Willing to Live Acts 4:1-12
|
|
- Gwen Lloyd
- 6 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Willing to Live Acts 4:1-12 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson Easter, April 16, 2017
2 WILLING TO LIVE Acts 4:1-12 Today is Easter, the greatest event in Christian history, and the greatest event in human history. We can say that because Easter is the story of a divine rescue. It is about God s pursuit of those He loves. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16). But God did not just send His Son, He sacrificed His Son. Jesus died for us! He was nailed to a cross for us. He paid the penalty for our sin. And He did it, so that we might be forgiven of everything we ve ever done wrong, so that we might have peace within and peace with God, and so that we might live forever with Him in heaven, in a place He called Paradise. And the proof that this is true is the resurrection. The resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God and that everything He said is true. As Christians, we are here today to celebrate Jesus. We are here to express our gratitude, to affirm our faith, and to renew our commitment to Jesus. And we get to do that in freedom and in comfort. That s not the experience of many Christians around the world today. Last Sunday, hundreds of Christians in Egypt were celebrating Palm Sunday, when suddenly bombs went off in two different churches north of Cairo. And ISIS proudly took responsibility for the attacks, which left 49 dead and over 100 injured. These people just went to church. With their families. And bombs went off. And people died. Going to church in Egypt, and in other parts of the world, is risky. A lot of Christians in the world live every day under the threat of persecution. But I m not going to ask you if you re willing to die for your faith. That s not the question at all. Our circumstances are different. We worship in freedom and comfort. We don t live under the threat of a bomb going off. The relevant question for us is not whether we are willing to die for Jesus, but whether we are willing to live for Jesus. And by that, I mean, giving Him first place in our lives. Trusting Him and loving Him and obeying Him in everything He asks. To live for Jesus is to love Him above everything else in our lives. Since you re here on Easter, you probably have a favorable view of Jesus. Most of us are Christians and we re here to celebrate Jesus. Some of you may still have questions and have yet to settle the faith issue, and I respect that. I m glad you re here and seeking answers. Some of you may be very skeptical, and you find it hard to believe, and I understand why. Christianity makes some incredible claims. Some of you are here to keep family tradition. And some of you are here with heavy burdens and wonder if God cares and if He can help. There s a broad spectrum of belief and emotion in this room. But most of us have a favorable view of Jesus. We believe in Jesus. The question is, to what degree? To what degree do you embrace Jesus? To what degree is He the foundation of your life? Jesus was willing to die for you, are you willing to live for Him? Trusting Him and loving Him and obeying Him. Giving Him first place in everything. 1 How big a deal is Jesus to you? Do you believe it and do you live it? That s what I want you to think about this morning as we let Peter tell us his story. 1
3 SO MANY OPINIONS Peter was a fisherman. He met Jesus one day at the Sea of Galilee, and Jesus invited Peter to follow Him. And Peter left everything to follow Jesus. He followed Him for three years. He heard every word and witnessed every miracle. Peter was an eyewitness to the crucifixion. He watched Jesus suffer and bleed and die. And, he was an eyewitness to the resurrection. Peter saw Jesus alive again! And he could not stop talking about it. Even when he was arrested and threatened, he kept talking about Jesus. When he was arrested a second time, and flogged with a whip, he kept talking about Jesus. 2 Two months after the resurrection, While Peter and John were speaking to the people, they were confronted by the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and some of the Sadducees. These leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John were teaching the people that through Jesus there is a resurrection of the dead. So, they arrested them But many of the people who heard their message believed it (Acts 4:1-4, NLT). This was just two months after the resurrection. And some believed and some were very disturbed. 3 Jerusalem was a divided city. We know what that feels like. We live in a divided nation. Last year s election proved that. We are divided over politics, over race, and over issues like healthcare and immigration, abortion and same-sex marriage. And, there are so many opinions about religion too. Some believe, and some don t. Denzel Washington does, but George Clooney does not. Tyler Perry does, but Bill Maher does not. Carrie Underwood does, but Emma Watson does not. Bono does, but Bill Gates does not. Again, some believe, and some don t. 4 For some, the resurrection of Jesus is true and it is their hope. But others, it is nonsense. Some believe and some don t. SO WHAT ABOUT JESUS? Peter believed. He believed because he was eyewitnesses. And he could not stop talking about Jesus. That s why he was arrested. When the religious council interrogated Peter, they did not ask him questions about the resurrection; they asked him about the healing of a lame man in front of the temple. You can imagine the excitement in front of the temple when a miracle happens. But the religious leaders were outraged because it drew attention away from what they were doing inside the temple. It would be like a food truck parking in front of a restaurant; the restaurant owner is going to get mad. The religious leaders had the corner on the God market, and Peter was infringing on their business. So they demanded, By what power, or in whose name, have you done this? (Acts 4:7, NLT). On the one hand they were demanding, Who said you could set up shop here? and on the other hand they were asking, How did you do that? And this is what Peter said. Are we being questioned today because we ve done a good deed for a crippled man? Do you want to know how he was healed? Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead (Acts 4:9-10, NLT). 2
4 Peter was the most outspoken of Jesus disciples. He was the bold one. But when Jesus was arrested and crucifixion was imminent, Peter hid in the shadows. He even denied knowing Jesus three times. Where was Peter when Jesus was crucified? The Bible says he ran away and wept bitterly. 5 So, what changed Peter from crying in the corner to walking the streets talking about Jesus? The resurrection. When he was interrogated, Peter said, The man you crucified God raised from the dead (Acts 4:10, NLT). I stand here today believing that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God and that everything He said is true. The resurrection is the foundation of Christianity. 6 If there was no resurrection, there is no Christianity. If there was no resurrection, Jesus is still dead. 7 And there s nothing to believe. Logic demands that we admit that. If the resurrection of Jesus never happened, it would be foolish to believe it. But if it did happen, it would be foolish not to believe it! And, it would be foolish not to base your entire life on Jesus. But it did happen, and the resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God and that everything He said is true. Do you believe it that is true and do you live like it is true? Peter said, Do you want to know how he was healed? He was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ (Acts 4:9-10, NLT). I stand here today believing that the resurrection proves that Jesus has the power to change lives. And we re so glad He does, because He has changed our lives, and knowing Him is so much better. No one could deny that the lame man had been healed. Every day, his family brought his stretcher to the temple and laid him there to beg for alms. Everyone knew this man. They had seen him for years in front of the temple begging for a handout. Now he was jumping up and down and praising God. It was a miracle, and it was undeniable. The religious leaders did not deny what happened; they just wanted to know how. And Peter said, By the powerful name of Jesus the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead (Acts 4:10). The resurrection proves that Jesus has the power to change lives, to put broken pieces back together. Whether you re 15 or 50 or older, all of us have regrets. All of us know what a messed up life looks like. Our circumstances may be different, but all of us have experienced the consequences of bad choices. I want you to watch the story of one young woman whose life was like that. Here is Kristin s story. [VIDEO] Did you hear her? I felt so bad that Jesus had to own me. You could see the shame and the regret she felt, and you could see the relief and the joy she felt as she talked about Jesus. Jesus really did die for me. Jesus changed her life. Your life may look a lot different from Kristin s, but all of us can identify with her, because all of us have regret. All of us have messed up. All of us have felt shame and guilt and regret over something. All of us are broken people, and Jesus heals broken people. The biggest problem in our lives, the great cancer in our lives, is our own sin. That s where the regret and shame and guilt come from. It comes from living without God. But no matter what you ve done or who you ve become, God s love is bigger. His love and forgiveness is bigger than your sin, your shame, or your regret. And He is willing to forgive you of everything you ve ever done wrong, and to give 3
5 you a new life. The Bible says, If anyone is in Christ (if a person believes in Christ), he is a new creation, the old is gone and the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17). Jesus has the power to change lives. He changed Peter s life, He changed Kristin s life, He s changed many of our lives, and if you turn to Jesus, He will put the broken pieces of your life back together and change your life too. Peter continued. I stand here today believing that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the only reliable foundation upon which to build our lives. Peter was an uneducated and nonreligious man, and yet he quoted the Hebrew Scriptures to Hebrew scholars. The stone you rejected has now become the cornerstone (Acts 4:11, NLT). 8 The Jewish establishment rejected Jesus and crucified Him as heretic. But the resurrection proves otherwise. The resurrection proves that Jesus is the cornerstone promised by God. Centuries earlier the Lord promised, I lay a stone in Zion (a leader from Jerusalem), a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will not be disappointed. Now to those who believe, this stone is precious (1 Peter 2:6-7). 9 Jesus is that cornerstone. He is the foundation of our faith. 10 Everything we believe, everything we trust, everything we hope, rests upon Jesus. Because Jesus rose from the dead, proving to be the Son of God, we choose to believe in Him and trust Him with our lives and with our eternity. A cornerstone is the stone at the corner of a building that joins two adjacent walls. It is the first stone and must be perfectly laid. A cornerstone is the point of reference to which the rest of the building is measured and aligned. It is the stone upon which the entire building is built. This is a picture of the laying of the cornerstone of the Empire State Building. It was laid in 1930, and 102 stories rest on that stone. So the question is, is Jesus the cornerstone of me? Not just am I a Christian, but is my life aligned with Him? Is He the foundation of my life? Am I building my life upon Him? Most of us believe in Jesus, but to what degree? Jesus was willing to die for you, are you willing to live for Him? How big a deal is Jesus to you? Do you believe and do you live it? This is how the Apostle Paul answered that question. For the love of Christ compels me, because I am convinced that Jesus died for me, and He died for all of us, so we should no longer live for ourselves but for Him, who died for us and rose again from the dead (2 Corinthians 5:14-15, paraphrase). The love of Christ compelled Paul. It gripped him. The love of Christ was so captivating and so irresistible that it overwhelmed him. And he lived passionately for Jesus the rest of his life. He believed it and He lived it. Most of believe in Jesus, but too often there s a gap between what we profess and how we really live. It s the difference between being a casual Christian and a passionate Christian. When I say casual Christian, I m talking about being a 75% Christian. In school, 75% is a C. Guys may say 75% is great as a completion rate for an NFL quarterback. But what would a wife say if her husband was faithful only 75% of the time? A casual Christian lives a moral life, but not quite willing to do everything Jesus said. But the passionate Christian is so motivated by a love for Jesus that he s willing to do anything Jesus asks; no matter how sacrificial, no matter how unpopular. Jesus said, If you love Me, you will 4
6 keep My commandments (John 14:15). The passionate Christian obeys Jesus because he loves Jesus. A casual Christian is a good person and avoids big sins, but rationalizes little sins and tends to blend in with the crowd. A casual Christian dreads getting caught. But the passionate Christian dreads the thought of offending his holy Father. A casual Christian believes the Bible is true, but is selective in how it shapes his life. But the passionate Christian reads the Bible like food for the soul. King David said his delight was in the word of God, and that meditated on God s word day and night. 11 Jesus had a word for casual Christianity; He called it lukewarm. And here s what He said about being lukewarm. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm neither hot nor cold I am about to spit you out of my mouth (Revelation 3:15-16, NIV). Casual Christianity is superficial. It s looking the part. It s going through the motions. And it makes Jesus sick. Jesus was willing to die for you, are you willing to live for Him? And by that, I mean giving Him first place in your life. Trusting Him and loving Him and obeying Him in everything He asks. To live for Jesus is to love Him above everything else in your life. The last thing Peter said was this. I stand here today believing that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the only way of salvation. There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12, NLT). There is salvation in no one else. Some people think church is irrelevant. A lot of people are offended by the accusation of sin and don t think they need saving. But everyone needs saving, because everyone has sinned and made a mess of their lives in ways they can t fix. Only Jesus can fix what s wrong. No one else. I need a Savior, you need a Savior, everyone needs a Savior. If you re not a Christian at this point in your life, Jesus wants to be that Savior for you. This is what He wants to do for you. He wants to free you from sin and guilt and regret, just like He did for Kristin. If you accept Jesus, He will lift all of that off your shoulders. You will feel such relief and such peace. He wants to be your Savior, because if you don t accept His payment for your sin, you ll have to pay it yourself. Jesus wants to spare you from the punishment of hell, that place the Bible calls eternal torment, a place of eternal separation from God. If you accept Jesus, you won t have to fear that anymore. And Jesus wants to bring you home. Back to God. As a child of God. Forgiveness, peace, heaven. There s only one way. There is salvation in no one else (Acts 4:12). Jesus was so clear. I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me (John 14:6, NAS). I realize resurrection is an incredible, impossible claim. I understand why a person would be skeptical. And I admit, if the resurrection of Jesus never happened, it would be foolish to believe 5
7 it. But if it did happen, it would be foolish not to believe it! And, foolish not to base your entire life on Jesus. Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for your sin. And He supernaturally rose from the dead proving to be the Son of God and proving that everything He said was true. And the moment you believe in Him, you will be forgiven of everything you ve ever done wrong. You will experience peace within and peace with God. And you will have the hope of spending eternity with Him in a place He called Paradise. And all you have to do is confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, and you shall be saved (Romans 10:9, NLT). We want to help you in any way we can. If you re ready to believe and put your faith in Jesus, we d love to help you do that. If you have questions, we d love to sit down and talk with you. If you a problem or some need in your life, we want to help and pray with you. If there s any way we can help us at church@tcacc.net or text us at CONCLUSION As Christians, we gather today to celebrate Jesus. We affirm our faith and take our stand with Peter. We believe that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God and that everything He said is true. We believe that the resurrection proves that Jesus has the power to change lives. We believe that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the only reliable foundation upon which to base our lives. We believe that the resurrection proves that Jesus is the only way of salvation. If you believe, then go and live like you believe it. 6
8 NOTES 1 See Ephesians 1:18. 2 See Acts 5: Jerusalem was divided. Some were very disturbed and others who heard the message believed. The same thing was true a few years later in Athens. Some laughed in contempt and some believed (Acts 17:32, 34). And the same thing was true in Rome. Some were persuaded and others were not (Acts 28:24). 4 The Bible predicts this. For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18, NAS). 5 See Matthew 26:75. 6 See these references, which prove the centrality of the resurrection in the first days of the early church Acts 1:3, 2:24, 2:31, 2:32, 3:15, 4:10, 5:30, 10:40, 13:30, 17:31. 7 See 1 Corinthians 15: See 1 Peter 2:7. 9 But to those who do not believe, The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, and, a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense (1 Peter 2:7-8). The Jews rejected Jesus and had Him crucified. To them, He was a stumbling block, and to Gentiles, He was foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:23). Jesus will be either the foundation of your life or a stumbling block. And many people stumble over Jesus and are offended when Christians insist that Jesus is the only way to God. We understand that. But Jesus made it clear. I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father but through Me (John 14:6). So, Jesus will be the cornerstone and the foundation upon which you build your life, or He will be a stumbling stone and a stone of offense. Accept Him or reject Him. Believe in Him or be offended by Him. But know that your decision will determine the foundation of your life and your eternal destiny. When it comes to construction, nothing is more important than the foundation. 10 See 1 Corinthians 3: See Psalm 1:2. 7
Saul/Paul, the Conversion Acts 9
Saul/Paul, the Conversion Acts 9 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, October 21, 2018 SAUL/PAUL, THE CONVERSION Acts 9 [VIDEO 1 ] What a story of one man coming to faith in Jesus Christ.
More informationThe Message Acts 2:22-41
The Message Acts 2:22-41 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, September 2, 2018 THE MESSAGE Acts 2:22-41 For 100 years, Eastman Kodak dominated the market on film for cameras. One hundred
More informationThe Holy Spirit s Power: A pattern is beginning to develop.
The Holy Spirit s Power: A pattern is beginning to develop. Step 1: Power. Redemptive power and Regenerative power. The experience is different, but the Giver is the same God acts! Step 2: Witness. The
More informationThe Prayer Praying as They Prayed Acts 4:23-31
The Prayer Praying as They Prayed Acts 4:23-31 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, September 23, 2018 THE PRAYER PRAYING AS THEY PRAYED Acts 4:23-31 [Video] I love comedian Jon Crist
More informationThey found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3
Easter Does Make A Difference? Luke 24:1-12 1 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away
More informationThe Fruit of the Spirit is Faithfulness Why Character Matters 1 Peter 1:13-19
The Fruit of the Spirit is Faithfulness Why Character Matters 1 Peter 1:13-19 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, July 22, 2018 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS FAITHFULNESS WHY CHARACTER
More informationThe Boldness of the Early Church; Acts 4; 04016; Page 1 of 10
The Boldness of the Early Church; Acts 4; 04016; Page 1 of 10 The Boldness of the Early Church Are we too easily frightened? Acts 4 Don Ruhl Savage Street, Grants Pass, Oregon February 19, In the year
More informationNotice that the PRIESTS, the CAPTAIN OF THE TEMPLE and the SADDUCEES ~ actually ceased upon Peter and John. This was a CODE BLUE
Acts 4:1-31 Wednesday, January 31, 2018 Some history First recorded persecution of the church Acts 4:1 4 (NKJV) 1 Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees
More informationGOOD FRIDAY DEATH BENEFITS
GOOD FRIDAY Parts 1-3 We must keep our eyes on Jesus, who leads us and makes our faith complete. He endured the shame of being nailed to a cross, because he knew that later on he would be glad that he
More informationRead Text: 1. This looks just like Jesus! (32)
Title: What s mine is yours Text: Acts 4.32-37 Theme: Your need is my need Series: Acts Prop Stmnt: Caring for one another is picture of and outgrowth of the gospel. Read Text: Many of the NT epistles,
More informationThe Mission Acts 1:1-11
The Mission Acts 1:1-11 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, August 19, 2018 THE MISSION Acts 1:1-11 The Bucket List is a movie about a billionaire and an auto mechanic who share a room
More informationPeter and John in Trouble Acts 3:1-4:31
Peter and John in Trouble Acts 3:1-4:31 2 One day Peter and John were walking to the temple at about 3:00 in the afternoon to pray and tell others about Jesus. As they walked up to the gate a man lay there
More informationThere are Bibles on the tables, there s an outline to take notes, and there are
1 Responding to Persecution (Acts 4:1-22) Café Church 10-Dec-17 Intro There are Bibles on the tables, there s an outline to take notes, and there are questions on the table. Let me pray first Recap/Context
More informationTHE CHURCH AT LAODICEA. Lukewarm Revelation 3:14-22
THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA Lukewarm Revelation 3:14-22 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson February 25, 2018 THE CHURCH AT LAODICEA Lukewarm Revelation 3:14-22 I love passion, and respect
More informationJesus Crucifixion and Resurrection
UNIT 32 Session 2 Use Week of: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection 2 BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 26:36 28:10; John 18:1 20:18 MAIN POINT: Jesus died on the cross to save people from sin, and He is alive. KEY
More informationResurrection: Past, Present and Future Pastor Joe Oakley GFC Easter
1 Resurrection: Past, Present and Future Pastor Joe Oakley GFC Easter 4-1-18 It s ironic that Easter and April Fool s Day fall on the same day this year. Many people think that Christians are foolish because
More informationSUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON The Life of Jesus
THE CRUCIFIXION Elementary Lesson Year Two, Quarter Three, Lesson Twelve SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON The Life of Jesus AIM: to teach my class that we are saved by looking at the cross. OBJECTS TO HAVE: A phone
More informationConfronting the Gap James 1:22-25
Confronting the Gap James 1:22-25 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson June 11, 2017 CONFRONTING THE GAP James 1:22-25 Norman Rockwell is one of the most famous painters in American history,
More informationLesson 12 - Evangelism
Lesson 12 - Evangelism The greatest threat to Christianity is Christians trying to sneak into heaven without ever sharing their faith. One of the great privileges we have as God s children is the authority
More informationSurvey of Acts and Romans. by Duane L. Anderson
Survey of Acts and Romans by Duane L. Anderson Survey of Acts and Romans A study of the books of Acts and Romans for Small Group or Personal Bible Study American Indian Bible Institute Box 511 Norwalk,
More informationREDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE
SESSION 5 REDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE The Point God can redeem us from even our worst failures. The Passage Luke 22:54-62; Acts 4:8-13 The Bible Meets Life I ve thought a lot about failure in recent
More informationReceive. Reflect. Remember. Sunday, April 9
Sunday, April 9 Matthew 28:18 20 Then Jesus came to them and said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
More information*THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Page 1 of 11 *THE MESSAGE OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 1 Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the
More informationAS A LAMB, SLAIN FOR SIN 1 Corinthians 15:1-3
April 13, 2014 Palm Sunday, Providence AS A LAMB, SLAIN FOR SIN 1 Corinthians 15:1-3 INTRODUCTION: What would you do if you found yourself facing certain execution? Most of us never even think such a thing
More informationWhy do we resist God? Acts 3:1-4:22 October 27, 2013 (All scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible
Why do we resist God? Acts 3:1-4:22 October 27, 2013 (All scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible Recently, in the course of my annual physical, when asked, I told my doctor that I go to the
More informationHow you view the cross determines what you do with the cross.
How you view the cross determines what you do with the cross. How you view the cross determines what you do with the cross. What you do with the cross determines your destiny. How you view the cross determines
More informationDRESSED TO IMPRESS; DRESSED TO IMPACT; DRESSED TO EMPOWER
DRESSED TO IMPRESS; DRESSED TO IMPACT; DRESSED TO EMPOWER ACTS 1: 1-5; ACTS 2: 1-4; ACTS 3: 1-5; ACTS 4: 1-4 A 3-PART SERMON SERIES ON THE HOLY SPIRIT SCRIPTURE: ACTS 1:1-5 SERMON #1 SUBJECT: DRESSED TO
More informationSermon Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on the first lesson for the Third Sunday of Easter, Acts 3:11-21
Sermon 4-15-18 Pastor Ray Lorthioir Trinity Lutheran Church W. Hempstead, NY Based on the first lesson for the Third Sunday of Easter, Acts 3:11-21 Suffering Messiah Power Here s something that Jesus said
More information9, 2018, 10:30 AM 4:13-22; 8:34-38; I
THE SPIRIT OF UNBELIEF. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church September 9, 2018, 10:30 AM Scripture Texts: Acts 4:13-22; Mark 8:34-38; I Corinthians 1:26-31 Introduction. We are in chapter
More informationHOW TO BE RIGHT WITH GOD
HOW TO BE RIGHT WITH GOD Romans 1:8-17 Key Verse: 1:17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: The righteous will
More informationRead Sermon Text: P a g e 1. Life Link. Countdown: Back Ground: Music Video: Sermon Video Illustration: Sandcastles. Title: "Living Stone"
P a g e 1 Life Link Countdown: Back Ground: Music Video: Sermon Video Illustration: Sandcastles Title: "Living Stone" Introduction: Peter use the text from Psalm 34:8 as he writes to the Christian "you
More informationFamily Devotional. Year Year 1 Quarter 3. God s Word for ALL Generations
3 Year Year 1 Quarter 3 Family Devotional Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven. Your faithfulness endures to all generations; You established the earth, and it abides. Psalm 119:89 90 God s
More informationStartled By Christ s Love
God has poured out His love Romans 5:5 I. Reclaiming Easter Startled by Christ s Love Startled By Christ s Love God has poured out His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5) Colossians 3:16 Preparation Let
More informationThe Fruit of the Spirit is Love, but Not the Romantic Kind 1 John 3 and 4
The Fruit of the Spirit is Love, but Not the Romantic Kind 1 John 3 and 4 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, June 10, 2018 THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS LOVE, BUT NOT THE ROMANTIC KIND
More informationChrist and the Sinner Jesus Christ Our Great High Priest
THE LIFE and TIMES of JESUS CHRIST MEDIA REFERENCE NUMBER SM-350 OCTOBER 24, 1999 THE TITLE OF THE MESSAGE: Christ and the Sinner Jesus Christ Our Great High Priest THE THEME OF THIS SERIES: Colossians
More informationProtecting Our Minds (Helmet of Salvation) Eph. 6:17 & 1 Thes. 5:8-9
Protecting Our Minds (Helmet of Salvation) Eph. 6:17 & 1 Thes. 5:8-9 1 Thessalonians 5:8-9 (NIV) 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be selfcontrolled, putting on faith and love as a breastplate,
More informationA Study of the Acts of the Apostles Week Four Acts 3:14
A Study of the Acts of the Apostles Week Four Acts 3:14 Day One 14 You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. 15 You killed the author of life, but God raised
More informationPreach Jesus Acts 4:1-12 Sept. 19, 2010
1 Preach Jesus Acts 4:1-12 Sept. 19, 2010 As we continue to wade through the Book of Acts, what will see is the steadfast courage that the members of the early Church displayed. They possessed a Spirit-
More informationJESUS IS THE CORNERSTONE
Luke 20:1-19 Key Verse: 20:17b JESUS IS THE CORNERSTONE The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. In the last event, Jesus entered Jerusalem as King, riding on a donkey. We call it The
More informationThe Church The Beauty of the Bride Acts 2:42-47
The Church The Beauty of the Bride Acts 2:42-47 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, September 9, 2018 THE CHURCH THE BEAUTY OF THE BRIDE Acts 2:42-47 One of the most beautiful moments
More informationPsalm 118:22 29 Christ the Stone
HOME BIBLE STUDIES & SERMONS ABIDING IN CHRIST SEARCH DEVOTIONS PERSONAL GROWTH LINKS LATEST ADDITION Psalm 118:22 29 Christ the Stone Psalm 118 opens and closes with the same refrain. "Give thanks to
More informationSermon Series The Acts Of The Apostles. Part 5 The Boldness Of Peter And John
1 Rev. William J. Shields St. Mark Lutheran Church, Lindenhurst, Illinois The Fourth Sunday After Pentecost Father s Day June 16, 2013 Gospel Lesson Acts 4:1-22 Sermon Series The Acts Of The Apostles Part
More informationTHE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST DOES IT MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE?
THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST DOES IT MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE? RESURRECTION SUNDAY April, 1, 2018 BCC. Midway All followers of Jesus are very aware that the death, burial and Resurrection of Christ are absolutely
More informationSession 1 Judas the Betrayer
Session 1 Judas the Betrayer Mark 14:43-52 To Begin Spend some time sharing something good or new from your past week. When was the last time you were nervous or fearful the night before a big event or
More informationActs Unstoppable God.
Unstoppable God Acts 5:17-42 Acts 5.17-42. Unstoppable God. Introduction: Pg. 913 - Redemption Kids (upstairs) Palm Sunday... Hosanna: In Psalm 118 is a cry for salvation. But when they shouted it as Jesus
More informationWE ARE THE BODY MOUTH THAT SPEAKS
WE ARE THE BODY MOUTH THAT SPEAKS OPEN: Before Jesus left for home (Heaven) He told us: Go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19). You will be my witnesses. (Acts 1:8). - We have good news to share the Holy
More information15 th April The Foundation of Our World Mathew Hessian
15 th April The Foundation of Our World Mathew Hessian What a busy few weeks we have had here at Caversham Firstly, we have been through what I thought was a fantastic series about living missional lives.
More informationSTUDY TWO: Ephesians 2:6-3:6
EPHESIANS STUDY STUDY TWO: Ephesians 2:6-3:6 Study Two, Part One 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he
More informationJesus Crucifixion and Resurrection
Unit 32 Session 2 Use Week of: April 1, 2018 Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection Matthew 26:36 28:10; John 18:1 20:18 MAIN POINT: Jesus died on the cross to save people from sin, and He is alive. KEY PASSAGE:
More informationAmong them were Mary Magdalene, Mary (the mother of James and Joseph), and the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee.
The Resurrection and the Life in Jesus Jesus said, I am the resurrection and the life. But before resurrection - rising again - can happen, there must first be death. And there is no doubt that Jesus really
More informationOctober 2, Corinthians 1:17-18 Pastor Larry Adams Remember the Message of the Cross
October 2, 2016 1 Corinthians 1:17-18 Pastor Larry Adams Remember the Message of the Cross Hi Everyone. My name is Larry Adams and I want to take a moment to thank you for reading this message. At Golden
More informationGetting into God s Playbook Knowing and Discovering Your Position in God Ken Birks, Pastor/Teacher
Getting into God s Playbook Knowing and Discovering Your Position in God I. Introductory Remarks. John 12:26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone
More informationSTUDYING THE BOOK OF ACTS IN SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS
STUDYING THE BOOK OF ACTS IN SMALL GROUP DISCUSSIONS Lesson 11 - Ananias and Sapphira - Acts 5:1-11 Read the following verses in the Last Days Bible or a translation of your choice. Then discuss the questions
More informationTHE GOD QUESTION Is God real? If so, is He relevant? Psalm 19 & Psalm 3
THE GOD QUESTION Is God real? If so, is He relevant? Psalm 19 & Psalm 3 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson May 7, 2017 THE GOD QUESTION Is God real? If so, is He relevant? Psalm 19
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 5:27-42 King James Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, September 20, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.
International Bible Lessons Commentary Acts 5:27-42 King James Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, September 20, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons
More informationPastor Dave Patterson not a fan. Part 2: The Payoff
Pastor Dave Patterson not a fan. Part 2: The Payoff USING THIS SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDE We have provided all the Scriptures referenced in the sermon and some discussion questions for you to use to facilitate
More informationUse Week of: Leader BIBLE STUDY
st-2nd Grade (0:5am) Sunday April 20, 204 Leader BIBLE STUDY Use Week of: Why did Jesus have to die? Why couldn t He just say, You are forgiven? God is just and requires due payment for sin. To simply
More informationActs Lesson 13 Handout
Acts Lesson 13 Handout Acts 3:11 While he was clinging to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them at the so-called portico of Solomon, full of amazement. 12 But when Peter saw this, he replied
More informationa. Today we look at the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. f. It is important that we never lose sight of the centrality and importance of the cross.
THE CROSS Compilation of Verses I. INTRODUCTION- a. Today we look at the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. b. Death by crucifixion was a horrible, humiliating and torturous way to die. c. Whatever depictions
More informationThe Three R s Various passages April 1, 2018
The Three R s Various passages April 1, 2018 Introduction: One of the fundamental axioms of elementary education is that you need to teach kids what is referred to as the three R s: reading, writing, and
More informationTHE DEATH QUESTION What happens when we die? 1 John 5:11-12
THE DEATH QUESTION What happens when we die? 1 John 5:11-12 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson May 28, 2017 THE DEATH QUESTION What happens when we die? 1 John 5:11-12 For several weeks,
More informationConfronting the Unbelief of Degrading Shame. 2 Timothy 1:7 12
Confronting the Unbelief of Degrading Shame 2 Timothy 1:7 12 I am Not Simon Peter and John followed Jesus from the garden to the courtyard of the high priest. John spoke to the servant girl and brought
More informationJesus Crucifixion and Resurrection
UNIT 32 Session 2 Use Week of: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection Matthew 26:36 28:10; John 18:1 20:18 MAIN POINT: Jesus died on the cross to save people from sin, and He is alive. KEY PASSAGE: Romans
More information101 - Building Your Faith
The Carpenter Series 101 - Building Your Faith Lesson 1 - Introduction Building Our Lives to be More Like Jesus The Design What on earth am I here for? What s the reason for my existence? Revelation 4:11
More informationActs 5:17-42 Apostles Arrested by High Priest and Sadducees Freed by Angel Apostles arrested and imprisoned. Freed by Angel
Acts 5:17-42 Apostles Arrested by High Priest and Sadducees Freed by Angel Apostles arrested and imprisoned 17 Then the high priest rose up, and all those who were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees),
More informationUnit 6 Early Church--Lesson 5 NT6.5 Early Church Faces Trouble
1 Unit 6 Early Church--Lesson 5 NT6.5 Early Church Faces Trouble Scripture: Acts 4: 1-37; Acts 5: 14-25 Lesson Goal: From the very beginning the early church leaders faced trouble. Peter and John were
More informationIs Jesus the Only Way to God? Acts 4:1-12 James C. Denison, Ph.D.
Date: 2012-02-12 Title: Is Jesus the Only Way to God? Scripture: Acts 4:1-12 Topic: Salvation Series: Tough Questions from the Book of Acts Venue: Green Acres Baptist Church, Tyler, TX Is Jesus the Only
More informationHow to Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive
How to Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive Acts 21:27 23:11 Emmanuel Baptist Church February 26, 2017 1. Evaluate: See the situation for what it is. Acts 21:27 36 (ESV) - When the seven days
More informationBellaire Community UMC Resurrection Sunday April 1, 2018 Eric Falker Page 1. Resurrection Sunday. Series Love Leads the Way, part 3
Eric Falker Page 1 Mark 16:1-8 Resurrection Sunday Series Love Leads the Way, part 3 Happy Easter! I am so glad you are here this morning to celebrate the Resurrection. If you are here for the first time
More information4 Now as they spoke to the people, the priests, the captain of the. Sadducees: Pre-resurrection opposition was from the Pharisees.
Acts 4:1-22 Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors. P a g e 1 Hughes summarizes First, there had been the 120 in the Upper Room, then the wind of the Spirit, then flames dancing above the Twelve, then
More informationEaster Devotional Guide
Easter Devotional Guide March 25, 2018 level of biblical learning: church The Triumphant Entry by Shelly Harris, Content Editor, Explore the Bible: Kids Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem. As He came to
More informationHIGHLIGHT: 1 Acts 4:1-37 (NLT)
H HIGHLIGHT: 1 Acts 4:1-37 (NLT) LEADER: Below are excerpts from the overall passage for use with the APPLICATION and RESPOND. It will be beneficial for the group to read the whole passage to understand
More informationLuke 19:28-44 Palm Sunday
Luke 19:28-44 Palm Sunday Parkdale Grace Fellowship Sunday AM, April 13, 2014 Palm Sunday is the name given to commemorate the event that we have described for us in our text this morning. It commemorates
More informationHELP! My Distress, His Refuge Psalm 25:16-22
HELP! My Distress, His Refuge Psalm 25:16-22 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, May 20, 2018 HELP! My Distress, His Refuge Psalm 25:16-22 On average, 1,200 tornadoes touch down in
More informationBreaking His Heart Ephesians 4:30
Breaking His Heart Ephesians 4:30 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, March 19, 2017 BREAKING HIS HEART Ephesians 4:30 The Spirit-filled life is like wind in your sails. As the wind
More informationThe Spirit Acts 2 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, August 26, 2018
The Spirit Acts 2 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson, August 26, 2018 THE SPIRIT 2:1-21 Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for, to be overcome by Your presence, Lord. 1 Holy Spirit,
More informationDon t let the stone stop you! James 5:7-11; Matthew 16:21-27, 28:1-10 & 16-20; Romans 10:8-13; 2 Corinthians 5:17
James 5:7-11; Matthew 16:21-27, 28:1-10 & 16-20; Romans 10:8-13; 2 Corinthians 5:17 James 5:7-11 (NET Bible) 7 So be patient, brothers and sisters, until the Lord s return. Think of how the farmer waits
More informationPeter Heals the Lame Man Acts 3-4
Peter Heals the Lame Man Acts 3-4 God s Hand in Our Lives New Testament Peter Heals Lame Man - Level 2 3/27/04 One day Peter and John went up to the temple for prayer. At the temple gate, called Beautiful,
More informationREDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE
SESSION 5 REDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE The Point God can redeem us from even our worst failures. The Bible Meets Life What does a devastating failure look like? Sportscasters might mention the Buffalo
More informationJesus Crucifixion and Resurrection
EASTER Session 3 Use Week of: Jesus Crucifixion and Resurrection BIBLE PASSAGE: Matthew 26:36 28:10; John 18:1 20:18 MAIN POINT: Jesus died on the cross to save people from sin, and He is alive. KEY PASSAGE:
More informationJesus People Complete What Is Lacking One Thessalonians 3:1-13
Jesus People Complete What Is Lacking One Thessalonians 3:1-13 The Church at Canyon Creek, Austin, Texas Monty Watson October 22, 2017 JESUS PEOPLE COMPLETE WHAT IS LACKING One Thessalonians 3:1-13 Weddings
More informationVerses on Ten Topics To Get You Started
Verses on Ten Topics To Get You Started Assurance of Salvation 1 John :11-13, John 10:28-29 Holy Spirit Ephesians :, 1 Corinthians :19-, Galatians :-23 Lordship of Christ Luke :4, Luke 9:23, 2 Corinthians
More informationb. The task they faced was hard and difficult. e. For the nation of Israel today these are still perilous times.
A POSITIVE CHURCH IN A DARK WORLD Nehemiah 12:43 I. INTRODUCTION- a. The people of Israel who had returned from captivity to rebuild the land of Israel were living in perilous times. b. The task they faced
More informationEaster Devotional Guide
Easter Devotional Guide DAY 1: APRIL 9, 2017 LEARNING: JESUS The Triumphal Entry Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem. As He came to the Mount of Olives outside of a town called Bethany, He gave a very special
More informationTo This End Was I Born
To This End Was I Born Lesson 26 Matthew 26:47 27:66; Mark 14:43 15:39; Luke 22:47 23:56; John 18 19 Purpose To help class members feel the Savior s love for them and increase their love for him and their
More informationThe Price Is Paid Text: Selected Scriptures Series: The Blood of Christ (#2) Lyle L. Wahl March 22, 2015
The Price Is Paid Text: Selected Scriptures Series: The Blood of Christ (#2) Lyle L. Wahl March 22, 2015 Theme: The Blood of Christ provides redemption. Introduction Last week we began looking forward
More informationREDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE
SESSION 5 REDEEMED FROM DEVASTATING FAILURE What s one of your favorite comeback stories? QUESTION #1 #BSFLbeauty BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE 99 THE POINT God can redeem us from even our worst failures. THE
More informationbegan with the burden and prayer of one man
When God Moves 3 As we survey some of the specifically identified powerful movements of God among His people as recorded in scripture, we have discovered some things common to most if not all great movements
More informationTHE TWO GREATEST EVENTS IN HUMAN HISTORY
This is My Bible I am what it says I am, I have what it says I have, I can do what it says I can do. Today I ll be taught the Word of God. I boldly confess my mind is alert, my heart is receptive, I ll
More information"The Lamb of God Goes Willingly" Luke 13:31-35 March 7, Lent C Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls
"The Lamb of God Goes Willingly" Luke 13:31-35 March 7, 2004 2 Lent C Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Boise, Idaho Pastor Tim Pauls I. The Third Day Your antennas should be twitching when the Pharisees are
More information3/22/2015 The Resurrection 1
"The Resurrection" The Christian faith rests on the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. Hello, I m Phil Sanders; and this is a Bible study, In Search of the Lord s Way. Did Jesus really rise from the
More informationEaster Devotional Guide
Easter Devotional Guide DAY 1: APRIL 9, 2017 LEARNING: JESUS The Triumphal Entry Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem. As He came to the Mount of Olives outside of a town called Bethany, He gave a very special
More informationDevotional. Made to Count Weekend. Contact Us Dudley Shoals Rd Granite Falls, NC 28630
Made to Count Weekend Contact Us 1882 Dudley Shoals Rd Granite Falls, NC 28630 Phone: 828-396-7300 Email: pastorgwest@gmail.com Web: www.dudleyshoalsbc.com Devotional Table of Contents Day God prepared
More informationIntroduction. What if Easter is really just the world s biggest April Fool s Day joke?
THE FOOLISHNESS OF THE CROSS. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church April 1, 2018, 10:30 AM Scripture Texts: I Corinthians 1:18-25 Introduction. What if Easter is really just the world
More informationTHE SPIRIT-FILLED CHURCH, part 2 By Rev. Will Nelken
THE SPIRIT-FILLED CHURCH, part 2 By Rev. Will Nelken Presented at Trinity Community Church, San Rafael, California, on Sunday, July 2, 2006 When we were last together, I spoke to you about the character
More informationOur Progress Final engineering City approvals Construction financing Thankful for a faithful body
Our Progress Final engineering City approvals Construction financing Thankful for a faithful body Visit FELLOWSHIPCONWAY.ORG/GENERATIONS for more information. Paul s Connection with the Galatian Churches
More informationEASTER DEVOTIONAL GUIDE. Kids
EASTER DEVOTIONAL GUIDE Kids DAY 1: MARCH 20, 2016 LEVEL OF BIBLICAL LEARNING: JESUS THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY Jesus was traveling to Jerusalem. As He came to the Mount of Olives outside of a town called Bethany,
More informationHe Has Risen! Luke 24:1-10
April 5, 2015 He Has Risen! Luke 24:1-10 INTRODUCTION: What a wonderful day this is, as all over the world people are celebrating the resurrection of Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah, the King of Kings
More informationJesus Crucifixion Lesson 1.20
Jesus Crucifixion Lesson 1.20 Jesus' crucifixion was an act of God. Startling? Definitely. The incredible demonstrations of God's love are always startling. Please read Acts 2:22-41 before starting GraspingGod.com's
More information22 April First Lesson Acts 4:8-12
22 April 2012 First Lesson Acts 4:8-12 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to
More information