Series Context

•  Part of a “Walk Through the Bible” series (30,000-foot view) 
•  Key theme: God is the same yesterday, today, and forever
•  The Old Testament is still relevant—Jesus Himself quoted it often 

What is Righteousness?

•  “Righteous” = what is right, just, and fair
•  The key question: Whose perspective defines what’s right?
•  Culture says: “what’s right to me”
•  Bible says: God alone defines what is right

The Problem with Human Perspective

•  We judge based on personal feelings (“that’s not fair”) 
•  We: 
  • Excuse ourselves
  • Accuse others
•  Like in Judges: everyone did what was right in their own eyes

Core Truth

God is always:

•  Right 
•  Just 
•  Fair 

Judgment in the Bible

•  There is a clear line: 
  •  Right → Reward 
  •  Wrong → Judgment 
•  This has never changed

What has changed?

• How judgment is paid
  •  Before Christ → people bore judgment 
  •  After Christ → Jesus took judgment on the cross 

➡️ God’s standard never changed—only the payment method did

The Cross Changes Everything

•  Jesus took: 
  •  The full punishment of sin 
  •  For all people (past, present, future) 
•  We have a choice: 
  •  Accept His sacrifice → no personal judgment 
  •  Reject it → bear judgment ourselves 

Key Biblical Principle

Judgment is never random—there is always cause and effect

•  Example: Nations like Edom and Moab 
  •  Had opportunities to help Israel 
  •  Chose wrongly → judgment came later 
•  Lesson: God gives opportunities before judgment

Misunderstanding Justice Today

•  We often ask: “Where is justice?” 
•  Truth: History isn’t finished yet
•  Final justice is coming 

Personal Application

1. Stop judging others

•  Our perspective is limited 
•  God sees the full picture 

2. Judge yourself instead

•  “If you judge yourself, you won’t be judged” 
•  Repentance shifts judgment to the cross 

3. Trust God’s character

•  Even when it doesn’t seem fair 
•  God is never wrong 

Grace vs License

•  Grace ≠ permission to sin 
•  Grace = opportunity to: 
  •  Be forgiven 
  •  Still live righteously 

Suffering Clarified

Two types:

1.  Suffering from wrong choices 
2.  Suffering for obedience 

➡️ If suffering for God:

•  Keep doing what is right 
•  Trust Him fully 

Final Takeaways

•  God’s standard of right and wrong never changes 
•  Judgment is always just and deserved 
•  There is always an opportunity for repentance 
•  Jesus took your judgment—if you accept it 

Closing Challenge

•  Don’t rely on your perspective 
•  Align with God’s definition of righteousness 
• Repent quickly, obey consistently, trust fully

Resurrection Sunday is the celebration of new life in Christ. Jesus was crucified as the full payment for our sin, buried, and raised on the third day with all power. Because of His victory, death has lost its sting for those who believe, and our salvation is complete in Him.

This message centers on one key truth: humility is the soil in which all the virtues of the Spirit grow. If we want to walk in resurrection life, we must also walk in humility.

Jesus taught this principle clearly: whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted (Matthew 23:12). In God’s kingdom, greatness is not found in status, but in service. Jesus did not just teach humility; He embodied it.

Philippians 2 shows Christ as the perfect example. Though He was God, He emptied Himself, took the form of a servant, and humbled Himself even to death on a cross. Because of that humility, God highly exalted Him. The pattern is clear: humility comes before exaltation.

True humility is not thinking too little of yourself or too much of yourself. It is having a right view of who you are before God. When we humble ourselves, God lifts us according to His purpose.

A practical way to see whether we are walking in the Spirit is by our fruit. What is our life producing? Stress, anger, pride, and anxiety are not the fruit of the Spirit. But love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are evidence that our lives are rooted in humility and connected to God.

Jesus said a tree is known by its fruit. Good trees bear good fruit. So the condition of our heart matters. Humility makes the soil of the heart fruitful.

The message also contrasts Christ with Satan. Satan’s fall came through pride: “I will ascend… I will make myself like the Most High.” Pride seeks self-exaltation. Christ chose self-emptying, obedience, and surrender. That is why the resurrection was such a death blow to the enemy: what looked like weakness was actually the greatest display of God’s power and humility.

Jesus laid down His life willingly, and He calls us to do the same. To follow Christ is to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and walk in new life by the Spirit. Humility is not something we manufacture to earn blessing. God gives us what we need to follow Him.

Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” is an example. What Paul wanted removed was the very thing God used to keep him humble and fruitful. Sometimes the struggle we want delivered from is the very thing God is using to form Christ in us. Weakness can become the place where God’s power rests most clearly on our lives.

So instead of only asking, “How do I get to the promise?” we should also ask, “How is God using this moment to make me humble, faithful, and fruitful?”

The call is simple: stay connected to the Father, fight pride, embrace humility, and trust God with the outcome. The fruit of the Spirit often shines brightest against hard circumstances.

Final warning and encouragement: God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Humility is not optional in the Christian life; it is essential to walking in resurrection power.

Key takeaway: The way of the cross is the way of humility, and the way of humility is the way into resurrection life.

Key Illustration: The Growing Seed (Mark 4:26–29)

•  A farmer scatters seed, then goes about daily life. 
•  He doesn’t understand how growth happens. 
•  The earth produces the harvest over time. 
•  His role: sow the seed
•  God’s role: bring the increase

Takeaway: What matters most is not just what we do—but what God does with what we do.

Personal Reflection

•  We often focus more on failures than wins (negativity bias). 
•  Frustration comes when effort doesn’t produce expected results. 
•  Question: What are you investing your time and energy into—and what return are you expecting?

Core Tension

Two competing focuses:

1. Cares of life (stress, pressure, distractions) 
2. Eternal significance (God’s kingdom, lasting fruit) 

Key Truths

1. We Overvalue What We Control

•  We think what we spend the most time on is most important. 
•  We believe success depends mainly on us. 
•  But scripture shows: God is the true source of growth.

“We sow the seed—God produces the harvest.”

2. The Cares of Life Can Choke Out Fruit (Mark 4:18–19)

•  Distractions drain time, energy, and focus. 
•  Even “good” things can crowd out what matters most. 
•  Example: Busyness, perfectionism, or unnecessary tasks stealing capacity. 

Reflection Question:
What temporary things are costing you eternal impact?

3. We Are Role Players, Not the Star

•  God is the main character; we are part of His story. 
•  1 Corinthians 3:6 – “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” 
•  True impact happens in community, not isolation. 

Goal: Be faithful and excellent in your role—not obsessed with recognition.

4. Contentment Protects Our Heart

•  The farmer simply sowed seed—faithfully and consistently. 
•  Discontentment leads to pride or frustration. 
•  Contentment keeps us grounded in God’s purpose. 

5. Abiding Produces Lasting Fruit (John 15:5,16)

•  “Abide” = remain connected over time. 
•  Many treat God as seasonal, not constant. 
•  Lasting fruit comes from consistent relationship, not occasional effort. 

Key Principle:
Staying connected to God over time produces more than we ever could alone.

Encouragement

•  You may feel like you’re on a hamster wheel—but God is still working. 
•  Even when you don’t see it, He is producing fruit. 
•  Your responsibility is simple: 
  • Sow faithfully
  • Stay connected
  • Trust God for the results

Closing Scripture (2 Corinthians 4:16–18)

•  Don’t lose heart—renewal is happening daily. 
•  Present struggles are temporary. 
•  What is unseen (eternal) matters most. 

Final Takeaway

Focus less on immediate results and more on faithful obedience.
 What you do may seem small—but in God’s hands, it produces eternal fruit that remains.

A Holy God - A Holy People

The Bible is God’s story (His story), and its truths still apply to us today.

One of the clearest themes throughout Scripture is this:

God is holy.

What Does “Holy” Mean?

The word holy simply means:

• Set apart
• Dedicated
• Separated for God’s purpose

Holiness isn’t about halos or perfection.
 It’s about being separated from what contaminates and dedicated to God.

From the very beginning, God established separation.

Creation

• God separated light from darkness (Genesis 1).
• This becomes a spiritual pattern later in Scripture:
   Light and darkness are not meant to mix.

God’s Plan to Restore Holiness

Because God is holy, sin cannot exist in His presence.

Sacrifices

Under the Old Covenant:

• Bulls and goats were sacrificed.
• Blood covered sin.
• People could approach God again.

These sacrifices didn’t disappear with Jesus.

Instead, Jesus became the final and eternal sacrifice.

The Pattern of Holiness in Israel

God restored humanity step by step by separating a portion to make the whole holy.

The Pattern

1. One man – Abraham
2. One nation – Israel
3. One tribe – Levi
4. The priests
5. The High Priest

Each level represented greater separation and dedication to God.

The Tabernacle – A Pattern of Heaven

The earthly tabernacle wasn’t random.

Hebrews 8:5

The tabernacle was a copy and shadow of the heavenly reality.

The Principle of the Holy Portion

A consistent biblical principle is:

When a portion is made holy, the whole is blessed.

Examples:

Tithing

Leviticus 27:30

The first 10% belongs to the Lord.

Setting it apart makes the rest blessed.

The Sabbath

Exodus 20

God set one day apart as holy.

Keeping one day for God blesses the rest of the week.

Firstborn Dedication

In the Old Testament, the firstborn child was dedicated to God, symbolizing that the entire family belonged to Him.

The same principle applies when we dedicate our children today.

Holiness in the New Covenant

Through Jesus, holiness is no longer limited to Israel.

Anyone who believes in Christ can now be called God’s holy people.

The apostles repeatedly addressed believers this way:

• Romans – “Called to be His holy people”
• Corinthians – “God’s church… called to be holy”
• Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians – “God’s holy people”

Holiness is no longer tied to nationality—it’s tied to faith in Christ.

A Holy People in the World

Christians are called to live set apart, but not removed from the world.

Living as God’s Holy People

Holiness isn’t perfection.

It’s choosing daily to set ourselves apart for God.

When we honor what God has called holy, He blesses the whole of our lives.

Final Challenge

Just as Paul wrote to believers across the ancient world, the same message applies today.

To the holy people of God:

• Stay strong in a weak world.
• Stay faithful in a disloyal culture.
• Keep God’s Word as the highest truth in your life.

God is holy.

And through Christ, He has called us to be holy too.

Pastor Jordon begins with the story of the two disciples walking on the road to Emmaus after Jesus’ crucifixion. They were discouraged and confused. As they walked, Jesus joined them—but they didn’t recognize Him. Only after He explained the Scriptures did they realize who He was. Their sorrow turned to excitement, and they ran to tell the other disciples.

This story reflects a common experience for believers. We can walk through life discouraged or distracted and fail to recognize that God is already with us.

Most Christians would say they know God is always with them, yet many don’t always feel that way. Pastor Jordon referenced Book of Psalms 23:4, which reminds us that God is with us even in the valley. If we truly lived with that awareness, it would change our confidence, actions, and mindset. Imagine entering a difficult situation knowing Jesus was standing right behind you saying, “I’ve got you.” Through the Holy Spirit, that is the reality for believers.

Recognizing God is something that develops as we grow in faith. Pastor Jordon described three stages:

1. Recognizing who God is – understanding His character, power, and voice.
2. Recognizing who He is to you personally – growing in a personal relationship with Christ.
3. Recognizing His work in your life – seeing how He empowers and guides you.

As our faith matures, our capacity grows—meaning God entrusts us with more responsibility and deeper experiences with Him.

The disciples illustrate this growth. Early in Jesus’ ministry they often asked, “Who is this?” In Gospel of Matthew 8, after Jesus calmed the storm, they wondered who He could be that even the wind obeyed Him. But later in Gospel of Matthew 14, after many experiences with Jesus, their response changed to worship: “Truly you are the Son of God.” Their ability to recognize Him grew through time spent walking with Him.

Peter’s story highlights this progression. When Jesus walked on water, Peter asked to come to Him. His bold step wasn’t random—it was the result of many experiences with Jesus that had built his faith.

Pastor Jordon pointed out three ways Peter’s capacity grew:

1. He listened to Jesus’ teaching and asked questions.
Peter actively sought understanding instead of staying confused.

2. He experienced miracles and spiritual revelation.
Moments where truth becomes clear deepen our ability to recognize God.

3. He obeyed Jesus’ instructions.
When Jesus told the disciples to preach, heal, and minister, Peter acted. Later, after Jesus’ resurrection, Jesus instructed Peter to “feed my sheep.” Peter eventually preached at Pentecost and thousands came to faith.

A key shift in spiritual maturity is how we pray. Early in faith we often pray, “God, fix this situation.” As we grow, our prayers change to, “Lord, empower me to respond the right way.” We begin to recognize that God often works through us, not just for us.

The challenge for believers is to spend time with God, seek understanding of His Word, remember moments of revelation, and act on His instructions. As we do, our capacity grows and we become better at recognizing God’s presence and work in our lives.

Key Theme: The Bible Is a Book of Choices

As we continue our Walk Through the Bible series, we’re looking at an overarching theme found from Genesis to Revelation:

The power of “if.”

Our anchor verse remains:

1 Corinthians 10:11–12

These things happened as examples for us… If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.

The stories of Scripture aren’t just children’s lessons. They are real accounts—often messy and intense—written so we can learn, stand firm, and avoid falling.

“If” — The Language of Covenant

The word “if” appears nearly 1,600 times in Scripture.

That tells us something:
 God works through choice.

From the beginning: Adam and Eve

Genesis 2:17

If you eat of it, you will die.

Dominion was given—but with boundaries.

Cain

Genesis 4:7

If you do well, will you not be accepted? … If you do not, sin lies at the door.

Cain had a chance to change direction. He didn’t.

Jesus

Revelation 3:20

If anyone hears my voice and opens the door…

Jesus knocks. He does not force.

Fear vs. Love

A powerful truth:

• Fear forces
• Love leads
• Faith follows

God gives us free will because love requires choice.
 Without choice, it’s not love—it’s control.

The Danger of Repeated Wrong “Ifs”

One bad choice rarely destroys someone overnight.

But repeated wrong “ifs”:

• Harden the heart
• Dull conviction
• Lead to deception

Ephesians 4:18

They have closed their minds and hardened their hearts.

Hardness develops through repeated wrong decisions.

That’s why:

Hebrews 3:13

Encourage one another daily… so none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

Generational Impact of One Right “If”

Nine generations after Adam:

Genesis 6

Every thought was consistently evil… But Noah found favor with the Lord.

The whole world chose wrong.

One man chose right.

Noah didn’t start with “Build an ark.”
 He had a life of faithful “ifs” that led to greater trust.

A Personal Example: Nehemiah

Nehemiah 1:8–9

If you return to Me… I will gather you.

Nehemiah read that promise and said:
 “That’s my ‘if.’”

He took personal responsibility and acted on it.

We Still Live in an “If” World

Romans 8:13

If you live according to the flesh, you will die.
 But if by the Spirit…

Even under grace, choices matter.

God controls history.
 He does not control your decisions.

The Cloud of Witnesses

Hebrews 12:1–2

We are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses…

They lived the life of faith.
 They resisted sin—even to persecution and death.

Jesus is our ultimate example:

• He resisted to the point of sweating blood.
• He chose the right “if” every time.
• He is the author and finisher of our faith.

Final Question: What “If” Are You Choosing?

• Are you revisiting an old decision God asked you to make?
• Are you at the beginning of a small choice that could harden your heart?
• Are you standing alone at work or in family situations?

Remember:
 You are not alone.

There is a cloud of witnesses cheering for faith.
 There is a Savior who initiated your faith and will perfect it.

Every day, you choose your “if.”

Choose faith.
 Choose obedience.
 Choose to draw near.

And as Scripture promises:

Draw near to Him —
&

1. The Source of Resemblance

In the natural, family resemblance comes from DNA—a biological code passed from generation to generation. DNA carries traits that strengthen and shape future generations.

Spiritually, there is also a “divine DNA.” As children of God, we are called to reflect our Father. The question is:
 When the world sees us, do they recognize the family resemblance?

2. Children of God – A Growing Revelation

1 John 3:2

“Beloved, now we are children of God… when He appears, we shall be like Him.”

• We are already God’s children.
• Yet we do not fully see what we will become.
• What we know of God now is only partial—like looking through a cloudy lens.
• The fullness of who He is will only be revealed when we are perfected.

Two key reminders:

1. Don’t underestimate God’s greatness. Even our greatest spiritual moments are only a fraction of who He is.
2. Don’t underestimate the promise. We will be like Him. That promise is greater than we can imagine.

3. Moses and the Glory of God

Exodus 33:18–23

Moses asked to see God’s glory.
 God allowed him only to see His “goodness” pass by.

• No one could see God’s full glory and live.
• What we experience now is only the aftermath—the residue—of His presence.

Like entering a house after a fire has passed:
 You see the effects, but not the full intensity.

In our lives, transformation is evidence that God has passed through.

4. What Does Looking Like Jesus Mean?

Three key attributes:

1. Oneness with the Father – Deep relationship and alignment with God.
2. Spirit-led living with visible fruit – Character that reflects the Spirit.
3. Love for people and justice – Compassion and righteousness together.

Ask yourself:

• Am I growing in these areas?
• Is there visible spiritual resemblance?

5. God Already Sees the Finished Product

Romans 8:29

“He predestined us to be conformed to the image of His Son.”

God has already seen the perfected version of you.

Unlike us, God does not start a project without completing it.
 Even when we fall short, He is the One perfecting the process.

We work toward Christlikeness—but He completes the transformation.

6. From Glory to Glory

2 Corinthians 3:16–18

“When one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away… we are being transformed… from glory to glory.”

Key truths:

• The veil is removed in Christ.
• We have greater access than previous generations.
• We are in a continuous transformation process.

“Being transformed” is present and ongoing.
 Every trial, every growth moment, every act of obedience contributes.

7. Generational Growth

Throughout Scripture, clarity increases:

• From Moses and the veil,
• To Christ,
• To the Spirit within us.

Access to God has expanded.

What we know of God should become the foundation for our children.
 Each generation should reflect Him more clearly.

God is perfecting not only individuals—but generations.

8. A Living Picture

Our lives are a picture of Christ.

Sometimes our resemblance may look abstract—like a toddler’s drawing.
 But as we mature, the image should become clearer.

The goal:

• Stronger resemblance
• Clearer image
• Greater reflection of Christ

Final Encouragement

We are in process.

God foreknew us.
 He sees the finished version.
 We are being transformed now—and will continue to be.

Let the world see the family resemblance.

A Walk Through the Bible – Series Introduction

Big Picture Purpose

• This series is not just a history lesson.
• It’s about why we believe what we believe.
• Every word of Scripture is:
  • True
  • Right
  • Still relevant today

Instead of deep-diving into one book, we’re stepping back for the 30,000-foot view—seeing the Bible as one connected story and one unified plan of God.

The Old Testament: Written for Us

1 Corinthians 10:11–13 teaches:

• The events of the Old Testament happened as real history.
• They were written as examples for us.
• They are instruction for those “upon whom the ends of the world have come.”

We often quote verse 13 (“God won’t give you more than you can handle”), but in context it refers to Israel’s failures.
 The lesson:

• Don’t assume, “I wouldn’t have done that.”
• Instead ask:
  • What did they do wrong?
  • What can I learn?
  • How do I avoid repeating it?

The Bible as One Connected Story

When read as a whole, you see:

• Adam (~4000 BC)
• Abraham (~2000 BC)
• David (~1000 BC)
• Christ (0)

History accelerates toward Jesus.

Matthew 1:17 highlights:

• 14 generations: Abraham → David
• 14 generations: David → Exile
• 14 generations: Exile → Christ

God was moving history toward fulfillment.

The entire biblical story unfolds in a relatively small geographic region—yet its impact spread across the Roman Empire within 300 years and now across the world.

Key Principles for Reading the Bible

1. God is always right.
   • Even when consequences seem severe.
   • God is love—Old Testament and New.
2. Always ask:
   • How does this apply to me?
   • What can I learn from their example?

The Old Covenant vs. The New Covenant

The Old Covenant

• Given through Moses.
• Centered on the Ten Commandments (Deuteronomy 4:13).
• A binding agreement:
  • Obey → Blessing
  • Disobey → Consequences

The core command:

• Worship God alone.

Israel repeatedly broke that covenant—especially through idolatry.

The problem wasn’t the covenant.
 The problem was the human heart.

God Promises Something New

In Jeremiah 31:31–34, God promises:

• A new covenant
• His law written on hearts
• Sins forgiven and remembered no more

What Changed?

Hebrews explains:

• The old system was a shadow.
• Jesus fulfilled the law completely.
• He satisfied the covenant perfectly—the only human ever to do so.
• The first covenant wasn’t “bad”; it was incomplete because people couldn’t fulfill it.

When Jesus fulfilled it, it was completed—not discarded.

Then came the New Covenant:

• Based on better promises
• Mediated by Christ
• Internal transformation instead of external regulation

Under the Old Covenant:

• God’s rule was external.
• Access to God required priests and sacrifices.
• Sin kept distance between God and man.

Under the New Covenant:

• The veil was torn.
• Jesus became our High Priest.
• The Kingdom is now within us.
• The Spirit of God lives in us.

Instead of rules written on stone, the law is written on hearts.

God’s Unchanging Plan

From Adam onward:

• God wanted relationship.
• Sin created separation.
• The Law created temporary access.
• Jesus restored permanent relationship.

The plan never changed—only the covenant structure did.

Our Opportunity Today

The heroes of Scripture (Abraham,

The Courtroom Analogy

• Imagine life as a courtroom where believers serve as witnesses.
• Our credibility is shaped by integrity. When our words and actions align, our witness is strengthened.
• If our lifestyle contradicts our testimony, it weakens our influence for God’s kingdom.

What Makes Someone a Witness?

A witness is someone who has:

• Seen something
• Heard something
• Experienced something
• Has a unique perspective on truth

This experience becomes our testimony.

Types of Spiritual Witnesses

• Eyewitness: Shares personal experiences of God’s work.
• Character Witness: Demonstrates God’s goodness through lifestyle and example.
• Expert Witness: Testifies to specific areas where God has been faithful (provider, healer, deliverer, etc.).

Testimony Often Comes Through Trials

• Many testimonies come from difficult seasons we didn’t choose.
• God uses hardships to create stories that encourage and strengthen others.
• Our testimony is not optional—it is part of our calling.

Biblical Foundation for Being Witnesses

Acts 1:8 – The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses everywhere.
Acts 22:14-15 – God reveals Himself so believers can testify about what they have seen and heard.
Isaiah 43:10 – God declares, “You are my witnesses.”

The Power of Testimony

Revelation 12:11 teaches believers overcome the enemy through:

1. The blood of Jesus
2. The word of their testimony

Testimonies are vital in spiritual victory and advancing God’s kingdom.

Four Truths About Being Key Witnesses

1. You Are Under Witness Protection

• Our identity is hidden in Christ (Colossians 3:3).
• God protects and preserves us as we share our testimony.

2. Christ Overrules Objections

• The enemy accuses believers of unworthiness.
• Jesus intercedes as our advocate (Romans 8:33-34).
• Our testimony is valid because of Christ, not personal perfection.

3. Guard the Authenticity of Your Witness

• Actions and character matter.
• A damaged lifestyle can weaken credibility.
• Believers should pursue integrity so their lives support their message.

4. Stick to Your Testimony During Cross-Examination

• Life challenges and doubts test our faith.
• Like Jesus and Paul, believers must stand firm in truth.
• Faith remains steady regardless of circumstances or outcomes.

Willing vs. Reluctant Witnesses

• Some eagerly share their testimony.
• Others hesitate due to fear, shame, or doubt.
• Regardless of willingness, believers are still called to testify.

Final Takeaways

• Every believer has been “served” with the responsibility to testify about God’s goodness.
• Our life journey—both victories and struggles—brings glory to God.
• True success is faithfully representing Christ wherever God places us.

Sometimes as I’m praying and meditating about upcoming sermons, the Lord drops a phrase in my spirit, something I wasn’t thinking about but I know is the Lord. My first thought typically is “how is that an entire message?”  It requires some digging in the Word to get all of the ingredients together for the meal.  

Today’s message is the outcome of a single phrase: “let your yes be yes”.  Of course, this comes from Scripture.  Turn to Matthew 5. This is Jesus first time preaching in public.  History has labeled it the Sermon on the Mount.  God the Father’s instruction to the Son to speak these words as the first message isn’t by chance, but by design.  

Think about it, there has been no new spoken word from the Lord for 400 years so you know the first new Word to be spoken is important. God wanted His people to know how He works and how we should live with each other. It wasn’t a change to the Law but a deeper understanding of it and an introduction to the Kingdom of God and how it works.

In present times, we hear the word vow associated with marriage.  But while we might not use the word regularly, we words we say fall under the definition of a vow: promise, swear, giving your word.  

The books of the Law say this: 

Numbers 30:1-2

Then Moses summoned the leaders of the tribes of Israel and told them, “This is what the Lord has commanded: 2 A man who makes a vow to the Lord or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. He must do exactly what he said he would do.

Leviticus 5:4

4 “Or suppose you make a foolish vow of any kind, whether its purpose is for good or for bad. When you realize its foolishness, you must admit your guilt.

In His first sermon, Jesus expounds the Law this way:

Matthew 5:33-37

33 “You have also heard that our ancestors were told, ‘You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the Lord.’ 34 But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, ‘By heaven!’ because heaven is God’s throne. 35 And do not say, ‘By the earth!’ because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, ‘By Jerusalem!’ for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. 36 Do not even say, ‘By my head!’ for you can’t turn one hair white or black. 37 Just say a simple, ‘Yes, I will,’ or ‘No, I won’t.’ Anything beyond this is from the evil one.

Anything other than a simple yes or no, is from the evil one. “I promise I’ll never do that again”. “by god next time he does that, I’m going to…”

We finished the series Speaking from the Heart which taught us the importance of our words in staying in agreement with the Father.  In the same way, the Father keeps His Word, keeps His promises and expects the same of those made in His image. 

Let your yes be a simple yes and your no, no.  

Key Scripture

Exodus 20:17

“You shall not covet…”

• Unlike earlier commandments that prohibit actions, this commandment targets thoughts, desires, and heart posture
• It addresses how we:
  • View ourselves
  • View others
  • View what we have and what we lack

What It Means to Covet

• Coveting = an unhealthy desire or lust for what God has given to someone else, or has not yet ordained for you
• It begins in the heart, not behavior
• Often fueled by comparison, which steals joy

Why This Matters Today

• Covetousness is deeply natural—even visible in children
• Social media intensifies it:
  • We covet what others display
  • We also project images designed to make others covet
• This commandment forces heart-level examination in both directions

What Overflows from a Covetous Heart

• Envy and jealousy
• Discontentment and complaining
• Misaligned prayers driven by comparison
• A violation of Jesus’ command to love your neighbor as yourself

Two Guardrails Against Coveting

Humility (When Receiving Praise)

1 Peter 5:5–6

• God resists the proud, gives grace to the humble
• We don’t seek exaltation—God does it in His time

Contentment (When Wanting More)

• Hebrews 13:5 — Be content; God is present
• Philippians 4:11–13 — Contentment in plenty or need
• 1 Timothy 6:6–8 — Godliness with contentment is great gain
• “I can do all things” is about contentment, not self-promotion

Three Common Ways We Encounter Covetousness

1. Through Ambition

• Ambition can be healthy or sinful
• The key question: Why do I want to advance?
• Kingdom ambition produces prayer and gratitude—not resentment

2. Through Discontentment and Envy

• Discontentment = dissatisfaction with where God has placed us
• Leads to envy when we overvalue others’ blessings
• Two root problems:
  • Wrong perspective — we can’t see clearly
  • Wrong valuation — undervaluing what God has given us
• Jesus’ warning (Luke 12:15)
  • Life does not consist in possessions

3. Through Scarcity & Domination Thinking

• Belief that life is a zero-sum game:
  • If you win, I lose
• Leads to unhealthy competition, control, and fear
• Philippians 4:19 — God supplies all needs from His riches
• God is limitless, not scarce

Heart-Level Diagnosis

Covetousness often reveals:

• Distrust in God
• Ungratefulness
• Misplaced ambition
• Wrong perspective and valuation
• Fear that there isn’t “enough” to go around

Jesus: The Ultimate Example

• Tempted with power, riches, and glory
• Resisted covetousness because He knew what He already had:
  • A perfect relationship with the Father
• True contentment flows from valuing God above everything else

Final Takeaways

• Run your race—don’t measure your life by others
• Guard your ambition, perspective, and desires
• Root out covetousness before it takes hold
• Seek first the kingdom
• Trust the God of more than enough

Core Truth:
The key to a blessed life is obedience.
 The key to obedience is the tongue.

This message ties together the Law, faith, and daily Christian living—showing how words shape obedience and outcomes.

God’s Word Was Meant to Be Spoken

• Scripture (Old & New Testament) remains fully relevant—God does not change.
• Jesus fulfilled the Law; He did not eliminate it.
• The Ten Commandments are called the “Ten Words”—spoken directly by God.
• God gave His Word in written form so it could be remembered, repeated, and obeyed.

Obedience Brings Blessing

• “Obey” appears 321 times in the Old Testament; 75 times in Deuteronomy.
• Moses repeatedly emphasized obedience because it leads to life and blessing.
• Obedience is fueled by keeping God’s Word in our mouth and heart.
• Example: Nehemiah—God’s Word was spoken into his heart, producing faith and action.

The Word Is Near You

Deuteronomy 30:11–15

• God’s command is not distant or unreachable.
• It is on your lips and in your heart—so that you can obey it.
• Obedience is a daily choice between:
  • Life or death
  • Blessing or disaster

We love the promises—but the path to them is obedience.

Righteousness vs. Blessing

• We are made righteous by faith in Jesus, not by obedience.
• But blessing still flows through obedience.
• Christianity is different: Jesus did the work we couldn’t do.
• Yet our daily choices still matter—and words guide those choices.

Faith Is Spoken

Romans 10

• Faith “says” something—and also knows what not to say.
• Salvation itself comes through:
  • Believing in the heart
  • Declaring with the mouth that Jesus is Lord
• Faith stays alive through spoken Word.

The Shield of Faith

• The enemy attacks first with thoughts.
• Thoughts become words; words shape belief and direction.
• The shield of faith stops fear-filled thoughts before they reach the mouth.
• Speaking God’s Word aloud protects the heart and redirects life.

Speaking the Word Builds Faith

• Faith is visible—and audible.
• You can hear whether someone is in faith by what they say.
• Feeding fear (news, projections, worst-case scenarios) weakens faith.
• Speaking Scripture strengthens faith and brings peace.

Speaking in the Spirit

• New Testament gifts include speaking, prophecy, and tongues.
• Tongues:
  • Build up the believer
  • Speak mysteries directly to God
  • Bypass the mind and align with God’s will
• Romans 8:26 — The Spirit helps us pray when we don’t know how.
• Paul prayed in tongues often—and it fueled revelation and strength.

Words Determine Direction

• Words either advance God’s will or the enemy’s.
• Faith-filled speech produces life; fear-filled speech produces bondage.
• Change doesn’t start by “trying harder”—it starts by changing words.

God Listens to Faith Talk

Malachi 3:16–18

• Those who feared the Lord spoke often to one another.
• God listened and recorded their words in a book of remembrance.
• The difference between righteous and wicked is revealed by speech.

Final Takeaway

The key to a blessed life is obedience.
 The key to obedience is the tongue.

When we honor God’s Word by keeping it in our hearts and on our lips, obedience follows—and blessing flows.

Podcast Notes — Law of Christ (Part 6B): Do Unto Others (Stealing & Truth)

Series Context

• Law of Christ series uses the Ten Commandments as a mirror, not a means of salvation.
• We are saved by faith in Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the law.
• The law remains holy, righteous, and good (Romans 7:7, 12).
• Ongoing question: How am I doing in this area when I hold my life up to God’s Word?

Focus Commandments (Exodus 20:15–16)

• You shall not steal
• You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor

1. You Shall Not Steal — A Heart Issue

Jesus’ Teaching

• John 10:1, 10:
  • The thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy
  • Jesus comes to give abundant life
• Stealing is the opposite of God’s nature and God’s intent.

Stealing Goes Beyond Money

• Material possessions
• Time (dishonest work habits)
• Energy (draining others selfishly)
• Credit (taking recognition that isn’t earned)

Where Stealing Starts

• External actions reflect internal heart posture.
• Violating “do unto others” begins in the heart long before behavior.

Matthew 15:18–19

• From the heart come:
  • Evil thoughts
  • Theft
  • False witness
• Behavior reveals what has been planted inside.

Replacing Thief-Thoughts with the Word

Common thoughts that lead toward stealing—and their scriptural counters:

• “I’m tired of waiting; I’ll take what I want.”
  → Galatians 6:9 — Don’t grow weary; a harvest is coming.
• “I need this more than they do.”
  → Philippians 4:19; Psalm 23:1; Matthew 6:8 — God supplies every need.
• “No one will notice.”
  → Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13 — Nothing is hidden from God.

Practice:

• Recognize harmful thoughts.
• Cast them down.
• Replace them with Scripture to keep the heart healthy.

2. You Shall Not Bear False Witness — Preserving Truth

What False Witness Means

• More than lying—it’s giving false testimony, especially about others.
• It corrupts justice and destroys trust within community.

God’s System for Establishing Truth

Deuteronomy 19:15

• Truth is established by two or three witnesses.
• This principle:
  • Forms the basis of justice systems
  • Runs throughout all of Scripture

Examples

• Deuteronomy 30:19 — Heaven and earth called as witnesses
• 1 Corinthians 15:6 — Over 500 witnesses to the resurrection
• Revelation 11 — Two witnesses in the future tribulation

Why It Matters

• False witness perverts God’s design for truth.
• One lie multiplies and erodes trust over time.

Key Principle

• Not just “don’t lie” — “In all things, be truthful.”

3. Our Words Partner with God

• Testimony reinforces truth in others’ lives.
• Revelation 12:11 — We overcome by:
  • The blood of the Lamb
  • The word of our testimony
• When God works in us and we testify, we partner with Him in establishing faith.

Closing Challenge

• Guard what fills your heart.
• Speak truth intentionally.
• Model integrity for the next generation.
• Don’t just avoid falsehood—actively tell the truth.

Series Focus:
Continuing the series on speaking from the heart—understanding that words are not cheap; they carry power whether spoken intentionally or not. God accomplishes His will through His Word, and our words matter most when they align with His.

A New Year, A Wise Perspective

• God’s mercies are new every morning, but new years give us moments to reflect and refocus.
• Psalm 90:12 — “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
• Wisdom grows when we recognize life’s brevity and steward our time intentionally.
• We don’t redeem time by regret, but by aligning with God’s plan moving forward (Ephesians).

Words Direct the Course of Life

• Whatever fills the heart eventually comes out of the mouth.
• James: the tongue is the rudder of the ship and the bridle of the horse—small, but direction-setting.
• Real change doesn’t start with actions alone, but with identity and words.
  • Don’t start with “what I’ll do,” start with “who God says I am.”
  • Actions follow words that shape belief.

God’s Word Produces Results

• Isaiah 55:11 — God’s Word always accomplishes its purpose.
• Throughout Scripture, God spoke seeds before fruit appeared.
• Jesus is the Word made flesh—God’s spoken will becoming tangible reality.
• God’s Word releases the Spirit’s power; speaking God’s Word invites the Spirit to move mightily.

The Power of the Trinity at Work

• God operates through:
  • The Father — His will
  • The Spirit — His power
  • The Word (Jesus) — His action
• The Spirit is like fuel; the Word is the spark.
• Psalm 138:2 — God has exalted His Word and His Name above all things.
• The more we exalt God’s Word in our lives, the more power we will see.

Faith Requires the Right Words

• Israel missed the Promised Land because their words were rooted in fear.
• Joshua and Caleb entered because their words were rooted in faith.
• Faith must be spoken to be effective—belief alone is not enough.
• Healing, provision, and victory are received when God’s will, Spirit, and Word work together.

A Word for Our Church in 2026

Simple phrases to speak consistently this year:

1. Multiplication
   • Genesis 1:28; Acts 6:7
   • God’s blessing includes growth and increase.
2. Fruit That Abounds & Remains
   • Philippians 4:17; John 15:16
   • Not just numbers, but lasting discipleship.
3. Serving Families
   • Romans 12:11
   • A church where families serve, not just attend.
4. A Place of Our Own
   • Exodus 15:17
   • A God-prepared place—not a burden, but a blessing.

Final Encouragement

• These phrases are not mantras, but God-given words to be spoken in faith.
• When God’s will, Spirit, and Word come together—and we speak in faith—the Word becomes flesh.
• This principle applies personally, in families, workplaces, and the church.
• Ask God for your word. Speak it. Believe it. Watch it produce fruit.

Message Focus

• A pause in the Law of Christ series to reflect on God’s preparation
• Transitioning from 2025 into 2026
• Theme: God uses seasons of preparation to ready us for what’s next

Key Scripture

Philippians 1:6

• God finishes what He starts
• We are all in process until Christ returns
• Whether or not we hit our goals, God is still working

Reframing the Year

• We often measure years by:
  • Goals accomplished
  • Resolutions kept
  • Vision boards fulfilled
• New question to ask:
  • What did I face that I didn’t plan for?
  • How did God prepare me through it?
• Disappointment over unmet goals can blind us to hidden preparation

Preparation Is God’s Pattern

• God prepares us not just for next year—but for:
  • Future assignments
  • Generational impact
  • Long-term fruit
• 2025 may have been preparation for something far beyond 2026

Biblical Examples of Preparation

1. Moses — God Places the Gift First

Acts 7:23–36

Core Truth

• God already places the good stuff inside us
• Preparation is about shaping character, not creating gifts

Moses’ Preparation

• Gift present early: justice & deliverer’s heart
• Problem: lacked character, patience, confidence
• 40 years in Midian taught him:
  • Spiritual counsel (Jethro)
  • Responsibility (husband & father)
  • Shepherding (leading people)
• God refined what was already inside him

Takeaway

• Failing to submit to preparation is one way we rob God
• Gifts require development to carry their weight

Illustration — The Yo-Yo

• Wanting the gift without learning the process leads to frustration
• God teaches steps before success
• Skipping preparation results in burnout and disappointment

2. David — Preparation Is Humbling

1 Samuel 16–18

Core Truth

• Preparation is often:
  • Undignified
  • Hidden
  • Humbling

David’s Journey

• Anointed king → sent back to the fields
• Defeats Goliath → still not king
• Serves Saul → becomes Saul’s enemy
• 15 years of preparation before the throne

What David Learned

• Respect for God-ordained authority
• Trust in God’s protection
• Accountability
• Faithfulness without recognition

Key Insight

• God often prepares us outside the spotlight
• Social media makes waiting harder—but waiting builds depth

3. Paul — Preparation Produces Boldness

Acts 9

Core Truth

• Faithful preparation leads to confidence and boldness

Paul’s Process

• Dramatic conversion on Damascus Road
• Then three years of preparation
• Developed:
  • Confidence in calling
  • Boldness in message
  • Wisdom to address his past

Takeaway

• You can’t step out boldly if you haven’t been prepared quietly

Final Takeaways

• God has already placed gifts inside you
• Preparation can feel slow, humbling, and unseen
• Faithful preparation produces confidence when the time comes
• Don’t resent your season—learn from it

Key Text: Luke 2:1 — “And it came to pass…”

1. Words Are Never Just Introductory

• Scripture doesn’t use filler language.
• “And it came to pass” signals something generated, not merely reported.
• The Bible is God’s living Word, carrying power and purpose.

2. Speaking From the Heart

• Jesus: “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
• What fills our heart shapes what we say—and what we say shapes our lives.
• Words spoken in faith (positive or negative) drive real outcomes.

3. “It Came to Pass” = Genomai

The Greek word genomai means:

• To come into existence
• To be made or completed
• To generate or cause to be

When Scripture says “it came to pass,” it implies creation in motion.

4. Words Plant Seeds

• Speaking God’s Word is sowing seed—first into our own hearts.
• We can’t give what we don’t have in abundance (peace, healing, salvation).
• Words begin processes that later bear fruit.

5. Prophecy Was Seed-Planting

• Genesis 3:15: Promise of a Savior spoken immediately after the Fall.
• Isaiah 7:14: A virgin will conceive.
• Micah 5:2: The Savior will be born in Bethlehem.
• Luke 1–2: The fulfillment—Mary, Joseph, Jesus.

These weren’t predictions only—they were mechanisms God used to bring the Savior into existence.

6. God Speaks, Time Responds

• God knows the end from the beginning.
• When He speaks, it’s already “done,” even if time passes before manifestation.
• Mark 11:24 — We believe we receive when we pray, not when we see.

7. Genomai in Action (New Testament)

• Matthew 6:10 — “Thy will be done (genomai).”
• Matthew 8:13 — “As you have believed, so be it done.”
• Matthew 8:26 — Jesus speaks peace; a great calm comes to pass.
• Matthew 9:29 — “According to your faith be it done.”

Faith-filled words generate results.

8. Our Responsibility Today

• God works through spoken faith—not wishful thinking.
• Start with God’s Word (Scripture or a personal promise).
• Speak it consistently, even before specifics appear.
• Generic words lead to specific fulfillment—just like Mary.

9. Application

• Speak peace into chaos.
• Speak healing over sickness.
• Speak God’s future over your children, work, church, and relationships.
• Words mixed with faith produce visible fruit.

Bottom Line:
The Word spoken becomes flesh.
God generates His will through words—and He invites us to do the same.

Series Context

• Law of Christ
• Focus: the remaining commandments that govern how we treat others
• These commandments move from God-focused to community-focused obedience

The Commandments in View (Exodus 20:13–16)

• You shall not murder
• You shall not commit adultery
• You shall not steal
• You shall not bear false witness

Why These Matter

• They establish:
  • The value of human life
  • The sanctity of marriage
  • Respect for others’ property
  • A foundation for justice
• These laws govern life within community, especially Christian community

The Law as a Mirror

• God’s Word functions as a mirror, not a checklist
• We don’t read Scripture to excuse ourselves, but to examine our hearts
• Grace forgives us, but grace does not excuse careless obedience

The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12)

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

• Jesus says this sums up the Law and the Prophets
• Obedience to God is lived out through how we treat people
• Christianity cannot be lived in isolation—it requires community

Jesus Raises the Standard (Matthew 5)

Jesus doesn’t just address outward actions—He addresses the heart.

Murder Begins with Anger (Matt. 5:21–22)

• Murder starts with unrighteous anger
• Anger allowed to take root produces:
  • Bitterness
  • Envy
  • Destructive words
  • Ultimately, violence
• Words reveal what’s growing in the heart
• The warning isn’t just about actions—it’s about spiritual danger

Adultery Begins with Lust (Matt. 5:27–30)

• Lust in the heart is adultery in seed form
• Jesus’ extreme language shows how serious early sin is
• Small compromises grow into life-altering consequences
• Sin must be confronted early, before it takes root

The Battle of the Heart

• The heart is fertile ground—it will grow something
• God’s Word and sinful desires compete for root
• We must actively tend our hearts:
  • Pull weeds early
  • Guard thoughts
  • Discipline inputs
• No one is far from failure—stay humble and vigilant

Jesus Fulfilled the Heart of the Law

• Jesus didn’t just avoid sin—He fulfilled God’s intent perfectly
• He harbored no bitterness, no lust, no accusation
• Because He could not even be accused, we cannot be convicted
• His perfect obedience makes our salvation possible

The Cross and Covenant Love

• Jesus’ teaching on adultery reveals His devotion to the Church
• He didn’t just warn against unfaithfulness—He demonstrated faithfulness
• On the cross, Jesus sacrificed Himself fully for His Bride
• The law isn’t about rule-keeping—it’s about covenant love

Key Takeaways

• The law exposes our hearts, not just our behavior
• Sin begins long before it becomes visible
• Grace forgives, but obedience transforms
• Our goal is not perfection, but growing Christlikeness
• Every look in the mirror should draw us back to the cross

1. Core Truth of the Series

• What fills the heart eventually comes out of the mouth—especially under pressure.
• You can mask speech temporarily, but pressure reveals true belief.
• To change what we say, we must first change what fills our heart.

2. Jesus’ Emphasis: Heart Over Appearance

• The Pharisees focused on outward behavior; Jesus focused on heart condition.
• “It’s not what goes in that defiles you, but what comes out.”
• Our words reveal the true spiritual condition of the heart.

3. Words Flow From Design

• We are made in God’s image—created to live, move, and function like Him.
• God never speaks empty words; every word carries purpose and power.
• Since we’re designed this way, our words are meant to carry substance.

4. Isaiah 55: God’s Word Always Produces

• God’s Word:
  • Never returns empty
  • Always accomplishes its assignment
  • Always prospers where it’s sent
• “Prosper” means more than finances—it means empowered success.

5. God’s Word as Seed (Mark 4)

• The Word is the seed; the heart is the soil.
• The seed is always good—results depend on the ground.
• Different heart conditions:
  • Hard ground → Word stolen
  • Rocky ground → No root
  • Thorny ground → Choked by life’s cares
  • Good soil → 30, 60, 100-fold fruit

6. The Seed Contains Everything

• Just like an acorn contains an oak tree, God’s Word contains the full outcome.
• The Word itself never fails—but it must be received and nurtured.
• Growth depends on how we guard and cultivate our hearts.

7. “Prosper” = Spirit-Empowered Success

• Same Hebrew word used for:
  • Joseph’s success
  • Samson’s supernatural strength
  • David’s anointing
• God’s Word carries the Spirit of the Lord to accomplish the task.
• Prosperity is Spirit-powered effectiveness—not just money.

8. Words Are Containers

• Words always carry something—faith or fear, blessing or limitation.
• Empty words produce empty results.
• God’s words are fully loaded with authority, power, and command.

9. Change the Harvest by Changing the Seed

• Want different results? Sow different words.
• Don’t ship empty packages—send Word-filled declarations.
• Speak what God has said, not what circumstances suggest.

10. Faith Pattern Still Works Today (Romans 10)

• Faith comes by hearing—and hearing by the Word.
• Just like salvation:
  • Believe in the heart
  • Confess with the mouth
  • Results follow
• Healing, provision, and breakthrough follow the same pattern.

11. Receiving Activates the Power

• God has already sent the Word—salvation, healing, provision are available.
• The Word becomes effective when it’s received, believed, and spoken.
• The seed produces when it finds good ground.

12. Guard Against an Overcharged Heart

• Cares of life, fear, and distractions choke the Word.
• Don’t let circumstances dominate heart content.
• Focus on what God said—not what you see.

13. Speak Ahead of Sight

• Speak promises without deadlines or pressure.
• Declare what God has said and keep moving forward.
• Faith doesn’t explain how—it simply agrees with God.

Closing Confession

• Receive the Word.
• Expect the Spirit of the Lord to move mightily.
• Believe God’s will can be done on earth through spoken faith.

Key Text

• Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”
• Ephesians 6:1–3 – The first commandment with a promise.

1. Why This Commandment Matters

• This command sits in the middle of the Ten Commandments—between spiritual laws and moral laws.
• Its placement shows how important honoring parents is to God.
• Jesus fulfilled the law perfectly:
  • He satisfied the law’s demands.
  • He modeled how to live a holy, obedient life.

2. What “Honor” Really Means

• Honor = respect in word and action, with an inward attitude of esteem.
• Honor begins with respecting the position of parent, even when the person fell short.
• The goal is respect for both position and merit—but position still deserves honor.
• Example: saluting the rank/uniform, not the person—honoring authority even when relationships are difficult.

3. A Cultural Tension We Must Navigate

• Our generation emphasizes emotional health and personal healing—which is good.
• But reflecting on childhood wounds can sometimes harden hearts toward parents.
• Even in cases of neglect, abuse, immaturity, or addiction:
  • God’s command does not change.
• The challenge: learning how to honor parents without denying real pain.

4. The Promise Attached to Honor

• Paul calls this the first commandment with a promise:
  • “That it may go well with you and that you may live long.”
• We never graduate from this command—even as adults.
• There is wisdom and benefit built into honoring parents.

5. Three Benefits of Honoring Parents

1. Personal Healing
2. Setting a Generational Pattern
3. Breaking Generational Trauma

6. God Takes Disobedience Seriously

• Romans 1:28–32 and 2 Timothy 3:1–5 list “disobedient to parents” alongside grave sins.
• Why so serious?
  1. It violates God’s divine order meant for protection.
  2. Rejecting earthly authority makes it harder to submit to God’s authority.
• Hebrews 12:9 – Respecting earthly parents trains us to honor God as Father.

7. Jesus as the Perfect Example

• Luke 2:41–52 – Jesus at age 12 in the temple.
• Though spiritually exceptional, Jesus:
  • Returned home.
  • Was submissive to His parents.
• For 18 years, He lived under their authority.
• Result: “Jesus increased in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man.”
• Lesson:
  • Surpassing parents in knowledge, skill, or spirituality does not remove the call to honor.

8. Honor in Action, Not Just Words

• Matthew 15:3–9 – Jesus condemns “lip-service honor.”
• The Pharisees used religion to avoid caring for parents.
• We should pray: “Lord, what does honor look like in this season?”

9. Giving Grace and Ongoing Care

10. A Generational Vision (Jeremiah 35)

• Lesson:
  • Obedience to parents produces long-term generational protection and blessing.
  • What we model today may protect descendants we will never meet.

11. Final Challenge

• Honoring parents is not just personal—it’s generational.
• Our obedience today shapes our children, grandchildren, and beyond.
• God calls families to be faithful across generations.
• It begins with honoring our fathers and mothers.

1. Review of the Core Principle

• We speak whatever fills our heart — “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”
• Whatever we consistently talk about reveals what we’re feeding our heart (sports, politics, problems, etc.).
• If praise and faith come out naturally, it shows the Word is in abundance in the heart.

2. How Words Shape Belief and Outcomes

• The tongue directs the course of life (James 3).
• Words serve two functions:
  1. They lead our heart (we speak the Word before we believe it).
  2. They release power once the heart believes.
• We speak the Word by choice, filling the heart with truth until faith rises — then power is released to accomplish what God said.

3. Four Steps to Faith

1. Find out what God said.
2. Meditate on it continually.
3. Believe it in the heart.
4. Speak it with the mouth.

• This is the Joshua 1:8 pattern: keep the Word in your mouth → meditate → obey → prosper and succeed.

4. Speaking the Word Even Before You Believe

• Example: speaking healing scriptures despite symptoms.
• Speaking the Word fills the heart; once full, faith rises; then results follow.
• God’s commands carry the power to accomplish themselves — His Word is a container of power.

5. We Are Made in God’s Image

• Being made in God’s image includes having creative authority in our words.
• God gave humanity dominion — authority expressed primarily through words.
• Our words work even when we aren’t conscious of their power.
  • Example negative confessions: “I don't know…”, “I’m losing my mind,” “This will be the death of me.”

6. The Enemy’s Strategy

• Satan tries to make words seem meaningless—endless empty chatter (cable news, complaints, speculation).
• But God cannot lie because His words always produce results.
• Our words, too, produce results—good or bad—depending on what fills the heart.

7. Deuteronomy 30 — The Word Is Near

• Moses teaches: God’s commands aren’t distant or mysterious.
• The Word is in your mouth and in your heart.
• Deuteronomy = “second law” — Moses repeating the whole law to a new generation.

8. Romans 10 — Paul Connects the Same Truth

• Paul quotes Deuteronomy: the word is near you—in your mouth and heart.
• This is “the word of faith we preach.”
• The same pattern applies to EVERYTHING:
  • Believe in the heart
  • Confess with the mouth
  • → Salvation, breakthrough, victory

9. Why Your Own Words Matter Most

• Encouragement from others helps — but your own words carry the most power in your life.
• The heart believes what the mouth continually says.

10. Life and Death by the Tongue

• Deuteronomy 30: God sets life and death, blessing and cursing before us.
• We choose life primarily by our words.
• Israel repeatedly said, “We will die in the wilderness” — and they did.
• Our confessions determine the direction we walk.

11. Salvation as the Pattern for All Faith

• Romans 10:9–10 is not a “one-time salvation-only formula” — it's the blueprint of how faith works in every area:
  • Heart-belief + mouth-confession = salvation, deliverance, healing, provision, breakthrough.

12. The Goal

• Move from long lists of prayer requests → long lists of testimonies.
• Shift from “I don’t know what to do” → “Here’s what God did.”

I. Introduction

• The Law = God’s guidelines for Israel (not just the Ten Commandments).
• Purpose: Not to justify us, but to align our lives with Christ.
• Jesus fulfilled the Law perfectly; we follow in His steps.

II. The Fourth Commandment – The Sabbath

A. Exodus 20:9–11 – The Command

• Six days of work, one day of rest.
• The Sabbath is rooted in God’s pattern at creation.
• God didn’t need rest—He modeled it for us.

B. Common Misunderstandings

• Many treat Sabbath like a list of rules: things you can and can’t do.
• Cultural examples: “No hunting or fishing on Sunday,” etc.
• Pharisees turned rest into a burden.

III. Jesus and the Sabbath

A. Mark 2:23–28

• Disciples pick grain; Pharisees accuse them of breaking the law.
• Jesus cites David eating the holy bread.
• Key point: “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
• Sabbath is meant as a blessing, not a burden.
• Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath, shows mercy outweighs legalism.

IV. Sabbath as a Gift

• God commands Sabbath because we resist receiving rest as a gift.
• Like disciplining a child: seems unpleasant, but given in love.
• Our natural response: “But I have deadlines… stress… obligations…”
• Sabbath requires trust that God knows what we need more than we do.

V. The Personal Struggle With Rest

• Jordon shares his own difficulty:
  • Raised equating manhood with constant work.
  • Feels guilt and anxiety when resting.
  • Even during family time, mind drifts to unfinished tasks.
• Sabbath must be received as a gift, not just another item on the to-do list.
• Rest should lead to gratitude and presence, not guilt.

VI. What Sabbath Produces in Us

1. Discipline

• Forces intentional planning and boundaries.

2. Prioritization

• Helps separate what truly matters from what doesn’t.
• Encourages saying “no,” delegating, and letting others help.

3. Teamwork & Delegation

• Realizing we don’t have to carry everything alone.

4. A Heart Check

• What goals or desires am I unwilling to lay down for obedience?
• Are we serving our ambitions or God’s rhythm?

VII. Sabbath Reminds Us of God’s Provision

A. We Are Not Holding the World Together

• We often think everything will collapse if we rest.
• But we’re resting in the palm of God’s hand—He carries it all.
• Jesus modeled stepping away even during intense ministry.

B. The World Keeps Turning Without Us

• Hard but freeing truth.
• We shouldn’t have to experience sickness or crisis to learn dependence on God.

C. Rest Restores Perspective

• Sabbath helps us return with clarity:
  • What can be improved?
  • What can be delegated?
  • What should be released?

VIII. Conclusion

• Sabbath is:
  1. A gracious gift from God
  2. A discipline that shapes our priorities
  3. A reminder of God’s care and our limits
• Challenge:
   Ask the Lord how He wants you to practice Sabbath—and be willing to obey.

• The message begins in Genesis 1. The Spirit of God was present over the earth, but nothing changed until God spoke. The speaking was the catalyst.
• This principle carries into our walk of faith: faith speaks. The same Spirit of faith is in us (2 Corinthians 4:13) — “I believed, therefore I spoke.”
• What we speak reveals what we really believe. Jesus taught that the mouth speaks from what fills the heart (Luke 6:45).

• If our hearts are filled more with news, fear, worry, or complaints than the Word, that’s what will come out of our mouths.
 • To speak faith, we must first believe faith. To believe, we must first hear and receive what God has said.

Four-Step Practice of Faith Speech

1. Find out what God said — through Scripture and through listening to the Holy Spirit.
2. Meditate on it — turn it over, reflect, let it take root.
3. Believe — as the Word fills you, belief grows.
4. Speak it — agreement with God's Word activates what He has already made available.

• Speaking is not “wishing something into existence.” We speak what God has already spoken, not just what we want.
• Faith speaking is not denial (“I’m not sick”), but declaration (“God has promised healing; by His stripes I am healed”).
• What we continually input determines what overflows: fill your heart steadily with the Word, like taking small sips of water all day, not one big gulp once a week.

• When belief and speech align with God’s Word, we participate with His power to bring change — just like in creation.

In this message, we continue the Law of Christ series, using the Ten Commandments as a framework to explore how Jesus fulfilled the law and how we live that out today. This week focuses on the Third Commandment — “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain” (Exodus 20:7).

1. The Meaning Behind God’s Name

In ancient Israel, the name of the Lord — Yahweh — was treated with such reverence that people refused to even say it aloud. They used titles like Adonai or Jehovah out of fear of misusing His name. Scripture shows how serious this command was: in Leviticus 24:16, blasphemy against the name of God was punishable by death.

But Jordon reminds us the deeper issue wasn’t just speech — it was heart posture. The Pharisees honored God outwardly but lived in contradiction to His character. The command not to take God’s name in vain calls us to live lives that reflect His holiness and integrity.

2. Reverence Beyond Words

To “take the Lord’s name in vain” isn’t only about avoiding curse words or false oaths — it’s about how we carry His name in daily life. When we call ourselves Christians, we bear His name. Every word, action, and attitude represents Him.

• James 5:12 echoes Jesus’ teaching: let your yes be yes and your no be no — live honestly without needing oaths.
• The goal: a life of integrity that upholds God’s name rather than misuses it.

3. Why God’s Name Matters

Two truths anchor our reverence:

1. His name is holy and worthy to be praised.
   • “O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earth.” (Psalm 8:1)
   • Jesus taught us to begin prayer with “Hallowed be Your name” (Matthew 6:9).
2. His name carries power.
   • “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)
   • Salvation and answered prayer come through His name (John 14:14; Romans 10:13).

4. Living Under His Name

We are marked by His name — children of God, Christ-followers. Like a jersey with the team’s name on the front, our lives should represent the One we belong to. Every interaction should reflect His character.

5. Guarding Against Casualness

We can misuse God’s name by becoming too casual or irreverent — treating prayer or worship lightly, joking in holy moments, or trivializing what is sacred. Jordon challenges us to recover a sense of awe — remembering that we approach a holy God only through grace.

6. The Fulfillment in Christ

Jesus perfectly honored the Father’s name.

• “I have come in My Father’s name.” (John 5:43)
• God exalted Him and gave Him “the name above every name” (Philippians 2:9–11).
  At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow — the ultimate fulfillment of the Third Commandment.

Key Takeaway:
Honoring God’s name is not just about speech — it’s about living in a way that reflects His holiness, truth, and power. When we bear His name, let our lives declare His worth.

Joshua Boyd

Key Scripture: Luke 4:18 (NLT)

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.
 He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see,
 that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.”

1. Jesus’ Mission Statement

• When Jesus read Isaiah’s prophecy in Luke 4, He announced why He came: to bring good news — not judgment.

2. The Story of Humanity — Like a Movie Plot

• Think of history as a movie:
  • The Hero (God) creates humans and gives them authority on Earth — “the keys to the house.”
  • The Villain (Satan) deceives them and takes control, introducing death, sickness, and poverty.
  • The Hero’s Plan: even from the beginning, God had a rescue mission — a Rescuer was coming.

3. The Arrival of the Rescuer

• He didn’t arrive as a warrior king but as a baby — God became one of us to rescue us.
• The Rescuer took upon Himself the curse of sin and death.

4. Accepting the Rescue

• Jesus rescued everyone, but only those who accept His gift experience freedom.
• But the truth is: we are living in the middle of the story — the rescue is in motion, and the ending is already written.

5. Life in the Kingdom of the Rescued

• Believers live under a different Kingdom even while in this world.
• The gospel replaces every “bad news” with a promise:
  • To the poor → You don’t have to be poor anymore.
  • To the sick → You are healed.
  • To the depressed → There is joy in God’s presence.
  • To the hopeless → There is life and life more abundant.

6. The Big Picture: Ephesians 2:3–10

• Humanity was dead in sin, but God, rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ.
• God has a plan for every life — and it’s a good plan.

Summary Points

• The gospel = Good News, not condemnation.
• Jesus came as the Rescuer, fulfilling God’s long-planned redemption story.
• The “movie” of humanity ends in victory for those who receive Him.
• Believers live by Heaven’s rule — healed, provided for, and filled with life.
• Our mission: share the Good News everywhere we go.

This message was recorded at a special event with multiple ministries coming together to bring Joy.  Hosted by Crown Heritage Fellowship and Armed Ministries.  

Key Verse: John 15:11 (NKJV)

“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”

1. The Promise of Jesus’ Joy

• Jesus promised not only peace, but His joy—a lasting, divine joy.
• The world’s joy is temporary and tied to circumstances; His joy remains.

2. Don’t Be Tossed by the Waves

• Many believers tie their joy to external events (economy, politics, etc.).
• James warns against being like waves—up when things go well, down when they don’t.
• Our joy should be anchored, not tossed by the winds of culture.

3. The New Testament Church Example

• Early Christians thrived under hostile Roman rule.
• They didn’t complain about government—they lived under a different Kingdom.
• Paul modeled joy even in suffering:
  • Romans 1:10–12 — “I long to see you… to encourage you, and be encouraged by you.”
  • Two key principles:
    1. Stay connected.
    2. Encourage each other.

4. Main Point: Joy Is Connected to Relationships

“Your joy—God’s joy—is connected to the relationships in your life.”

• When joy is low, check your relationships.
• God uses people to strengthen us; the enemy uses people to drain us.
• Joy flows through healthy, life-giving relationships.

5. Our Joy in God’s Presence

• Joy also comes from our relationship with God.
• David modeled this:
  • Psalm 9:2 — “I will be filled with joy because of You.”
  • Psalm 16:11 — “In Your presence is fullness of joy.”
• Worship brings the presence of God—and with it, joy.

6. Practicing God’s Presence

• You can experience His presence anywhere—at home, work, or in the car.
• Worship brings breakthrough.
• God delights in hearing His children sing.

7. Jesus’ Joy Was People

Hebrews 12:2 — “For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross…”

• That joy was you.
• Jesus saw us as worth the suffering.
• His joy was found in relationship with His people.

8. The Power of Connection

• Ecclesiastes says: A threefold cord is not easily broken.
• Strong, godly relationships keep you standing when life shakes.
• Isolated cords snap—connected ones hold.

9. Joy Strengthens Faith

• Joy and faith are linked:
  • No joy → no faith.
  • Strong joy → strong faith.
• Joy keeps you enduring through trials (James 1:2–4).

Summary Points

• Joy is not found in circumstances—it’s found in relationships.
• Stay connected—to people and to God.
• Guard your joy like your strength.
• Be the steady light others can look to when the world grows dark.

This Week’s Focus: The First Two Commandments

1. No other gods before Me
2. Do not make idols

These are the foundation of our relationship with God—who He is, and who He alone deserves to be in our lives.

1. “No Other Gods”

Exodus 20:2–3

Key Truths:

• God begins by declaring relationship — “I am your God.”
• He is both Savior and Deliverer (for Israel, from Egypt; for us, from sin).
• Because of that deliverance, He alone deserves our worship and trust.

Why This Commandment Matters:

1. We misplace our trust — putting hope in people, money, or even ourselves.
   • “The universe” won’t bless you; only God can.
2. We dishonor God — by giving His glory to someone or something else.
   • Just as we expect a “thank you,” God deserves the credit for every good thing.
3. We mislead others — by exalting ourselves instead of pointing to Him.
   • Our lives should reflect His glory, not ours.

Scriptural Insight:

• Hebrews 11:6: “He that comes to God must believe that He is…”
• Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…”

Everything begins with acknowledging who God is and giving Him His rightful place.

Practical Reflection:

• Do I ever exalt someone (or myself) above God’s Word?
• Have I taken credit for what God has done?
• Am I trusting my own understanding or submitting to His?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” — Proverbs 3:5–6

2. “No Idols”

Exodus 20:4–6

“You shall not make for yourself a carved image… you shall not bow down to them or serve them…”

Key Truths:

• An idol is anything—object, idea, or desire—that we exalt or depend on more than God.
• God warns of the generational consequences of idolatry, but also of generational blessing for obedience.
  • Punishment: to the 3rd and 4th generation
  • Blessing: to thousands of generations

What Idolatry Looks Like:

• Old Testament: Carved images, false gods, and altars.
• Today: Money, work, relationships, success, control, or even ministry itself.

Example 1: The Golden Calf (Exodus 32:1–6)

• While Moses met with God, the people grew anxious.
• They demanded something to see and touch — a substitute for God’s presence.
• They made a golden calf and called it God.

Lesson:
When we can’t “see” God working, we’re tempted to create something to worship instead.
Our anxiety often leads us to build idols of control, comfort, or distraction.

Example 2: Solomon’s Downfall (1 Kings 11:1–14)

• The wisest man alive fell into idolatry through misplaced love.
• His foreign wives turned his heart toward their gods.
• His devotion drifted from the Lord—and the nation paid the price.

Lesson:
Even wisdom and success don’t protect us from idolatry if our hearts are divided.
What we love most will ultimately shape what we worship most.

Takeaway: A Personal Inventory

• Who or what is seated in the place of God in your life?
• Do your trust and decisions reflect God as first?
• Are you passing down a legacy of worship or of misplaced priorities?

“God is a jealous God — but His love and blessing extend to thousands who love Him and keep His commandments.”

Overview

This message concludes our Parenting 101 series with a focus on maturity — both in parenting and in our spiritual walk as children of God.
Parenting mirrors how God relates to us: we guide our children toward independence from us, while God teaches us to grow more dependent on Him.

 God’s Purpose in Parenting

• Malachi 2:15 reminds us that God’s goal for families is “godly children from your union.”
• Earthly parenting trains children to move from dependence to independence.
• Spiritual parenting is the opposite — God wants His children to grow more dependent on Him over time.
• Maturity, both natural and spiritual, is revealed through trust and responsibility.

Consequences and Growth

• A good parent teaches that decisions have consequences.
• God does the same — His mercy doesn’t erase the principle of sowing and reaping.
• Galatians 6:7 principle: you cannot reap what you haven’t sown.
• Teaching children this truth early develops wisdom, self-control, and accountability.

The Goal: Maturity

• Parenting success isn’t just age milestones — it’s spiritual and emotional maturity.
• God looks for believers He can trust with responsibility, just as parents look for signs their children are ready to leave home.
• Spiritually, there’s no graduation date — maturity isn’t about years in church, but depth of relationship and obedience.

Measurements of Maturity

(a) Walking in Love – 1 Corinthians 13:4–11

• Love is the first and greatest marker of maturity.
• Children — and spiritual children — tend to be impatient, jealous, boastful, demanding, or easily irritated.
• Mature believers demonstrate patience, kindness, humility, and endurance.
• Paul said, “When I became a man, I put away childish things.”
  ➤ Maturity changes how we think, speak, and reason.
• Love that “never gives up” shows true growth.

(b) Looking Ahead – Philippians 3:13–16

• Mature believers stop living in regret or focusing on past failures.
• Like Paul, we “press on toward what lies ahead.”
• Spiritual children dwell on the past; mature believers focus forward.
• Looking ahead means:
  • Not being stuck in guilt or nostalgia.
  • Growing in understanding beyond the basics (Hebrews 6:1–3).
  • Pursuing deeper truths in God’s Word.
• God calls us to move beyond “Christianity 101” — repentance, faith, baptism — into greater revelation and obedience.

(c) Speaking with Wisdom – Matthew 12:33–37

• Jesus said, “A tree is known by its fruit.”
• Our words reveal our maturity.
  • Words show what’s in the heart.
  • Immature believers complain, compare, or doubt.
  • Mature believers speak faith, blessing, and the Word of God.
• We’ll give an account for every idle word — our speech shows whether we’ve grown up spiritually.
• Like Paul in 1 Corinthians 2, when among mature believers, we can use “words of wisdom” because our understanding has deepened.

Putting Away Childish Things

• Children say “I need” all the time. Immature believers pray that way too.
• Maturity means moving from “God, I need” to “God, what do You want me to do?”
• Maturity shows up in initiative — like a child cleaning up without being told.
   ➤ Spiritually, it’s when we obey God’s Word without needing reminders.
• Mature believers:
  • Serve others instead of self.
  • Speak faith instead of fear.
  • Live by the Word rather than by feelings.

The Fruit of Maturity

• God is loo

Opening

• New series: The Law of Christ
• Goal: Explore boundaries, authority, and holiness through God’s Word.
• Anchor: The law reveals our need for God and points us to Christ.

Connection to Previous Series

• Parenting series talked about boundaries & authority (like parental controls).
• God’s law also establishes boundaries for His people:
  • Protection
  • Blessing
  • Holiness

Purposes of the Law

1. Protection & blessing – living under God’s law set Israel apart.
2. Exposure – law shines like a flashlight, revealing sin and our need for God.
3. Holiness – calls God’s people to live differently from the world.

Human Problem with the Law

• Humanity resists boundaries and authority.
• Two common wrong responses:
  1. Rules are meant to be broken (testing the limits).
  2. Checklist for rewards (treating obedience as a transaction).
• Both reveal our need for grace.

Jesus and the Law

• Matthew 5:17–20 – Jesus came not to abolish, but to fulfill the law.
• He raised the standard of righteousness beyond Pharisees and scribes.
• True righteousness = right standing with God through Christ, not self-effort.

Example: The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16–22)

• Asked: “What must I do for eternal life?”
• Claimed to keep commandments, but unwilling to give up wealth.
• Revealed self-righteousness and exposed misplaced priorities.

Paul’s Teaching (Romans 3:21–26)

• The law shows God’s perfect standard, but cannot justify us.
• Now revealed: righteousness comes apart from the law—by grace, through faith in Christ.
• God is both just (holding sin accountable) and justifier (providing salvation through Jesus).

The Law of Christ

• Jesus summarized all law in two commands (Matthew 22:35–40; Mark 12:28–34):
  1. Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind.
  2. Love your neighbor as yourself.
• All the law and prophets hang on these.
• Christian obedience flows from love, not fear.

Takeaway Questions

• Do I treat God’s law as boundaries meant to be broken or as a checklist for rewards?
• Does my life reflect love for Christ through obedience?
• Am I motivated by fear of punishment or genuine love for God?
• Where do I see self-righteousness in my own walk?

Series Focus Going Forward

• Use the Ten Commandments as a framework.
• Shine light on different areas of life.
• Explore how each commandment points us back to Christ and the gospel.

Key Idea:
Repentance is not a one-time event at salvation—it is a continual practice for believers, parents, and children alike. Just as we teach our kids to say “I’m sorry,” God calls us to take responsibility, repent, and walk in His forgiveness.

Main Points:

• Pop Quiz: When was the last time you repented?
  Repentance should be regular, not a distant memory.
• Children & Young Christians:
  • Kids don’t always understand cause and effect; they need guidance to own mistakes.
  • Likewise, young Christians have zeal but must learn responsibility and repentance.
• Case Study – Church of Corinth (1 Cor. 5, 2 Cor. 7):
  • Energetic and gifted, but ignored serious sin in their midst.
  • Paul confronted them—“Say you’re sorry.”
  • Their repentance produced joy, zeal, and restored fellowship.
• What Repentance Means:
  • Not just “being sorry” for consequences, but godly sorrow that leads to change.
  • Worldly sorrow = regret without change → spiritual death.
  • Repentance wipes sins completely clean through Christ’s blood.
• Ongoing Need for Repentance:
  • We still battle flesh and pride.
  • Daily situations (anger, jealousy, lack of trust, pride) require us to confess and repent.
  • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive…” (1 John 1:9).
• Repentance Has a Window:
  • Cain ignored God’s warning → murder.
  • Esau traded his blessing for a meal → too late for repentance.
  • Choices have consequences even if forgiveness is given.
• Examples of True Repentance:
  • Peter denied Christ three times, but repented deeply and became a leader.
  • David sinned greatly (Bathsheba, census), but had a heart after God and repented.
• Parenting Connection:
  • We train our children not only to say “sorry,” but to mean it.
  • Consequences may vary based on sincerity and repeated disobedience.
  • Our role mirrors God’s—correcting, forgiving, and guiding toward maturity.

Takeaway:
Repentance is not about perfection, but about taking responsibility, confessing, and being restored. Godly sorrow brings life and blessing. Parents can model this truth for their children, teaching them both responsibility and the power of forgiveness.

Introduction

• Theme: Fruitfulness in Scripture (Galatians 5 – Fruit of the Spirit, Mark 4 – Parable of the Sower, John 15 – Vine and branches).
• Contrast: Unfruitfulness/Barrenness vs. Fruitfulness.
• Biblical examples of barrenness: Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, Elizabeth → God intervenes and brings fruitfulness.

Barrenness in Scripture

• Associated with reproach, emptiness, shame, curse, or lifelessness.
• Painful because it opposes God’s divine command and purpose to be fruitful and multiply.
• God uses barren situations to demonstrate His power and bring forth fruit.

Fruitfulness in Scripture

• Central to God’s design: seed, time, harvest.
• Mark 4 (Parable of the Sower) – Key principle: the seed (Word of God) is meant to produce fruit.
• Purpose of fruit: not just enjoyment, but to carry seed forward (multiplication, not just appearance).

Spiritual Fruitfulness

• Fruit = the things we say and do that carry seed (kingdom value).
• Two main expressions:
  1. Evangelism & Discipleship – making new believers through witness, testimony, and life example.
  2. Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5) – demonstrating love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
• Dependent on being connected to Christ (John 15).

Key Questions for Self-Examination

• Am I spiritually barren or fruitful?
• Do my words and actions carry God’s truth (seed)?
• Are there spiritual offspring from my witness?
• Am I multiplying or just consuming blessings?

Important Principles

1. Fruitfulness is God’s Expectation
   • John 15:7–8, 16 – God chose us to bear much fruit.
   • Luke 13:6–9 – The barren fig tree shows God’s expectation of fruit and the Spirit’s role in cultivating us.
   • Fruitlessness = disobedience, not optional.
2. The Church as a Vineyard
   • Each believer = a tree; together = the vineyard.
   • God expects His church (locally and universally) to demonstrate fruitfulness.
   • Must evaluate: Are we showing the fruits of the Spirit? Multiplying disciples? Growing in maturity?

Illustration: Seedless Fruit

• Modern fruit (like seedless grapes) looks good but cannot multiply.
• Likewise, Christians and churches can appear vibrant but fail to carry seed (truth, discipleship, spiritual impact).
• True fruit may look less polished but must be full of seed for future growth.

Closing Challenge

• Mark 4:13 – Understanding the parable of the sower is key to understanding the kingdom.
• Blessings, provision, and joy are meant for multiplication of God’s word, not just personal enjoyment.
• Let’s not settle for looking fruitful but being seedless; instead, let’s ensure our lives and church are carrying God’s seed forward.

Theme: Parenting as God parents us – learning to imitate our heavenly Father.

Pop Quiz Reflection Questions:

1. When the enemy attacks, what is your first action?
2. When was the last time you said out loud, “I resist you, devil”?

Key Scriptures

• Malachi 2:15 – God’s design for marriage includes raising godly children. Spiritually, all believers are called to multiply the kingdom and make disciples.
• Matthew 16:19 – Jesus gives us the keys of the kingdom. What we bind/loose on earth is bound/loosed in heaven.
• James 4:7 – “Resist the devil, and he will flee.” Our responsibility is to actively resist, not passively wait.
• 1 Peter 5:8–9 – Stay alert and resist the enemy; perseverance is required.
• Luke 9:1 / Luke 10:19 – Jesus gives authority to His followers to heal, cast out, and trample the enemy.
• Mark 13:34–37 – Be watchful; authority is given to us as doorkeepers.

Main Teaching Points

• Parental Controls Analogy:
  • Just like devices have parental controls with passwords and boundaries, God has given His children spiritual boundaries and authority.
  • We decide what to allow or not allow into our lives, homes, and minds.
• Keys of the Kingdom:
  • Keys represent authority, access, and responsibility.
  • What we unlock/lock spiritually affects what is allowed in our lives.
• Breaking the Chain:
  • Sinful or destructive actions usually begin with thoughts.
  • We must interrupt the “chain of events” early by resisting wrong thoughts and influences.
• Active Resistance:
  • Resisting is not passive; it’s decisive action (like a parent stepping in when a bully pushes their child).
  • Saying “No” out loud can break the power of intrusive thoughts of fear, worry, or temptation.
• Authority & Responsibility:
  • God has already given believers the authority to resist; He is not waiting to act—we are.
  • We are called to watch, stand firm, and use the authority entrusted to us.
• Practical Application:
  • Resist immediately when thoughts of fear, worry, or sickness arise.
  • Speak God’s Word and confess His promises over your life and household.
  • Guard your mind, household, and children like a spiritual watchman.
  • Encourage one another—stand with others in faith instead of just sympathizing.

Takeaway

God, as our Father, gives us spiritual “parental controls.” He has entrusted us with the authority to resist the enemy, guard what enters our lives, and raise godly children and disciples. Our role is active, not passive: stay alert, resist, and stand firm.

Simple slogan: Just say no—to the devil, to fear, to doubt. Guard the door and use your keys.

Friendship Series – Part 5: Friendship Points Us to the Cross

Theme:

• This final part emphasizes the ultimate purpose of friendship: to point us to the cross and display the gospel.
• Friendship is not just a blessing—it is a witness.

Quick Recap of the Series

1. John 15 – Jesus calls His disciples friends.
2. Friendship with God – Abraham, Moses, and now us through Christ.
3. Jesus as model – He embodies true friendship.
4. Jonathan & David – covenant friendship.
5. Discerning friendships – testing, stewarding, and engaging with maturity.

Today’s Focus: Friendship & the Cross

• Friendship is a major theme across the Bible—woven from Genesis to Revelation.
• Garden of Eden: Adam and Eve experienced perfect companionship with God and each other until sin broke that fellowship.
• Sin’s effect: disobedience fractured friendship—between humanity and God, and between people.
• Gospel’s remedy: through Christ, broken friendships are restored.

Key Scriptures

• John 15:13–15 – Greater love has no one than to lay down his life for friends. Jesus calls us friends.
• Genesis 3:16 – Sin created conflict and broke friendship.
• Ephesians 5:22–25 – Marriage points to the gospel: sacrificial love reflects Christ’s love for the church.
• John 3:16 – God’s love led to Christ’s sacrifice—friendship is at the heart of salvation.
• John 17:3 – Eternal life = knowing God (friendship, not just escaping hell).
• Matthew 7:21–23 – Sobering warning: many will “do works” but miss the essence—knowing God.
• John 13:35 – By our love for one another, the world knows we are Christ’s disciples.

Key Insights

• Friendship is a gospel goal: the cross restores relationship and friendship with God.
• Eternal life is relational: not just avoiding death, but knowing God deeply.
• The Cross = history’s greatest act of friendship: Jesus laid down His life for His friends.
• Communion reminder: not only forgiveness of sins, but also invitation to intimacy and friendship.
• Friendship as witness: True love and sacrificial friendships among believers show the world the gospel.

Practical Takeaways

• Evaluate friendships: Are they pointing to the cross? Are you loving as Christ loved?
• Marriage and close relationships: should reflect sacrificial love, becoming a living testimony of the gospel.
• Friendship = stewardship: treat relationships as resources entrusted by God to use for His glory.
• Every believer can evangelize through friendship: love, loyalty, service, and sacrifice speak louder than words.

Closing Challenge

• Love one another as Christ has loved us.
• Be the kind of friend who points others to Jesus, the truest Friend.
• Remember: the gospel is not just salvation from sin—it is reconciliation into friendship with God and with each other.

Theme:

• Today’s focus is not just on bad friends, but on discerning between good and bad friendships.
• Scripture calls us to steward our relationships wisely as part of our Christian walk.

Today’s Focus

1. Discern friendships
   • Take inventory: Is this friendship healthy, harmful, or in need of attention?
2. Steward friendships
   • Nurture the godly relationships God has entrusted to us.

Key Scriptures

• John 15:12–15 – Jesus calls us friends, shifting the relationship into deeper covenant love.
• James 4:4–6 – Warning about friendship with the world. But note: James also reminds us of grace; we can’t simply cut off all “worldly” relationships in pride.
• Romans 12:1–2 – Don’t conform to the world; be transformed by renewing your mind. Through testing, we learn discernment.
• John 17:14–21 – Jesus prays for us: not to be taken out of the world, but to be sanctified in truth while living in it.
• Mark 2:15–17 – Jesus dines with tax collectors & sinners. He models how to engage relationships with grace and purpose, not isolation.

Key Insights

• Friendship = Spiritual Formation
  • Relationships shape holiness, sanctification, forgiveness, and love.
  • Big biblical commands (“love your neighbor,” “forgive,” “lay down your life”) become real only in relationships.
• Spectrum of Friendships
  • Some friends are unsaved, some are spiritually immature, some are mature.
  • God calls us to engage across the spectrum without conforming to ungodliness.
• Discernment Through Testing
  • Immature believers may need clear boundaries (cutting off bad influences).
  • Mature believers, with renewed minds, can discern through testing and experience.
• Jesus’ Example
  • Didn’t isolate himself to only “safe” friends.
  • Entered into relationships that others criticized, yet influenced people toward God.

Practical Takeaways

• Ask: Is this friendship sharpening me in Christ or pulling me away?
• Remember: cutting everyone off is easier but not biblical. Growth comes through discernment.
• Friendships are not just for our personal benefit—they bear fruit for God’s Kingdom.
• Like Jesus, we are called to engage, love, and influence—not to withdraw in fear.

I’m going to open with a question today and ask a few more in the message:  in your house, does everything you say, go?  Does every command get obeyed?  Why or why not?  

I pray that this series has not only brought light on how to parent your children but also opened your eyes to how the Heavenly Father relates to us as His children.   God seeks those who obey Him.  He selected and blessed Abraham because Abraham believed God and obeyed Him and he trained up his children to do the same.  

Genesis 18:19

19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

In Abraham’s house, was his will being done 100% of the time?  Did Abraham follow God’s will 100% of the time?  

There doesn’t exist someone who has fully done the will of the Father, other than Jesus Christ.  The Scriptures repeat the line in Old and New Testament: “there is none that does good, no not one.”  Because of sin being present in our hearts at birth, people are not inherently good.  We inherently want to do our own thing.  We want my will to be done.  

To summarize the responsibility of the parent: to remove the child’s desire to do their own thing all the time.  It is the same thing that God is working in us to change.  It doesn’t stop.  

Let’s turn to Matthew 6. 

Matthew 6:9-13

9 Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be Your name.

10 Your kingdom come.

Your will be done

On earth as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts,

As we forgive our debtors.

13 And do not lead us into temptation,

But deliver us from the evil one.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

CEV - Come and set up your kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey you, as you are obeyed in heaven.

YLT - Thy reign come: Thy will come to pass, as in heaven also on the earth.

When God gives the command, love your neighbor as you love yourself, His expectation is that it begins to be done, it comes to pass in us.  That is His will.  When He tells us that He hates pride, hates lying, His expectation is that we begin to not lie, not have pride.  That is His will.  Is that being done 100% in every Christian?  Paul had to tell the Ephesian church to put away lying.  Christians were lying, regularly. 

When the Holy Spirit prompts you to take a different route to work today, He expects us to finish that way.  That is His will.  When we start reasoning, “I always go this other way, it is shorter, faster, more convenient.”  If we don’t listen to His voice and go our own way, we can’t excuse ourselves or more importantly, we cannot blame God for anything that might happen by going our own way.  His will was known but not followed.  

Friendship Series – Part 3

Main Text: John 15:12–15

• Jesus calls us friends, not just servants.
• Friendship with Jesus is both a gift and an example for how we should live with one another.

Key Recap from Previous Messages

1. Friendship is a gift from God.
2. We are called friends of God.
3. Jesus is the perfect example of friendship.
   • True friends know and understand each other.
   • They genuinely like each other.
   • They share common interests.
   • They desire to spend time together.
   • They help and protect one another.

Transition to Human Friendships

• God designed us for companionship (Gen. 2:18 – “not good for man to be alone”).
• Friendship runs as a theme throughout the whole Bible—from Genesis to Revelation.
• C.S. Lewis: “Friendship is unnecessary … it gives value to survival.”

Challenges with Friendship

• Many resist friendship due to hurt, fear, or personality defense mechanisms.
• We often default to family ties (“blood is thicker than water”), but Proverbs reminds us:
  • “A friend sticks closer than a brother” (Prov. 18:24).
  • “Better is a neighbor nearby than a brother far away” (Prov. 27:10).
• Real friendship requires vulnerability and effort.

Biblical Example: David & Jonathan (1 & 2 Samuel)

• Unlikely friendship: Jonathan (royal heir, trained warrior) & David (youngest shepherd boy).
• Despite natural rivalry, Jonathan loved David “as his own soul.”
• They formed a covenant, symbolized when Jonathan gave David his robe, armor, and weapons.
• Their friendship endured family conflict, jealousy, and political tension.
• David later honored Jonathan’s son (2 Sam. 9) because of this covenant.

Continuing our series Parenting 101 this morning, let’s build off the previous topic of imitating those who imitate Christ.  If you aren’t sure how to act or what to say, watch someone else who does.  Just as a child imitates their parents, we should both be the proper example for others to imitate by finding examples to mirror.  

In church, imitate those who are imitating God.  Listen to their testimonies and learn their patterns. Find those in the Bible who trusted God in situations and were triumphant, then imitate them.  It takes humility to do something someone else is doing.  Pride wants to do its own thing, it wants the credit.  Humility submits.  

God is a God of order.  In creation, in the church and in our homes, order brings His presence.  Chaos and strife send Him away.  God keeps order in His house.  Like a good parent, He expects His children to listen and obey.  We can find that the vessels who God selected for the Master’s use, were the ones who kept their own house in order.  Don’t think that it is important?  Let’s take a look.  

Abraham

Genesis 18:17-19

17 And the Lord said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do;

18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him?

19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.

God needed someone who would pass down the commands and teachings of the Lord.  He knew that what He promised Abraham would take generations to complete, so if those generations were trained, God’s purpose could continue through them.  What was the defining trait that God was looking for on the earth?  Someone who was faithful to train his children.  

We are friends of God when we believe in Him and obey Him

John 15:12-15
You and I are friends of God even as we serve the Lord. 

When we think about friends or friendship, many phrases come to mind. 
- Birds of a feather flock together. 
- You can tell a lot about a person by who their friends are. 
- Get into trouble and you’ll see who your real friends are. 

Who are your friends and how do you know they are?
They share a common goal or purpose. 

- Being a friend requires time spent together
- Friendship is important because life is a challenge (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

Jesus is our friend, and what wouldn’t you do for your best friend. 
Knowing you are a friend of God, you have confidence that your friend will be there to help you.  

Jesus has connected us back to the Father. When we pray and ask God to give us guidance, we can connect with God because of what Jesus has accomplished. We have access to the Father. 

Hebrews 10:24-25

People like to joke and say “don’t do what I do, do what I say” indicating that they are doing the opposite of what they are telling others to do.  That isn’t God-like. He always does what He says and says what He does.  Jesus fully followed His Father’s Words and actions. 

Paul expected this too because He practiced it very well. He wrote to the church at Corinth, whose people were acting like toddlers, giving into their desires rather than growing up spiritually. What was the instruction to stop that?  Imitate me. 

1 Corinthians 4:16

So I urge you to imitate me.

1 Corinthians 11:1

And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.

Ephesians 5:1

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.

Imitation is the earliest form of learning for anyone.  If you aren’t sure how to act or what to say, watch someone else who does.  Babies do this instinctively which is why Paul says imitate God because you are His children.  In church, imitate those who are imitating God.  Listen to their testimonies and learn their patterns. 

Find those in the Bible who trusted God in impossible situations and were triumphant, then imitate them.  It takes humility to do something someone else is doing.  Pride wants to do its own thing, be unique. Let you be you.  Humility submits.  

In the early days of the church, the disciples acted so much like Jesus that people started calling them by a new name:  Christian – little Christ or follower of Christ.  They were talking, acting and doing the same things that Jesus did.  And people noticed.  

Acts 11:26

When he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. Both of them stayed there with the church for a full year, teaching large crowds of people. (It was at Antioch that the believers were first called Christians.)          

Today is part 3 of the Parenting 101 series, ‘Made in His Image’.  Turn to Genesis 1:27

Genesis 1:27

So God created human beings in his own image.

    In the image of God he created them;

    male and female he created them.

You and I, all humans, were created in the image of God.  We aren’t even just talking about Christians.  Think about that.  The worst sinner is still created in the image of God.  He has a spirit, a soul and a body, a triune being just like the Creator.  He has the capacity to use his words to get things done on the earth, just like God.  

That doesn’t make God his Father.  In fact, every human is born with Satan as their father.  Not my precious baby!  

The sinner isn’t acting like God. The sinner’s words have power, but are being used to bring darkness and death, not the light and life the Words of God bring. This is why Jesus rebuked the religious leaders of the time, and offended them, by telling them they were acting like their father Satan.  They were lying just like Satan, the father of lies.  

No all humans are not all God’s children.  There is a special process for being accepted into the beloved – making Jesus Christ the Lord and master of your life, accepting His sacrifice for your sins and receiving His salvation.  Then you are born – again into another family!  

When we are born again, our spirit becomes a new creature created in the image of God’s Spirit.  We no longer have the blemish of sin that comes with being a natural born human.  Our spirit is now a spotless perfect container that the spotless perfect God can inhabit.  He dwells in us.  Oh what a powerful life we can live when we begin to understand where we stand with our Father.  

As Christians, our number one responsibility is to reproduce ourselves.  Be fruitful and multiply.  Go and make disciples.  

Proverbs 11:30

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, And he who wins souls is wise. 

How To Have Successful Kids

Parents, imaging that you are away on a trip talking to your kids on FaceTime or phone. There are things that you want done around the house before you get home so you give your kids instructions and expect them to carry them out. What you find when you return depends on how well you’ve trained your kids and how well they obey. 
In order for the will of God to be carried out on this earth before He returns, He needs people to carry out His instructions, obey His voice. Multiply the coordination and obedience by billions of “kids” that need to listen, trust and obey. This shows us how important obedience is to God and why He emphasizes it for parents to teach our kids. 
You want successful kids? Teach them to be obedient. This goes against so much of the way of the world which emphasizes “be your own person” and “don’t listen to ‘the man’”. 
Our message today in Parenting 101: How to Have Successful Kids. In light of the dual purpose of the topic, we could also subtitle it “how to be a successful Christian”. 

Ephesians 6:1-3
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
2 Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;
3 That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.” Scriptures say that when we honor God, He will honor us. Here are two ways He will honor you: things go well and you live long. How many want that? How many want that for our kids?

Joshua 1:8
Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.

With increased capacity come increased responsibility. 

Hebrews 5:12-14

“For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
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If we are taking in a lot of “meat” and not doing anything with it, we become spiritually obese.  We aren’t exercising in the things we are in taking. 

Where are we on this spectrum?  
- Do we engage with God just enough to get a measure of Kingdom life
- Or are we trying to out into practice the things we are learning

Our primary engagement with the things of God should be giving, not receiving 

In the beginning there is a lot of people taking care of you, same at the end. They are pouring into you. 

In the middle, you should be growing, transitioning and giving out. 

To get more energy, we need more fuel

Matthew 25:20-21
We all want the reward, but if we must spend the energy that belongs to the responsibility. 

Are we not growing because we aren’t being fed the right food? Or is it that we are not exercising the responsibility we have. 

We are starting a new series today and as usual, I have no idea how many messages it will be.  We will go until the Lord says we are done.  My first reaction when the Lord placed it on my heart was “I am not an expert in this topic.”  Then He started expanding on it and it made more sense.  

As a teacher, specifically a Bible teacher, I attempt to be knowledgeable about anything I teach on of course. There are times when a message comes from lessons I am in the middle of learning myself.  I taught software for almost 20 years and started to become comfortable with the fact that I just needed to know a little bit more than my students at first.  But the more I applied and used the same applications I was teaching, the more I knew to teach.  

The title of our message today, and likely the series, is “Parenting 101”.  As a father for only 6 years next month, I can’t bring a wealth of personal experience of parenting a child from birth to adulthood.  But the subtitle of our message allows us to tie this into not just parenting but our relationship with God as His children:  Growing Up in Christ.  

Psalm 144:12

May our sons flourish in their youth
     like well-nurtured plants.
 May our daughters be like graceful pillars,
     carved to beautify a palace.

Parents, you have the blessing – the empowerment to prosper – to be fruitful and multiply!  Yes, this means reproduction – having kids.  But it also includes the multiplying of your values, wisdom and experience into your kids.  You are empowered physically, mentally and spiritually to multiply have fruit in your children.  

How do I practically take the things weighing me down and cast them to the Lord?

Energy is the capacity to do work
Work is ability to apply a force that causes movement of an object

Christian energy = our ability to do the work of the Kingdom

Matthew 11:28-30
To accomplish work, you need:
capacity and knowledge 

Matthew 7:13-14
Let’s get rid of the baggage so we can fit on the narrow way. 

Practical steps
1. Identify what is going to be opposing your work
2. Disassociate with the burden 
3. Get whatever it is that is opposing you, away from you

How many want to be used by God?  How many of you parents want your children to fulfill the purpose God has for them?  The obvious answer to these questions has a not so obvious process for getting results.  God has work that needs to be done on this earth, work that requires people to carry out the effort.  But who gets to do that work depends not so much on God, but on the people.   

2 Timothy 2:19-21

But God’s solid foundation stands firm. Here is the message written on it. “The Lord knows who his own people are.” Also, “All who say they believe in the Lord must turn away from evil.”

20 In a large house there are things made out of gold and silver. But there are also things made out of wood and clay. Some have special purposes. Others have common purposes. 21 Suppose someone stays away from what is common. Then the Master will be able to use them for special purposes. They will be made holy. They will be ready to do any good work.

Religion interprets these verses as God pre-planned who is made of gold and who is made of clay so there’s not much we can do but play with the cards we are dealt.  Yes, God has always made a distinction between His people and the world.  The Law’s main purpose was to give instructions for a way of life that was very different from the people in surrounding nations.  By following the Law, Israel acted differently, ate differently and consequently, were treated differently by God. That is how the Kingdom of God works – a different king means different rules.  

Leviticus 20

7 Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God.

8 And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the Lord which sanctify you.

Notice though that you and I have a responsibility too.  YOU sanctify yourselves and be holy.  

Sanctify = purify, dedicate, separate, consecrate

The word sanctuary means a place set aside or dedicated for specific use.  The building itself isn’t holy, it’s use makes it holy or not.  Be holy means to be pure from influence.  Be holy means not doing the same things the world is doing.  

Today we finish our series The Journey of Faith with our eighth part.  

This weekend is Memorial Weekend which honors those who died serving our country.  We used the word served because a soldier doesn’t do what he wants to do, he does what he is told to do.  In the military, there are consequences for doing your own thing – not just for the one who does the action but for those around who might suffer because one person didn’t listen or went into self-preservation mode.  

The heroes are the ones we see carrying another when they are down or wounded.  Pushing through the fear and danger to protect and save others.  Looking out for the good of the many rather than trying to save self.   

One of the many ways we tend to get behind or feel like we are the wounded one in life is by the cares of this life. In Mark 4:18-19 Jesus said that there is something that can prevent the Word of God from producing fruit in your life:  

The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, 19 but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced.

The Word of God is powerful and can overcome evil.  We, however, control the door of our heart – what we let in.  When worries and cares enter the door, they crowd out the Word from coming in.  This is when the journey of faith gets bogged down.  How many have taken road trips and the GPS has given you the estimated time of arrival but then you run into construction or an accident—backing up traffic for miles, slowing you down, delaying your arrival.  This is what worrying does for our faith journey.  It slows us down, preventing progress.  

There is a solution that takes discipline to see it through.  

1.     Give the Lord your cares and worries

2.     Help others with their burdens

In past messages on this journey, we’ve talked about obedience and humility, two elements required to get us to our journey’s destination. Humility, as we heard on our Wednesday night Bible Study, is seeing yourself as God sees you – an honest evaluation of yourself. This includes the honest assessment of the cares you are carrying.  

Jesus was humble and honest and yet called Himself what he was: the Son of God.  He’s given us the command to be like him.

Ephesians 4:29 ESV

1. It begins with an honest Biblical assessment of where we are, of who God is and what He has done
2. Leads to an attitude adjustment
3. It should build in us a resolve to be steadfast in our hope

Point 1
Psalm 103:1-5
David was continually telling himself to bless the Lord.  

Psalm 42:1-11

Point 2
1 Samuel 30:6
It is only possible to encourage yourself when you know there is some anchor to place that encouragement into.

Psalm 116:7

Point 3
The ups and downs continue but my response begins to stabilize

Ps 146:1-2 ESV
“Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul! I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.”
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This morning we celebrate our moms in the house and the moms that raised us.  I’m very thankful for my mom who, right after she had me and then my sister, realized she didn’t know how to raise two kids as a twenty-four-year-old.  She needed help. She needed God…and found Him.  

From a child, my sisters and I heard Bible faith teaching on the radio every morning.  Mom’s journey of faith, from a devout Catholic with a heart for God to a born-again Spirit-filled believer dedicated to following God and His Word, brought my sisters and I along in it.  

The journey of faith for all of us, can’t be done alone.  It will feel like you are alone sometimes because walking with God and obeying His will goes against the mainstream.  Elijah thought he was alone when 450 prophets of Baal showed up to his challenge and he was the only representative of God’s side.  He “won”…God won but Elijah left, went to a cave and said Lord take me now, I’m alone.  God’s answer?  You are not alone, there are 7,000 others who have not worshipped Baal.  Go, here are your next steps.  

Scriptures are full of encouragement for us that we are not alone; and we have commands to be the one who comes alongside others.  

Amos 3:3

NKJV Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?

NLV Do two men walk together unless they have made an agreement?

NLT Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?

Moms and Dads, we can apply this to us in all three context:  parents must be walking in agreement about rearing the kids, discipline, church, Bible doctrine, etc.  We can’t be living our lives going in two different directions and expect our kids to find their path. We are the stewards of their journey of faith.  

Proverbs 22:6

Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Ephesians 6:4

And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

Look at Proverbs 31.  You might think you know where I’m going when you hear that chapter, but you don’t. Yes, these verses describe the Godly, woman and mother who cares for her husband and household, is successful in life and business.  Look at verse 1

Proverbs 31:1

The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him:

It was the king’s mother who taught him about what kind of woman to look for.   His mother described the godly wife that he should find.  Moms, you are key in directing the path of your children’s journey of faith.  You walk the path yourself, literally carrying them at first.  Then when they are old enough to start walking on their own, spiritually, you walk alongside them to show the way and keep them on the path.  When Louisa first started walking and we’d be on a sidewalk together, she’d go all over the place distracted by everything.  Even though the sidewalk was clear and straight, her feet weren’t following it. 

Christians do the exact same thing.  God has a clear and straight path for us, but when we are spiritually immature, we get distracted by too much and wander all over.  This is where faith buddies come in.  Moms and dads, we are each other’s faith buddy.  Guys, help your brother.  Ladies, help your sisters.  Be the one that sees the wandering of someone else and goes to walk with them to support, uphold and guide. 

Luke 15:1-7, 10
The passage starts out setting the scene. Large crowds had seen His miracles and are now coming to hear Him.

The Pharisees see no value in the people that came to hear Jesus.

In this passage there are 3 types of people:
1. True disciples
2. Self righteous
3. Sinners

We’ve all played all three roles in our lives. Jesus is telling teach role about themselves in the different parables.

1. When you are the sheep or coin, you appreciate the fact that God spared no expense to save you. To what extent are we taking the same attitude
2. Sometimes we are the 99. We have to watch our attitude when the focus is on the one.
3. We are called to rejoice over the one.

Parable of the Sheep - life happens, wanders off.  the owner leaves the 99 to go find the one
Parable of the Coin - you lost it.  The one who lost it searched until found
Parable of the Prodigal Son - purposely wanders off and gets lost, the father didn’t pursue

How much time are you spending rejoicing with those who are rejoicing?

Part six of our Journey of Faith series today is going to have a familiar sound to it:  Willing and obedient.  When each of us hear a message from the Lord on Sundays or Wednesdays, we should take it personally – meaning what is the Lord speaking to me right now?  And just as importantly, let me receive this word because there is a reason He is speaking this to me right now.  

God’s Word, especially from your trusted leaders, isn’t a “topic of the week”, or like a TV series episode.  No, it is the instruction for the season.  It is a word of warning or direction for what God knows you and I will face now or in the near future.  As we talked about Wednesday night, God will make a way of escape for you from every temptation and test – His taught Word is a major part of that way.  Listen. 

How many of us want the blessing of the Lord on our lives?  I might as well as Jordon if he wants the fruit from his garden, or asking you if you want the paycheck for doing the work.  Obviously yes.  Human nature looks for the outcome – what is in this for me.  But the flesh, the sinful nature of humankind, only wants to do the bare minimum to get any gain.  

I need to lose weight and get more physically fit.  I have to workout how much? Stop eating what?  Is there a pill I can take and keep living my life the way I want to?  

There is no pill in the kingdom of God.  There is obedience.  No obedience pain, no Godly gain.  

Matt 28:16-17

“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭16‬-‭17‬ ‭NKJV‬‬


Why we doubt: arrogance and pride
Ask yourself: is Christ greater than all I can see? Yes!

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty;”
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭27‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

John 20:11-18
To be known by God solidifies in our spirits that He lives

Luke 24:13-35
Revealed Himself as a resurrected Lord by opening the Scriptures and expounding them

Open up the scripture. Read it. 

“Then He said to Thomas, “Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing.” And Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!””
‭‭John‬ ‭20‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Matthew 28:11-15

Today is Palm Sunday, the start of what is called passion week.  Does anyone know why we call it passion week?  I too had to look it up.  The English word passion comes from the Latin word passio which means “to endure suffering”. So this is celebration of Christ’s week of enduring suffering for us. He, like us had His journey of faith that took Him down a very specific pathway.  It wasn’t easy.  It was very narrow.  So narrow that no other person has ever walk that exact path.  He did it because He fully trusted His Father. And He did it for us.  

When you plan a trip with your family, which vehicle do you take?  For most of us, probably the biggest one to pack in the stuff, but also the most reliable one. Right?  We’ve gotten to the point with two cars over 10 years old to rent a vehicle for longer trips so we can save the wear on our cars and have a vehicle we can fully trust.  

God is looking for those who He can put His trust in, those who won’t slip when times get rough, those He can depend on to finish the task.  We teach on faith regularly here at Faith Alive Church and here is a key element of our faith: for God to have faith is us, we have to have faith in Him.  

Let’s dissect that statement to fully understand it.  when we have faith in God, we are saying that we trust Him.  I trust that what He has said will happen.  I trust that He is true to His Word.  Here is the real key though: when we trust, we obey.  When you fully trust, you fully obey.  When you don’t trust, you don’t obey.  So the truest indicator of faith isn’t your answered prayer record, it is how much you obey.  

“Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, 200 chiefs, and all their kinsmen under their command.”
‭‭1 Chronicles‬ ‭12‬:‭32‬ ‭ESV‬‬

We have a fixed period called time. One of the greatest gifts we can have is to understand the time to make the most use of it. 

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:”
‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭ESV‬‬

To understand the times means to understand:
1. What has happened before - can you look back and recognize when God moved in your life.  Can you discern what His purpose was in those situations. 
2. What is happening now 
3. What may happen next

Understanding is composed of awareness or recognition. We pray for an advanced skill of discernment. 

Four areas of understanding the times
1. Biblically and spiritually - Rom 3:21-22
2. Personally - 1 Sam 30:8 do you understand how to shift and realign your personal resources to maximize the output for the season
3. Leadership - Joshua 1:1-3 one of the greatest responsibilities we have as leaders is understanding seasons. What and who has God placed under your leadership?
4. Culturally - the climate we are acting in as believers - Matt 22:21 - culture is the climate that we carry out God’s strategies 

Growing up, how many of you had moms or dads that warned you not to go with the crowd or do what everyone else is doing just because everyone else is doing it?  I did. Peer pressure starts in early childhood as kids develop their sense of individuality.  It is easy to go with the crowd even when what they are doing is obviously wrong.  We’ve all observed a group of kids start to take a path of disruption and disorganization simply because a few started to.  

Unfortunately, we don’t just grow out of this behavior.  It has to be trained out and mature adults have to develop good judgment to make the right decision even when others are not.  

Matthew 7:13-14 KJV

13 Enter ye in at the strait [or narrow] gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. 

The words here in the original language describe the Kingdom path as a narrow, closely confined pathway—one that would require deliberate steps, careful navigation and decision making.  The word for narrow is also translated pressed.   

Where are we going with this?  Throughout scripture, the imagery of the straight path means being on the right path and the crooked path is wrong way. 

The song we just played reminded me of a truth, the spiritual truth that I want to talk about today: Kingdom expectations.  And so we're going to be in a couple of different scriptures if you want to go ahead and pull these up or write them down: Hebrews 11:1 - a very familiar one, and Romans 15:13. 

When you have expectation for something, there is action around getting ready for it. 

Hope is connected to faith. 
Hebrews 11:1

The God of hope
Romans 15:13

What is hope?
Bible hope = expectation 

1 Peter 1:3-5

Expectation = I’m going to construct my reality on the basis that this is true

Philippians 1:19-21

Three things to think about
1. Our expectations are based on real truth, Gods truth
2. Our expectations are backed by a limitless God
3. Our ultimate expectation is set in eternity 

Psalm 25:3

Don’t lose hope, hope is the foundation of your faith. 

We are back on our road learning about the Journey of Faith.  It isn’t a journey unless we start and our journey of faith begins with believing the good news of salvation.  Step after step in our journey is only progressed by believing the Word and acting on it by faith, keeping our conscience clear, and our obedience on the ready. That takes work. And it is a constant improvement or growth of your faith.  We go from faith to faith, glory to glory.  

Hebrews 4:11 - Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. 

For most of us, that initial journey of faith to salvation didn’t take too long.  Once you believed, the action of calling on the name of the Lord brought you to the destination of salvation. Eternal life is yours, Jesus has wiped your sins away and it didn’t even take but a few minutes.  Wow, this life of faith is easy!

Much like the children of Israel though, leaving Egypt in one day—an example of our salvation—wasn’t the end of their journey. Specifically, it wasn’t their final destination.  Salvation isn’t the end of the Christian walk.  For too many it is though – don’t let that be you, don’t let that be your kids.  Jesus commanded us to go and “get people saved so they’ll go to heaven”. No. He said, go and make disciples—go and lead people on their own journey of faith.  That means we have to be at least slightly ahead on our own journey.  

The labor of entering into the rest God has for us is in the journey.  This is a marathon, a long distance drive, post-graduate education.  There is a reward at the end—not just heaven. The journey of faith brings the end result of our prayer, our petitions. The Lord says He’s given us all things to enjoy.  He wants you saved, your needs and desires met, your health strong, your children saved and protected.  

Galatians 6:9 - So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. 

Our part? Don’t give up.  Keep the faith.  

The Lord delights in smells.  Today we explore the biblical significance of scents and aromas, highlighting their role as offerings and indicators of sin and emphasizing the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of spirituality.
 

We are on a journey of faith – both in our Christian walk and in our current series.  The start of our journey must be salvation.  We believed the word to be born again.  We had to pray and ask Jesus to come and save us.  We had to call on Him.  That was the first act of obedience by faith and it sealed the deal for our salvation. 

The rest of our journey works the same way: we hear, believe, then act.  Our first act of obedience is calling on the name of the Lord in response to hearing the good news of what happens when we do.  In this part two of our series, let’s focus on what can hinder our journey: unbelief.  How can a born-again Christian experience unbelief?  Let’s find out.

Israel was “saved”.  Their coming out of Egypt is a type of us coming out of the world into God’s Kingdom – salvation.  They saw with their own eyes the repeated miracles of God, yet they struggled over and over with believing God and obeying Him. It got to the point that their hearts became hard toward God.

Our journey of faith begins with believing the good news of salvation.  Step after step in our journey is only progressed by believing the Word and acting on it by faith, keeping your conscience clear, and your obedience on the ready. That takes work.  It is labor, it is a fight—the good fight. And it is a constant improvement or growth of your faith.  We go from faith to faith, glory to glory.  

God’s grace is sufficient for all needs, as demonstrated by the provision of daily bread and the example of the Israelites in the desert.  The Apostle Paul’s conversation with God highlights that God’s grace is enough, even in weakness, and should be received with faith.  Operating in the kingdom means relying on God’s grace, not our own merits or abilities.

God’s grace, unmerited favor, is sufficient for salvation and all aspects of life.  The Apostle Paul, facing a persistent “thorn in the flesh,” prayed for its removal, but God responded, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”  Paul, like us, must trust in God’s grace, believing it is enough to carry us through life’s challenges, even when we feel weak or uncomfortable.

God’s grace is sufficient for all situations, even those where our strength is tested. Paul, in 2 Corinthians 12:9, learned to embrace his weaknesses, recognizing that God’s power is made perfect in them. We should anchor our faith in God’s grace, knowing it is enough for every day and every challenge.

We talk about faith very often at FAITH Alive Church.  It is much more than a favorite subject.  It is the mission of this church to keep faith alive in us.  Understanding what faith is and how it works is vital to our success as Christians.  God works by faith and has giving us a measure, a portion, of His own faith.  

Today, we start a new series called “The Journey of Faith”.  Living by faith, a command in Scriptures, doesn’t come overnight.  For some believers, it never happens. Living by faith doesn’t come automatically.  It takes the right actions to work.  

Think about when you received salvation, when you were born again.  Did you wake up one day and suddenly decide to get saved?  No! It was a process, maybe long for some and shorter for others, that required certain ingredients to mix together to get the right outcome. 

Let’s look at what the Word says about the salvation process.

The idea of “daily bread” emphasizes the importance of a consistent relationship with God and seeking His provision daily.  This is illustrated through the story of the Israelites in the desert, who complained about their provision despite God’s previous miracles.  The Israelites’ experience mirrors human nature, where we often forget God’s blessings when faced with discomfort or challenges.

God provided manna daily to test the Israelites’ faith and obedience, highlighting the importance of daily reliance on Him.  Similarly, our daily struggles and responsibilities can be seen as God’s miracles, testing our trust and prompting us to seek His guidance.  Ultimately, God’s glory and provision are revealed through our daily engagement with Him.

What does it mean practically to fear the Lord? 

Jesus said “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”  (John 14:15) There’s the definition of loving God.  You cannot love God and consistently disobey or ignore His commands.  

When we refuse to obey, we become an enemy of God. James 4:4 says that if we are friends with the world what they do, we become the enemy of God.  

God won’t force us to obey, we have a choice in the matter.  But oh the rewards of making the right choice!  This is where we bring our topic of angels back in.  Angels fear the Lord.  Angels obey His commands completely.  And God will send His angels to help those of us who do the same.  

There are times though that as a parent or a family member, we have to get someone’s attention, so with intention we tell them to listen!  That is how I feel about this word today.  The Lord says, stop, listen, this is important!  It will determine the year for you.  

When the prophets spoke a Word from the Lord, there was always a condition: if you do this then this will happen. Unfortunately, sometimes the condition was a past event:  if you would have done this then this next thing would not have to happen.  

Jesus gave a command to his disciples in John 14:1.  

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me.

With the command comes the power to obey it. The Lord doesn’t tell us to do something we cannot do.  So as we hear this today, hear it with the weight that it has.  Hear it for yourself and hear it with the intent to obey.  

Throughout the Old Testament, the Spirit of the Lord uses prophets to bring words to real kings of this world while using the same words to speak to the powers of the spiritual world.  In that sense, we can use the image of a king or general in battle conquering cities and lands.  In fact, much of what we know about our enemy and his origins comes from these prophetic passages.  

Satan is real, he has a name and thus has a purpose.  God created him with one purpose and Satan chose to follow his own purpose.  For us to know our enemy, we’ll start with his origin story.  To do that we need to look at one type of angel mentioned throughout the Bible. This isn’t an angel that appeared to people as a messenger, it has a different purpose.  

Luke 1:11-13, 18-19

Compare this experience with that of Mary a few verses down.

Luke 1:26-37

There are only two angels in Scripture whose name we know.  Gabriel here is one.  Does anyone know the other?  Michael.  Both Gabriel and Michael have specific purposes: Gabriel gives extremely high priority messages.  Michael is one of the lead or arch angels who leads battles against darkness.  Each of the three books Michael is mentioned, he is fighting evil forces.  

Gabriel is mentioned in two books, Daniel and Luke.  In Daniel he is bringing the message of the timeline for the end of times.  In Luke, he brings the message of John and the Messiah.  These are arguably three of the most anticipated messages from the Lord and Gabriel was the sole angel to deliver them.   He has a purpose.  

Michael has a purpose. 

Notice when Gabriel came to both Zechariah, Mary and Joseph, which we Jordon spoke about last week, Gabriel’s message from the Lord included the action to give the child a specific name.  With John, his name means God is gracious.  When Gabriel spoke to Mary and Joseph, he said to name the baby Jesus, God Saves.  

What is in a name?  Everything.