The Soldier, the Athlete, and the Farmer

Notes: The Soldier, the Athlete, and the Farmer
2 Timothy 2
SPEAKER:
Jonathan Laurie
WORSHIP TEAM:
Harvest Worship Band
Thursday, June 23, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

We are all in need of more discipline in our lives.

So much of our successes and failures in life are based on our own self-discipline.

2 Timothy 2:1-8 NLT
[1] Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. [2] You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. [3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] Soldiers don't get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. [5] And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules. [6] And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. [7] Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. [8] Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach.

Paul is writing to a young Timothy while Timothy was pastoring a church as a young man.

Timothy needed encouragement and a reminder to be strong through the faith of Jesus Christ.

We don't have to lean on our own strength, we have the help of Christ Jesus.

1. The Soldier
2 Timothy 2:3-4 NLT
[3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] Soldiers don't get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them.

As a soldier, you never stop being a soldier. Even if you are not actually at work. You still have to see the world and approach as a soldier.

Ephesians 6:10-17 NLT
[10] A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. [12] For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

The body armor of God prepares a soldier.

2 Timothy 2:3 NLT
[3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

The more faithful you become to Jesus Christ, the more hardships that will come your way. As a soldier of Christ we are in battle against the devil.

Matthew 6:24 NLT
[24] "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

2. The Athlete

2 Timothy 2:5 NLT
[5] And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules.

"I could of been a contender." Think of that the next time you are indulging in a sin disqualifying yourselves.

To compete, you must meet the requirements.

1. we must be citizens of Heaven.
2. Live according to Christ's standards and discipleship.
3. be faithful in study and following Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NLT
[26] So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. [27] I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

Don't disqualify yourself so that you might proclaim the name of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 4:9-11 NLT
[9] Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), [10] the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say, [11] "You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased."

3. The Farmer

2 Timothy 2:6 NLT
[6] And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor.

God brings the increase.

1 Corinthians 3:6-9 NLT
[6] I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. [7] It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. [8] The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. [9] For we are both God's workers. And you are God's field. You are God's building.

Planting a seed, sharing the Gospel with someone for the first time, answering a question is all faithful service.

2 Timothy 2:22 NLT
[22] Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.

2 Timothy 4:7 NLT
[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.

The Soldier, the Athlete, and the Farmer

Notes: The Soldier, the Athlete, and the Farmer
2 Timothy 2
SPEAKER:
Jonathan Laurie
WORSHIP TEAM:
Harvest Worship Band
Thursday, June 23, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

We are all in need of more discipline in our lives.

So much of our successes and failures in life are based on our own self-discipline.

2 Timothy 2:1-8 NLT
[1] Timothy, my dear son, be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus. [2] You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. [3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] Soldiers don't get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them. [5] And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules. [6] And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor. [7] Think about what I am saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. [8] Always remember that Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, was raised from the dead. This is the Good News I preach.

Paul is writing to a young Timothy while Timothy was pastoring a church as a young man.

Timothy needed encouragement and a reminder to be strong through the faith of Jesus Christ.

We don't have to lean on our own strength, we have the help of Christ Jesus.

1. The Soldier
2 Timothy 2:3-4 NLT
[3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. [4] Soldiers don't get tied up in the affairs of civilian life, for then they cannot please the officer who enlisted them.

As a soldier, you never stop being a soldier. Even if you are not actually at work. You still have to see the world and approach as a soldier.

Ephesians 6:10-17 NLT
[10] A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. [12] For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

The body armor of God prepares a soldier.

2 Timothy 2:3 NLT
[3] Endure suffering along with me, as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

The more faithful you become to Jesus Christ, the more hardships that will come your way. As a soldier of Christ we are in battle against the devil.

Matthew 6:24 NLT
[24] "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

2. The Athlete

2 Timothy 2:5 NLT
[5] And athletes cannot win the prize unless they follow the rules.

"I could of been a contender." Think of that the next time you are indulging in a sin disqualifying yourselves.

To compete, you must meet the requirements.

1. we must be citizens of Heaven.
2. Live according to Christ's standards and discipleship.
3. be faithful in study and following Christ.

1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NLT
[26] So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. [27] I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified.

Don't disqualify yourself so that you might proclaim the name of Jesus Christ.

Revelation 4:9-11 NLT
[9] Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), [10] the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say, [11] "You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased."

3. The Farmer

2 Timothy 2:6 NLT
[6] And hardworking farmers should be the first to enjoy the fruit of their labor.

God brings the increase.

1 Corinthians 3:6-9 NLT
[6] I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. [7] It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grow. [8] The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. [9] For we are both God's workers. And you are God's field. You are God's building.

Planting a seed, sharing the Gospel with someone for the first time, answering a question is all faithful service.

2 Timothy 2:22 NLT
[22] Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.

2 Timothy 4:7 NLT
[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.

The Real Man's Man

Notes: The Real Man's Man

Father's Day Message

SPEAKER: Michael Franzese

WORSHIP TEAM:

Harvest Worship Band

Sunday, June 19, 2016 — 10:00 a.m.

Michael Franzese is a former mob don. He spent 8 years in prison and over 3 years in the hole. That is when he found his faith in Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ is the greatest example of being a good father. Jesus Christ is a real man's man.

Michael is here to share what God has done in his life.

For over 20 years he was a knowing and willing sinner. He would still be in prison if it wasn't for God in his life.

If your purpose in life is to bring one person to the Lord, then your life has a great purpose!

The entire message of the Bible is about forgiveness.

God forgives all of us as soon as we put our faith in Jesus Christ.

God uses circumstances in our life, even the bad ones. We gain credibility with the people who are currently struggling in our former circumstances.

God can not only transform a heart, He can transform a mind!

Most of the kids Michael met in prison and when he is out speaking, don't have fathers in the home.

The best message you can give your kids is that you are who you hang out with.

We must surround ourselves with good people.

We owe it to our kids to put them in the right environment.

Michaels dad, Sonny, is 99 years old. He is the oldest man in prison in the country, he is set to be released next year at the age of 100.

The actual crime his dad was convicted of, Michael says he didn't actually do it. The system is not always fair, but when you do bad things, it will catch up to you somehow.

We will all still sin, the Bible says we will all fail at times and God will still accept us back.

The evidence is there, Jesus is the only way! Research the evidence and you will find your faith in God.

Do the work to find out whether the Bible is truth, and you will find God...Jesus will come alive in your life.

If you want to be a real man, you want to be a better person, father, husband, boss, employees, then emulate Jesus Christ.

Jesus has your back.

Can We Have Revival in Our Time?

Notes: Can We Have Revival in Our Time?
Jonah 2
SPEAKER:
Greg Laurie
Sunday, June 12, 2016 — 10:00 a.m.

What is it going to take to wake up our country?

We just had the worst attack yesterday in Orlando, FL since 9/11. 50 people killed.

Jonah 2 describes the largest revival in the Bible.

America can be compared to Israel, we both were founded on Biblical principles.

America needs an awakening. The church needs a revival.

1. What is revival?
Means to bring back to life.

We don't want to admit that we are asleep. Like when you dose off in a meeting or at a movie. We wake up, yet deny the sleep.

Everywhere the apostle Paul went there was either a riot or revival.

2. Biblical preaching can bring revival.

The book of Jonah proves this. Jonah didn't want to preach to the people of Nineveh because he knew God would save them.

Nineveh was a population of about 1,000,000. They were the most powerful people of the time.

Jonah ran from his duty to preach. God brought a storm to the boat Jonah was on. Then God had a sea monster swallow him. Then Jonah had a personal revival in the belly of the fish.

Jonah 2:1-3,7-10 NKJV
[1] Then Jonah prayed to the LORD his God from the fish's belly. [2] And he said: "I cried out to the LORD because of my affliction, And He answered me. "Out of the belly of Sheol I cried, And You heard my voice. [3] For You cast me into the deep, Into the heart of the seas, And the floods surrounded me; All Your billows and Your waves passed over me. [7] "When my soul fainted within me, I remembered the LORD; And my prayer went up to You, Into Your holy temple. [8] "Those who regard worthless idols Forsake their own Mercy. [9] But I will sacrifice to You With the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay what I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD." [10] So the LORD spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.

3. We often make the topic of revival to mysterious.

1. Let a few Christians get thoroughly right with God.
2. Let them commit to the prayer for revival to God opens the window of Heaven and comes down.
3. Let them put themselves at the disposal of God.

Jonah 3:4-10 NKJV
[4] And Jonah began to enter the city on the first day's walk. Then he cried out and said, "Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!" [5] So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them. [6] Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. [7] And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; do not let them eat, or drink water. [8] But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. [9] Who can tell if God will turn and relent, and turn away from His fierce anger, so that we may not perish? [10] Then God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God relented from the disaster that He had said He would bring upon them, and He did not do it.

What a stunning awakening...God spared them.

4. A revived person will be an evangelistic person.

Most people are introduced to Christianity by people that have been believers for two years or less.

5. Even revived people need reviving again.

Jonah 4:1-4 NLT
[1] This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry. [2] So he complained to the LORD about it: "Didn't I say before I left home that you would do this, LORD? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people. [3] Just kill me now, LORD! I'd rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen." [4] The LORD replied, "Is it right for you to be angry about this?"

Jonah was angry that judgement didn't come.

The problem with Jonah was he preoccupied with himself.

You worry about new believers that aren't changing fast enough, yet you should be worried about older believers that have stopped changing.

Jonah 4:5-11 NLT
[5] Then Jonah went out to the east side of the city and made a shelter to sit under as he waited to see what would happen to the city. [6] And the LORD God arranged for a leafy plant to grow there, and soon it spread its broad leaves over Jonah's head, shading him from the sun. This eased his discomfort, and Jonah was very grateful for the plant. [7] But God also arranged for a worm! The next morning at dawn the worm ate through the stem of the plant so that it withered away. [8] And as the sun grew hot, God arranged for a scorching east wind to blow on Jonah. The sun beat down on his head until he grew faint and wished to die. "Death is certainly better than living like this!" he exclaimed. [9] Then God said to Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?" "Yes," Jonah retorted, "even angry enough to die!" [10] Then the LORD said, "You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. [11] But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?"

That must of been a big worm! 

Jonah was like the older brother in the story of the Prodigal Son.

Luke 15:25-32 NLT
[25] "Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, [26] and he asked one of the servants what was going on. [27] 'Your brother is back,' he was told, 'and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.' [28] "The older brother was angry and wouldn't go in. His father came out and begged him, [29] but he replied, 'All these years I've slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. [30] Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!' [31] "His father said to him, 'Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. [32] We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!'"

Galatians 6:1 NLT
[1] Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.

We all have a Nineveh that we are called to. 

Jonah wrote the book of Jonah, even Jonah 4.

Jonah 4:9-11 NLT
[9] Then God said to Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry because the plant died?" "Yes," Jonah retorted, "even angry enough to die!" [10] Then the LORD said, "You feel sorry about the plant, though you did nothing to put it there. It came quickly and died quickly. [11] But Nineveh has more than 120,000 people living in spiritual darkness, not to mention all the animals. Shouldn't I feel sorry for such a great city?"

Revival is getting back to the Christian life as it is meant to be lived.

Your love can grow deeper and stronger for the Lord.

2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT
[14] Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

God sent his healing and he can do the same for you.

How to Know the Will of God

Notes: How to Know the Will of God
Romans 12
SPEAKER:
Greg Laurie
WORSHIP TEAM:
Harvest Worship Band
Sunday, May 29, 2016 — 8:00 a.m.

Jeremiah 18:1-4 NLT
[1] The LORD gave another message to Jeremiah. He said, [2] "Go down to the potter's shop, and I will speak to you there." [3] So I did as he told me and found the potter working at his wheel. [4] But the jar he was making did not turn out as he had hoped, so he crushed it into a lump of clay again and started over.

God plants us, if we don't stay planted we will not grow as a Christian.

Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
[11] For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Gods will for you is better than your plans for yourself.

The just will live by faith...not feeling.

Be obedient to what you know is the will of God for you right now.

1. Be filled with the Holy Spirit
Ephesians 5:18-19 NLT
[18] Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, [19] singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.

God wants to fill our sails and permeate everything we do.

2. Have an attitude of gratitude 

1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT
[18] Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Be thankful that God is in control.

There are lots of things that can bum is out... But we can still be thankful that He is good.

3. Live a pure life

1 Thessalonians 4:3 NLT
[3] God's will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin.

Don't live an immoral life.

The Lord will never speak to you in a way that will clearly contradict the Bible.

Romans 12:1-2 NLT
[1] And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. [2] Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

1. Present yourself to Him.

We should not choose to remember what God has chosen to forget.

What do we present to God? Everything!

Present all your thoughts to God.

THINK before you speak. Is it...
Truthful 
Helpful
Inspiring 
Necessary 
Kind

2. Don't be conformed to this world. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Romans 12:2 NLT
[2] Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

God is speaking of the culture not the planet.

Do not try to be something that you are not.

Don't be a poser or a wannabe.

We need to wash our brains with the word of God.

God's will is good.

God wants to do good things in our lives.

How do you know God's will for your life:

1. He speaks through the word of God.

All scripture is breathed by God.

2. God speaks to us through circumstances.

If God is leading me...he will confirm it.

3. He speaks to us though His peace.

Colossians 3:15 NLT
[15] And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Base your decisions on God's word.

Jesus came to earth on a rescue mission 2 thousand years ago.

Under the Influence

Notes: Under the Influence

Mark 5

SPEAKER:

Pancho Juarez

Thursday, May 26, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

In negative ethical situations, we get to see the positive and negative sides of society.

The effect of exercising moral powers.

We don't have to tell people we are Christians, they will smell us out.

People don't believe there will be a judgement, yet the Bible speaks of it a lot.

1. The judgement of God is imminent.

2. The judgement of God will be fair.

Romans 2:1-29 NKJV

[1] Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. [2] But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. [3] And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? [4] Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? [5] But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, [6] who "will render to each one according to his deeds": [7] eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; [8] but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness-indignation and wrath, [9] tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; [10] but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. [11] For there is no partiality with God. [12] For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law [13] (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; [14] for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, [15] who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) [16] in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. [17] Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, [18] and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, [19] and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, [20] an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law. [21] You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? [22] You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? [23] You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? [24] For "the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," as it is written. [25] For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. [26] Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision? [27] And will not the physically uncircumcised, if he fulfills the law, judge you who, even with your written code and circumcision, are a transgressor of the law? [28] For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; [29] but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.

The Jews had the law, but there are those who did not have the law. There is natural law, that is your conscience.

God will judge you based on the amount of light that you know.

We learn what God means when we study our Bible.

The Samaritan woman at the well, would not have known all the laws of the Jews. They would of had completely different laws and view of the world.

The Good Samaritan shows an example of natural law.

Ephesians 2:14-18 NKJV

[14] For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, [15] having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, [16] and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity. [17] And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near. [18] For through Him we both have access by one Spirit to the Father.

The commonality of the church is Christ.

Galatians 3:27-29 NKJV

[27] For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. [28] There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. [29] And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

We are to be known as Christians by our love.

We are to defend people that cannot defend themselves.

If you are not a Christian then you are existing but you are not living for the purpose you were born.

Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV

[11] For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 38:1-6 NKJV

[1] Now Shephatiah the son of Mattan, Gedaliah the son of Pashhur, Jucal the son of Shelemiah, and Pashhur the son of Malchiah heard the words that Jeremiah had spoken to all the people, saying, [2] "Thus says the LORD: 'He who remains in this city shall die by the sword, by famine, and by pestilence; but he who goes over to the Chaldeans shall live; his life shall be as a prize to him, and he shall live.' [3] Thus says the LORD: 'This city shall surely be given into the hand of the king of Babylon's army, which shall take it.'" [4] Therefore the princes said to the king, "Please, let this man be put to death, for thus he weakens the hands of the men of war who remain in this city, and the hands of all the people, by speaking such words to them. For this man does not seek the welfare of this people, but their harm." [5] Then Zedekiah the king said, "Look, he is in your hand. For the king can do nothing against you." [6] So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the king's son, which was in the court of the prison, and they let Jeremiah down with ropes. And in the dungeon there was no water, but mire. So Jeremiah sank in the mire.

Ebed-Melech is introduced:

Jeremiah 38:7-9 NKJV

[7] Now Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian, one of the eunuchs, who was in the king's house, heard that they had put Jeremiah in the dungeon. When the king was sitting at the Gate of Benjamin, [8] Ebed-Melech went out of the king's house and spoke to the king, saying: [9] "My lord the king, these men have done evil in all that they have done to Jeremiah the prophet, whom they have cast into the dungeon, and he is likely to die from hunger in the place where he is. For there is no more bread in the city."

Ebed-Melech has natural law and moral courage to speak up for Jeremiah. He saved Jeremiah, when there were others there that should have been protecting Jeremiah.

God's Plan for the Family

Notes: God's Plan for the Family

Ephesians 6

SPEAKER:

Greg Laurie

WORSHIP TEAM:

Harvest Worship Band

SERIES:

Home Sweet Home

Sunday, May 8, 2016 — 12:00 p.m.

When it's all said and done its the mother that is more important than any statesman or soldier.

Proverbs 31:28-30 NLT

[28] Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: [29] "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!" [30] Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised.

Ephesians 6:1-3 NLT

[1] Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. [2] "Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise: [3] If you honor your father and mother, "things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth."

It's a good reminder of how we need a father and mother. We aren't to be our kids Best Friend, we are to be their Parents.

The most important role of a parent is to lead them to Christ.

Psalm 127:3-5 NLT

[3] Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. [4] Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior's hands. [5] How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.

Our pop culture undermines the family. 

Ephesians 6:1-2 NLT

[1] Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. [2] "Honor your father and mother." This is the first commandment with a promise:

For many, Mothers Day is a tough time. It could be because of a loss or the relationship. 

Many moms are left standing in the gap because the father is not doing their role.

Ephesians 6:4 NLT

[4] Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

In many ways, the view your children will have about God is based on how fathers treat their children.

Fathers are a visual representation of God the Father to children.

You need to do your job as a father or as the mother... Do your job.

1. Don't provoke your children to wrath.

A. One way we provoke our children is to show favoritism.

Joseph was favored by his father, Jacob. His brothers sold him to slavery.

B. Another way to provoke your children is by never complimenting them.

C. You can go too far, over praising and spoiling your children

Helicopter parenting.

2. Bring them up in the training and admiration of the Lord.

Proverbs 29:15 NLT

[15] To discipline a child produces wisdom, but a mother is disgraced by an undisciplined child.

We need to bring them up because their sinful nature is bringing them down.

Nothing can happen through us until it happens to us.

Proverbs 4:4 NLT

[4] My father taught me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live.

Proverbs 4:5 NLT

[5] Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don't forget my words or turn away from them.

Deuteronomy 6:4-7 NLT

[4] "Listen, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone. [5] And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. [6] And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. [7] Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up.

Talk to your children about the Lord.

Instead of isolating your child, prepare them for the real world.

Watch tv WITH your child.

Create a thirst in your child to want to find the Lord.

The way he should go means, "according to their bent."

Let parents be the parents, grandparents get to spoil the grandkids.

To have your kids go astray does not mean you are a failure. God has many that have gone astray.

The prodigal son is a perfect example of what many children will do regardless of how they were raised. They may return as they grow up.

3. You don't compromise and never give up. 

The children may leave the home, but they can never escape your prayers.

We must keep the door open to our children regardless if they go prodigal.

Your children need to know that you love them.

If you have made mistakes in the past, you can still positively change your present and future.... Start by apologizing.

We all need Jesus Christ.  

Can We Have Revival in Our Time?

Notes: Can We Have Revival in Our Time?

2 Chronicles 7:14

SPEAKER:

Pastor Greg Laurie shares a special message for the National Day of Prayer.

Thursday, May 5, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

The first step of Gods great movements have been prayer. It's time to beg God for an awakening.

Prayer can change things.

Can we have another revival in our life time or are the best days of America behind us?

In the last days in the Bible there is an absence of America. Why isn't America there? Super powers of the past have all started and ended. 

America may not be in scripture because a major revival may take place. If the rapture occurs we could all disappear.

Today is the national day of prayer. 

We have had four great awakenings in American history. In the 1700s there was an awakening. In the 1800s there was the tent awakenings. In the late 1800s in New York was an awakening. Then in the 1970s there was the Jesus Movement in Southern California. 

The late 60s was a bleak time compared to the 50s. In the 50s America was very optimistic. The radical 60s seemed to start when Kennedy was assassinated, then the Vietnam War was going on, MLK Jr was assassinated, Bobby Kennedy was killed, Watergate was about to happen.

The younger generation didn't see a lot of hope. The drug movement was starting up. 

Then the Jesus Movement started. The people it touched were changed for ever.

Chuck Smith and Lonnie Frisbee were working together during that time. In that time Greg came to his faith.

During the Jesus Movement when you went to church certain things were in place:

1. There was a sense of expectancy in the services.

You could sense God's presence.

2. The Word of God was always taught.

3. People participated in the worship.

4. People brought nonbelievers to church and invitations were extended.

5. There was a belief in and teaching of the soon return of Jesus.

Jesus' coming has never been closer.

Psalm 85:6 NLT

[6] Won't you revive us again, so your people can rejoice in you?

Habakkuk 3:2 NLT

[2] I have heard all about you, LORD. I am filled with awe by your amazing works. In this time of our deep need, help us again as you did in years gone by. And in your anger, remember your mercy.

Let's pray God does another revival.

Sometimes calamity is the best back drop for a revival. When people get desperate they will start to look up.

We can start with prayer right now, just pray...right here right now...take a minute and pray.

Revival is waking from sleep.

Revival may only be temporary, but so is a bath and it does you a lot of good.

Revival starts with the church and then affects the world.

Revival is just being a New Testament Christian.

Today most of us are settling for a watered down version of the Christian life. 

Revival is just getting back to the Christian life as it was meant to be lived.

As revival spreads across a nation, it will change the moral climate of a community.

Joel 2:28-29 NLT

[28] "Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams, and your young men will see visions. [29] In those days I will pour out my Spirit even on servants-men and women alike.

We need an outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT

[14] Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

Remember that verse...as important to remember as John 3:16.

When God points His finger He does not point at the government. God looks at His church.

2 Corinthians 13:5 NLT

[5] Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.

If I don't see fruit in a persons life, I have to wonder if they are Christians.

1. If we want to see revival we need to humble ourselves and pray! "If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray..."

In contrast to conventional thinking, Jesus said we must deny ourselves.

Matthew 16:24-25 NLT

[24] Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. [25] If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.

The Bible tells us one of the very signs of the last days is self-love.

2 Timothy 3:1-2 NLT

[1] You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. [2] For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.

2. Judge yourself habitually...asking, am I as strong of a Christian as I could be.

Philippians 3:13 NLT

[13] No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead,

Make every effort to move forward in every way.

Don't ever give up on your prayers for the salvation of others.

Acts 12:5 NLT

[5] But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.

Our secret weapons as a Christian are prayer and preaching.

3. If we want to see revival there must be repentance from all known sin.

All the praying in the world will not help you if you are living in sin.

Isaiah 59:1-2 NLT

[1] Listen! The LORD's arm is not too weak to save you, nor is his ear too deaf to hear you call. [2] It's your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, he has turned away and will not listen anymore.

To try and pray and live in known sin, is like hanging up the phone to Heaven. Service can be restored, you have to turn from your sin.

You may turn from many sins, but not doing what you know you should be doing can be sin as well.

R.A. Torrey's Prescription for Revival

1. Let a few Christians, they need not be many, get thoroughly right with God.

2. Let them commit themselves to pray for revival until God opens the windows of Heaven and comes down.

3. Let them put themselves at the disposal of God for His use as He sees fit in winning others to Christ.

That's all, it can't fail.

A revived Christian has been cleaned up by God and blessed by Him.

God wants to bless you, He loves to do it.

Psalm 84:11 NLT

[11] For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.

Start doing what is right, God wants to forgive you of all of your sins.

How to Get a New Husband

Notes: How to Get a New Husband

SPEAKER:

Greg Laurie

1 Peter 3

WORSHIP TEAM:

Harvest Worship Band

SERIES:

Home Sweet Home

Sunday, May 1, 2016 — 10:00 a.m.

What's the role of women in the marriage?

Women are a mystery to men, and sometimes women are a mystery to women. Only God knows all of our ways.

"New and Improved" have been discovered as good words to get sales up on a product. Many times the only thing new and improved is the logo.

Marriages can be looked at by many as needing to be new and improved. That's not what we should be looking for, we should be maintaining a classic!

How to get a new and improved husband:

To get a new husband, maybe you need to start out as a new wife!

1 Peter 3:1-4 NLT

[1] In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over [2] by observing your pure and reverent lives. [3] Don't be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. [4] You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.

1. Be the best version of you that you can be.

Proverbs 31:1-31 NLT

[1] The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him. [2] O my son, O son of my womb, O son of my vows, [3] do not waste your strength on women, on those who ruin kings. [4] It is not for kings, O Lemuel, to guzzle wine. Rulers should not crave alcohol. [5] For if they drink, they may forget the law and not give justice to the oppressed. [6] Alcohol is for the dying, and wine for those in bitter distress. [7] Let them drink to forget their poverty and remember their troubles no more. [8] Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. [9] Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice. [10] Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies. [11] Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. [12] She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. [13] She finds wool and flax and busily spins it. [14] She is like a merchant's ship, bringing her food from afar. [15] She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day's work for her servant girls. [16] She goes to inspect a field and buys it; with her earnings she plants a vineyard. [17] She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. [18] She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night. [19] Her hands are busy spinning thread, her fingers twisting fiber. [20] She extends a helping hand to the poor and opens her arms to the needy. [21] She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes. [22] She makes her own bedspreads. She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. [23] Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with the other civic leaders. [24] She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants. [25] She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. [26] When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness. [27] She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness. [28] Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: [29] "There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!" [30] Charm is deceptive, and beauty does not last; but a woman who fears the LORD will be greatly praised. [31] Reward her for all she has done. Let her deeds publicly declare her praise.

Magazines don't talk about you being more beautiful on the inside...most often they speak of outward beauty.

The Godly woman focuses primarily on the internal but does not forget the external.

The Bible does not forbid a woman from being attractive. The balance needs to be found.

Being sloppy and unkept is not a virtue.

Bodily exercise has some value as stated in the Bible.

2. Respect your man

Ephesians 5:33 NLT

[33] So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.

Wives need love and husbands need respect.

Men are emotional as well... "Jesus wept."

Do your part in the marriage "read your own mail."

Don't wait to feel loved to be loving and don't wait till you feel respected to be respectful.

3. Submit to the leadership of your husband.

1 Peter 3:1-2 NLT

[1] In the same way, you wives must accept the authority of your husbands. Then, even if some refuse to obey the Good News, your godly lives will speak to them without any words. They will be won over [2] by observing your pure and reverent lives.

In today's society we don't want to submit to anybody. We are all called to submit to God.

Ephesians 5:21 NLT

[21] And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

To submit, is a military term.

Galatians 3:28 NLT

[28] There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.

1 Corinthians 11:3 NLT

[3] But there is one thing I want you to know: The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.

We are all one under Christ, yet we all have different jobs and roles.

The husband is to model the way that God loves the Church. The wife is called to model the way the Church is to love God.

Proverbs 31:11-12,26 NLT

[11] Her husband can trust her, and she will greatly enrich his life. [12] She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. [26] When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.

It's much easier for a Godly woman to follow a Godly man.

A wife should even submit to the nonbeliever husband, however you should not submit to anything that is against the authority of the Bible.

God is the ultimate authority, you do not submit to anything that is contrary to God's word.

Women are more communal and interdependent than men are.

Women can win a man over to Christ without using a word, by living a Godly life.

When you do not want to make a decision on your own about  something...pray!

Put your relationship with your spouse above your relationship with your children. Keeping your marriage strong and vibrant is the best gift you can give your children.

The Bible is always right, in life and marriage. If you disagree with what the Bible says, you will ultimately find out that you are wrong.

The Bible is always right, that is why it is so important to correctly understand what it says.