• Message: “Hearing God’s Voice Part 2” from Pastor Joe

  Hearing God’s Voice Part 2 Decisions Decisions Decisions General Lesson Objective: This series of lessons explains how God speaks to men today and how to find His general and specific plans for our lives.  A Christian model for decision making is presented, along with guidelines for overcoming wrong decisions, steps to take if you have missed the will of God, and methods for dealing with questionable practices . Specific Objectives · Define the word "prerequisite." · List prerequisites for knowing the voice of God. · Explain what it means to be born again. · Recognize the importance of the Holy Spirit in to knowing God's voice. · Demonstrate understanding of "spiritual maturity" and "transformation.": Scriptures: John 10:27  My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (Romans 12:1-2)I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.   Definition of prerequisites a thing that is required as a prior condition for something else to happen or exist required as a prior condition prerequisites can be deflating First Prerequisite – Born Again (Romans 12:1-2)I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. (I Peter 4:2) Desiring to understand the will of God in our lives Sin separates us but being born again closes the gap Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. (Revelation 3:20) Steps in being born again Accept that we are a sinner For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23) Recognize the penalty for sin For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23) Confess If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (I John 1:8-9) Born again Therefore, if any man be in Christ He a new creature; old things have passed away; Behold, all things are become new. (II Corinthians 5:17) Second prerequisite-- Baptism of the Holy Spirit When He, the Spirit of truth is come (the Holy Spirit), He will guide you into all truth. . . and He will show you things to come and He shall receive of mine (God's will) and show it to you. (John 16:13-14) Spiritual Maturity For everyone that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: For he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (Hebrews 5:13-14) God’s Will Introduction A Three Wills Self will-- Wanting self satisfaction Jeremiah 17:9 " The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? Luke 22:42: "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." (NIV) Satan’s will 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. (John 10:10) And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (II Timothy 2:26) God’s will ---  There are two Greek words for will The "boulema" will of God does not require the cooperation of man. In the "boulema" will of God, the outcome is predetermined. The "boulema" will of God is written in His Word and is quite clear. The other word "thelema" refers to God's desire for man to experience and live in His will. It refers to His individual plan or will for each man and woman. In order for God to fulfill His "thelema" will, it requires your cooperation. Summary We want to hear God’s voice so that we can understand his will for our lives. The closer that we get to developing a true relationship with God the closer we get to understanding his will in our lives and his will becomes our will. In the next lesson, we will gain more insight into how we can understand God’s will in our lives and the two basic methods God uses to speak to us.

• Message: “Hearing God’s Voice” from Joe Summers

  A message from the series "Hearing God's Voice." Hearing God’s Voice Part 1 Decisions Decisions Decisions General Lesson Objective: This series of lessons explains how God speaks to men today and how to find His general and specific plans for our lives.  A Christian model for decision making is presented, along with guidelines for overcoming wrong decisions, steps to take if you have missed the will of God, and methods for dealing with questionable practices Specific Objectives: Understand how God can reveal His will for each of us Understand one of the Christian models for making a decision Determine the will of God in matters not specifically dealt with in the Scriptures. Identify a personal decision that you are struggling with and a possible solution. I want to hear God's voice and know His will about__________ Scripture: John 10: 14-16 I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. John 10: 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.   ( life is made of decisions) Scientific Study of making decisions The average adult makes 35000 decisions daily 2000 decisions per hour 1 decision every 2 seconds The more decisions that we make daily lead to bad decisions Real-life examples Steve Jobs wore the same outfit daily ( black turtleneck and blue jeans) Bad decisions are oftentimes made late in the evening Ways to reduce decision making clutter Automate certain decisions such as what to eat for breakfast What time to pray What time to read the bible and use the study guide Hearing and Knowing God’s Voice We must agree on four basic principles when discussing hearing and Knowing God’s voice First: That there is a God. 1 Corinthians 8:6 - But to us [there is but] one God, the Father, of whom [are] all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom [are] all things, and we by him                                                             ii.            Second: That he communicates with man. Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.                                                           iii.            Third: That man can recognize His voice when He speaks John 10:27. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.                                                           iv.            Fourth: That God has something to say Psalms 119: 105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path   Which voice do you hear? Voice of Man (most obvious) Sometimes what is being said is correct and wise (Acts 5:29)Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. Matthew 16: 23 Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Voice of Satan (Sometimes audible or in our minds) Genesis 3: 1, 4,5 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’?” 2 The woman said to the serpent, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, 3 but God did say, ‘You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die.’” 4 “You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Acts 8: 5-7 Then Philip went down to [a]the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. 6 And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. 7 For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. Voice of Self Seeking the answer within ourself Luke 16:3 Then the steward said within himself, ‘What shall I do? For my master is taking the stewardship away from me. I cannot dig; I am ashamed to beg. O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. (Jeremiah 10:23 Voice of God (John 10: 3-5) God wants to communicate with us To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep byname and leads them out.4 And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” Man separates himself from God because of sin. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day; and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? (Genesis 3:8-9) Which type of listener are you? Matthew 7: 24-26 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock… And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. SUMMARY This is the end of part 1. We must understand that it is not just wanting to hear God’s word but also yearning to do God’s will. Next week we will discuss how to prepare ourselves to hear the Word of God.        

• Message: “Keys to a Christian LifeStyle” from Pastor Joe

  Keys to a Christian LifeStyle  Lesson Objective: To review lifestyle keys as described by Paul so that others can see God by the way we live Scripture: Romans Chapter 12 Christians must first learn that a Christian lifestyle requires sacrifice Romans 12:1  I beseech[a] you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your [b]reasonable service. Definition of sacrifice: giving of life or something of perceived great value Old Testament was the sacrifice of animals New Testament- Christ’s sacrifice for us We have to sacrifice daily by not following the desires of our hearts(perceived values) if they are inconsistent with the word of God   Do not think like the world but have a renewing of the mind- Romans 12: 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God What are some things that the world teaches which are opposite to the Bible? Look out for number one first Fornication is acceptable behavior It is ok for kids to disobey their parents Parents should not ever spank or discipline their children   How does one gain this renewing of the mind? By studying the Bible and by surrounding ourselves with Christians who believe in the inherent truth of the Bible Matthew 4:4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Praying without ceasing 1 Thessalonians 5:17   Be humble and have humility Verse 3 Romans 12:3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you What does it mean to have a measure of faith? We all have the capacity for exemplifying all of the spiritual gifts in some measure but we exceed in one more than the other because that is what comes most natural and we utilize that gift most often which allows us to become more comfortable   Use of Spiritual Gifts Review of Gifts as described by Paul- Verses 4-8 Prophesy Serve Teach Encourage Giver Leading Show mercy Not meant to be the only gifts for there are other gifts that may not fit directly under any of those identified by Paul. Used to the uplift body of the Church-  These gifts are to be used in the development of the Christian body.   The necessity of Love in our lives for each other- Romans 12: 9 Let love be without dissimulation( pretense). Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. This love must be genuine and not based upon what we can get or some ulterior motive   Devoted to one another 12: 10 We must be able to depend on each other no matter what the condition   Zealous- Verse 11 also Galatians 4:17-18 We must have the same deal when utilizing our spiritual gifts for the up building of the Church as we have in nonreligious events such as football games, etc.   Do not be revengeful- 14-21 We must recognize that there will be disagreements but these should not lead to our revenge.   Summary It is vitally important that we recognize that the key to living a Christian lifestyle is to understand first that we must allow God to enter our lives and that we are to meet his purposes. Furthermore, this requires a change of mindset different from what is taught in the world and recognizing that each of us has a spiritual gift that must be used to build and sustain the Church. We can only accomplish this if we truly love each other and be zealous of our responsibilities and never utilize revenge as a means of addressing the Church.  

• Message: “RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD” from Min. Mark

  RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD What does relationship with God mean? It can be likened to our relationship with others. It is basically our connection or association with God. Relationship with God is about us knowing God and God knowing us. John 10:14. Knowing God vs Knowing about God Knowing about God - reading about God or heard about Him at Church or conferences. You have information without experience or encounter. Knowing God - is having and experience or encounter with Him Pillars of relationship Fellowship (Koinonia) - it maintains relationship Love - it grows relationship Trust - it nourishes or fertilizes relationship Why relationship with God is important? It helps us to know the plan of God. Gen. 18:17 It helps us to get closer to God. It helps us to fit into God’s plan, purpose and kingdom. What is your relationship goal with God? Your relationship goal determines your input or efforts in your relationship with God. Goals like - need for money, pass my exams, etc. only cause you to relate with God seasonally. God is not after a seasonal relationship, but an eternal relationship. The believer’s relationship goal with God is to know God or seeking after God. Mat. 6:33, Philippians 3:10. How to build a good relationship with God? Accepting and confessing Jesus as your personal savior. Rom. 10:10 Effective and consistent communication (Prayer). 1 Thess. 5:17, James 5:17 Studying the word of God given by the Holy Spirit. 2 Tim. 3:16 Obedience to God’s word - John 14:15 Denying yourself and the world - Rom 12:2, Mat. 16:24, Gal. 5:24 Making God your top most priority. Mat. 6:33, Mat 22:37. Associate yourself with true believers. Prov. 27:17 Fellowship with the Holy Spirit. 2 Corin. 13:14 Trust God with all your heart. Prov. 3:5    

• Message: “Let The Shepherd Do His Thing”

  Importance of Obeying God   Lesson Objective: To review the experiences of Adam and Eve in failing to obey God and how we can learn from their downfall. This lesson is based upon Bible Study developed by Saddleback Church.   Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17; Genesis 3: 1-3; 1 John 1:9; Matthew 5: 23-24   Memory Verse: 1 John 1: 9- If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness- (NIV)   Obedience is based upon our understanding of the need to listen to God and follow his commandments. The following can keep us from obeying God: Lack of Faith Lack of Trust Lack of understanding the need to listen and obey   List all the things that God told Adam and Eve not to do- Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”   In what ways did the serpent change what God had said? Genesis 3: 1-5 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.   Why did Eve eat the fruit? Genesis 3: 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.   Why did Adam eat the fruit? Genesis 3:6   What are things in our life that are hard for us to obey?   What did Adam and Eve do when they disobeyed God? Genesis 3: 8-13   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.9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” 12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” 13 Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.   What should they have done?   What should we do when we do something wrong   1 John 1:9  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness Matthew 5: 23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.   What lesson do we learn and how should we share this lesson with others?  

• Message: “Importance of Obeying God” from Pastor Joe

  Importance of Obeying God   Lesson Objective: To review the experiences of Adam and Eve in failing to obey God and how we can learn from their downfall. This lesson is based upon Bible Study developed by Saddleback Church.   Scripture: Genesis 2: 15-17; Genesis 3: 1-3; 1 John 1:9; Matthew 5: 23-24   Memory Verse: 1 John 1: 9- If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness- (NIV)   Obedience is based upon our understanding of the need to listen to God and follow his commandments. The following can keep us from obeying God: Lack of Faith Lack of Trust Lack of understanding the need to listen and obey   List all the things that God told Adam and Eve not to do- Genesis 2: 15-17 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”   In what ways did the serpent change what God had said? Genesis 3: 1-5 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.   Why did Eve eat the fruit? Genesis 3: 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.   Why did Adam eat the fruit? Genesis 3:6   What are things in our life that are hard for us to obey?   What did Adam and Eve do when they disobeyed God? Genesis 3: 8-13   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.9 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” 10 He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” 11 And he said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree that I commanded you not to eat from?” 12 The man said, “The woman you put here with me—she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.” 13 Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.   What should they have done?   What should we do when we do something wrong   1 John 1:9  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness Matthew 5: 23-24 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.   What lesson do we learn and how should we share this lesson with others?  

• Message: “Carrying out the Great Commission” from Pastor Joe

  Carrying out the Great Commission Evangelism and Witnessing Lesson Objective: To continue to understand the importance of evangelizing and how we can utilize our gifts to teach and make disciples using small groups as one of the desired methodologies. Scriptures: Matthew 28: 19-20; John 21:6; Matthew 9:17 Memory Verse: Matthew 28: 19 Go 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 Is evangelism and witnessing the same?   Evangelism is communicating the teaching of Christ, called the Good News or The Way. Witnessing tells others what that information has done for you in your life Witness in the court room can not say what he/she heard. Must say what they have first hand knowledge The Great Commission (Matthew 28: 19-20) and the Great Commandment(s)( Mark 12: 30-31) are seen by most Christians as the commandments for action foundations for which comes our beliefs. Definition of Disciple- any follower of Christ. (a member of the Disciples of Christ   a person who is a pupil or an adherent of the doctrines of another; follower: .  to convert into a disciple B . There are several requirements for we as Christians in-order to carry out the Great Commission   We must accept change in our lives: Christ discussed putting new wine in old wineskin- Matthew 9:17 Neither do men pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." We must understand that sometimes we need new direction in our lives – John 21:6 He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number Christ discussed with Nicodemus the need to be born again- John 3: 1-4 Now there was a Pharisee, a man named Nicodemus who was a member of the Jewish ruling council.2 He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.[a]” 4 “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” We must be willing to change our priorities -Matthew 19: 20-22 All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Accepting the Holy Spirit Day of Pentecost- Acts 1:4 and Acts 2:4 Acts 1: 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a]as the Spirit enabled them. Holy Spirit received by accepting the word of God- Acts 10: 44-48 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message.45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues[a] and praising God. Then Peter said,47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” 48 So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days. Using our God Given Gifts We all have gifts for the uplifting of the kingdom 1 Corinthians 12: 3-11 God expects us to use our gifts (talents) – Matthew 25: 14-30 Fruit is similar to gifts- Galatians 5:22 ( entire Chapter) Christ words to Peter the same to us- John 21: 15-19 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” 16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” 17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep Examples of sharing God’s word thru small groups: Acts 2: 46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. Acts Chapter 10 - Peter and Cornelius Acts 18 7Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God. 8Crispus, the synagogue ruler, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized. 24Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. 25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor] and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John. 26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately. In another case, Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that he had exhorted them both "publicly and from house to house." (Acts 20:20) In this passage, "publicly" probably refers to the school room of Tyrannus (Acts 19:9). But Paul did not limit his speaking ministry to the large meeting place, even though one was available. He also worked “from house to house.” For your reading pleasure… Researched info:   Why small study groups… Both New Testament example and principle argue for small home-sized groups as a key feature of the local church. In the area of biblical example, Acts 2:46 states that the Jerusalem church met "in the temple" and "from house to house . . ." Concerning the meetings in the Temple, we know that Solomon's portico was probably quite large, and could have accommodated even the several thousands that were a part of the Jerusalem church. Thus, in Jerusalem, they held both large and small group meetings. Clearly, they did not feel the large meetings were enough by themselves. It should be obvious that an impersonal atmosphere will result if we only hold only very large meetings. The local church should encourage a network of close relationships in its congregation because real community must be based on close relationships. Smaller group meeting formats such as those described in this passage would be ideal for fostering such relationships.   Paul apparently refers to several home churches in the city of Rome (Romans 16: 4, 10, 11, 14, 15,). In I Cor. 14:35 he mentions “churches” in the plural, after having already referred to “the church of God which is at Corinth,” (I Corinthians 1:2) in the singular. Excerpt below and also give you things to beware: Jesus met with non Christians: Although his own ministry had been specifically to Israel,[15] Jesus sent his apostles to the Gentiles with the Great Commission and ascended to heaven while a cloud concealed him from their sight.[16] Jesus often met with society's outcasts, such as the publicani (Imperial tax collectors who were despised for extorting money), including the apostle Matthew; when the Pharisees objected to meeting with sinners rather than the righteous, Jesus replied that it was the sick who need a physician, not the healthy (Matt 9:9–13). According to Luke and John, Jesus also made efforts to extend his ministry to the Samaritans, who followed a different form of the Israelite religion. This is reflected in his preaching to the Samaritans of Sychar, resulting in their conversion (John 4:1–42). Summary Evangelism and witnessing must be a mainstay of a Christian.

• Message: “The Humbleness of Christ Part 1 and Part 2” from Min. Theophilus

  The Humbleness of Christ Objective: In this lesson about the humility of Jesus Christ we would like to tackle these 3 main questions; What is Humility according to the bible? How does humility relate to Christ? As believers, how does humility apply in our lives? Part 1: The humility presented by Jesus’ life Chapter objective: To understand the importance of humility as a measurement of greatness in God’s Kingdom. To relate Christ as God’s promised King of the world by the nature of his humility. Who is greatest in the Kingdom of God? A question by the disciple - Matt 18 vs. 1-4 The 2 sons of Zebedee story - Matt 20 vs. 20-28 Genesis 49 vs. 9-12 _What was Israel promised? Judah’s blessing. Revelations 12 vs. 1-2, 5, 10-11 Here’s revelation for you - The fruit grapes according to the bible stands for royalty and is in fact humility. Jesus Christ’s life and acts (washing of feet, last supper, prayer in the garden of Gethsemane, His death) - these acts show how humility is not something you physically enjoy doing, it’s hard, painful, uncomfortable, humiliating, but worth it for someone you love. A mind opener of some kings who once existed in the past, but failed humility and their fate. They give us an insight of knowing that if the earth belongs to God; His Will shall always be achieved about the royalty in heaven. So what: The moment you believe in Jesus, you have decided to live His life. You become an ambassador of Christ to all who see you and hear of you; that means you are a King, who should show it by the humility of Jesus in you upon your life. Summary: The Kingdom of God presents a real King being defined as someone who is Humble before God and the people He serves. This was proven by the way Jesus was when He came on earth as a man; He served others, helped, loved, and ultimately gave up His life for all who believe. Humility is the essence/principle of Royalty.   Part 2: Humility; the Fruit of the Spirit Chapter objective: To engage our lives in Christ in terms of being humble to God and others. To aim to produce fruit. Recall: We achieved that Jesus Christ is the one true King of the world by means of His Humility in God and towards the world. The bible mentions humility as a fruit of the grapevine. Galatians 5 vs. 22-23. We were brought on this earth to produce fruit!! Gen 1 vs. 28 The whole biblical messages and events all share that concept. However, we should know that there is only one way to produce fruit and that is through the (Jesus concept) Spirit and the Word of God. Jesus The Real Vine John 15 vs. 1-17 “I am the real vine, and my Father is the gardener. He breaks off every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and he prunes every branch that does bear fruit, so that it will be clean and bear more fruit. You have been made clean already by the teaching I have given you. Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. A branch cannot bear fruit by itself; it can do so only if it remains in the vine. In the same way you cannot bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without me. Those who do not remain in me are thrown out like a branch and dry up; such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, where they are burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, then you will ask for anything you wish, and you shall have My Father's glory is shown by your bearing much fruit; and in this way you become my disciples. I love you just as the Father loves me; remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love. “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My commandment is this: love one another, just as I love you. The greatest love you can have for your friends is to give your life for them. And you are my friends if you do what I command I do not call you servants any longer, because servants do not know what their master is doing. Instead, I call you friends, because I have told you everything I heard from my Father. You did not choose me; I chose you and appointed you to go and bear much fruit, the kind of fruit that endures. And so the Father will give you whatever you ask of him in my name. This, then, is what I command you: love one another. Summary: Jesus is the only means of achieving humility in our lives by always staying connected with Him; through abiding by the Holy Spirit and the Word He speaks in our lives as Individuals. Let this connection be mutual so that you can continue to produce the fruits of the Spirit until His coming. We are welcomed into the Kingdom of heaven when we live a life of humility towards God and the people around us (Matt 18 vs. 3-4).

• Message: “Love and Humility Christian Traits” from Pastor Joe

  Love and Humility Christian Traits Lesson Objective:  As a follow-up to our prior discussion on traits of Christians and how we can help each other to further develop those traits with emphasis on love and humility. Scripture:  Luke 10: 25-27 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 26 “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” 27 He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’[c]; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Introduction Love and humility are like  2 peas in a pod Love definition- God is love 1 John 4:8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4: 7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Humility definition combination of meek and humble Matthew 11: 29 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 Matthew 5: 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. Parable of the Good Samaritan Luke 10: 25-37 Luke 10: 25-28 And behold, a lawyer stood up to put him to the test, saying, "Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?" 26 He said to him, "What is written in the Law? How do you read it?" 27 And he answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself." 28 And he said to him, "You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live." Was the lawyer showing humility by asking the question? Why do you think he asked the question? Luke 10: 29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Was he trying to do just enough to make it in? In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead.31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. Can you think of a similar situation? Why do you think that Christ use the priest and the Levite? Luke 10: 33-34 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn, and took care of him Samaritan was deeply hated by the Jews Samaritans were original Jews who after capture by Assyrians intermarried and had a separate understanding of the first five books of the Bible How did the Samaritan show love? Luke 10: 35 The next day he took out two denarii[e] and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ The Samaritan went the extra mile. Do we go the extra mile when someone is in need? Luke 10: 36-37 Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” 37 The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise Did the lawyer change after his encounter with Christ? What is the significance of the last statement by Christ and what does it mean to us today Points to Ponder God is love How we show love demonstrates God for others One cannot love without having humility .

• Message: “Day of Prayer Fighting To The Top” from Min Oluleke

  Sunday, Feb. 6, 2022 TOPIC: FIGHTING TO THE TOP Objectives: 1)To intimate the believer that it takes a fight of faith to see God’s promises and plans fulfilled. 2) To make us aware of the need for discernment in the battles of life. A. INTRODUCTION 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NKJV) 13 No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. No matter how Great the promise of God is. No matter how generous his plans towards us are, He does something interesting... He makes us to Fight to get to the Top! Example: God made a promise to Abraham. Genesis 13:14-17 14 And the Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: “Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are—northward, southward, eastward, and westward; 15 for all the land which you see I give to you and your [c]descendants forever. 16 And I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if a man could number the dust of the earth, then your descendants also could be numbered. 17 Arise, walk in the land through its length and its width, for I give it to you.” See how God fulfilled it - God ensured that Abraham's descendants fought to obtain the promise. It didn't fall on their laps without some effort on their part. Deuteronomy 2:24 (NKJV) 24 “ ‘Rise, take your journey, and cross over the River Arnon. Look, I have given into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to possess it, and engage him in battle. B. WHY DOES GOD DO THIS? 1) He makes us to work diligently to enter His rest - To build our character and competence in His purpose. Hebrews 4:11 (NIV) 11 Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. 2) He "proves" us before He makes the fulness of His plans come to pass. The purpose is to refine us Psalm 105:19 (AMP) 19 Until the time that his word [of prophecy regarding his brothers] came true, The word of the Lord tested and refined him. Deuteronomy 8:2 (NKJV) And you shall remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not. 3) He brings us to limits where we just have to let go of pride and self-confidence - He does not want us to share his glory Judges 7:2 2 And the Lord said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel claim glory for itself against Me, saying, ‘My own hand has saved me.’ C. DISCERNING WHEN TO FIGHT There are some battles we cannot win: 1) When we are outside the will/purpose of God in: marriage, career, friends, mentors, place of work/residence, all major decisions (Ruth 1:1-21 & Genesis 26:1-12) 2) When we fight against divine purpose (Acts 5:38-39). D. THE TAKE-AWAY 1) Every promise land has giants in it. None is vacant because nature abhors vacuum. 2) God raises/trains those who are in his image: - He is a Man of War (Ex. 15:3) - He is the Lord of hosts (Isa. 47:4); Jehovah Sabaoth occurs >260 times in the bible - He is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah - His seed must be lions, soldiers and brave fighters, whether they are men, women, boys or girls. 3) When the going gets tough, the tough must get going. Don't faint! (Prov. 24:10) 4) Choose your battles carefully by asking for divine direction all along the way in life. Prayer points 1) Heavenly Father, I thank you that through you, I am more than a conqueror. 2) Lord, fill me with the spirit of a fighter. Empower me to fight my way to the top this year. 3) Lord, give me a dogged and resilient spirit that never bows to problems. No problem shall see my end; I shall see the end of all problems and challenges in Jesus’ name. 4) Lord, give me discernment of your perfect will for my life per time. Help me to be in the right place at the right time.