9-2 Loving God with all our Strength Judges 16 Minister Joel Eugene
September 29, 2024 • Joel Eugene • Judges 16
9-2 Loving God with all our Strength Judges 16 Minister Joel Eugene
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts
September 22, 2024 • David Roberts, Minister Dave Roberts • Judges 15
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts
9-29 Loving God with all our Strength Judges 16 Minister Joel Eugene 10:30 am
September 29, 2024 • Joel Eugene • Judges 16
Loving God with all our Strength
Judges 16
Minister Joel Eugene
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts 10:30 am
September 22, 2024 • David Roberts, Minister Dave Roberts • Judges 15
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts
Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation
September 15, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges 14
Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation
Love Returned Series
Judges 14
LOVING GOD WITH ALL OUR MINDS
Temptation itself is not sin; it becomes sin when we act upon it. As a spider's web is designed to ensnare its prey, temptation catches us off guard and leads us into sin. We often don't see the web until it's too late—until we've already been caught. This is evident in the life of Samson, a man called by God to be a judge and deliverer of Israel but who was ensnared by his lust.
Judges 14 shows that Samson had a weakness for women, particularly a young Philistine woman who "looked good to him." Instead of seeking God's guidance, he followed his desires, demanding that his parents arrange the marriage despite their pleas. This is a powerful reminder that when we allow our eyes and fleshly desires to lead us, we are not walking in the Spirit but in the flesh.
The Consequences of Following the Flesh Samson’s story teaches us the danger of relying on our own strength and desires instead of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Our natural inclination, as those born into sin, is to be led by the spirit of lust and self-indulgence. But when we are born again, we are called to be led by the Spirit of Love. This shift in guidance offers us security, knowing we are not navigating life alone but with the wisdom and strength of God.
Samson’s misuse of his God-given authority highlights the perils of pride. He used his strength, a gift from God meant for deliverance, to satisfy his vendettas. This is a clear example of how unchecked gifts can lead to destruction. Like a wild stallion, our talents and abilities can run rampant if not surrendered to the Holy Spirit's control. God places authority in our lives to guide and protect us, but when we reject that authority, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the enemy's traps.
Wisdom Over Impulse If we base our decisions on what feels or looks good at the moment, we will fall into Satan's deceptions repeatedly. True wisdom discerns beyond the surface and listens to the voice of the Spirit. Judges 14:4-5 reveal that God was still at work despite Samson’s rebellion. This shows us that God's sovereignty can work through even our mistakes, though it doesn't excuse our sins. It’s a reminder that God's ways are higher than ours, and sometimes, we must trust in His plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to us.
Samson’s parents may have feared that their son had strayed too far, and in many ways, he had. Yet God still had a plan to use Samson, though it came with devastating consequences. This teaches us that while God's will cannot be thwarted, our disobedience can bring about unnecessary suffering. Samson's story is a stark reminder that we can either align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings, or we can rebel and suffer under the curse of our own choices.
The Illusion of Power Samson's extraordinary strength was a gift from God, as demonstrated when he tore apart a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:6). However, this display of power should have humbled him and drawn him closer to God, but it did not. Samson continued in his sinful ways, showing us that experiencing God's power is not the same as submitting to His Lordship. It's not enough to recognize God's power; we must yield to it and allow it to transform our lives, or we will bear the weight of our disobedience.
As the chapter progresses, Samson becomes entangled in a web of problems from his association with the Philistine woman. The adage holds: "You cannot play with fire and not get burned." Despite his compromised position, the Spirit of the Lord still came upon Samson, enabling him to kill thirty men. This momentary empowerment should not distract us from the broader lesson: God's use of someone in a particular moment does not justify a lifestyle of sin. Consistency in walking with God is what truly matters.
The world is full of people who may exhibit moments of godliness but lack a consistent walk with the Lord. The Bible is clear: we cannot serve God and the devil (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). To truly walk in God's strength and purpose, we must fully surrender to Him. There is no middle ground. Samson’s life is a warning of what happens when we live divided between our own desires and God’s will.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts 9 am
September 22, 2024 • David Roberts, Minister Dave Roberts • Judges 15
9-22 Vengeance, Strength, & Deliverance Judges 15 Minister David Roberts
9-15 Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation 10 am
September 15, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges 14
Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation
Love Returned Series
Judges 14
LOVING GOD WITH ALL OUR MINDS
Temptation itself is not sin; it becomes sin when we act upon it. As a spider's web is designed to ensnare its prey, temptation catches us off guard and leads us into sin. We often don't see the web until it's too late—until we've already been caught. This is evident in the life of Samson, a man called by God to be a judge and deliverer of Israel but who was ensnared by his lust.
Judges 14 shows that Samson had a weakness for women, particularly a young Philistine woman who "looked good to him." Instead of seeking God's guidance, he followed his desires, demanding that his parents arrange the marriage despite their pleas. This is a powerful reminder that when we allow our eyes and fleshly desires to lead us, we are not walking in the Spirit but in the flesh.
The Consequences of Following the Flesh Samson’s story teaches us the danger of relying on our own strength and desires instead of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Our natural inclination, as those born into sin, is to be led by the spirit of lust and self-indulgence. But when we are born again, we are called to be led by the Spirit of Love. This shift in guidance offers us security, knowing we are not navigating life alone but with the wisdom and strength of God.
Samson’s misuse of his God-given authority highlights the perils of pride. He used his strength, a gift from God meant for deliverance, to satisfy his vendettas. This is a clear example of how unchecked gifts can lead to destruction. Like a wild stallion, our talents and abilities can run rampant if not surrendered to the Holy Spirit's control. God places authority in our lives to guide and protect us, but when we reject that authority, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the enemy's traps.
Wisdom Over Impulse If we base our decisions on what feels or looks good at the moment, we will fall into Satan's deceptions repeatedly. True wisdom discerns beyond the surface and listens to the voice of the Spirit. Judges 14:4-5 reveal that God was still at work despite Samson’s rebellion. This shows us that God's sovereignty can work through even our mistakes, though it doesn't excuse our sins. It’s a reminder that God's ways are higher than ours, and sometimes, we must trust in His plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to us.
Samson’s parents may have feared that their son had strayed too far, and in many ways, he had. Yet God still had a plan to use Samson, though it came with devastating consequences. This teaches us that while God's will cannot be thwarted, our disobedience can bring about unnecessary suffering. Samson's story is a stark reminder that we can either align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings, or we can rebel and suffer under the curse of our own choices.
The Illusion of Power Samson's extraordinary strength was a gift from God, as demonstrated when he tore apart a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:6). However, this display of power should have humbled him and drawn him closer to God, but it did not. Samson continued in his sinful ways, showing us that experiencing God's power is not the same as submitting to His Lordship. It's not enough to recognize God's power; we must yield to it and allow it to transform our lives, or we will bear the weight of our disobedience.
As the chapter progresses, Samson becomes entangled in a web of problems from his association with the Philistine woman. The adage holds: "You cannot play with fire and not get burned." Despite his compromised position, the Spirit of the Lord still came upon Samson, enabling him to kill thirty men. This momentary empowerment should not distract us from the broader lesson: God's use of someone in a particular moment does not justify a lifestyle of sin. Consistency in walking with God is what truly matters.
The world is full of people who may exhibit moments of godliness but lack a consistent walk with the Lord. The Bible is clear: we cannot serve God and the devil (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). To truly walk in God's strength and purpose, we must fully surrender to Him. There is no middle ground. Samson’s life is a warning of what happens when we live divided between our own desires and God’s will.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
9-8 Where Does Your Strength Lie? Judges 13 Pastor Steve Rahter
September 8, 2024 • Pastor Steve Rahter • Judges 13
Sunday, September 8th
Where Does Your Strength Lie?
Judges 13
Pastor Steve Rahter
\9-8 Where Does Your Strength Lie? Judges 13 Pastor Steve Rahter 10:30 am
September 8, 2024 • Steve Rahter, Pastor Steve Rahter • Judges 13
Sunday, September 8th
Where Does Your Strength Lie?
Judges 13
Pastor Steve Rahter
9-15 Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation 9 am
September 15, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges 14
Caught in the Web: Lessons from Samson's Temptation
Love Returned Series
Judges 14
LOVING GOD WITH ALL OUR MINDS
Temptation itself is not sin; it becomes sin when we act upon it. As a spider's web is designed to ensnare its prey, temptation catches us off guard and leads us into sin. We often don't see the web until it's too late—until we've already been caught. This is evident in the life of Samson, a man called by God to be a judge and deliverer of Israel but who was ensnared by his lust.
Judges 14 shows that Samson had a weakness for women, particularly a young Philistine woman who "looked good to him." Instead of seeking God's guidance, he followed his desires, demanding that his parents arrange the marriage despite their pleas. This is a powerful reminder that when we allow our eyes and fleshly desires to lead us, we are not walking in the Spirit but in the flesh.
The Consequences of Following the Flesh Samson’s story teaches us the danger of relying on our own strength and desires instead of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Our natural inclination, as those born into sin, is to be led by the spirit of lust and self-indulgence. But when we are born again, we are called to be led by the Spirit of Love. This shift in guidance offers us security, knowing we are not navigating life alone but with the wisdom and strength of God.
Samson’s misuse of his God-given authority highlights the perils of pride. He used his strength, a gift from God meant for deliverance, to satisfy his vendettas. This is a clear example of how unchecked gifts can lead to destruction. Like a wild stallion, our talents and abilities can run rampant if not surrendered to the Holy Spirit's control. God places authority in our lives to guide and protect us, but when we reject that authority, we leave ourselves vulnerable to the enemy's traps.
Wisdom Over Impulse If we base our decisions on what feels or looks good at the moment, we will fall into Satan's deceptions repeatedly. True wisdom discerns beyond the surface and listens to the voice of the Spirit. Judges 14:4-5 reveal that God was still at work despite Samson’s rebellion. This shows us that God's sovereignty can work through even our mistakes, though it doesn't excuse our sins. It’s a reminder that God's ways are higher than ours, and sometimes, we must trust in His plan, even when it doesn’t make sense to us.
Samson’s parents may have feared that their son had strayed too far, and in many ways, he had. Yet God still had a plan to use Samson, though it came with devastating consequences. This teaches us that while God's will cannot be thwarted, our disobedience can bring about unnecessary suffering. Samson's story is a stark reminder that we can either align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings, or we can rebel and suffer under the curse of our own choices.
The Illusion of Power Samson's extraordinary strength was a gift from God, as demonstrated when he tore apart a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:6). However, this display of power should have humbled him and drawn him closer to God, but it did not. Samson continued in his sinful ways, showing us that experiencing God's power is not the same as submitting to His Lordship. It's not enough to recognize God's power; we must yield to it and allow it to transform our lives, or we will bear the weight of our disobedience.
As the chapter progresses, Samson becomes entangled in a web of problems from his association with the Philistine woman. The adage holds: "You cannot play with fire and not get burned." Despite his compromised position, the Spirit of the Lord still came upon Samson, enabling him to kill thirty men. This momentary empowerment should not distract us from the broader lesson: God's use of someone in a particular moment does not justify a lifestyle of sin. Consistency in walking with God is what truly matters.
The world is full of people who may exhibit moments of godliness but lack a consistent walk with the Lord. The Bible is clear: we cannot serve God and the devil (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). To truly walk in God's strength and purpose, we must fully surrender to Him. There is no middle ground. Samson’s life is a warning of what happens when we live divided between our own desires and God’s will.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
9-1 Loving God With All Our Strength
September 1, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges
Loving God With All Our Strength
Love Returned Series
When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He highlighted the importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the final part of the series, we will focus on what it means to love God with all our strength. This includes our physical actions, efforts, and the use of our resources in a way that honors and glorifies God.
1. Understanding 'Strength' in the Biblical Context
In the Old Testament, the word translated as 'strength' comes from the Hebrew word 'meod,' which means 'muchness' or 'abundance.' This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is 'ischus,' which relates to physical power, might, and ability. This continuity implies giving God the best of everything we have—our physical energy, resources, and skills. In The New Testament, The Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is "ischus," which relates to physical power, might, and ability. It refers to the physical and practical aspect of loving God through our actions.
Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
2. Loving God with Physical Actions
Work is Worship - Our daily tasks, whether at work, home, or in ministry, are not just chores but opportunities to express our love for God. We intensely worship God when we perform our duties diligently and excellently, recognizing that we are working for the Lord, not human masters.
Work is Service - Loving God with our strength also involves serving others. Acts of kindness, charity, and service channel our physical energy toward fulfilling God's commands.
3. Loving God with Our Resources
Proverbs 3:9 - “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.”
Stewardship: Our finances, possessions, and time can be used to honor God. Loving Him with our strength means being wise stewards, using these resources to advance His kingdom and support others.
Sacrificial Giving: Giving sacrificially is a powerful demonstration of loving God with our strength. It shows that we are willing to use what we have for His purposes, even when it costs us something.
4. Loving God in Perseverance
Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Endurance in Faith: Loving God with all our strength also involves perseverance in our faith and commitment to His commands. This includes staying faithful in prayer, worship, and obedience, even when we face challenges and hardships.
Spiritual Discipline: Regular prayer, fasting, and Bible study require effort and discipline. By dedicating our time and energy to spiritual growth, we can grow in the grace of perseverance.
5. Practical Applications
Daily Surrender: Start each day by committing your strength to God. Pray for His guidance in using your physical and mental energy for His glory.
Evaluate Priorities: Reflect on how you use your time, money, and talents. Are there areas where you can better align these with loving God?
Serve Actively: Look for opportunities to serve in your community, church, or workplace. Consider how you can use the strength God has given you to help others.
Conclusion: Loving God with all our strength means dedicating our physical energy, resources, and actions to His service. It is an active and intentional expression of our love for Him, seen in how we work, serve, give, and persevere in faith. As we grow in this aspect of love, we reflect God’s love more fully in our lives.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
9-1 Loving God With All Our Strength Love Returned Series 10:30 AM
September 1, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges
Loving God With All Our Strength
Love Returned Series
When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He highlighted the importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the final part of the series, we will focus on what it means to love God with all our strength. This includes our physical actions, efforts, and the use of our resources in a way that honors and glorifies God.
1. Understanding 'Strength' in the Biblical Context
In the Old Testament, the word translated as 'strength' comes from the Hebrew word 'meod,' which means 'muchness' or 'abundance.' This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is 'ischus,' which relates to physical power, might, and ability. This continuity implies giving God the best of everything we have—our physical energy, resources, and skills. In The New Testament, The Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is "ischus," which relates to physical power, might, and ability. It refers to the physical and practical aspect of loving God through our actions.
Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
2. Loving God with Physical Actions
Work is Worship - Our daily tasks, whether at work, home, or in ministry, are not just chores but opportunities to express our love for God. We intensely worship God when we perform our duties diligently and excellently, recognizing that we are working for the Lord, not human masters.
Work is Service - Loving God with our strength also involves serving others. Acts of kindness, charity, and service channel our physical energy toward fulfilling God's commands.
3. Loving God with Our Resources
Proverbs 3:9 - “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.”
Stewardship: Our finances, possessions, and time can be used to honor God. Loving Him with our strength means being wise stewards, using these resources to advance His kingdom and support others.
Sacrificial Giving: Giving sacrificially is a powerful demonstration of loving God with our strength. It shows that we are willing to use what we have for His purposes, even when it costs us something.
4. Loving God in Perseverance
Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Endurance in Faith: Loving God with all our strength also involves perseverance in our faith and commitment to His commands. This includes staying faithful in prayer, worship, and obedience, even when we face challenges and hardships.
Spiritual Discipline: Regular prayer, fasting, and Bible study require effort and discipline. By dedicating our time and energy to spiritual growth, we can grow in the grace of perseverance.
5. Practical Applications
Daily Surrender: Start each day by committing your strength to God. Pray for His guidance in using your physical and mental energy for His glory.
Evaluate Priorities: Reflect on how you use your time, money, and talents. Are there areas where you can better align these with loving God?
Serve Actively: Look for opportunities to serve in your community, church, or workplace. Consider how you can use the strength God has given you to help others.
Conclusion: Loving God with all our strength means dedicating our physical energy, resources, and actions to His service. It is an active and intentional expression of our love for Him, seen in how we work, serve, give, and persevere in faith. As we grow in this aspect of love, we reflect God’s love more fully in our lives.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
\9-8 Where Does Your Strength Lie? Judges 13 Pastor Steve Rahter 9 am
September 8, 2024 • Steve Rahter, Pastor Steve Rahter • Judges 13
Sunday, September 8th
Where Does Your Strength Lie?
Judges 13
Pastor Steve Rahter
9-1 Loving God With All Our Strength Love Returned Series 9 am
September 1, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Pastor Joshua Kennedy • Judges
Loving God With All Our Strength
Love Returned Series
When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He highlighted the importance of loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. In the final part of the series, we will focus on what it means to love God with all our strength. This includes our physical actions, efforts, and the use of our resources in a way that honors and glorifies God.
1. Understanding 'Strength' in the Biblical Context
In the Old Testament, the word translated as 'strength' comes from the Hebrew word 'meod,' which means 'muchness' or 'abundance.' This concept is echoed in the New Testament, where the Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is 'ischus,' which relates to physical power, might, and ability. This continuity implies giving God the best of everything we have—our physical energy, resources, and skills. In The New Testament, The Greek word for strength in Mark 12:30 is "ischus," which relates to physical power, might, and ability. It refers to the physical and practical aspect of loving God through our actions.
Colossians 3:23 - “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
2. Loving God with Physical Actions
Work is Worship - Our daily tasks, whether at work, home, or in ministry, are not just chores but opportunities to express our love for God. We intensely worship God when we perform our duties diligently and excellently, recognizing that we are working for the Lord, not human masters.
Work is Service - Loving God with our strength also involves serving others. Acts of kindness, charity, and service channel our physical energy toward fulfilling God's commands.
3. Loving God with Our Resources
Proverbs 3:9 - “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops.”
Stewardship: Our finances, possessions, and time can be used to honor God. Loving Him with our strength means being wise stewards, using these resources to advance His kingdom and support others.
Sacrificial Giving: Giving sacrificially is a powerful demonstration of loving God with our strength. It shows that we are willing to use what we have for His purposes, even when it costs us something.
4. Loving God in Perseverance
Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Endurance in Faith: Loving God with all our strength also involves perseverance in our faith and commitment to His commands. This includes staying faithful in prayer, worship, and obedience, even when we face challenges and hardships.
Spiritual Discipline: Regular prayer, fasting, and Bible study require effort and discipline. By dedicating our time and energy to spiritual growth, we can grow in the grace of perseverance.
5. Practical Applications
Daily Surrender: Start each day by committing your strength to God. Pray for His guidance in using your physical and mental energy for His glory.
Evaluate Priorities: Reflect on how you use your time, money, and talents. Are there areas where you can better align these with loving God?
Serve Actively: Look for opportunities to serve in your community, church, or workplace. Consider how you can use the strength God has given you to help others.
Conclusion: Loving God with all our strength means dedicating our physical energy, resources, and actions to His service. It is an active and intentional expression of our love for Him, seen in how we work, serve, give, and persevere in faith. As we grow in this aspect of love, we reflect God’s love more fully in our lives.
--
Praise Tabernacle
Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor
2235 Ocean Heights
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
mailto:pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com
http://praisetabernacle.church
(609) 927-4560(w), (609) 402-8869(c)
8/18/24 Happiness Proverbs Loved Returned Series Pastor Joshua Kennedy 10:30 am
August 18, 2024 • Pastor Josh, Joshua Kennedy • Proverbs
