• Message: “Making Sense of the Six Senses” from Pastor Joe

  Making Sense of the Six Senses  Lesson Objective: To understand how we can use our God-given senses to successfully maneuver through this journey called life. Scripture: Galatians 5:16, 16But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh Introduction- The five senses taught in school The five senses and the related body parts Taste/speak -- mouth Hear- ears Feel/touch- fingers/hand See- eyes Smell- Nose The monkey- see no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil Explanation of the Five senses Mouth- Learn to just say no Scripture: Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. “Learn to say: ‘no’.” There are times when we should just no and not waiver Somethings we can try and say I do not like Somethings are definitely harmful Do not play with matches, you will get burned or worst Saying the simple two-letter word “no” can lead to a life of happiness. The Eyes “Stay content and do not let the eyes wonder  Scripture: Psalm 119:37, 37Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways Lesson Objective: It is very difficult to walk a straight line if you are not looking straight ahead. Learn to be content with what you have. There is no greater lesson Think twice before wanting something that you really do not need.   Nose “Stay out of other’s business Scripture: Proverbs 26:17, Interfering in someone else’s argument is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears. Lesson Objective: Some things are just not our concern Many times, I have found myself tending to others’ business when I should be dealing with my own issues Because of this, we can cause an issue to escalate when it may not have if we had just kept walking. People tend to act more aggressively when they think that others are watching Should we listen to the concerns of others when asked? Yes. But that does not mean involving ourselves in the business of others uninvited Lastly, there are some places where you never want to be such as between mother and child or between other family members in an argument No matter how well-meaning, you will never win, So, stay out of it. Remember we have enough trouble without looking for it by sticking our nose where it does not belong     Ears “Do you hear and listen?”  Lesson Objective: The importance of cleaning out our ears so we can truly hear.  Scripture: Proverbs 18:15, 15The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge, And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”   — Stephen R. Covey. “When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.” Ernest Hemingway. “I remind myself every morning: Nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I’m going to learn, I must do it by listening.”       — Larry King, CNN. Listening with our ears and eyes and heart is one of the most underrated learning tools that one can have. We all learn to talk but we seldom are taught how to listen. One could argue that listening is more important than talking. I always say that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. I also read that God made it so we can close our mouths, but our ears are to remain open. Many people just want to be heard when they are having problems. They are not seeking solutions but just want to be heard. Are you a good listener? Hands “Helping hands.” Lesson Objective: The willingness to help others is vital for Christians. Scripture: Acts 20:35, 35In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Our hands are interesting tools.  They have two basic positions. One is closed like a fist and the other is opened to helping others and ourselves. In our world today we often time value hard work so that we can reap our reward and then close our fists and hold on to it as tight as we can. I have reread the scripture above and I have taken a different perspective on its meaning. One can be blessed and not need a handout, or one can be the one that is in need of a handout. So, the blessing is not in the giving, but the blessing is being in a position of being able to give to those who are in need. What is the Sixth Sense??? Scripture: Keep watching and praying that you may not come into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Romans 4:19 The sixth sense is the Holy Spirit This sense can control the others if you allow it to Summary Allow the Holy Spirit to control the other senses. The Holy Spirit has more power You can live without one or even more than one of the 5 senses but you cannot live a God-fulfilled life without the Holy Spirit

• Message: “Who or what is the Holy Spirit”

  Who or What is the Holy Spirit? Lesson Objective: This is the third and final installment in the series that discusses what many refer to as the Holy Trinity. This lesson will answer some of the questions surrounding Who or what is the Holy Spirit. Scripture: John 14: 15-17 15 “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.   Introduction The Holy Spirit of God (Trinity) was there from the beginning – Genesis 1:1, In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. 2 Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the (Holy) Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. The Holy Spirit was there when man was created- Genesis 1: Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” The question we asked when we want to really know the person is “Who?” Tall /short describes the person but does not say who the person is In order to answer the question of who, we must look inside Acts 13: 22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’ “What” may define the object i.e. What was David? He was a man and he was king but does not define who The proper question is who not what. The Holy Spirit is a person and we were created in his image The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament Holy Spirit (Trinity) at time of creation- Job 26:13 By His Spirit He adorned the heavens; His hand pierced the fleeing serpent Holy Spirit working through Joshua Numbers 27:18 And the Lord said to Moses: “Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him; Othniel Judges 3:10 The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he judged Israel. He went out to war, and the Lord delivered Cushan-Rishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed over Cushan-Rishathaim. Saul’s disobedience caused the Spirit to leave him. 1 Samuel 16:14 But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a distressing spirit from the Lord troubled him Foretelling of the Messiah Isaiah 61: 1 “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; Messiah arrives in Nazareth but not accepted. Luke 4: 16-2020 Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. 21 And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament Holy Spirit abounds around and in us John 14: 16-17 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17 This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him because he abides with you, and he will bein Holy Spirit at the baptism of Christ- John 1: 32-34 John testified saying, "I have seen the Spirit descending as a dove out of heaven, and He remained upon Him. 33) "I did not recognize Him, but He who sent me to baptize in water said to me, 'He upon whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining upon Him, this is the One who baptizes in the Holy Spirit.' 34) "I myself have seen, and have testified that this is the Son of God." Baptized as instructed by Christ- Matthew 28: 20 Go [a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Power of the Holy Spirit- John 1: 7-8 He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or epochs which the Father has fixed by His own authority;8) but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Day of Pentecost Acts 2: When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2) And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3) And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. 4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance Baptism of the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. Acts: 1-5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now (Spoken by Christ) Acts 19: 1-5And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples 2 he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.” 4 Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.” 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied Gifts of the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 12: 8-10 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit,9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues. Speaking in tongues may be the most controversial of the gifts Unforgivable sin- Mark 3: 22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem were saying, “He is possessed by Beelzebul,” and “by the prince of demons he casts out the demons Mark 3:28 Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter,29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin”— 30 for they were saying, “He has an unclean spirit. Blaspheme is choosing to ignore the conviction of the Holy Spirit Another definition is calling God (Holy Spirit) the devil The Holy Spirit Today – What is the purpose of the Holy Spirit Now? In the Old Testament we had instances where the Holy Spirit was with a select group of people for a particular task and not ongoing. In the New Testament we find that after the death and resurrection of Christ all believers received the Holy Spirit. Today we all have the benefit of the Holy Spirit Summary The Holy Spirit is a “Who” not a what Many would say that The Holy Spirit is God The Holy Spirit gives us spiritual power The Holy Spirit serves as our guiding post The Holy Spirit is an advocate for us with God The Holy Spirit will remain with us as long as we so choose  

• Message: “Who is Jesus Christ ?” from Pastor Joe

  Who Is Jesus Christ? Lesson Objective: This lesson is a follow-up to the previous lesson “Who Is God”. In this lesson, we will look at who Jesus Christ is from the perspective of God, Christ, and Biblical writers. Scripture: John 1:1-3  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son[d] from the Father, full of grace and truth. Background The question of who is Jesus Christ is very complex and can be divisive Jesus is the name given to Mary by the Angel Gabriel Luke 1:30 Yeshua means saviour Christ is Greek for the anointed one or appointed one similar to Messiah  (King) Some believe that Christ is God (A different form but the oneness of God) Some believe that Christ is a separate being but possesses the spirit of God and thus is in complete agreement with God (Mormons among others) Some believe in Christ as a prophet (Jews and Muslims)   Who is Jesus Christ? What does God say? Matthew 3: 13-16   Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14 But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” 15 Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” All three forms of God present Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Genesis 3: 14-15 So the Lord God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this “Cursed are you above all livestock and all wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and you will eat dust all the days of your life. 15 And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring[a] and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Christ is the enmity The biblical definition of Son of God- Occurs about 43 times in New Testament and refers to Jesus as “God” Other thoughts: Job 2:1 Again there was a day when the sons of Godcame to present themselves before the LORD, and Satancame also among them to present himself before the (Angels) What does Jesus say John 10: 27-30 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all[a]; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.” John 10: 37-38 Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. 38 But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” John 14: 5-7 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him John 14: 8-9 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. 9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? What does Satan say Matthew 4:6 If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “’He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” Matthew 8: 28-29 and when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way.29 And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? Luke 4: 41 And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ Other Bible Verses Scripture: John 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son[d] from the Father, full of grace and truth. Luke 7:49 Those who were reclining at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this man who even forgives sins?” John 8:25; Luke9:20; Mark 15:2 Summary - Who Is Christ Saviour King Prophet Healer Peacemaker Waymaker Miracle worker    

• Message: “Who Is God?” from Pastor Joe

  Whom is This Being Called God?  Lesson Objective: To look at several of the attributes of the God that I so willingly serve Scripture: Zephaniah 3:17, The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. God is my creator- Scripture: Genesis 1:27 So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. Create means to form from nothing,, Hebrew word Elohim bara God Is My Caretaker Scripture: Zephaniah 3:17, The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. Psalms 91: 2-4 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. God watches over us at all times God cares for us with the big things and the little things God is my Rewarder. Scripture: Hebrews 6:10, God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them God rewards his faithful servants like King Hezekiah We are to reward by demonstrating love by how we treat others God will never forsake those who are faithful. He sees your love at work God is a Peacemaker Scripture:James 3:17-18, The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness The Bible attaches peacemakers to righteousness - because they go hand in hand. Today the world is filled with strife with little signs of peace. It is important that we serve as peacemakers in our circle of influence so that others can see God in us. This peacemaking is reflected in our choice of words and actions. Please remember that in a court of law - you are just as guilty as the person who committed the crime if you accompanied them during the criminal activity, or even if you knew of the impending crime and did nothing to impede it God is an Uniter Scripture: Romans 15:5-6, May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ Too much time spent discussing differences and not enough on things that unite. The problem is that we have forgotten that all the gifts are needed and that no one gift is more important than another. The gifts come from the same Oneness in Spirit Jesus prayed we would be one so that the world would know that God sent Jesus into the world as his Son (John 17). Two working together is more powerful than two working as separate individuals Unity comes from God's Spirit as we follow Jesus, but, unity has a purpose much deeper than our “getting along with each other”. God Is My Protector Scripture: Psalm 91:1, “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” The question is: “how do we go forward with all of this uncertainty and fear?” The answer is God. He promises to protect us from dangers seen and unseen. Remember the three Hebrew Boys in Daniel 3. “God can deliver if He so chooses but even if He does not, I will not forsake Him.” Summary  - Who Is God Creator Rewarder Peacemaker Uniter Protector What is He to you????? ( Who is God to You?)   .

• Message: “Why Do We Do What We Do” from Pastor Joe

  Why Do We Do What We Do? Lesson Objective: To look at examples of actions that occurred in the bible and try to explain why so we can learn Scriptures:  Colossians 3:23-24, 23Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving Introduction: What questions should normally be answered when explaining a story or an event: Who                                      Me What                                     I did something either good or bad When                                    Yesterday Where                                  At work/at home/at school/on the bus Why                                       Do Not Know ??????????  ( difficult question to answer)   Let’s look at some stories in the Bible using this approach   Story one Galatians 2: 11-13 But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong. 12 When he first arrived, he ate with the Gentile believers, who were not circumcised. But afterward, when some friends of James came, Peter wouldn’t eat with the Gentiles anymore. He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision. 13 As a result, other Jewish believers followed Peter’s hypocrisy, and even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy.   Who: Peter What: Refused to eat with the Gentiles When: After preaching to the Gentiles and accepting them as believers Where: Antioch Why: He was afraid of what others would say Life Application: We must be careful not to do things just to please others. Also know that our actions can and will influence others Story 2 Esther 4: 13-14, 13“Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther: think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews.” 14“For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Who Esther What Went before the king to save the people When While the children of Israel were in captivity Where In capital city of Persia Why Because it was the right thing to do Life Application: We never know what situation we will be in where we must choose to do the right thing. (If not me then who and if not now then when) Story three John 12: 4-6 But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.[b]” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it WhoJudas What Complained about Mary using perfume When Christ had come to visit Mary and Martha and Lazarus Where: In their house Why: For the love of money Life Application: The Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil. How many times do we make decisions based on money?   Story four Acts: 7: 54-60 When the members of the Sanhedrin heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” 57 At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58 dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their coats at the feet of a young man named Saul. 59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. Who Stephen What Preached was killed When After the resurrection of Christ and before the change in Saul Where: Before the Sanhedrin (public trial) Why: Because he loved Christ and was willing to witness for him Life Application: We must be willing to suffer adversity as a witness for Christ Summary We must think about why we are doing something before we do it People on the outside may not be able to answer the why but we can I think we can safely say that Stephen did what he did because he loved Christ and had developed a relationship with him      

• Message: “Life of Abundance” from Elder Clarence

  Living a life of Abundance Theme Scripture: John 10 v 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. Questions we hope to answer with this sermon What is a life of Abundance? How do we life this life of abundance? Recognising the thief (as in the context of John 10 v 10) Abundance means ample quantity or relative plentifulness   What is success and prosperity according to the Bible. Joshua 1 v 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. For a long time I believed that the prosperity as stated in Joshua 1 v 8 was referring to getting into Canaan. Joshua 1 v 3 I have given you every place on which the sole of your foot treads, just as I promised to Moses. From this verse I learn that Canaan is not prosperity the presence of God is   What is a life of abundance? 3 John 1 v 2  Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually]. 3 For I was greatly pleased when [some of the] brothers came [from time to time] and testified to your [faithfulness to the] truth [of the gospel message], that is, how you are walking in truth. 4 I have no greater joy than this, to hear that my [spiritual] children are living [their lives] in the truth. The are many facets that make up our life. Our health, wealth, Spiritual growth, relationships abundance is having every aspect of our life grow as intended by God. Doing well (well as in what God wants) in each of these facets is abundance.         How to live a live of abundance? John 9 v 39 And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind. Value is determined by belief or perception. Is Christ enough to give you all you desire? Abundance is not function of what we do but rather a function of grace. We to let go and let God John 10 v 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.   What Abundance looks like Colossians 3 v 1-2 : set your mind on things above, having ample quantity of things above, canal eyes can not see success. Psalm 127 v 1 – 2 Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. 2 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep. John 14 v 27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.   So What? Stop settling for what is less, close your eyes and listen to the voice of your shepherd. Train to win this race by meditating on the Word of God day and night Pray without ceasing Who is the Thief? 2 Corinthians 10 v 3 - 5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

• Message: “Study of David Part V” from Pastor Joe

  Study of David – Part V   The purpose of this lesson is to continue to examine the life of David and how we can apply his experiences to our lives today. This is the last of the series that examines David’s life as King of Israel.   Scriptures: 2 Samuel Chapters 6-19   Memory Verse: The 23rd Psalm A Psalm of David-  ( Try and remember the entire Psalm)   Chapter 6 - David begins to transfer the ark The story of Uzzah and his death for touching the ark- verses 3-7 And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that was in Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, guiding the new cart. 4 And they brought it out of the house of Abinadab which was at Gibeah, accompanying the ark of God: and Ahio went before the ark. 5 And David and all the house of Israel played before the Lord on all manner of instruments made of fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals. 6 And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. 7 And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.   David shows his not understanding by getting angry- verse 8-9 And David was displeased, because the Lord had made a breach upon Uzzah: and he called the name of the place Perezuzzah to this day. 9 And David was afraid of the Lord that day, and said, How shall the ark of the Lord come to me? How can our zeal get in the way of God’s will?       David begins to understand the will of God – verses 11-12 And the ark of the Lord continued in the house of Obededom the Gittite three months: and the Lord blessed Obededom, and all his household. 12 And it was told king David, saying, The Lord hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that pertaineth unto him, because of the ark of God. So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obededom into the city of David with gladness. David dances before the ark. Verse 14 And David danced before the Lord with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod .Chapter 7-9- David seeks to build temple for the ark David ask Nathan if he should build temple. - verses 1-3 And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the Lord had given him rest round about from all his enemies;  That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.  And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the Lord is with thee. 2. Nathan receives answer from God for David- and God makes covenant with David Verses 12-16 And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.  I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:  But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee. And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever David shows humility to God - verse 21-22 For thy word's sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all these great things, to make thy servant know them.  Wherefore thou art great, O Lord God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears. David upholds vow with Jonathan Chapter 9 Rewards Mephibosheth son of Jonathan who was cripple Verses 1-3 And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?  And there was of the house of Saul a servant whose name was Ziba. And when they had called him unto David, the king said unto him, Art thou Ziba? And he said, Thy servant is he.  And the king said, Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may shew the kindness of God unto him? And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan hath yet a son, which is lame on his feet.   Verses 5-7  Then king David sent, and fetched him out of the house of Machir, the son of Ammiel, from Lodebar.  Now when Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence. And David said, Mephibosheth. And he answered, Behold thy servant!  And David said unto him, Fear not: for I will surely shew thee kindness for Jonathan thy father's sake, and will restore thee all the land of Saul thy father; and thou shalt eat bread at my table continually. Chapter 11- David’s encounter with Bathsheba David is not satisfied with his wives- 2 Samuel 5: 12-13 David lust for Bathsheba -  Chapter 11: 2-3 Bathsheba announces that she is pregnant- 11: 5 David attempts to fool Uriah- 11: 6-13 David has Uriah murdered- 11: 14-17   E. Chapter 12- David pays the price for his sin Nathan has discussion with David – verses 1-4 Nathan does not attack David directly but uses a parable And the Lord sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds:  But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.  And there came a traveler unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.   David speaks before he thinks- verse 5-6   And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the Lord liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: 6 And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.   Nathan then explains parable for David – verse 7-10 10)Now, therefore, the sword will never depart from your house, because you despised me and took the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your own.’ David is cursed by God- Verses 11-12 This is what the LORD says: ‘Out of your own household I am going to bring calamity on you. Before your very eyes I will take your wives and give them to one who is close to you, and he will sleep with your wives in broad daylight. 12 You did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad daylight before all Israel   David Repents from his sin but faces the death of his son- Verse 13-14 Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.” Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. 14 But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for[a] the Lord, the son born to you will die.”   Refer to Psalms 51 and 32 David ask God to spare his son- Verse 15-17 David reacts to the death of his son (stops fasting and begins to eat)-  Verse 19-23   Chapter 13- David’s family trouble begins Amnon lusted after the sister of Absamlom- Verses 1-2 Amnon raped her and then sent her away- 10-20 Absamlom kills Amnon- Verse 28   Chapter 14-18 Absalom conspires against David David is convinced to bring Absalom back to Jerusalem ( by Joab)-  Chapter 14 Absalom revolts against David- Chapter 15: 7-12 Joab kills Absalom Chapter 18: 10-14 David wept for Absalom- 18:33   Chapter 19- David mourns Absalom and Israel continue to be separate Joab does not understand why David morns- Verse 1-6 David is continued to be tormented by his affair with Bathsheba.   Summary David learned to love the Lord at an early age David kept his word with Jonathan David went away from the Lord but always came back to him David understood the importance of repentance David paid for his sin David was a man after God’s own heart     Psalm 51[a] For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba. 1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. 6 Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place. 7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, so that sinners will turn back to you. 14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God, you who are God my Savior, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;     you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 My sacrifice, O God, is[b] a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. 18 May it please you to prosper Zion, to build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous, in burnt offerings offered whole; then bulls will be offered on your altar.      

• Message: “Study of David Part IV” from Pastor Joe

  Study of David – Part IV  The purpose of this lesson is to continue to examine the life of David and how we can apply his experiences to our lives today. Part IV of the series examines David’s life following the death of Saul and his rise to the throne of a united Israel. Scriptures: 2 Samuel Chapters 1- Memory Verse: The 23rd Psalm A Psalm of David-  ( Try and remember the entire Psalm) 2 Samuel Chapter 1- Saul and Jonathans deaths David learns of the death of Saul and Jonathan- Verse 1-5 After the death of Saul, David returned from striking down the Amalekites and stayed in Ziklag two days. 2On the third day a man arrived from Saul’s camp with his clothes torn and dust on his head. When he came to David, he fell to the ground to pay him honor. 3 “Where have you come from?” David asked him. He answered, “I have escaped from the Israelite camp.” 4 “What happened?” David asked. “Tell me.” “The men fled from the battle,” he replied. “Many of them fell and died. And Saul and his son Jonathan are dead.” 5 Then David said to the young man who brought him the report, “How do you know that Saul and his son Jonathan are dead? Young man confesses to killing Saul- verses 6-10 6 “I happened to be on Mount Gilboa,” the young man said, “and there was Saul, leaning on his spear, with the chariots and their drivers in hot pursuit. 7 When he turned around and saw me, he called out to me, and I said, ‘What can I do?’ 8 “He asked me, ‘Who are you?’ “ ‘An Amalekite,’ I answered. 9 “Then he said to me, ‘Stand here by me and kill me! I’m in the throes of death, but I’m still alive.’ 10 “So I stood beside him and killed him, because I knew that after he had fallen he could not survive. And I took the crown that was on his head and the band on his arm and have brought them here to my lord. David moans for Saul and Jonathan-  verse 11-12 Then David and all the men with him took hold of their clothes and tore them. 12 They mourned and wept and fasted till evening for Saul and his son Jonathan, and for the army of the LORD and for the nation of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword. David has young man killed -  verse 13-16 David said to the young man who brought him the report, “Where are you from?” “I am the son of a foreigner, an Amalekite,” he answered. 14 David asked him, “Why weren’t you afraid to lift your hand to destroy the LORD’s anointed?” 15 Then David called one of his men and said, “Go, strike him down!” So he struck him down, and he died. 16 For David had said to him, “Your blood be on your own head. Your own mouth testified against you when you said, ‘I killed the LORD’s anointed.’ ” David laments Jonathan- verse 25-26 “How the mighty have fallen in battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights. 26 I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women  Chapter 2- The kingdom is split David becomes King of Judah- verse 1-4a In the course of time, David inquired of the LORD. “Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” he asked. The LORD said, “Go up.” David asked, “Where shall I go?” “To Hebron,” the LORD answered. 2 So David went up there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal of Carmel. 3 David also took the men who were with him, each with his family, and they settled in Hebron and its towns. 4 Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and there they anointed David king over the tribe of Judah. The son of Saul is made King of Israel by Abner -  verse  8-10 Meanwhile, Abner son of Ner, the commander of Saul’s army, had taken Ish-Bosheth son of Saul and brought him over to Mahanaim. 9 He made him king over Gilead, Ashuri and Jezreel, and also over Ephraim, Benjamin and all Israel. Abner and Joab agree to have young men compete- verse 14-15 Then Abner said to Joab, “Let’s have some of the young men get up and fight hand to hand in front of us.” “All right, let them do it,” Joab said. 15 So they stood up and were counted off—twelve men for Benjamin and Ish-Bosheth son of Saul, and twelve for David Competition turns deadly and Abner kills the brother of Joab-  19-23 Joab and Abner agree to cease fire- 25-28 Chapter 3-  Abner parts ways with the son of Saul Ishbosheth ( King of Israel)  Ishbosheth accused Abner of having sexual relationship with his father’s concubine – verses 7-8 Abner goes to David in peace- verse 17-21 Abner is killed by Joab for killing his brother - Verse 27 David moans for Abner-  Verses 31-39 Chapter 4- Ishbosheth is killed Ishbosheth is killed by his own men The men  bring the head of Ishbosheth to David-  verse 8 David kills them for harming the King of Israel- verse 9-12 David answered Rekab and his brother Baanah, the sons of Rimmon the Beerothite, “As surely as the LORD lives, who has delivered me out of every trouble, 10 when someone told me, ‘Saul is dead,’ and thought he was bringing good news, I seized him and put him to death in Ziklag. That was the reward I gave him for his news! 11 How much more—when wicked men have killed an innocent man in his own house and on his own bed—should I not now demand his blood from your hand and rid the earth of you!” 12 So David gave an order to his men, and they killed them David begins again to trust in God- verse 9 Chapter 5-  David unites Israel and Judah Israel comes to David- verse 1-5 All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. 2 In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the LORD said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’ ” 3 When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the LORD, and they anointed David king over Israel. David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. 5 In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years David continues to recognize God in his life- verse 10 David fights and defeats the Philistines- verse 17-26

• Message: “Distractions” from Pastor Joe

  Distractions Lesson Objective: To recognize the many distractions that are offered up by the world that will keep us from reaching our desired goals Scripture:  1 Corinthians 9: 24 “Know ye not that they who run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” Distraction definition- a thing that prevents someone from concentrating on something else Examples of problems caused by Distractions Takes our mind off of God Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Aids in developing doubt- Matthew 14: 29-30 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me Puts focus on self- Pride Ecclesiastes  10:13 For pride is the beginning of sin, and he that hath it shall pour out abomination: and therefore the Lord brought upon them strange calamities, and overthrew them utterly.”   Forget purpose Colossians 3: 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.   Thoughts 2 Corinthians 10: 5 and Proverbs 23: 7 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ for as he thinketh in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink,” saith he to thee, but his heart is not with thee. Causes of distraction Computer/internet 1 Corinthians 9:24 Competing with others Philippians 4: 11-12 Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to [a]be abased, and I know how to [b]abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need Do you play sports to win or to enjoy? Doubting if God answers prayers James 4:3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures. Philippians 4: 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God Not seeing things clearly Philippians 4: 4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Not using what we have and seeking more Matthew 14: 13-21 Secret to ward off distractions Pray without ceasing  

• Message: “How meaningful is your word?” from Pastor Joe

  How meaningful is your word? Lesson Objective: To understand the importance of meaning what you say and say what you mean Scripture: James 5: 12 But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.” Introduction Definitions: Oath- a solemn promise, often invoking a divine witness, regarding one's future action or behavior Swear- make a solemn statement or promise undertaking to do something or affirming that something is the case Vow- solemnly promise to do a specified thing: Condemnation- the expression of very strong disapproval; censure Examples of oaths or vows in today’s society Court of Law Swearing into a governmental office like the president Joining the military Wedding vows God is not in the deal-making business but Satan is Matthew 4:8 Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. 9 And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” A vow can be an oath that does not include an if statement God is in the Blessing Business (rewarding business) 2 Kings 20: 1-6 In those days Hezekiah became ill and was at the point of death. The prophet Isaiah son of Amoz went to him and said, “This is what the Lord says: Put your house in order, because you are going to die; you will not recover.” 2 Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, 3 “Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully and with wholehearted devotion and have done what is good in your eyes.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. 4 Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: 5 “Go back and tell Hezekiah, the ruler of my people, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the Lord. 6 I will add fifteen years to your life. And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria. I will defend this city for my sake and for the sake of my servant David.’” Abraham covenant Genesis 12: 1-3 Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee: 2 And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:3 And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed   c.       David covenant 1 Chronicles 17:11–14 When your days are fulfilled to walk with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, one of your own sons, and I will establish his kingdom. 12 He shall build a house for me, and I will establish his throne forever. 13 xI will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son. I will not take my steadfast love from him, yas I took it from him who was before you, 14 but I will confirm him in my house and in my kingdom forever, and his throne shall be established forever.’ ”   Be careful of what you say Peter and the disciples Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. 32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. 33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. 34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples. 36 Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. 37 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. 39 And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Summary Oaths Matthew 5: 33-37 33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil It is said that contracts are written to be broken. Your word is your bond Wedding Vows are spoken but they are not if statements and cannot be disregarded Again be careful of what you say it may come back to bite you