Acts 1-7 Reaching Your Jerusalem
Living in the Power of the Spirit - Part 26
November 4, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
“The Promise of Blessing” Living in the Power of the Spirit, Acts 7 “For God wanted them to know that the riches and glory of Christ are for you Gentiles, too. And this is the secret: Christ lives in you. This gives you assurance of sharing his glory.” Colossians 1:27 (NLT) We can learn much about one another from our taste in movies. I have a few favorites. I try to stick with the classics, and prefer only excellent dialogue and profoundly impactful material with time-tested value. So, one of my favorite movies, of course, is “Wild Hogs.” My favorite movie theme is reconciliation, so when the Wild Hogs inadvertently blow up a biker gang’s favorite bar, the action begins. The satisfying end to the story comes when the team of “Extreme Makeover - Home Edition,”comes to rebuild and beautify the biker bar; the only home some of these hooligans have even known. Standing in front of their new “home,” everyone becomes friends amidst tearful embraces - a happy ending. The final scene leaves the viewer feeling more hopeful about “impossible” reconciliations and restored unity among formerly waring factions. When we first began to follow Jesus by grace through faith, we took the first steps on a most incredible journey with God; “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” By faith we embrace the seemingly impossible truth that Christ now lives in those of us who believe, and we have been made brand new - full reconciliation. Talk about an extreme makeover! God never lived in houses made with human hands, but in the hearts of His followers wherever they go (Acts 7:48). And, as we surrender to Jesus more each day, He is diligently working to complete the makeover (Phil. 1:6). This is the hope of glory we long for. See you Sunday! Pastor Steve Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of November 6th Q: Where did our ancestors come from? Do you have any heroes in your family? Any black sheep? READ FIRST: Acts 7 Q: From 6:13-14, how would you write up the formal charges against Stephen? Q: Why does Stephen spend the bulk of his history lesson talking about Moses? What parallels does he draw between Moses and Jesus? How does this relate to the charges against him in 6:13-14? How does the quote in Verse 37 begin to turn the tables on his accusers (regarding who is really rejecting Moses)? Q: From verses 44-50, what is the point about the temple and God’s presence? How is he turning the tables against his accusers once again? Q: Since the Sanhedrin knew religious history every bit as well as Stephen, how do you account for their radically different response to Jesus? Q: When Jesus was brought before the Sanhedrin, He spoke not a word, yet Stephen spoke boldly. How do you decide when to speak and when to remain silent?
Living in the Power of the Spirit - Part 25
October 28, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of October 30th Q: Which responsibility at home or work would you gladly give up? Never give up? Q: Are you more likely to “rock the boat,” or keep the peace at any price? READ FIRST: Acts 6 Q: What do you think Stephen was like? What do we know about him? Q: Immigrant Jews often formed their own synagogues in Jerusalem. How is their opposition to Stephen like and unlike the opposition the apostles faced from the Sanhedrin? (compare to 5:27-28) Q: What was the main accusation against Stephen? (Acts 6:11-14) Were these accusations true or false? Q: Read Exodus 34:35 and Matthew 17:1, 2. Do these appear to be the same manifestation as Acts 6:15? What was the source of this radiance? What is the significance of it? Q: What two adjectives best describe your spiritual life? What would be different if you were “full of grace and power?” Sermon Meditation for Sunday, October 28th “Face of an Angel” Acts 6 In 2003, ABC launched a reality series that was destined to raise a maelstrom of criticism. The series was called “Extreme Makeover.” In this series, participants who deemed themselves unattractive submitted to extensive plastic surgery in hopes of making themselves feel more beautiful. What’s worse is that some cooperated because friends and family considered them unattractive! Participants anticipated that their lives would become real-life “ugly duckling to swan” fairy tales. The participants, however, did not experience the increase in quality of life for which they had hoped. Painful recovery periods, complications and swelling, along with rejection at work and home were all reported. Worse than that, in the first two seasons of the show, the rate of plastic surgery procedures showed a drastic uptick that coincided with Extreme Makeover’s first and second season, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The show was successful at causing some viewers to become desperate to change bodies that were not perfect. Needless to say, this show became a shame and embarrassment to its producers at ABC - and rightfully so. What makes a man or woman truly beautiful? According to the apostle Peter, “You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful.” I Peter 3:4, 5 The most attractive extreme makeover is born in the heart of a person who loves God and is filled with the Holy Spirit. Stephen, moments before his martyrdom, attracted the startled stares of everyone on the Jewish High Counsel, as “his face became as bright as an angel’s.” There is a radiant countenance of godliness on the faces of those who love Jesus with their whole heart. A little of God’s glory on display. Now that is true beauty. See you on Sunday, Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 24
October 21, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, October 21st Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 24 “Not of This World” Acts 5:33-42 “ . . . when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” First world problems. This new slang term brings great insight. It is used to refer to issues we in America complain about because we have no more urgent concerns, such as hunger or threat of bodily harm. First world complainers may be heard to say things like “The service sure is slow in this restaurant - no tip today” or “my spotty cell service sure makes me mad,” and “Ugh, I get a little sick every time I travel to Hawaii.” Here we find our intrepid apostles with their backs and chest flayed open and bleeding by a tripled strip of calf's hide. They were probably struck with the whip 39 times, in a rotation of two lashes on the back, one of the front, until 39 were achieved. Pain beyond comparison. Their response? They rejoiced that they were found worthy to suffer for Christ. Then they headed back to the streets and continued to preach the gospel. What a surprising response! The Bible is full of surprises. That’s because God’s Kingdom is a Kingdom of opposites. The world has it’s ways, but God’s wisdom is ultimate, eternal, and usually opposite from the way this world operates. For instance, the meek will inherit the earth; and Jesus commands us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us; and who can forget “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.” Kingdom citizens always respond in an opposite spirit, forgiving, loving, praying. Whip an apostle, and he’ll rejoice at suffering. Imprison an apostle, and he’ll sing songs of praise in the night. Attempt to silence an apostle, and he’ll declare the Truth all the more. We are citizens of the Kingdom of opposites. Do you tend to retaliate like the world? Or do you respond as a citizen of the Kingdom? When challenges arise, do you question God or praise Him for His Sovereignty and kindness? Hope to see you Sunday, Pastor Steve Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of October 23rd Q: In the midst of your everyday life, what are you most likely to complain about? Politics? Finances? Relationships? Q: What person in your life has been the best example of love? Explain how. READ FIRST: Acts 5:33-42 Q: Prior to Jesus, there were many Jewish zealots who led rebellions against Rome. What is Gamaliel’s point in recalling two such leaders? What do you suppose his motive was in defending the lives of the apostles? Q: Flogging sometimes resulted in death. Why do you suppose the disciples considered it worth rejoicing that they suffered in Jesus’ name? Q: How might proclaiming Jesus as risen Lord and Savior in Jerusalem immediately after his crucifixion be different than proclaiming Him as Lord and Savior over 6000 miles and 2000 years later? Q: How do you explain why God sometimes delivers you out of hardships, but at other times He allows you to go through them?
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 23
October 14, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 23 “Long Odds and Lost Causes” Acts 5:17-32 & I Corinthians 1:26-29 God loves long odds and lost causes! He prefers to use impossible tasks and human underdogs to display His power. He always chooses weak and lowly people over the strong and powerful. And He sometimes allows our Enemy to stack the deck in his demonic favor so God can win the whole hand to His great glory. Case in point for lost causes: Peter is an uneducated fisherman, and not that great at fishing to boot. He blurts out absurd declarations to the embarrassment of his friends, receiving the rebukes of Jesus. And at the most critical juncture in the life of Christ, Peter even denied knowing his Friend (three times!) to a young Hebrew girl. Just a few days earlier having sworn that he would fight all comers to protect Him. But God chose this loud, blurt-prone fisherman to lead His church in Jerusalem. In the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter preached sermons that would turn the whole city upside-down. The validation of Jesus’ true identity through signs and wonders would accompany all his work for the gospel. Peter’s consecration to his Lord and Master would take him to Rome and a cross of his own. Church tradition says that, due to his shame at his denials, Peter would choose to be crucified upside down. He didn’t feel worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus. Just an ordinary, uneducated fisherman serving an extraordinary God. Fearful at first, but compelled by love to fiery boldness. God’s full power and resources are dedicated to Jesus’ mission of redeeming all the “whosoevers!” (Revelation 22:17) Since God always uses the “weak and despised,” we are all left without excuse. How does God want to use you in fulfilling His redemptive mission? What weakness has kept you from fully follow and obeying the call of God on your life? He still opens prison doors to set the captives free! See you on Sunday! Pastor Steve Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of October 16th Q: What has been your experience on either side of jail? What sights, sounds, and feelings do you associate with jail? Q: When you leave your home or car unattended do you always lock it? Why or why not? READ FIRST: Acts 5:17-32 Q: When has your faith put you in “hot water?” Q: How do you account for the jealousy of the Sadducees? Q: Of what do they accuse the apostles in 5:28? How is this different from what bothered them in 4:2? Q: What assertions in Peter’s response (see 4:1-12; 5:19, 20) would arouse their fury? Why is Peter being so direct? Q: Read Peter’s statement in 5:29. What is Peter’s motivation and attitude in speaking these words? Can you anticipate a situation where you would need to respond in the same way? With family? At work? With civil authorities? Pray for the lost and for one another!
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 22
October 7, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of October 9th Q: What would you consider to be your greatest hunger besides food? Is it a healthy or unhealthy hunger? Q: How would you describe God to a child? READ FIRST: Acts 5:12-16 Q: What do you think the disciples were up to when they met often at Solomon’s colonnade? Q: Why did no one else “dare to join them?” What (or whom) were they afraid of? Q: The apostle’s work of healing the sick and delivering the “demonized” was drawing a crowd. People were being dragged out into the streets on their beds and mats by friends so they could be healed. How was God using these miracles for His own glory? Q: Have you ever laid hands on a sick person and prayed for healing? Did the person receive healing from God? If not, were there other benefits to your prayer ministry? Moment in prayer: (Read Acts 4:28-31 before prayer) Sermon Meditation for Sunday, October 7th Strengthened with Power Acts 5:12-16 Ephesians 2:19-22 “As a result of the apostles’ work, sick people were brought out into the streets on beds and mats so that Peter’s shadow might fall across some of them as he went by.” Jesus’ church was born amidst a powerful Outpouring of signs and wonders. At the hands of the Apostles, many were healed of “incurable” diseases and delivered from unclean spirits miraculously and immediately. Everyone was in awe of the mighty works of God. Even the Sadducees had to admit something was happening that was beyond human explanation. After being threatened by the Sanhedrin, The church gathered and prayed, “And now, O Lord, hear their threats, and give us, your servants, great boldness in preaching your word. Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” Jesus heard their prayer, and even those touched by Peter’s shadow were being healed! For those who were open to the Spirit, this was proof positive that Jesus was the long awaited Messiah. What do you ask for when you pray? By faith, do you expect an overflow of God’s touch on your life? And, have you truly experienced Christ’s deep love for you that will make you “complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God?” (Ephesians 3:19) Come and be blessed this Sunday morning as we think about Outpourings, past and present. Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 21
September 30, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, September 30th “What a Tangled Web We Weave" Acts 5:1-11 One of my all-time favorite movies is “The Kid,” starring Bruce Willis. The story line is built around the crisis of Willis’ character, Russ Duritz, who lives a wildly successful, materialistic life. Although outwardly successful, Duritz’ life lacks any meaning, substance, or love. His work as an “image consultant” has made him rich, as he strives to make people look better than they actually are. He is a liar for hire. For all of those who are more concerned with their “image” than with confessing the truth, this movie hits home. Barnabas had just presented a generous gift at the Apostle’s feet. He sold some land and gave all the proceeds to meet the needs of those in the fledgling church. Ananias and Sapphira, wanted to give the impression of being just as spiritual as Barnabas, so they concocted a lie in hopes of building their image; “He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount.” This cost Ananias and Sapphire their lives. When we value our image before people more than our integrity before God, we destine ourselves for destruction. Deceit grows like a cancer and spreads to every area of life. Those who value image over truth find themselves serving the “Father of lies,” Satan himself. Truly, this kind of deceit brings a little death into the lives of those who hope to build their image. The best definition of integrity is this; Doing the right thing even when nobody's looking. For those of us who love Jesus and joyfully serve His Body, we realize that the journey to healing always begins along the path of confession. (James 5:13-18) It’s time to stop guarding our image and just be honest and real before God and people. Keepin’ it real, Pastor Steve GROWTH GROUP - DISCUSSION GUIDE Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of October 1st Q: If money were no object, what fun thing would you most like to do? Q: What religious practice did you once do just because everyone else did, but you have since outgrown? READ FIRST: Acts 5:1-11 Q: Were Ananias and Sapphire required to sell the land and lay all the money at the apostle’s feet (see 4:32-37)? Why or why not? What was their sin? Q: What would Ananias and Sapphira gain by lying about the money they received? Q: How come many people who deceive God and their church do not come to a dramatic end like Ananias and Sapphira? Q: How might great fear or uncompromising honesty be useful to God? Q: How would the incident with Ananias and Sapphira lead to the response of people in verses 13-14? Q: How have you experienced the fear of the Lord?
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 20
September 23, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of September 25th Q: With what group have you sensed the most unity: a team? Bible study? Family? Q: Quick - respond without thinking . . . Who owns your stuff? How does this question feel to you? READ FIRST: Acts 4:33-47 Q: Compare verses 32-35 to 2:42-47. Now, as a group, make a list of the qualities that mark this church. Q: Why did Luke say the believers were of “one heart and soul?” Rather than just saying they were unified? Why were both “heart and soul (or mind)” needed for clarification? Q: If the disciples didn’t claim that anything belonged to them, to whom did their possessions belong? What are a few of the many implications of this view of stewardship? Q: Who was Barnabas and why was he assigned the name “son of encouragement?” What advantage to a church is there when many who are gifted like him participate? Are you like Barnabas? In what way(s)? Q: How well does verse 32 describe your relationship with others in your church? Living in the Power of the Spirit “Believer’s United in Love!” Acts 4:33-47 “All the believers were united in heart and mind.” Acts 4:33 Even to this day, some Cowboys fans are convinced that Joe Montana was trying to heave the ball into the second deck of Candlestick park. As Montana fled from Ed “Too Tall” Jones, he released the ball just fractions of an inch above Jones’ 6’9” reach. A last-second decision was made to throw to Dwight Clark, the backup receiver in case Freddie Solomon was taken out. Clark, who was not usually known for his jumping ability, made a mighty leap and snatched the ball at the apex of his jump for the touchdown. The 49ers went on to win the Super Bowl; the first of four in nine years for Joe (cool) Montana. A new dynasty was born. Clark made the catch of a lifetime, but this play was not the result of one man’s skill but of a whole team’s unified effort. The sporting world knows that the secret to success on the gridiron is a great, unified, team effort. Vince Lombardi once said "Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work.” It’s also what makes a family system work. And, what makes a church “work” to the glory of God. Individual commitment to a group effort requires a certain amount of self-sacrifice. Sacrifice of personal preferences, time, and resources. Those who love the Body of Christ and hope to see us succeed in fulfilling God’s mission in our city, make a deep commitment. Join us this Sunday as we unify our hearts in worship and declare our commitment to the King of Kings and the advancement of His Kingdom at Centerpoint. Now’s the time to find your place and do your thing! Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 19
September 16, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Hi Growth Group leaders, I’m excited about reports of first-week victories! God is working and you have a front row seat to watch the Holy Spirit at work in His church! Thanks for all you’re doing to advance the Kingdom and bless Jesus’ church! Pastor Steve 1. Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of September 18th Q: What bold move are you considering? Dating someone new? Leading a group? Starting a new career? A major purchase? Q: A football coach once said “We learn almost nothing in victory, but we learn much in defeat.” Do you agree with this? READ FIRST: Acts 4:23-31 Q: How do the Sanhedrin (4:15-17) and the disciples each view themselves and God? Q: Why would the disciples begin their prayer by declaring God’s Sovereignty? (vv. 24-28) Q: Did God allow, direct, or anticipate Jesus’ crucifixion? (see 2:23; 3:17-18) Q: How might Acts 1:8 be shaping the disciples prayer in verses 29-30? Q: What is one purpose of the Holy Spirit (see 2:4; 4:8, 31)? Q: How are your prayer like and unlike this prayer (vv. 24-30)? Why would it be helpful to recall God’s character and actions in history? 2. Sermon Meditation Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 19 “Your Eternal Plan” Acts 4:23-31 As I prayerfully read Acts 4 through the eyes of the Holy Spirit, I feel like God allows me to experience the excitement in “real time.” The word is living and active! As of last reading, I think I understand a little better the source of the Apostle’s confidence and boldness - they understood the absolute Sovereignty of God over all human history. In this moment, “all the believers” trusted fully in God’s plan of redemption which had been strategized in Heaven before the foundation of the world. God had been irresistibly working toward this moment. Every second spent in prison and every lash of the whip had been seen by God and every evil deed perpetrated by their persecutors “was determined beforehand according to (God’s) will.” Nothing happened without purpose and everything would be redeemed for our good and for God’s glory. As they prayed, they expressed their faith by addressing God as “O Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them— you spoke long ago by the Holy Spirit through our ancestor David . . .” Everything that happened then, and everything that happens in our lives now is filled with great meaning and purpose - this we know by faith. We might not see the effect of our circumstances now, but in Heaven there is laid up for us “an eternal weight of glory.” We can be confident and bold because God is in full control of every circumstance. As we faithfully follow and obey, God’s purposes are revealed and glory is stockpiled in Heaven. That’s why we can place our full trust in the Sovereign Lord, Creator of heaven and earth. Hope to see you this Sunday, Pastor Steve Reply Reply All Forward
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 18
September 9, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 18 “Can’t Help Myself!” Acts 4:14-22 Years ago, I heard a motivational speaker make this statement - “I’m not who I think I am; I’m not who you think I am; I am who I think you think I am.” Read that again slowly and think through each phrase. In other words, I don’t shape my self-concept, and neither do you. I’m shaped by what I I think you think of me. My uninformed guesses lead me to heights of egotism or lows of crushing self deprecation. We quietly say to ourselves, “Why is he looking at me like that?” “He must think I’m a loser.” “I’ll bet she thinks I’m an idiot.” Jesus says there is a better way. The better way prescribed by Jesus is that I base my self-concept on my true identity in Christ. I might assume that other folks think I’m too fat or too thin, too dumb or too socially awkward, too shy or too weak. But the only opinion that truly matters is Jesus’, and this is what He says about us . . . “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” I Peter 2:9, 10 When I look only to Jesus to shape my self-concept and identity, I’m set free from the fear of other people’s opinion of me. When He alone shapes my identity, I’m free to live with courage and boldness, declaring the excellence of His greatness and the truth of my convictions. Fear of man leads to bondage and idolatry. The truth of my identity in Christ leads to freedom. And I never have to guess at what He’s thinking of me. Join us this Sunday as we learn how to break free from the bondage of man’s opinions and walk into the freedom of knowing our true identity in Christ! See you Sunday! Pastor Steve Growth Group Discussion Guide Week of September 11th Q: Describe a time when you felt right about breaking the rules. Q: Have you ever taken an uncomfortable stand for the gospel? How did the experience make you feel? READ FIRST: Acts 4:14-22 Q: What would you feel if you were one of the believers who saw Peter and John taken away? If you were Peter and John? Q: Why do you think the religious leaders objected so strongly to Peter and John’s preaching? Why did they experience these events as such a profound threat? Q: Peter and John stood firm because they had made a decision beforehand concerning who they would obey (4:19). Also read Galatians 1:10. Have you come to this same conviction or are you growing in this commitment? Would you be willing to disobey the civil authorities if you were commanded to be silent about the gospel? Q: Have you ever had such good news that you just had to tell someone? Q: Do you speak often of God’s truth in your everyday conversations? And here’s my Sermon Meditation to assist in your preparation; Sermon Meditation Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 18 “Can’t Help Myself!” Acts 4:14-22
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 17
August 26, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, August 26th Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 17 The Fragrance of Christ Acts 4:13 “Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing.” II Cor. 2:14b-15 There is an odor of pipe tobacco and Old Spice aftershave that makes my Dad live again in my memories. One whiff sends me to the place of unqualified acceptance and safety. In those moments, I can almost feel the rub of his stiff whiskers on my face and the close embrace of a loving Father. Aromas are powerful links to our past, arousing memories, both good and bad. In High School, one of my first crushes wore a cheap perfume called “Charile.” Although my fickle teen-aged heart moved on in a matter of days, the smell of this perfume would always remind me of the thrill of immature adoration. And the antiseptic order of hospitals often reminds me of my Mom’s last days on earth. Scientists ascribe this phenomenon to the amygdala and hippocampus in the brain. These are the only sensory pathways directly connected to memory stimulation. All I know is, it’s nice sometimes to remember my Dad and his love. Those who invest time every day in developing an intimate relationship with God are easily recognized as those “who have been with Jesus.” They bear a noticeable “Christ-like fragrance.” This perfume reveals the identity and love of our Savior. And God wants to use this fragrance of Christ “to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere!” Looking forward to seeing you in worship! Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 16
August 19, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, August 19th Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 16 Jesus; the One and Only Acts 4:1-12 My brother David led me to faith in Christ in 1975 and my life was forever changed. After all the joyful moments in my life, the memory I most treasure is the evening David opened the tract “Four Spiritual Laws”and led me to repentance and belief in Jesus. Through Jesus, my personal relationship with God was initiated. My love for God has grown deeper with each passing year. And now my greatest joy is to help others draw near to God, too. The single most important truth in Scripture is this; knowing Jesus is the only way to have a relationship with God. Although this sounds “intolerant” to a profoundly deceived world, there is still only “. . . one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (I Timothy 2:5) This is the point upon which every true believer must make their stand. There is no salvation that can be provided through any other means. Not through good deeds, giving money to churches, trying to “be nice” to people, religious rites, or human political systems. Salvation comes through the forgiveness and new life freely offered to us by Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, and by his bodily resurrection on the third day after His crucifixion. This gift is freely offered by God to all who repent and believe in Jesus. To this lost world, “. . . the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (I Cor. 1:18) Hope to see you this Sunday, as we celebrate Jesus, our One and Only. Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit - Part 15
August 12, 2018 • Pastor Luke Dailey
Living in the power of the Spirit, Part 15 Acts 3:11-26 Times of Refreshing Last year was a very busy and difficult year for the Dailey's. We welcomed Azaria to the world in March, had two children under 2 (which made Kyle very busy!), and I was working a lot of hours at Safelite. The year was so busy that we didn't have an opportunity to get away and take a break; there was no vacation for us last year. The busy seasons of life come and go. I'm well aware that vacations are a privilege and not a right. I know that many people world-wide work very hard and work without vacation time off. So I'm not at all complaining about last year’s busyness. Kyle and I are very grateful for last year and all of the joy we had through it. I'm simply using that as an example of how we become tired and worn out by life when we don't have the opportunity to step away. One of the many things I love about Jesus' teaching is that He tells us to find rest in Him. He asks if there is anyone who is tired and weary. Then He exclaims, "Come to me, and find rest for your soul." That's AWESOME! Jesus is the King of vacations! Now, Jesus isn't promising an easy life with no bumps in the road. He's simply promising Himself as the source of peace and joy in the believer's life. Our passage this Sunday communicates a similar message - if we repent, times of refreshing will come. How many of us need times of refreshing? I do! You do! So, let's join together with repenting hearts, and witness Jesus fulfill a promise! See you Sunday, Pastor Luke
Living in the Power of the Spirit - Part 14
August 5, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 14 Reaching our Jerusalem Message title: Such As I Have Acts 3:1-11 Are you a “glass half-full” or a “glass half-empty kinda’ person? I’m a glass half-full kinda’ guy who suffers from eternal optimism. This sometimes causes a conflict in my heart between the way I think things should be vs. the way things really are. I’ve heard many fire-filled preachers sharing with great conviction that all people who have enough faith will be healed of their afflictions. I wish this were true, but it just ain’t so. Some are healed, and some are given strength to carry on in spite of infirmity. Both are to the glory of God and neither prove or deny our faith in Jesus. He is Sovereign over all of us. My youngest daughter, who has suffered with rheumatoid arthritis since age 14, lives in great strength and victory. She is bold with the gospel and strong in adversity. I wish God would heal her affliction, but I wouldn’t want to do anything to risk the deep faith and profound character God has produced through her suffering. We do, however, witness the greatest miracle of all on a regular basis as people around us are delivered out of the Kingdom of darkness into His marvelous light. Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection bring spiritually dead people to life every day. Those who believe in Jesus will never die. And, one day, we will all be healed. Blessings, Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 13
July 29, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 13 “Ready, Set, Grow!” Acts 2:42-47 "Christians and non-Christians have something in common," writes Rebecca Pippert. "We're all uptight about evangelism.” This is the first line of a book I read in college about lifestyle evangelism. The message in the book title is powerful all by itself; Out of the Saltshaker and into the world. After all these years and half-a-million books sold, I still recommend it to whole-hearted believers who wish to take part in God’s pursuit of people’s redemption. The two most important questions we should ask ourselves are (1) do we understand the content of the gospel well enough to share it with a non-Christian? And (2) if we know and understand the gospel, do we care enough about the eternal destiny of those God has placed our lives to have uncomfortable (at times awkward) gospel conversations? In Acts 20:24, the Apostle Paul sets the standard for us; “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” For those who believe, the gospel has provided the way to new life and relationship with God. It is the passion of God’s heart. It is the primary purpose of the church. Declaring the message of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus should mean everything to we who love the Lord. Hope to see you Sunday! Pastor Steve
Living in the Power of the Spirit Part 12 - Ready Set Grow
July 22, 2018 • Pastor Steve Pope
Sermon Meditation for Sunday, July 22nd Living in the Power of the Spirit, Part 12 “Ready, Set, Grow!) The Father is seeking worshipers. (John 4:23) In public worship services, some churches prefer quiet liturgy, deep meditation, and orderly structure. Some prefer a more “concert-driven” style; high energy, loud volume, sometimes complete with fog machines. Some prefer singing their praises “acapella,” without the addition of any musical instruments. The leaders of a local church are charged with the responsibility of seeking God’s will in Scripture concerning public worship services. We search His word to examine the directives of the only One who deserves our worship. The first Biblical principle of worship is this: Worship is more than just the songs we sing on Sunday mornings. Our most profound spiritual service of worship is exercised when we take up our cross and lay down our lives daily in full submission to God (Luke 9:23). Paul says that presenting our lives on the altar as a spiritual sacrifice of worship is most pleasing to God. This is the heart of a true worshipper. (Romans 12:1, 2) Let’s spend time every day preparing our hearts to sing a song to the Lord together this Sunday. Let’s lay down our lives in daily submission and then gather this Sunday to sing a song of praise for the triumph of Jesus over sin and death! See you Sunday! Pastor Steve