Real Christmas
Real You
December 29, 2019 • Dave DiDonato
If those closest to you were asked to describe the “REAL You” in one sentence, what would they say? If those closest to you were asked to describe the “REAL You” in one sentence…what would you desire they say? Does this describe the REAL You? A Witness for Jesus A Bold Witness for Jesus A Humble, Bold Witness for Jesus An Excited, Humble, Bold Witness for Jesus An Excited, Humble, Bold Witness for Jesus who Multiplies oneself If those closest to you were asked to describe the “REAL You” in one sentence, what would they say? An Excited, Humble, Bold Witness for Jesus who Multiplies oneself. Your will, Your way, Do whatever You want to, Come move, Come reign, Let Your Kingdom invade our hearts.
Real Love
December 22, 2019 • Ron Moore
Anna knew and taught God’s Word. Do you? Naturalism: No God. Closed physical system. Secularism: Only here and now. Make the most of life. Postmodernism: No objective truth. Right and wrong relative. Moralistic Therapeutic Deism: God just wants me to be happy. Take Action: 2020 Focus: Read Through the Bible Do you want to join with other believers as we read through the Bible in 2020? Sign up to receive devotions in your inbox each morning and get access to the Bible2020 Facebook group with more exclusive content. 2020 Commitment: Grounded Email Greg DeVore at http://gdevore@biblechapel.org Anna worshipped. Do you? Worship begins in the heart… …and is demonstrated by acts of love and service Take Action: Where will you serve in 2020? How will you show your children what service and sacrifice looks like? When you have or know of care needs, email http://caregiving@biblechapel.org Anna told others about Jesus. Do you? 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…. Take Action: Learn how to share the Gospel (contact Greg DeVore at http://gdevore@biblechapel.org) Make a list of five people you want to have spiritual conversations with in 2020 and pray for them daily.
Real Peace
December 15, 2019 • Ron Moore
The Context (Luke 2:22-24) The ritual of purification and consecration was to be done forty days after birth (Lev. 12:3-4; Ex. 13:1-2). “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons” was the sacrifice God allowed for the poor. Everything was done by Mary and Joseph “according to the Law….” God made his Son play by the rules. Simeon (Luke 2:25-26) Righteous (Trust. Obedience. Repentance. Perseverance.) Devout Waiting for consolation of Israel Indwelt by Holy Spirit Simeon’s Prayer (Luke 2:27-32) Jesus brings peace in life and death. Jesus makes salvation possible for “all peoples.” Simeon’s Prophesy (Luke 2:33-35) Jesus is the dividing line. Response to him will cause “the fall and rising of many.” Our response to Jesus reveals what is in our hearts. Simeon’s Story: Three Observations Only Jesus can give you the peace that you desire. Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. Only Jesus can give you the peace you need when the storm hits. Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. What do you produce in the lives of others? Peace or Conflict? Romans 8:6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. Do you want to receive a daily devotional delivered right to your inbox? Sign up at http://biblechapel.org/resources If you want to know how you can grow deeper as a believer, contact Greg DeVore, http://gdevore@biblechapel.org. Do you have a need we can pray for? Walk alongside you? Do you know of another person who needs care? Let us know at http://caregiving@biblechapel.org.
Real Joy
December 8, 2019 • Dave DiDonato
Is Jesus truly King of your life? Response #1: Opposition – Jesus is a threat to my kingdom In 2017 Barna Group and the Pew Research Center put out a report of the top 100 cities in our country that are considered “Post Christian”. The report starts: “It may come as no surprise that the influence of Christianity in the United States is waning. Rates of church attendance, religious affiliation, belief in God, prayer and Bible-reading have all been dropping for decades. By consequence, the role of religion in public life has been slowly diminishing, and the church no longer functions with the cultural authority it held in times past. These are unique days for the church in America as it learns what it means to flourish in a new “Post-Christian” era.” – Barna Group Suppress the Truth Culture Individualism – Truth is dictated by the individual, “it’s all about me” Religious Pluralism – All paths to lead to God and are equally true Moral Relativism – Moral Truth is subjective (can change over time) not objective (unchanging) Response #2: Indifference – Jesus in my head but not on my throne Response #3: Real Joy – The experience of those positioned in Jesus and expressed through worship of Jesus JOY – Chara GRACE - Charis Is Jesus truly King of your life? WHY isn’t Jesus King of your life?