - Feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace
Go where your salvation leads you. Where to? Church – Sundays, midweek, good places. They won’t lead you to places where we’re not to meant go…but where we should go!
The peace that we have in Christ gives us a firm standing in any situation that life can throw at us.
The peace of Christ gives us the security to stand for Him when we need to do so.
Go to the right places…and then STAND FIRM!
The Shield of Faith
Purpose of the shield - to protect the soldier from arrow attacks. These types of shields were often covered with leather and soaked in water prior to battle. The purpose was to put out flames if needed.
In ancient battles arrows were often covered in pitch or some type of combustible material. The arrows were then lit and shot to act like a small incendiary bombs. This is the type of strategy that the devil uses against us.
He assaults us with fiery attacks to…
• Question our salvation
• Question our calling
• Question our involvement
• Cause doubt and wonder in our lives
• Become discouraged, depressed and defeated
The sign of the Christian soldier is that we are to place our complete trust in God. It is our faith that becomes our shield from the fiery attacks of the Devil.
It is faith that gives us the strength to stand when Christ calls. The power and presence of God is our shield in life.
The Helmet of salvation
Purpose of the helmet - The helmet is meant to give protection to the head and to the mind. There is no possible way for the soldier to be effective if the mind is lost.
Thus the mind becomes on of the most vital areas to protect.
For the Christian, salvation becomes the source of our protection over the core of our being. When we are saved, we are offered protection for our minds. Why is this so important?
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.
Battle for the mind! Holy Spirit…brings life and peace to our minds!
The Sword of the Spirit
Purpose of the sword - The sword was used for both offense and defense. The sword could be used to either fight off the enemy or to slay the enemy.
Hebrews 4:12 - For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Our sword is the word of God. The scriptures give us the ability to fight back against the schemes and the plans of the enemy.
3) We will stand in the end
God will not allow a skirmish to unfold more furious than we can handle. We can stand with our armour and know in the end we will stand.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it
4) We need each other
And the last verse encourages us to…
PRAY IN THE SPIRIT
Ephesians 6:18 - And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
So fight for and alongside one another in prayer constantly.
Matthew 12:25 – “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand”
A house divided against itself cannot STAND
1 Corinthians 15:57-58
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
How to exit one season and enter another
This was the start of a special day for us at CLC. A great morning with an excellent message from Paul Benger on how to exit one season and enter another.
Exodus 14:5-25
Seasons change. Most people hope that it will be summer all of the time. Some Christians believe that they will go from summer to summer. But there is more than one season. Even in winter, deep beneath the surface, God is at work!
The Children of Israel had experienced one long winter season…Egypt. Yet this was their day, the day when Moses came back from 40 years in the wilderness, the day when they would leave one season and enter another.
When God is fulfilling his promise you don’t always recognise it…sometimes your focus remains on the day to days. The Children of Israel were going through a time like this.
“Why did you take us out of Egypt?” They couldn’t see what God was doing. Are we like that at the moment? Stuff to be done and we can’t see God in it all.
Transitions are so important, they keep us moving forward. God is saying to us today, “Keep moving forward”.
Exodus 14:13-15 - But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving!
Just stay calm, don’t be afraid…chill out! Moses is telling the people this, that God is on your side. In private he is crying out to God…he is panicking! God says, ‘tell the people to go forward’.
What are you doing? Are you moving forward? Moses was bold with the people and yet negative with God.
Don’t be tempted to hang about…get moving! Serve God, don’t hold back. It is a new season for you and for us as a church…a season of growth, miracles, favour, hope!
4 keys that help us move from one season to the next…
1) Don’t say it was better back then
Exodus 14:11-12 – and they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren’t there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? Didn’t we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It’s better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!’”
When we keep looking back it becomes increasingly frustrating. Don’t tie our lives to the past, tie it to the future that God has for us.
If we drive our cars constantly looking in the rear view mirror we’re going to CRASH!
Only look back at what Christ has done for you…at what he accomplished at the cross. Be thankful but keep moving into your future.
2) Use what you have in your hand
Exodus 14:15-16 - Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground.
Recognise the potential God has put in you. We can’t suddenly have in our hands what somebody else has in theirs. Use, with faith, what we have in our hand right now.
David tried to wear Saul’s armour…but in the end had to use what God had placed in his hand.
3) Keep your focus on God not the problem or the enemy
Exodus 14:13-14 – But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Just stay calm! God is BIG. He is STRONGER! He will fight for us, he is our strength and shield.
Jesus said, ‘I Will build my church’. Always remember what God has promised.
4) Have faith for the future
Exodus 14:13-14 – But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Abraham Lincoln, ‘…always remember it is a slip and not a fall….failure is not final’
Proverbs 18:21 – The tongue has the power of life and death
Let us keep talking about the future. Have faith for a bigger and better future!
Exodus 14:5-25
Seasons change. Most people hope that it will be summer all of the time. Some Christians believe that they will go from summer to summer. But there is more than one season. Even in winter, deep beneath the surface, God is at work!
The Children of Israel had experienced one long winter season…Egypt. Yet this was their day, the day when Moses came back from 40 years in the wilderness, the day when they would leave one season and enter another.
When God is fulfilling his promise you don’t always recognise it…sometimes your focus remains on the day to days. The Children of Israel were going through a time like this.
“Why did you take us out of Egypt?” They couldn’t see what God was doing. Are we like that at the moment? Stuff to be done and we can’t see God in it all.
Transitions are so important, they keep us moving forward. God is saying to us today, “Keep moving forward”.
Exodus 14:13-15 - But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving!
Just stay calm, don’t be afraid…chill out! Moses is telling the people this, that God is on your side. In private he is crying out to God…he is panicking! God says, ‘tell the people to go forward’.
What are you doing? Are you moving forward? Moses was bold with the people and yet negative with God.
Don’t be tempted to hang about…get moving! Serve God, don’t hold back. It is a new season for you and for us as a church…a season of growth, miracles, favour, hope!
4 keys that help us move from one season to the next…
1) Don’t say it was better back then
Exodus 14:11-12 – and they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness? Weren’t there enough graves for us in Egypt? What have you done to us? Why did you make us leave Egypt? Didn’t we tell you this would happen while we were still in Egypt? We said, ‘Leave us alone! Let us be slaves to the Egyptians. It’s better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness!’”
When we keep looking back it becomes increasingly frustrating. Don’t tie our lives to the past, tie it to the future that God has for us.
If we drive our cars constantly looking in the rear view mirror we’re going to CRASH!
Only look back at what Christ has done for you…at what he accomplished at the cross. Be thankful but keep moving into your future.
2) Use what you have in your hand
Exodus 14:15-16 - Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the people to get moving! Pick up your staff and raise your hand over the sea. Divide the water so the Israelites can walk through the middle of the sea on dry ground.
Recognise the potential God has put in you. We can’t suddenly have in our hands what somebody else has in theirs. Use, with faith, what we have in our hand right now.
David tried to wear Saul’s armour…but in the end had to use what God had placed in his hand.
3) Keep your focus on God not the problem or the enemy
Exodus 14:13-14 – But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Just stay calm! God is BIG. He is STRONGER! He will fight for us, he is our strength and shield.
Jesus said, ‘I Will build my church’. Always remember what God has promised.
4) Have faith for the future
Exodus 14:13-14 – But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”
Abraham Lincoln, ‘…always remember it is a slip and not a fall….failure is not final’
Proverbs 18:21 – The tongue has the power of life and death
Let us keep talking about the future. Have faith for a bigger and better future!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
How to win a battle you didn’t see coming
Great morning at CLC, Paul Benger spoke an excellent message on the subject of ‘winning battles we didn’t see coming’.
Exodus 17:8-16
How were the Israelites going to win this battle? They had been wandering in the wilderness because of the fear and the lack of faith of the ten spies.
Moses was continually frustrated at the people of Israel and their negative outlook on their circumstances. He had become a ‘manager’ of the people rather than a ‘leader’.
Here we find them at a place of rest, when an unexpected army rises up against them. Here they didn’t need a democratic vote on what to do; they needed leadership that says ‘we can do it!’
We all face unexpected battles from time to time. Here are 3 keys that show us how to win those battles we didn’t see coming…
1) Get yourself in the right position
Exodus 17:9 – Moses said to Joshua, "Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands."
Moses knew that the battles they faced were spiritual and not just physical. There are things that are bigger than we are. We need to remember our limitations.
Let us fight and pray. Do what we can do and let God do what he will do.
Let us get positioned correctly…on the mountain top in prayer. Lift our hands to God…this says I am relying on God, that the battle belongs to the Lord.
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 – For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds
This battle was being won by faith. As we position ourselves on the mountain top it gives us a different perspective…God’s perspective.
Prayer changes things. Moses saw that when his hands were up they were winning the battle, but when his hands were down they began to lose.
Hear the voice of God…to do that we sometimes need to switch our voices off!
Psalm 27:1-6 – The LORD is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD.
When the day of trouble comes let us remain within the House of God where we find shelter and safety…where He sets us UP!
2) Get yourself in the right posture
Exodus 17:11-13 – As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.
This battle was won sitting down with hands raised up.
Battles can sometimes last longer than anticipated. We therefore need to find a place of rest in the midst of the battle. They’re not won in striving but in rest.
Battles can make us weary and worn-out. We need to find rest in who God is…and the work he has done in our lives.
Hand raised up is the universal sign for SUBMISSION. That we are surrendered to God…that he knows better than you and me.
It is also the universal sign for PRAISE. We don’t often feel like praising in the midst of the fight and yet,
Hebrews 13:15 – Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name.
Submission and praise wins the battle! Jesus is Lord! God will thrive in any circumstance…He is the same God wherever we find ourselves.
We also need to know how to hold one anothers hands up…which is why being in the House of God is so important to us when we are in a battle. What you do for others God will do for you.
As well as holding up people we also need to hold up the vision that God has given us.
3) Get yourself with the right people
Exodus 17:12-13 – When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword
Moses didn’t go up the mountain alone…he went with people who would hold him up.
Let us walk with people who will hold us up. Relationships that are God given. Probably 90-95% of what God does in our lives is through other people.
Let us remain humble so that we can hear what other people say to us and let God speak to us through them.
Having the right people in our lives is so important in winning those unexpected battles.
Exodus 17:8-16
How were the Israelites going to win this battle? They had been wandering in the wilderness because of the fear and the lack of faith of the ten spies.
Moses was continually frustrated at the people of Israel and their negative outlook on their circumstances. He had become a ‘manager’ of the people rather than a ‘leader’.
Here we find them at a place of rest, when an unexpected army rises up against them. Here they didn’t need a democratic vote on what to do; they needed leadership that says ‘we can do it!’
We all face unexpected battles from time to time. Here are 3 keys that show us how to win those battles we didn’t see coming…
1) Get yourself in the right position
Exodus 17:9 – Moses said to Joshua, "Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands."
Moses knew that the battles they faced were spiritual and not just physical. There are things that are bigger than we are. We need to remember our limitations.
Let us fight and pray. Do what we can do and let God do what he will do.
Let us get positioned correctly…on the mountain top in prayer. Lift our hands to God…this says I am relying on God, that the battle belongs to the Lord.
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 – For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds
This battle was being won by faith. As we position ourselves on the mountain top it gives us a different perspective…God’s perspective.
Prayer changes things. Moses saw that when his hands were up they were winning the battle, but when his hands were down they began to lose.
Hear the voice of God…to do that we sometimes need to switch our voices off!
Psalm 27:1-6 – The LORD is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.
One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock.
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD.
When the day of trouble comes let us remain within the House of God where we find shelter and safety…where He sets us UP!
2) Get yourself in the right posture
Exodus 17:11-13 – As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword.
This battle was won sitting down with hands raised up.
Battles can sometimes last longer than anticipated. We therefore need to find a place of rest in the midst of the battle. They’re not won in striving but in rest.
Battles can make us weary and worn-out. We need to find rest in who God is…and the work he has done in our lives.
Hand raised up is the universal sign for SUBMISSION. That we are surrendered to God…that he knows better than you and me.
It is also the universal sign for PRAISE. We don’t often feel like praising in the midst of the fight and yet,
Hebrews 13:15 – Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise - the fruit of lips that confess his name.
Submission and praise wins the battle! Jesus is Lord! God will thrive in any circumstance…He is the same God wherever we find ourselves.
We also need to know how to hold one anothers hands up…which is why being in the House of God is so important to us when we are in a battle. What you do for others God will do for you.
As well as holding up people we also need to hold up the vision that God has given us.
3) Get yourself with the right people
Exodus 17:12-13 – When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword
Moses didn’t go up the mountain alone…he went with people who would hold him up.
Let us walk with people who will hold us up. Relationships that are God given. Probably 90-95% of what God does in our lives is through other people.
Let us remain humble so that we can hear what other people say to us and let God speak to us through them.
Having the right people in our lives is so important in winning those unexpected battles.
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Ephesians 5
Another great morning at CLC, Paul Benger continued this excellent series on the book of Ephesians with a message called GOD FILLS AND EMPOWERS.
Ephesians 5:1-21
We’ve all got things in our lives we want to see changed. What effects our lives? My life doesn’t have to be determined by the economic climate…but can be determined by God’s power and the Holy Spirit at work in me.
Christianity can thrive in any environment, no matter what is going on around us. It’s not what’s around us that matters but what is inside of us.
Christianity is not a ‘make over’…it’s a transformation, God at work in us changing us by his power.
5 things from Ephesians 5 where God fills us and empowers us…
1) God fills us and empowers us to love
Ephesians 5:1-2 – Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God
Be imitators of God. This doesn’t mean copying God. Let his life flow out of us. He fills us and causes us to love.
When we love people we want the very best for them. Jesus didn’t compete with people he celebrated people. We’re not vying for position, competing against one another.
Love people that God will change.
2) God fills us and empowers us to live in light
Ephesians 5:8-9 – For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)
Once we were in darkness, even the light inside of us was dark. All our good stuff was filthy.
But God put his spirit in us. We can now live another way. Live as people of the light. The enemy’s trick is to make the darkness appear like light and the light appear like darkness…don’t buy that!
You are a light in the darkness. Be the light, be yourself. Turn the light on!
3) God fills us and empowers us to live wise
Ephesians 5:15-17 – Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is
God knows more than we do. Live with his wisdom…knowing his will for our lives.
Don’t let your wisdom take you somewhere you’re not meant to go. He is wiser than us.
You might have missed opportunities from the past…God is going to give you those opportunities again.
4) God fills us and empowers us to live full of the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:18-20 – Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
Reject the notion of a pwerless Christianity. It’s not just a set of new values and stuff…it’s a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. It’s no makeover!
God gives us the power and grace to overcome. Whatever he asks us to do he empowers us to be able to do it!
1 Corinthians 10:13 – No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it
5) God fills us and empowers us to live submitted
Ephesians 5:21 – Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ
Get under the mission of your home, your church, your workplace. Being submitted to one another means we are under their mission.
MISSION
SUB
Everything that is not led goes nowhere! Servant leadership leads in a way that says how can I help you in what you are doing?
Ephesians 5:1-21
We’ve all got things in our lives we want to see changed. What effects our lives? My life doesn’t have to be determined by the economic climate…but can be determined by God’s power and the Holy Spirit at work in me.
Christianity can thrive in any environment, no matter what is going on around us. It’s not what’s around us that matters but what is inside of us.
Christianity is not a ‘make over’…it’s a transformation, God at work in us changing us by his power.
5 things from Ephesians 5 where God fills us and empowers us…
1) God fills us and empowers us to love
Ephesians 5:1-2 – Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God
Be imitators of God. This doesn’t mean copying God. Let his life flow out of us. He fills us and causes us to love.
When we love people we want the very best for them. Jesus didn’t compete with people he celebrated people. We’re not vying for position, competing against one another.
Love people that God will change.
2) God fills us and empowers us to live in light
Ephesians 5:8-9 – For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)
Once we were in darkness, even the light inside of us was dark. All our good stuff was filthy.
But God put his spirit in us. We can now live another way. Live as people of the light. The enemy’s trick is to make the darkness appear like light and the light appear like darkness…don’t buy that!
You are a light in the darkness. Be the light, be yourself. Turn the light on!
3) God fills us and empowers us to live wise
Ephesians 5:15-17 – Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is
God knows more than we do. Live with his wisdom…knowing his will for our lives.
Don’t let your wisdom take you somewhere you’re not meant to go. He is wiser than us.
You might have missed opportunities from the past…God is going to give you those opportunities again.
4) God fills us and empowers us to live full of the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:18-20 – Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ
Reject the notion of a pwerless Christianity. It’s not just a set of new values and stuff…it’s a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. It’s no makeover!
God gives us the power and grace to overcome. Whatever he asks us to do he empowers us to be able to do it!
1 Corinthians 10:13 – No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it
5) God fills us and empowers us to live submitted
Ephesians 5:21 – Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ
Get under the mission of your home, your church, your workplace. Being submitted to one another means we are under their mission.
MISSION
SUB
Everything that is not led goes nowhere! Servant leadership leads in a way that says how can I help you in what you are doing?
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Second Nature
Great message in church this morning from Mark Wilkins…talking about our second nature.
Our desire is to live authentic lives…having an impact on those around us.
Ephesians 4:13-16 – until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work
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
As Christians we’re not meant to live our lives in straight jackets, bound by rigid rules. Yet some Christians believe this is the way to live.
The main way is to live our lives authentically in the second nature that has been given to us…as a new creation. Over time we are transformed, we grow into maturity.
How do we live? What does our second nature look like? Our goal is to glorify God and become more like Jesus.
Philippians 2:5 – Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus
Our aim is to have the same attitude as Christ…to become Christ like. Yet we know to live up to that standard is so difficult…Jesus is God!
His purpose was to bring God’s Kingdom to earth…and to become more like him is to have that same purpose in our own lives.
Let’s look at a group of people who the Apostle Paul recognised as have grasped this truth with regards to living this authentic second nature.
1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 – We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ
1 Thessalonians 5:8 – But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet
These characteristics of Faith, Hope and Love that they had right, we should have too.
1 Corinthians 13:11-13 – When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love
Faith – seeing life through God’s eyes. Knowing that everyday God is with me. He is stronger, bigger than any of my circumstances.
Hope – not the kind of hope that says ‘I hope I might win the lottery’, but a hope that says Jesus is with me right now. We’re not just hoping for a better future. We can take steps today. When Paul was in prison he was praising God because he had Hope…that God was with him.
Love – love is the greatest! If we have love for God and for people it sustains us…it encapsulates everything else. This love is not just for my partner/family but it is for everyone.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres
Be true to yourself…but which self? The second nature person. Let us be authentic to that second nature and not the first nature.
We need to exercise our second nature muscles!
Put on the right person…genuine, not false…not pretending. Consciously where the right clothes. Put this into practice so that it becomes natural over time. We might get things wrong from time to time…but we will get it right too.
Practical steps to live by that second nature and to become more like our creator…
Read God’s word – again not out religious duty but out of relationship. Not beating ourselves up but having that desire to know God more and to make the choice of reading and getting his word inside of us.
Look to people who are great examples – who live their lives that reflect that behaviour, second nature.
Philippians 3:17 – Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you
This also happens in community. We’re called to be together…the church. Worshipping together, praying together…developing those faith muscles.
Choose to serve together…this is very powerful.
Baptism – great step, public declaration…choosing to follow Jesus.
Giving – all part of developing our lives, growing in our second nature. Over time will become easier…to be generous, to honour God. Let us work our generosity muscles!
Our desire is to live authentic lives…having an impact on those around us.
Ephesians 4:13-16 – until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work
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
As Christians we’re not meant to live our lives in straight jackets, bound by rigid rules. Yet some Christians believe this is the way to live.
The main way is to live our lives authentically in the second nature that has been given to us…as a new creation. Over time we are transformed, we grow into maturity.
How do we live? What does our second nature look like? Our goal is to glorify God and become more like Jesus.
Philippians 2:5 – Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus
Our aim is to have the same attitude as Christ…to become Christ like. Yet we know to live up to that standard is so difficult…Jesus is God!
His purpose was to bring God’s Kingdom to earth…and to become more like him is to have that same purpose in our own lives.
Let’s look at a group of people who the Apostle Paul recognised as have grasped this truth with regards to living this authentic second nature.
1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 – We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labour prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ
1 Thessalonians 5:8 – But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet
These characteristics of Faith, Hope and Love that they had right, we should have too.
1 Corinthians 13:11-13 – When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love
Faith – seeing life through God’s eyes. Knowing that everyday God is with me. He is stronger, bigger than any of my circumstances.
Hope – not the kind of hope that says ‘I hope I might win the lottery’, but a hope that says Jesus is with me right now. We’re not just hoping for a better future. We can take steps today. When Paul was in prison he was praising God because he had Hope…that God was with him.
Love – love is the greatest! If we have love for God and for people it sustains us…it encapsulates everything else. This love is not just for my partner/family but it is for everyone.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres
Be true to yourself…but which self? The second nature person. Let us be authentic to that second nature and not the first nature.
We need to exercise our second nature muscles!
Put on the right person…genuine, not false…not pretending. Consciously where the right clothes. Put this into practice so that it becomes natural over time. We might get things wrong from time to time…but we will get it right too.
Practical steps to live by that second nature and to become more like our creator…
Read God’s word – again not out religious duty but out of relationship. Not beating ourselves up but having that desire to know God more and to make the choice of reading and getting his word inside of us.
Look to people who are great examples – who live their lives that reflect that behaviour, second nature.
Philippians 3:17 – Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you
This also happens in community. We’re called to be together…the church. Worshipping together, praying together…developing those faith muscles.
Choose to serve together…this is very powerful.
Baptism – great step, public declaration…choosing to follow Jesus.
Giving – all part of developing our lives, growing in our second nature. Over time will become easier…to be generous, to honour God. Let us work our generosity muscles!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Ephesians 4
Paul Benger continues a great series on the book of Ephesians with a message called GOD BUILDS.
Ephesians 4:1-16
God builds his church. He is a builder. He will occasionally do a quick fix but his normative process is building. The building of the Church is the Primary Work of Jesus Christ. Jesus said "I will build my church" Matthew 16
We are also called to build. We are into building the lives of people, so they can live expansive, growing and flourishing lives.
Some people have a love view of church like it is just a club or religious organisation. The Biblical view is that we are the body of Christ on the earth…this is how God speaks to the world…through the church.
So the top of God’s ‘to do’ list is to build his church. How does he go about this?
1) God Builds Through Unity
Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace
Ephesians 4:13 - until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ
Division, arguments and factions build NOTHING. God builds unity and unity builds the church. Some of the things that contribute to unity, (vs 1-2) – As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love
We are not perfect BUT we can be united! Stay as one and love and care for one another.
Unity thrives in an atmosphere of peace. We are to be at peace with God, at peace with ourselves and at peace with others. God loves unity. He loves unity of heart and unity of vision.
God loves unity that is WILLING. Unity cannot be cajoled or forced
2) God Builds People who build His church
Ephesians 4:7 - But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it
Ephesians 4:11-13 – It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
The church builds itself. It is not the job of paid clergy to build the Church. The Church builds itself. Jesus gives Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers to the Church to build people who build the church. So get inviting, loving, caring, praying.
Ephesians 4:16 - From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work
3) God Builds Maturity
Ephesians 4:13-16 – until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
So that we are no longer tossed about! Maturity is revealed in stability, reliability, bouncebackability, consistency. A mature church gets fit together, each part does its work.
Ephesians 4:1-16
God builds his church. He is a builder. He will occasionally do a quick fix but his normative process is building. The building of the Church is the Primary Work of Jesus Christ. Jesus said "I will build my church" Matthew 16
We are also called to build. We are into building the lives of people, so they can live expansive, growing and flourishing lives.
Some people have a love view of church like it is just a club or religious organisation. The Biblical view is that we are the body of Christ on the earth…this is how God speaks to the world…through the church.
So the top of God’s ‘to do’ list is to build his church. How does he go about this?
1) God Builds Through Unity
Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace
Ephesians 4:13 - until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ
Division, arguments and factions build NOTHING. God builds unity and unity builds the church. Some of the things that contribute to unity, (vs 1-2) – As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love
We are not perfect BUT we can be united! Stay as one and love and care for one another.
Unity thrives in an atmosphere of peace. We are to be at peace with God, at peace with ourselves and at peace with others. God loves unity. He loves unity of heart and unity of vision.
God loves unity that is WILLING. Unity cannot be cajoled or forced
2) God Builds People who build His church
Ephesians 4:7 - But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it
Ephesians 4:11-13 – It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
The church builds itself. It is not the job of paid clergy to build the Church. The Church builds itself. Jesus gives Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors and Teachers to the Church to build people who build the church. So get inviting, loving, caring, praying.
Ephesians 4:16 - From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work
3) God Builds Maturity
Ephesians 4:13-16 – until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
So that we are no longer tossed about! Maturity is revealed in stability, reliability, bouncebackability, consistency. A mature church gets fit together, each part does its work.
Sunday, April 04, 2010
What difference does Easter make?
Great Easter celebration at CLC today. Paul Benger shared the good news that Easter brings us.
The world is full of unimportant news. It’s important that we get the news that we can use. We have good news today!
We believe that Jesus rose from the dead! When he rose from the dead it wasn’t done in secret. There are 15 references to Jesus meeting people after he rose from the dead. What does his resurrection tell us today?
Jesus was who he claimed to be
Jesus had the power he said he had – death could not hold him!
Jesus does what he promises to do
Jesus was who he claimed to be
John 11:25 – "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies”
Jesus made outrageous claims. He was who he said he was or he was a mad man!
John 14:6 – Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”
An outrageous claim? He is THE way, THE truth and THE life.
Jesus had the power he claimed he had
Matthew 28:18 – Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”
John 10:18 – “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father”
Jesus still has that power today. He breaks into our lives and sets us free.
Jesus does what he promises
Matthew 10:34 – Three days later he will rise
He wasn’t surprised by the cross…it was all part of his plan.
Matthew 28:5-6 – The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay
He isn’t here! The resurrection shows us that Jesus keeps his promises.
3 reasons why this is news we can use…
1) The news is…my past can be forgiven
Some people wish they could start all over again…live with regret or guilt.
The resurrection tells us that our past can be forgiven.
Colossians 2:14 – having cancelled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross
He cancelled every record of debt that we owed. The tactic of the enemy is to throw back at us that we still owe…that there is still a debt to be paid. Jesus has dealt with it!
2) The news is…our present can be controlled/managed
Be in charge…rule in life. Maturity in life is when we realise we can’t do it all on our own…in our own strength. BUT in Christ I can do all things…because of the strength he gives me.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do everything through him who gives me strength (I am ready for anything! – amplified)
3) The news is…my future can be secured
What happens when we die? The resurrection of Jesus says we can LIVE. Not just now but for eternity! Live NOW - ‘We are training for reigning’
John 14:2 – In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you
There is more than enough room!
The world is full of unimportant news. It’s important that we get the news that we can use. We have good news today!
We believe that Jesus rose from the dead! When he rose from the dead it wasn’t done in secret. There are 15 references to Jesus meeting people after he rose from the dead. What does his resurrection tell us today?
Jesus was who he claimed to be
Jesus had the power he said he had – death could not hold him!
Jesus does what he promises to do
Jesus was who he claimed to be
John 11:25 – "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies”
Jesus made outrageous claims. He was who he said he was or he was a mad man!
John 14:6 – Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”
An outrageous claim? He is THE way, THE truth and THE life.
Jesus had the power he claimed he had
Matthew 28:18 – Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me”
John 10:18 – “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father”
Jesus still has that power today. He breaks into our lives and sets us free.
Jesus does what he promises
Matthew 10:34 – Three days later he will rise
He wasn’t surprised by the cross…it was all part of his plan.
Matthew 28:5-6 – The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay
He isn’t here! The resurrection shows us that Jesus keeps his promises.
3 reasons why this is news we can use…
1) The news is…my past can be forgiven
Some people wish they could start all over again…live with regret or guilt.
The resurrection tells us that our past can be forgiven.
Colossians 2:14 – having cancelled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross
He cancelled every record of debt that we owed. The tactic of the enemy is to throw back at us that we still owe…that there is still a debt to be paid. Jesus has dealt with it!
2) The news is…our present can be controlled/managed
Be in charge…rule in life. Maturity in life is when we realise we can’t do it all on our own…in our own strength. BUT in Christ I can do all things…because of the strength he gives me.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do everything through him who gives me strength (I am ready for anything! – amplified)
3) The news is…my future can be secured
What happens when we die? The resurrection of Jesus says we can LIVE. Not just now but for eternity! Live NOW - ‘We are training for reigning’
John 14:2 – In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you
There is more than enough room!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
New Creation
Loved church this morning! Jeannie Benger shared a great message about the fact that we are ‘new creations’ and that we should live a life transformed.
As we grow older we can find ourselves taking on our parents traits…physical, mannerisms, speech etc.
We can also unknowingly take on their attitudes, some can be good but some can be bad. These can hold us back from having that abundant life God has for us.
2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
1) Be confident in who you are!
Judges 6:12 – "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."
You can be the person that also brings strength and encouragement to others. We have been put on this earth to make a massive difference.
Live with confidence. Don’t compare yourselves to others. I.e. don’t try to keep up with the Jones’. Don’t let your STUFF define who you are.
The opinion of ONE matters…not the opinions of others! You are sons and daughters of the Living God. He’s cheering you on! Have confidence in this fact…change the way we think.
2) Renew your thinking
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
The way we think about ourselves effects our living. We can lack confidence.
Philippians 4:18 – I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God
Meditate and live out God’s word. Live a life that smells good to those around you!
Psalms 1:2-3 – But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers
3) Spend time with the new you
Proverbs 13:20 – He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm
We all need heroes. Build the right kind of relationships in your life. Don’t let the wrong kind of people in your life keep you from going somewhere in God.
Be with people who will do you good…take you to the next level. Have great friendships and don’t disconnect yourselves when the going gets tough.
The spirit of those around you will rub off on you. Iron sharpens iron.
Matthew 5:16 – In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
Don’t let anyone put your light out!
4) Act like the new you
James 1:23-25 – Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does
Wear God well. Show Christ in you to those around you. The choices we make will show how well we wear God.
Live differently to those around you. Choose what you show in your life…let God clothe you!
Act on the word of God…His truth, not the principles of this world.
Keep the right attitude about yourself as well as others.
5) Talk about the new you
Proverbs 18:21 – The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit
Let your confession be one of good.
Proverbs 10:21 – The lips of the righteous nourish many
The way we speak changes the atmosphere. Be who he has called you to be. Do what he has called you to do.
Don’t let your confession be a confession of lack…negativity. Talk the promises of God.
6) See the new you
Look at the mirror of God’s word. Whatever you can see…you can be!
Matthew 6:21 – For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also
He has great plans for your life!
Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
Rise up and take every opportunity. Don’t shrink back...seize this great abundant life that he has for us.
He looked down through time and said he wanted you! He chose you! You’re special and loved.
Psalm 8:5 – You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honour
As we grow older we can find ourselves taking on our parents traits…physical, mannerisms, speech etc.
We can also unknowingly take on their attitudes, some can be good but some can be bad. These can hold us back from having that abundant life God has for us.
2 Corinthians 5:17 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
1) Be confident in who you are!
Judges 6:12 – "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."
You can be the person that also brings strength and encouragement to others. We have been put on this earth to make a massive difference.
Live with confidence. Don’t compare yourselves to others. I.e. don’t try to keep up with the Jones’. Don’t let your STUFF define who you are.
The opinion of ONE matters…not the opinions of others! You are sons and daughters of the Living God. He’s cheering you on! Have confidence in this fact…change the way we think.
2) Renew your thinking
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
The way we think about ourselves effects our living. We can lack confidence.
Philippians 4:18 – I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God
Meditate and live out God’s word. Live a life that smells good to those around you!
Psalms 1:2-3 – But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers
3) Spend time with the new you
Proverbs 13:20 – He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm
We all need heroes. Build the right kind of relationships in your life. Don’t let the wrong kind of people in your life keep you from going somewhere in God.
Be with people who will do you good…take you to the next level. Have great friendships and don’t disconnect yourselves when the going gets tough.
The spirit of those around you will rub off on you. Iron sharpens iron.
Matthew 5:16 – In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven
Don’t let anyone put your light out!
4) Act like the new you
James 1:23-25 – Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does
Wear God well. Show Christ in you to those around you. The choices we make will show how well we wear God.
Live differently to those around you. Choose what you show in your life…let God clothe you!
Act on the word of God…His truth, not the principles of this world.
Keep the right attitude about yourself as well as others.
5) Talk about the new you
Proverbs 18:21 – The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit
Let your confession be one of good.
Proverbs 10:21 – The lips of the righteous nourish many
The way we speak changes the atmosphere. Be who he has called you to be. Do what he has called you to do.
Don’t let your confession be a confession of lack…negativity. Talk the promises of God.
6) See the new you
Look at the mirror of God’s word. Whatever you can see…you can be!
Matthew 6:21 – For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also
He has great plans for your life!
Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future
Rise up and take every opportunity. Don’t shrink back...seize this great abundant life that he has for us.
He looked down through time and said he wanted you! He chose you! You’re special and loved.
Psalm 8:5 – You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honour
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Missions Sunday
Great time in church today. It was our Missions Sunday with visitors from City Hearts Sheffield. Paul Benger shared a life-changing message about ‘turning money the right way around’.
1 Chronicles 29:10-14 - "Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendour, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honour come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
Money is so important to us and to our world…this is probably why it spoken about and taught about so much in the Bible. Jesus touched on the subject of money many times.
Finance could be one of those areas that holds us back as a church in moving forward with the vision that we believe God has given us. Money can free us or it can bind us. If we can do all that we can do…God will do all that he can do.
Our wish list when it comes to finances…
1) That we would have ‘financial margin’, so that when God moves us to give then we can respond. Maybe we need to use better what we have already to create financial margin.
2) Don’t be prisoners to our ‘stuff’. The richest person is often the most miserable…clinging on to their ‘stuff’. Stuff does not bring us happiness. The culture of our world causes us to serve our stuff.
3) Our attachment to money doesn’t hold us back.
4) That we become good stewards, that we manage our finances well.
Luke 16:13 - You cannot serve both God and Money
What is our Stewardship like?
“911” Giving - 9 parts for living, 1 part for saving, and then whatever is left over (if anything!) we give
“118” Giving – Give, Save, Live!
1 Chronicles 29:14 - But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
A good steward knows that what they have belongs to God anyway. The growing disciple knows that all he has belongs to God. That what we have been given we need to look after well.
It is important that we regularly and consistently give back to God. The church is good soil.
Proverbs 3:9 - Honour the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops. (The Message - Honour God with everything you own; give him the first and the best)
Malachi 3:10 – Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it
That your house might be full! Let nothing hold us back…not hindered or hampered in anyway. So that we can respond when we need to.
Matthew 6:21 – For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Our heart should always follow money.
The greatest challenges that face in the future will be met in force by a company of 118 people…the church!
1 Chronicles 29:10-14 - "Praise be to you, O LORD, God of our father Israel, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendour, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honour come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
Money is so important to us and to our world…this is probably why it spoken about and taught about so much in the Bible. Jesus touched on the subject of money many times.
Finance could be one of those areas that holds us back as a church in moving forward with the vision that we believe God has given us. Money can free us or it can bind us. If we can do all that we can do…God will do all that he can do.
Our wish list when it comes to finances…
1) That we would have ‘financial margin’, so that when God moves us to give then we can respond. Maybe we need to use better what we have already to create financial margin.
2) Don’t be prisoners to our ‘stuff’. The richest person is often the most miserable…clinging on to their ‘stuff’. Stuff does not bring us happiness. The culture of our world causes us to serve our stuff.
3) Our attachment to money doesn’t hold us back.
4) That we become good stewards, that we manage our finances well.
Luke 16:13 - You cannot serve both God and Money
What is our Stewardship like?
“911” Giving - 9 parts for living, 1 part for saving, and then whatever is left over (if anything!) we give
“118” Giving – Give, Save, Live!
1 Chronicles 29:14 - But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.
A good steward knows that what they have belongs to God anyway. The growing disciple knows that all he has belongs to God. That what we have been given we need to look after well.
It is important that we regularly and consistently give back to God. The church is good soil.
Proverbs 3:9 - Honour the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops. (The Message - Honour God with everything you own; give him the first and the best)
Malachi 3:10 – Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it
That your house might be full! Let nothing hold us back…not hindered or hampered in anyway. So that we can respond when we need to.
Matthew 6:21 – For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Our heart should always follow money.
The greatest challenges that face in the future will be met in force by a company of 118 people…the church!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Heroes
We had a fantastic time in church this morning; it was Mother’s Day at CLC! Paul Benger shared a great message about Heroes.
Exodus 2:1-10
Mums are heroes! The Bible is full of characters that encourage us to live a heroic life. Jesus is our greatest example.
We are called to live a heroic life! We often think we are ‘ordinary’ and yet we can live extraordinary lives.
Acts 7:20 – At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for in his father's house
Moses was no ordinary child. There are no ordinary children.
Jeremiah 1:5 - Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations
You were a dream in God’s mind before you even took your first breath. An idea, a vision…before you were ever born!
5 year olds – 95% have the potential of becoming innovators; 30 year olds – just 2% - What happens in the in-between years?
There is more in you than you can ever imagine! You have the capacity for an extraordinary life.
Look at Moses’ mum this morning. She was hero! Looking at her life and the life of heroes what can we learn today?
Heroes Jump
Heroes often take a leap. Every hero jumps! All of us in our heroic lives have moments of courage. We jump beyond those moments of despair and discouragement.
Moses’ mum – her leap was letting her son go into the basket. Her jump, she had to let him go to save his life. She didn’t have it all worked out but she had courage.
There are moments when we need to jump. When we need courage – steps that we need to take that might not feel comfortable at the time.
Heroes have a Great Perspective
Moses’ mum – her perspective, ‘you’re not going to get my boy!’ Never mess with a mother when it is to do with her son!
Keep your perspective right. We’re not ordinary. Keep believing, have the right perspective that says ‘my life matters’.
Heroes connect to a Heritage
Moses’ mum had a Godly heritage. A Levite, she believed her son was no ordinary child…this is what my son is going to do – to serve God.
This is our heritage also to stay connected to that calling of serving God in all that we do. Let’s keep our families connected to that heritage also.
‘Train a child in the way he/she should go’. Be a good example to our children, encourage them, teach them.
Exodus 2:1-10
Mums are heroes! The Bible is full of characters that encourage us to live a heroic life. Jesus is our greatest example.
We are called to live a heroic life! We often think we are ‘ordinary’ and yet we can live extraordinary lives.
Acts 7:20 – At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. For three months he was cared for in his father's house
Moses was no ordinary child. There are no ordinary children.
Jeremiah 1:5 - Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations
You were a dream in God’s mind before you even took your first breath. An idea, a vision…before you were ever born!
5 year olds – 95% have the potential of becoming innovators; 30 year olds – just 2% - What happens in the in-between years?
There is more in you than you can ever imagine! You have the capacity for an extraordinary life.
Look at Moses’ mum this morning. She was hero! Looking at her life and the life of heroes what can we learn today?
Heroes Jump
Heroes often take a leap. Every hero jumps! All of us in our heroic lives have moments of courage. We jump beyond those moments of despair and discouragement.
Moses’ mum – her leap was letting her son go into the basket. Her jump, she had to let him go to save his life. She didn’t have it all worked out but she had courage.
There are moments when we need to jump. When we need courage – steps that we need to take that might not feel comfortable at the time.
Heroes have a Great Perspective
Moses’ mum – her perspective, ‘you’re not going to get my boy!’ Never mess with a mother when it is to do with her son!
Keep your perspective right. We’re not ordinary. Keep believing, have the right perspective that says ‘my life matters’.
Heroes connect to a Heritage
Moses’ mum had a Godly heritage. A Levite, she believed her son was no ordinary child…this is what my son is going to do – to serve God.
This is our heritage also to stay connected to that calling of serving God in all that we do. Let’s keep our families connected to that heritage also.
‘Train a child in the way he/she should go’. Be a good example to our children, encourage them, teach them.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Ephesians 3
Another incredible morning at CLC today, Paul Benger shared a great message from Ephesians 3 – ‘God Reveals’.
Ephesians 3:1-21
The theme of Ephesians is ‘God’s ultimate purpose’ and he has revealed this through the church. Great plan of God for the world…he loves the world so much!
Paul starts this chapter intending on revealing another of his prayers for the Ephesian Church but he gets caught up in his story. Jesus told the Story that the Kingdom of God is like a pearl that a merchant when he had found it sold all that he had to buy it. Paul's attitude to what God has done for him is the same. "When I think of all this" he says vs1.
Jesus said the Kingdom was worth selling everything for. He placed a great value on the Kingdom therefore. Do we feel the same?
Paul’s excitement and passion for what God has done in his life is so evident in this chapter. That God though his power at work in us can accomplish more than we could ask or think!
We often need to just spend time and think about what God has done for us. Pause, stop and think about all of this. ‘Divert daily, withdraw weekly, abandon annually’ (Rick Warren)
Paul gets caught up in the verses 2-13 – that God has called him to be an apostle to the Gentiles. Paul is telling us, ‘if God can do it for me he can do it for you!’ He is calling us to be full on for God.
We here to pray and see your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. God’s purpose is to bless the world through the church. Jesus came to change the world and to see the church change the world through Christ.
Ephesians 3:6-7 – And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus. By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News.
Paul’s revelation, that this was what he was going to give his life for! A revelation of God’s grace and God’s power (he couldn’t do it in his own strength)
God transforms our lives through revelation. For Paul his revelation was dramatic ands life-changing. It was the revelation that Jesus is King!
Paul calls himself "the least of all saints". I think he really believes it because of his intent to kill Christians (Acts 9). If God can change me by revealing his power to me my prayer is he will reveal himself to you. This is Paul's approach.
Paul's past didn't stop him. He understood the love of God which he emphasises in this chapter, that he had set him free from his past so that he could pursue his destiny.
Paul was transformed because he met Christ; he focused on what God had done; he relied on the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 3:10-11 – God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.
The revelation of God’s purpose, to bless the world through the church. Paul’s revelation and ours today - that God is doing far more than we think he is doing!
Let us splash God colours wherever we go!
Ephesians 3:17-18 – Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.
God loves us NOW. He loves the WORLD…we need to let world know how much he loves them!
Ephesians 3:16, 20-21 – I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit…Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.
God – unlimited, infinitely more!
Ephesians 3:1-21
The theme of Ephesians is ‘God’s ultimate purpose’ and he has revealed this through the church. Great plan of God for the world…he loves the world so much!
Paul starts this chapter intending on revealing another of his prayers for the Ephesian Church but he gets caught up in his story. Jesus told the Story that the Kingdom of God is like a pearl that a merchant when he had found it sold all that he had to buy it. Paul's attitude to what God has done for him is the same. "When I think of all this" he says vs1.
Jesus said the Kingdom was worth selling everything for. He placed a great value on the Kingdom therefore. Do we feel the same?
Paul’s excitement and passion for what God has done in his life is so evident in this chapter. That God though his power at work in us can accomplish more than we could ask or think!
We often need to just spend time and think about what God has done for us. Pause, stop and think about all of this. ‘Divert daily, withdraw weekly, abandon annually’ (Rick Warren)
Paul gets caught up in the verses 2-13 – that God has called him to be an apostle to the Gentiles. Paul is telling us, ‘if God can do it for me he can do it for you!’ He is calling us to be full on for God.
We here to pray and see your kingdom come and your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. God’s purpose is to bless the world through the church. Jesus came to change the world and to see the church change the world through Christ.
Ephesians 3:6-7 – And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus. By God’s grace and mighty power, I have been given the privilege of serving him by spreading this Good News.
Paul’s revelation, that this was what he was going to give his life for! A revelation of God’s grace and God’s power (he couldn’t do it in his own strength)
God transforms our lives through revelation. For Paul his revelation was dramatic ands life-changing. It was the revelation that Jesus is King!
Paul calls himself "the least of all saints". I think he really believes it because of his intent to kill Christians (Acts 9). If God can change me by revealing his power to me my prayer is he will reveal himself to you. This is Paul's approach.
Paul's past didn't stop him. He understood the love of God which he emphasises in this chapter, that he had set him free from his past so that he could pursue his destiny.
Paul was transformed because he met Christ; he focused on what God had done; he relied on the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 3:10-11 – God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places. This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.
The revelation of God’s purpose, to bless the world through the church. Paul’s revelation and ours today - that God is doing far more than we think he is doing!
Let us splash God colours wherever we go!
Ephesians 3:17-18 – Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.
God loves us NOW. He loves the WORLD…we need to let world know how much he loves them!
Ephesians 3:16, 20-21 – I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit…Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.
God – unlimited, infinitely more!
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