But when the right time came, the time God decided on. He sent His Son born of a woman. Born as a Jew. To buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law so that He could adopt us as His very own.
Every December millions of people around the world watch the 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life. Although it wasn't a hit when it debuted, it has become a Christmas classic. In a Time magazine essay, Roger Rosenblatt pondered the film's continuing appeal. He concluded that the story is really about friendship. That helps explain why we often still feel choked up as we watch George Bailey's family and friends rally around him in his time of greatest need. Rosenblatt said, "Just when George thinks he's alone in the world, the world shows up to declare its love for him." This is the message of Christmas that opens the door our own Wonderful Life - the joy of knowing Christ and living in His love. Have you received the gift of eternal life that Jesus offers to you? A wonderful life is yours when you know the Christ of Christmas!
Pastor John
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
This verse from Isaiah is one of the most-often quoted messianic prophecies. It is a prophecy that speaks of Christ's purpose and position. The prophet says, that the government shall be upon his shoulder. The Hebrew word for government here is misrah, also meaning empire. The empire - the kingdom - shall rest upon Him. This is comforting to know that the One in charge has all the righteous attributes of God and the princely position and power to carry out the business of government. This is a rare thing in the world today. Unlike any other governmental leaders, we have a leader that we can worship - One we love to worship. "Come Let Us Worship the King!
Pastor John
This verse from Isaiah is one of the most-often quoted messianic prophecies. It is a prophecy that speaks of Christ's purpose and position. The prophet says, that the government shall be upon his shoulder. The Hebrew word for government here is misrah, also meaning empire. The empire - the kingdom - shall rest upon Him. This is comforting to know that the One in charge has all the righteous attributes of God and the princely position and power to carry out the business of government. This is a rare thing in the world today. Unlike any other governmental leaders, we have a leader that we can worship - One we love to worship. "Come Let Us Worship the King!
Pastor John
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Romans 8:16
The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
Today begins the Christmas Advent, the season for celebrating our Heavenly Father's greatest gift to us - Jesus Christ. We celebrate Christ's birth because it means so many wonderful things to every believer. Today, I will begin the Christmas sermon series All in the Family. I hope to bring relevance to what scripture says about the Family of God and the important part each of us plays in it. From the very beginning, God placed emphasis on the design of His family. You and I - no matter where we're from, what we've done, how obedient we've been - we have a family. We belong. The same God who designed the salvation plan through the Babe in the manger has a design that involves you.
Pastor John
Today begins the Christmas Advent, the season for celebrating our Heavenly Father's greatest gift to us - Jesus Christ. We celebrate Christ's birth because it means so many wonderful things to every believer. Today, I will begin the Christmas sermon series All in the Family. I hope to bring relevance to what scripture says about the Family of God and the important part each of us plays in it. From the very beginning, God placed emphasis on the design of His family. You and I - no matter where we're from, what we've done, how obedient we've been - we have a family. We belong. The same God who designed the salvation plan through the Babe in the manger has a design that involves you.
Pastor John
Luke 1:37
For with God nothing shall be impossible.
The Gospel of Luke is the most complete telling of the story of Jesus. His birth, childhood, baptism and chronology are all covered in the first four chapters of the book. Luke, as a physician (or sort of family doctor), writes with compassion and warmth about the Lord's life. You will notice that he begins the Gospel with Jesus' family ties, starting with the story of the Lord's cousin, John the Baptist, and his mother and father. John the Baptist played a key role in the early years of Jesus' life. He was the one who announced that prophecy had been fulfilled and the Messiah had come. The world at that time needed a miracle. Certainly, many people were wondering about when or if Messiah would come. Well, He arrived in a most wondrous way - miraculously! God proved to humankind that His Son would come in His time and His way. What seemed impossible - the Virgin Birth, angels from Heaven, a new star in the night sky - all paid tribute to the amazing arrival of God's greatest promise. Pastor John
The Gospel of Luke is the most complete telling of the story of Jesus. His birth, childhood, baptism and chronology are all covered in the first four chapters of the book. Luke, as a physician (or sort of family doctor), writes with compassion and warmth about the Lord's life. You will notice that he begins the Gospel with Jesus' family ties, starting with the story of the Lord's cousin, John the Baptist, and his mother and father. John the Baptist played a key role in the early years of Jesus' life. He was the one who announced that prophecy had been fulfilled and the Messiah had come. The world at that time needed a miracle. Certainly, many people were wondering about when or if Messiah would come. Well, He arrived in a most wondrous way - miraculously! God proved to humankind that His Son would come in His time and His way. What seemed impossible - the Virgin Birth, angels from Heaven, a new star in the night sky - all paid tribute to the amazing arrival of God's greatest promise. Pastor John
Monday, December 2, 2013
Psalm 100:4
Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him and bless his name.
It would be awesome if everyone who came to church would do so as the psalmist instructs us to in this scripture. He is saying that upon arrival on church property we are to express our thankfulness, and we are to remain in that state until we enter the church building. Inside the courts (the foyer/lobby in our case) we are to begin our praise. Isn't that a novel idea? Can you imagine breaking out in praise as you enter the doors of the church? That's what the psalmist is saying to do. When we praise, it is in addition to giving thanks that starts when we first arrive. Then, note that the psalmist tells us again to be thankful and to bless God's name. Do remember to lead your families in giving thanks to Him from whom all blessings flow.
Pastor John
It would be awesome if everyone who came to church would do so as the psalmist instructs us to in this scripture. He is saying that upon arrival on church property we are to express our thankfulness, and we are to remain in that state until we enter the church building. Inside the courts (the foyer/lobby in our case) we are to begin our praise. Isn't that a novel idea? Can you imagine breaking out in praise as you enter the doors of the church? That's what the psalmist is saying to do. When we praise, it is in addition to giving thanks that starts when we first arrive. Then, note that the psalmist tells us again to be thankful and to bless God's name. Do remember to lead your families in giving thanks to Him from whom all blessings flow.
Pastor John
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Romans 5:8
BUT GOD commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
I love every verse of scripture that begins with the words BUT GOD. There is always a needful truth that follows those two words. This verse, in particular, speaks the loudest to me. I was a sinner, but God loved me anyway. I deserved nothing, but God gave His best for me. Satan thought he had me, But God rescued me. Sin had me bound, but God set me free. I was lost, but God sought me out. I was destined for hell, but God changed my destiny. I was hopeless, but God gave me hope. All these things and much more are implied in this great verse from Romans. Always remember: you may be facing many trials and issued of life, but God has a counter-strength to defeat anything you could encounter. Pastor John
I love every verse of scripture that begins with the words BUT GOD. There is always a needful truth that follows those two words. This verse, in particular, speaks the loudest to me. I was a sinner, but God loved me anyway. I deserved nothing, but God gave His best for me. Satan thought he had me, But God rescued me. Sin had me bound, but God set me free. I was lost, but God sought me out. I was destined for hell, but God changed my destiny. I was hopeless, but God gave me hope. All these things and much more are implied in this great verse from Romans. Always remember: you may be facing many trials and issued of life, but God has a counter-strength to defeat anything you could encounter. Pastor John
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Exodus 23:19a
As you reap each of your crops, bring me the choicest sample of the first day's harvest; it shall be offered to the Lord your God....
Since the early days of Israel's history God had a plan for His people to celebrate. They celebrated Passover to commemorate their deliverance from death and Egyptian captivity. They celebrate with feasts to remember God's blessings and His promises to them. Feasts often incorporate a remembrance of the harvest. God's people would bring their very best to the Temple to give thanks for His provision. We too, are thankful in this season of the year for all that God has given to us. We thank Him for the harvests of the past and the anticipated harvests we will reap in the future. Let us lift our highest praise and worship to our God who blesses us daily with His benefits.
Pastor John
Since the early days of Israel's history God had a plan for His people to celebrate. They celebrated Passover to commemorate their deliverance from death and Egyptian captivity. They celebrate with feasts to remember God's blessings and His promises to them. Feasts often incorporate a remembrance of the harvest. God's people would bring their very best to the Temple to give thanks for His provision. We too, are thankful in this season of the year for all that God has given to us. We thank Him for the harvests of the past and the anticipated harvests we will reap in the future. Let us lift our highest praise and worship to our God who blesses us daily with His benefits.
Pastor John
Ephesians 4:1-3
I...beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness, and meekness, with long suffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
These verses are from the READ initiative assignment last week. The Greek word for endeavoring in verse 3 is defined as being earnest or diligent. What we endeavor to do usually reveals our priorities or our purpose. Our endeavor as Christians should be to keep the unity of the Spirit as we work together as the Body of Christ. As we read all of Ephesians 4, we see that this unity actually makes individuals aware of their personal calling. According to verse 12 it is for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying (or building up) of the body of Christ. Let us all live our lives with this endeavor so that it will encourage everyone, and we will see our church grow in Christ as we grow closer to one another.
Pastor John
These verses are from the READ initiative assignment last week. The Greek word for endeavoring in verse 3 is defined as being earnest or diligent. What we endeavor to do usually reveals our priorities or our purpose. Our endeavor as Christians should be to keep the unity of the Spirit as we work together as the Body of Christ. As we read all of Ephesians 4, we see that this unity actually makes individuals aware of their personal calling. According to verse 12 it is for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying (or building up) of the body of Christ. Let us all live our lives with this endeavor so that it will encourage everyone, and we will see our church grow in Christ as we grow closer to one another.
Pastor John
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Mark 3:35
For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.
To do God's will is to enter I everlasting relationship with Christ. To be in a relationship with Jesus is to be part of the eternal family which every other believer is part. We are blood relatives due to the blood of Jesus that has washed away our sins. According to Romans 8:17, we have become heirs and joint-heirs with Christ. We are family. It's awesome to have this knowledge, but with this knowledge comes responsibility - responsibility to bring those dearest to us into God's family as well. This begins in our homes. One of the greatest problems in our nation today is the shirking of family responsibility. Parents have loosened godly standards in the home and abandoned righteous responsibility. Petty jealousies tear family apart. This is devastating to our Church, society and nation. I hope this stirs something inside of you today, so you can say, like Joshua, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Pastor John
To do God's will is to enter I everlasting relationship with Christ. To be in a relationship with Jesus is to be part of the eternal family which every other believer is part. We are blood relatives due to the blood of Jesus that has washed away our sins. According to Romans 8:17, we have become heirs and joint-heirs with Christ. We are family. It's awesome to have this knowledge, but with this knowledge comes responsibility - responsibility to bring those dearest to us into God's family as well. This begins in our homes. One of the greatest problems in our nation today is the shirking of family responsibility. Parents have loosened godly standards in the home and abandoned righteous responsibility. Petty jealousies tear family apart. This is devastating to our Church, society and nation. I hope this stirs something inside of you today, so you can say, like Joshua, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.
Pastor John
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: Old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.
This verse is one of the most often quoted of the Apostle Paul's writings. However, this verses that follow (v 18-21) paint us the greater picture - the scene of reconciliation. Christ became sin for us so that we might be made righteous by His work. All of the sins of our past are forgiven and we are made clean by His blood when we call on Him and repent. Satan doesn't want anyone to be forgiven of their sins, as they are a result of his work. His goal is to kill your body, steal your soul, and rob you of every good thing in the process. To be forgiven lifts us up to where Christ is Lord, and by His grace we miraculously become like Him. To live our lives without forgiving others of their wrongs makes us sink down to Satan's level. Which level do you choose: the old level under Satan, or Christ's level, where all things are new? Pastor John
This verse is one of the most often quoted of the Apostle Paul's writings. However, this verses that follow (v 18-21) paint us the greater picture - the scene of reconciliation. Christ became sin for us so that we might be made righteous by His work. All of the sins of our past are forgiven and we are made clean by His blood when we call on Him and repent. Satan doesn't want anyone to be forgiven of their sins, as they are a result of his work. His goal is to kill your body, steal your soul, and rob you of every good thing in the process. To be forgiven lifts us up to where Christ is Lord, and by His grace we miraculously become like Him. To live our lives without forgiving others of their wrongs makes us sink down to Satan's level. Which level do you choose: the old level under Satan, or Christ's level, where all things are new? Pastor John
Hebrews 8:6
But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.
When Christ came he brought a new covenant - a change for the better. Change can be good. God has been an instigator of change since before time began. I love change when it is for the better. There is one fact concerning change that is most important, and it must not be overlooked. An advocate for change must see the purpose of the change in the big picture. God saw the necessity for change even before the foundation of the world. He knew that we would sin, and He knew that we would need a sinless advocate to redeem us from our sin. Thus, Jesus came to conquer death, hell and the grave, providing us with a better covenant that changed our lives. This was the greatest of changes for better. Pastor John
When Christ came he brought a new covenant - a change for the better. Change can be good. God has been an instigator of change since before time began. I love change when it is for the better. There is one fact concerning change that is most important, and it must not be overlooked. An advocate for change must see the purpose of the change in the big picture. God saw the necessity for change even before the foundation of the world. He knew that we would sin, and He knew that we would need a sinless advocate to redeem us from our sin. Thus, Jesus came to conquer death, hell and the grave, providing us with a better covenant that changed our lives. This was the greatest of changes for better. Pastor John
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Colossians 3:14
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
We like to talk about abundant life. Many of us think that abundant life has to do with "having" more than "giving." The focus is more on the "abundant" and less on the "life" Well, the actual meaning of the word perfectness here in Colossians 3 is "developing and living a life of mature godliness." Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:48, "Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." This perfectness binds us to God, and that, in turn, causes us to be in His favor, His anointing and His most gracious love. His abundance is His love to us which give us the greatest fulfillment in life. In other words, seek life in Christ and the abundance will follow.
Pastor John
We like to talk about abundant life. Many of us think that abundant life has to do with "having" more than "giving." The focus is more on the "abundant" and less on the "life" Well, the actual meaning of the word perfectness here in Colossians 3 is "developing and living a life of mature godliness." Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:48, "Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." This perfectness binds us to God, and that, in turn, causes us to be in His favor, His anointing and His most gracious love. His abundance is His love to us which give us the greatest fulfillment in life. In other words, seek life in Christ and the abundance will follow.
Pastor John
Acts 2:37
Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, men and brethren, what shall we do?
This verse is in response to Peter's message to the multitude on the Day of Pentecost. What shall we do? Peter responds with instruction and a promise: Repent and be baptized...for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children. (Acts 2:38-39). At salvation, we graduated from death to life, from being a sinner to being born again. Jesus promises us the gift of His Spirit to comfort, convict and compel us to greatness in ministry. When we are baptized in that Spirit we graduate from the natural to he supernatural. We no longer walk only in our own ability; we walk in the power of the Holy Spirit with God's anointing to do things we could never do before.
Pastor John
This verse is in response to Peter's message to the multitude on the Day of Pentecost. What shall we do? Peter responds with instruction and a promise: Repent and be baptized...for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children. (Acts 2:38-39). At salvation, we graduated from death to life, from being a sinner to being born again. Jesus promises us the gift of His Spirit to comfort, convict and compel us to greatness in ministry. When we are baptized in that Spirit we graduate from the natural to he supernatural. We no longer walk only in our own ability; we walk in the power of the Holy Spirit with God's anointing to do things we could never do before.
Pastor John
Geneisis 22:18
And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.
God's covenant with Abraham here had a far-reaching effect on the world - an effect still felt today. We call Abraham "Father Abraham" not only because he is first among the patriarchs, but also because of the fatherly character he portrays in the Bible. From his life we see what God desires for every father, a desire to be a real man of God. Abraham is obedient and willing to sacrifice his most prized possession to prove his Love for God. God is first in his life. Abraham is God's example of what fathers are supposed to be. Like Abraham, if we place God as priority in our lives, and keep open lines of communication with Him through prayer, there is no limit to how much of a difference we can make in the world. As Abraham was, let us strive to be men after God's own heart. Pastor John
God's covenant with Abraham here had a far-reaching effect on the world - an effect still felt today. We call Abraham "Father Abraham" not only because he is first among the patriarchs, but also because of the fatherly character he portrays in the Bible. From his life we see what God desires for every father, a desire to be a real man of God. Abraham is obedient and willing to sacrifice his most prized possession to prove his Love for God. God is first in his life. Abraham is God's example of what fathers are supposed to be. Like Abraham, if we place God as priority in our lives, and keep open lines of communication with Him through prayer, there is no limit to how much of a difference we can make in the world. As Abraham was, let us strive to be men after God's own heart. Pastor John
Nehemiah 4:6b
...For the people had a mind to work.
Getting something productive accomplished requires a certain mind-set. The right mind-set means having determination to finish what you start out to do with the right mental attitude. Once Nehemiah had convinced the people in Jerusalem that the God of Israel and kin Artaxerxes had commissioned the work on the city's walls to be completed, they strengthened their hands for this good work. Today we have been commissioned by the King of kings to do His work. His is the best work. Let us strive to have that right mind-set like those in Nehemiah's day. let us have a mind to work.
Pastor John
Getting something productive accomplished requires a certain mind-set. The right mind-set means having determination to finish what you start out to do with the right mental attitude. Once Nehemiah had convinced the people in Jerusalem that the God of Israel and kin Artaxerxes had commissioned the work on the city's walls to be completed, they strengthened their hands for this good work. Today we have been commissioned by the King of kings to do His work. His is the best work. Let us strive to have that right mind-set like those in Nehemiah's day. let us have a mind to work.
Pastor John
1 peter 5:8
Be sober, Be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.
The word sober here means watchful. In our walk with God we need to be alert and aware of Satan's tactics. You can't just ignore the enemy. We learn in Nehemiah 4 that Nehemiah set up watches for the enemy while the workers made progress on Jerusalem's walls. This infuriated his adversaries because the work went on, and all plans to foil the construction failed. We can see, therefore, that the words of 1 Peter 5:8 are wise advice. Be sober. Be watchful. Satan is ever lurking in the darkness, but God is with you in your work and no weapon formed against you will prosper. My prayer is that anyone here today who is facing adverse issues will leave here relieved of the rubble in his or her life.
Pastor John
The word sober here means watchful. In our walk with God we need to be alert and aware of Satan's tactics. You can't just ignore the enemy. We learn in Nehemiah 4 that Nehemiah set up watches for the enemy while the workers made progress on Jerusalem's walls. This infuriated his adversaries because the work went on, and all plans to foil the construction failed. We can see, therefore, that the words of 1 Peter 5:8 are wise advice. Be sober. Be watchful. Satan is ever lurking in the darkness, but God is with you in your work and no weapon formed against you will prosper. My prayer is that anyone here today who is facing adverse issues will leave here relieved of the rubble in his or her life.
Pastor John
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
1 John 2:1
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the father, Jesus Christ, the righteous.
What greater advocacy could be portrayed than that which is made available to sinning believers through Jesus? As a result of His sacrifice, Jesus is able to communicate with His Father on our behalf and restore us into proper fellowship. Without our advocate Jesus in His place of intercession, our sins would separate us from the Father. Jesus, in His position of mediator, reveals the greatest picture of our need for forgiveness. In turn, we too, as we strive to be like Him, must forgive others who have inflicted wrongdoing and hurt on us. This truth is brought to greater light in Matthew 6:14-15: For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Unforgiveness can indeed be "rubble" that hinders our Christian progress. Pastor John
What greater advocacy could be portrayed than that which is made available to sinning believers through Jesus? As a result of His sacrifice, Jesus is able to communicate with His Father on our behalf and restore us into proper fellowship. Without our advocate Jesus in His place of intercession, our sins would separate us from the Father. Jesus, in His position of mediator, reveals the greatest picture of our need for forgiveness. In turn, we too, as we strive to be like Him, must forgive others who have inflicted wrongdoing and hurt on us. This truth is brought to greater light in Matthew 6:14-15: For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Unforgiveness can indeed be "rubble" that hinders our Christian progress. Pastor John
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Romans 12:3
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
General Dwight D. Eisenhower once rebuked one of his generals for referring to a soldier as "just a private." He reminded him that the Army could function better without its generals than it could without its food soldiers. "If this war is won," he said, "it will be won by privates." In the same way, the common and ordinary Christians are the backbone of the Church. God's Church has great evangelists, super congregations led by dynamic ministers, and wealthy brethren who are able to finance great works, but if the work of the Lord is to be done - if the gospel is to be taken to the lost - it will be the "ordinary" Christian, made extraordinary by the Holy Spirit, who will do it.
Pastor John
General Dwight D. Eisenhower once rebuked one of his generals for referring to a soldier as "just a private." He reminded him that the Army could function better without its generals than it could without its food soldiers. "If this war is won," he said, "it will be won by privates." In the same way, the common and ordinary Christians are the backbone of the Church. God's Church has great evangelists, super congregations led by dynamic ministers, and wealthy brethren who are able to finance great works, but if the work of the Lord is to be done - if the gospel is to be taken to the lost - it will be the "ordinary" Christian, made extraordinary by the Holy Spirit, who will do it.
Pastor John
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Galatians 5:1a
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free.
As we celebrate Independence Day this past week, I hope we thought about the personal freedoms that being Americans gives us. However, one of the myths circulating today is that Christianity stifles personal freedom. Even though scripture speaks of the liberty that Christ offers, some people resist Christianity as an obstacle to freedom. These people base their feelings on the problem of legalism in the church (a list of "dos and don'ts" rather than a relationship of love and grace) and their own desire for pure autonomy (the right to do whatever they want with no accountability). Both of these ideas are wrong. True Christian freedom is Christ-like freedom. Christ based His behavior on what His Father wanted Him to do (John 8:29). His freedom has no hint of legalism, but is centered around the absolute standards of God the Father. Let's enjoy our freedom as Americans and Christians, taking inspiration from the most liberated being who ever lived, Jesus Christ!
Sharon Armstrong
As we celebrate Independence Day this past week, I hope we thought about the personal freedoms that being Americans gives us. However, one of the myths circulating today is that Christianity stifles personal freedom. Even though scripture speaks of the liberty that Christ offers, some people resist Christianity as an obstacle to freedom. These people base their feelings on the problem of legalism in the church (a list of "dos and don'ts" rather than a relationship of love and grace) and their own desire for pure autonomy (the right to do whatever they want with no accountability). Both of these ideas are wrong. True Christian freedom is Christ-like freedom. Christ based His behavior on what His Father wanted Him to do (John 8:29). His freedom has no hint of legalism, but is centered around the absolute standards of God the Father. Let's enjoy our freedom as Americans and Christians, taking inspiration from the most liberated being who ever lived, Jesus Christ!
Sharon Armstrong
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Acts 11:16
Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
These are the words of Peter as he addresses the Gentiles who gathered at Cornelius' house. They had come to see Peter and receive whatever God had for them. At this point, Peter is led by God to take on a huge task - ministry to the Gentiles. Peter knows this is going to be quite a challenge, but God is going to work all of it out in a most timely fashion. In verse 16 Peter says, Then I remembered the word of the Lord. Peter had been wondering what he would say to these people, then the Holy Spirit reminded him what Jesus had said in Acts 1:5. Already, the apostles were ministering powerfully by way of the Holy Spirit's guidance. This was the fulfillment of John 14:26. when Jesus said, The Holy Ghost....shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have spoken unto you. This is why we need the Holy Spirit today. There is much to remember to be effective in the harvest of these last days.
Pastor John
These are the words of Peter as he addresses the Gentiles who gathered at Cornelius' house. They had come to see Peter and receive whatever God had for them. At this point, Peter is led by God to take on a huge task - ministry to the Gentiles. Peter knows this is going to be quite a challenge, but God is going to work all of it out in a most timely fashion. In verse 16 Peter says, Then I remembered the word of the Lord. Peter had been wondering what he would say to these people, then the Holy Spirit reminded him what Jesus had said in Acts 1:5. Already, the apostles were ministering powerfully by way of the Holy Spirit's guidance. This was the fulfillment of John 14:26. when Jesus said, The Holy Ghost....shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have spoken unto you. This is why we need the Holy Spirit today. There is much to remember to be effective in the harvest of these last days.
Pastor John
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
2 Timothy 1:5
When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; I am persuaded that in thee also.
As the Apostle Paul addresses Timothy in this second letter to him, he makes honorable mention of Timothy's grandmother and mother. Paul tells Timothy that his confidence in him is based upon the massive impact these godly women had on the younger man's life. Later in verse 13, Paul give Timothy some good advice: Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. Paul is telling Timothy to "hang in there" through his life experiences. What Timothy has learned from his mother and her mother has brought him to learn from Paul. This leads to Paul's advice in 2:2: And the things that thou hast heard of me among the witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. From these verses I conclude that godly knowledge is best acquired when it begins at home. God bless all of our mothers. Pastor John
As the Apostle Paul addresses Timothy in this second letter to him, he makes honorable mention of Timothy's grandmother and mother. Paul tells Timothy that his confidence in him is based upon the massive impact these godly women had on the younger man's life. Later in verse 13, Paul give Timothy some good advice: Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. Paul is telling Timothy to "hang in there" through his life experiences. What Timothy has learned from his mother and her mother has brought him to learn from Paul. This leads to Paul's advice in 2:2: And the things that thou hast heard of me among the witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. From these verses I conclude that godly knowledge is best acquired when it begins at home. God bless all of our mothers. Pastor John
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Luke 15:10
Likewise, I say unto you there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.
Have you ever lost anything of great value? Remember the relief and joy you experienced when you found it? God has placed great value on every person, everywhere, since time began. He considers each one of us His prized possession. We know that losing someone that you love is grievous. Think how God feels about His lost children - those whom He has adopted by the blood of His only begotten Son. Luke 15 echoes God's love and joy when just one of His sons or daughters comes home. Heaven throws a celebration and the angels rejoice! The Father gifts His returning child with acceptance, forgiveness and blessing. This alone should be enough incentive for every sinner to come to God. Pastor John
Have you ever lost anything of great value? Remember the relief and joy you experienced when you found it? God has placed great value on every person, everywhere, since time began. He considers each one of us His prized possession. We know that losing someone that you love is grievous. Think how God feels about His lost children - those whom He has adopted by the blood of His only begotten Son. Luke 15 echoes God's love and joy when just one of His sons or daughters comes home. Heaven throws a celebration and the angels rejoice! The Father gifts His returning child with acceptance, forgiveness and blessing. This alone should be enough incentive for every sinner to come to God. Pastor John
Luke 8:10b
Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
The kingdom of God, that Jesus refers to here is not some future realm where the saints all reign in perfection. Jesus is speaking of the here and now - the existing body of believers of which Christ is the head. It's the place where believers are subject to Him and His word right now. The followers of Christ were not totally wrong in thinking that He had come to set up His kingdom on earth; it's just that heir timing was off. Jesus was saying to them that the world did not understand Him or His teachings. The world did not know who he was or why He was here. He was telling them that simply by knowing Him, they could taste heaven in the now. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. Jesus said so! It will be a perfect place where all believers will one day assemble to reign with Jesus for eternity. But, isn't it good to know that we have a bit of Heaven available to us while we live here?
Pastor John
The kingdom of God, that Jesus refers to here is not some future realm where the saints all reign in perfection. Jesus is speaking of the here and now - the existing body of believers of which Christ is the head. It's the place where believers are subject to Him and His word right now. The followers of Christ were not totally wrong in thinking that He had come to set up His kingdom on earth; it's just that heir timing was off. Jesus was saying to them that the world did not understand Him or His teachings. The world did not know who he was or why He was here. He was telling them that simply by knowing Him, they could taste heaven in the now. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. Jesus said so! It will be a perfect place where all believers will one day assemble to reign with Jesus for eternity. But, isn't it good to know that we have a bit of Heaven available to us while we live here?
Pastor John
Luke 14:26
Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far more than he does his own father, mother, wife, children, brothers or sisters - yes, more than his own life - otherwise he cannot be my disciple.
The love that God has for us is incomparable with any other love. If we use God's love as a gauge, earthly love seems insufficient - incapable of measuring up. It seems it's impossible for us to love at God's level. That is why God's grace is so precious. Through God's grace, our love is magnified. If we love God first, our love for others actually increases by divine amplification. Through grace, our love measures. up.
Pastor John
The love that God has for us is incomparable with any other love. If we use God's love as a gauge, earthly love seems insufficient - incapable of measuring up. It seems it's impossible for us to love at God's level. That is why God's grace is so precious. Through God's grace, our love is magnified. If we love God first, our love for others actually increases by divine amplification. Through grace, our love measures. up.
Pastor John
Romans 1:8
First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
This verse speaks of the spiritual integrity of those Christians in Rome. Paul thanks God for their faithfulness, Spiritual integrity should be the goal of every Christian. What is spiritual integrity? It is having the confidence of others that you will be strong in the Lord, faithful in His work, obedient to His call, and fruitful in your Spirit-led endeavors. Dependability is an important character trait, and it is a big part of spiritual integrity. In Paul's day, all of Christendom was aware of the Roman Christians' faith and devotion. As your pastor it's good to know that I can count on you, your prayers and your faithfulness. I encourage you to continue in these things.
Pasto John
This verse speaks of the spiritual integrity of those Christians in Rome. Paul thanks God for their faithfulness, Spiritual integrity should be the goal of every Christian. What is spiritual integrity? It is having the confidence of others that you will be strong in the Lord, faithful in His work, obedient to His call, and fruitful in your Spirit-led endeavors. Dependability is an important character trait, and it is a big part of spiritual integrity. In Paul's day, all of Christendom was aware of the Roman Christians' faith and devotion. As your pastor it's good to know that I can count on you, your prayers and your faithfulness. I encourage you to continue in these things.
Pasto John
Monday, April 8, 2013
Luke 12:43
Blessed is that servant, whom His Lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
Are you busy enought for God to use you? God never goes to the lazy or the idle when He needs people for His Service. When He has work to be done, He goes to those who are at work. When God wants a great servant, He calls a busy person. Think about the great people of the bible who were busy when the Lord called:
Moses was busy tending his flock at Horeb.
Gideon was busy threshing wheat by the wine press.
Saul was busy searching for his father's lost sheep.
Elisha was busy plowing with 12 yoke of oxen.
Nehemiah was busy serving as the king's cupbearer.
James and John werre busy mending their fishing nets.
Matthew was busy collecting taxes.
Saul of Tarsus was busy persecuting the followers of Jesus.
Are you busy enough for God to use you? Pastor John
Are you busy enought for God to use you? God never goes to the lazy or the idle when He needs people for His Service. When He has work to be done, He goes to those who are at work. When God wants a great servant, He calls a busy person. Think about the great people of the bible who were busy when the Lord called:
Moses was busy tending his flock at Horeb.
Gideon was busy threshing wheat by the wine press.
Saul was busy searching for his father's lost sheep.
Elisha was busy plowing with 12 yoke of oxen.
Nehemiah was busy serving as the king's cupbearer.
James and John werre busy mending their fishing nets.
Matthew was busy collecting taxes.
Saul of Tarsus was busy persecuting the followers of Jesus.
Are you busy enough for God to use you? Pastor John
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Luke 24:5b, 6a
Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here. But is RISEN!
I am thankful that Easter has come! Crucifixion, death and burial are now behind Him, and Jesus is alive! Resurrection has come! Now victory, power, cleansing and life rule the day. No longer will the Pharisees accost the Lord. No longer will the Romans mock Him. No longer will satan tempt Him. Christ has defeated death, hell and the grave, so that now those who believe in Him have hope of overcoming those things as well. Today we can celebrate our living Savior who fulfilled His purpose to save us from all the dark powers that war against us. We are free in Christ Jesus! I hope and pray you are free indeed! Pastor John
I am thankful that Easter has come! Crucifixion, death and burial are now behind Him, and Jesus is alive! Resurrection has come! Now victory, power, cleansing and life rule the day. No longer will the Pharisees accost the Lord. No longer will the Romans mock Him. No longer will satan tempt Him. Christ has defeated death, hell and the grave, so that now those who believe in Him have hope of overcoming those things as well. Today we can celebrate our living Savior who fulfilled His purpose to save us from all the dark powers that war against us. We are free in Christ Jesus! I hope and pray you are free indeed! Pastor John
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Psalm 107:8
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men.
How important is it that we praise the Lord? In Psalm 107 there are four identical verses: 8,15, 21, and 31. They are a plea for men to praise God for His goodness and His gifts to us. In Psalm 108:1 David says, "Oh God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise even with my glory." In other words, the great psalmist is saying that he is intent, and his purpose is to praise God. David knows praising God is his reason for living. Revelation 4:11 proclaims: "Thou are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." There's no doubt about it. We are here to praise the Lord. Indeed, it is the most important thing that we do.
Pastor John
How important is it that we praise the Lord? In Psalm 107 there are four identical verses: 8,15, 21, and 31. They are a plea for men to praise God for His goodness and His gifts to us. In Psalm 108:1 David says, "Oh God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise even with my glory." In other words, the great psalmist is saying that he is intent, and his purpose is to praise God. David knows praising God is his reason for living. Revelation 4:11 proclaims: "Thou are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created." There's no doubt about it. We are here to praise the Lord. Indeed, it is the most important thing that we do.
Pastor John
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Luke 14:27
And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
Jesus began calling His disciples back in Luke 5. In Luke 5:11, we read how "when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed Him." Then in Luke 5:27-28 Jesus met Levi and "he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed Him." When Jesus says, "Follow Me," it's not an invitation to a once-a-week church service. It's a summons to lose your life as you know it, and to find new daily adventures involving everything good and powerful with God. If you have not committed your life to following Jesus, my prayer is that you will choose to lose the life you're used to, pick up the cross, and truly be His disciple. Pastor John
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Mark 4:39
And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
I love this story. Jesus calms the troubled sea. From what we can gather from the Gospels, Jesus is tired at first and finds rest in the back of the boat. Prior to this He has ministered to a multitude of people, displaying His compassion for all of them. Suddenly, a storm comes up and His disciples are afraid, waking him with the question, "Master, carest thou not that we perish?" (v 38) With three words Jesus speaks stillness to the sea. He then addresses the disciples' fear with two questions: "Why are ye so fearful?" and "How is it that ye have no faith?" (v 40) These remain good questions for all of us who know Jesus and claim to trust Him. Fear results from lack of faith. If you're dealing with fear, ask yourself these questions....then remember that even the wind and the sea obey Him. Demons are subject to Him. You have nothing to fear. Pastor John
I love this story. Jesus calms the troubled sea. From what we can gather from the Gospels, Jesus is tired at first and finds rest in the back of the boat. Prior to this He has ministered to a multitude of people, displaying His compassion for all of them. Suddenly, a storm comes up and His disciples are afraid, waking him with the question, "Master, carest thou not that we perish?" (v 38) With three words Jesus speaks stillness to the sea. He then addresses the disciples' fear with two questions: "Why are ye so fearful?" and "How is it that ye have no faith?" (v 40) These remain good questions for all of us who know Jesus and claim to trust Him. Fear results from lack of faith. If you're dealing with fear, ask yourself these questions....then remember that even the wind and the sea obey Him. Demons are subject to Him. You have nothing to fear. Pastor John
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Luke 6:20
And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said Blessed be ye poor: For yours is the Kingdom of God.
Here in Luke 6, Jesus begins His teaching on the Beatitudes. Jesus delivers this powerful lesson, part of the "Sermon on the Mount," to His disciples and the multitudes. His Message seems to be: Your status in life has no bearing on your status with God. If you love and obey Christ's teaching, there is a blessing of belonging. You belong to the greatest kingdom there is. You are a citizen of blessed hope in a kingdom of eternal riches this world cannot comprehend. Our wealth in Jesus has no connection with what's in our bank accounts. According to Matthew's account of this sermon, we have "treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through to steal." Jesus makes His promise personal: "Yours is the Kingdom of God." Pastor John
Here in Luke 6, Jesus begins His teaching on the Beatitudes. Jesus delivers this powerful lesson, part of the "Sermon on the Mount," to His disciples and the multitudes. His Message seems to be: Your status in life has no bearing on your status with God. If you love and obey Christ's teaching, there is a blessing of belonging. You belong to the greatest kingdom there is. You are a citizen of blessed hope in a kingdom of eternal riches this world cannot comprehend. Our wealth in Jesus has no connection with what's in our bank accounts. According to Matthew's account of this sermon, we have "treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through to steal." Jesus makes His promise personal: "Yours is the Kingdom of God." Pastor John
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Luke 6:45
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of his heart his mouth speaketh.
These words of Jesus really require little explanation. Our mouths - that is, our words - reveal more about us than we often realize. We need to guard our words and know when to hold our tongues, speaking only good things. Our whole character falls into judgement when we bluntly speak our minds without using discretion in our conversations with others. That is a poor Christian witness, and it could be a stumbling block to people who do not know Christ. I think the lesson here is this: If you have to talk a lot, talk about the blessings and goodness of God. That will certainly keep you out of trouble. Pastor John.
These words of Jesus really require little explanation. Our mouths - that is, our words - reveal more about us than we often realize. We need to guard our words and know when to hold our tongues, speaking only good things. Our whole character falls into judgement when we bluntly speak our minds without using discretion in our conversations with others. That is a poor Christian witness, and it could be a stumbling block to people who do not know Christ. I think the lesson here is this: If you have to talk a lot, talk about the blessings and goodness of God. That will certainly keep you out of trouble. Pastor John.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Luke 4:332
And they were astonished at His doctrine for His word was with power.
Here in Luke 4, after His baptism by John and the wilderness temptation, Jesus sets out to fulfill His earthly ministry. Even though His home town forsakes Him (verses 16-30), He continues on and every other place He goes receives His preaching. The people are moved by His miracles, His casting out of demons, and His words to them. By Luke 4:37, the word of all that Jesus has done reaches "every place of the country round about." The Messiah has come! He is tangible, visible for mankind to see. God has fulfilled th Old Testament prophecies before their very eyes. His Word is as powerful today as it was when He walked the earth. Perhaps He has a mircle for you this year. Expect it, and look for Him to do something dynamic in your life- something that will make you an M.V.P. in His Kingdom.
Pastor John
Here in Luke 4, after His baptism by John and the wilderness temptation, Jesus sets out to fulfill His earthly ministry. Even though His home town forsakes Him (verses 16-30), He continues on and every other place He goes receives His preaching. The people are moved by His miracles, His casting out of demons, and His words to them. By Luke 4:37, the word of all that Jesus has done reaches "every place of the country round about." The Messiah has come! He is tangible, visible for mankind to see. God has fulfilled th Old Testament prophecies before their very eyes. His Word is as powerful today as it was when He walked the earth. Perhaps He has a mircle for you this year. Expect it, and look for Him to do something dynamic in your life- something that will make you an M.V.P. in His Kingdom.
Pastor John
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Ephesians 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
This verse speaks of God's love and plans for each of us. To be "created in Christ Jesus unto good works" means we are made in Christ's image and we are to take on His Character. Our salvation is the result of Christ's sacrifice on the cross and our own repentance of sins. So, this verse is not only about our lives here on earth, but also about our eternity. God eternally chose us. According to Ephesians 1:3, God "has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." In other words, before God ever created us, He had a plan for our eternal existence in His mind. You and I are not merely a divine afterthought. We are fearfully and wonderfully made to bless God, so that He in turn can bless us beyond what we can imagine. Pastor John
This verse speaks of God's love and plans for each of us. To be "created in Christ Jesus unto good works" means we are made in Christ's image and we are to take on His Character. Our salvation is the result of Christ's sacrifice on the cross and our own repentance of sins. So, this verse is not only about our lives here on earth, but also about our eternity. God eternally chose us. According to Ephesians 1:3, God "has blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus." In other words, before God ever created us, He had a plan for our eternal existence in His mind. You and I are not merely a divine afterthought. We are fearfully and wonderfully made to bless God, so that He in turn can bless us beyond what we can imagine. Pastor John
Luke 3:32
A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
This scripture is a continuation of Simeon's earlier words: "For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people..." As he took the Baby Jesus in his arms, Simeon knew that God had kept His promise to him, to Israel and to the world. He saw salvation in a baby - a person. Salvation is a person, not something that you do. Salvation is the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. You either have Him or you don't have Him. You either trust Him, or you don't trust Him. Do you know Jesus as your Salvation? You can know Him before you leave church today if there's any doubt in your mind. Pastor John
This scripture is a continuation of Simeon's earlier words: "For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people..." As he took the Baby Jesus in his arms, Simeon knew that God had kept His promise to him, to Israel and to the world. He saw salvation in a baby - a person. Salvation is a person, not something that you do. Salvation is the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. You either have Him or you don't have Him. You either trust Him, or you don't trust Him. Do you know Jesus as your Salvation? You can know Him before you leave church today if there's any doubt in your mind. Pastor John
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
2 Corinthians 3:17
Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is LIBERTY!
In our first week of the READ Initiative we have seen God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit mentioned in Genesis 1, the first chapter of the bible:
"In the beginning God (the Father).... Genesis 1:1
"...and the Spirit of God (The Holy Spirit) moved..." Genesis 1:2
"And God said, Let us (The Father and the Son) make man in our image..." Genesis 1:26.
God wanted us to see the work of the Trinity from the very beginning. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit were present and working then, throughout the Old and New Testaments, and still today. My prayer is that this year you will pursue God as never before. We will be a dynamic church as we allow the Holy Spirt to revitalize our spirits! Pastor John
In our first week of the READ Initiative we have seen God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit mentioned in Genesis 1, the first chapter of the bible:
"In the beginning God (the Father).... Genesis 1:1
"...and the Spirit of God (The Holy Spirit) moved..." Genesis 1:2
"And God said, Let us (The Father and the Son) make man in our image..." Genesis 1:26.
God wanted us to see the work of the Trinity from the very beginning. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit were present and working then, throughout the Old and New Testaments, and still today. My prayer is that this year you will pursue God as never before. We will be a dynamic church as we allow the Holy Spirt to revitalize our spirits! Pastor John
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)