• Message: “Christian Living” from Min. Theophilus

  Sermon: Christian Living The picture shows religion, something that has been created to lead people’s lives! The word Christian/Christianity, first started in the beginning with one meaning, but now has 2, one spiritual another physical/worldly. The clear distinction became lost and now it is just equal to all these other religions we see.   Objective: To identify our purpose as the people of God of this time and understanding why we were specifically called Christians/The Church of Christ. 2 Chronicles 7 vs. 14 If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.   History of God’s people The origin of Israel (God’s people) - Genesis 49, faithful people (Abraham, Noah, David) The King of Peace - Zechariah 9 vs. 9-10 The Law and Jesus - Hebrews 10 vs. 1, 5-7   Who is Christ? The Son of God   Adam and Christ - Romans 5 vs.12 - end   From the beginning He was, till the end - Alpha and Omega   Eternal Word of God - John 1 vs. 1, 10 (the world did not recognize the Word even after it was created through Him) Jesus Christ has always been there even more than as the Word of God, we see His presence with the Israelites on their journey from Egypt with Moses (Num 21vs.4-9) (1Cor 10vs.3-4). That’s where the clear distinction between Israelites and the faithful people of God shows. The Living God Only one found worthy to live. Pleases God. The only righteous man ever/eternal righteous man. Therefore no one has any effort capable of pleasing God - The law has only been accomplished by him alone.   The Church of Christ Personal relationship with God Love for God John 14 vs. 21-23 Judas’ question Jesus’ commandments Repenting of/Abandoning sin or human nature? Mark 7 vs. 20-23 Willingness to abandon the world/Desires of the flesh in our hearts Sexual desires, worldly praises/fame, pride, idol worshipping/possessions of this world Why does it sound so hard? - Romans 8 vs. 18, (Our suffering cannot measure to the greatness/glory that will be revealed for us when we have run the race) Example of a dolphin living on land In His presence it becomes a privilege than a sacrifice Jeremiah 31 vs. 34 → Isaiah 54 vs. 13 None of them will have to teach his fellow citizen to know the Lord, because all will know Him, from the least to the greatest → I myself will teach your people God teaching our lives and our ways, leading us to Christ - John 6 vs. 45 (Who is Christ)  The living God Even the disciples did not really know Jesus when they were with him only until the Holy Spirit revealed Him to them, like Peter proclaiming under His influence. It shows how we can only really know Jesus when God leads/gives us to Him. When John the Baptist came he was preparing the way by bringing people to God to be led to Jesus Christ, the Pharisees (Jews) who were following their own human teachings could not be led by the Holy spirit so they never saw the Messiah and are still waiting, maybe for some powerful, Rich King who is so visible to everyone to see and hear. Faith in Christ Nothing about me and my abilities anymore - Galatians 2 vs. 19-21 Faith (The intensity of involving Jesus in your life) - Galatians 3 vs. 27, Hebrews 11 Through The Holy Spirit - John 16 (Help, Prove, reveal Truth, Teach) Health, food, work, anything - John 15 vs. 7 (in Him we will Put first God’s will and His desires/ Kingdom) It is only living according to His Spirit that pleases God, no intermediate eg. Not only on Sundays or prayer hour or church related meetings. How to approach the interactions with God The way we communicate with God must be distinguished by the Holy Spirit from the world e.g. Prayer, reading the word, dreams, hearing the word of God God sees His Spirit in our hearts, who pleads with God on our behalf in the things He/The spirit desires so that all of our living (thoughts, feelings, acts) is in Him (Romans 8 vs. 26,27) The Word of God in the bible is spiritual and not physical.   Summary/ So what Question: Are we the kind of Christians that give in to Christ living in them, leading all aspects of their lives, or are we those who lead Christ where to be in their lives? Which biblical characters are you? (Heb11) The Kingdom of God above all - Matthew 6 vs. 30-33 Living God’s desired way comes with acknowledging how He is in charge/control of everything we involve in - The 2 thieves on the cross (Luke 23 vs. 39-43)  

• Message: “Sermon on the Mount Part III” from Pastor Joe

  Sermon On The Mount Part III Lesson Objective:  To continue the series on the  Sermon On The Mount found in Matthew Chapter 5-7 Scripture:   Matthew  Chapter 6 Introduction : The significance of Sermon on the Mount First teachings by Christ Sets the tone for the change in emphasis from following the law Places emphasis on how we should live as Christians Giving to the Needy (Matthew 6: 1-4) Matthew 6: 1 Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven Understanding our motives when giving Question- Is it ok for buildings such as hospitals and museums to be named after the major donors Question- Should Churches have fundraisers such as pews with family names or bricks with family names Question- How should we recognize people who donate to worthy causes Key points of Prayer ( Matthew 6: 5-15) Matthew 6: 5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. It is not the length of the prayer or how loud one prays or where you pray Prayer is so important that the disciples asked to be taught how to pray ( Luke 11:1-13) Key components of the model prayer Recognizing the greatness of God Meeting our daily needs Accepting his will Asking for forgiveness Understanding our weaknesses Recognizing the greatness of God Fasting ( Matthew 6: 16-18) Matthew 6: 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. Continued theme of personal relationship Treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6: 19-24) Matthew 16: 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also Your eyes can get you into trouble Matthew 6:22-23  the eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy(giving), your whole body will be full of light.23 But if your eyes are unhealthy(stingy),your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Do not worry ( Matthew 6: 25-34) Summary Christianity is a way of life that reflects our desire to live as Christ directs us. This is not reflected by what we say but what we do. .  

• Message: “Accepting The Call” from Pastor Joe

  Accepting the Call Lesson Objective:  To identify who is called to be a minister and look at the role of the minister in upbuilding the kingdom of God. Scripture:  Romans 10: 14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? Matthew 28: 19-20 Definition of a minister (preacher) Ephesians 4: 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers Subsections of Ministers Apostle The term apostle comes from the Greek word “apostolos” meaning “messenger”. Apostles mean the “sent forth ones.” Some accept only the definition found in Acts 1: 20-21 Christ is spoken of as an Apostle Hebrews 3: 1 Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus, Examples 12 Disciples Paul  Acts 9: 15 Ananias told in a vision that Paul would carry the gospel to the Gentiles Evangelist a person who seeks to convert others to the Christian faith, especially by public preaching 2 Timothy 4: 2 Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4: 5 But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry. Teachers Someone who explains and helps others to understand a certain topic. Usually in small group settings or one on one James 3: 1 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. Acts 8: 31-32 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked . How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me? So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law. A prophet is defined as those who bring the word of God directly from  God thru Divine Intervention. Many can prophesy at some point of time in their lives but that does not mean that they are prophets. Joel 2: 28-32 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions….. Numbers 11: 25 Then the LORD came down in the cloud and spoke to him, and He took of the Spirit who was upon him and placed Him upon the seventy elders. And when the Spirit rested upon them, they prophesied. But they did not do it again Numbers 11: 29 But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the LORD’S people were prophets, that the LORD would put His Spirit upon them Unlike some who are led to believe the primary role of the prophet is not to tell the future but to exalt the word of God This is a Church appointed position thus prophets should be accountable to a Church The pastor serves as the head of the Church or multiple Churches Shepherd of the flock Not called—selected by the Church 1 Timothy 3: 1 Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Criteria identified for the selection process quite similar to the selection of the first deacons by the Apostles Examples: Titus and Timothy Summary All Christians have been called to be a minister We should evaluate our gifts that we each receive through the Holy Spirit to determine which ministry most fits our gift However, always be ready to step in where the need arrives.  

• Message: “Child-like Faith” from Min Oluleke

  CHILD-LIKE FAITH Scripture: Genesis 12:1-4 1 The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” 4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; (A) Look to Abraham # Abraham is a pattern of faith for us; we commonly refer to him as the father of faith. # When you study how God walked with Him, God said, "Go from your country...to the land I will show you." ..." So Abram went, as the Lord had told him" # That's how walking by faith is: 1) He only had a commandment to move - but he did not know where to. 2) He only had promises to what God had planned for him. 3) He was told ... to go the land "I will show you." And he believed. NB: Abraham was not a teenager just starting his life. He was old enough to be a grandfather, 75 years old. Can you imagine the ridicule and mockery of people (family members, colleagues, friends and society), when they heard that he was going to a place that he did not even know? Yet he was willing to take the risk, because he was certain that God had spoken to him. And at the end of the day, did God not do what He promised? Today, more than 2.4 billion people sing "Abraham's blessings are mine." Not to mention the extra 2 billion who are of the other religion and also claim Abraham's blessings! (B) So What? # What has God asked you to do, but fear has kept you from doing? # You feel obeying God has an "uncertain" future. Nothing appears clear or guaranteed. You are tempted to "play it safe by hedging your risks." # Abraham faced those fears too. But he chose to obey. # Don't wait to have everything figured out before obeying God. # His blessings come to those who trust like the baby. Like a little child who jumps from a height knowing that her dad will catch her. # God is calling us afresh to a life of absolute trust in Him. Is God nudging you to go into a career that you don't have all the details yet figured out? Trust and obey! Is God asking you to leave that relationship that is toxic to your purity and walk with him, but you're afraid of being lonely, or not finding a partner? Trust and obey! Are you thinking of quitting on God because people are mocking you; they say what do you have to show for all your dedication to God? Trust and obey! Is he asking you to go into a service ministry that may not pay lots of money? Trust and obey! Are your bills mounting up and you don't know how they would ever get paid? Trust and obey! Have you lost precious things, and are wondering if God is still there for you? Trust and obey! Did you receive more bad news, and it appears that things are going from bad to worse despite all of your prayers? Trust and obey! (C) Conclusion The Lord is calling us to a walk of faith like Abraham's. Isaiah 51:1-3 "Listen to me, all you who are serious about right living and committed to seeking God. Ponder the rock from which you were cut, the quarry from which you were dug. Yes, ponder Abraham, your father, and Sarah, who bore you. Think of it! One solitary man when I called him, but once I blessed him, he multiplied. Likewise I, God, will comfort Zion, comfort all her mounds of ruins. I’ll transform her dead ground into Eden, her moonscape into the garden of God, A place filled with exuberance and laughter, thankful voices and melodic songs.  

• Message: “The Time Is Near” from Min. Amani

  Theme: The times we are in. Minister: Amani Mapamba 10th October, 2021 Matthew 16:2-3 Jesus answered, “When you people see the sunset, you know what the weather will be. If the sky is red, you say we will have good weather. 3 And in the morning, if the sky is dark and red, you say that it will be a rainy day. These are signs of the weather. You see these signs in the sky and know what they mean. In the same way, you see the things that are happening now. These are also signs, but you don’t know their meaning. Note: Everything that we see is a sign of something or at least a sign of itself. Since everything was created it somehow points to God. What are the current alarming events on the planet? (Matthew 24) Covid 19 Wars in the Middle East, terrorism, rumors of wars in different parts. Earthquakes in different parts, volcanic eruptions in different parts Floods in Europe, east Africa etc. The most important thing: What does Lord tell is do now? Matthew 24:44 Are you ready? Revelation 2-3 Same question is asked to the seven churches “Are you ready if I come at an hour that you do not know” This question is to both believers and non-believers; To a believer; are you doing what you are supposed to be doing? Making disciples. To a non-believer; Are you ready to face the eternal punishment or accept Christ and live? The prophecies prove God is real. Do what you are supposed to do. Get your life right with God, we don’t have time. Further insight: He says, ‘Be also ready’. This means himself is ready hence calling us to readiness. This means he is telling us to what we are supposed to do even as he does. (Hebrew 4:15) Example of what he is calling us to do; Luke 18:8, Matthew 28:19-20 Matthew 24:14... There is a revival prophesied on the planet. John 4: 35 Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Reminder: Open your eyes. Qn: Am I asleep. Let us pray for more workers to awake from sleep. Matthew 9:37   The four main point: Keep the basics Pray Read the word (Bible) Be part (active) of a fellowship Tell others about Christ Be an expectant  Proverbs 23:18  

• Message: “Sermon on the Mount Part II” from Pastor Joe

  Sermon On The Mount Part 2 Scripture: Matthew 5: 13-22 You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (verses 14-16) Lesson Objective: To continue to review the Lessons from Christ found in the Sermon on the Mount – Matthew Chapters 5-7. Quick review Blessed are they that moan. This is not moan because of problems but moaning in sorrow for our sins Matthew 5: 4 I. What do you add to the life of others? a. Matthew 5: 13 You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot b. Salt is one of the most used ingrediants that add flavor and there are no real substitutes (ice crème and cake) c. How important are you to others? II. What is the purpose of a light a. Matthew 5: 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. b. Show people the way out of darkness (sin) c. Give people hope III. How do people see you? a. Matthew 5: 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven b. People must see God in us both words and more importantly deeds IV. What is the most important sin a. Matthew 5: 17- Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them b. Matthew 5: 19-20 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven c. One cannot pick and choose which commandment to follow and which to ignore d. Our serving God cannot be a fake and outward appearance only V. What is in your mind? a. Matthew 5: 21-22 You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' 22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. b. We must understand that it not only what we do but what we think c. Thoughts come from the heart Matthew 5: 8 Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God VI. Summary a. We must make a difference in the lives of others b. We must exemplify our relationship with God c. We must be leaders and not followers of the world d. Our heart must be tied to God

• Message: “HOW TO ATTRACT AND BE THE RIGHT PARTNER (FOR SINGLES AND MARRIED)” from Min Oluleke

  HOW TO ATTRACT AND BE THE RIGHT PARTNER (FOR SINGLES AND MARRIED) Proverbs 18:22; Gen. 2:20-24 1) Be the right person. Work on yourself: Character, emotions, physically& spiritually. Get rid of your weaknesses like anger, laziness, selfishness, lack of care for others, critical spirit, over dependence on others, emotional scars from past hurts and abuse, spiritual babyhood. It is important that to you are whole and thoroughly healthy in soul and spirit. It takes two whole persons to unite and have a good marriage. I'm not saying be perfect, but be whole. Be able to have a solid and sweet single life. #The quality of your single life is a precursor to the quality of your marriage. # The level of your quality determines who you attract. Healthy attracts healthy. Sick attracts abuser and cheat. 2) Be committed to your assignment and heart's passions. Your right spouse will usually be found while you work on your God-given duty. Not usually outside of it. Somewhere in the course of your assignment is your provision of a partner or spouse. E.g. your group/department in church, passion for charity, business etc. 3) Trust God for favour. It takes God's favour not so much your labour. Remember that Adam was put to sleep here. Go to sleep technically - let God guide you. Don't be worried. 4) Pray about your marital future regularly. Try to have a set day of the week to pray and fast (if possible) about your marital future. Satan hates godly homes. So, he will try everything possible to thwart God's plans here. Pray for favour. Pray against satanic hindrances, against bad family Marita patterns etc. 5) Be in the fellowship of believers. How will you find a godly man or woman when you always among unbelievers or unseriouus immature Christians. Don't ever think of marrying an unbeliever to convert them. Don't be unequally yoked to an unbeliever. 2 Corinthians 6:14. People say that half bread is better than non. Not in marriage - it's better not to marry if you're not convinced of the person's salvation. Salvation and a walk with God engender the fear of God. The core and most important characteristic of anyone you marry is the fear of God. 6) Grow spiritually. Grow in spiritual discernment. How does God speak to you? Practice it and get mature at getting spiritual direction. God still speaks. There's no need for trial and error. 7) Destroy your idols. Those images you have of an Ideal spouse, cast them down. Desire quality, excellence and godliness, but leave the rest to God. He may not be as rich as you want. She may not be the beauty Queen you romanticise on TV. Be careful of your heart's idols. 8) Don't go it alone. Involve your godly mentor/pastor. Involve your parents. They have discernment that's been tested over time. So they can help confirm your choice of spouse. 9) Understudy a godly successful marriage. If the couple teach on marriage, better deal. Your learning curve Will be faster. 10) Read, study understand what makes men unique and what makes women unique. Don't just wonder in dismay, why are women so emotional? Or Why do men love sports so much? 11) Is the man a leader? Can he take decisions by himself? How does he react when problems manifest? Do you find yourself consoling him and having to pamper him like a mother all the time? Is he grown up in character? Is he an example of purity to you? Or does he make you guilty of preserving your purity until marriage?

• Message: “Our Body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost” from Min. Tresor

  Our Body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost  OBJECTIVES:  Introducing the “4Hs”: Heart-Head-Hands-Habits 1 Corinthians 6: 15 Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. 16 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. 17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. 18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore, glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (Matthew 7:15-20) To remind believers that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and to encourage them to glorify God in their body, soul and spirit. 1Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  1Corinthians 6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.    DEFINITION Body:  Greek word “Soma” means the main physical part of a person. Genesis 2:7,22 Temple: Greek word “Naos” means “SANCTUARY” Ephesians 2:19-22;1Peter 2:4-5 Holy Ghost: God (Acts 5:3-4; 1Peter 4:14, Psalms 62:11; Acts 1:8; Acts 20:28; Romans 11:29)  “Each believer is a headquarter of the Triune God” John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Galatians 2:20; Genesis 1:26-28)   HEART Mark 7:20 And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: 23 All these evil things come from within, and defile the man. (Galatians 5:19-21) Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.  Acts 13:22 And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’   HEAD Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.  Romans 12:2 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.  Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.      HANDS Isaiah 59:1 Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. 3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.  Psalms 24:3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? 4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.  James 2:17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. (Matthew 7:15-20)           HABITS HOW CAN I GLORIFY GOD IN MY BODY AND IN MY SPIRIT? Galatians 5:16  This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.  Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.  Matthew 7:21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.  Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.    SO WHAT? Is there an error or sin which should be avoided? Does this lesson call for action? Are you told to do something? If so, what action are you to take? Is there a promise in this lesson which you can claim? What does this lesson teach about your relationship with God through Jesus Christ? What does it teach about God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit? What does it teach about your relationship with others in your family, community, church congregation, and the world? What does it teach about your relationship with yourself? 1Corinthians 3:17 If any man defiles the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.   

• Message: “Seeking True Love” from Pastor Joe

  Seeking True Love Scripture: Genesis 29:17-20 Leah’s eyes were [a]delicate, but Rachel was beautiful of form and appearance. 18 Now Jacob loved Rachel; so he said, “I will serve you seven years for Rachel your younger daughter.” 19 And Laban said, “It is better that I give her to you than that I should give her to another man. Stay with me.” 20 So Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed only a few days to him because of the love he had for her. Lesson Objective: Define true love and how to find it. What TRUE love is not Love is not an attraction due to perceived beauty At birth we have no idea what is beauty Every baby is cute Everybodies’ mother is beautiful Beauty is man-made Beauty is not Godly- 1st Samuel 16: 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Love is not a sexual attraction Love is not based on how someone feels about you I love her because she loves me (wrong) Love is not based on what someone does for you (need love) Provides material items (no reason to love) What is TRUE Love? Love is complete acceptance: When we allow someone to be exactly as they are, Love is completely unconditional: Love has no conditions. When we truly love someone, we can’t stop loving them, regardless of what they do or say. If our love is dependent upon the other person acting and speaking how we want, then this love is completely conditional. Question.. Can we fall out of love? Question.. When you say I love you is the other person obligated to say that I love you too? Love is selfless: True love doesn’t want anything in return, because there is nothing it needs. We just love for the sake of love. What is this love? Eros (Pronounced: AIR-ohs) is the Greek word for sensual or romantic love Storge (Pronounced: STOR-jay) is a term for love in the Bible .Greek word describes family love, the affectionate bond that develops naturally between parents and children, and brothers and sisters. Philia (Pronounced: FILL-ee-uh) is the type of intimate love in the Bible that most Christians practice toward each other. This Greek term describes the powerful emotional bond seen in deep friendships. Agape (Pronounced: Uh-GAH-pay) is the highest of the four types of love in the Bible. This term defines God's immeasurable, incomparable love for humankind. It is the divine love that comes from God. Agape love is perfect, unconditional, sacrificial, and pure. So What is True Love A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. John 13: 34 Every place in the Bible talks about how we are to love not how someone is to love us. We should strive for Agape Love no matter whether it is marriage, family, or friends. Have you prepared yourself for True Love?    

• Message: “Sermon on the Mount Part 1” from Pastor Joe

  Sermon on the Mount Series Beatitudes Scripture: Matthew 5, 6 and 7..    Specific Scripture this lesson  Matthew 5: 1-12 Lesson Objective: To revisit the lessons taught by Christ in the Sermon on the Mount which many see as the first recorded sermon in the Bible. Introduction-   Many believe that the Beatitudes were delivered on a mountain to compare and contrast the Ten Commandments The ten commandments were is samples of laws on what not to do The Beatitudes are to describe a way of life on how we should live The first section of the ten commandments is how we relate to God and the second section is how we interact with each other. The Beatitudes can be also divided first in relationship with God and the second section on how we interact with our fellow man. While not all together as in Matthew, one can find the Beatitudes in the Old Testament The beginning ---Matthew 5: 1-2 - Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them. The ending---- Matthew 7: 28-29 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29 because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law Beatitudes "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. We must humble ourselves before God 2 Chronicles 7: 14 Spiritual bankrupt Not self reliant Admission is for those who feel that they do not merit admission Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted. True repentance results in moaning We must show blessings and comfort to others Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth Meek does not mean weak. Obedience to God Demonstrate fruit of the spirit Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Basic needs must be met and God will provide Intentionally seeking God and read Christian literature Things that can get in the way are revenge, drugs and past failure Seeking more with the aid of the Holy Spirit Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. God shows mercy to us everyday. Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God. Treat others with honesty and no deceit Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. Do not advocate discord or listen and/or participate Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Christians have been martyred over the ages 2 Timothy 3:12 "Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. As the song says Every time a lie is told on me that is another brick in my brand new home Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you" Rejoice always no matter the circumstances