Archives: Messages

  • Message: “The Road From Being A Disciple to Making Disciples” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." C.Understanding the true meaning of the Great Commission a.Definition of a Disciples – i.In Christianity, a disciple is a dedicated follower of Jesus. This term is found in the New Testament only in the Gospels and Acts. In the ancient world, a disciple is a follower or adherent of a teacher. Discipleship is not the same as being a student in the modern sense. A disciple in the ancient biblical world actively imitated both the life and teaching of the master.[1] It was a deliberate apprenticeship which made the fully formed disciple a living copy of the master ii.John 15:15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from My Father I have made known to you. iii.Luke 6: 40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master b.Last recorded instructions/command of Jesus to the disciples c.Baptizing d.Teaching e.Making others disciples D.The Process of becoming a disciple a.Hebrew 6: 1-3 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit b.The need for repentance. Acts 2: 37-38 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit c.Confession is not the same as repentance. E.Is Salvation eternal and cannot be lost? a.Justification is often understood as God's act of declaring a sinner to be righteous before Him. It is based on the atoning work of Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of humanity. Through faith in Christ, individuals are justified, or declared righteous, in God's sight. This concept is central to the Protestant doctrine of justification by faith alone, which asserts that faith, not good works, is the means by which one is justified. b.Sanctification, on the other hand, is the process by which believers are progressively conformed to the image of Christ. It involves the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, enabling them to grow in holiness and righteousness. Sanctification is a lifelong process that begins at the moment of salvation and continues until the believer's death or the return of Christ. c. Hebrews 5: 11-12 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food d.As newborn babes, yearn after the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow (1Peter 2:2)

  • Message: “Title: The Purpose of Problems: Embracing Trials for Growth” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." Title: The Purpose of Problems: Embracing Trials for Growth Do You Have Enough Problems? General Lesson Objective: We will understand that problems and trials are not just obstacles to be overcome but opportunities for spiritual growth. Scripture: James 1:2-4 (NIV) "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." Personal Objectives: 1. Identify examples from the Bible where individuals faced challenges and grew in their faith and character. 2. Explain how problems can lead to greater dependence on God and empathy for others. 3. Reflect on your own challenges as potential avenues for spiritual growth and maturity. 4. Apply biblical principles to our lives, viewing problems as opportunities to deepen our faith and trust in God's providence. Introduction: Today, we'll explore the purpose of problems in our lives. It's natural to avoid difficulties, but as we delve into the Scriptures, we'll discover how challenges can shape us for the better. Biblical Reference: James 1:2-4 (NIV) "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." 2 real life examples in song and prose a. Song by Andre Crouch that says through it all I have learned to trust in God. Without the trials I would not know what God could do b. Charlie Tremendous- When people came to him with problems and asked him for prayer he prayed that they would have more problems so they could learn to totally depend on God 1. Problems as Opportunities for Growth - Just as physical exercise strengthens muscles, trials strengthen our faith and character. - Example: Joseph faced betrayal by his brothers, slavery, and imprisonment. Yet, through these trials, he grew in resilience and wisdom, ultimately becoming a leader in Egypt (Genesis 37-50). 2. Problems Teach Us Dependence on God - In times of trouble, we realize our limitations and turn to God for strength and guidance. - Example: The Israelites faced numerous challenges in the wilderness, teaching them to rely on God's provision and leading (Exodus 16-17). 3. Problems Build Empathy and Compassion - Experiencing difficulties can cultivate empathy for others going through similar struggles. - Example: Job endured immense suffering, yet his friends' misguided advice deepened his empathy for others in distress (Job 2:11-13; 42:10). 4. Problems Produce Perseverance and Maturity - Overcoming trials develops perseverance, leading to spiritual maturity and completeness. - Example: The apostle Paul faced various trials, including persecution and imprisonment. Through these challenges, he learned to be content in all circumstances. Philippians 4:11-13 NIV I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 5. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. Conclusion: As we navigate life's challenges, let's embrace them as opportunities for growth, relying on God's strength and wisdom. Remember, problems are not obstacles but stepping stones to a deeper faith and maturity in Christ. Problems are not just for you but maybe more importantly it is for others.

  • Message: “Balancing LIfe In A Busy World” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." Finding Balance in a Busy World Lesson Objective: To equip each of us with biblical insights and practical strategies to recognize and overcome the busyness trap, prioritize rest and self-care, and cultivate a balanced lifestyle that honors God and fosters holistic well-being. Scripture:  As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” A.The Busyness Trap Definition: The "busyness trap" refers to the cultural tendency to prioritize constant activity and productivity at the expense of other important aspects of life, such as relationships, self-care, and spiritual well-being. This trap can lead to feelings of overwhelm, burnout, and a sense of never having enough time. Examples: negative effects of busyness on mental, physical, and spiritual health 1.Always being "on": Feeling the need to be constantly available and responsive, even during times designated for rest or leisure. 2.Ignoring personal needs: Neglecting self-care practices, such as exercise, healthy eating, or adequate sleep, in favor of work or other obligations. 3.Over-scheduling: Packing schedules with back-to-back activities without leaving room for rest or reflection. B.Biblical Scriptures that support resting Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Genesis 2: 2-3 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. The importance of rest as a spiritual discipline and a way to refocus on God. C.Practical Steps for Finding Balance Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) – There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: 1.Prioritizing tasks 2.Setting boundaries 3.Scheduling regular rest D.Trusting God with Our Time Mark 1:35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. E.Other Ways to help us in a busy world a.Find a new way to multi task- i.e. One has a gift for music and would like to use that gift then schedule to write or learn a song for Church

  • Message: “Easter Servant Leadership” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." Easter and Servant Leadership Lesson Objective: You will be able to identify and articulate three key ways in which the Easter story exemplifies servant leadership, and develop a personal action plan to implement one aspect of servant leadership in our own lives Scripture: Mark 10:42-45 (NIV) Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Introduction Easter Connection Why Did Christ Die on the Cross? 1. **Ultimate Sacrifice as Service:** - The events leading to Easter, particularly the crucifixion, represent the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus laying down His life for humanity. This act is the pinnacle of servanthood, where leadership is expressed not through dominance or power, but through the willingness to suffer for the benefit of others. It underscores the message that true leaders are those who put the needs and salvation of others before their own comfort and safety. 2. **Victory and Humility:** - Easter is not only about sacrifice but also about victory—Jesus' resurrection signifies triumph over death and sin. This victory, however, is achieved through humility and service, not through conventional means of power. It presents a model of leadership that achieves its ends through love, sacrifice, and humility, offering a new life and hope to followers. 3. **Servanthood as the Path to Exaltation:** - The resurrection serves as God's affirmation of Jesus' servanthood approach to leadership. It shows that servanthood leads to exaltation in the kingdom of God. This principle encourages leaders to adopt a posture of service, promising that true greatness and lasting impact are found in putting others first. 4. **Empowerment of Followers:** - Post-resurrection, Jesus empowers His disciples, entrusting them with the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). This act of empowerment is an essential aspect of servant leadership. Jesus prepares and enables His followers to lead and serve others, demonstrating that leadership involves raising others up and equipping them to carry forward the mission. **Redefinition of Greatness:** - The greatness in the Kingdom of God is redefined by Jesus not as a function of how many serve you, but by how many you serve. This inversion of values is central to Christian leadership and directly challenges conventional notions of power and success. **Transformation Focus:** - The objective emphasizes the transformative potential of servant leadership, both for individuals and their broader communities. This ties back to the Easter message of renewal and hope, suggesting that by embodying servant leadership, participants can contribute to positive change around them. **Reflection on the Resurrection:** - The action plan is not just about adopting a set of behaviors; it's also about reflecting on the significance of the resurrection. This reflection is meant to inspire and motivate participants, reminding them that the power of the resurrection supports their efforts to live out servant leadership. **Application to Modern Leadership:** - Encourage your congregation to reflect on how they can embody servant leadership in their own lives. This might involve reevaluating their goals and ambitions through the lens of service to others, seeking to lead in their families, workplaces, and communities by putting the needs of others first, and finding ways to serve those who are marginalized or in need. By focusing on these aspects, your sermon can draw a direct line from the teachings and example of Jesus to the lives of your congregation members today, challenging them to embrace servant leadership as a way of life, especially in the light of Easter's message of hope, renewal, and transformation . 3. **Transformation Focus:** - The objective emphasizes the transformative potential of servant leadership, both for individuals and their broader communities. This ties back to the Easter message of renewal and hope, suggesting that by embodying servant leadership, participants can contribute to positive change around them. 4. **Reflection on the Resurrection:** - The action plan is not just about adopting a set of behaviors; it's also about reflecting on the significance of the resurrection. This reflection is meant to inspire and motivate participants, reminding them that the power of the resurrection supports their efforts to live out servant leadership.

  • Message: “Order My Steps” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." Order My Steps in Your Word Dear Lord Finding Our Identity in Christ Lesson Objective: To empower each of us to understand and embrace our identity in Christ, recognizing that our true value and purpose are found in Him, apart from societal labels or personal achievements and learning how to live out our God-given identity with confidence and purpose. Scripture: Galatians 2:20 (NIV) "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Introduction Why Galatians 2:20? • Christ-Centered Identity: This verse beautifully captures the essence of our identity in Christ. It speaks to the transformative power of the Gospel—how our old selves, with its sin and worldly identity, is crucified with Christ, and our new life is now hidden in Him. • Faith and Love: It emphasizes living by faith in Jesus, who loves us and gave Himself for us. This highlights the relational aspect of our identity, rooted in Christ's sacrificial love, which is fundamental for young adults navigating the complexities of identity and purpose. • Personal and Relational: The verse is deeply personal ("who loved me and gave himself for me"), making it a powerful reminder of the individual love Christ has for each person. This personal aspect can deeply resonate with young adults seeking a personal connection and purpose in their faith journey. Lesson: A. How do you identify yourself  When asked to introduce yourself how do you do it?  What are three words you would use to describe yourself?  Our self-perception is often influenced by external factors. B. The World's Perspective on Identity  Social Media  Career success  Relationship status C. Romans 12:2, emphasizing the call to not conform to the world but be transformed by the renewal of the mind  Understanding how our identity in Christ differs from worldly identities. D. Ephesians 2:10: Discuss the concept of being God's handiwork and what it means to be created for a purpose. Encourage personal reflection on what God’s workmanship looks like in our lives. E. 2 Corinthians 5:17**: Explore the transformative power of being a new creation in Christ. Discuss practical implications of this new identity in daily life. F. - 1 Peter 2:9: Break down the descriptors (chosen people, royal priesthood, holy nation, God’s special possession) to explore the dignity, purpose, and calling we have in Christ. Discuss how this royal identity influences our actions, decisions, and relationships. Embodying Our Identity in Christ - **Practical Steps**: Discuss practical ways to live out our identity in Christ, such as through serving, engaging in community, and practicing spiritual disciplines (prayer, reading Scripture, etc.). Highlight the importance of community in reinforcing our identity in Christ. - **Scripture for Daily Living**: Introduce Philippians 4:8 as a guide for daily life, focusing on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. Discuss how focusing our minds on these things can help us live out our identity in Christ. - **Action Plan**: Write a personal commitment or action step you can take to affirm your identity in Christ in the coming week. This could be as simple as memorizing a scripture that speaks to your identity in Christ or performing an act of service as a reflection of Christ’s love. Conclusion - **Recap and Encouragement**: Summarize the key points, emphasizing that our true identity is found in who we are in Christ, not in the labels the world places on us or the ones we might be tempted to adopt for ourselves. Closing Prayer: Conclude with a prayer that commits the action plans to God and asks for His strength and guidance in living out our true identity in Christ.

  • Message: “Lessons from Obadiah: Pride and Humility in God’s Plan” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." **Title: "Lessons from Obadiah: Pride and Humility in God's Plan"** Lesson Objective: To explore the context of Obadiah, understand the themes of pride and humility, and reflect on God's justice Scripture: Proverbs 16: 18 Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Introduction Obadiah is often overlooked but contains valuable lessons for our lives. Background information Third John (219 words, 1 chapter, 14 verses) Second John (245 words, 1 chapter, 13 verses) Obadiah is the smallest book in the Old Testament, consisting of only 21 verses. Consistent with that Obediah is a minor prophet The Bible gives no information on the person but the name means Servant or Worshipper of Yahweh and is thought to live around the time of Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Theme of the book Obediah 1: 1-4 The vision of Obadiah. This is what the Sovereign LORD says about Edom—We have heard a message from the LORD: An envoy was sent to the nations to say, “Rise, let us go against her for battle”— 2 “See, I will make you small among the nations; you will be utterly despised. 3 The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks[a] and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’4 Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” declares the LORD. Obadiah's message primarily focuses on God's judgment against the nation of Edom. Historical context B. **:** Historical backdrop of Obadiah's prophecy, which centers on the longstanding conflict between Edom and Judah. Genesis 25: 21-24 Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was childless. The LORD answered his prayer, and his wife Rebekah became pregnant. 22 The babies jostled each other within her, and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” So she went to inquire of the LORD. 23 The LORD said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” Conflict during the time of Obediah Obadiah's vision and message, particularly highlighting the pride of Edom. B. **Analyze Obadiah's message:** - Discuss how pride can blind individuals and nations to their shortcomings, leading to their downfall. - Reference Proverbs 16:18 ("Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall") to underscore the danger of pride. - James 4:6 ("God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble") to emphasize the importance of humility in our relationship with God. **III. The Day of the Lord A. Obadiah 1: 15-16 For the day of the LORD is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your deeds shall return on your own head. 16 For as you have drunk on my holy mountain, so all the nations shall drink continually; they shall drink and swallow, and shall be as though they had never been. - Highlight the prophecy of "The Day of the Lord," a time of reckoning and divine judgment. B. **Explain the concept of "The Day of the Lord":** - Describe how this concept appears throughout the Bible as a day of God's ultimate justice and intervention. Refer to Joel 3: 1-7 - God's justice provides comfort and hope for the oppressed. - Reference Psalm 9:8 ("He will judge the world in righteousness; he will govern the peoples with justice") to illustrate the concept. - Isaiah 2:12 ("The LORD Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted") to connect with the theme of pride and God's ultimate judgment. **IV. Application and Reflection A. **Challenge for self-reflection:** Examine our own lives for signs of pride, such as arrogance, self-sufficiency, or unwillingness to admit mistakes. B. **Encourage humility:** Practical steps for cultivating humility, such as practicing gratitude, seeking God's guidance through prayer, and learning from the example of Jesus. C. **Reassurance of God's justice:** - Remind the congregation that God's justice is certain and that the oppressed can find hope and solace in His righteous judgment. **Conclusion - Summarize the key points of the lesson: the historical context of Obadiah, the dangers of pride, the importance of humility, and the assurance of God's justice. -. -.

  • Message: “What is the Purpose of JICF” from Joe Summers

    A message from the series "Sunday Service." What is the Purpose of Jinan International Christian Fellowship Lesson Objective: To discuss the purpose of Jinan ICF and demonstrate ways where the Church meets the purposes Scripture: Matthew 20:28 and Mark 10:45 Introduction a. How many people go through life trying to “what we call” find their purpose in life? b. Church is actually a collection of people and thus should have a shared purpose so that all can come together as one body in one shared vision. c. It is important that all understand and share this vision Purpose 1 1. Be a place where Christians can come together and worship God and upbuild each other in Christian love - **Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV):** "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." - **Matthew 18:20 (NIV):** "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - **1 Corinthians 14:26 (NIV): "What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up." How do we accomplish this purpose? • Sunday service • Weekly Bible Studies • Website • Podcast • Fellowship outings such as game nights Purpose 2 2. Develop leaders - **2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV):** "And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others." - **Ephesians 4:11-13 (NIV):** "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ." - **1 Peter 5:2-3 (NIV):** "Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV): "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." How do we accomplish this purpose? • Bible Institute • Young Ministers Group • Leadership Seminar Purpose 3 3. Provide mission support in other countries - **Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV):** "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - **Acts 1:8 (NIV):** "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." - **Psalm 96:3 (NIV):** "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." How do we accomplish this purpose? • Sponsor school in Kenya • Sponsor school in Ghana • Assist health care activities in Nigeria • Contribute to outreach activities in Tanzania Other Activities Pig farm and crop farming in Botswana Pig farming and crop farming in Kenya