God makes unilateral covenants throughout Genesis, promising blessings without conditions. This includes promising Noah survival through the flood, telling Abram he will make him a great nation, and vowing to Jacob that he will watch over and protect him. These covenants communicate God's unchanging desire to be in relationship with humanity, even after the fall separates them, and that he will restore their broken relationship. The covenants also establish God and Satan as opponents, with God putting enmity between mankind and Satan.
1) Song of Songs is a biblical book about romantic love between a man and woman that is rarely discussed in church due to its intimate imagery.
2) While the book does not explicitly mention God, it can be understood as representing God's love for His people, as God is described elsewhere as the husband of Israel.
3) Experiencing romantic love through marriage and family helps people understand aspects of God's nature and love for humanity that are difficult to grasp otherwise, such as selflessness, commitment through good and bad times, and unconditional love even when not reciprocated.
Mark shares his experience of leaving the church as a young person due to hypocrisy but later becoming a minister. He discusses having a relationship with God rather than following an organized religion. He poses two questions - can you know for sure you will go to heaven, and what would you say to God about letting you into heaven. Mark explains that heaven is a free gift of God through faith in Jesus, as we are all sinners and cannot save ourselves from death. He outlines how Jesus solved this problem by taking our sins upon himself on the cross. Mark encourages committing one's life to Jesus through repentance, confession, and baptism.
Prayer is our hotline to Heaven. Connecting with Jesus through prayer is as simple, as real, and even more reliable than picking up the phone and calling your best friend. He's always on call to meet your every need.
The document provides an overview and analysis of the Epistles of John from the Bible. It discusses the authorship, purpose, and key themes of 1 John, 2 John, and 3 John. The epistles are said to have been written by the Apostle John to encourage early Christian communities in faith, love, and to warn against heresies. They emphasize living with love for one another as commanded by God and exemplified by Jesus Christ. Various commentaries and analyses of passages are included that further discuss the meaning of love and its importance in the Christian life.
God designed marriage to meet the human need for companionship and to illustrate the relationship between God and humanity. Marriage requires commitment from both partners and from God to work successfully. The first marriage of Adam and Eve shows God's intention for the intimacy and companionship of marriage, demonstrating that sex within marriage is part of God's good design.
This document summarizes Dave Roberson's book "Grace Illustrated" which uses the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate the difference between relationship and fellowship with God. The elder brother in the parable based his relationship with his father on works rather than grace, failing to understand that his inheritance and ability to fellowship were given freely. Many Christians today make the same mistake, focusing on religious works over developing fellowship with God. True fellowship comes through understanding that salvation and all blessings are received by God's grace alone.
CONTENTS
1. THE LORD'S PRAYER PART I Based on Matt. 6:7-15
2. OUR FATHER Based on Matt. 6:9-15
3. DESIRE DETERMINES DESTINY Based on Matt. 6:7-15
4. THE ETERNAL DESIRE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
5. THE KING AND THE KINGDOM Based on Matt. 6:7-15
6. THE TRINITY OF DESIRES Based on Matt. 6:7-15
7. THE DEBT DISSOLVING DESIRE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
8. THE DESIRE FOR DELIVERANCE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
God created marriage and romantic love between a man and woman. The Bible includes accounts of romances like Adam and Eve, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Rachel to show God's view of marriage. While these relationships faced challenges, God offers forgiveness and healing. Jesus affirmed marriage by performing his first miracle at a wedding in Cana. The Bible uses the relationship between God and humanity as a marriage to represent his tender, intimate love for people.
1) Song of Songs is a biblical book about romantic love between a man and woman that is rarely discussed in church due to its intimate imagery.
2) While the book does not explicitly mention God, it can be understood as representing God's love for His people, as God is described elsewhere as the husband of Israel.
3) Experiencing romantic love through marriage and family helps people understand aspects of God's nature and love for humanity that are difficult to grasp otherwise, such as selflessness, commitment through good and bad times, and unconditional love even when not reciprocated.
Mark shares his experience of leaving the church as a young person due to hypocrisy but later becoming a minister. He discusses having a relationship with God rather than following an organized religion. He poses two questions - can you know for sure you will go to heaven, and what would you say to God about letting you into heaven. Mark explains that heaven is a free gift of God through faith in Jesus, as we are all sinners and cannot save ourselves from death. He outlines how Jesus solved this problem by taking our sins upon himself on the cross. Mark encourages committing one's life to Jesus through repentance, confession, and baptism.
Prayer is our hotline to Heaven. Connecting with Jesus through prayer is as simple, as real, and even more reliable than picking up the phone and calling your best friend. He's always on call to meet your every need.
The document provides an overview and analysis of the Epistles of John from the Bible. It discusses the authorship, purpose, and key themes of 1 John, 2 John, and 3 John. The epistles are said to have been written by the Apostle John to encourage early Christian communities in faith, love, and to warn against heresies. They emphasize living with love for one another as commanded by God and exemplified by Jesus Christ. Various commentaries and analyses of passages are included that further discuss the meaning of love and its importance in the Christian life.
God designed marriage to meet the human need for companionship and to illustrate the relationship between God and humanity. Marriage requires commitment from both partners and from God to work successfully. The first marriage of Adam and Eve shows God's intention for the intimacy and companionship of marriage, demonstrating that sex within marriage is part of God's good design.
This document summarizes Dave Roberson's book "Grace Illustrated" which uses the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate the difference between relationship and fellowship with God. The elder brother in the parable based his relationship with his father on works rather than grace, failing to understand that his inheritance and ability to fellowship were given freely. Many Christians today make the same mistake, focusing on religious works over developing fellowship with God. True fellowship comes through understanding that salvation and all blessings are received by God's grace alone.
CONTENTS
1. THE LORD'S PRAYER PART I Based on Matt. 6:7-15
2. OUR FATHER Based on Matt. 6:9-15
3. DESIRE DETERMINES DESTINY Based on Matt. 6:7-15
4. THE ETERNAL DESIRE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
5. THE KING AND THE KINGDOM Based on Matt. 6:7-15
6. THE TRINITY OF DESIRES Based on Matt. 6:7-15
7. THE DEBT DISSOLVING DESIRE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
8. THE DESIRE FOR DELIVERANCE Based on Matt. 6:7-15
God created marriage and romantic love between a man and woman. The Bible includes accounts of romances like Adam and Eve, Isaac and Rebecca, and Jacob and Rachel to show God's view of marriage. While these relationships faced challenges, God offers forgiveness and healing. Jesus affirmed marriage by performing his first miracle at a wedding in Cana. The Bible uses the relationship between God and humanity as a marriage to represent his tender, intimate love for people.
This document discusses building Christ-centered relationships through better communication with God. It encourages bringing a journal to class to record insights about relationships. Three topics are discussed: understanding God's love for us, accepting that love, and improving prayer. Several quotes are provided about the importance of prayer and God's eagerness to maintain communication. Specific examples of God's love and the power of sincere prayer are given. This week's invitation is to journal when recognizing God's love and work on improving sincerity in prayer.
Our Walk In This World, 2 John, Adapted from a Steve Shepherd sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/our-walk-in-this-world-steve-shepherd-sermon-on-christian-values-150915.asp
The document provides a summary of the Seventh and Eighth Commandments from the perspective of a Christian religious education lesson. It discusses how God wants us to respect others' possessions and not steal from our neighbors. It also explains the importance of protecting others' good reputation and not spreading lies or gossip about people, as this can seriously harm them. The lesson emphasizes that while possessions are gifts from God, they are meant to be used to support our families, help those in need, pay taxes, and support the church, rather than for selfish enjoyment alone.
This document provides an interview with the Fitzpatrick family about their experience with homeschooling. Some key points:
- Hugh and Heather Fitzpatrick have been married for over 20 years and have two children, Colin (17) and Abigail (5), after struggling with infertility and miscarriages.
- They initially considered public school but became concerned about the influences. Heather also wanted to be present for her children's first experiences.
- Their priorities for homeschooling were their strong conviction that parents have primary responsibility for education and wanting to shield their children from moral issues in public schools.
- Over 11 years of homeschooling, Heather learned to trust that pleasing God is more important than others
God sent his son Jesus as the greatest manifestation of his love for humanity. Jesus, being both fully God and fully man, willingly sacrificed himself on the cross as an atonement for humanity's sins. This selfless act of love by God the Father in sending his son and Jesus' obedience in sacrificing himself demonstrates the infinite, unconditional love that God has for humanity despite our sinfulness. Believers are called to imitate this divine love by also loving one another.
The document discusses why we need grace according to Christian theology. It begins by explaining that the purpose of the law was not to bring salvation but to reveal human sinfulness and inability to fulfill its requirements. God knew this and provided sacrifices to temporarily atone for sins, but ultimately sent Jesus as a permanent sacrifice through his death. Anyone who accepts Christ's sacrifice has their cleansing made permanent. It then discusses how mankind was created for God's purpose but became flawed, and God began redeeming creation through grace rather than the law, which cannot provide redemption.
1 Corinthians 7;1-14, Marital Sexual Obligation; Satan Can Tempt Christians; Burning With Lust; Forbidding Marriage; Can Divorced Men Be Pastors?; Is Marriage About Love?; Living In Sin And Common Law Marriage; Fornication Or Married; Divorce?
Good News About Being a Christian #5
God Is For You!
by Tim Bond
http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=44941&Sermon%20God%20Is%20For%20You!%20by%20Tim%20Bond
Perfection is really our true self, A lowering & yet a full restoration to a realising of our perfection. The anointing of our Most Holy Place. The end of all flesh, which will be the end of all mortality.
Find insight into common life struggles through wisdom shared by Phil and Al Robertson. Real-Life stories written by Phil and Al address some common struggles that bring people to the Bible looking for guidance. This 7 day reading plan is created from content in the Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible Published by Thomas Nelson.
Do you ever wonder how much sharing your faith really makes an impact? Phil and Al Robertson share thought-provoking stories about the transformations they have experienced and witnessed through God’s life-altering grace in this 7 day reading plan. Each of these stories is taken from the Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible by Thomas Nelson Publishers.
The document provides guidance on how to read and study the Bible effectively. It recommends praying before reading to ask God for understanding, setting aside regular time for Bible study to develop a habit, and meditating on what is read to understand how the passage applies personally. Key tips include paying attention to context, cross-references, and whether a passage should be taken literally or figuratively. The overall goal of Bible study is to strengthen faith in Jesus Christ.
The document summarizes the key points of the book of 1 Chronicles. It explains that 1 Chronicles was likely written by Ezra during the period after the Jewish exile to Babylon to help reestablish their national and religious identity. The book contained genealogies to help organize society based on inheritance of land and duties. It also retold their history and heritage to connect the returning exiles with their cultural roots and remind them that God wants them to belong. While focused on the exiled Jews, the document notes 1 Chronicles has a broader message that all people belong to God's family regardless of earthly circumstances.
1) A Sunday school teacher asked her class who the most important woman in the Bible is. A boy said Eve because Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve are named after her.
2) The document discusses how the first word babies usually learn is "no" and how parents tried to avoid using that word but ultimately had to for safety reasons.
3) It argues that while it's important to teach people what to say "no" to, the church focuses too much on that and not enough on what to say "yes" to, like helping others. It claims Jesus focused more on helping people than condemning sins.
This document argues that premarital sex should be avoided based on a biblical interpretation. It claims that God created sex and intended it to be expressed only within marriage. The creation account in Genesis depicts sex and marriage as divine gifts. While God sanctions sex within marriage, the New Testament uses terms like "porneia" to condemn premarital sex as immoral. Overall, the document takes the position that abstaining from premarital sex aligns with God's design and is for one's spiritual well-being.
This document is a summary of a six-book series of children's Bible devotionals titled "5-Minute Bible Devotionals." Each devotional spreads presents a Bible verse, with a brief explanation and activity. The books connect Bible themes and verses to teach Christian values to children ages 4 and up. The devotionals are designed to explore lessons through complementary actions, discussions, or activities. The series aims to engage both children and parents in exploring faith through short, easy-to-use devotionals.
The document provides instructions for using "The Bridge Illustration" to summarize the Christian gospel message. It can be presented in 3 stages:
1) Man's problem of sin separating him from God, resulting in spiritual death.
2) God's remedy through Jesus' death on the cross to forgive sins and make salvation a free gift through faith.
3) Man's response to repent of sins and accept Jesus into his life by faith to cross over from death to eternal life.
Paul addresses an objection to his teaching on justification by grace - that if sin causes grace to increase, then people may as well sin more so that grace can abound even more. He rejects this, saying we cannot continue in sin just because of grace. Justification declares us righteous but sanctification transforms us through dying to sin and living for righteousness. Paul pursues this theme by arguing that true faith leads to holiness, not license, as we have been united with Christ in his death and resurrection.
Reflecting the Nature of God Rev Amanda ConnellSister Lara
This is an audio message that was shared in our Live Voice Conference in Beyond the Veil Prophetic Ministries, that was shared by Rev Amanda Connell on the subject of Reflecting the Nature of God. These pages are designed for the beginner, and the advanced believer to grow in the Nature of God for a deeper walk of intimacy with God. We pray it is a blessing to you, today.
The document provides a summary of the book of Deuteronomy, which retells the laws given to the Israelites. It discusses how God used both intrinsic and imposed consequences to discipline the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness. While some discipline was harsh, it was intended to teach the Israelites to follow God's laws for their benefit. The document argues that God hopes His people will one day mature and obey His laws not due to fear of punishment but because they understand the intrinsic blessings that result from following God's wise guidance.
The document summarizes a sermon about the book of Ezra. It discusses how after the Jews were exiled to Babylon, God moved Cyrus, king of Persia, to allow the Jews to return and rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. Though only around 50,000 Jews returned, they made progress rebuilding until facing opposition which halted construction. God then sent prophets Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people to resume building. When challenges arose again, the Jews trusted God and continued working. King Darius later issued a decree fully funding the project, and the temple was completed in 515 BC, restoring the Jews' relationship with God.
This document discusses building Christ-centered relationships through better communication with God. It encourages bringing a journal to class to record insights about relationships. Three topics are discussed: understanding God's love for us, accepting that love, and improving prayer. Several quotes are provided about the importance of prayer and God's eagerness to maintain communication. Specific examples of God's love and the power of sincere prayer are given. This week's invitation is to journal when recognizing God's love and work on improving sincerity in prayer.
Our Walk In This World, 2 John, Adapted from a Steve Shepherd sermon http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermons/our-walk-in-this-world-steve-shepherd-sermon-on-christian-values-150915.asp
The document provides a summary of the Seventh and Eighth Commandments from the perspective of a Christian religious education lesson. It discusses how God wants us to respect others' possessions and not steal from our neighbors. It also explains the importance of protecting others' good reputation and not spreading lies or gossip about people, as this can seriously harm them. The lesson emphasizes that while possessions are gifts from God, they are meant to be used to support our families, help those in need, pay taxes, and support the church, rather than for selfish enjoyment alone.
This document provides an interview with the Fitzpatrick family about their experience with homeschooling. Some key points:
- Hugh and Heather Fitzpatrick have been married for over 20 years and have two children, Colin (17) and Abigail (5), after struggling with infertility and miscarriages.
- They initially considered public school but became concerned about the influences. Heather also wanted to be present for her children's first experiences.
- Their priorities for homeschooling were their strong conviction that parents have primary responsibility for education and wanting to shield their children from moral issues in public schools.
- Over 11 years of homeschooling, Heather learned to trust that pleasing God is more important than others
God sent his son Jesus as the greatest manifestation of his love for humanity. Jesus, being both fully God and fully man, willingly sacrificed himself on the cross as an atonement for humanity's sins. This selfless act of love by God the Father in sending his son and Jesus' obedience in sacrificing himself demonstrates the infinite, unconditional love that God has for humanity despite our sinfulness. Believers are called to imitate this divine love by also loving one another.
The document discusses why we need grace according to Christian theology. It begins by explaining that the purpose of the law was not to bring salvation but to reveal human sinfulness and inability to fulfill its requirements. God knew this and provided sacrifices to temporarily atone for sins, but ultimately sent Jesus as a permanent sacrifice through his death. Anyone who accepts Christ's sacrifice has their cleansing made permanent. It then discusses how mankind was created for God's purpose but became flawed, and God began redeeming creation through grace rather than the law, which cannot provide redemption.
1 Corinthians 7;1-14, Marital Sexual Obligation; Satan Can Tempt Christians; Burning With Lust; Forbidding Marriage; Can Divorced Men Be Pastors?; Is Marriage About Love?; Living In Sin And Common Law Marriage; Fornication Or Married; Divorce?
Good News About Being a Christian #5
God Is For You!
by Tim Bond
http://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon.asp?SermonID=44941&Sermon%20God%20Is%20For%20You!%20by%20Tim%20Bond
Perfection is really our true self, A lowering & yet a full restoration to a realising of our perfection. The anointing of our Most Holy Place. The end of all flesh, which will be the end of all mortality.
Find insight into common life struggles through wisdom shared by Phil and Al Robertson. Real-Life stories written by Phil and Al address some common struggles that bring people to the Bible looking for guidance. This 7 day reading plan is created from content in the Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible Published by Thomas Nelson.
Do you ever wonder how much sharing your faith really makes an impact? Phil and Al Robertson share thought-provoking stories about the transformations they have experienced and witnessed through God’s life-altering grace in this 7 day reading plan. Each of these stories is taken from the Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible by Thomas Nelson Publishers.
The document provides guidance on how to read and study the Bible effectively. It recommends praying before reading to ask God for understanding, setting aside regular time for Bible study to develop a habit, and meditating on what is read to understand how the passage applies personally. Key tips include paying attention to context, cross-references, and whether a passage should be taken literally or figuratively. The overall goal of Bible study is to strengthen faith in Jesus Christ.
The document summarizes the key points of the book of 1 Chronicles. It explains that 1 Chronicles was likely written by Ezra during the period after the Jewish exile to Babylon to help reestablish their national and religious identity. The book contained genealogies to help organize society based on inheritance of land and duties. It also retold their history and heritage to connect the returning exiles with their cultural roots and remind them that God wants them to belong. While focused on the exiled Jews, the document notes 1 Chronicles has a broader message that all people belong to God's family regardless of earthly circumstances.
1) A Sunday school teacher asked her class who the most important woman in the Bible is. A boy said Eve because Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve are named after her.
2) The document discusses how the first word babies usually learn is "no" and how parents tried to avoid using that word but ultimately had to for safety reasons.
3) It argues that while it's important to teach people what to say "no" to, the church focuses too much on that and not enough on what to say "yes" to, like helping others. It claims Jesus focused more on helping people than condemning sins.
This document argues that premarital sex should be avoided based on a biblical interpretation. It claims that God created sex and intended it to be expressed only within marriage. The creation account in Genesis depicts sex and marriage as divine gifts. While God sanctions sex within marriage, the New Testament uses terms like "porneia" to condemn premarital sex as immoral. Overall, the document takes the position that abstaining from premarital sex aligns with God's design and is for one's spiritual well-being.
This document is a summary of a six-book series of children's Bible devotionals titled "5-Minute Bible Devotionals." Each devotional spreads presents a Bible verse, with a brief explanation and activity. The books connect Bible themes and verses to teach Christian values to children ages 4 and up. The devotionals are designed to explore lessons through complementary actions, discussions, or activities. The series aims to engage both children and parents in exploring faith through short, easy-to-use devotionals.
The document provides instructions for using "The Bridge Illustration" to summarize the Christian gospel message. It can be presented in 3 stages:
1) Man's problem of sin separating him from God, resulting in spiritual death.
2) God's remedy through Jesus' death on the cross to forgive sins and make salvation a free gift through faith.
3) Man's response to repent of sins and accept Jesus into his life by faith to cross over from death to eternal life.
Paul addresses an objection to his teaching on justification by grace - that if sin causes grace to increase, then people may as well sin more so that grace can abound even more. He rejects this, saying we cannot continue in sin just because of grace. Justification declares us righteous but sanctification transforms us through dying to sin and living for righteousness. Paul pursues this theme by arguing that true faith leads to holiness, not license, as we have been united with Christ in his death and resurrection.
Reflecting the Nature of God Rev Amanda ConnellSister Lara
This is an audio message that was shared in our Live Voice Conference in Beyond the Veil Prophetic Ministries, that was shared by Rev Amanda Connell on the subject of Reflecting the Nature of God. These pages are designed for the beginner, and the advanced believer to grow in the Nature of God for a deeper walk of intimacy with God. We pray it is a blessing to you, today.
The document provides a summary of the book of Deuteronomy, which retells the laws given to the Israelites. It discusses how God used both intrinsic and imposed consequences to discipline the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness. While some discipline was harsh, it was intended to teach the Israelites to follow God's laws for their benefit. The document argues that God hopes His people will one day mature and obey His laws not due to fear of punishment but because they understand the intrinsic blessings that result from following God's wise guidance.
The document summarizes a sermon about the book of Ezra. It discusses how after the Jews were exiled to Babylon, God moved Cyrus, king of Persia, to allow the Jews to return and rebuild Jerusalem and the temple. Though only around 50,000 Jews returned, they made progress rebuilding until facing opposition which halted construction. God then sent prophets Haggai and Zechariah to encourage the people to resume building. When challenges arose again, the Jews trusted God and continued working. King Darius later issued a decree fully funding the project, and the temple was completed in 515 BC, restoring the Jews' relationship with God.
This document provides an introduction and overview of the book of Joshua. It discusses how Joshua becomes the new leader of Israel after Moses' death and leads them into the Promised Land. A key story examined is Rahab and the spies, which shows how God was using Israel to make Himself known to other nations, as Rahab demonstrates awareness of God's power through what happened in Egypt. The document suggests Israel was chosen so God could establish His credibility among all peoples through making the nation great.
This document provides a summary and discussion of the book of Numbers in the Bible. It discusses some of the key events and themes in the book, including:
1) The Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years after leaving Mount Sinai on their journey to the Promised Land.
2) God providing manna and quail to feed the Israelites, despite the immense logistical challenge of feeding 2 million people daily.
3) Challenges to Moses' leadership from Miriam, Aaron, Korah and others, and God's forceful shuttering of these rebellions to maintain order.
Jeremiah lived in Jerusalem from around 626 BC to 586 BC, a time of invasion and destruction by Babylon. He warned his people to repent and follow God's laws, but was mistreated for his message. God used the Babylonian exile to get the Jews to abandon false gods and idolatry, and to see that obedience to God was more important than rituals. This paved the way for God to eventually return the Jews to Jerusalem and bring future prosperity through a changed heart.
This document provides context about the book of Isaiah and the prophet Isaiah's ministry. It discusses the historical backdrop of Isaiah's time period and how God worked through dramatic events like defeating the Assyrian army to make himself known to the nations and challenge their views of competing gods. The overarching goal of God establishing Israel was to introduce the world to the one true God and bless all nations, but the Israelites' own disobedience made this difficult.
This document provides an introduction and overview of the biblical book of Judges. It discusses the time period and geographical location covered in the book. The book spans about 300 years from after Joshua's death until the time of King Saul. It describes a cycle in the book where the Israelites would sin, be oppressed by other nations, cry out to God, and then be delivered by judges God appointed. The document argues this shows God respected the Israelites' freedom of choice but let them experience the natural consequences of choosing to worship other gods instead of Him.
This document provides an overview and discussion of the book of Psalms in the Bible. It notes that the Psalms were written by different authors over a long period of time and contain varying and sometimes opposing descriptions of God. However, reading Psalms in their entirety often resolves apparent contradictions. The document argues that the Psalms show God wants an open and honest conversation about all aspects of human life and experience, both positive and negative. They demonstrate God is real and listens to real human struggles, questions, hurt, and more.
God reveals secrets of the future to give people understanding and confidence. Daniel received revelations from God about future kingdoms that would rule, helping Nebuchadnezzar understand his dream. Prophecies in Daniel have come true, showing God knows the future. Fulfilled prophecies act as mile markers, helping people recognize where they are in history and have trust that God is in control of what is to come.
The document provides background on the biblical book of 2 Kings and summarizes a story from 2 Kings chapter 1. The story involves King Ahaziah of Israel who is injured in a fall and sends men to consult the god Baal-zebub instead of God. God sends Elijah to intercept the men and tell Ahaziah he will die for not consulting the true God. Ahaziah sends armed troops to bring Elijah down, but God sends fire from heaven to consume the troops. This gets Ahaziah's attention about who the true God is.
A Guide to Young married Couples
-Zac Poonen
INDEX
1. A heavenly home on earth
2. Make three choices in your marriage
3. A marriage like a garden
4. The home – a sanctuary for God
CFC, Christian Fellowship Church, Christian Fellowship Center, Christian Fellowship Centre
A verse by verse commentary on Judges 2 dealing with the angel of the Lord at Bokim. God is angry with His people and they served the Lord as long as Joshua lived, but after he died they went away again.
Our little Church is using a Chronological Bible Reading Schedule by Skip Andrews. It can be found here: http://www.churchofchristduluthga.org/
Each Sunday a lesson is given from some of that week's reading. This lesson covers Aug 24-30
When you made the decision to marry your spouse, what were your expectations about how the family finances were going to be handled? Did you even have any? Marriage and money go hand in hand. When there is unity in handling money God’s way, it helps lead to unity in your marriage as well. Whether you are a newlywed or married for 50 years, in this class, you will learn what the Bible says about handling money God’s way and the importance of this in our marriages. Come and learn how to have unity in money and in your marriage.
If you enjoy this, please visit my Daily Dependence website for Daily Encouragement, Scriptures, and Inspirational Thoughts to help place your Dependence on God!
You can follow me at www.facebook.com/DailyDependence
1. The passage describes how sin separated humanity from communion with God, but that Jesus bridged the gulf through His merits.
2. It says Jesus is the appointed medium of communication between God and fallen humanity. Without Jesus, angels could not communicate with humans.
3. Jesus connects helpless humans to the source of God's infinite power. He makes spiritual communion possible once again.
While the paint is drying, read the Memory Verse together:
God said: “This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” Genesis 9:12-13
Closing Prayer: Thank you God for the beauty of rainbows and the promise they represent. Help us to remember your covenant of love and care, even in difficult times. Amen.
This document is a summary of a talk given to encourage young people to seek God's will in marriage and courtship. It discusses several Bible verses about pleasing God rather than oneself. It emphasizes finding what best pleases the Lord in all areas of life, including marriage. The speaker encourages letting God choose one's spouse rather than choosing for oneself. While love is important, fancy and emotions can lead to ruin if allowed to guide courtship before practical guidance. The goal is for the whole heart to belong to God.
Bible Study: What if your wrong about eternity?katch
This document provides a Bible study lesson on the relationship between God and man. It discusses how God created man to obey Him but man sinned by disobeying God's command. As a result, man is sinful and separated from God. However, the lesson also explains that the Bible provides the means for man to be saved from sin through having faith in Jesus Christ.
This document provides a summary of how God has guided his people throughout biblical history by pointing his finger. It discusses instances from the Old Testament where God's finger was pointed, such as at Adam and Eve after the fall, at Noah to build the ark, and at Abram to leave his family and follow God. The document then focuses on the story of Lot, who separated from Abram and settled in Sodom and Gomorrah, which were sinful cities. God later rescued Lot and his family from those cities. The document suggests God continues to point his finger to guide people today.
This document provides a 3-paragraph summary of the key ideas from a book about developing an unbeatable spirit of faith. It explains that no matter the difficulties one faces, God can turn the situation around through faith. It emphasizes believing God's word even when circumstances seem impossible. It encourages focusing on God's promises rather than one's own problems, and consistently speaking words of faith in line with scripture. The goal is to cultivate faith like Abraham's that calls things that are not as though they were and sees God's power at work.
This document is a magazine issue focused on faithfulness in the family. It contains several articles on topics related to the role of godly men in the family including an article titled "Dare to Be a Man of God" that recounts the biblical story of Gideon and lessons that can be learned from how God called and empowered him. The issue also includes articles on leading family worship through Bible reading and the importance of godly male role models.
Key yourself into God's covenant an be a high-flyer. When you operate by the covenant, life becomes easy and blessings transcends to generations after you. This is a great book that will open your eyes to the covenant of God contained in the scriptures (the bible).
Of all the questions you will ask yourself in life? ARE YOU A GOOD PERSON? Eric
The document discusses whether a person is "good enough" to go to Heaven by examining how well they have obeyed the Ten Commandments. It analyzes each commandment individually and argues that no one can say they have fully obeyed all of them. It then explains that the punishment for sin is eternal damnation in Hell but that God provided a way for forgiveness and salvation through Jesus Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection. It urges the reader to repent of their sins, trust in Jesus, and accept His gift of eternal life.
Fascination with god and all he has madeGLENN PEASE
GOD is fascinating and so is His creation, and even the works of man are fascinating, and the Bible says all of this fascination will be a part of our heavenly experience of wonder.
This document summarizes a sermon about the importance of submitting to God. It discusses how submission to God brings life and victory. It provides examples from the Bible of people who failed to submit to God and faced negative consequences, as well as examples of people who submitted fully to God and experienced success. The key message is that we must obey God and do his will in order to experience abundant life and victory over sin and Satan.
God tests Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac on a mountain. Abraham obeys God and is prepared to kill Isaac before an angel stops him. The document then discusses how this story is not a contradiction to the idea that God does not tempt people, as the word "tempt" can mean to test or to entice evil. It explores various perspectives on why God tests people, such as to strengthen their faith, keep them focused on obeying God rather than becoming satisfied with blessings, and to rely on God rather than earthly things. The testing is meant to benefit people in the end.
1. The document discusses how to get to heaven according to the Bible. It states that while some believe there are many paths, the Bible teaches there is only one - through believing in Jesus Christ.
2. It explains that all people are sinners due to the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden, and that even one sin makes someone imperfect and unable to enter the perfect place of heaven.
3. The only way to heaven is through believing that Jesus, God's son, died for people's sins and rose from the dead. By putting one's faith in Jesus, his righteousness is credited to the believer and they can receive the free gift of eternal life in heaven.
Ezekiel was a priest among the exiles taken to Babylon in 597 BC. He received visions around 592 BC, contemporary with Jeremiah and Daniel. Ezekiel and other prophets warned of Judah's destruction if they did not repent. God sent many prophets with the same message in hopes it would get through. Ezekiel performed dramatic acts to symbolize Judah's fate in an attempt to gain their attention. God did everything possible through warnings and signs to get Judah to repent so they could live, but they refused to listen.
Jeremiah wrote the book of Lamentations to mourn the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon in 586 BC. Lamentations is a collection of poems structured around the Hebrew alphabet that expresses Jeremiah's grief over the devastation he witnessed. Though God allowed and even raised up Babylon to punish Judah's sins, Jeremiah still feels compassion for the suffering people and hopes for restoration. The book illustrates the dilemma God faces in dealing with human evil and suffering.
1) Solomon had great wealth, wisdom, and power as king of Israel, but found it all meaningless when he looked back on his life.
2) In Ecclesiastes, Solomon analyzes his experiences with pleasure, work, wisdom, and wealth, and concludes it is all meaningless without God.
3) God gives meaning and purpose to life through His commandments of love, relationships, and finding fulfillment through other-centeredness rather than selfish pursuits.
Solomon wrote the book of Proverbs, which contains practical advice and wisdom for everyday life matters such as relationships, finances, and decision-making. Though written thousands of years ago, statistical data shows that adhering to the principles in Proverbs relates to greater wealth, satisfaction in marriage, and overall well-being. The document discusses how Proverbs provides guidance applicable to modern life situations and important life decisions. Examples given include warnings against debt and cosigning loans, as well as advice for choosing a spouse and maintaining a healthy marriage.
The document provides a summary and analysis of the book of Job from the Bible. It discusses how Job loses his wealth, property, and children due to a wager between God and Satan about Job's loyalty. Job's friends accuse him of sinning, but Job insists on his innocence and wants to confront God directly to understand his suffering. The document aims to unpack the book's examination of God's character and how he uses his power in relation to humanity.
The document provides an overview and analysis of the book of Esther from the Bible. It notes that while God is not explicitly mentioned, He was working behind the scenes to protect the Jewish people. It explains how Esther became queen through a beauty pageant and selection process that would not be considered ideal today. However, the document argues that God has always been willing to work within less than ideal human systems and circumstances to reach out to people and guide them towards His ideals over time. The heart of God depicted in Esther is of one who is loving and not aloof, intervening to care for His people no matter how far they have strayed.
This document provides a summary and analysis of the biblical book of Nehemiah. It discusses how Nehemiah and Ezra provided leadership to the Israelites as they returned from exile in Babylon. Both leaders took radical steps, such as breaking up families who intermarried with foreigners, in order to prevent the Israelites from repeating the sins that led to their exile. While painful, their interventions helped set the Israelites on a new path of obedience to God. The document argues that God sometimes uses tough love and leadership to turn people from sin and help them make a fresh start, though the process of fixing damage from sin is often messy.
The document summarizes a passage from 2 Chronicles that describes how King Hezekiah of Judah reestablished worship in the Temple after his father King Ahaz had abandoned it. When Hezekiah wanted to celebrate Passover, he decided to do it in the second month instead of the first month as prescribed by God's instructions. Surprisingly, God supported this change and blessed the people when they celebrated Passover at the wrong time. The document notes this seems inconsistent with God's strict rules and punishments for disobedience in the Old Testament. However, a passage from Isaiah suggests God was tired of meaningless rituals and wanted sincere worship instead of outward compliance to rules.
(1) The document provides an overview and summary of the biblical book of Ruth. (2) It discusses the time period and location of the story, which takes place in Bethlehem and Moab during the time of the Judges. (3) The story is about a Moabite woman named Ruth who follows her mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem after both of their husbands have died, and how Ruth finds protection and a new marriage through obeying God's laws on gleaning and redemption.
This document provides an overview and analysis of key themes in the book of Leviticus. It discusses how Leviticus deals with ceremonial law including sacrifices and holiness. While the laws seem difficult to attain, the document argues that God, through the work of Jesus, is the one who makes people holy, not their own works. The Sabbath rest points to how salvation is a gift of God's work, not human effort. Overall, the document seeks to explain the purpose and meaning of Leviticus' laws in light of Jesus' finished work of salvation.
The document provides an introduction and summary of the book of 2 Samuel, which describes the reign of King David over Israel after the death of Saul. It notes that historically David first ruled only the tribe of Judah for 7 years before becoming king over all the tribes of Israel for a total of 40 years, from around 1010 BC to 970 BC. The document then discusses several stories from 2 Samuel, particularly the account of Uzzah reaching out to steady the Ark of the Covenant and being struck dead, and analyzes the context and significance of this event.
This document provides a summary of the book of Exodus from the Bible. It discusses how the book tells the story of the Israelites' exit from Egypt where they had been enslaved. It highlights how God had prepared Moses throughout his life to lead the Israelites out of slavery. The document also discusses how God gifted certain individuals like Bezalel and Oholiab with skills to build the tabernacle, and how God continues to uniquely prepare people throughout history for specific purposes.
This document provides an introduction and summary of the book of 1 Kings. It discusses:
- The book covers the transition of power from King David to his son Solomon, and the division of the kingdom after Solomon's death.
- It introduces stories that raise questions about determining who and what to trust, such as prophets providing conflicting messages.
- The document uses these stories to encourage examining faith with evidence and understanding, rather than blind belief, by comparing other examples in the Bible.
This summary provides the key details from the document in 3 sentences:
The document provides background on the book of 1 Samuel and discusses God granting the Israelites' request to have a king even though it meant they would no longer see God as their ultimate king. It also summarizes the story of Hannah, who was unable to have children, and how God answered both her prayer and that of Peninnah, her rival wife, by giving Hannah a son and allowing Peninnah special time with their husband during trips to the temple.
1. FNG Friday, Jan 6, 2012 - Genesis
So here we are at the beginning of a new year, and the beginning of a new series. This
month we start our journey through the Bible, going through it book by book, asking the
question: what does this tell us about God? What can we learn about God in this book?
We proclaim that we are looking forward to spending an eternity with God, and since
eternity is a rather long time, it seems prudent to study the evidence we have been
provided with and see what exactly it is that we are signing up for.
We have spent quite a bit of time looking at various aspects of the big picture of the
Bible in the past programs, and I am sure that as we read through the Bible we will see
more pieces fitting into that big picture. It is certainly my hope that keeping that
framework in the back of our minds will help make the Bible more of a whole rather than
just a random collection of stories.
And so we begin in Genesis. In preparation for this evening I borrowed from the library a
Bible recorded on a set of CD’s so that I can just listen right through Genesis as I was
driving. When I was through, Kelley asked me what impression I came away with as to
what was the overarching theme in Genesis? I had two. The first one was that the
majority of the characters in Genesis would feel right at home on the Jerry Springer
show. But that is a reflection on the people of that day, and while it gives us great insight
into the circumstances in which God had to operate, it really does nothing to answer the
question: what can we learn about God from the book of Genesis? So tonight I’ll focus
on my second observation: God’s covenants.
Covenant is an interesting word. It has a contractual feel to it. It is a promise to do
something. Does anyone remember back in the day when computers were still a novelty
and we had the Atari’s and Commodore 64 where you had to type in a lot of the
programming yourself? There was a common and pivotal line in the programming which
was “If” “then”. “If” this action is performed or this result obtained “then” follow this course
of action. This is how we have come to view God’s covenants. “If” “then”. “If” you obey
my laws “then” you will be blessed, “If” you turn away from Me, “then” your life will
become miserable. And we have come to call these blessings and curses, and the Bible
is full of them. But the interesting part about God’s covenants in Genesis is that they are
2. unilateral. Anyone know what “unilateral” means? It means that something is: “relating
to, occurring on, or involving one side only” or to put it in legalese: “pertaining to a
contract in which obligation rests on only one party, as a binding promise to make a gift.”
I believe there is a reason for this. God is trying to communicate something to us. As we
looked at the big picture we have referred a number of times to the events in the first
part of Genesis chapter 3, which describes the fall of mankind, so I’m not going to spend
much time dwelling on it this evening. In essence, in eating the fruit, Adam and Eve were
saying to God: “we don’t trust You and we don’t need You”. The event was not so much
an act of disobedience, as it was a radical change in the relationship between Adam and
Eve and their Creator. They rejected the Lifegiver as a fraud, and whether intentional or
not, the consequence of this action was that Adam and Eve now felt more kinship to the
Serpent than to God in whose image they were made. They both made a stand against
God and they therefore now had a common enemy in God. And watch what God does.
In Genesis 3:8 God shows up in the cool of the day looking for Adam and Eve who are
now hiding in fear. The passage doesn’t tell us, but some believe that it was God’s habit
to meet with Adam and Eve in the cool of the day. So God, knowing full well what has
happened, shows up as usual to meet with Adam and Eve. And guess who is missing?!
Adam and Eve. So God says: “Where are you?” Would you hazard a guess as to what
tone of voice God used when He said where are you? Was it a “come out or else” kind of
a “where are you?” or more of a playing hide and seek with your kids kind of “where are
you?”. Reading words off a page it is difficult to know what kind of a tone to read into
someone else’s speech, but I will hazard a guess that it was the later, since Adam felt
comfortable enough to come out of hiding and confess his fear, rather than trying to dig a
deeper hole to hide in.
You see, right there immediately after the fall, I believe God was trying to communicate
something. In asking “where are you” God was not seeking information. He knew the
exact ZIP code of the bush Adam and Eve were hiding behind! What He was
communicating to Adam and Eve, and even to us today is: I have not changed, I am still
here wanting to be with you, to meet with you. There is a change that has taken place in
you - because you are the one missing from this meeting. But your problem is not with
Me. When Adam mentions their nakedness, God’s question is: “Who told you that you
were naked?” In other words, this change that you perceive, this nakedness that you feel
3. has nothing to do with me, something else has gotten in between us, something has
changed in you, because I am still the same. And just to drive home the point, after a lot
of finger pointing, God’s first words are to the Serpent and notice what He says in verse
15: “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and
hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Mankind will not be allied with
the Serpent having God as the common enemy. No, God puts enmity between mankind
and the Serpent, making us allies with God and Satan as the common enemy. This, my
friends is a powerful message: God’s attitude towards us does not change and anyone
who would come between us and God and destroy the trusting relationship between us -
God will consider them as the adversary. In fact, that is exactly what the name “Satan”
means - the adversary. And here is also God’s first unilateral promise. Kinda cryptic and
very short on the details, but there it is none the less: I will fix this. I will restore our
broken relationship.
And so God continues to come and communicate with mankind. He is looking for allies
who are still willing to side with Him. In the antedeluvian world where the thoughts of
men were always evil, He found Noah. Noah was willing to listen, build a boat and offer
survival to everyone. There was no test or background check to pass - all you had to do
to survive the flood was to get on the boat! But only Noah and his family chose to do so.
God came to Abram and said: “I’ll make you into a great nation, and through you all the
people of the world will be blessed.” No “if” “then” - simply come with Me on this great
adventure, and I’ll just do it! Oh, and yes, all this land that I will show you - I’ll just give
that to your descendants! Just because… And this same promise was then repeated to
Isaac and Jacob.
But both Kelley’s and mine personal favorite one is found in Genesis 28. In a Jerry
Springer like episode, Jacob stole the blessing of his brother Esau and was now on the
run with nothing but the clothes on his back. He finally stopped for the night and using a
stone as a pillow went to sleep under the stars. We pick up the story in verse 12: “He
had a dream in which he saw a stairway resting on the earth, with its top reaching to
heaven, and the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. There above it
stood the LORD, and he said: “I am the LORD, the God of your father Abraham and the
God of Isaac. I will give you and your descendants the land on which you are lying. Your
4. descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to
the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you
and your offspring. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will
bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised
you.” (Genesis 28:12-15)
Jacob is just trying to save his own skin and he’s catching a few z’s during his flight. He
has neither talked to God nor asked for His help. But God just shows up and makes all
these wonderful promises. I will make you into a huge nation, all the peoples on the
earth will be blessed through you, I will watch over you and I will bring you back here. I
just will - this is My unilateral covenant with you. But here’s the funny part - it is Jacob
who now engages in the “if” “then” kind of bargaining! It’s Jacob! “If God will be with me
and will watch over me on this journey I am taking and will give me food to eat and
clothes to wear so that I return safely to my father’s household, then the LORD will be
my God and this stone that I have set up as a pillar will be God’s house, and of all that
you give me I will give you a tenth.” (Genesis 28:20-22). I mean, what is God supposed
to do with that? He’s already promised to do all these things for Jacob regardless of
what Jacob did with it! But since Jacob feels the need to set some mutual terms here,
God seems to just roll with it.
Of course, as we have already seen, and will no doubt see a lot more of in the coming
year, people can promise you all kinds of wonderful things. To listen to them, man, it’s
like milk and honey are practically flowing out of their mouth. So you vote for them,
and….. nothing really happens. Or at least nothing that resembles the promised utopia.
But in Genesis 35 we see that God did indeed keep His covenant and Jacob, now a
wealthy man with a large family is reconciled with Esau and safely returns to Bethel, the
place where God made the original covenant with him.
So what does the book of Genesis tell us about God? This fascinating book that spans
well over 2000 years of history tells us so much about God that we will barely scratch the
surface tonight and tomorrow. But I believe that the primary message is that God is still
looking to be a part of our lives. He is looking to be our parent, our friend. When our
attitude toward Him changed, He did not change, He still wanted to hang out with us.
Our problem is not with God. And since we believed Satan’s lie that God cannot be
5. trusted, God set out to win our trust once again by voluntarily making promises,
unilateral covenants that bound Him to deliver on His promises and prove to us His
trustworthiness. Covenants that could not only tangibly prove to us His trustworthiness,
but would also be a showcase of the sheer generosity of our God. The individuals in
Genesis didn’t have to do something or behave in a certain way to get their gifts. Like I
said - many of them were ripe for an appearance on the Jerry Springer show! But all
they had to do was to open their hand and receive God’s generous gifts. And as a result
of their interactions with God, we see how their trust and relationship with God
deepened. We see the changes in their lives that came from their continued interactions
with God, as over time they began acting in better and more mature ways. But ultimately,
what the book of Genesis shows us, is that God really is the same yesterday, today and
throughout eternity, and He is here to stay, right by our side.