Tis' The Season (Becoming Ant Man)

Notes: Tis' The Season (Becoming Ant Man)

Proverbs 30

SPEAKER:

Levi Lusko

WORSHIP TEAM:

Harvest Worship Band

Thursday, July 14, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

Proverbs 30:25 NKJV

[25] The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their food in the summer;

An old saying "don't sweat the small stuff", that can be good advice in some scenarios. But in some scenarios that can be deadly advice.

The space shuttles that exploded, exploded because of very small issues .

Luke 16:10 NKJV

[10] He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.

If we take care of the quality of our minutes, we can trust God to take care of the years.

We need to do the small things for the Lord, the things that no one else sees. God sees it!

God keeps track of those who get the assist.

Small tactical activity can lead to large breakthroughs.

Agur speaks of four things that are small but are exceedingly wise...

Proverbs 30:24-28 NKJV

[24] There are four things which are little on the earth, But they are exceedingly wise: [25] The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their food in the summer; [26] The rock badgers are a feeble folk, Yet they make their homes in the crags; [27] The locusts have no king, Yet they all advance in ranks; [28] The spider skillfully grasps with its hands, And it is in kings' palaces.

There are a million trillion ants in this world. There is 1.5 million ants per person on this planet.

Ants can lift 50 times their body weight.

Ants understand the power of teamwork. Even ant holes are the same size of a soldier ant's head.

Proverbs 30:25 NKJV

[25] The ants are a people not strong, Yet they prepare their food in the summer;

They do something when it is not winter, so that they have it when it is winter.

Proverbs 6:6 NKJV

[6] Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise,

Proverbs 6:8 NKJV

[8] Provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest.

If we are to become Ant Man:

1. We need to learn to Understand Seasons

They are unavoidable and somewhat predictable.

Genesis 8:22 NKJV

[22] "While the earth remains, Seedtime and harvest, Cold and heat, Winter and summer, And day and night Shall not cease."

Seasons are unavoidable! Yet they are predictable.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NKJV

[1] To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven: [2] A time to be born, And a time to die;A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted; [3] A time to kill, And a time to heal;A time to break down, And a time to build up; [4] A time to weep, And a time to laugh;A time to mourn, And a time to dance; [5] A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones;A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing; [6] A time to gain, And a time to lose;A time to keep, And a time to throw away; [7] A time to tear, And a time to sew;A time to keep silence, And a time to speak; [8] A time to love, And a time to hate;A time of war, And a time of peace.

To everything there are seasons.

Every season has a strength and a struggle, a blessing and a burden.

2. Diagnose Your Season

The sooner you can diagnose, the sooner you can adapt.

We need to access our season to know when to react.

We can keep building our sand castles too close to the break, or we can build it so it doesn't wash away quickly.

What's a small tactical activity you can make that can be a huge breakthrough for you?

Some seasons go quickly and some seem to drag on and on.

David was told he was going to be king, and then everything got worse for years.

Small decisions can bring you into and out of seasons.

No season last forever.

Your favorite season will be coming soon.

Once the season is gone, you will never get that exact same season back.

The season you are in would be greener if you would just water it.

If you get a blessing before its time, it will not become beautiful, it will be a burden when you don't want it.

3. Prepare for coming seasons

An old Chinese proverb: When is the best time to plant a tree? 10 years ago. The second best time is right now.

God at times will give us tomorrow's provision today. We must plan.

We have to become Ant Man, if you want potatoes in the fall, you must plant them now.

This is not just money that we may get today that will get us through tomorrow, it may be spiritual supplies you are given today as well that will get you through tomorrow.

One of the wisest things you can do in this life, is to train for a trial that you are not in now. It may not be for your benefit, but for someone else you care about.

Luke 16:9 NKJV

[9] "And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home.

Use the money you have now to take care of those that will spend time with you in Heaven.

4 Celebrate your season.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 NKJV

[11] He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.

God is up to something and He is doing something. You might not know what it is, but it is for your good.

Trust your God that everything will become beautiful in time.

Philippians 4:11-13 NKJV

[11] Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: [12] I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. [13] I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

No matter what season you are in, tis the season to be jolly...falalalala lalalala

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

Notes: Early to Bed, Early to Rise
1 Thessalonians 4:13
1 Thessalonians 5:1
SPEAKER:
Levi Lusko
WORSHIP TEAM:
Harvest Worship Band
Sunday, July 10, 2016 — 12:00 p.m.

Who can heal America? Jesus Christ!

Of we want to be like God, we won't see skin color, we will see the blood of Jesus Chirst.

Colossians 3:11 NLT
[11] In this new life, it doesn't matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 NKJV
[13] But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. [14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. [15] For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. [16] For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. [18] Therefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 NKJV
[1] But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. [2] For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.

Paul couldn't be with the church in Thessalonica, so he wrote them.

Paul says in almost all letters, the main point. Jesus died, Jesus rose, and Jesus will come again.

John 14:1-3 NKJV
[1] "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. [2] In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.

1,845 mentions in the Bible about the comings of Christ.

The enemy will oppose all the unities of the church.

Every time Paul planted a new church, he was attacked.

Just like in our lives, if we are on the move for Christ, we will be attacked.

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NKJV
[16] For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.

1. Not being clear will lead to unwarranted fear.

Unclear thinking will lead to unnecessary grieving.

The Message puts it like this:
1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 MSG
[13-14] And regarding the question, friends, that has come up about what happens to those already dead and buried, we don't want you in the dark any longer. First off, you must not carry on over them like people who have nothing to look forward to, as if the grave were the last word. Since Jesus died and broke loose from the grave, God will most certainly bring back to life those who died in Jesus.

2. Because of Jesus, death is only temporary.

Our bodies will be raised in power.

The grave is only temporary.

1 Thessalonians 4:14 NKJV
[14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.

Because Christ rose, we can know that the same thing will happen to us.

The Cross of Christ is the payment, and the resurrection of Christ is the receipt. 

Jesus will either come with us or for us.

If you come with Jesus on that day, He is first coming for your body.

If you are still alive when Jesus comes again he will take you and you will be transformed on the spot.

1 Thessalonians 5:10 NKJV
[10] who died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.

2 Corinthians 5:15 NKJV
[15] and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.

Ephesians 2:2 NKJV
[2] in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,

"When"is not the question "what" is.

1 Thessalonians 5:1 NKJV
[1] But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I should write to you.

"You have no need" to know. Get busy doing Gods work now.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 NKJV
[11] that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, [12] that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.

Get to work, go back to your job so people don't need to support you, give back to the world.

Our goal is to get as many people to Heaven as possible. We don't pull back from the world as a church we are to go into the world.

The "what" is the holy living. The "what " is living for the glory of God.

How to and How Not to Pray

Notes: How to and How Not to Pray

Matthew 6

SPEAKER:

Greg Laurie

MUSICAL GUEST:

Steve Amerson

WORSHIP TEAM:

Harvest Worship Band

SERIES:

The Lord's Prayer

Sunday, July 3, 2016 — 8:00 a.m.

We are all looking for certain things in life. God is looking for things too.

1. God is seeking the lost.

Luke 19:10 NKJV

[10] for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost."

Gods heart seeks us, like we seek a lost child.

2. God is seeking true worshippers.

John 4:23 NKJV

[23] But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him.

3. God is seeking spiritual fruit.

Luke 13:7 NKJV

[7] Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, 'Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?'

4. God is seeking people to stand in the gap.

Ezekiel 22:30 NKJV

[30] So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one.

5. God is seeking intercessors.

Isaiah 59:16 NKJV

[16] He saw that there was no man, And wondered that there was no intercessor; Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; And His own righteousness, it sustained Him.

What if it was painful to pray? You should still pray.

Why don't we pray more:

1. We  think we don't have the time.

People check their social media accounts about 17 times a day. 5 hours a day watching tv! 

2. We don't think that prayer is that important.

Jesus spent a lot of time in prayer, He found it important.

Joshua learned how important it was to pray. They forgot God and lost the battle.

3. We think that prayer does not really work.

We need to learn how to pray. We need to pray the way Jesus has taught us.

James 4:2 NKJV

[2] You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask.

Struggles may come and we don't pray for help.

We also need to learn how not to pray:

Matthew 6:5-8 NKJV

[5] "And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. [6] But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. [7] And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. [8] "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

We can actually be sinning while in prayer. Focusing on the one praying and not focusing on who was being prayed to.

God looks upon our heart as we pray. That's why we don't need to memorize prayers, we need to know how to pray.

Some prayers that we teach kids seem almost scary... "If I die before I wake..."

It's possible to "pray" with no thought of God at all.

Luke 18:11 NKJV

[11] The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector.

The Pharisee stood there and praised himself.

Some "pray" to praise themselves, sometimes to gossip, to impress others. Prayers like that go no higher than the ceiling.

The objective of prayer is to get your will in alignment with God's will.

God already knows everything, but you are to petition Him for your needs.

The objective of prayer is not to change God; its to change you.

You don't want to change God, you need to change you.

It's not to inform God, it's to get us closer to God.

Matthew 6:9-14 NKJV

[9] In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. [10] Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. [11] Give us this day our daily bread. [12] And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. [13] And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. [14] "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

First three statements of the Lords Prayer deal with the glory of God, the final verses focus on our needs.

We don't want to think of God as an earthly father, but as the Bible looks at your Heavenly Father.

The word "hallowed" means to, "set apart."

God is set apart in your life, He is Lord over all. 

Can you write "hallowed be thy name" over your life and the actions in your life?

If you can't ask the Lord to bless it then don't do it!

Prayer is not getting my will in Heaven, its getting Gods will on Earth.

1 John 5:14 NKJV

[14] Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

Nothing lies outside the reach of prayer except that which lies outside the will of God.

John 15:7 NKJV

[7] If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.

You can ask for whatever your heart desires... But are you walking in a living communion with God.

If you are in a boat and you throw your rope to the dock, are you pulling the dock to you or you pulling yourself to the dock?

God is like the dock.

Matthew 6:10 NKJV

[10] Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven.

What is the kingdom of God?

It is a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Luke 17:21 NLT

[21] You won't be able to say, 'Here it is!' or 'It's over there!' For the Kingdom of God is already among you."

God is here in our presence. What is your relationship with Him?

Sometimes we mix up God's kingdom with Man's kingdom.

We need to vote with the Kingdom of God in mind. It's the most powerful kingdom and God will reign.

What is "thy Kingdom come":

1. This is a request for the return of Jesus Christ to the earth.

Lord come back to Earth and do it really soon!

Do you want Jesus to return?

2 Peter 3:14 NLT

[14] And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.

2. This is a personal request.

Lord, I give you access to my whole life to do your will.

3. This is a request for the salvation of those that don't know the Lord.

Do not give up on praying for others. Keep praying that the Kingdom will come.

Matthew 7:13 NLT

[13] "You can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way.

God gives us a free will, so pray that God opens the eyes of nonbelievers.

Others can escape our presence, but they cannot escape our prayers.

There is a time to talk and a time to just keep quiet and pray.

Isaiah 53:12 NLT

[12] I will give him the honors of a victorious soldier, because he exposed himself to death. He was counted among the rebels. He bore the sins of many and interceded for rebels.

"Give us this day our daily bread" Matthew 6:11

A Jew during Jesus' time would have bread with every meal.

Jesus was tempted by the Devil to turn a rock into bread.

By praying the prayer for daily bread, you are acknowledging that God owns it. We are dependent on God and He is independent from me.

What we have has all been given to us from God.

Thank God for everything you have.

James 1:17 NLT

[17] Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.

Deuteronomy 8:18 NLT

[18] Remember the LORD your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath.

 

Jesus does not tell us to pray for dessert, but for our necessities.

We should work hard, that is Biblical. It is also one of the things that made our country strong.

Daily bread, not monthly bread. The Lord parcels it out so we can keep going back to Him.

God never gives you less than you need. 

Prayer... What a privilege!

Light in a Very Dark Place

Notes: Light in a Very Dark Place
Revelation 11
SPEAKER:
Greg Laurie
SPECIAL GUEST:
Johnnie Moore
WORSHIP TEAM:
Harvest Worship Band
SERIES:
Book of Revelation
Thursday, June 30, 2016 — 7:00 p.m.

Johnnie Moore wrote the book Defying ISIS. In 60 or more countries in this world it is dangerous to be a Christian.

ISIS has been a "disruptor" in terms of terrorist groups. They make small terrorist attacks, they aren't complex attacks. They are using technology to recruit and train.

We need to pray for the persecuted church.

Isaiah 54:14 NKJV
[14] In righteousness you shall be established; You shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; And from terror, for it shall not come near you.

Samaritans Purse is a great organization to donate too to help the persecuted church around the world.

Paul was a terrorist on the road to Damascus when Jesus appeared to him.

Romans 16:20 NKJV
[20] And the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

This is not the time to shun the Muslim people, it's the time to show them the love of Jesus Christ.

Romans 13:3 NKJV
[3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same.

Johnnie Moore's message was powerful, we need to help our persecuted brothers.

Pastor Greg's message tonight is on Revelation 11.

The Apostle John is now in the story

Revelation 11:1-8 NKJV
[1] Then I was given a reed like a measuring rod. And the angel stood, saying, "Rise and measure the temple of God, the altar, and those who worship there. [2] But leave out the court which is outside the temple, and do not measure it, for it has been given to the Gentiles. And they will tread the holy city underfoot for forty-two months. [3] And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy one thousand two hundred and sixty days, clothed in sackcloth." [4] These are the two olive trees and the two lampstands standing before the God of the earth. [5] And if anyone wants to harm them, fire proceeds from their mouth and devours their enemies. And if anyone wants to harm them, he must be killed in this manner. [6] These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire. [7] When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them. [8] And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

This is set in the End Times of Jerusalem. Jerusalem has experienced 46 sieges and burned down 5 times.

Zechariah 12:3 NKJV
[3] And it shall happen in that day that I will make Jerusalem a very heavy stone for all peoples; all who would heave it away will surely be cut in pieces, though all nations of the earth are gathered against it.

1. Jerusalem must be in Jewish hands. 

2. The Temple must be rebuilt.

It has been destroyed since Jesus said it would be in John's lifetime.

Scripture tells us that the Antichrist will help the Jews rebuild their temple and then he will desecrate it.

The Abomination of Desolation.
2 Thessalonians 2:4 NKJV
[4] who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

The Dome on the Rock is where people used to think that the original Temple was. Now it is believed that it was actually no less than 26 meters away.

God always has his men in the right place.

Revelation 11:6 NKJV
[6] These have power to shut heaven, so that no rain falls in the days of their prophecy; and they have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to strike the earth with all plagues, as often as they desire.

They are most likely Moses and Elijah.

Elijah is known to call down fire from Heaven. Elijah did not die, he was called up to Heaven.

2 Timothy 3:12 NKJV
[12] Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

When you speak God's truth you will be opposed!

Revelation 11:7-8 NKJV
[7] When they finish their testimony, the beast that ascends out of the bottomless pit will make war against them, overcome them, and kill them. [8] And their dead bodies will lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

You are indestructible until God is done with you.

Acts 28:3-5 NKJV
[3] But when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and laid them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat, and fastened on his hand. [4] So when the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, "No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he has escaped the sea, yet justice does not allow to live." [5] But he shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm.

Revelation 11:9 NKJV
[9] Then those from the peoples, tribes, tongues, and nations will see their dead bodies three-and-a-half days, and not allow their dead bodies to be put into graves.

Revelation 11:10 NKJV
[10] And those who dwell on the earth will rejoice over them, make merry, and send gifts to one another, because these two prophets tormented those who dwell on the earth.

The truth is tormenting to some people.

Ironically this is the only time people "rejoice" during the tribulation period.

Revelation 11:11-13 NKJV
[11] Now after the three-and-a-half days the breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and great fear fell on those who saw them. [12] And they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they ascended to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies saw them. [13] In the same hour there was a great earthquake, and a tenth of the city fell. In the earthquake seven thousand people were killed, and the rest were afraid and gave glory to the God of heaven.

God will always have the last word.

Revelation 11:14-19 NKJV
[14] The second woe is past. Behold, the third woe is coming quickly. [15] Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" [16] And the twenty-four elders who sat before God on their thrones fell on their faces and worshiped God, [17] saying: "We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty, The One who is and who was and who is to come, Because You have taken Your great power and reigned. [18] The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, And the time of the dead, that they should be judged, And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints, And those who fear Your name, small and great, And should destroy those who destroy the earth." [19] Then the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His covenant was seen in His temple. And there were lightnings, noises, thunderings, an earthquake, and great hail.

When Gods will succeeds, Gods people rejoice.

Whatever we have on earth is a replica of what is in Heaven. Heaven is the real thing.

Heaven is likened to a city and a country.

Revelation 11:18 NKJV
[18] The nations were angry, and Your wrath has come, And the time of the dead, that they should be judged, And that You should reward Your servants the prophets and the saints, And those who fear Your name, small and great, And should destroy those who destroy the earth."

Most of us are not prophets, but all believers are saints.

There are promises made to all saints.

1 Corinthians 3:8 NKJV
[8] Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.

2 Corinthians 5:10 NKJV
[10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

Getting to Heaven is not based on what I have done for God, it is based on what God has done for us.

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.