The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;

he leads me beside still waters;

he restores my soul.

He leads me in right paths

for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,

I fear no evil;

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff—

they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies;

you anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life,

and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord

my whole life long.

They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”

There is no need for me to write to you about this service to the Lord’s people. For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action. But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove hollow, but that you may be ready, as I said you would be. For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we—not to say anything about you—would be ashamed of having been so confident. So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given. Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:

“They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.

After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.  There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.  The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

Mark 14: 12-26

On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?” So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him. Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.” The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover. When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve. While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.” They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely you don’t mean me?” “It is one of the Twelve,” he replied, “one who dips bread into the bowl with me. The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.” While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them. “Truly I tell you, I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.” When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Matthew 26: 69-75

Now Peter was sitting out in the courtyard, and a servant girl came to him. “You also were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said. But he denied it before them all. “I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said. Then he went out to the gateway, where another servant girl saw him and said to the people there, “This fellow was with Jesus of Nazareth.” He denied it again, with an oath: “I don’t know the man!” After a little while, those standing there went up to Peter and said, “Surely you are one of them; your accent gives you away.” Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, “I don’t know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Now the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were scheming to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him. “But not during the festival,” they said, “or the people may riot.” While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head. Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly. “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.

When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.” The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” They replied, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and you are going to raise it in three days?” But the temple he had spoken of was his body. After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

And he said to them, “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.” After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus. Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.) Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!” Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus. As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.’ But he answered, ‘It is written,“One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” ’ Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, ‘If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written, “He will command his angels concerning you”, and “On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” ’ Jesus said to him, ‘Again it is written, “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” ’ Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendour; and he said to him, ‘All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Away with you, Satan! for it is written,“Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.” ’ Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.

1 Corinthians 10:13

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’ “Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.”

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

Barnabas and Saul Commissioned

Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the ruler, and Saul. While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.

While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.” He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of James. When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and told them to give her something to eat.

But now thus says the Lord,

he who created you, O Jacob,

he who formed you, O Israel:

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by name, you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;

and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;

when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,

and the flame shall not consume you.

For I am the Lord your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour.

I give Egypt as your ransom,

Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you.

Because you are precious in my sight,

and honoured, and I love you,

I give people in return for you,

nations in exchange for your life.

Do not fear, for I am with you;

I will bring your offspring from the east,

and from the west I will gather you;

God’s Marvelous Plan for the Gentiles

For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles– Surely you have heard about the administration of God’s grace that was given to me for you, that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God’s holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.

Jesus Is Presented in the Temple

When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord’), and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, ‘a pair of turtle-doves or two young pigeons.’

Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, ‘Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.’ And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’

There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband for seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshipped there with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth

When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel’, which means, ‘God is with us.’ When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all, training us to renounce impiety and worldly passions, and in the present age to live lives that are self-controlled, upright, and godly, while we wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, ‘Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you.’ But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’ Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’ The angel said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.’ Then Mary said, ‘Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.’ Then the angel departed from her.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.

May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, ‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight” ’. John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, ‘The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.’

But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they came to the tomb, taking the spices that they had prepared. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they did not find the body. While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.’ Then they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb, they told all this to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles. But these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter got up and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; then he went home, amazed at what had happened.

When it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, ‘This is a deserted place, and the hour is now very late; send them away so that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy something for themselves to eat.’ But he answered them, ‘You give them something to eat.’ They said to him, ‘Are we to go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread, and give it to them to eat?’ And he said to them, ‘How many loaves have you? Go and see.’ When they had found out, they said, ‘Five, and two fish.’ Then he ordered them to get all the people to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and of fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and he divided the two fish among them all. And all ate and were filled; and they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish.

He left that place and came to his home town, and his disciples followed him. On the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astounded. They said, ‘Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?’ And they took offence at him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Prophets are not without honour, except in their home town, and among their own kin, and in their own house.’ And he could do no deed of power there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and cured them. And he was amazed at their unbelief.

Then he said to them, ‘You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to keep your tradition! For Moses said, “Honor your father and your mother”; and, “Whoever speaks evil of father or mother must surely die.” But you say that if anyone tells father or mother, “Whatever support you might have had from me is Corban” (that is, an offering to God)— then you no longer permit doing anything for a father or mother, thus making void the word of God through your tradition that you have handed on. And you do many things like this.’

Now there on the hillside a great herd of swine was feeding; and the unclean spirits begged him, ‘Send us into the swine; let us enter them.’ So he gave them permission. And the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the lake, and were drowned in the lake.

The swineherds ran off and told it in the city and in the country. Then people came to see what it was that had happened. They came to Jesus and saw the demoniac sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, the very man who had had the legion; and they were afraid. Those who had seen what had happened to the demoniac and to the swine reported it. Then they began to beg Jesus to leave their neighborhood.

And he said to them, ‘Do you not understand this parable? Then how will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. These are the ones on the path where the word is sown: when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. And these are the ones sown on rocky ground: when they hear the word, they immediately receive it with joy. But they have no root, and endure only for a while; then, when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. And others are those sown among the thorns: these are the ones who hear the word, but the cares of the world, and the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things come in and choke the word, and it yields nothing. And these are the ones sown on the good soil: they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.’

Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. They watched him to see whether he would cure him on the sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, ‘Come forward.’ Then he said to them, ‘Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill?’ But they were silent. He looked around at them with anger; he was grieved at their hardness of heart and said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately conspired with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.

He called the Twelve and began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over the unclean spirits.

He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in their belts, but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”

So they went out and claimed that all should repent.

After this there was a festival of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate there is a pool, called in Hebrew Beth-zatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay many invalids – blind, lame, and paralyzed. One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be made well?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; and while I am making my way, someone else steps down ahead of me.

God’s word for us today is Romans 12; 2, 14-21

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what the will of God – what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

God’s word for us today is Psalm 51: 15-17 and Micah 6: 6-8

Psalm 51: 15-17

O Lord, open my lips and my mouth will declare your praise. For you have no delight in sacrifice; if I were to give a burnt offering, you would not be pleased. The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Micah 6: 6-8

“With what shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with you God?

While Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the inland regions and came to Ephesus, where he found some disciples. He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?” They replies, “No, we have not hears that there is a Holy Spirit.” Then he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” They answered, “Into John’s baptism.” Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied – altogether there were about twelve of them.

He entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, and argued persuasively about the kingdom of God. When some stubbornly refused to believe and spoke evil of the Way before the congregation, he left them taking the disciples with him, and argued daily in the lecture hall of Tyrannus. This continued for two years, so that all the residents of Asia, both Jews and Greeks, heard the word of the Lord.

The Sons of Sceva

God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that when the handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were brought to the sick, their diseases left them, and the evil spirits came out of them.

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hole of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do; forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward that goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Following Paul’s Example

All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

(John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, “He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” ‘) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known.

This is the testimony given by John when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed and did not deny it, but confesses, “I am not the Messiah.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” He answered, “No.” Then they said to him, “Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness. Make straight the way of the Lord”, as the prophet Isaiah said.

Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, “Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.” This took place in Bethany across the Jordan where John was baptizing.

The next day he saw Jesus coming towards him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, “After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.” I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, “He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.” And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.”

The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi (which translated means Teacher), where are you staying/” He said to them, “Come and see/” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon.

But Naomi said, “Turn Back, my daughters, why will you go with me? Do I still have sons in my womb that they may become your husbands?

Would you then wait until they were grown? Would you then refrain from marrying? No, my daughters, it has been far bitter for me than for you, because the hand of the Lord has turned against me.” Then they wept aloud again. Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her. So she said, “See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in-law.” But Ruth said, “Do not press me to leave you or to turn back from following you! Where you go, I will go; where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die, I will die – there I will be buried. May the Lord do thus and so to me, and more as well, if even death parts me from you!” When Naomi saw that she was determined to go with her, she said no more to her. So the two of them went until they came to Bethlehem. When they came to Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them; and the women said, “Is that Naomi?” She said to them, “Call me no longer Naomi, call me Mara, for the Almighty has dealt bitterly with me. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty; why call me Naomi when the Lord has dealt harshly with me, and the Almighty has brought calamity upon me? So Naomi returned together with Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, who came back with her from the country of Moab. They came to Bethlehem at the beginning of the barley harvest.

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us then who are mature be of the same mind; and if you think differently about anything, this too God will reveal to you. Only let us hold fast to what we have attained. Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself.

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.

Luke 13: 31-35

At the very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, “Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you.” He said to them, “Go and tell that fox for me, ‘Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed away from Jerusalem.’ Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you.

Indeed, what once had glory has lost its glory because of the greater glory; for if what was set aside came through glory, much more has the permanent come in glory! Since, then, we have such a hope, we act with great boldness, not like Moses, who put a veil over his face to keep the people of Israel from gazing at the end of the glory that was being set aside. But their minds were hardened. Indeed, to this very day, when they hear the reading of the old covenant, that same veil is still there, since only in Christ is it set aside. Indeed, to this very day whenever Moses is read, a veil lies over their minds; but when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, be subject to your husbands as you are to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife just as Christ is the head of the church, the body of which he is the Savior. Just as the church is subject to Christ, so also wives ought to be, in everything, to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, in order to make her holy by cleansing her with the washing of water by the word, so as to present the church to himself in splendor, without a spot or wrinkle or anything of the kind – yes, so that she may be holy and without blemish. In the same way, husbands should love their wives as they do their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hates his own body, but he nourishes and tenderly cares for it, just as Christ does for the church, because we are members of his body. “For this reason man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become flesh.” This is a great mystery, and I am applying it to Christ and the church. Each of you, however, should love his wife as himself, and a wife should respect her husband.

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came like a rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.

Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crown gathered and was bewildered because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs – in our own languages we hear them speaking about God’s deeds of power.” All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others sneered and said, “They are filled with new wine.”

After these things Jesus showed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he showed himself in this way. Gathered there together were Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just after daybreak, Jesus stood on the beach; but the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, you have no fish have you?” They answered him, “No”. He said to them, “Cast the net to the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in because there were so many fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on some clothes, for he was naked, and jumped into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, only about a hundred yards off. When they had gone ashore, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred fifty-three of them; and though there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” because they knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus appeared to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.

Hebrews 12: 1-3

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

Then someone came to Jesus and said, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not bear false witness; Honor your father and mother; also, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “I have kept all these; what do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.

Of course, there is great gain in godliness combined with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, so that we can take nothing out of it; but if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains. But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. In the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you to keep the commandment without spot or blame until the manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ, which he will bring about at the right time – he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and lord of lords. It is he alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen. As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.

What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep to be slaughtered.” No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Jesus answered [Philip and Andrew], “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Very truly, I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Those who love their life lose it, and those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there will my servant be also. Whoever serves me, the Father will honor. “Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say – ‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine. Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be driven out. And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to indicate the kind of death he was to die.

As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Therefore, my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain (that is, through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will reveal yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me.

“I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.”

If you refrain from trampling the Sabbath, from pursuing your own interests on my holy day; if you call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the LORD honorable; if you honor it, not going your own ways, serving your own interests, or pursuing your own affairs; then you shall take delight in the LORD, and I will make you ride upon the heights of the earth; I will feed you with the heritage of your ancestor Jacob, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

Once when the king of Aram was at war with Israel, he took counsel with his officers. He said, “At such and such a place shall be my camp.” But the man of God sent word to the king of Israel, “Take care not to pass this place, because the Arameans are going down there.” The king of Israel sent word to the place so that it was on the alert. The mind of the king of Aram was greatly perturbed because of this; he called his officers and said to them, “Now tell me who among us sides with the king of Israel?” Then one of his officers said, “No one, my lord king. It is Elisha, the prophet in Israel, who tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedchamber.” He said, “Go and find where he is; I will send and seize him.” He was told, “He is in Dothan.” So he sent horses and chariots there and a great army; they came by night, and surrounded the city. When an attendant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. His servant said, “ Alas, master! What shall we do?” He replied, “Do not be afraid, for there are more with us than there are with them.” Then Elisha prayed: “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the servant, and he saw; the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. When the Arameans came down against him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, and said, “Strike this people, please, with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness as Elisha had asked. Elisha said to them, “This is not the way, and this is not the city; follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek.” And he led them to Samaraia.

Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, ‘One does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’” Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor; and he said to him, “All these I will give to you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’” Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him. Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee.

Truly, O people in Zion, inhabitants of Jerusalem, you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when he hears it, he will answer you. Though the Lord may give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself any more, but your eyes shall see your Teacher. And when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Then you will defile your silver-covered idols and your gold-plated images. You will scatter them like filthy rags; you will say to them, “Away with you!”

For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength. But you refused and said, “No! We will flee upon horses”—therefore you shall flee! A thousand shall flee at the threat of one, at the threat of five you shall flee, until you are left like a flagstaff on top of a mountain, like a signal on a hill. Therefore the LORD waits to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show mercy to you. For the LORD God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him. Truly, O People in Zion, inhabitants of Jerusalem, you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when he hears it, he will answer you.

Then the LORD raised up judges, who delivered them out of the power of those who plundered them. Yet they did not listen even to their judges; for they lusted after other gods and bowed down to them. They soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the LORD; they did not follow their example. Whenever the LORD raised up judges for them, the LORD was with the judge, and he delivered them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge; for the LORD would be moved to pity by their groaning because of those who persecuted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they would relapse and behave worse than their ancestors, following other gods, worshipping them and bowing down to them. They would not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways.

Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the LORD.” And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the LORD an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. The LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”

Cain spoke to Abel his brother. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him. Then the LORD said to Cain, “Where is your brother?” He said, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?” And the LORD said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground. And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand. When you work the ground, it shall no longer yield to you its strength. You shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth.”

God said to Jacob, “Arise, go up to Bethel, and settle there. Make an altar there to the God who appeared to you when you fled from your brother Esau.” So Jacob said to his household and to all who were with him, “Put away the foreign gods that are among you, and purify yourselves, and change your clothes; then come, let us go up to Bethel, that I may make an altar there to God who answered me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone.”

So they gave to Jacob all the foreign gods that they had, and the rings that were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak that was near Shechem. As they journeyed, a terror from God fell upon the cities all around them, so that no one pursued them. Jacob came to Luz (that is, Bethel), which is in the land of Canaan, he and all the people who were with him, and there he built an altar and called the place El-bethel, because it was there that God had revealed himself to him when he fled from his brother. And Deborah, Rebekah’s nurse, died, and she was buried under an oak below Bethel. So it was called Allon-bacuth.

God appeared to Jacob again when he came from Paddan-aram, and he blessed him. God said to him, “Your name is Jacob; no longer shall you be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.“ So he was called Israel. God said to him, “I am God Almighty: be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall spring from you. The land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your offspring after you.” Then God went up from him at the place where he had spoken with him. Jacob set up a pillar in the place where he had spoken with him, a pillar of stone; and he poured out a drink offering on it, and poured oil on it. So Jacob called the place where God had spoken with him Bethel.

If a brother or sister sins [against you], go and point out the fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take on or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony or two or three witnesses.’ If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector. “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold the face of God? My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me continually, “Where is your God?” These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I went with the throng, and led them in procession to the house of God, with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving, a multitude keeping festival. Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God. My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you from the land of Jordan and of Hermon, from Mount Mizar. Deep calls to deep at the thunder of your cataracts (waterfalls); all your waves and your billows have gone over me. By day the LORD commands his steadfast love, and at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life. I say to God, my rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I walk about mournfully because the enemy oppresses me?” As with a deadly wound in my body, my adversaries taunt me, while they say to me continually, “Where is your God?” why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you disquieted within me? Hope in god; for I shall again praise him, my help and my God.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you – you of little fait? Therefore, do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved. I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and that life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

The true light which enlightens everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave the power to become children of God — who were born not of blood or of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.” When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. “I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth to Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see – I am bringing you good news of great joy for all people.”

Jesus said, Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. “But about that day or hour no one knows, neither angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a long journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake – for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits – who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Now it is not necessary for me to write to you about the ministry to the saints, for I know your eagerness, which is the subject of my boasting about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year; and your zeal has stirred up most of them….. The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. As it is written, ‘He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God. Through the testing of this ministry you glorify God by your obedience to the confession of the gospel of Christ and by the generosity of your sharing with them and with all others, while they long for you and pray for you because of the surpassing grace of God that he has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

God’s word for us today is Revelation 8:2-4

“And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. Another angel with a golden censer came and stood at the altar; he was given a great quantity of incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar that is before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel.”

So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. When it was evening, he came with the twelve. And when they had taken their places and were eating, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.’ They began to be distressed and to say to him one after another, “Surely, not I? He said to them, “It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the bowl with me. For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born. While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly I tell you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

What then are we to say? Should we continue in sin in order that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin go on living in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly be united with him in resurrection like his. We know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin. For whoever has died is freed from sin. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death he died, he died to sin, once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him… And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.’” The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts! Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.’ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go fo us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”

“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him… And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”  The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke.  And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts! Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs.  The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.’ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go fo us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”

“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him… And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”  The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke.  And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts! Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs.  The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.’ Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go fo us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”

“In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him… And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these men are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:

“In the last days it will be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters will prophesy, and your young men shall see visions,and your old men shall dream dreams. Even upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy. And I will show portents in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and smoky mist. The sun shall be turned to darkness and the moon to blood, before the coming of Lord’s great and glorius day. Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved”

“Now if you are ready when you hear the sound of the … entire musical ensemble to fall down and worship the statue that I have made, well and good. But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire, and who is the god that will deliver you out of my hands?”

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had a terrible choice to make. Bow down to an idol or stay faithful to God and risk being thrown into a furnace! We may not face the furnace, but we face this challenge again and again in our lives. How will we respond?

[Jailer] What must I do to be saved?
[Paul & Silas] Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with your entire household. (vs. 30-31)

There is no more important Q&A for any human being. And your response will determine your eternal destiny. Have you put your trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not, you can do it today!

1.  Jairus’ sick daughter – “come lay your hands on her and she shall live” (Mark 5: 21-24, 34 – 42)
2.  Woman with the issue of Blood – “if I but touch the hem of His garment I shall be whole” (Mark 5: 25-34)
3. The Centurion – “speak the Word only and my servant shall be well” (Matthew 8: 5 – 13)
Each of these people decided:
A) WHEN they would be healed,
B) BY WHAT METHOD Jesus would He them,
C) The woman received healing without asking permission (Jesus did not know about it until after it was finished)
D) They each decided when and how they would release they’re faith – and Jesus honored their faith and it happened how THEY BELIEVED!!!

“We must obey God rather than human beings.”

The religious authorities in Jerusalem attempted to intimidate the disciples into silence, forbidding them to teach in the name of Jesus. After the coming of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2, the disciples possessed a courage that could not be shaken…even by the threat of imprisonment and imminent death. Is the courage of our forebears available to us today?

“Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.”

The Jerusalem Church exhibited a remarkable unity of spirit which expressed itself in their attitude toward private property. They practiced what 21st century Christians might label “Communism” or “Socialism.” Could this ever work in the 21st century?

Trinity celebrates a very successful Vacation Bible Experience!

“And His Name, through faith in His name, Has man this man strong, whom you see and know.” -Acts 3: 16a

1. Faith is essential in all prayer where God’s power is needed.
2. Faith is our part of “completing the circuit that releases God’s power and provision to the load (Ours or others needs).
3. Faith comes ONLY from our personal and specific knowledge of God’s specific promises which pertain to our need.
4. We should always (When praying for needs) approach God with confidence – because we have already been to His Word and know what he has promised He will do (The promises of His Word).

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers (verse 42).

The early Christians were committed to (1) the apostles’ teaching – like studying Scripture today, (2) fellowship and (3) worship, including the Lord’s Supper and prayers. How is the balance of these three elements in your Christian life?

“He said to me, ‘Mortal, can these bones live?’ I answered, ‘O Lord GOD, you know.’ Then he said to me, ‘Prophesy to these bones, and say to them: O dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live’” -Ezekiel 37:3-5

There are a lot of dry bones in our lives – and in the lives of those around us. A natural assumption is that dry bones can never live. But God is willing to breathe the Spirit into impossible situations!

Watch out for attacks from the Devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour (verse 8).

Have you ever felt like you’re under attack from the Devil? If so, what do you do to defend yourself? And how can we be prepared for such attacks?

Pastor Steve speaks of God’s Love this Mother’s Day.

“In [God's] great mercy he has given us a new birth and a hope that is alive. It is alive because Jesus Christ rose from the dead. He has given us new birth so that we might share in what belongs to him. It is a gift that can never be destroyed. It can never spoil or even fade away. It is kept in heaven for you. Through faith you are kept safe by God’s power. Your salvation is going to be completed. It is ready to be shown to you in the last days.”

Is your hope of salvation in Jesus Christ alive today? Today we look at how we can know we are eternally secure in Jesus.

“suddenly two men in dazzling clothes stood beside them. 5 The women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” -Luke 24:4b-5

The followers of Jesus were in despair. They expected Jesus to be the coming king. But now he was dead. Do you ever feel hopeless? Have you ever given up? Well take heart because when the women arrived at the tomb, Jesus wasn’t there anymore!

[Jesus said,] My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?

Does it surprise you that Jesus shouted this out when he was dying on the cross. Have you ever felt abandoned by God? Have you said, “God, where are you?” Well, you’re not alone. Jesus understands and will come alongside you in whatever you are facing.

“When the hour came, Jesus took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.’” -Luke 22:14-16

The people of Israel had celebrated the Passover for 1500 years by Jesus’ time. But this Passover dinner was different from any other – and also the same. Death was warded off. New life was found because of the sacrifice of a lamb… But this time it wasn’t just any quality lamb – Jesus was the Lamb of God…

Then Jesus poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus answered, “You do not know now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

Jesus – the Messiah, the Son of God, God in human flesh – washed the feet of his disciples. He told them it had to be that way for them to take part in his ministry. Jesus sent them out to do the same. What does it mean for us to have our feet washed? Or to wash the feet of others? Do they go together?

“Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” -Romans 12: 17-18, 21 (NLT)

One of the most powerful challenges we will ever face as Christians is the temptation to “get even” when someone has done us serious harm. But the Apostle Paul’s teaching is clear: “Never pay back evil with more evil… overcome evil with good.” This can feel like a superhuman challenge. Today we’ll explore how God makes forgiveness possible.

“O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. O that today you would listen to his voice!” -Psalm 95:6-7

It’s a really common thing, but how well do we really understand it? Today we’ll look at what worship is, who is the focus of worship, why we worship, why we don’t worship, and the results of worship. Then we’ll have a chance to see if the way we worship is the way God wants us to worship!

“Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you– you of little faith!” -Luke 12:27-28

One of the big questions Christians face is “Will we act out of fear or faith?”  Jesus tells us that the choice to give shows our trust in God who loves and cares for us.  How can we practice trusting in God, living in faith, and experiencing less anxiety in life?  We’ll explore what Jesus says this week.

Remember the sabbath day, and keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God; you shall not do any work.” -Exodus 20:8-10a

After creating the world, even God rested!  So why do we think that we can go 24/7 for weeks or months at a time without resting?  The Ten Commandments say to rest! But what does rest have to do to our relationship with God? Today, we’ll look at what the Bible teaches us about sabbath rest and how to practice it in our lives.

“”For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God– not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.” -Ephesians 2:8-10

We can get pretty messed up about the idea of service. Do we serve God to make God love us more? Or to keep God from being angry? Or because there are so many needs? If we do any of those things, we end up farther from God, not closer. What if we served out of love for and gratitude to God? What would that feel like?

The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (NLT)

Have you had the experience of being concerned about something, than have a verse of scripture jump out at you with fresh insight into your problem? That is an example of the Holy Spirit turning the written words of scripture into the Living Word (of Jesus) for you. If you hunger for a word from God, try opening his guidebook.

“In the morning, while it was still very dark, [Jesus] got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, ‘Everyone is searching for you.’” – Mark 1:35-37

Jesus has just had a pretty big day. And he has another one ahead. How will he find the strength for another day of preaching and teaching? Mark tells us that Jesus has gone away to pray and he stays long enough that everyone us up and looking for him. What do you think happens in that “deserted place”? Can we go too?

“He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.” -Mark 1:13

After being baptized by John in the Jordan River, the Spirit drove Jesus into the wilderness. He gets to know is adversary and the suffering it takes to oppose Satan.

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him. -Philippians 3:7-9

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross!  Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

“Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” -Luke 2:25-26

In today’s reading, we see a very old man who has been waiting a long time for God’s promise to him to be fulfilled. We also see other promises made, and we hear about promises fulfilled in Jesus. But what about us? Is God still keeping promises today?

Some Promise Topics

COMFORT, FORGIVENESS, AND SECURITY
Romans 10:13
1 John 1:8-10
John 14:27
Matthew 28:20b
1 John 3:1
1 John 4:4

A PLAN FOR YOU
Ephesians 2:10
Jeremiah 29:11

GOD’S PROVISION & WORRY
Luke 12:29-31
Malachi 3:10
Hebrews 13:5-6

POWER
Philippians 4:13
Luke 1:37

ETERNAL LIFE, GRIEF & LOSS
John 11:25-26
John 14:2-3
Revelation 7:16-17

REST
Matthew 11:28-30

HEALING & WISDOM
James 5:14-16
James 1:5-6

SUFFERING
James 1:2-4
Romans 8:28,31

CHALLENGE FOR 2010:
ARE YOU READY TO LIVE IN GOD’S PROMISE?

“Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see-I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah,* the Lord. -Luke 2:9-11

“Do not be afraid” is the most common message in the bible. The Christmas Story is a reminder of this.

Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord;
let it be to me according to your word.” (verse 38)

Have you ever had a “Mary moment”? When you sensed that God was calling you to do something unusual? Did you respond with a willing heart like Mary’s? How will you react the next time you sense God calling you?

“For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” -Isaiah 9:6

Have you ever felt like you were “walking in darkness?” The people of Israel in Isaiah’s time sure did. The people had turned from God with disastrous results. When all appeared lost, God gave them a message of hope – in a little child.

“John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him… ‘Bear fruits worthy of repentance… Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.’” -Luke 3 selected sections

People came out to John the Baptist, knowing that they needed help – knowing that God was calling them to change – but they didn’t know what to do. Are we ready for John’s radical answer? It sounds crazy, but it’s “good news” (v.18). What’s it mean?

“But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those bridesmaids got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’” -Matthew 25:6-8

If Jesus could come back at any time, do we need to look ahead in fear? Or will the end of the world as we know it be a party? It all depends on whether we’re ready when Jesus comes! What does it take to be ready? What does he want us to be doing?

[Jesus said,] I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! -John 15:11

Why do you think God gives us his revelation in the Bible? Did you ever think of Jesus as someone who wants you to be overflowing with joy? If we really believed that, how would that affect our willingness to do what he says?

“Thomas said to Jesus, ‘Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” -John 14:5-6

What does it mean for Jesus to be the way, the truth, and the life? What does it mean? And what about coming to the Father? Then Jesus says he’ll give us what we ask for in his name… How can that be?

“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house, and thus put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.” (NRSV)

What if we dared to believe everything we will ever need God will surely provide, and everything we will ever have is a gift from God meant to be shared?

“”When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days… Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life… Do you believe this?’” -John 11:17,24,25a,26b

What does Jesus mean when he says that he is the “resurrection and the life?” Is it just for the day we die or for now too? As Jesus asked Martha, “Do you believe this?” If so, how does that affect your life.

[Jesus said,] “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (v. 11) What does it mean that Jesus was willing to lay down his life for us?

In what way might I be able to “lay down my life” for someone today – my spouse, family member, friend
or fellow Christian?

[Jesus said,] “I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.” -John 8:12-13

What does it mean for Jesus to be “the gate” for the sheep? Is he really saying that he is only way? And if he is, what does it mean for him to promise those who “enter by him” abundant life?

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” -John 8:12

Walking in the darkness is scary. You don’t know what you can bump into. Have Jesus fill all areas of you life full of His light!

“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe.’” -John 6:35-36

What does it mean for Jesus to be “the bread of life?” Have those of us who know Jesus really never been hungry? It’s understandable that Jesus’ detractors didn’t believe him. Do we believe it? What it mean for Jesus to be our “bread of life?”

“Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, be subject to your husbands as you are to the Lord… Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…” -Ephesians 5:21-22,25

Isn’t this some kind of antiquated idea from the 1st century? What does it mean for wives to be subject to their husbands? What does it mean for husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church? We’ll dig into both of those questions today.

(The Apostle Paul speaking:) “Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ?…. Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” -Philippians 2:1a-2

Friendship “in the image of Christ” isn’t easy; in fact, it’s supernatural! Only by abiding in the Holy Spirit are we able to “work together with one mind and purpose.” When it happens, Christian friendship is one of life’s most precious gifts. How does Christian friendship look? Can you think of any biblical models that might help us?

“You [Jesus] are worthy to take the scroll… for you were killed, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation.” (New Living Translation)

When we realize that Jesus died specifically for people from every country, race and ethnicity, how will that affect the way we welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds to our church?

“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ… Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:12,27

A are there times when you feel like you just don’t belong? Or maybe you’d like someone else to go away? Do you doubt that God has given you gifts for service? Or that someone else does? Today we’ll look at what it means to be the Body of Christ.

“[Jesus said,] And do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying… Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” Luke 12:29,31

How can Jesus tell us not to strive for what scientists call our “basic needs”? All of our conventional wisdom tells us exactly the opposite of what Jesus says. Can seeking God’s kingdom get us food? And what does worry have to do with it?

“But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.” (New Revised Standard Version)

Do you sometimes feel weak and inadequate, so much so that God would never choose to use you for anything important? Think again! You are exactly who God wants!

Please welcome our guest preacher, Pastor Alfredo Delgado!

Sermon notes:

David and His Followers at Adullam
1 Samuel 22:1-2
Jesus Chooses the Twelve Apostles
Luke 6:12-13

[Jesus said,] “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus tells the weary and burdened to come to him for rest, but then he puts a yoke on them! Does that make sense? Could it be possible to work hard for Jesus and still feel rejuvenated? We’ll explore that idea today.

“The one who had received the five talents went off at once and traded with them, and made five more talents. In the same way, the one who had the two talents made two more talents. But the one who had received the one talent went off and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.” -Matthew 25:16-18

God gives us “talents” just like the servants in this story. What are they and what will we do with them? Why do we bury them so often? Is that OK with God? If not, how can we do something different?

“”Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.”

This passage from the book of Proverbs gives us some important advice. Our own insight and wisdom are not sufficient for life. If we want to walk a straight path and prosper (see verse 8), we must see God’s will and God’s plan for us! But how?

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (New Revised Standard Version)

Can I honestly say that I am not ashamed of the gospel – that is, that I am confident that the gospel is powerful and am willing to share it with others? If you do this, you’ll have a more exciting life!

Today’s preacher concluding our series “Preaching Our Passion” is our very own Tina Torres.

T – Testimony
I – Invite
P – Printed material

“Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?” (New Living Translation)

Can a God who allows pain & suffering to happen to his earthly children really claim to be good?

Today’s guest preacher is our very own Debbie Johnston, M.Div.

“Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures? ‘The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.’ This is the Lord’s doing, and it is wonderful to see.” (NLT)

Jesus Christ is that rejected cornerstone who has become the sure foundation of new life and resurrection for all who love him. How deep is your love for him?

Please welcome today’s speaker, our Youth Pastor Dan Meyerpeter.

I suggest the following song with today’s podcast: “Love the Lord” by Lincoln Brewster. -Steve D. (your podcaster)

“Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices.” -Luke 15:4-5

Jesus tells two parables – one about a finding a lost sheep and one about finding a lost coin. In both of them, there’s a big celebration! Is that really how God feels about each of us? How should that shape our attitude?

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this is mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. -Ephesians 6:18-19

What does it mean to “pray in the Spirit?” For that matter, what is prayer exactly, and what does God expect of us? How does prayer ‘complete’ the full armor of God?

Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these,* take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” -Ephesians 6:14-17

Pastor explains how God’s word as an arsenal can defeat the enemy. What versus of scripture do you hold onto in times of need?

“For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places… Take the helmet of salvation.” -Ephesians 6:12,17a

Lots of tough stuff happens in life. How does God protect us when it seems that all is lost? To give us an eternal perspective on things, God gives us the helmet of salvation, and Dennis Metcalf we’ll talk with us about it today.

“For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places… take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” -Ephesians 6:12, 16

It doesn’t take a big flame to start a deadly fire. You can only imagine the damage that flaming arrows could do to someone! God provides us with a shield to protect us from those arrows, but how do we pick it up? We’ll see today.

“And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.” -Acts 2:2-4

Ever feel powerless? Imagine trying to communicate with a huge crowd, all of whom speak different languages! God came alongside the early Christians and gave them what they needed. Is God still coming alongside us today?

Here are the pictures we took of the congregation (after the kids and their teachers left – we also didn’t get any pix of the band, the nursery, or anyone in the Trinity Cafe, but you know who you are!)

“Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace.” -Ephesians 6:14-15

Shoes? Who cares about shoes in a battle? And what does it mean to put on whatever will make us ready to proclaim the gospel of peace? What’s the gospel of peace and why would I want to tell anyone else about it? We’ll discuss that today.

“For his (Jesus’) sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as garbage, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness of God based on faith.”

According to this passage, a Christian’s righteousness is based on faith in Christ and not on buckling down in strict obedience to God’s ‘law.’ Does this mean we need make no effort to live the way Christ taught us by his example? How does ‘righteousness’ protect us?

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist… -Ephesians 6:13-14a

If there’s a “day of evil” coming, what good will a belt be? And why is “truth” the first characteristic mentioned in the description of the Armor of God? We’ll look at the way that truth can protect us. We’ll also look at what kind of harm we’re susceptible when we don’t wear the belt of truth.

“Put on the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” -Ephesians 6:11

Hey, I thought you said that evil was defeated on the cross! Well, that’s true, but the devil hasn’t given up yet. The struggle for the hearts and minds of God’s children continues. What is God’s plan to keep us safe and strong? That’s exactly what we’ll be looking at today & through June.

Then he [Jesus] said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” -John 20:27

Thomas doubted and needed to see the scars of Jesus to believe. What doubts are keeping us from believing Jesus fully?

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4.7

Dan Meyerpeter talks about how to love the shepherd and take care of the sheep. Take a listen.

….he said to them, “Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look, there is the place they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.” -Mark 16:6-7

The women have come to finish preparing Jesus’ body for burial, but when they arrive, he’s not there! Even after an angel tells them to go tell the good news to Jesus’ followers, they are paralyzed with fear. Can that happen to us too?

When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ -Mark 15:33-34.

Nobody expected the Messiah – the anointed one – to end up on the cross. Even Jesus himself seems to feel abandoned by God! What good can come from such a terrible tragedy? Today, we’ll look for signs of hope for Jesus’ followers.

“And [Jesus] said to the man who had the withered hand, ‘Come forward.’ Then he said to them, ‘Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the sabbath, to save life or to kill?’ But they were silent.” -Mark 3:3-4

The religious leaders set a trap for Jesus. Would he help a man whose hand didn’t work even on the Sabbath Day? Jesus was pretty upset by their apathy. What will he do? What will the consequences be? What does it mean for us?

Jesus excuses his disciples for picking grain on the sabbath: “The sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the sabbath.” Is Jesus the ultimate rule breaker?

Please welcome guest preacher Nick Zylstra.

“Jesus said to them, ‘The wedding guests cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them, can they? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day.’” -Mark 2:19-20

The Pharisees don’t understand why Jesus’ followers don’t fast twice a week. But Jesus tells them that they’re stuck! It’s time for a new way of being with God – they’re in the middle of a wedding feast! Is Jesus calling for something new today? How is he unsticking us in our 2009 lives?

“When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, ‘Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?’” -Mark 2:16-17

Jesus spent a lot of time with people who were looked down upon. That caused quite a stir among the religious “in crowd.” Are we still called to reach out to outcasts? And could it mean that Jesus wants to hang out with me too – even though I don’t have it together?

“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished.” -Luke 4:1-2

Why would the Holy Spirit lead Jesus into a place where he would be hungry and would be tempted by the devil? Why was he faced with the biggest temptation after being weakened by hunger? What was the goal? How does God use temptation and trials in our lives?

Then some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’

Jesus healed the paralytic in part because his friends had enough faith in Jesus to take the paralytic to him at any cost. Can you think of a time when you moved “heaven and earth” to help someone meet Christ?

“Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, ‘I do choose. Be made clean!’” -Mark 1:41

Jesus is confronted by a man with leprosy – an outcast from society – a true untouchable. Jesus chooses to take a risk and cross strict boundaries to show his love for him. Who do I see as untouchables in my world? How can I see them as Jesus sees them? What boundaries does Jesus want me to cross to do that?

In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed.

Have you ever tried doing service for God when your tank was running on empty? Even Jesus needed time to refresh his spirit to keep his ministry on track. How can we refuel our spirits when the tank says “low fuel?”

And he [Jesus] cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons. -Mark 1:34

In today’s reading, Jesus heals the Apostle Peter’s mother-in-law and also many other people who had all kinds of diseases and demon possession.
Does God still heal today?
What can we do to receive healing?
What if we pray and do not receive healing?

James 5:14 – Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord.

Just then there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit, and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” -Mark 1:23-25

In today’s reading, Jesus casts an unclean spirit out of a man. What was that all about? Can it still happen? What impact does it have on our lives as Christians?

The Armor of God – Ephesians 6:10-18.

1 John 4:4 – “Little children, you are from God, and have conquered them; for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the sea– for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” And immediately they left their nets and followed him. -Mark 1:16-18

Jesus offers a tough decision to four future disciples in today’s reading. Are there pre-qualifications for being a follower of Jesus? Does Jesus really require us to leave everything behind to follow him? What next?

“In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’”

What’s with this baptism thing? And why did Jesus of all people choose to be baptized? Are we called to be baptized too? And if so, what is the meaning of baptism in our lives as followers of Jesus Christ?

“On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” -Matthew 2:11

What made these gifts worthy of the Christ child? The Magi’s gifts have much to teach us about the nature of this special child. What will each of us bring him in 2009?

Directed by Krista Penney.

]]> http://podcast.trinitywestsac.org/archives/148/feed 0 3:46 Christmas Eve, December 24, 2008, 7:00 PM. Directed by Krista Penney. Christmas Eve, December 24, 2008, 7:00 PM. Directed by Krista Penney. Music,,Podcast,,Trinity,Classics Trinity Presbyterian Church no No http://podcast.trinitywestsac.org/archives/147 http://podcast.trinitywestsac.org/archives/147#comments Wed, 31 Dec 2008 18:54:50 +0000 Trinity Presbyterian Church of West Sacramento http://podcast.trinitywestsac.org/?p=147 Christmas Eve, December 24, 2008, 11:00 PM.

Narrations by Dan Meyerpeter, Debra Johnston, and Steve Whitney.

Music by Joseph Faith.

“Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, “This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed– and a sword will pierce your own soul too.” -Luke 2:34-35

What does it mean to follow Jesus? Simeon speaks of the light and glory that Jesus will bring. But he also predicts opposition, revealing of secrets, and even of a sword. How does that relate to our lives as Christians?

“And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth… From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” -John 1: 14, 16-17

Pastor Steve examines what it means to have God with us in our lives as we welcome Jesus this Christmas.

“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary… The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus.” -Luke 1:26,30-31

God chooses an unremarkable young woman named Mary and uses her to bring Jesus into the world. “How can this be?” she asks! We ask that too. How does God use us today? Mary says yes. Will we say yes too?

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners.” -Isaiah 61:1

Isaiah was a prophet, anointed with God’s Holy Spirit. Along with the blessing of the Spirit, he was given a hefty job description. Jesus quotes this passage in Luke 4:18-19, claiming the same mission. And it’s been passed on to us with the power of the Holy Spirit!

As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” -Mark 8:2-3

God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus 2000 years ago. And hundreds of years before that, God sent Isaiah and Elijah who prepared the way for John. How is God preparing the way for Jesus in our church today? Or in the world around us? Or in our hearts?

“Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way. All the paths of the LORD are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his decrees.” -Psalm 25:8-10

The season of Advent – the four Sundays before Christmas – is a time of competing priorities and conflicting values. What is God’s call for us in this season? We’ll explore the question today.

“…choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served in the region beyond the River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” -Joshua 24:15

Joshua is nearing the end of his life, and it’s time to pass his wisdom on to the people of Israel. Instead of a pep talk, he gives them a choice. And the choice is a difficult one – a choice that must be made very carefully or there will be dire consequences. We are presented with the same choice today. How can we decide? What will our choice be? And what should we expect?

“Be strong and courageous; for you shall put this people in possession of the land that I swore to their ancestors to give them… I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:6, 9

The great leader Moses is dead. Joshua is alone at the helm. He has a dangerous mission – to lead the people of God in taking possession of the Promised Land. How must Joshua have felt? God is gracious and gives him the keys to overcoming fear and being successful at the task. What does God tell him to do? What does God tell us to do so that we can live with no fear?

Now Jericho was shut up inside and out because of the Israelites; no one came out and no one went in. The LORD said to Joshua, “See, I have handed Jericho over to you, along with its king and soldiers. You shall march around the city, all the warriors circling the city once. Thus you shall do for six days. -Joshua 6:1-3

After a generation in the wilderness, God’s people are about to get their first shot at entering the Promised Land. But why does it have to be the walled city of Jericho? God has led them into what seems to be an impossible situation. How will God get them out? Is God still in the business of getting people through impossible challenges? How can we know what to do?

“When Joshua was old and well advanced in years, the LORD said to him, “You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over… Be sure to allocate this land to Israel for an inheritance, as I have instructed you… But to the tribe of Levi he gave no inheritance, since the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, as he promised them.” Joshua 4:1,6b,14

The tribe of Levi was the tribe responsible for helping the people to stay connected with God.  They were the priests, handled the burnt offerings, and arranged for the people to worship God.  So why did God cut them out when the land was divided up?  Why make them dependent on the rest of the people’s generosity?

When the entire nation had finished crossing over the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua: “Select twelve men from the people, one from each tribe, and command them, ‘Take twelve stones from here out of the middle of the Jordan, from the place where the priests’ feet stood, carry them over with you, and lay them down in the place where you camp tonight.’” -Joshua 4:1-3

God gave the people of Israel an amazing demonstration of providence – God’s ability to provide for their needs. Then to help them remember God’s love and power, they built a monument. How can we remember the ways that God has been good to us so that we can be faithful rather than fearful as we face the future?

“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Go up this mountain of the Abarim range, and see the land that I have given to the Israelites. 13 When you have seen it, you also shall be gathered to your people, as your brother Aaron was, 14 because you rebelled against my word in the wilderness of Zin when the congregation quarreled with me. You did not show my holiness before their eyes at the waters.”

Moses’ mistake cost him the right to enter the Promised Land. Instead, God passed the mantle of leadership on to his protege’, Joshua. This should get our attention. If the great Prophet Moses wasn’t righteous enough to lead God’s people into Canaan, how can 21st century Christians dare serve such a holy God today?

“Then all the congregation raised a loud cry, and the people wept that night. And all the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron; the whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness! Why is the LORD bringing us into this land to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become booty; would it not be better for us to go back to Egypt?” -Numbers 14:1-3

The spies had gone out to see what the “Promised Land” was like and had found a rich land, but they had also found strong inhabitants. Would they trust God to bring them through successfully? Or would they turn back to the “lesser of two evils”?

“So Moses set out with his assistant Joshua, and Moses went up into the mountain of God. To the elders he had said, ‘Wait here for us, until we come to you again; for Aaron and Hur are with you; whoever has a dispute may go to them.’ Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. ” Exodus 24:13-15

Joshua got to watch Moses stepping into the cloud of the presence of God. But Joshua was still outside the cloud. And he was stuck there on the mountain for 40 days… Are there people around us who seem to have a special relationship with God? Or maybe there’s a Joshua waiting on you? How does God’s plan for spiritual growth involve other people? We’ll take a look!

“So Joshua did as Moses told him, and fought with Amalek, while Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.  Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed; and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed.” Exodus 17:10-11

When the Amalekites attacked the people of Israel out in the wilderness, Moses had a plan.  It looked like magic – when he raised his arms, the people of Israel were winning.  When Moses put his arms down, they would lose!  Why did it happen that way?  Does God still do that kind of thing today?

And stay tuned for our upcoming message series on Joshua and how he met the huge challenges he faced!

“You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness.  Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls.  But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.” James 1:19-22

The word holiness makes us think of people who are kind of out of touch with the real world, and expressions like “holier than thou” suggest something negative.  What does God’s call to holiness really mean and how does it play out in our daily lives?

Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money, saying, ‘Give me also this power so that anyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.’ (Acts 8:18-19) 

Many of us would like to relate to God and be empowered by God’s Spirit on our own terms. Simon tried to buy God’s power. We’d never do that, but do we do something similar? We’ll see! 

“You shall put these words of mine in your heart and soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and fix them as an emblem on your forehead. 19 Teach them to your children, talking about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise.” -Deuteronomy 11:18-19

God has called us to teach the word to our children – as individuals and as a church. How can that work in a world that seems to be too busy to take a breath? We’ll explore that today.

While they were stoning Stephen, he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he knelt down and cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he died. -Acts 7:59-60

Stephen was a servant of Jesus Christ and a victim of trumped up charges. But instead of telling people what they wanted to hear, he stayed true to the end – even praying for forgiveness for those who were about to execute him. How did he do it? Is that kind of strength accessible to Christians today?

“And the twelve called together the whole community of the disciples and said, ‘It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, friends, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.’” -Acts 6:2-4

The apostles seemed to believe that feeding the hungry and ministry of prayer and the word were both necessary. What is our 21st century equivalent to the decision they made. What can we do in our lives as Christians?

Ananias,” Peter asked, “why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, were not the proceeds at your disposal? How is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You did not lie to us but to God!” -Acts 5:3-4

What was so bad about what Ananias did that Peter called it “Satan filling his heart”? Then he died on the spot! Why is this particular sin so bad? What effect does lying to each other and to God have on us today?

(This is the same passage Pastor Steve preached
in his candidate sermon at Trinity 5 years ago.)
“And leaving the crowd behind, they took Jesus with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion…” -Mark 4:36-38a

Jesus asked his disciples to take him across the sea, a journey that would prove quite dangerous. And even though he was there in the boat, the storm was serious enough to threaten to sink the boat. What does it mean to have faith in the middle of the storm? Does it even make sense?

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” -Matthew 6:25-26

Even living what may be the highest standard of living of all time, we worry a great deal about having enough. That can prevent us from being generous and from trusting God as Jesus has called us to. How can we give and still feel secure? We’ll explore that today.

“But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; for we cannot keep from speaking about what we have seen and heard.” -Acts 4:19-21

All of us face pressure to conform. We may know in our heart what is right, but it’s a lot easier to do what others expect from us… How will we make the decision when we’re on the spot? Let’s see what Peter and John did!

“‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?’ He answered, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The slaves said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them in?’ But he replied, ‘No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them.’”

God appears to allow evil to thrive both in the world as well as in his church. Why doesn’t he just wipe it out? Today’s sermon is by Pastoral Assistant Debra Johnston, M.Div.

“Then Simeon blessed them (Joseph and Mary) and said to his mother Mary, ‘This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that inner thoughts of many will be revealed-and a sword will pierce your own soul too.’”

Christian faith isn’t always about the blessings God can give us. We find ourselves shocked when our love for Christ brings us times of testing and persecution. How can we stand firm when our faith journey presents us with a traumatic surprise? Please welcome guest preacher Rev. Dr. Thomas Smith.

“One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, at three o’clock in the afternoon. And a man lame from birth was being carried in. People would lay him daily at the gate of the temple called the Beautiful Gate so that he could ask for alms from those entering the temple. When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked them for alms. Peter looked intently at him, as did John, and said, “Look at us.” And he fixed his attention on them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk.” -Acts 3:1-6

How did Peter, one of Jesus’ followers, perform such an amazing feat of healing? Why did it happen? What did it mean in the 1st century and what does it mean in the 21st?

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers… they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” -Acts 2:42,45-47

What would it be like if the Christian Church looked like this? Acts 2:41-47 isn’t a set of commandments, but it does describe what’s possible for a community of people who follow Jesus! Do we want to live this way?

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” -Acts 2:37-39

Everyone saw something amazing the day that the Holy Spirit was given to the church. They knew that they had experienced something new and powerful, but what was it? What did it mean? What should they and we do now?

“When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.” -Acts 2:1-4

How can a crew of 120 people be Jesus’ witnesses to the whole world? They can’t! At least not on their own. But in today’s passage, the Holy Spirit empowers some amazing ministry. What does it mean for us? We’ll see today!

“So they proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also known as Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed and said, ‘Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.’ And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles.” -Acts 1:23-26

How can we know God’s will? Jesus’ disciples prayed and then “cast lots” (flipped a coin). Is that really how you do it? What do we do when we know that we’re called by God but not sure what we’re called to? We’ll explore the question today! 

So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” -Acts 1:6-8

Patience isn’t one of the virtues of our 21st century culture. When Jesus’ disciples asked him for a timetable, he told them that wasn’t their business. Wait for the power of the Holy Spirit, he said. How about us? Are we OK with Jesus’ agenda and timetable? What does it mean to wait for God?

Praise Set

Send the Fire (Lex Loizides, William Booth)
Ancient of Days (Gary Sadler, Jamie Harvill)
Blessed Be Your Name (Beth Redman, Matt Redman)
Draw Me Close (Kelly Carpenter)

Prayer of Confession

Prayer Response:  Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) chorus (Kelly Carpenter)

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” -Matthew 28:18-20

What does it mean to go and make disciples? Have
we really thought it through? Are we ready to do that
as individual Christians and as a church?

“And I will say to my soul, ‘Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.‘ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God.” -Luke 12:19-21

It sounds like the farmer in this story is planning ahead. Is there anything wrong with that? What does Jesus mean by “rich toward God”? Must we suffer to do it?

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven…” -Matthew 5:43-45a

Give to, love, pray for whom??? My enemies? Surely that doesn’t really include ____________ (fill in the blank with the right name). We’ll see this morning!

“Let your word be ‘Yes, Yes’ or ‘No, No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one.” -Matthew 5:37

Jesus’ standards in the Sermon on the Mount seem ridiculously high.  What’s up with that.  And what’s wrong with making promises and oaths?  What is Jesus trying to tell us about the value of saying a simple “yes” or “no”?  Guest preacher, Dave Dove helps us understand it all.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” -Matthew 5:27-28

What does Jesus have to say about sex? Adultery? Lust? Divorce? Does he just not want us to have fun? Is what Jesus describes really even possible?

“So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.” -Matthew 5:23-24

Jesus seems to be saying that anger, name calling, an disputes between people are on the same level as the Old Testament against murder. What can Jesus possibly be saying? What can we do with it?

“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.  No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:14-16

Jesus says that Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth.  What does it mean to be salt and light?  What about hiding the light under a basket?  So what will we go do? 

“Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.”

How did Jesus himself interpret the Old Testament writings, which were the only scriptures available to his disciples while Jesus was alive?  Why does it matter to us today?

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” -John 20:1-2

Where is Jesus? His disciples sure didn’t understand. They knew what to expect from Jesus before, but now, everything’s changed. If Jesus is risen, what now?

Today’s Bible Reading is Matthew 27:11-32.

“So after they had gathered, Pilate said to them, ‘Whom do you want me to release for you, Jesus Barabbas or Jesus who is called the Messiah?’ … And they said, ‘Barabbas.’ 22 Pilate said to them, ‘Then what should I do with Jesus who is called the Messiah?’ All of them said, ‘Let him be crucified!’” -Matthew 27:17,21b-22

In the final days of Jesus’ life on earth, the religious and civil authorities found him guilty. Then they gave the people a chance to choose. They chose to release a man called Barabbas and to crucify Jesus. What would we do?

“Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’” -John 11:21-23

Why did Jesus let his friend Lazarus die? Did he really think that a theological statement would be a comforting answer? What does it mean for Jesus to be “the resurrection and the life”? And what can we do with it?

“‘As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ Jesus answered, ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him’” -John 9:1-3

Meeting a man who was born blind brought up some theological questions among Jesus disciples. But the real storm started after the healing. Why is Jesus so controversial? What does this healing mean for us?

Your Trinity Podcast Team

“The woman said to him, ‘I know that Messiah is coming’ (who is called Christ). ‘When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am he, the one who is speaking to you.’ … Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, ‘He told me everything I have ever done.’” -John 4:25-26, 39

Jews didn’t talk to Samaritans, especially not this Samaritan woman. But Jesus did. He learned her secrets, she learned about him, and lives were changed! Learn more today.

“Jesus answered Nicodemus, ‘Very truly, I say to you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.’” -John 3:3

Theologians have been battling over the precise meaning of the phrase “born from above” for some time now, but the main issue is, “How can WE know we have been ‘born from above’?”

“Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! for it is written, ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.’” Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him.” -Matthew 4:10-11

The Spirit led Jesus out into he wilderness where, after forty days of fasting, he was tempted by the devil.  Was his choice really a big deal?  How did Jesus resist?  Does his victory mean that we too can resist temptation? How can we do it and what will it mean in our lives when we do?

“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” -Matthew 5:11-12

Jesus says that all kinds of people in tough situations are actually blessed! How can this be? What do those in pain, out of power, and the persecuted except suffering? What does it even mean to be blessed in those situations? We’ll discuss it today.

“As Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea– for they were fishermen.  And he said to them, ‘Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.’ Immediately they left their nets and followed him.” -Matthew 4:18-20

What will it mean when Jesus calls?  For these fishermen, it looked like giving up everything in exchange for uncertainty, downward mobility, and discomfort.  What made them decide to follow?  Will we decide to follow too?

“…for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living water, and dug out cisterns for themselves, cracked cisterns that can hold no water.” -Jeremiah 9:13

Have we been looking for life in all the wrong places?  Are our lives empowered by living water or are we storing everything we have and everything we are in cisterns that hold no water at all?  How would we know?  What can we do about it?

“And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.  And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.’” -Matthew 3:16-17

Why was Jesus baptized at all?  And why did God choose this time to sing Jesus’ praises?  John the Baptist’s objections look pretty reasonable too.  All in all, the baptism of Jesus can be confusing.  What did it mean then, and what does it mean for us today?

“In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage.’  When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him.” Matthew 2:1-3

When the Wise Men followed the star and arrived in Jeru-salem looking for Jesus, they came to King Herod to ask how to find him.  Herod wasn’t as helpful as he appeared.  Where are we getting our guidance?  From Herod or from God?

Today’s scripture is Hebrews 1:1-4.
“He is the reflection of God’s glory.”

In this Chrismas season, we are reminded that we are all children of God and come to Him as children, full of questions and wonder, hoping in the truth that ‘nothing is impossible’ with God.

Christmas is the season of miracles, but for many of us it is a time when we focus on how far our lives have fallen short of our expectations…even in our faith walk.  Can we, like our sister Elizabeth, really believe that ‘nothing is impossible’ with God?

“But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.”
-Luke 24:13-14

Guest speaker Dave Dove preaches on the 400 years of world history between the Old and New Testaments of the Bible.

“Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.”
-Matthew 24:42-44

Jesus said that he would be back, but when?  What will happen to the world in the meantime?  Is it destined to get worse and worse?  How are we supposed to act in the world?

“[The Holy Spirit] will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you.  All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.” – John 16:14-15

What is the Trinity?  Can 1+1+1=1?  How can God be three and one at the same time?  If I do  manage to understand the Trinity, what  difference will that make in my life?

“If you can comprehend it, it is not God.“
- Augustine of Hippo, 4th Century

Deuteronomy 6:4
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.”

Genesis 1:1-2
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.”

John 1:1-3a
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.   He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being.”

Perichoresis
peri = around
choresis = dance

Genesis 1:27
“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

John 14:20
“On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.”

“The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried.  In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side.” – Luke 16:22-23

Do heaven and hell exist?  If so what and where are they?  How do you end up in one or the other?  Should we be worried?  Is there any way to be sure of our eternal fate?

“Then Peter came to him and asked, ‘Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me?  Seven times?’
‘No, not seven times,’ Jesus replied, ‘but seventy times seven.’”

Does God really expect us to forgive like that?   Won’t that make me a doormat or an enabler of someone caught in sin?

“I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that can do nothing more. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him!  Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God’s sight. But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

How much does God protect us?  Can we count on it?  What about the things we’ve seen that God hasn’t protected us from?  Where is God then?

“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in my house, and thus put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing.” -Malachi 3:10

How can we tell how much to give financially?  What does our culture say?  What does the Bible say?  How do I make a decision?

Supplimental readings:
Luke 16:13-14
2 Corinthians 9:7-8

“The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.  Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.” -Psalm 19:1-4

Is there wisdom in other religions?  Has God revealed himself outside of the Bible?  What should we accept and what should we reject?

In Ephesians 2:8-9, Paul writes, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God – not the result of works, so that no one may boast.”  That sounds clear.  But then in James 2:24,  James writes, “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”

Which is it?  How can both be correct?  How can a Christian deal with a conflict like this in the Bible?

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God; for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1

If God is indeed speaking and acting in the world, how can we tell what is God and what isn’t?  In 1 John 4, John gives his community some basic principles to use to understand that – and they still work nearly 2000 years later!

Discernment
“A Christian’s ability to distinguish between truth and error, good and evil, right and wrong, ‘from God’ and ‘not from God’”

Discernment Criteria
1. God Is Consistent
a) with Jesus
Does an interpretation or perspective point to Jesus or leave room for Jesus?
b) with what God has said and done
Is an interpretation of perspective consistent with God’s action and self-revelation in Scripture?
2. Community
God wants us to depend on each other. It’s much easier to discern God’s will in community.
3. Listen to the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is within us!
b) It’s easier to hear “yes” and “no”

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone.  To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Do we still have spiritual gifts?  Even the spectacular ones?  If we do, how can we tell which ones we have?  What are we supposed to do with them?

Lists of Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:8-10
1 Corinthians 12:28-30
Romans 12:6-8
Ephesians 4:11-12
1 Peter 4:9-11
There may be several more depending on whom you ask.

Knowing that God can use our suffering to console others helps, but is there any answer to why God allows incredible suffering at all?

“‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the LORD.  ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.’” (Isaiah 55:8-9 NRSV)

Did God change between the Old and New Testaments?  What was God thinking doing some of the things we read about in the Old Testament?  Where are the love and grace we see in Jesus’ teaching?  Are they there at all?

Today’s Big Questions
#1 – I cannot equate the God of the Old Testament who helped, asked for, etc. armies to kill with the God of love in the New Testament.
#2 – Why don’t we as Christians, follow all the dietary (& other) laws of Moses?
#3 – How come some things like slavery and polygamy were OK back in Old Testament times?

“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17, NRSV

How can we interpret the Bible?  Are there principles that will help?  What about the confusing stuff or the weird stuff? Are there parts that don’t matter or that are now out of date?

Have you felt too weak or ill-equipped to be useful?  Or that you couldn’t really make a difference in the world?  Jesus may just have other plans for you…

Please welcome Reverend Julie Kim this week.

“… As Jesus and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”  Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.”
- Mark 10:46-49

Ever get angry at someone? Or really frustrated by a situation? King David did!

“O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me– those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil!”
-Psalm 139:19-20, NRSV

Can you really say that to God? How does God respond? Did someone just add those lines into this beautiful Psalm?  We’ll explore that today.

“For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” -Psalm 139:13-14a (NRSV)

Ever wonder why you’re here?  If there is a purpose for your life?  Or maybe if you are just a random occurrence?  Psalm 139 tells us about God’s relationship with us as Creator, and what it means for God to have plans for us.

“Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there.” -Psalm 139:7-8 (NRSV)

Ever try to get away from God? How did that work for you? King David expresses the same sentiments in Psalm 139, but wherever he can go, he finds that God is there too. So what can we do? We’ll explore that.

“O LORD, you have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away…” Psalm 139:1-2 (NRSV)

Ever feel that nobody would want to be around you if they really knew you? Or maybe that nobody really understands you? Or that God doesn’t really understand you?  We will examine what it means for God to know us as we explore the words of the psalmist in Psalm 139.

Draw near to God?  What does it even mean to draw near to God?  How can we do it? We’ll look at James’ insights into that and see how they can work in our own lives.

When Simon Peter figured out who Jesus really was, Jesus told him that God had revealed it to him.  Jesus gave Peter a new name that means “rock,” and Jesus promised to build something important and strong on his foundation.  What does that mean for us?  What does it mean for Jesus to build the church?  Will he build any old church?  How can we be part of what he’s doing?

“If there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our proclamation has been in vain and your faith has been in vain…If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are, of all people, most to be pitied.”

What do you really believe about resurrection? The Apostle Paul was very clear resurrection is a core issue of the Christian gospel. Resurrection: Christ’s and ours, it really does matter, and it is the source of our greatest Christian hope.

A nasty case of sibling rivalry had broken out in the Corinthian Church as to who were the “most spiritual,” and the women were behaving more like pagan priestesses than Christian converts. The Apostle Paul warns the Corinthians that every spiritual gift, no matter how spectacular, must be exercised in Christian humility. He reminds us the only thing that will survive into eternity is the quality of our relationships on earth. How’s your love walk?

When God starts working in your life, it’s going to upset someone.  Why does that happen?  What do we do about it?  How can God support me in the uncomfortable interactions that follow?  It’s not a new problem, and we’ll explore it now.

“When they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:31 (NRSV)

God wants to work in our lives, but God usually chooses to wait until we give permission. When the 1st century church prayed for the Holy Spirit’s work to happen among them, the result was amazing! Are we ready to “take the plunge” into the Spirit too?

When they had made the prisoners stand in their midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?”
-Acts 4:7 (NRSV)

Where does the power to heal come from?  What if we pray for healing and it doesn’t happen? What did Peter mean when he said, “There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.” And what does that have to do with healing?

6 But Peter said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk.”  7 And he took him by the right hand and raised him up; and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong.  8 Jumping up, he stood and began to walk, and he entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God.”
-Acts 3:6-8 (NRSV)

Does God still heal?  Why some and not others?  What is our role in healing? Dave Dove delivers this week’s captivating Word as Pastor Steve recovers from illness.

There’s lots of talk these days about “spirit” and things “spiritual.”  But who is this Spirit that Peter talks about?  What does Jesus have to do with any of this?  And why does that matter?  We’ll explore it today.

What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit?  And can we really know God’s will through the Spirit?

Paul says we are one body in Christ. How does that affect the way we see the Church and our function in it? We’ll explore that here.

“For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.”                             -Ephesians 2:10

Many of us try to earn God’s favor by “being good.”  Others feel that an hour on Sunday morning is enough.  Still others don’t think they have anything to offer.  What does the Apostle Paul have to say about Christian service?

We live in nation propelled by wealth and consumption. Is that compatible with the gospel? In Matthew 6:19-34, Jesus tells us that we can’t serve both God and money. What does that mean for our day-to-day lives as Christians?

“To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”   Romans 8:6

What does true freedom look like? Living under our own power can only lead to frustration, dissatisfaction, and eventually death. But God promises us that in Christ Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can experience life and peace. Where in your life would you like to experience that kind of freedom today?

This week Pastor Steve takes a look at Romans 8:1-9 to find out how we can find freedom as we begin a our new series, “Seeking God’s Will.”

“He said to him the third time, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’  Peter felt hurt because he said to him a third time, ‘Do you love me?’  And Peter said to him, ‘Lord you know everything; you know that I love you.’  Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’”    John 21:17

Have you ever needed a second chance?  Jesus’ disciple Simon Peter sure did.  On Jesus’ way to his crucifixion and death Peter denied him three times.  Listen as  Debra Johnston talks about John 21:1-18  where Jesus gives Peter the ‘second chance’ he did not deserve and could never hope to get.  That’s one of the definitions of grace…that ‘second chance’  we don’t  deserve.

For in [Christ] every one of God’s promises is a “Yes.” For this reason it is through him that we say the “Amen,” to the glory of God.
2 Corinthians 18:20

Ever been let down by someone who should have made good on a promise? Maybe even a pastor or a church? In this classic Trinity message from February 19, 2006, Pastor Steve looks at 2 Corinthians 1:18-22. What does it tell us about how our promises are different from God’s? And why does it matter?

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay…  Suddenly Jesus met them…”
- Matthew 28:5-6, 9

Meeting Jesus again meant that everything he had taught them was true. We’ve all heard about Jesus. Some of us have met him before and decided that his message didn’t matter for us. What can he really do anyway?  Or maybe we’re just not feeling it right now. Want to meet him again? (See Matthew 28:1-10 for today’s reading.)

“Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, ‘Truly this man was God’s Son!’” – Matthew 27:54

Have you ever wondered what the cross really means? Why it was necessary? Or how the Son of God could die a shameful death? Pastor Steve Whitney talks about those questions and more in this week’s message on Matthew 27:11-54, “On the cross for me?!?“

 “Gideon made an ephod of it and put it in his town, in Ophrah; and all Israel prostituted themselves to it there, and it became a snare to Gideon and to his family.”
– Judges 8:27

After an amazing victory by God’s strength along, Gideon ended up setting himself up to be worshipped.  How did such a promising leader get so far off course?  What went wrong?  And how can we avoid making similar mistakes?  Listen to find out!

“Then Gideon took the elders of the town and taught them a lesson, punishing them with thorns and briers from the wilderness.  He also tore down the tower of Peniel and killed all the men in town.”
- Judges 8:16-17

Have you ever felt like “teaching someone a lesson?”  Listen on as Debra Johnston explores Judges 8:1-21.  It is pretty difficult for human beings to know just exactly what the justice of God might look like.  Maybe that’s the point: maybe only God knows!  How can we let go of the things that have hurt us so that God can mete out his justice in his perfect timing?

“When they blew the three hundred trumpets, the LORD set every man’s sword against his fellow and against all the army; and the army fled ” Judges 7:22

Do you ever wonder what God is up to? How the pieces will every possibly fit together? Me too. I’ll bet Gideon wondered that also. How can we deal with the frustration of the many, seemly unrelated parts of what will later prove to be God’s plan? Then be sure to listen!

“That same night the LORD said to [Gideon], ‘Get up, attack the camp; for I have given it into your hand.  But if you fear to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah; and you shall hear what they say, and afterward your hands shall be strengthened to attack the camp.’”  – Judges 7:9-11

Gideon’s in an impossible situation, but God had a plan and was willing to let Gideon in on it.  Does God still have a plan?  Can we get a sneak peak into what God is doing in our lives?

“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness,  where for forty days he was tempted by the devil.”  – Luke 4:1-2a

The devil gave Jesus some pretty tempting offers, but he resisted.  How did he do it?  Is the devil still tempting us?  Why is it so important not to give in?  Listen to find out!

“The LORD said to Gideon, “The troops with you are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand. Israel would only take the credit away from me, saying, ‘My own hand has delivered me.’”  - Judges 7:2

Gideon gathered an army of 32,000 to deliver his people from oppression.  But God sent 31,700 of them home. God said they’d take the credit if they had a big army – instead of giving the glory and honor to God.  Where do you think we take credit for God’s work in our lives?

Gideon has seen a sign from God already, but he asks for two more. Why does Gideon need more assurance of God’s faithfulness and God’s call? How do we know that God is there for us?

The people ask for deliverance from the oppression of Midian, and God sends someone to tear down an altar… Could this be what we need too? What idols could we be worshipping? Do we need to tear down their altars to receive God’s blessing? We’ll explore those questions in this message.

Have you ever told God you were the wrong person for the job? What do you think held you back…was it lack of confidence or maybe fear of burnout? Gideon had the same problem. How can we find the courage to accept the call of God on our lives?

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“The Israelites did what was evil in the sight of the LORD, and the LORD gave them into the hand of Midian seven years… Thus Israel was greatly impoverished because of Midian; and the Israelites cried out to the LORD for help. ” -Judges 6:1,6

Why would God abandon the Chosen People? Or is that actually what happened? Is there still hope for us in the 21st century when it seems that our relationship with God is on the skids?

“So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:8

How did the Apostle Paul and his companions share the gospel? Is it still effective in the 21st century? How can we do it? Listen to find out.

“When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” –Matthew 2:10-11

The Wise Men dropped everything to go and seek Jesus. When they found him, the gave him their treasure and bowed before him in worship. As Christians, how are we doing at following their example?

Lessons from the Wise Men

• Seek Jesus
• Go out of your way to find him
• Bow before him
• Offer him valuable gifts
• Follow God’s instructions
• Don’t be deceived by “Herod” – those in power, the establishment, the culture around us

Simeon recognized Jesus, praised God, and responded. How did he know? Who recognizes Jesus now? How do they/we respond to him and his call on our lives?

What is the Bible?  Where did it come from?  What is its purpose?  Can we trust it?  The book, The Da Vinci Code, casts a lot of doubt on the Bible.  Is it warranted?  We investigate the issue in this message.