The Fatal Flaw In Denominationalism
|
|
- Osborn Dorsey
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 The Fatal Flaw In Denominationalism Could belonging to a denomination undermine your effectiveness for the Kingdom of God? The short answer is most definitely yes, and in a few moments, I will share with you the fatal flaw which dooms every denomination if they re not careful. BTW, this doesn t just apply to formal denominations but any informal association or fellowship of churches. Full disclosure: after becoming born again, I never belonged to a denomination. I came to Christ through a coffee house ministry that grew into a church and ultimately into an association of churches, but by definition, I have always been nondenominational. There are several unrelated reasons for this, and if you d like, I share in detail about this in my first book. To clarify, I am not anti-denominational. It is just not the way God led me personally. Belonging to a denomination has some great benefits. First, you gain access to resources. Belonging to a denomination gives you access to regional or national conferences, financial benefits such as a regular paycheck, medical insurance, a retirement plan and in some cases, lowcost loans for building projects. You also have a certain degree of oversight that helps to ensure continuity if the pastor is injured, passes away or experiences some dramatic moral failure. The denomination is there to minimize the damage to an individual church in the event of a crisis. Ideally, a denomination creates a fellowship of like-minded leaders who potentially care for each other, though that is not always the case. Denominations make it easier to start new churches and train new leaders, as many of them have seminaries or Bible schools designed to prepare new leaders. In exchange, belonging to a denomination typically requires a financial commitment of some kind as a certain percentage of the yearly offerings
2 goes to headquarters to provide all these benefits. Depending on the organization, there are other requirements, but that is not the focus today. What I am about to share also applies to many non-denominational churches that nevertheless are associated with some fellowship. Some nondenominational churches link together for mutual benefit and may or may not gain access to some of the benefits of the more organized denomination. In other cases, some nondenominational churches grow to the point of planting satellite churches in several cities and function as their minidenomination in no small degree. They also have a potentially fatal flaw that can undermine their effectiveness in ministry, and it is high time I reveal that to you now. The fatal flaw in all denominations and all associations formal or informal is arrogance. Wow, that was a little too easy. Big build up and no big deal. Well, hear me out. Denominations form as a response hopefully to any move of the Holy Spirit. Revival brings many people into the kingdom of God, and this same move impacts people in different cities, states, and nations. If you look at Martin Luther, Jonathan Edwards, Charles Wesley, or Azuza Street revival, denominations formed in response to a genuine move of God. More recently, meaning in the past 50 years, Calvary Chapel, Vineyard, and others created churches with a specific culture. If I go to a Vineyard church in Paducah Kentucky, I do not anticipate that anyone will be dressed in a suit and tie singing from a hymnal. Like McDonald's, you know that if you attend a local expression of that denomination, certain attributes will always be constant. There is absolute security in that. The inherent weakness in all associations and denominations as I mentioned a moment ago is arrogance. Arrogance is not a certainty, but a danger. What do I mean?
3 If you draw all your teaching, fellowship, resources, ideas, and even your mannerisms from one place, your world-view is governed by the denomination instead of by Christ. You look, act and react like other members of that denomination, rather than Christ. Now I realize that this doesn t seem significant yet, but I promise you that it will if you re patient. In general, I can tell what denomination any minister belongs to within about 60 seconds. As I said, I am a nondenominational pastor, and that may give me some advantage here. Just by looking at the hairstyle, manner of dress, way of speaking or praying, and general attitude, I can tell what denomination you call home. Why is that? You manifest specific characteristics that are affected by those you identify with. Once again, nothing intrinsically evil about that except when your standard, your way, your point of view trumps everyone else. Therein lies the arrogance. If you have followed this podcast, you have heard me say from time to time that your church is not the only game in town. If God genuinely called you, and I assume He did, then you are automatically a part of what He is doing in your city or region. It only makes sense that you link up in some way with other born-again pastors and start to fellowship. As simple as this sounds, it is almost nonexistent throughout the world. The typical model is that pastors build their church and ignore all other churches and leaders in their community. I go more into depth about this in episode 101 so that I won t belabor the point. Arrogance makes us believe that our denomination is superior to all others. Pride makes us think that we don t need other pastors or leaders from other expressions of the body of Christ. Ego makes us think that our doctrine or culture or way of doing things surpasses all others. I want to encourage you today to submit yourself to a reality check. If all your friends are members of your denomination, something is wrong. If you only engage in denominationally organized events during the year,
4 something is wrong. If you look down on other church leaders because of the way they dress, worship and live out their faith, something is wrong. In a word, you are perhaps unknowingly living out the fatal flaw of arrogance. Once again, there are lots of benefits of belonging to a denomination or an association of churches, but if your life is exclusively wrapped up in building your denomination or church rather than the Kingdom of God, you re off track with heaven. God does not view your denomination as superior. Far from it. As leaders, we often preach against the folly of the scribes and Pharisees who opposed Jesus. It is interesting to note that Jesus warned his disciples in Matthew 16:6 to be on guard against receiving the leaven or yeast of the Pharisees. What is that? In a word, arrogance. They believed that their culture, their opinions, their theology, and their lifestyle were the best and only way to serve God. They concluded that their doctrinal point of view surpassed all others. They thought that the only true believers were those associated with them. Imagine their disbelief when Jesus told them that local prostitutes and non-church going tax collectors would get into heaven while they would be excluded. The arrogance exhibited by the scribes and Pharisees invited Jesus strongest punishment in Matthew 23. He identified them as the blind leading the blind. As ministers of the gospel, I implore you to hear what I am saying. I see a lot of arrogance in the Christian community at large and much of it emanates from leaders. Paul instructed Timothy to be an example of humility, love, hospitality, and kindness. I hope you re seeing the distinction of what I am sharing with you today. Denominations, adequately utilized can be a great blessing to any minister. Any association or fellowship of churches can have its benefit but be on guard against arrogance and exclusivity.
5 Your denomination, whatever it is does not have the full picture of the body of Christ. Some groups would never consciously say this but think they are the one place where the Holy Spirit is most honored. Others think that they are the most doctrinally pure. Still, others are proud of their rules, dress codes or devotion to various traditions. All this is Pharisaical arrogance. You and I need other pastors and leaders in our circle of friends. Iron can t sharpen iron by meeting once a year for a prayer breakfast. That isn t biblical fellowship. During these podcasts, I have repeatedly reminded us that more than 1500 pastors leave the ministry every year. The principal reasons are lack of money, loneliness and family problems. Pastors are lonely people, even though they belong to denominations. How is that possible? Often, we have allowed our institutions to replace genuine relationships and honest dialogue. That needs to change. I Corinthians chapter 12 is not only the first chapter of the New Testament to introduce and discuss spiritual gifts. It is also where Paul lays out how the body of Christ is designed to function. He challenges the Corinthian church who had become arrogant in many of their practices, thinking that their superior knowledge made them better than others. Paul reminds them that knowledge puffs up and love builds up. He speaks about Christ s church by looking at the human body in all of its diversity and function. Feet don t do what hands do. Ears are not eyes etc. Within that discussion, Paul invites these believers to celebrate their differences instead of attacking people who don t conform to their way of thinking. This doesn t merely apply to members of a specific church, but of all the expressions of the body of Christ in a city or region. Our churches are different from each other. Our practices vary. Our emphases differ and so forth. It is high time we stop trying to fix people to be like us and celebrate their different ways of worshipping and serving God.
6 When we humble ourselves to do that, scriptures tells us in Psalms that the oil of the Holy Spirit begins to flow. Behold how good and how pleasant it is for the brethren to dwell together in unity is how the KJV interprets Psalm 133. It is like precious oil, a symbol of the Holy Spirit. I believe that one reason many pastors are frustrated in ministry irrespective of the result is this unhealthy practice to only fellowship with those in your denomination or affiliation. As I said earlier, if you re careful, it makes you a very arrogant fellow. God does not give grace to the arrogant. Only to the humble. Consider what I say today and pray about your relationships with other spiritual leaders in your town, city or region. If it is all about you, Satan has got you out on a branch, and he is holding the saw. Thank you once again for listening in. As always, I end with a quote especially for you. This one is from business leader Harvey MacKay who said: By my count, more business leaders have failed and derailed because of arrogance than any other character flaw.
The Meaning of Covenant Church Membership an Introduction
The Meaning of Covenant Church Membership an Introduction INTRODUCTION To be a member of a Christian church is to live as a New Testament Christian. We live in a time when too many are saying that church
More informationSERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 30 October 24, 2010
SERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 30 October 24, 2010 Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22 Psalm 84: 1-7 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 Luke 18:9-14 Brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God the
More informationJohn s Gospel, Jesus Is the Son of God: 36. "Jesus is the Gate for the Sheep" John 10:1 10
September 4, 2016 Pastor Ken Hepner John s Gospel, Jesus Is the Son of God: 36. "Jesus is the Gate for the Sheep" John 10:1 10 Introduction: We are studying the Gospel of John together. It's important
More informationThe Spirit s Ministry in Jesus Absence John 16:5-11
The Spirit s Ministry in Jesus Absence John 16:5-11 Mark Batterson wrote a book about following the promptings of the Holy Spirit. The title of his book sounds a little strange to our ears. He entitled
More informationThe Ministry of Restoration 2 Corinthians 2:6-8 Part 2
Sermon Transcript The Ministry of Restoration 2 Corinthians 2:6-8 Part 2 The Bible teaches us that every person born into this world is born spiritually dead as a result of the sin of Adam. This condition
More informationRomans Humility Over Arrogance November 08, 2015
Romans Humility Over Arrogance November 08, 2015 I. Another reason for Gentile believers to be humble about being saved A. Romans 11:25-32... For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery
More informationChildlike Humility. Matthew 18:1-5. Series: Like a Child
Series: Like a Child Childlike Humility Matthew 18:1-5 This morning as we open God s Word, we are beginning a new sermon series that we will be focusing on for the next month. Father s Day is the perfect
More informationSpiritual Au t h o r i t y
Dr. Steve McEvoy The subject of authority in the Church can be a very confusing issue. Unless we have studied this and been taught by the Word of God, we will naturally and even unknowingly form our understanding
More informationLesson 9: Fellowship
Introduction Lesson 9: Fellowship Bobby lived with his family in Holland. He was still a child when his parents became Adventists. But he wasn t happy about it. Bobby hated going to church. He would much
More informationConfirmation Ministry Handbook
Confirmation Ministry Handbook August 2017 Transforming Lives, Cultivating Communities, by Making More and Better Disciples for Jesus Christ. Trinity Lutheran Ministries 122 W. Wesley St.. Jackson, MI
More informationA Course In Miracle Workbook For Dummies
A Course In Miracle Workbook For Dummies LESSON 71 Only God's plan for salvation will work. W-71.1. You may not realize that the ego has set up a plan for salvation in opposition to God's plan for salvation.
More informationAll who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12)
Scripture Lessons: Matthew 23:1-12 Romans 2:1-8 REFORMATION -- A CALL TO HUMILITY (10/27/13) All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted. (Matthew 23:12) This
More informationAnalysis of 2 CORINTHIANS
Analysis of 2 CORINTHIANS "PAUL'S DEFENSE OF HIS APOSTOLIC MINISTRY" Now some have become arrogant, as though I were not coming to you. {19} But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall
More informationWeekly Devotional A ministry of Chapel Hill chapelhillpc.org. WEEK 5 This devotional pairs with Mark 2:23-3:6 and the sermon preached on March
Weekly Devotional A ministry of Chapel Hill chapelhillpc.org WEEK 5 This devotional pairs with Mark 2:23-3:6 and the sermon preached on March 23-24. Written by Lilly Davis Grew up at Chapel Hill. Currently
More informationIs Good Self-Esteem Bad?
Is Good Self-Esteem Bad? The word esteem originates from a Latin word meaning estimate. Self-esteem is simply the value you place on yourself, which results directly from the thoughts, feelings, and beliefs
More informationWhen Christians are UnChristian. NOTE: This sermon is mainly a summary of the ideas in the book by Adam Hamilton called When Christians get it Wrong
Rev. Joan Pell Byron United Methodist Church Sermon: 01/04/15 Series: When Christians Get It Wrong Scripture: Luke 15:1-2, Matthew 2:, 2-26 When Christians are UnChristian NOTE: This sermon is mainly a
More informationPhilippians, Chapter Four, Lesson One
Philippians, Chapter Four, Lesson One LIVING IN HARMONY Philippians 4:1-7 STIMULATE ** As we began our study together last week, we noted the single most effective method of teaching; that which also proved
More informationFace the Radical Nature of Discipleship. Further Instructions on Genuine Discipleship. Matthew 8: Matthew 8:16 22
FOCAL TEXT Matthew 8:18 22 BACKGROUND Matthew 8:16 22 MAIN IDEA Jesus demands that his disciples place him over the most legitimate and precious of human concerns, even shelter and family, as well as cultural
More informationBelieve: Why Study God s Word? 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Believe: Why Study God s Word? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 To be a Christian, among other things, means that we are to be as Christ. We are to think like Christ, act like Christ, and be like Christ. That s what
More informationSECOND THEMATIC: ANALOG INTELLIGENCE OVERRIDES HUMAN LOCAL CONTEXT
A STUDY OF FIRST PETER: THE RHETORICAL UNIVERSE BY J. MICHAEL STRAWN SECOND THEMATIC: ANALOG INTELLIGENCE OVERRIDES HUMAN LOCAL CONTEXT INTRODUCTION AND TERMINOLOGY: Triadic structure, most obvious in
More informationREASONS TO REJOICE. Your Words were found and I ate them, and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 PROVERBS
REASONS TO REJOICE Your Words were found and I ate them, and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. Jeremiah 15:16 PROVERBS LESSON 17 This week we ll be taking a look at chapter 21 through
More informationPaul, An Apostle For Christ, Teaches Boldly To A Church Filled with Knowledge, Goodness, And Purity
Paul, An Apostle For Christ, Teaches Boldly To A Church Filled with Knowledge, Goodness, And Purity A famous Methodist evangelist named Peter Cartwright was known for his uncompromising preaching. However,
More informationQ&A 1001 NEW WORSHIPING COMMUNITIES
Q&A 1001 NEW WORSHIPING COMMUNITIES Q1. What is a New Worshiping Community (NWC)? A1. New Worshiping Community (NWC) is a term used for a group of individuals who worship together or otherwise share Christian
More informationNew Year s Message 2016
New Year s Message 2016 A New Year s Challenge (1/3/16) This morning we stand at the beginning of a new year. What makes a new year special is the fact that it s new! Every New Year brings with it new
More informationFOUNDATIONS: THE HOLY SPIRIT Lesson #1
FOUNDATIONS: THE HOLY SPIRIT Lesson #1 Intro. Why this class is so important. 1. The importance of the Holy Spirit s presence and influence in our lives is impossible to over emphasize a. We need to know
More informationFamily Bulletin
Family Bulletin - 2019 - (Lent Sunday Reflections) Dear Pastors, To complement the great work already happening in your parish, Development and Peace Caritas Canada is pleased to provide these Family Reflection
More informationSalvation as Healing. Jonathan Gallagher
Salvation as Healing Jonathan Gallagher Current concepts of salvation are very dependent upon legal images, primarily those of western justice. The courtroom scene is invoked to represent the way in which
More informationPersonal Transformation #2: Hatred of Sin & Transformation Of The Mind
Personal Transformation #2: Hatred of Sin & Transformation Of The Mind GENERAL PURPOSE The Process of Change is more readily embraced when we understand how truly dreadful sinful attitudes and behaviors
More informationBoast in the Lord! Psalm 34:2 My soul will make its boast in the LORD; the humble will hear it and rejoice.
Boast in the Lord! Psalm 34:2 My soul will make its boast in the LORD; the humble will hear it and rejoice. 8-13-2017 The dictionary describes pride as proper respect for one s own dignity and worth. As
More informationA Healthy Church. Romans 12:3-8
A Healthy Church Romans 12:3-8 I believe many in the Church love to quote the beginning of Prov. 29:18 in an abnegation (the act of renouncing or rejecting something) of personal responsibility. Proverbs
More informationSTALKING THE DARKNESS
STALKING THE DARKNESS 10 SIGNS OF A NOBLE CITY UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF KINGDOM: 1) The city is safe; there is a sense of well-being. 2) The city is prospering; businesses are thriving, the economy is growing,
More informationMost of you maybe familiar with a story of a young man who was. convinced that he was called to preach. But he was totally unsuited for the
A CHARGE TO KEEP: GO PREACH CHRIST Rev. Dr. Wesley S. K. Daniel Iowa Annual Conference June 6, 2009 II Corinthians 4:3-6 Ephesians 2:8-10 Most of you maybe familiar with a story of a young man who was
More informationWhat Do Adventists Believe?
What Do Adventists Believe? Seventh-day Adventists and Health In 1866, Adventist pioneers established Western Health Reform Institute, the church s first medical institution. Their Battle Creek, Michigan,
More informationMatthew 21: Introduction
Matthew 21:28-32 Introduction It s Tuesday; only two days after Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem, and only three days before His crucifixion. Jesus is in the temple, having just been challenged by the
More informationAn Appearance of Wisdom
Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.
More informationValley Bible Church - Sermon Transcript. Ungodliness Prophesied Jude 14-19
Valley Bible Church - Sermon Transcript Ungodliness Prophesied Jude 14-19 As we turn to our verses today, I want to remind you that the book of Jude has one major theme, and that is apostasy. Verses 14-19
More information1 Timothy 6:12-16 (ESV) 12
1 Timothy 6:12-16 (ESV) 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 I
More informationWe Believe in God. Study Guide WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT GOD LESSON ONE. We Believe in God by Third Millennium Ministries
1 Study Guide LESSON ONE WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT GOD For videos, manuscripts, and other Lesson resources, 1: What We visit Know Third About Millennium God Ministries at thirdmill.org. 2 CONTENTS HOW TO USE
More informationAdvantages of Pastoral Elderships
Advantages of Pastoral Elderships by David A. Huston This paper is presented to review the advantages a pastoral eldership will bring to any established local assembly. THERE ARE AT LEAST FIVE SIGNIFICANT
More informationBest Wishes and Happy Holidays!
December 13, 2018 Best Wishes and Happy Holidays! The Lux Center wishes all of our friends and colleagues a very happy holiday season. May the 2019 New Year bring you and your loved ones blessings of good
More informationRetreat based on 1 Corinthians 13 Leader s opening remarks:
Retreat based on 1 Corinthians 13 Leader s opening remarks: Welcome: Arrange in small groups: Logistics of day: We will be hearing some short talks and have some discussion and prayer time in your small
More informationMicah Network Integral Mission Initiative
RE CATEGORY RE TITLE RE NUMBER and Development Programme, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa Plenary address: Micah Africa Regional Conference, September 20 23, 2004 The task of this paper is to
More informationJESUS, THE ETERNAL GOD (JOHN 8: 48-59) Jesus is God series-part 2
JESUS, THE ETERNAL GOD (JOHN 8: 48-59) Jesus is God series-part 2 We want to continue studying the doctrines concerning the person and identity of Jesus Christ by looking at some of the great texts of
More informationSession 7 - Prayer MEMBERSHIP TRAINING COURSE
Session 7 - Prayer One of the four major areas of service in CMA is prayer. Prayer directly affects CMA s ability to function in the other major areas of: evangelism, discipleship, and fellowship. Only
More informationDO NOT STOP UNTIL YOU HAVE READ THIS SECTION COMPLETELY THROUGH!
FOLLOWERS OF JESUS CHRIST MINISTRIES P. O. Box 4174 - Evansville, IN 47724-4174 - Phone or Fax 812-477-6338 Web Site: www.ritualabusefree.org E-mail: fojcministries@cs.com THE ULTIMATE TRUTH What you are
More informationJesus Trial and Peter s Denials John 18:12-27 Part Two
Sermon Transcript Jesus Trial and Peter s Denials John 18:12-27 Part Two People putting themselves in a position to sin is a grievous thing, but it is particularly grievous when genuine and true born-again
More informationHAVE A HUMBLE HEART. Romans 2:17-3:8 The Sin of Self-Righteousness
HAVE A HUMBLE HEART Romans 2:17-3:8 The Sin of Self-Righteousness INTRODUCTION It would be an understatement to say that every believer is plagued by this attitude [self-righteousness]. It is in our sin
More informationHOSPITALITY: HOW ORDINARY PEOPLE CAN LIVE ON MISSION
164 HOSPITALITY: HOW ORDINARY PEOPLE CAN LIVE ON MISSION Volunteers needed. I d be willing to serve, but I don t know what I could do. Living on mission? That s something full-time missionaries do but
More information2007 by Carmen Menefee. All rights reserved. 2nd Printing Published by Redemption Press, PO Box 427, Enumclaw, WA
REDEMPTION PRESS 2007 by Carmen Menefee. All rights reserved. 2nd Printing 2015. Published by Redemption Press, PO Box 427, Enumclaw, WA 98022. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in
More informationPOSTMODERN EVANGELISM TRAINING
POSTMODERN EVANGELISM TRAINING THE FIRST STEP IN EVANGELISM IS DEVELOPING INTIMACY WITH GOD A. It is easy to get sidetracked in the Christian life. 1. We end up focusing on the nonessentials What are those
More informationSimply Jesus. The Life and Ministry of God s Son. Inductive: Lesson 4
Simply Jesus The Life and Ministry of God s Son Inductive: Lesson 4 Introduction During the second year of Jesus ministry, His popularity among the people grew along with His following, and so too the
More informationNot I, But Christ. Copyright 2011 Sylvia Pearce. All rights reserved
I am crucified with Christ, yet I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me, and the life I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God who loves me and gave His life for me (Galatians 2:20).
More informationDaniel S. Teefey Riverside Covenant Church November 22, 2009 Matthew 18: Them Fightin Words. Read Matthew 18:15 22.
Daniel S. Teefey Riverside Covenant Church November 22, 2009 Matthew 18: 15 22 Them Fightin Words Read Matthew 18:15 22. So this week has been an interesting week. I believe that God changes us. And when
More informationAM I TRULY FOLLOWING JESUS? Bible Study
AM I TRULY FOLLOWING JESUS? Bible Study Am I Truly Following Jesus? Self-Evaluation This is a follow-up Bible study for the guided self-evaluation, Am I Truly Following Jesus? which is included on pages
More informationDiscussion Questions - Week 1
Discussion Questions - Week 1 1. What is your reaction to the statement, It is not about you? What do you think and feel about that statement? 2. Why do we find it difficult to start with God rather than
More informationWeekly Devotional A ministry of Chapel Hill chapelhillpc.org
Weekly Devotional A ministry of Chapel Hill chapelhillpc.org Written by Lilly Davis Grew up at Chapel Hill. Currently working towards a Master of Divinity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Loves
More informationIntroduction. Keeping God s Perspective For Your Ministry.
How To Be A Good And Faithful Servant (Part 3) Text: Romans 15:14-33 Series: Romans [#21] Lyle L. Wahl April 11, 2010 Theme: Good And Faithful Servants Follow God s Game Plan. Introduction We have almost
More informationGOD S HOPE FOR TROUBLED CHURCHES. The Law of Liberty Part I: Christian Liberty Is Marked by Sacrificial Love for the Saints. I Corinthians 8:1-9:18
GOD S HOPE FOR TROUBLED CHURCHES The Law of Liberty Part I: Christian Liberty Is Marked by Sacrificial Love for the Saints I. INTRODUCTION I Corinthians 8:1-9:18 a. Opener Is all truth relative? i. Over
More informationWealth And The Kingdom Of Heaven Matthew 19:16-30
Wealth And The Kingdom Of Heaven Matthew 19:16-30 We now focus on a section of the Gospel that deals with the question of wealth in relation to the kingdom of heaven. The passage includes a confrontation
More informationHOW TO STOP SPIRITUAL DUMPSTER DIVING (AND FIVE WAYS TO AVOID IT)
HOW TO STOP SPIRITUAL DUMPSTER DIVING (AND FIVE WAYS TO AVOID IT) INTRODUCTION In Philippians 3:7-8 the Apostle Paul said But whatever things were gain to me, those things I have counted as loss for the
More informationRemember Whose You Are
Remember Whose You Are Remember Whose You Are Michael J. NIelsen / General Go and Be Reconciled / Baptism; Identifying with Christ; Reconciliation; New Person / 2 Corinthians 5:16 21 2 Corinthians English
More informationINTRODUCTION: I have a great need for Christ; I have a great Christ for my need. Charles Spurgeon
CARDIO: TRANSFORMED HEARTS, RENEWED MINDS, ALIGNED LIVES 2 CORINTHIANS 3:18 March 16, 2014 INTRODUCTION: I have a great need for Christ; I have a great Christ for my need. Charles Spurgeon Jesus can meet
More informationLeaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday.
Leader DEVOTIONAL Leaders: this is just for you! Read ahead of time to engage with the Bible story on an adult level and prepare your heart to teach on Sunday. Jesus was making His way to Jerusalem the
More informationTo give you a clear understanding of how the body of Christ operates as a family unit.
OTHER CHRISTIANS You entered into God s family through a SPIRITUAL birth when you trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior. You now have a spiritual family with many brothers and sisters who are saved through
More informationDRAW NIGH TO GOD JAMES 4:1-7
DRAW NIGH TO GOD JAMES 4:1-7 Text: James 4:8 James 4:8 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Introduction: We have
More informationDo Not Judge. (Matthew 7:1, 2)
Do Not Judge (Matthew 7:1, 2) n our study of the Sermon on the Mount, we have come to Matthew 7. This chapter I touches on a variety of subjects. As a result, some think the chapter is a collection of
More informationRomans Okay, I was guilty of that one. Two of my atheist friends converted in grad school and wow, they studied the Bible like a boss.
Romans 2-3 1. The New Paul perspective (Dunn, Sanders, Wright, and others) holds that the Jews of Paul s day weren t concerned to perform righteous acts in order to be saved. For New Paul, the Jews already
More informationDeveloping Team Leadership
Developing Team Leadership Growing Christian Leaders Series Manual 10 by Duane L. Anderson Developing Team Leadership Growing Christian Leaders Series Manual 10 Scripture taken from the New King James
More informationThe Hope Of Help. A Sermon by Rev. Kurt H. Asplundh
The Hope Of Help A Sermon by Rev. Kurt H. Asplundh "What ails you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is" (Genesis 21:17). It is hard to imagine a more piteous scene: a woman
More informationThe works of Adam and all Pharisees, Acquiring knowledge of good and evil with judging and condemning is the conclusion of the matter.
DO YOU KNOW THE WILL OF GOD WORKS WITH THE LOVE OF GOD? Jesus came to earth to destroy the works or sin Adam introduced to humanity and to destroy the works of the Pharisees that were continuing the works
More informationSTATEMENT FOR THE RECORD THE CHURCH ALLIANCE FOR THE MEMBER DAY HEARING TAX-RELATED PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE HEALTH CARE
STATEMENT FOR THE RECORD OF THE CHURCH ALLIANCE FOR THE MEMBER DAY HEARING ON TAX-RELATED PROPOSALS TO IMPROVE HEALTH CARE BEFORE THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS SUBCOMMITTEE
More informationSESSION 2: WHAT HELPS CONGREGATIONS CONFRONT CHALLENGES IN MINISTRY?
A GUIDE FOR TALKING TOGETHER ABOUT SHARED MINISTRY SESSION 2: WHAT HELPS CONGREGATIONS CONFRONT CHALLENGES IN MINISTRY? DEVOTION Hymn: Blest Be the Tie That Binds (ELW 656) Blest be the tie that binds
More informationRoots 21- Days of Prayer
Roots 21- Days of Prayer You are about to start a 21- day journey into God s word through brief daily messages from the Rock Church. We ask that you take a minute each day to read over the Bible verses
More informationRelationships- WEEK 1: Love God, Love One Another
Relationships- WEEK 1: Love God, Love One Another Day 1 Look at the following scriptures Matthew 22:36-40 What do these two commands have in common? Jesus emphasizes the importance of relationships. Christianity
More informationUnity of Believers. This is a transcript of Jay Lockhart s Sermon September 14, 2014 at the Gilmer, Texas Civic Center.
Unity of Believers This is a transcript of Jay Lockhart s Sermon September 14, 2014 at the Gilmer, Texas Civic Center. Psalm 133 is one of a grouping of Psalms made up of 15 Psalms beginning with Psalm
More informationIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:1;14).
Introduction Basic to all Christian faith is the premise that God has revealed His will to us. The Lord has not left us in the dark concerning our sinful condition, our hope in Christ and our future in
More informationOn-Mission Class #10 Christ Proclamation Church; Sunday, June 10, 2018; Steve Thiel
I. Welcome Tonight s Goal Lecture and Discussion 1. Teach on the vision here at Christ Proclamation Church 2. Discuss Trevor Joy and Spence Shelton s book, The People of God Next Month We are taking off
More informationHow Do You Measure Success in Ministry?
How Do You Measure Success in Ministry? In my daily devotions recently, I was reading through Paul s letter to the Philippians when something I ve read dozens of times just smacked me in the face. You
More informationLesson 11. Jana Brackbill. Like a city that is broken into and without walls Is a man who has no control over his spirit.
Lesson 11 Striving to Live Sensibly in a Non-Sensible World Jana Brackbill Like a city that is broken into and without walls Is a man who has no control over his spirit. ~ Proverbs 25:28 How does the Bible
More informationNeeding Each Other, I Corinithians 12: Elgin, January 25, Jonathan Wilson
Needing Each Other, I Corinithians 12:12-31 Elgin, January 25, 2015 Jonathan Wilson Introduction As we continue to talk about the Holy Spirit we are moving forward from describing the event of when He
More informationMy Experience As a Pentecostal.
Welcome to: - Bible House of Grace. God, through His Son Jesus, provides eternal grace for our failures and human limitations. My Experience As a Pentecostal. (2013) The Bible not only reveals God s eternal
More information2 Peter 1 When Knowledge Matters
2 Peter 1 When Knowledge Matters Introduction Whereas 1 Peter is mainly focused on dealing with Satan s work personified as a dragon who comes to openly persecute believers, 2 Peter focuses on the personification
More informationRELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE IN SCHOOLS
Administrative RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL DAYS OF SIGNIFICANCE IN SCHOOLS Responsibility: Legal References: Superintendent, Student Achievement & Well-Being Education Act, Reg. 298 (S.28,29); Ontario Human
More information10 Commandments = 10 for
10 Commandments = 10 for Ex. 20:7 Thou shalt not TAKE the Name of the Lord thy God in VAIN for the Lord will NOT hold him GUILTLESS that taketh his Name in VAIN. Ex. 20:7 Thou shalt not TAKE the Name of
More informationFOUNDATIONS: WHAT DOES LOVE LOOK LIKE? LESSON #6
FOUNDATIONS: WHAT DOES LOVE LOOK LIKE? LESSON #6 Intro. Tonight we're going to conclude our series on What Love Looks Like. 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (NKJV) 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels,
More information1. Simplicity, what does it mean? 2. Complicating the Simple Takes Great Effort. 3. The Devil s Interpretation of Simplicity
Simplicity Index 1. Simplicity, what does it mean? 2. Complicating the Simple Takes Great Effort 3. The Devil s Interpretation of Simplicity 4. Is Simplicity to Believe God in the Heart of man? 5. Success
More informationBook #7B Notes ( )
Book #7B Notes (2013-2014) To the reader These notes are not writing, as such. For many years, I have kept a notebook by my bed, and made entries in those notebooks when I felt that God had showed me something
More informationJESUS AND CAESAR. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church September 22, 2013, 10:30AM. Scripture Texts: Mark 12:13-17
JESUS AND CAESAR. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church September 22, 2013, 10:30AM Scripture Texts: Mark 12:13-17 Introduction. Prayer: Holy Father, we need your help this morning. I
More informationWhat does it mean to redeem someone? To redeem someone means to pay a ransom price to set them free.
1 Peter 1:18-19 (NIV) For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19 but with
More informationUNITY - A key to experiencing God's commanded blessing
UNITY - A key to experiencing God's commanded blessing King David wrote, Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. It is like the precious oil upon the head, Running
More informationWhat Does the Kingdom of God or of Heaven Refer To?
The Scripture What Does the Kingdom of God or of Heaven Refer To? By going through all of Matthew s uses of kingdom of heaven and the use of this term in Acts, we can learn much about what this phrase
More informationHonesty: The Foundation for Repentance and Humility
Honesty: The Foundation for Repentance and Humility by Father Alexis (Trader) Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is
More informationTeachings of Jesus Blessed Are the Merciful Matthew 5:7
Teachings of Jesus Blessed Are the Merciful Matthew 5:7 Introduction The beatitudes are the eight statements of blessing spoken by Jesus at the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew Chapter 5.
More informationJudge, Jury, and Executioner
Judge, Jury, and Executioner Mountain Life Church/Life Pack/June 24, 2012 Judge, Jury & Executioner Sermon Notes June 24, 2012 I. Do Not Judge A. What is unrighteous judging? 1. Putting someone else down
More informationSpiritual Gifts Assessment Traders Point Christian Church
Spiritual Gifts Assessment God has given every Christian at least one spiritual gift, and probably more. This questionnaire is designed to help you understand what your spiritual gifts are and how to use
More informationbut test the spirits...
but test the spirits... Introduction 1. There is a lot of value in testing things. A. What would our world be like without the testing of food or water? 1) Hoping we made it back to the house before the
More informationDiscuss ideas of what biblical leadership is and what biblical leaders do. Record ideas on board.
REDEEMER SMALL GROUP LEADERSHIP TRAINING Part II The Making of a Leader Discuss ideas of what biblical leadership is and what biblical leaders do. Record ideas on board. Biblical Leadership Biblical leadership
More informationBe Genuine, Show Grace, Be Humble. Further Instructions on Genuine Discipleship. Matthew 23:1 12. Matthew 23:1 36
FOCAL TEXT Matthew 23:1 12 BACKGROUND Matthew 23:1 36 MAIN IDEA Disciples of Jesus are to practice their faith with genuineness, grace, and humility. QUESTION TO EXPLORE Why do religious people sometimes
More informationLive By Jesus Interpretation of God s Will
FOCAL TEXT Matthew 5:17 48 BACKGROUND Matthew 5:17 48 MAIN IDEA Jesus instructs his disciples to live a life of complete goodness springing from a heart grounded in the character of God. QUESTION TO EXPLORE
More informationBLD WASHINGTON NEWSLETTER
BLD WASHINGTON NEWSLETTER Visit us at www.bldwashington.com Sept 29, 2017 VOL. 17 NO. 180 Praise and Worship Every Friday 8:30 p.m. Hess Auditorium Eucharistic Celebration every Bukas-Loob Sa Diyos (Open
More information