September 4, 2016 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Proverbs 6:12–19
In this passage from Proverbs, we are given a description of a worthless, wicked man. He distorts the truth and has a perverted heart. He is guilty of practicing the things that God hates: being full of pride, lying, shedding innocent blood, devising evil, wicked plans, bearing false witness, and sowing discord among brothers. Apart from Jesus Christ, we are all like this worthless, wicked man. If we are in Christ, we have been redeemed and are no longer under condemnation. This passage is a warning, but also a source of great encouragement and hope.
The Path to True Life
August 28, 2016 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Proverbs 4
In this passage from Proverbs chapter four, we are given several keys to ensure that we are on the path of wisdom leading to life. These keys include receiving and obeying God's truth, protecting our hearts, purifying our speech, guarding our eyes, and watching our paths. Through the study and application of God's word through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can grow in sanctification, leading to transformed hearts and lives.
A Life of Trust
August 21, 2016 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Proverbs 3:1–12
In this passage from the book of Proverbs, we are given instruction on how to live a life of trust in the Lord, which means dependence on Him with complete contentment. It is trusting in God alone, and not in our own understanding or abilities. We display this type of trust as we live out our lives, from how we handle our finances to how we respond to difficulties, suffering, and trials. As we look at our own lives, are we demonstrating our trust in Him?
The Call of Wisdom
August 14, 2016 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Proverbs 1:20–33
In this passage from the book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified as a woman shouting in the street, crying out at the gate to the naive, the scoffer, and the fool. We are reminded of three truths: that God's wisdom is available to us if we want to find it, that how we respond to God's wisdom determines our true identity, and that how we respond to his wisdom will determine out eternal destiny. Are we seeking God's wisdom through his Word? Are we responding in repentance and faith?
The Path of Destruction
August 7, 2016 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Proverbs 1:8–19
Proverbs chapter one warns about the path of sin and the enticement of sinners. In this sermon Pastor Phil Kooistra reminds us of the danger and allure of sin in our lives, and that we must know our own areas of weakness and temptation. We must realize the consequences of sin, as well as its tendency to grow. Are we examining our areas of weakness and removing temptation wherever possible? Are we killing sin through repentance and spending time in God's word so that we will know the truth and recognize the counterfeit?
The Way of Wisdom
July 31, 2016 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Proverbs 31
In Proverbs 31, King Lemuel shares an oracle that his mother taught him. It includes a portrait of a godly woman, one who works out her faith through her hands. Among other things, she brings consistent good to her husband and children, willingly serving and working for their benefit. This godly woman is an example of how the Holy Spirit works in and through the lives of believers as we give ourselves away in service to others.
The Wisdom of Diligence
July 24, 2016 • Guest • Proverbs
The book of Proverbs has much to say about diligence and hard work. It compares the sluggard to the diligent, and warns of the consequences of laziness. We were created in the image and likeness of a God who works. As believers, do we separate the secular from the sacred in the area of work? Is our work ethic pervasively Christian?
The Wisdom of Discipline
July 17, 2016 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Proverbs 15:31–33
Discipline is a gift from God, and should be a way of life for believers. The book of Proverbs has much to say about discipline, and warns those who would neglect it. We are admonished to listen to reproof, and told that in doing so we will acquire understanding. Discipline removes the folly of sin and pride, and makes way for instruction and wisdom. It brings peace, righteousness, and the fruit of right living. As we examine our own lives, do we see the fruit of this type of discipline?
The Power of Words
July 10, 2016 • Guest • Proverbs 18:21
Proverbs 18:21 tells us that "death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." Because words can create life or death, it is crucial that we choose our words wisely. The things we say should edify and give grace to those who hear them. Jesus stated that "out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:34). Are our hearts being transformed as we study God's word and grow in sanctification? Are we speaking words of life?
The Beginning of Wisdom
July 3, 2016 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Proverbs 1:1–7
A proverb is a saying of wisdom, often an object lesson that helps us to choose the best path. In the book of Proverbs, we have not only the wisdom of the wisest of men, but the wisdom and revelation of God. We are told that among other things, these proverbs will help us to know wisdom and instruction, to develop discernment and discipline, and to help us grow in wise dealing, righteousness, justice and equity. We are told that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Are we living in the fear of the Lord? Do we delight in God's word and walk in his ways? From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.
