• Message: “The Need for Change: Biblical Perspectives” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Title: The Need for Change: Biblical Perspectives Lesson Objective: To look at change as a positive and how to deal with the challenges of changes in our lives Scripture: - Romans 12:2 (NIV) "Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will." Introduction: Definition of Change: an act or process through which something becomes different: Why Change: 1) One is seeking a better outcome 2) Improving on good results to enhance efficiency What happens when there is no change: 1) First and foremost, in most cases a living thing dies if there is no changes. a. Some call this evolution. No change or adaptation leads to extinction b. A Church can spiritually die if there is no change to meet the needs of the members 2) No change can encourage competition a. The story of Henry Ford and the Model T ford Sometimes Change can be force on us by the environment a. Pandemic forced many to accept technology like Zoom and the internet b. Forced companies to encourage people to work from home c. Changed educational delivery model Scripture References for necessity for change Change as a Constant in Life Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (NIV) "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace." a. Life by definition is changes as identified in this passage b. One cannot define most things without looking at the opposite to clearly understand Changes through Renewal - Romans 12:2 (NIV) "Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will." - This scripture encourages us to change our way of thinking. Embracing Change with Faith - 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV) "For we live by faith, not by sight." - The Bible teaches us that we cannot have changes in our lives without living by faith, trusting God's plan even in the face of change. Letting Go of the Past - Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV) "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Change can be difficult when we refuse to let go of the past Sometimes we hold on to the past even when it is painful Sometimes we should remember the past so that we do not make the same mistakes The Power of Repentance - Acts 3:19 (NIV) "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord." - Seeking repentance can lead to positive change and spiritual refreshment. A New Creation in Christ - 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - Change is not necessarily 180 degrees and certainly not 360 degrees but change is a new you Humility and Change - James 4:10 (NIV) "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." - humility is essential in embracing change and allowing God's transformation in our lives. Embracing God's Plans - Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Explore God's promise of a hopeful future, encouraging us to trust His plans during times of change. Overcoming Fear through Faith - Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Faith in God's presence helps us overcome fear in times of change. We change so that we can bear fruit - John 15:1-2 (NIV) "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit, he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful." God's Faithfulness in Change - Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) "Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." God's faithfulness and compassion as a source of hope in times of change. Transformation through the Holy Spirit - 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." The Holy Spirit works within believers to bring about transformation into Christlikeness. Embracing God's Instruction in times of change - Psalm 119:105 (NIV) "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." The importance of God's Word in guiding us through changes in life. Sometimes change means embracing the past The Parable of the Prodigal Son - Luke 15:11-24 (NIV) The parable of the Prodigal Son as an example of repentance, change, and the Father's unconditional love and forgiveness. Embracing Change as a Believer - Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV) "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, 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, the pioneer, and perfecter of faith." Embrace change with perseverance, focusing on Christ as the ultimate example. Transforming Relationships - Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV) "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." - Biblical principles can transform our relationships and foster positive change. Conclusion - Remember that Change is necessary and expected. We must embrace change - We must embrace change with faith and trust in God's plan for Our lives. Doing the same thing and expecting different results is insanity -

• Message: “What is Your Jordan” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." What is Your Jordan? Lesson Objective: To understand that we all have challenges that we must face but the victory is on the other side. Scripture: Joshua 1:1-9, Proverbs 3:6, Isa 58:11-12 Introduction: A. When we have challenges, we often times become fearful and hesitate or even stop because we do not know what to do. Sometimes people call it “like a deer in a headlight” B. The fact of the matter is that nothing to fear but fear it self C. The phrase “we have nothing to fear but fear itself” was said by Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, in his first inaugural address on March 4, 1933. He used it to inspire hope and courage during the Great Depression. D. This is applicable today as well for we often do not go outside of our comfort zone due to fear of failure E. What are you afraid of because we all have our fears. Joshua Joshua 1: 1-6 1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5 No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them A. God made a promise to Joshua B. Provided words of encouragement Joshua 1: 7-9 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” A. There is some expectations that comes with the promise. a. God expects Joshua to keep his commandments b. God expects Joshua to meditate daily on the instructions from God c. God expects Joshua not to be afraid B. What do you think would have happened if Joshua had failed the expectations Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. A. What are some factors that causes us not to submit to the instructions from God a. Fear of failure b. EGO (Edging God Out) c. Listening to others B. How does submitting to God make life so much easier a. Helps us to make better decisions b. Removes the temptation of sin C. This verse reminds us of the importance of relying on God's wisdom and guidance in our lives Isaiah 58:11-12 11 The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. 12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings. A. Why is it important to have a guide when traveling? a. The guide knows where the danger lies b. The guide knows what to do when danger does appear B. This passage conveys the message that when we align ourselves with God's will and live according to His principles, He will provide for us, empower us, and use us to bring healing and restoration to our surroundings. Summary A. We all have a life changing decision to make a. Live a life in fear of making mistakes and choosing what the world may say is the safest route b. We can submit to God and follow him c. Live a life of courage and knowing that God is in control and we need not worry B. Overall, these verses encourage us to be strong and courageous, trust in God's guidance, and live in obedience to His commands. With faith in God, we can overcome challenges, make wise decisions, and experience His blessings in our lives. C. Everyone has a Jordan but remember success is on the other side

• Message: ” Divine Guidance and Direction” from Min Oluleke

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." TITLE: Divine Guidance and Direction Objectives 1) To establish the importance of divine guidance and direction 2) To teach how to walk in divine guidance and direction Scriptures Isaiah 48:17-18 (NKJV) 17 Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go. 18 Oh, that you had heeded My commandments! Then your peace would have been like a river, And your righteousness like the waves of the sea. A. Introduction: i) Story of David 1 Samuel 23:1-12 ii) The ability that God did not give to man. Jeremiah 10:23, - God did not give man the ability to direct his own steps. - Only Him can direct us - our cognitive abilities cannot handle that dimension of life. B. How God Guides and Directs Us 1) His word: Psalm 119:105, Psalm 138:2 2) Inward witness: Rom. 8:14-16 3) Godly people: ministers of God, godly parents (Ephesians 6:1), mentors, believers/Christians, strangers 4) Nature and things created: e.g donkey, order/beauty of nature (Rom. 1:20) 5) Ordering our steps - unknowingly. Proverbs 20:24, Psalm 37:23. Saul when searching for lost donkeys (1 Sam. 9:15-16; 1-14) 6) Circumstances (good/bad), problems/afflictions/failures/attacks/losses, pattern of events, Psalm 119:67,71 7) Sensational methods: visions (open, closed, trances), revelations, dreams, the audible voice of the Holy Spirit, encounters with angels in human form 8) Other supernatural methods: gentle voice of the Sprit, conviction, inner knowing, boldness C. How to Walk in Divine Guidance and Direction 1) Be a child of God Romans 8:14 2) Please and obey the Lord always. Be spiritual, not carnal (1 Cor. 2:14-15, Colossians 3:1-2) 3) Regular spiritual diligence/sacrifice: fasting, praying, worship/praising, giving Acts 10:30 4) Purposeful separation: Hosea 6:3, Prov. 18:1, Daniel 9:2-3, Hab. 2:1-2 5) Enquiry prayers: 1 Samuel 30:8 6) If you do not get a specific clear direction, BE PERSISTENT and TRUST God to order your steps. He will! D. CONCLUSION - God did not give man the ability to direct his own steps. - He is very happy to guide and direct us. - Do not settle for guessing your way through life. - Be diligent: actively seek divine guidance and direction.

• Message: “Life of Jesus- Prayer” from Min Jean

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Luke 3 21 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” The title of my Message: Prayer life of Jesus specifically the fact that Jesus pray Jesus prayed alone. Luke 5:16 reads, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Psalm 46:10 reads, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Most Relevant Verses (29) Hebrews 5:7 In the days of His flesh, He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His piety. Luke 3:21 Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus was also baptized, and while He was praying, heaven was opened, Matthew 14:23 After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. Mark 6:46 After bidding them farewell, He left for the mountain to pray. Luke 6:12 It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God. Mark 1:35 In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there. Luke 5:16 But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. Luke 9:18 And it happened that while He was praying alone, the disciples were with Him, and He questioned them, saying, “Who do the people say that I am?” Matthew 26:36 Then Jesus *came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and *said to His disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” Matthew 26:39 And He went a little beyond them, and fell on His face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will.” Matthew 26:42 He went away again a second time and prayed, saying, “My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” Matthew 26:44 And He left them again, and went away and prayed a third time, saying the same thing once more. Mark 14:32 They *came to a place named Gethsemane; and He *said to His disciples, “Sit here until I have prayed.” Mark 14:35 And He went a little beyond them, and fell to the ground and began to pray that if it were possible, the hour might pass Him by. Mark 14:39 Again He went away and prayed, saying the same words. Luke 11:1 It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples.” Matthew 14:19 Ordering the people to sit down on the grass, He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food, and breaking the loaves He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds, Matthew 19:13 Then some children were brought to Him so that He might lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. Matthew 26:53 Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels? John 17:9 I ask on their behalf; I do not ask on behalf of the world, but of those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours; John 17:20 “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word; Luke 22:32 but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” Genesis 3:8 New International Version 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. John 17:11 New International Version 11 I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of[a] your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one. Genesis 2:24 New International Version 24 That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. Luke 3:21 New International Version 21 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened Hebrews 5:7, 8, 9 In the days of His flesh, He offered up both prayers and supplications with loud crying and tears to the One able to save Him from death, and He was heard because of His piety. 8.Son though he was, he learned obedience from what he suffered. 9 and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him What a Friend We Have in Jesus What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer. Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In His arms He'll take and shield you; you will find a solace there. Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer. Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

• Message: “God’s Love” from Min Clarence

  A message from the series "Sunday Service."

• Message: “Trust and Obey” from Min Manuel

  A message from the series "Sunday Service."

• Message: “Submit to God’s Will” from Min. Blessing

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Sermon (JICF) Sunday 25 June 2023 By Blessing Mugwambi Submit to God’s Will If we submit to God’s will, the word of God will gain access to our hearts without limitations and it will dwell so mighty in us that we will have good understanding and discernment which will keep us away from the confusions of this world. Psalm 119:130  KJV. The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple  AMPC. The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple. Sometimes Satan leads people to think that some of the things in the Bible are not true or correct, and it makes people to withhold their submission to God. Psalm 19:8  The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.  Statute means a law that has been formally approved and written down.  Synonyms; law, rule, regulation, precept, ordinance, canon mean a principle governing action or procedure.  All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) True submission to God will build you strong and make you wise. Acts 20:32  And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.  Open your heart to be raised by the Word. Receive with meekness the love, hope, faith, power, prosperity, truth, strength, soundness of mind and body that the Word brings to you. Embrace the Word, which is able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah! We should delight in complete submition to God  Psalm 40:7-8  ...Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will...  God loves you more than you love yourself. He knows what’s best for you and always wants the best for you. Therefore, you can trust Him with your life. Only if you can completely submit to God then you will enjoy the benefits. Isaiah 1:19  If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land;  (The Living Bible) “If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich!”  1 Peter 3:10  For the Scriptures say, “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.  When you know Him, you’re at rest. You discover that He’s more passionate for your success than you could ever be. When you truly know Him, you can completely submit to His choices and follow His Word wholeheartedly.  Have confidence in His love. Dare to believe Him, and submit to the destiny that He’s chosen for you. It’s a unique destiny. And in His Word, He’s laid out the blueprint for your life: how you should live. Follow His Word, for that’s how you submit to His will. His Word is His will expressed.  If you don’t submit to Him, are you not frightened of what your tomorrow will be like?  Psalm 62:5-6  "Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken." When Jesus prayed, He submitted himself completely that he asked for God’s will to take place. Luke 22:41-42  And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, 42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.  Everything that you do, is it your will or it’s God’s?  Allow yourself to be educated, natured, and cultured by the word of God, such that every little thing that you can do, and every little word that you can say can be connected with the word of God.  Soak yourself deeply in the word of God that every cell of your body and everything that concerns you gets charged by His presence in your life. For us to be able to completely submit to God, we should be ble to meditate on God’s word, day in and day out. Joshua 1:8  This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. When you allow the word of God to dwell wholly in you, only then will you start to think in a way directed by the Holy Spirit. You will not entertaine wrong thoughts. At a certain point, Jesus asked some people, why do such wrong thoughts come in your minds. He asked because those people were not submissive to the word of God.  Matthew 9:4  Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts? Our way of life should be consistent with God’s desires for us, and not our desires for how God should deal with our matters. Only if we know God’s faithfulness, His grate plans for us, how much he loves us more than we love ourselves, and how much he cares for every little detail about our lives, only then can we completely submit to Him without any limitation because we will know God is always on our side to surport us in whatever situation.

• Message: “Sin” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Sin Lesson Objective: To discuss sin, the steps to sin and how to avoid sin. What happens after sin Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10: 13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. 1 John 1: 8-10 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us. Introduction: Sin Definition: a. Sin is a word that describes any thought or action that goes against the will of God b. James 4:17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them A sin of omission is when you fail to do something that you should have done, like helping someone in need or telling the truth c. A sin of commission is when you do something that you shouldn't have done, like stealing or lying. d. God wants us to avoid both sins of omission and commission How to identify what is or is not a sin Questions to ask ourselves a. - Is it definitely good and beneficial for me and others? b. - Can I honestly ask God to bless and use it for His own good purposes? c. - Does it glorify God? d. Does it harmfully influence or affect someone else? e. - Does it have undue control over my life? Pattern of Sin Process a. Being in the wrong place ( Eve standing next to the tree) a. Is it ok to go to bars? b. Is it ok to go to parties where you know there may be illicit acts? b. Listening to non-spiritual voices (Eve enters into conversation with Satan c. Looking at the item with our eyes and not with our hearts d. Accepting the temptation to sin e. Committing the sin f. Enticing others to sin The best ways not to sin a. Matthew 6: 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: b. Psalms 19: 14 May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. c. 1 Corinthians 10: 13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it What do we do when we sin a. Doubt God Genesis 3: 1 Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the LORD God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” b. Disobey God Genesis 3: 6 When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. c. Deny God ( try to hide from God) Genesis 3: 8 Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. d. Blame Others: (Genesis 3:12)The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. What should we do when we sin a. (I John 1:9) If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. b. 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. Conclusion We do not need to be slaves to sin. Christ paid the price of our freedom Romans 6:16 Do you not know that when you offer yourselves as obedient slaves, you are slaves to the one you obey, whether you are slaves to sin leading to death, or to obedience leading to righteousness? 2 Peter 2:19 They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves to depravity. For a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him John 8: 10-12 Then Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?” 11“No one, Lord,” she answered. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Now go and sin no more.” 12Once again, Jesus spoke to the people and said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life.”

• Message: “Words of Wisdom to Live By” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Words of Wisdom to Live By Lesson Objective: To discuss a few points of wisdom as written by King Solomon Scripture: Proverbs Chapter 15 Introduction 1. Do we take the time to listen to wisdom? 2. Are we busy just asking questions? a. Closed questions b. Open questions Points to ponder: 15: 1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger a. Should we always tell the truth? b. Explain stone sharpens stone 15:10 Stern discipline awaits anyone who leaves the path; the one who hates correction will die a. Do you readily provide discipline? b. Do you readily accept discipline? 15: 18 A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel. a. How does this compare to the definition of love? b. How does this compare to fruit of the Spirit? 15: 19 The way of the sluggard is blocked with thorns, but the path of the upright is a highway. a. Please give examples of thorns b. Why is the path of upright a highway? 15:22 Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed a. Is it possible to have too many advisors? b. How can we use advisors incorrectly? 15:28 The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil. a. What are some of the results of weighing answers? b. What are some results when speaking in haste? c. Does someone who speaks quickly always speak evil? Summary What can we learn from following some of the words of wisdom discussed in Chapter 15?

• Message: “Are You an Active Member in the Army of God” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Sunday Service." Are you an Active Member in the Army of God? Lesson Objective: To discuss the requirements to be an active member of God’s Army and what attributes do we have that will allow us to be great soldiers. Scripture: 2 Timothy 2: 1-4 You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 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. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer Introduction. Military definitions: Civilian: One who is not nor has ever been a part of the military. Or one who has in the past but is no longer obligated to serve in the military Reservist: One who has been trained in the military but is not active but remains obligated and can be called to action when needed. Active Duty: One who has received training and is currently obligated to serve wherever assigned. Biblical Reference Civilian: One who never accepted Christ and has no training in the spiritual warfare Reservist: One who accepted Christ and received some training but does not use that training in their daily lives. They may be waiting for the time that they are called to action Active Duty: One who has accepted Christ, received the training and actively seeks the opportunity to carry out the orders of the commander In chief. They train daily with the task at hand and eagerly look for more to come. Attributes of active- duty personnel 1. Courageous- a. Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” b. 1 Chronicles 28:20 David also said to Solomon his son, “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished c. Psalms 31: 24 Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD • How do we demonstrate courage? • How do we react when we re afraid? 、 2. Obedient- a. Ephesians 6: 1-3 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise—3 “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” b. John 15:14 You are my friends if you do what I command c. 2 John 1:6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love i. Who are our parents in Ephesians 6: and also in the fifth commandment? ii. How does love reflect obedience? 、 3. Romans 12: 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully. a. Encourager- Barnabas i. Acts 13:7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God ii. Acts 13:13 From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga iii. Acts 14:1 Acts 14:1 At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue 1. Why is it important for a good soldier to be an encourager? 2. Is it a natural response by most people? 3. When can it become unnatural? Look at a few other traits necessary for a good soldier and find appropriate scripture to demonstrate the requirement for such. b. Giver c. Leader d. Show mercy Group sharing time and summary