• Message: “Called to Lead: Serving with Humility, ” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Lesson Title “Called to Lead: Serving with Humility, Faithfulness, and Courage” Audience Recent college graduates and young adults beginning leadership roles in the church Main Scripture 1 Timothy 4:12 “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” Supporting Scriptures Mark 10:45 — Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. Joshua 1:9 — Be strong and courageous. 1 Peter 5:2–3 — Lead willingly, not for selfish gain, but as examples. Colossians 3:23 — Work heartily as serving the Lord. ________________________________________ 1. Introduction — Many young adults are stepping into leadership at an important stage of life. College may have prepared you with knowledge, discipline, and skills, but church leadership requires something deeper. Church leadership is not mainly about having a title. It is about having a servant’s heart. Some may feel excited. Others may feel nervous. Some may wonder, “Am I really ready?” That is a normal feeling. Many people God used in Scripture felt unprepared at first. Moses said, “I am not eloquent.” Jeremiah said, “I am too young.” Timothy needed encouragement from Paul. Joshua needed courage after Moses died. God does not call perfect people. He calls available people. ________________________________________ 2. Lesson Objective By the end of this lesson, students should understand that young church leaders are called to: 1. Lead by example 2. Serve with humility 3. Grow in spiritual maturity 4. Lead with courage and faithfulness ________________________________________ 3. Point One: Leadership Begins with Example — Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:12 Paul tells Timothy not to let anyone look down on him because he is young. But Paul does not tell Timothy to demand respect. He tells him to live in a way that earns trust. Paul says Timothy should be an example in: Word This means the way we speak. Young leaders must learn to speak with wisdom, kindness, truth, and self-control. Church leadership is damaged when leaders speak carelessly, gossip, complain, or criticize others harshly. A young leader should ask: “Do my words build people up or tear people down?” Conduct This means behavior and lifestyle. People watch leaders. They notice how we treat others, how we handle pressure, how we respond to correction, and how we live outside church meetings. Leadership is not only what happens on Sunday. It is also what happens when nobody is clapping. Love Church leadership must be motivated by love, not ego. Love helps us care for people who are difficult, lonely, immature, or different from us. Faith Young leaders must learn to trust God when results are slow, when people disagree, or when ministry feels difficult. Purity Purity includes moral purity, but also purity of motives. We should not lead for attention, praise, or control. Application Before young adults ask, “What position do I have?” they should ask, “What example am I setting?” Discussion Question What area is most difficult for young leaders today: words, conduct, love, faith, or purity? Why? ________________________________________ 4. Point Two: Christian Leadership Is Servant Leadership Scripture: Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve…” Jesus changed the meaning of leadership. In the world, leadership often means power, position, and recognition. In the kingdom of God, leadership means service, sacrifice, and humility. A church leader is not above the people. A church leader is among the people. Three Marks of Servant Leadership 1. A servant leader notices needs A servant leader does not wait to be asked for everything. They see the chairs need arranging. They see a visitor standing alone. They see a new believer who needs encouragement. Small acts of service reveal a large heart. 2. A servant leader is willing to do unseen work Many young leaders want meaningful ministry, but meaningful ministry often begins with hidden faithfulness. Before David fought Goliath, he cared for sheep. Before Joseph led Egypt, he served in Potiphar’s house and in prison. Before Jesus washed away sins, He washed feet. 3. A servant leader does not use people Leadership becomes dangerous when people become tools for our success. Jesus never treated people as projects. He treated them as souls. Application A young church leader should ask: “Am I trying to be noticed, or am I trying to be useful?” Discussion Question What is one unseen or humble task in church that young leaders should be willing to do? ________________________________________ 5. Point Three: Leadership Requires Spiritual Growth Scripture: 1 Peter 5:2–3 “Feed the flock of God… being examples to the flock.” Leadership is not only skill. It is spiritual responsibility. A person may be gifted in speaking, music, media, organization, or teaching, but gifts alone are not enough. Gifts may open the door, but character keeps us trustworthy. Young Leaders Must Grow in Three Areas 1. Personal devotion Young leaders cannot only prepare lessons, songs, or programs. They must also prepare their own hearts. A leader should maintain regular prayer, Scripture reading, worship, and repentance. You cannot lead people spiritually if you are empty spiritually. 2. Teachability A young leader must remain teachable. College graduation may mark the end of one kind of education, but spiritual leadership requires lifelong learning. Correction is not rejection. Advice is not an attack. Mentoring is not control. 3. Emotional maturity Church leadership involves people, and people can be complicated. Leaders must learn patience, forgiveness, listening, and self-control. A spiritually growing leader does not react to everything quickly. They learn to respond with wisdom. Application Ask yourself: “Am I growing privately at the same time I am leading publicly?” Discussion Question Why is character more important than talent in church leadership? ________________________________________ 6. Point Four: Leadership Requires Courage and Faithfulness Scripture: Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua was stepping into leadership after Moses. That was not easy. He had big shoes to fill, serious responsibilities, and many unknowns ahead. God did not say, “Joshua, you are strong because you have all the answers.” God said Joshua could be strong because God was with him. Young leaders need courage because leadership includes: disappointments, criticism, mistakes, difficult conversations, slow progress, and spiritual opposition. But courage does not mean you never feel afraid. Courage means you obey God even when you feel afraid. Faithfulness Over Fame Many young adults live in a world of quick results, social media attention, and instant feedback. But church leadership is often slow, quiet, and long-term. God values faithfulness. Scripture: Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” You may not always be thanked. You may not always be noticed. You may not always see immediate results. But God sees faithful service. Application Ask yourself: “Can God trust me to serve faithfully even when no one praises me?” ________________________________________ 7. Practical Leadership Commitments Invite the students to write down or reflect on these commitments: 1. I will lead by example before I lead by title. 2. I will serve people, not use people. 3. I will keep growing spiritually and emotionally. 4. I will remain teachable and accountable. 5. I will be faithful in small things. 6. I will lead with courage because God is with me. ________________________________________ 8. Group Reflection Questions Use these for discussion or personal reflection: 1. What is one fear young adults may have when stepping into church leadership? 2. What is one strength young adults bring to the church? 3. Why is humility necessary for spiritual leadership? 4. What is one area of your character God may be developing right now? 5. What small responsibility can you be faithful in this month? ________________________________________ 9. Closing Challenge Leadership in the church is not about being impressive. It is about being faithful. You may be young, but you can be an example. You may be inexperienced, but you can be teachable. You may feel nervous, but you can be courageous. You may not have a big title, but you can have a servant’s heart. God is not only looking for leaders with talent. He is looking for leaders with humility, courage, purity, love, and faithfulness. The church needs young adults who will not simply attend, but serve. Not simply criticize, but build. Not simply wait, but step forward. Not simply lead programs, but shepherd people with love. ________________________________________ 10. Closing Prayer Lord, thank You for calling young adults to serve in Your church. Help them not to lead with pride, fear, or selfish ambition, but with humility, courage, and love. Teach them to be examples in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Give them servant hearts like Jesus. Help them grow in wisdom, patience, and faithfulness. May their leadership strengthen the church and honor Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

• Message: “Here I am send me” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Ordination Service for Minister Jean

• Message: “Resisting Temptations” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." RESISTING TEMPTATION IN A DIGITAL AGE Theme: Choosing Holiness in a World of Constant Temptation --- Lesson Objective By the end of this sermon, listeners will understand that temptation is a normal part of the Christian life, but through God's power they can overcome it. They will learn practical biblical principles for resisting temptation and pursuing holiness in a world filled with distractions, pressures, and digital influences. --- Introduction (8–10 Minutes) We live in a world where temptation is more accessible than ever before. Previous generations had to seek temptation. Today, temptation often seeks us. It arrives through: Smartphones Social media Entertainment Advertising Peer pressure Workplace culture Relationships Many believers struggle because they think temptation itself is sin. However, the Bible teaches that temptation is not sin. Even Jesus was tempted. Hebrews 4:15 (NT) > "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin." The issue is not whether temptation comes. The issue is how we respond when it comes. --- Foundational Truth Temptation is inevitable, but surrendering to temptation is not. God never promised a temptation-free life. He did promise sufficient grace and power to overcome. --- Primary Scriptures Old Testament Genesis 39:6–12 Psalm 119:9–11 Proverbs 4:23 New Testament Matthew 4:1–11 James 1:13–15 1 Corinthians 10:13 --- POINT 1: Temptation Is Common to Everyone (8–10 Minutes) Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NT) > "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind." One of Satan's greatest lies is: "Nobody understands." "You're the only one struggling." "Everyone else has it together." The truth is: Every believer faces temptation. Old Testament Example: David Even a man after God's own heart struggled with temptation. New Testament Example: Peter Even an apostle struggled with fear and failure. Application We should never be surprised by temptation. Being tempted does not mean: You are weak You are a failure You are not spiritual It means you are human. --- POINT 2: Temptation Usually Begins in the Mind (8–10 Minutes) Scripture: James 1:14–15 (NT) > "Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed." Notice the progression: 1. Desire 2. Temptation 3. Sin 4. Consequences Sin rarely begins with an action. It usually begins with a thought. Old Testament Support: Proverbs 4:23 > "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Illustration A small spark can become a forest fire. A small thought can become a destructive habit if it is not addressed early. Application Guard: What you watch What you listen to What you allow into your mind --- POINT 3: God's Word Is One of Our Greatest Weapons (8–10 Minutes) Scripture: Matthew 4:1–11 (NT) When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He responded repeatedly: > "It is written..." Jesus did not argue with Satan. He answered with Scripture. Old Testament Support: Psalm 119:11 > "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Truth Many believers try to fight spiritual battles without spiritual weapons. The Word of God: Exposes lies Strengthens faith Renews the mind Provides guidance Practical Application Memorize Scripture. When tempted by: Fear → Isaiah 41:10 Anxiety → Philippians 4:6–7 Lust → Job 31:1 Discouragement → Romans 8:28 --- POINT 4: God Always Provides a Way Out (8 Minutes) Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NT) > "He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." Notice: God doesn't always remove temptation. He provides an escape route. Old Testament Example: Joseph (Genesis 39) Joseph was tempted by Potiphar's wife. He did not negotiate. He did not linger. He ran. Key Lesson Sometimes spiritual victory looks like physical distance. Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is leave the situation. Application Identify your escape routes: Accountability partners Prayer Scripture Changing environments Removing unhealthy influences --- POINT 5: Holiness Is Not Just Avoiding Sin—It Is Pursuing God (7–8 Minutes) Scripture: Matthew 5:8 (NT) > "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Many Christians focus only on what they should avoid. The Bible focuses on what we should pursue. Old Testament Support: Psalm 63:1 > "You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you..." The goal is not merely: Less sin The goal is: More Christ Illustration Darkness is removed not by fighting darkness, but by turning on the light. The closer we grow to Christ, the less attractive sin becomes. --- Practical Application (5 Minutes) Ask yourself: 1. What temptation do I face most often? 2. What situations make me spiritually vulnerable? 3. What practical boundaries do I need? 4. What Scripture can I use in moments of temptation? Weekly Challenge This week: Spend 10 minutes daily in Scripture. Identify one area of temptation. Create one practical boundary. Ask one trusted Christian friend to pray for you. --- Conclusion (3–4 Minutes) Temptation is not a sign that God has abandoned you. Temptation is often the battleground where faith grows stronger. Remember: Temptation is common. God's Word is powerful. God provides a way out. The Holy Spirit empowers obedience. Victory is possible through Christ. Romans 8:37 (NT) > "In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." --- Short Altar / Response Call Perhaps today you are fighting a private battle. Maybe no one else knows. Yet God knows. And God offers grace, forgiveness, strength, and victory. Let us pray: "Father, thank You that You understand our struggles and weaknesses. Help us recognize temptation before it takes root. Fill our minds with Your Word and strengthen us through Your Spirit. Give us wisdom to avoid temptation and courage to choose obedience. Draw us closer to You each day. In Jesus' name, Amen." --- Key Takeaway The strongest defense against temptation is not stronger willpower—it is a closer walk with Christ

• Message: “Fear of The Lord” from Min Clarence

  Sermon: The Fear of God Theme Scripture Proverbs 1 v 7: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Introduction • What do we learn from these two scriptures? • Fear is an unpleasant, primal emotion triggered by the perception of danger, threat, or harm • Is it a healthy friendship if we are fearful our friend? In John 15 v 15 Jesus says, I call you friends. Proverbs 1 v 7: 2 Timothy 1 v 7: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. Summary of Differences Feature 2 Timothy 1:7 (Timidity) Proverbs 1:7 (Reverence) Original Language Greek (deilia) Hebrew (yirah) Core Definition Cowardice, anxiety, panic, dread. Awe, deep respect, worshipful honor. Origin / Source The flesh, the world, or the enemy. A proper understanding of God's character. Effect on the Mind Confuses, paralyzes, and distorts reality. Grants clarity, wisdom, and knowledge. Relationship to God Drives you away from God in shame. Draws you closer to God in obedience. What is the fear of God • The Fear of God is defined not as a paralyzing terror or being afraid of God, but as a profound, reverent awe, humble submission, and complete allegiance to His absolute authority and holiness • It inspires worship • It motivates us to want to please God • Brings us into submission • Let God be God When the student is ready, the teacher will appear • True learning only happens when you are mentally open, actively seeking growth, and prepared to receive knowledge • The Student can only learn and grow if the submit to the Teacher’s plan. • Are we in alignment with God’s plans? • Do our actions, attitude and meditations reflect our Fear of God 1 Samuel 15 v 24: Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; for I have transgressed the command of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. Exodus 1 v 15 - 17: The king of Egypt said to the Hebrew midwives, whose names were Shiphrah and Puah, “When you are helping the Hebrew women during childbirth on the delivery stool, if you see that the baby is a boy, kill him; but if it is a girl, let her live.” The midwives, however, feared God and did not do what the king of Egypt had told them to do; they let the boys live. So What? 1) Choose to Fear God Proverbs 1 v 28 - 29: “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. 2) Let the Holy Spirit Teach us to Fear God Psalm 34 v 11: Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. 3) Depart from Evil Proverbs 3 v 7: Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. • Faith is living in conformity with an unseen God • Fear of the Lord is recognition of God’s sovereignty and holiness

• Message: “Telephone to Jesus” from Min Jebu

  A message from the series "Sunday Service."

• Message: “Run the Race” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Young Adult Church Lesson for Sports Day Title “Run Your Race: Faith, Discipline, and Finishing Well” Main Scripture Hebrews 12:1–2 “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus…” Supporting Scriptures 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 — Spiritual discipline Philippians 3:13–14 — Pressing toward the goal 2 Timothy 4:7 — Finishing the race Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 — We need others Colossians 3:23 — Do everything for the Lord ________________________________________ Lesson Objective By the end of the lesson, young adults should understand that the Christian life requires focus, discipline, endurance, and dependence on Christ. They should also be challenged to identify what is slowing them down spiritually and commit to running their race with purpose. ________________________________________ Lesson Structure 1. Opening Question and Introduction Time: 5 minutes Ask: “What makes a great athlete?” Allow several answers. Possible responses may include: • Discipline • Practice • Focus • Sacrifice • Good coaching • Mental toughness • Teamwork • Endurance • Desire to win Then say: “Sports Day gives us a good picture of the Christian life. Athletes do not succeed by accident. They train, sacrifice, listen to their coach, follow the rules, and keep their eyes on the goal. In the same way, spiritual growth does not happen by accident. A strong Christian life requires focus, discipline, endurance, and a clear goal.” Transition: “Today we are not just talking about winning games. We are talking about running the race God has placed before us.” ________________________________________ 2. Bible Reading Time: 5 minutes Read Hebrews 12:1–2 aloud. Then say: “This passage gives us a picture of the Christian life as a race. But it is not a short sprint. It is more like a long-distance race. It requires patience, endurance, and focus.” Explain three phrases from the passage: “Throw off everything that hinders” Not everything that slows us down is obviously sinful. Some things may not be wrong in themselves, but they become weights. Examples for young adults: • Too much social media • Unhealthy relationships • Constant comparison • Fear of failure • Need for approval • Laziness • Entertainment that controls your time • Bitterness • Lack of discipline • Trying to please everyone Say: “A runner does not carry extra weight just because the weight is not illegal. The question is not only, ‘Is this sinful?’ Sometimes the question is, ‘Is this helping me run the race God gave me?’” “The sin that so easily entangles” Sin does not just make us guilty; it traps us. It tangles our thoughts, desires, relationships, and decisions. Examples: • Secret sin • Pride • Lust • Dishonesty • Anger • Envy • Addiction • Unforgiveness • Compromise • Living a double life Say: “Sin promises freedom, but it usually becomes a chain.” “Fixing our eyes on Jesus” The Christian life is not mainly about looking at yourself, your failures, your critics, or your competition. It is about fixing your eyes on Christ. Say: “When your eyes are on people, you become either proud or insecure. When your eyes are on Jesus, you become steady.” ________________________________________ 3. Main Teaching Point One: Run Your Race, Not Someone Else’s Time: 8 minutes Read Hebrews 12:1 again: “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us…” Emphasize: God has a race marked out for each person. Your race may not look like someone else’s race. Young adults often face pressure to compare: • Career progress • Marriage and dating • Money • Education • Ministry gifts • Social media image • Spiritual maturity • Life direction Say: “One of the fastest ways to lose joy is to compare your race with someone else’s.” Use this sports example: “In sports, every athlete has a role. The goalkeeper should not compare himself to the striker. The sprinter should not compare herself to the marathon runner. A team becomes weak when everyone wants the same position.” Spiritual application: God may call one person to public ministry and another to quiet faithfulness. One person may lead from the stage; another may serve behind the scenes. One person may mature quickly; another may be walking through a longer process. The issue is not whether your race looks impressive. The issue is whether you are faithful. Discussion Questions 1. Where do young adults most often feel pressure to compare themselves? 2. How does comparison affect our relationship with God? 3. What does it mean to be faithful in your own race? Key Statement Comparison distracts you from calling. Faithfulness keeps you focused. ________________________________________ 4. Main Teaching Point Two: Discipline Is Not Legalism; It Is Training Time: 8 minutes Read 1 Corinthians 9:24–27. Paul uses athletic language. He talks about running, training, and self-control. Say: “Many people want spiritual strength without spiritual training. But no athlete becomes strong by accident, and no believer becomes mature by accident.” Spiritual disciplines are not a way to earn salvation. They are a way to train the heart to follow Christ. Examples of spiritual training: • Prayer • Bible reading • Worship • Fasting • Serving • Giving • Confession • Accountability • Silence before God • Fellowship with believers Say: “Discipline is not punishment. Discipline is preparation.” Use this example: “An athlete does not practice because the coach hates them. The athlete practices because the coach sees potential in them. In the same way, God’s call to discipline is not because He wants to restrict your life. He wants to strengthen your life.” Young adult application: Many young adults are busy, distracted, and tired. Work, school, relationships, phones, finances, family expectations, and future plans all compete for attention. Say: “If you do not choose your spiritual priorities, your distractions will choose for you.” Discussion Questions 1. What is one spiritual discipline that young adults often neglect? 2. Why is consistency difficult? 3. What is one realistic spiritual habit you could begin this week? Key Statement Spiritual growth is not accidental. It is trained. ________________________________________ 5. Main Teaching Point Three: You Need a Team Read Ecclesiastes 4:9–10. “Two are better than one…” Sports Day reminds us that life is not meant to be lived alone. Even individual athletes need coaches, trainers, and encouragers. Say: “Isolation is dangerous. Many people do not fall because they are weak; they fall because they are alone.” Young adults especially need Christian community because they are facing major life decisions: • Career choices • Dating and marriage • Identity • Money management • Temptation • Family expectations • Doubt • Calling • Pressure to compromise A healthy Christian team includes people who: • Pray for you • Tell you the truth • Encourage you • Correct you with love • Walk with you when life is difficult • Help you return to God when you drift Say: “You do not need fans only. You need teammates.” Fans cheer when you are doing well. Teammates help you when you are struggling. Discussion Questions 1. What is the difference between a fan and a spiritual teammate? 2. Why do young adults sometimes avoid accountability? 3. What kind of people should be on your spiritual team? Key Statement You can run alone, but you will not run as well alone. ________________________________________ 6. Main Teaching Point Four: Do Not Quit Before the Finish Line Time: 7 minutes Read 2 Timothy 4:7. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Paul did not say, “I had an easy race.” He said, “I finished.” Say: “The Christian life is not measured only by how excited you were at the beginning. It is measured by faithfulness to the end.” Young adults may feel like quitting because of: • Disappointment • Failure • Delayed dreams • Church hurt • Personal weakness • Unanswered prayer • Pressure from the world • Feeling behind in life • Spiritual dryness Say: “Sometimes endurance looks like getting up again after you failed. Sometimes it looks like praying when you do not feel anything. Sometimes it looks like obeying God when nobody sees.” Use sports example: “In a race, the crowd may cheer at the start, but the real test comes in the middle, when the body is tired and the finish line still seems far away.” Spiritual encouragement: God does not only give commands. He gives grace. We run because Jesus already finished His race. Hebrews 12 tells us to fix our eyes on Jesus because He endured the cross and sat down at the right hand of God. Discussion Questions 1. What causes young adults to feel spiritually tired? 2. What helps a believer keep going during difficult seasons? 3. What does it mean to finish well? Key Statement The goal is not to start loudly. The goal is to finish faithfully. ________________________________________ 7. Object Lesson: The Extra Weight Use a backpack, gym bag, or several heavy items. Ask for one volunteer. Have the volunteer hold or wear the bag. Say: “Imagine trying to run a race while carrying this. The weight may not be evil, but it makes the race harder.” Then name possible weights: • Fear • Distraction • Pride • Comparison • Unforgiveness • Bad habits • Unhealthy relationships • Secret sin • Need for approval Ask: “What are some weights young adults carry today?” Let the group respond. Then remove the bag. Say: “This is the picture in Hebrews 12. God is not asking us to throw off weights because He wants to take away our joy. He wants us to run free.” Main point: You cannot run freely while holding tightly to what God told you to release. ________________________________________ 8. Personal Reflection Time: 3 minutes Ask everyone to quietly think about these questions: 1. What is one thing slowing me down spiritually? 2. What is one sin I need to confess and turn from? 3. What is one spiritual discipline I need to practice? 4. Who is helping me run my race? 5. Am I keeping my eyes on Jesus or on people? You may ask them to write one private sentence: “This week, I will run my race by __________.” Examples: • spending time in prayer each morning • forgiving someone • reducing distractions • reading Scripture daily • asking for accountability • serving with a better attitude • stopping comparison • obeying God in one difficult area ________________________________________ 9. Closing Challenge Time: 3 minutes Say: “Sports Day is fun. We enjoy the games, the competition, and the fellowship. But today’s deeper reminder is this: life itself is a race. The world tells us to run after success, image, money, pleasure, and approval. But Scripture calls us to run after Christ.” “Do not waste your race. Do not copy someone else’s race. Do not run with unnecessary weight. Do not quit in the middle. Run with your eyes fixed on Jesus.” ________________________________________ 10. Closing Prayer Time: 2 minutes “Lord Jesus, thank You for calling us to follow You. Help us to run the race You have placed before us. Show us the weights we need to lay aside and the sins that are entangling us. Give us discipline, endurance, humility, and courage. Help us stop comparing ourselves with others and teach us to be faithful in our own calling. Surround us with people who will encourage us, correct us, and walk with us. Above all, help us keep our eyes fixed on You. In Jesus’ name, amen.” ________________________________________ Main Takeaway Run your race. Drop the weight. Train your spirit. Stay with the team. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Optional Small Group Questions 1. What part of the Christian race feels hardest for young adults today? 2. What “weights” are not necessarily sinful but still slow us down? 3. How can social media increase comparison and distraction? 4. What spiritual discipline do you need most right now? 5. Who is one person who helps you stay faithful? 6. What does “fixing your eyes on Jesus” look like in everyday life? 7. What is one step you can take this week to run your race better?

• Message: “Life Does Not Rewind” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Life Does Not Rewind Key Theme: Time moves forward. Life gives no rewind button. What we do with today matters for eternity. Primary Scripture Texts: Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 – “To everything there is a season…” James 4:13–15 – “You do not know what tomorrow will bring…” Ephesians 5:15–16 – “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Lesson Objective: To help believers understand that life moves forward without pause or rewind, and to call them to live intentionally, obediently, and fruitfully now, not later. Introduction: The Illusion of a Rewind Button We live in a world where almost everything has a rewind button. You can rewind a movie. You can replay a song. You can undo a typo. But life does not rewind. Once words are spoken, they cannot be unsaid. Once opportunities pass, they may never return. Once time is spent, it is gone forever. Many people live as if they’ll “fix it later,” “serve God later,” “forgive later,” or “get serious later.” But Scripture reminds us: later is never guaranteed. I. Life Moves in One Direction — Forward Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 “To everything there is a season… a time to be born, and a time to die.” God designed life with seasons, not repeats. You cannot go back to childhood. You cannot go back and raise your children again. You cannot relive yesterday’s choices. Biblical Example: Esau Genesis 25:29–34 Hebrews 12:16–17 Esau traded his birthright for a single meal. Later, he wanted the blessing—but the moment had passed. Truth: Regret is often born when we realize too late that life does not rewind. ________________________________________ II. Tomorrow Is Promised to No One James 4:13–15 “You do not know what tomorrow will bring…” The Bible does not say tomorrow might be difficult. It says tomorrow is uncertain. We assume: “I’ll repent later” “I’ll forgive later” “I’ll witness later” “I’ll obey when things slow down” But Scripture says our life is a vapor—here today, gone tomorrow. Biblical Example: The Rich Fool Luke 12:16–21 He planned for many years. God required his soul that night. Lesson: Preparation without God is wasted time. ________________________________________ III. Missed Moments Cannot Be Recovered John 9:4 “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming…” Jesus understood urgency. There are: Doors that close Hearts that harden Seasons that end Opportunities that expire Biblical Example: Jerusalem Luke 19:41–44 Jesus wept—not because Jerusalem lacked religion, but because they missed their moment of visitation. They were busy. They were religious. But they were spiritually blind. ________________________________________ IV. God Still Redeems Time — But Only Moving Forward Ephesians 5:15–16 “Redeeming the time…” You cannot relive yesterday, but you can redeem today. God does not rewind life—but He restores purpose. Biblical Example: Peter Denied Jesus three times Could not rewind his failure But Jesus restored him and used him mightily (John 21) Key Truth: God forgives the past, but He calls us to obedience now. ________________________________________ V. The Evidence of a Life Lived Well Is Fruit Matthew 7:16 “You will know them by their fruits.” Life does not rewind—but fruit reveals how time was used. We are known not by intentions, but by: Character Obedience Love Faithfulness Galatians 6:7–8 “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” We don’t reap intentions. We reap actions. VI. Practical Applications 1. Do not delay obedience 2. If God said forgive—do it now 3. If God said serve—start now 4. Guard your words Words spoken cannot be rewound Invest in people, not excuses 1. Relationships matter more than schedules 2. Live with eternity in mind 3. What you do today echoes beyond today o Conclusion: Today Is a Gift Life does not rewind. But today is still in your hands. You may not be able to fix yesterday— But you can honor God right now. 2 Corinthians 6:2 “Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation.” ________________________________________ Altar Call / Invitation If you’re waiting for “someday,” God is calling you today. • If you’ve delayed obedience • • If you’ve wasted time • • If you’ve been living on pause • God is saying: “Come now. Start again. Move forward with Me.” Prayer: “Lord, I give You my today. I cannot rewind my past, but I surrender my future. Use my life from this moment forward. Amen.”

• Message: “TRUSTING GOD IN UNCERTAIN SEASONS” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." TRUSTING GOD IN UNCERTAIN SEASONS Theme: Faith When Life Is Unclear Lesson Objective By the end of this lesson, we will understand that uncertainty is not the absence of God, and we will learn how to trust God’s guidance one step at a time, even when answers, timing, and outcomes are unclear. Introduction One of the biggest struggles young adults face is uncertainty: • “Am I on the right path?” • “Did I make the right decision?” • “What if I fail?” • “What if I’m too late—or too early?” We want clarity, but God often gives direction without details. We say: • “God, show me the whole plan.” God says: • “Trust Me with the next step.” Uncertainty is uncomfortable—but it is also one of God’s primary tools for developing faith. Foundational Truth Faith does not eliminate uncertainty; faith learns to walk through it with God. Primary Scriptures Old Testament • Proverbs 3:5–6 • Psalm 37:23–24 • Genesis 12:1–4 New Testament • Hebrews 11:8 • James 1:2–5 • Matthew 14:28–31 POINT 1: God Often Calls Us Without Explaining Everything Scripture: Genesis 12:1–4 (OT) “Go from your country… to the land I will show you.” God did not tell Abram: • Where exactly he was going • How long it would take • What obstacles he would face God simply said, “Go.” New Testament Connection: Hebrews 11:8 “By faith Abraham obeyed… even though he did not know where he was going.” Truth Faith is not about having all the information—it is about trusting the One who gives the instruction. Illustration GPS often says, “Proceed to the route.” It doesn’t show every turn at once—only the next one. God works the same way. POINT 2: Trusting God Means Leaning on Him, Not Yourself Scripture: Proverbs 3:5–6 (OT) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding…” Our understanding is: • Limited • Emotional • Influenced by fear New Testament Support: 2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” Reality Most stress comes from trying to: • Control outcomes • Predict the future • Figure everything out alone Key Insight Trusting God doesn’t mean you stop thinking—it means you stop depending on your own thinking. POINT 3: God Directs the Steps of Those Who Walk with Him Scripture: Psalm 37:23–24 (OT) “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord…” God doesn’t promise: • A problem-free path But He does promise: • A guided path New Testament Connection: Romans 8:14 “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” Encouragement Even if you stumble: • You are not abandoned • You are not off God’s radar POINT 4: Uncertainty Is Often God’s Classroom Scripture: James 1:2–4 (NT) “Consider it pure joy… when you face trials of many kinds…” Trials: • Test faith • Build endurance • Develop maturity Old Testament Example: Exodus 13:17–18 God led Israel the long way, not the shortcut. Why? • To teach dependence • To build trust Truth God is more concerned with who you’re becoming than how fast you arrive. POINT 5: Fear Causes Us to Sink; Focus Keeps Us Walking Scripture: Matthew 14:28–31 (NT) Peter walked on water—until he focused on the storm. Old Testament Support: Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you…” Application Uncertainty becomes overwhelming when: • We focus on what could go wrong • We forget who is with us Faith grows when: • Eyes stay on Jesus • Trust replaces panic Practical Application Ask Yourself: 1. Where is God asking me to trust Him right now? 2. What step am I delaying because of fear? 3. Am I seeking control or obedience? Faith Practice for the Week: • Pray daily: “Lord, guide my steps today—even if You only show me one.” • Take one obedient step this week. Conclusion Uncertainty is not a sign of God’s absence—it’s often proof of His guidance. You may not know: • What’s next • How it will work out • When answers will come But you can know who walks with you. ________________________________________ Short Altar / Response Call “Lord, I release my need to control the future. I choose to trust You with what I cannot see. Order my steps, steady my heart, and lead me one day at a time. I place my confidence in You alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

• Message: “Irrigation” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." “Irrigation for the Soul: Why Spiritual Growth Requires a Constant Flow” Lesson Objective By the end of this message, we believers will understand that spiritual growth is not accidental. Just as a garden needs an intentional irrigation system to survive and flourish, our souls require regular, life-giving spiritual practices—God’s Word, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and obedience—so that we can bear visible, lasting fruit. Key Scripture Passages Psalm 1:1–3 – “He shall be like a tree planted by rivers of water…” John 7:37–38 – “Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” Matthew 7:16–20 – “You will know them by their fruits.” Galatians 5:22–23 – The fruit of the Spirit Isaiah 58:11 – “You shall be like a watered garden.” Jeremiah 17:7–8 – “He shall not cease from yielding fruit.” Introduction: The Garden Illustration A garden does not survive on good intentions. You can have: Rich soil High-quality seeds Plenty of sunshine But without water, nothing grows. In fact: A garden without water may look fine for a while Leaves may stay green briefly But underground, roots are drying up Eventually, everything withers. Our souls work the same way. Many Christians: Go to church Own a Bible Believe the right doctrines But they lack a daily irrigation system for their souls. And slowly—often invisibly—spiritual dryness sets in. I. God Designed the Soul to Need a Continuous Flow Psalm 1:3 “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season…” Notice: Not a tree near water Not a tree watered occasionally But a tree planted by rivers A river implies: Constant supply Ongoing movement Freshness, not stagnation God never designed us to run on spiritual leftovers. Jeremiah 17:8 “He shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.” Why? Because the roots go deep into a reliable source. Application: If your soul depends only on Sunday sermons, spiritual drought is inevitable. II. Dry Souls Still Show Up—but They Don’t Produce Fruit A neglected garden doesn’t die immediately. It still has: Stems Leaves Structure But: Fruit becomes small or nonexistent Colors fade Growth stops Matthew 7:16 “You will know them by their fruits.” Jesus does not say: “You will know them by their words” “You will know them by their church attendance” But by fruit. Key Truth Fruit is not something we manufacture Fruit is something that flows from a well-watered life Dry souls produce: Irritability instead of patience Criticism instead of love Burnout instead of joy Religion instead of relationship III. The Holy Spirit Is the Irrigation System John 7:37–38 “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink… out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” Jesus does not offer: A one-time drink A seasonal refresh He promises rivers. Galatians 5:22–23 “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” Notice: It is fruit, not fruits One source One Spirit You cannot grow this fruit by effort alone. You grow it by staying connected to the source. IV. Irrigation Requires Intentional Channels Water does not magically reach plants. In a garden, someone must: Dig channels Remove blockages Repair broken lines Spiritually, God provides the water—but we must keep the channels open. Primary Irrigation Channels 1.The Word of God – “Man shall not live by bread alone…” 2.Prayer – Ongoing communion, not emergency calls 3.Obedience – Disobedience clogs the flow 4.Fellowship – Shared faith strengthens roots Isaiah 58:11 “The Lord will guide you continually… and you shall be like a watered garden.” V. Blocked Irrigation Leads to Spiritual Drought Common blockages: Unconfessed sin Bitterness Neglect of Scripture Self-reliance A garden with blocked irrigation doesn’t need: Better seeds Louder encouragement It needs restored flow. Psalm 32:3–4 “When I kept silent, my bones grew old…” Dryness is often not absence of God—it is interrupted flow. VI. A Fruit-Bearing Life Glorifies God John 15:8 “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit.” Fruit: Feeds others Reveals the health of the tree Proves the reality of the root Matthew 7:20 “Therefore by their fruits you will know them.” The world is not convinced by Christian labels. It is convinced by transformed lives. Conclusion: Tend the Garden of Your Soul A garden must be: Watered regularly Inspected honestly Maintained intentionally The same is true of your soul. Final Questions for Reflection: Is my soul well-watered or just surviving? What spiritual channels have become blocked? Is there visible fruit in my life? Closing Scripture “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6) Closing Prayer “Lord, restore the flow in our lives. Remove every blockage. Reconnect us to the living water. Make us a watered garden that bears fruit for Your glory. Amen.” Altar Call: “Restore the Flow” Church, before we leave this place, I want us to pause for a moment. Gardens don’t dry out overnight. They dry out slowly… quietly… almost unnoticed. And the same can happen to our souls. You may still be attending church. You may still believe the right things. But deep down, you know the flow has slowed. Today, this altar is not for people who are far from God — it’s for people who are thirsty. Jesus said, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.” If you are here and you would say: “My soul feels dry,” or “My joy has faded,” or “I need God to clear the channels again,” this moment is for you. This is not about guilt. It’s about restoration. If you are able and willing, I invite you to come forward — not as a sign of failure, but as an act of faith saying, “Lord, I need Your living water again.” Prayer at the Altar “Father, we come just as we are. We confess that we cannot live on yesterday’s water. Restore the flow of Your Spirit in us. Remove every blockage. Soften what has grown hard. Revive what has grown dry. Make us again like a tree planted by rivers of water, bearing fruit in its season, for Your glory and for the blessing of others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Closing Word Church, remember this: God does not shame dry gardens — He waters them. Stay near the river. Keep the channels open. And let your life bear fruit that others can see.

• Message: “Does God Bless Bad People?” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Does God Bless Bad People? Lesson Objective: To help believers understand the difference between God’s general goodness and God’s covenant blessings, and to encourage trust in God’s justice, patience, and ultimate purposes. ________________________________________ Key Scriptures: ● Matthew 5:45 ● Psalm 73:1–17 ● Romans 2:4 ● Luke 12:15 ● Job 21:7–16 ● Galatians 6:7–9 Introduction: One of the most common—and emotionally charged—questions believers ask is this: “Why do bad people seem to prosper?” We see dishonest people succeed. We see corrupt leaders live comfortably. We see people who ignore God enjoying health, wealth, and peace—while faithful believers struggle. It can shake our faith if we don’t understand how God works. So today we ask honestly: Does God bless bad people? And if He does, what kind of blessing is it? I. What Do We Mean by “Blessing”? Before answering the question, we must define blessing. 1. Not all blessings are spiritual blessings ● Money, health, success, influence, long life—these are temporary. ● They are not proof of God’s approval. Jesus warned us: “Life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15) 2. The greatest blessings are eternal ● Salvation ● Forgiveness ● Peace with God ● A transformed heart ● Eternal life Many people confuse comfort with favor. II. God Shows General Goodness to All People Jesus said: “He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:45) 1. This is called common grace ● God allows life, work, family, beauty, joy, and opportunity for everyone. ● Even unbelievers benefit from God’s orderly world. 2. God is patient, not careless Romans 2:4 tells us: “God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.” What looks like blessing is often mercy giving time to repent. III. The Bible Acknowledges the Prosperity of the Wicked This is not a modern problem. 1. Job asked this question “Why do the wicked live on, growing old and increasing in power?” (Job 21:7) 2. David struggled deeply with this Psalm 73 describes how he almost lost his faith: ● The wicked were healthy ● They had no struggles ● They seemed carefree But then comes the turning point: “Until I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny.” (Psalm 73:17) IV. Temporary Prosperity Is Not Final Blessing 1. Earthly success can be dangerous Prosperity can: ● Harden the heart ● Create pride ● Reduce dependence on God Sometimes wealth is not a blessing—it’s a test. 2. God’s justice is never late Galatians 6:7 reminds us: “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Judgment may be delayed—but it is never canceled. V. God’s True Blessings Are Reserved for the Righteous 1. Covenant blessings belong to God’s people ● Forgiveness ● Guidance ● Discipline that produces holiness ● Eternal reward Hebrews reminds us that God disciplines those He loves. 2. God blesses righteousness—even when it hurts Sometimes obedience brings: ● Rejection ● Delay ● Sacrifice But God’s rewards are lasting, not temporary. VI. What Should Believers Do When the Wicked Prosper? 1. Guard your heart from envy Psalm 73 began with envy—and nearly ended in spiritual collapse. 2. Trust God’s long view God sees: ● Motives ● Futures ● Eternity We see only moments. 3. Stay faithful Galatians 6:9: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Conclusion: So—does God bless bad people? Yes, with temporary kindness. But no, not with covenant favor or eternal reward. What looks like blessing today may be: ● Mercy ● Opportunity to repent ● Or even a test that leads to downfall God’s justice is sure. God’s goodness is purposeful. And God’s rewards are eternal. Call to Response / Reflection: ● Are you measuring blessing by comfort or by closeness to God? ● Have you allowed envy to weaken your trust? ● Are you faithful even when obedience seems unrewarded? Short Altar Call / Prayer: “Lord, help us trust You when life feels unfair. Guard our hearts from envy and bitterness. Teach us to value eternal things over temporary success. Strengthen us to remain faithful, knowing that Your justice and Your rewards are sure. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”