As your group time begins, use this section to help get the conversation going.
|
|
- Cornelius Bryan
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 HOW TO STAND FIRM IN THE FACE OF TRIALS James 1:5-12 GETTING STARTED As your group time begins, use this section to help get the conversation going. What is the last major lesson you learned in life? What types of life experiences do you feel you learn the most from? Why? God uses our experiences in life to mold and shape us. Yet most people will admit that the harder circumstances in life end up teaching and stretching us the most. Just as a goldsmith must heat the precious metal to extreme temperatures to skim all impurity off the surface, the trials we experience in our lives help us focus on what really matters. Trials help us look beneath the surface into our hearts. Through trials, we discover a wisdom and a hope that we might have never found otherwise. DISCUSSION > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JAMES 1:5. Why do trials in our lives increase our dependency upon God? What do we need and receive from God in trials that we may be hesitant to ask for without the presence of hardship? What encouragement can we find in the Scriptures when we are going through trials and are unsure of God s purpose? Think of specific Scriptures or examples. Who else wrestled with similar issues? Trials put us in a place where we have nowhere to look but up. In the middle of struggle, we are able to feel our own weakness in a way that we could have never felt it before. The grace that comes to us in those moments is that our focus is narrowed to God. Trials make us appeal to God because we don t feel like we can look anywhere else. Characters of Scripture like David, Job, Habakkuk, Jeremiah, Paul, and others also experienced trials that they did not fully understand from their limited perspectives. But these hardships caused them to cry to the One with unlimited perspective. FEBRUARY 11-12, 2017 / WEEK 3 1
2 What did James tell the church to do if they lacked wisdom? Essentially, what is James telling us to do? What is it about the nature of God that makes Him worthy of appeal in the middle of confusion and trials? James told the church in the first century (and the church today) to appeal to God when trials come. We can ask Him for what we need and appeal for His help. The examples listed earlier show us that we should feel comfortable asking God why we are going through trials. But why do we ask God about our suffering? Have you ever thought about that? When you talk to a friend about something that is troubling you, you do it because you feel that they have some wisdom or understanding to lend you. They have a perspective that is different than yours. We ask God because His wisdom is unlimited, and His understanding is unsearchable. God s perspective is the only one we need. True wisdom is found only in God. What are some lesser sources of wisdom that you look to before you look to God? Why do we often look to these places first? > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JAMES 1:6-11. Have you ever gone through a period of time when you didn t pray to God much at all? What lies do we believe when we live this way? What is going on in your heart and mind when you aren t praying? How do trials have a way of breaking habits of prayerlessness? Read Luke 8: How did the disciples respond to this crisis? How similar is our response to that of the Twelve Disciples? Why did Jesus allow this to happen to them? What was He trying to teach them? What lesson is there for us in our trials? What have you learned about God from a trial that you would not have learned any other way? When life is going well, it is easy to fool yourself into thinking that you don t need God. Why would you? Everything is fine! When we think about God this way (consciously or unconsciously), we reduce His power and Lordship to a small corner of our lives. We are more like the disciples than we realize. We flock to Jesus when the pressure is on. To be clear, this is where we should turn in trials, but Jesus also told them their faith should ve carried them through the storm. The faith we have in Jesus is sharpened and developed through trials as we learn that He is enough to supply our needs when we are at our neediest. FEBRUARY 11-12, 2017 / WEEK 3 2
3 > HAVE A VOLUNTEER READ JAMES 1:12. Look at Matthew 7: How do our trials have a way of revealing our foundation? What have your trials revealed about your foundation? What hope exists for the follower of Jesus, no matter the outcome of the trial? Why is this alone reason enough to trust Jesus? Trials are helpful in making us more like Jesus because they show what our life is built on. They also give us a chance to turn to Jesus if a trial shows us that our life wasn t build on Him. No matter the final outcome of a trial for a follower of Jesus, we win. Either we make it through with a stronger and more vibrant faith in Jesus, or we inherit a crown of life from Jesus Himself. Both are a reward and grace of God to us. APPLICATION Help your group identify how the truths from the Scripture passage apply directly to their lives. How do we get ourselves to the place where we look for wisdom from God all the time and not just in the middle of a trial? What role do members of this LifeGroup have in pointing one another to God s wisdom? Do you feel the freedom within the group to give and receive this wisdom? When the people around you who do not know Jesus experience trials, they have nowhere certain to look. How might you be able to step into a situation like this and point them back to Jesus? Can you think of any specific opportunities at this time? PRAYER Praise God for using our trials to point us back to Him and the wisdom and strength that is only available in Him. Thank Him for His abundant goodness and grace. Ask Him to help you trust Him at all times in good, bad, and everywhere in between. FEBRUARY 11-12, 2017 / WEEK 3 3
4 COMMENTARY JAMES 1:5-12 1:5-8. These verses outline our resources for facing trials and explain how to get them. Christians need wisdom and faith as they encounter trials. We are encouraged to pray for wisdom and to pray with faith. Jewish Christians should understand wisdom. To James and to Jews, wisdom was much more than knowledge and intelligence. Judaism emphasized that the fear of the Lord was the starting point of wisdom (Prov. 1:7). Wisdom was a spiritual trait which developed from a wholehearted love for God s ways. James will later contrast divine wisdom with earthly wisdom (3:13-18). Earthly wisdom is unspiritual and demonic. Divine wisdom is pure;... peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere (Jas. 3:17). With wisdom Christians can understand how their trials merged into God s plan for their lives. They have the commitment to his will necessary to assure that they follow God and not wander from the path of his plan. But how do Christians get this wisdom? They must ask God for it. Four facts about God encourage us to ask for this wisdom. First, God is a giving God. Giving to those who ask from him is natural for God. Second, God gives generously to all. He has no favorite recipients of his gifts, but gives to all classes, races, and types of people. Third, God gave without finding fault. God does not give in such a way as to humiliate us. He does not chastise us for our failures or hold our unworthiness against us. He is always ready to add new blessings to old ones without finding fault in us for our many shortcomings. Finally, God promises to answer those who come seeking wisdom. A request according to his will receives his answer (1 John 5:14-15). Such wisdom helps us understand how our troubles fit in with God s plan. It assures us that God has not forsaken us. God s gift of wisdom allows us to understand how God is involved in life s daily events. Instead of serving as a hindrance, trials present a marvelous opportunity to become wise! Verses 6-7 deal with the need for faith in prayer. Whoever asks God for wisdom must believe and not doubt. Faith is a complete commitment to God in trusting obedience. Two reasons to encourage faith are presented. First, a doubting person is spiritually unstable like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Our prayers for wisdom must not alternate between faith and unbelief. We must endure in the confidence that God will answer our request according to his will. Second, doubters should not even imagine that God will answer their prayers. Faith alone opens the door to God s limitless treasury of wisdom. Unbelief receives God s rejection slip which reads, Request denied due to insufficient faith. Let us be careful not to make light of our hesitant faith. Doubting God is serious business! Such doubt implies we have a low view of God. To receive answers from God, you must come to him with the conviction that he gives rewards to those who diligently seek him (Heb. 11:6). Diligence is a trait we all need desperately. Verse 8 provides an additional description of the spiritual makeup of a doubter. The doubter is a doubleminded man, unstable in all he does. Doubters display no stamina in their commitment to the Lord. One moment they are inclined to obedience; another moment, they follow their own ways. Failure to endure with faith in prayer is an indicator of the doubter s general character. 1:9-11. These verses give examples of trials for two different groups of people and call for both groups to show a right estimate of their trials. Poor people must not lament their poverty, but must rejoice at God s bounty in their lives. The rich people must not delight in their wealth, but must find joy in the humility which trials produce in their lives. James wanted poor people to find delight in their spiritual position in God s kingdom and avoid the temptation to murmur about their material distress. The brother in humble circumstances is a Christian who lives in poverty. Depression, resentment, and selfish ambition may easily characterize their lives. FEBRUARY 11-12, 2017 / WEEK 3 4
5 Instead, they should glory in the prominent position to which God has elevated them as believers. Paul suggested that God has given the Holy Spirit as a down payment on all the good things he will do for believers throughout eternity (Eph. 1:14). Poor believers are to rejoice that they are fellow citizens with God s people and members of God s household (Eph. 2:19). Verses focus on wealthy people. The rich person faces the temptation of glorying in wealth. In one sense the possession of wealth is a trial because it tempts rich people to rejoice in earthly treasures (Matt. 6:19-21). The wealthy are encouraged to glory in the humbling of soul which life s trials can bring them. They can learn that worldly riches pass away, while God s wisdom lasts for eternity. Wealthy people should exult in the privilege of learning that true treasures are located only in heaven. Since the possession of money often gives wealthy people a false sense of security, an illustration from nature demonstrates the brevity and uncertainty of life. The pageantry of wealth resembles the blooming of a wild plant which fades in the hot sun soon after it displays its beauty. Isaiah 40:6-7 uses a similar image to show that life is brief and uncertain. These verses warn that in the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business. Rich people must recognize that the possession of wealth provides a challenge to overcome (cf. 1 Tim. 6:9). Possessing wealth without spiritual wisdom eventually brings only emptiness. Like the poor, the rich should revel in the spiritual privileges which the Lord has opened for them. These verses also warn against the tendencies of both poverty and wealth. Poverty brings no joy, so many people feel that wealth provides joy. In reality the poor must find joy in their spiritual privileges despite their penury. The wealthy must avoid delighting in wealth, glorying instead in the spiritual privileges God makes available. James would doubtless have followed Paul in urging his wealthy listeners to be rich in good deeds (1 Tim. 6:18). 1:12. A double result is promised those who faithfully endure their trials. First is an inner reward of blessedness. Blessed is the same term which appears repeatedly in the Beatitudes (Matt. 5:3-12). It describes an inner quality of joy resting in God and unaffected by external events. It is not a wish or statement of fact but a joyous affirmation: O the blessedness of the person who endures trials. In the New Testament it often describes people whom the world would never regard as blessed or fortunate in any sense such as the persecuted (Matt. 5:11-12). Having the trial is not a blessing in itself, but the stalwart endurance of the trial brought blessing. The second blessing is a gift from God, the crown of life. Crown did not refer to the ornament of a ruler but to a garland wreath given to the victor in an athletic contest. God s reward to us for faithfully enduring trials is not a position of royalty over others. Rather, it is recognition from God for spiritual victory. The crown is not a physical object but a spiritual privilege which gives a deeper, fuller life on earth (John 10:10) and an unending, joyous life in the world to come. Enduring trials for his glory shows that we love God. God has stored up marvelous blessings for those who love him. Four features in this section provide encouragement for people caught up in trials. First, God uses trials to produce staying power in those who endure. Second, for those who seek it, God provides wisdom to understand trials. Third, believers, whether rich or poor, find encouragement to rejoice over their position in life. Fourth, God promises a reward to fill the believer with hope. FEBRUARY 11-12, 2017 / WEEK 3 5
DOUBLE MINDED = DOUBLE TROUBLED. February 24, 2019
DOUBLE MINDED = DOUBLE TROUBLED February 24, 2019 DOUBLE MINDED = Trying To Live On Two Levels At The Same Time -- It Will Lead To A Fall! (James 1:5-8 NIV) If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God,
More informationCount It All Joy James 1:4-12
Count It All Joy James 1:4-12 Introduction - Unnamed example. - The structure of James. Difficult to pinpoint main themes. - Erroneous view of Christian trials. Verse 12 does not mean that God is watching
More informationPM. James. Pt. 1: Hard But Humble Work James 1:1-12
3-8-15 PM James Pt. 1: Hard But Humble Work James 1:1-12 David Bragg Is a former minister from Cape Girardeau, MO. He contract Multiple Sclerosis He wrote the book Pure Religion James 1:27 Pure and undefiled
More informationBe Thou Faithful Unto Death
1 Introduction. Be Thou Faithful Unto Death A. Christ gave the church in Smyrna a very important command in Revelation 2:10. Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw
More informationHebrews 3:1-6 (NIV) Matthew 7:24-29
Power Hour Lesson Summary for October 9, 2016 Builder of the House Lesson Text: Hebrews 3:1-6; Matthew 7:24-29 Background Scripture: Hebrews 3:1-6; Matthew 7:19-29 Devotional Reading: Hebrews 10:19-25
More informationSERVANT VS. SELFISH PHILIPPIANS 2:1-4
SERVANT VS. SELFISH PHILIPPIANS 2:1-4 PHILIPPIANS 2:1-4 1 If then there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, PHILIPPIANS
More informationSecond Baptist Church of Doylestown. Bible Study Notes: Book of James 1 /25/1 7. James Chapter 1
Trials & Temptations Verses 1-8 Second Baptist Church of Doylestown Bible Study Notes: Book of James 1 /25/1 7 James Chapter 1 1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes
More informationSermon : Wind-tossed and Unstable Page 1
Sermon : Wind-tossed and Unstable Page 1 Wind-tossed and Unstable Text : James 1: 1-8 ; Matthew 14: 22-33 S#1. A. We have been taking some lessons from the Epistle of James. S#2. 1. We observed that the
More informationLesson 1: The Testing of Your Faith (1:1-18)
Lesson 1: The Testing of Your Faith (1:1-18) Introduction James begins his letter by first addressing the situation of his readers. These early Christians are apparently suffering, both economically and
More informationStaying Strong. James 1:1-18
Staying Strong James 1:1-18 Introducing James Question 1 James is located in the Old Testament or New Testament? Answer New Testament Introducing James Question 2 James is the what numbered book of the
More informationScripture Worksheets
James Chapter 1 Chapter 1 1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings. 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials
More informationwill guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
1 Basic Essentials for Believers In an old Mennonite church in Iowa these words are etched into the pulpit, Stand up, speak truth, sit down. Last week we began with the Basic Essentials for Believers.
More informationExplore the Bible Lesson Preview July 19, 2009 "When Common Sense Isn't Enough" Background: James 1:1-18 Lesson: James 1:2-18
Explore the Bible Lesson Preview July 19, 2009 "When Common Sense Isn't Enough" Background: James 1:1-18 Lesson: James 1:2-18 Motivation: James' epistle is organized around a series of sermons with many
More informationWEEK 7 LEADER S GUIDE A Wealth of Contentment 1 Timothy 6:6-19
WEEK 7 LEADER S GUIDE A Wealth of Contentment 1 Timothy 6:6-19 Main Point Contentment is a choice to find value in Jesus rather than possessions. Introduction As your group time begins, use this section
More informationIN VERSE 14, ~ PAUL WRITES, ~ FOR THIS REASON I BOW MY KNEES BEFORE THE Father.
PAUL S PRAYER FOR BELIEVERS, PT. 1; EPH. 3:14-17 (Ed O Leary) INTRODUCTION. NOW FINISHED.... ~ AND TODAY, ~ WE BEGIN THE NEXT SECTION OF EPH., ~ 3:14-21. As noted, ~ in 3:1, ~ Paul began to pray for the
More informationIntroduction. The Christian s Joy. Depth of The Christian s Joy. Joy In Our Salvation. Joy In Our Salvation. Joy In Our Salvation
Introduction The Christian s Joy What makes the Christian s joy different from the joy that is promoted by the world? Source of worldly joy is satisfying earthly desires Expression of worldly joy is superficial
More informationSeek God's Wisdom. Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105
2 Seek God's Wisdom Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105 Any time you face a decision, you will almost always be able to find conflicting advice. One friend might tell you
More informationputting faith to work
putting faith to work Here are the songs we sang this Sunday. This shows the song name, the artist who performed the song, and the cd that contains the song How Firm a Foundation HYMN Whom Shall I Fear
More informationSESSION 1 THE PRESSURE OF TRIALS. The Point Joyful trust in God will see you through all trials.
SESSION 1 THE PRESSURE The Point The Bible Meets Life No one lives a problem-free life. You have surely heard the phrase, When life gives you a lemon, just make lemonade. But that s a whole lot easier
More informationBankrupt Keys of the Kingdom: Godly Character for a Godless World Less is More Subseries New Life Assembly Matt 5:3; Luke 6:20 January 2, 2011
Bankrupt Keys of the Kingdom: Godly Character for a Godless World Less is More Subseries New Life Assembly Matt 5:3; Luke 6:20 January 2, 2011 Main Sermon Idea: Poverty is a spiritual qualification for
More informationConditions for Answered Prayer
Conditions for Answered Prayer Teaching Notes 1. Purity of Heart is Essential: Prayer is a matter of the heart. It is speaking to God from our heart not our head; heart to heart communion with the Lord.
More informationGrowing Pains January 13, 2019 James 1:2-12
I. Introduction go like this: Growing Pains January 13, 2019 James 1:2-12 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote a poem entitled The Rainy Day. The last couple of lines Thy fate is the common fate of all, Into
More informationJames; 1, 2 Peter. Practical Christian Living
[ I LLUMINATE ] James; 1, 2 Peter Unit 1 March 5 Trial and Temptation / 3 March 12 Submission to the Revealed Word / 9 March 19 The Law of Love / 15 March 26 Faith and Works Go Together / 21 Unit 2 April
More informationThe Epistle of James
1 Study Guide LESSON TWO TWO PATHS OF WISDOM For videos, manuscripts, and other Lesson resources, 2: Two visit Paths Third of Wisdom Millennium Ministries at thirdmill.org. 2 CONTENTS HOW TO USE THIS LESSON
More informationValley Bible Church Sermon Transcript
Turning Trials into Triumph James 1:2-12 Part Three We have introduced this epistle by saying that the theme is Tests of Living Faith. The first of those tests is the, Response to Trials test. We find
More informationLESSON 1. Introduction
LESSON 1 Introduction The Theme of James God offers us wisdom for a life of devotion as we grow in our understanding of His character. Key Concepts Perfect (1:4, 17, 25; 3:2) This concept involves wholeness
More informationD1, D2, D3 THE HEART, THE HOME, & MINISTRY: CULTIVATING A LIFE OF PRAYER
March 22-24, 2018 Lesson 12 D1, D2, D3 THE HEART, THE HOME, & MINISTRY: CULTIVATING A LIFE OF PRAYER Introduction: I. Prayer and its Purpose Prayer is a sincere, sensible, affectionate pouring out of the
More information1. And yet in the NT, the word crown is used to describe God s precious promise of eternal life. THE VICTORY CROWN
THE VICTORY CROWN A. In the early morning hours before Jesus was crucified the soldiers tore off His clothes & thrashed Him with a whip. 1. And yet in the NT, the word crown is used to describe God s precious
More informationHow to Live a Stable Life in this Very Unstable World
How to Live a Stable Life in this Very Unstable World Bible Study Outline by Dr Graham Truscott INTRO: We are living in a very unstable world. We are living in unstable times. (1) LIFE is unstable: The
More informationThe Epistle of James
1 Lesson Guide LESSON TWO TWO PATHS OF WISDOM For videos, manuscripts, and other Lesson resources, 2: Two visit Paths Third of Wisdom Millennium Ministries at thirdmill.org. 2 CONTENTS HOW TO USE THIS
More informationPhilippians 1:27-30 No: 3 Week: 254 Tuesday 20/07/10. Prayer. Bible passage - Philippians 1: Prayer Suggestions. Meditation
Philippians 1:27-30 No: 3 Week: 254 Tuesday 20/07/10 Prayer Rescue us and restore us, merciful Saviour! When we feel oppressed, Lord Jesus, bring peace to our souls and free us from evil. When we feel
More informationA Study Of The Book Of JAMES
A Study Of The Book Of JAMES page 1 Introduction To The Epistle Who wrote the book? Several men in the N.T. bore this name. James the son of Zebedee and brother of John is one. He was a fisherman and called
More informationA Study Of The Book Of JAMES
A Study Of The Book Of JAMES page 1 Introduction To The Epistle Who wrote the book? Several men in the N.T. bore this name. James the son of Zebedee and brother of John is one. He was a fisherman and called
More informationLEADER S GUIDE. Week 1 James 1:1-12. September 10, 2017
LEADER S GUIDE Week 1 James 1:1-12 September 10, 2017 Several resources to help you with Bible study such as concordances, Bible dictionaries, and commentaries are available for your use in the Adult Resource
More informationListening Guide. Reflective wisdom (as in Job and Ecclesiastes) insights into God s purposes
The Epistle of James Two Paths of Wisdom NT336 Lesson 02 of 02 Listening Guide I. Introduction [1] Purpose of James: James called his audience to pursue wisdom from God so that they would have joy in their
More information1. The of the tongue: The tongue is linked to the and no man can it. (v 1-2)
Taming the Tongue - James 3:1-12 1. The of the tongue: The tongue is linked to the and no man can it. (v 1-2) 2. The of the tongue: The tongue has the power to your life as well as to it. (v 3-6) 3. The
More informationTHE SERMON OF THE MOUNT Kay-Chong Yeo Page 1
Page 1 Session Fourteen The Invitation to a Fasted Lifestyle (Matt. 6:1 21) A. Introduction 1. The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus most comprehensive teaching on how to have a vibrant spirit. 2. It is His
More informationThe book of James is named for the man who wrote it (1:1). Four men in the New
CHAPTER 23: SURVEY OF THE LETTER OF JAMES PART 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK Section 1: The Human Author of the Book of James The book of James is named for the man who wrote it (1:1). Four men in the New
More informationSeries James. This Message Faith Without the Fear of God is Dead part 1 The Judge is standing at the door. Scripture James 5:1-11
Series James This Message Faith Without the Fear of God is Dead part 1 The Judge is standing at the door Scripture James 5:1-11 James wrote this letter to Jewish background believers who were in difficult
More informationRelating Wisely to Others
Relating Wisely to Others James 3:13, 18 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 18 Peacemakers who sow in
More informationMatthew 5:
The Sermon On The Mount. The Beatitudes Matthew 5:1-12 INTRODUCTION This sermon is Jesus earliest recorded message. This is the "gospel of the kingdom" in proclamation & preview. In this lesson we are
More informationGrace to Walk Out the Sermon on the Mount (Mt. 5-7)
I. SERMON ON THE MOUNT: THE CORE VALUES OF THE KINGDOM A. I refer to the Sermon on the Mount as the constitution of God s kingdom. It is Jesus most comprehensive statement about a believer s role in cooperating
More informationLESSON ONE: 1 PETER 1:1-2 OPENING QUESTION
INTRODUCTION Written to a scattered and persecuted church, the letters of 1&2 Peter challenge them to godly living. While Peter urges his readers to practice costly obedience he also comforts them with
More informationHighlights from The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer By Andrew Murray
Highlights from The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer By Andrew Murray Originally published in 1897, edited and updated By Nancy Renich, 1981 and 2003 Many people question, If the answer to prayer is so
More informationThe Christian Arsenal
PHILIPPIANS 1:19-30 Last week we began our study in the Book of Philippians. We saw as we studied that Philippians was written while Paul was imprisoned for preaching the Gospel. He was chained to a soldier
More informationWHEN SATAN CONSIDERS YOU
WHEN SATAN CONSIDERS YOU A. Jesus teaches us that it is foolish to lay up treasures anywhere except in Heaven (Matt 6:19-24)! 1. Job s prosperity, for example, appeared to give him much stability in life.
More informationSuch A Great Salvation! Pastor Charles R. Biggs
Sermon Title: Such A Great Salvation! The Book of Hebrews Such A Great Salvation! Pastor Charles R. Biggs Scripture Lesson: Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; 7:21-27 Scripture Text: Hebrews 2:1-4 Theme of Worship
More informationInto Thy Word Bible Study in 1 Peter
Into Thy Word Bible Study in 1 Peter Into Thy Word Ministries www.intothyword.org 1 Peter 4: 12-19: We May Suffer for Faithfully Being in Him!" General idea: Persecutions and sufferings have a reason and
More informationshort time had been less than a year, but with no communication that is a long time to wait.
First Thessalonians 2:17 2:1-12 - Paul had been talking about the character of his life and his style of ministry while in Thessalonica 2:13-14 Paul began to remember how the Thessalonians received the
More informationPhilippians 2: Stanly Community Church
With the Lord Jesus Christ as their example of humble service to God, Christians are to be an example of God s salvation to the world. And since it is God who works in His children to shine the light of
More informationSTEP OUT IN FAITH. Contents
Contents STEP OUT IN FAITH CHAPTER 1: DO NOT LIMIT GOD... 3 WHAT LIMITS GOD... 3 PRECONDITIONS ONE HAS TO CONSIDER TO BECOME GOD S VESSEL... 3 WHAT WE NEED TO KNOW... 3 CHAPTER 2: RISING UP TO YOUR POTENTIAL
More informationSeries Revelation. This Message #4 Revelation 2:8-11
Series Revelation This Message #4 Revelation 2:8-11 Chapter 1 of the book of Revelation provided us with some background information about the writer, John. He had been banished by Roman officials to the
More informationFINDING HOPE IN THE MIDST OF OUR TRIALS. James 1:1-18
FINDING HOPE IN THE MIDST OF OUR TRIALS James 1:1-18 James 1:1-4 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ: To the twelve tribes dispersed abroad. Greetings. Consider it a great joy, my brothers
More information2 Stay Focused. Hebrews 2:1-4
2 Stay Focused Hebrews 2:1-4 1 Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. 2 For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every
More information1 Ted Kirnbauer 9/2/12. I Peter 1:10-12
1 I Peter 1:10-12 I Peter 1:3-12 was written to provide us with the foundation necessary to overcome trials as well as prepare us for the exhortations about godly living in 1:13 and following. In verses
More informationA Study of the Book of James- Adapted from the commentary and workbook by Jim Everett- Practical Living
A Study of the Book of James- Adapted from the commentary and workbook by Jim Everett- Practical Living INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK OF JAMES The date of the writing and the place of its recipients, along
More informationGod earnestly desires to be Gracious to you
God earnestly desires to be Gracious to you Brendan Mc Crossan God earnestly desires to be gracious to you. Brendan Mc Crossan copyright@4-10-2011 One God wants to be gracious to you, yes that s you who
More informationB Y J OYCE M EYER DON T LET FEELINGS FOOL YOU FOLLOWING GOD IS EASIER WHEN WE ARE LED BY HIS SPIRIT R ATHER THAN BY OUR EMOTIONS.
C o v e r S t o r y B Y J OYCE M EYER DON T LET FEELINGS FOOL YOU FOLLOWING GOD IS EASIER WHEN WE ARE LED BY HIS SPIRIT R ATHER THAN BY OUR EMOTIONS. It is God s greatest desire that, as believers, you
More informationTherefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
2 Cor. 5:17 Christ the Center Gal 2:20 Christ the Center Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live,
More informationPRIDE. Every sin we will consider in this series is based upon pride; thus, overcoming pride will help us to overcome sin. Problems with Pride
Pride 33 Lesson 4 PRIDE The word pride has several meanings. One definition is proper respect for oneself; sense of one s own dignity or worth; selfrespect (Guralnik). Another definition is delight or
More informationJames Part 1: The Church of All Talk No Action
Sermon Notes James Part 1: The Church of All Talk No Action August 8, 2010 James 1 I. The Challenge of Unlived Truth: One of the greatest challenges that has always faced God s people is living out what
More information10 QUESTIONS TO DIAGNOSE MY SPIRITUAL HEALTH
1) Do I truly love God? Mark 12:30-31 John 4:34 John 14:21 John 21:15-17 Psalm 63:1-2 Is my heart profoundly and continually amazed at his grace in accepting me into a personal relationship? Does God truly
More information1. All Nations (Rev 7:9) Practice Hospitality (Rom 12:13) Welcome & invite others (Luke 14:23) Accept others (Rom 15:7)
Part 3: COVENANT (V a rious V er ses) I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior (Acts 16:31) and have been baptized (Mk 16:16), and being in agreement with UCM s statements, strategy, and structure
More informationWisdom and Troubles James 1:2-4 (1:12-16; 5:7-11) John Breon
Wisdom and Troubles James 1:2-4 (1:12-16; 5:7-11) John Breon We re starting a series through the New Testament letter of James. This James was one of the brothers of Jesus. He became the leader of the
More informationThe Faithful Few: Ruling with Jesus in the Millennial Kingdom
FORERUNNER SCHOOL OF MINISTRY MIKE BICKLE STUDIES IN THE MILLENNIAL KINGDOM The Faithful Few: Ruling with Jesus in the Millennial Kingdom I. THE SAINTS REIGNING IN THE MILLENNIAL KINGDOM 14 For many are
More information10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Rejoice in Tribulations What is the Purpose of Hardships? Romans 5:3-5 Living Bible (TLB) 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us they help us
More informationThe first pearl in memory s strand of wise conflict management is discipline.
Wisdom Worksheet: 12 Words to the Wise Discipline (musar) (Prov. 1:2, 3; 12:1; 1:7; 5:23) Introduction The first pearl in memory s strand of wise conflict management is discipline. Discipline and disciple
More informationEquipped to Serve. Why should church members be thoroughly equipped to serve?
Equipped to Serve Equipping Church Members to Serve So, Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the
More information"God's Love Story Sermon Outlines"
Section 37: The Testing of God s Love Story (James, 1 and 2 Peter, 1 John) There is a saying that goes something like this, You cannot tell the strength of the teabag until it is placed in hot water. It
More informationWhat Do You Want? Hebrews 11:24-27 Richard Tow
1 What Do You Want? Hebrews 11:24-27 Richard Tow 08.02.15 What do you want? That was the question God brought to Solomon when he became king of Israel. What do you want, Solomon? Tell me what you want;
More informationStand Your Ground Ephesians 6:14-15
Stand Your Ground Ephesians 6:14-15 Would you turn with me this morning to Ephesians 6:14-15. I want to continue to look at the armor of God. We have been looking at the idea that each and everyday that
More informationSeries Taught at Faith Life Church Branson
Series Taught at Faith Life Church Branson Truth or Tradition (Fridays, April - May 2002) * Available Online only * The Works and Ways of Jesus (Fridays, May - August 2002) * Available Online only * The
More informationDAILY READING BOOKLET. bible marking. daily reading. prayer time
DAILY READING BOOKLET daily reading bible marking prayer time Philippians 2 Theme reading given The words given, gave or sent appear 21 times in John 17. God has sent Jesus, given him power and authority,
More informationTHE DOCTRINE OF TRANSFORMATION
THE DOCTRINE OF TRANSFORMATION KEY VERSE Romans 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God s mercy, to offer your body s as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God- this is your spiritual
More informationROOTS OF CHARACTER. Introduction & Session one
ROOTS OF CHARACTER Introduction & Session one What can you expect to learn? How character is formed Principles of character The Be-Attitudes God s design for the New Man The roots of Character Developing
More informationHungering and Thirsting for Righteousness
B Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness Psalm 1:1-6; Matthew 5:1-12 (text) Rev. Nollie Malabuyo February 25, 2018 (BSCC) eloved Congregation of Christ: Our text this morning, commonly known as the
More informationHow To Be Blessed and Blameless Before the Lord. Psalm 119:1-8. Introduction: 1) In his treatise On Christian Freedom, (1520) the reformer
How To Be Blessed and Blameless Before the Lord Psalm 119:1-8 Introduction: 1) In his treatise On Christian Freedom, (1520) the reformer Martin Luther (1483-1546) wrote concerning the Bible, One thing
More information2. Why do you think James addresses this letter to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations?
Week 1: James 1:1-18 *Have someone read the passage or go around the circle and have everyone read a verse out loud. Then take some time to write down observations and applications, then discuss these
More informationIn scripture the word Grace is used in multiple ways and in different circumstances.
Mercy and Grace What is Grace? Many have tried to define what Grace means and in my almost 20 years of being born again I have not felt that anything I have heard completely reveals the fullness of what
More informationWritings of a Kingdom Age
168 Te n t s, Te m p l e s, a n d P a l a c e s LESSON 7 Writings of a Kingdom Age The Old Testament includes five books known as poetry or wisdom literature. These are Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes,
More informationSummation and Outline of Jerry Bridges The Practice of Godliness
Summation and Outline of Jerry Bridges The Practice of Godliness CHAPTER 1 VALUE FOR ALL THINGS (1 Tim. 4:8) Devotion in Action: Enoch (Gen. 5:21-24) Focused on God in three areas (the fear and love of
More informationPrayers for the overwhelmed
P R A Y E R G U I D E Prayers for the overwhelmed Prayer Guide: Prayers for the Overwhelmed Copyright 2011, PrayerPower, Dallas, Texas prayer guide Prayers for the overwhelmed PrayerPower P.O. Box 801368,
More informationMESSAGE 3 BECOMING TRULY STRONG
Message No: Series: Appearance and Reality Section: The Lord Jesus Christ Subsection: Truly Strong Date preached: 29 May 94 Date edited: 7 Jul 07 (revised Aug 14) MESSAGE 3 BECOMING TRULY STRONG In the
More informationSermon : When Opportunity Knocks Page 1
Sermon : When Opportunity Knocks Page 1 When Opportunity Knocks Text : Luke 12: 15-21 ; Acts 4: 36 5:11 S#1. A. Jesus calls us as we are, but tells us we must become different. S#2. John 3: 3 Jesus answered
More informationSermon Study on Isaiah 49:1-6
Sermon: WELS Walking Together (Advent 1) - Pastor Todd Goldschmidt Sunday 10:15 am November 27 th, 2011 At Living Hope Lutheran Church Sermon Study on Isaiah 49:1-6 Verse 1 - Listen to me, you islands;
More informationLife in the Pressure Cooker of Trials
Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Life in the Pressure Cooker of Trials Series:
More informationMark 10: 17-23; Good Teacher, What shall I Do? Sermon # 83 in the series Astonished at His Teaching, Delivered by Pastor Paul Rendall
Mark 10: 17-23; Good Teacher, What shall I Do? Sermon # 83 in the series Astonished at His Teaching, Delivered by Pastor Paul Rendall on February 13 th, 2011, in the Morning Worship Service. This is no
More informationHOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND MAINTAIN THE FULLNESS OF THE SPIRIT 2
Message no: Series: Appearance and Reality Section: The Cross Its Significance Sub-section: The Spirit-filled Life Date preached: 6 Oct 96 Date edited: 31 Jan 12 HOW TO RECEIVE THE BAPTISM WITH THE HOLY
More informationWhat from Matt s session deepened your understanding of the background and content of the psalm?
Session 1: Psalm 119:1 16 DISCUSS How familiar are you with Psalm 119? What from Matt s session deepened your understanding of the background and content of the psalm? What are the two categories Matt
More information2 Corinthians: Whose Ministry is It, Anyway? Ministry Complications Lesson Scripture: 2 Corinthians 11 HCSB
May 24, 2015 2 Corinthians: Whose Ministry is It, Anyway? Ministry Complications Lesson Scripture: 2 Corinthians 11 HCSB Key Passage 2 Corinthians 11:5-32 Dig Deeper? You can do additional reading and
More informationChristian Living 101. James 1. James 1. Faith that is genuine calls for action in all the details of life.
Focal Text James 1 Background James 1 Main Idea Faith that is genuine calls for action in all the details of life. Question to Explore Is our Christian faith so real that we live it out in the details
More informationExegetical Study of 1 Peter Dr. Scott Pace
A Living Hope (1 Pet 1:1-9) Exegetical Study of 1 Peter Dr. Scott Pace We are assured of trouble in this world. Jesus promised it (John 16:33, John 15:18) and the rest of Scripture affirms this truth.
More informationHebrews Chapter Three Leon Combs, Ph.D.
Hebrews Chapter Three Leon Combs, Ph.D. Heb 3:1 4 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the Apostle and High Priest of our confession. 2 He was faithful to Him who
More informationRevelation 2:8-11. Hearing What the Spirit is Saying to the Church, Pt. 3 The Message to the Church at Smyrna.
Revelation 2:8-11 Hearing What the Spirit is Saying to the Church, Pt. 3 The Message to at Smyrna. Revelation 2:8-11, 8 And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: The first and the last, who was dead,
More informationHebrews 3: Stanly Community Church
There is an important question you must ask yourself if you profess to be a Christian: Do I genuinely trust the Christ of Scripture today? It is not enough to simply point to a time in the past when you
More informationTHE PERSONAL LIFE OF A KINGDOM LEADER
THE PERSONAL LIFE OF A KINGDOM LEADER Introduction: A Kingdom leader is: Concerned more about advancement of God s Kingdom than personal advancement. -Example of Jesus: Philippians 2:1-11 -Example of Paul:
More informationChanging Your Thought Patterns
Changing Your Thought Patterns How can I stop having lustful thoughts? How can I have victory over my negative, critical, pessimistic thinking? How can I keep from feeling angry, jealous, guilty, depressed,
More informationThis Exiled Life Part 5
June 11, 2017 College Park Church This Exiled Life Part 5 Stand Firm 1 Peter Review 1 Peter 5:12-14 Mark Vroegop By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting
More informationJames. Participants Guide. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22
James Participants Guide Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22 Tim Keller Redeemer Presbyterian Church 2007 All rights reserved. In compliance with copyright
More informationI LL SHOW YOU (PART 2 - TESTING FAITH) VISIBLE FAITH IN THE BOOK OF JAMES
I LL SHOW YOU (PART 2 - TESTING FAITH) VISIBLE FAITH IN THE BOOK OF JAMES You know what it means that Jesus is Lord? He wins. Christians should live with an undying optimism because Jesus is Lord and Jesus
More information