Author: Pastor Page

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Sermon Notes: Thankfulness Through Generosity

Sermon Outline: Generosity in the Early Church Acts 4:32-36

Introduction:

Acts Chapter 4 is pivotal in demonstrating the early church’s response to persecution, highlighting the boldness and courage of the apostles in proclaiming the gospel despite opposition. It also illustrates the deep sense of community and mutual support among the believers, setting a precedent for Christian fellowship and communal living.

I. Unity of Heart and Mind (Acts 4:32)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:32‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [32] All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.
  • Explanation: Discuss the deep spiritual and communal unity of the early believers.

Cross References:

  • Ephesians 4:3 Unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
  • ‭‭Ephesians‬ ‭4:2‭-‬3‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [2] Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
  • Psalm 133:1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.

Application: Encouraging the congregation to foster unity in their local church community.

II. The Practice of Sharing (Acts 4:33-34)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:33‭-‬34‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [33] With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all [34] that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales .
  • Explanation: Explore the practice of sharing possessions among the early Christians.

Cross References:

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9 Christ’s example of generosity.
  • Luke 12:33 Jesus’ teaching on selling possessions and giving to the poor.
  • ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭8:9‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [9] For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.

Application: Discussing practical ways to live generously in today’s context.

III. No Needy Persons Among Them (Acts 4:34-35)

  • Explanation: Highlighting how this practice effectively met the needs within the community.

Cross References:

  • James 2:15-16 Faith expressed through caring for others in need.
  • Matthew 25:35-40 Jesus’ teaching on caring for the least of these.

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:34‭-‬36‬ ‭MSG‬‬ [34-36] “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.’

Application: Identifying and addressing the needs within the church and local community.

IV. The Example of Barnabas (Acts 4:36-37)

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭4:36‭-‬37‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [36] Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), [37] sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.
  • Explanation: Focusing on Barnabas as an example of generosity and encouragement.

Cross References:

  • 1 Timothy 6:18-19 Command to do good and to be rich in good deeds.
  • Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have.

Application: Encouraging individuals to be leaders in generosity.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  1. Unity in Diversity: The early church’s unity was foundational to their practice of generosity.
  2. Generosity as a Lifestyle: Their giving was not occasional but a consistent lifestyle choice.
  3. Meeting Needs Builds Community: Generosity strengthened their community, leaving no one in need.
  4. Individual Responsibility: Each member, like Barnabas, played a role in the community’s well-being.
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Baptism

As you prepare for baptism, I wanted to share with you the significance of this step in your spiritual life.

1. The Meaning of Baptism:

Baptism symbolizes your personal faith in Jesus Christ and your commitment to follow Him. It represents the death of your old self and the birth of your new life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

  • ‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭5:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 

2. Baptism as a Commandment:

Jesus Himself was baptized and commanded His followers to be baptized (Matthew 3:13-17, Matthew 28:19-20). It’s an act of obedience, showing your willingness to follow Christ’s example and commands.

  • ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:19‭-‬20‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [19] Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

3. Symbolism of Water Baptism:

Being submerged in water during baptism represents dying with Christ to sin. Rising out of the water symbolizes the resurrection into a new life, as Christ was raised from the dead (Romans 6:3-4).

  • ‭‭Romans‬ ‭6:3‭-‬4‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [3] Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

4. Public Declaration of Faith:

Baptism is a public declaration of your faith and commitment to Christ. It’s an outward expression of the inward change that has occurred in your heart (Acts 2:41).

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:41‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [41] Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

5. Joining the Body of Christ:

Through baptism, you become part of the larger body of Christ, the church. It’s a sign of unity with other believers (1 Corinthians 12:13).

  • ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭12:13‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 

6. The Role of the Holy Spirit:

Baptism also signifies the receipt of the Holy Spirit, who empowers and guides you in your Christian walk (Acts 2:38).

  • ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:38‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [38] Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

We can discuss on Sunday.

Pastor Page

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Happy Thanksgiving

As we embrace the joy of Thanksgiving, let us reflect on the wisdom of Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

May this Thanksgiving be a time for you to strengthen bonds, share Christ’s love, and express heartfelt gratitude within your homes. Embrace each moment with kindness, patience, and understanding, nurturing the unity that Christ calls us to in our families and friendships.

Let us remember to be the bearers of peace and love in every aspect of our lives, especially towards those we hold dear.

Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with love, harmony, and blessings.

In Christ,

Pastor

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Sermon Notes: The Challenges of Practicing Thankfulness

Week 2: The Challenges of Practicing Thankfulness

Theme: Overcoming Obstacles to Thankfulness

Key Scripture:

  • Philippians:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
  • ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6‭-‬7‬ ‭MSG‬‬  [6-7] Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

Sermon Outline: Finding Peace in God – Philippians 4:6-8

Introduction:

  • Brief introduction to the context of Philippians, written by Paul while in prison, yet filled with themes of joy and peace.

I. The Command Against Anxiety (Philippians 4:6a)

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [6] Do not be anxious about anything…

  • Explanation: Discuss the biblical perspective on anxiety and worry.
  • Cross References:
    • Matthew 6:25-34 – Jesus’ teaching on worry.
    • 1 Peter 5:7 – Casting all your anxieties on Him, for He cares for you.
  • ‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭5:6‭-‬7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. [7] Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
  • Application: Practical steps to combat anxiety in daily life.

II. The Power of Prayer and Supplication (Philippians 4:6b)

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6b‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [6] but in every situation, by prayer and petition

  • Explanation: The importance of prayer and supplication in dealing with anxieties.
  • Cross References:
    • Jeremiah 29:12 – Call upon Me and pray to Me, and I will listen.
    • James 5:13 – Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray.
  • Application: Encouraging a consistent and sincere prayer life.

III. The Role of Thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6c)

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:6c‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [6] with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

  • Explanation: How thanksgiving transforms our approach to challenges.
  • Cross References:
    • Colossians 3:17 – Whatever you do, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God.
    • Psalm 100:4 – Enter His gates with thanksgiving.
  • Application: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude.

IV. The Promise of God’s Peace (Philippians 4:7)

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:7‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

  • Explanation: Understanding and embracing the peace of God that transcends understanding.
  • Cross References:
    • John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.
    • Isaiah 26:3 –You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast.
  • Application: Learning to trust in God’s peace in various life situations.

V. The Focus of Our Minds (Philippians 4:8)

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [8] Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:8‭-‬9‬ ‭MSG‬‬ [8-9] Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.

  • Explanation: The importance of guarding our thoughts and focusing on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
  • Cross References:
    • Romans 12:2 – Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
    • 2 Corinthians 10:5 – Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
  • Application: Strategies for renewing the mind according to biblical standards.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  1. Overcoming Anxiety through Faith: Emphasizing reliance on God rather than being consumed by worry.
  2. The Necessity of Prayer and Supplication: Encouraging constant communication with God in times of need.
  3. The Power of Gratitude: How a thankful heart changes perspective.
  4. Embracing God’s Peace: Trusting in God’s peace to guard our hearts and minds.
  5. Guarding Our Thoughts: The importance of focusing on what aligns with God’s word.

Colossians 3:15 – Letting the peace of Christ rule in hearts and being thankful.

  • ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:15‭-‬17‬ ‭MSG‬‬  [15-17] Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.
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Bible Study: Psalm 42

Follow along in your Bible turned to Psalm 42

Psalm 42 is a heartfelt cry of someone who feels spiritually dry and distant from God, expressing deep longing for God’s presence. Here is a synopsis along with relevant scripture cross-references:

1. Deep Longing for God (Psalm 42:1-2): The psalmist compares his thirst for God to a deer panting for streams of water, illustrating a profound spiritual desire. This imagery echoes the spiritual thirst mentioned elsewhere, such as in Psalm 63:1 and Isaiah 41:17.

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭41:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [17] “The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the Lord will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.

2. Feeling of Abandonment (Psalm 42:3, 9-10): The psalmist feels abandoned by God, crying day and night, and faces taunts from others asking, “Where is your God?” This echoes other instances of lament and feelings of abandonment, like in Psalm 22:1 and Matthew 27:46.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭22:1‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?

3. Recalling Better Times (Psalm 42:4): The psalmist remembers times of joyful worship with the crowd, indicating a contrast between his past joy and present distress. The importance of remembering past blessings is a theme also seen in Psalm 77:11-12.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭77:11‭-‬12‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [11] I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. [12] I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”

4. Struggle with Despair (Psalm 42:5-6a, 11): The psalmist questions his soul, asking why it is downcast and disturbed. He encourages himself to hope in God. This reflects the internal struggle and self-encouragement found in other Psalms, like Psalm 43:5.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭43:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [5] Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

5. Feeling Overwhelmed (Psalm 42:7): The imagery of deep calling to deep and the overwhelming waves and breakers symbolize the psalmist’s profound distress, akin to the overwhelming circumstances described in Psalm 69:1-2.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭69:1‭-‬2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. [2] I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me.

6. Affirmation of God’s Steadfast Love (Psalm 42:8): Amidst his turmoil, the psalmist acknowledges God’s unfailing love, a consistent theme throughout the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 36:5).

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭36:5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [5] Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.

7. Pleading for Deliverance and Praise (Psalm 42:9-11): The psalmist questions God and pleads for vindication while expressing hope and praise. This mirrors the mixed feelings of despair and trust seen in Psalms like Psalm 13.

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭13:1,5‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1] How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? [5] But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

Psalm 42 exemplifies a journey from despair to hope, from questioning to trust, encapsulating the spiritual struggles and resilience that characterize much of the Psalms.

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Sermon Notes: Embracing Thankfulness

Sermon Outline: Embracing Thankfulness 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Introduction

1 Thessalonians is addressed to the Christian church in Thessalonica, a major city of Macedonia in ancient Greece.

This church was predominantly Gentile, consisting of converts from paganism.

Purpose

Encouragement and Comfort: Paul writes to encourage the new believers in their faith, especially amidst persecution and trials.

Instruction on Christian Living:

  • The epistle provides guidance on living a holy life, emphasizing love, holiness, and work ethic.

Clarification about the Second Coming of Christ:

  • Paul addresses misunderstandings about the return of Christ, providing comfort and instruction regarding those who had died before this event.

I. Rejoice Always (1 Thessalonians 5:16)

  • ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:16‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [16] Rejoice always, 

Explanation: Discuss the call to continual joy in the Christian life.

Cross References:

  • Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.”
  • James 1:2 Consider it pure joy when facing trials of various kinds.

Application:

  • Practical ways to maintain joy in various life circumstances.

II. Pray Continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

  • 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [17] pray continually, 

Explanation: Emphasize the importance of persistent prayer.

Cross References:

  • Luke 18:1 Jesus taught them to always pray and not give up.
  • Ephesians 6:18 Praying at all times in the Spirit.

Application:

  • Develop a consistent prayer life.

III. Give Thanks in All Circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

  • ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:18‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [18] give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Explanation: Understanding gratitude as God’s will.

Cross References:

  • Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always and for everything to God.
  • James 1:17 Every good gift is from above.

Application:

  • Identifying and appreciating God’s blessings in everyday life.

IV. The Interconnectedness of Joy, Prayer, and Thankfulness

Discussion: How joy, prayer, and thankfulness work together to strengthen faith.

Illustration:

Paul and Silas in prison, narrated in Acts 16:25-34.

Context and Story:

Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi after being falsely accused and severely beaten.

Despite their dire circumstances, they were found praying and singing hymns to God at midnight in their prison cell.

Joy:

Their ability to sing hymns amidst suffering demonstrates an extraordinary level of joy, a joy not based on their circumstances but rooted in their faith.

Prayer:

The fact that they were praying indicates their reliance on and communication with God even in the most challenging times.

Thankfulness:

Their singing and praying in such a situation can be seen as an act of thankfulness, expressing gratitude to God despite their current troubles.

Outcome and Strengthening of Faith:

  • A miraculous event occurs as their prayers lead to an earthquake that opens the prison doors and unshackles all prisoners.
  • The jailer, witnessing these events, is so moved that he asks Paul and Silas how to be saved, leading to the conversion of him and his household.

This account not only shows the strengthening of Paul and Silas’s own faith but also demonstrates the powerful witness their faith, joy, and thankfulness had on others, leading to the spreading of the Gospel and the strengthening of faith in others.

V. Overcoming Obstacles to Joy, Prayer, and Thankfulness

Challenges: Address common challenges:

  • Hardships
  • Busy schedules
  • Spiritual dryness

Remember:

  • ‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭40:30‭-‬31‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [30] Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; [31] but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  1. Joy as a Choice: Choosing joy is a daily decision that transcends circumstances.
  2. Prayer as a Lifeline: Consistent prayer deepens our relationship with God and sustains us.
  3. Thankfulness as God’s Will: Cultivating a grateful heart aligns us with God’s desire for our lives.
  4. Interconnected Virtues: Joy, prayer, and thankfulness are intertwined and mutually reinforcing.
  5. Practical Steps: Implement small daily habits to grow in these areas.
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Bible Study: Purpose of Philippians 2

Philippians is one of the “Prison Epistles” written by the Apostle Paul during his imprisonment, most likely in Rome. The primary audience is the church in Philippi, a city in the Roman province of Macedonia. The church there was among the first to be established in Europe and shared a special bond with Paul, supporting him both emotionally and materially.

Take the Quiz Below (Before or After the Lesson)

Lesson Quiz

Background of Philippians Chapter 2:

1. Close Relationship with the Philippian Church: The Philippians had a close relationship with Paul, evidenced by their financial support and genuine concern for his well-being (Philippians 4:10-18). This relationship sets the tone for the intimate and heartfelt content of the letter.

  • ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:10‭-‬18‬ ‭NIV‬‬  [10] I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. [11] I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [12] I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. [13] I can do all this through him who gives me strength. [14] Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. [15] Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; [16] for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. [17] Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. [18] I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 

2. Purpose of Writing: Paul’s intent was to thank the Philippians for their support and to encourage them in their faith. He also addresses some issues in the church, primarily unity and humility among believers.

3. Joy Amidst Suffering: A recurrent theme in Philippians is joy or rejoicing in Christ despite circumstances. Even though Paul was imprisoned, his primary concern was the progress of the gospel and the spiritual maturity of the believers.

Reason for Philippians Chapter 2:

1. Call to Unity: There seems to have been some level of disagreement or disunity in the Philippian church (Philippians 4:2). In Chapter 2, Paul emphasizes unity, urging believers to be “like-minded,” “having the same love,” and “being of one accord, of one mind” (Philippians 2:2).

  • ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 

2. The Example of Christ’s Humility: As a remedy for disunity, Paul points to the ultimate example of humility: Jesus Christ. In verses 5-11, he provides a Christological hymn or creed, detailing the self-emptying (kenosis) of Christ, His humble birth, obedient death, and subsequent exaltation by God. This serves as an illustrative call for believers to adopt the same mindset of humility and sacrificial love.

  • ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:5‭-‬11‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: [6] Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; [7] rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. [8] And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! [9] Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, [10] that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, [11] and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

3. Encouragement through Timothy and Epaphroditus: Later in the chapter, Paul speaks about Timothy and Epaphroditus, two individuals who embodied the values of unity and humility that he was advocating. They serve as concrete examples of the behavior he hoped to see in the Philippians.

In summary, the background of Philippians 2 is:

  • Set against Paul’s close relationship with the Philippian church and his desire for their spiritual growth.
  • The main reason for the chapter is to address potential disunity, encouraging the believers towards humility and unity using Christ as the ultimate model.
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Sermon Notes: 31 Years of God’s Faithfulness: Celebrating Our Past, Anticipating Our Future

I. Remembrance of God’s Faithfulness (Deuteronomy 4:9)

Deuteronomy 4:9 MSG – Just make sure you stay alert. Keep close watch over yourselves. Don’t forget anything of what you’ve seen. Don’t let your heart wander off. Stay vigilant as long as you live. Teach what you’ve seen and heard to your children and grandchildren.

II. Celebrating the Present (Psalm 118:24)

Psalm 118:24 NIV – The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.

The Message

  • The dedication required to run a marathon.

Imagine standing at the starting line of a marathon, surrounded by thousands of runners. Among them is Sarah, a first-time marathon runner, whose journey to this moment began a year ago. Sarah was not always a runner. In fact, the idea of running a marathon seemed impossible to her. Her lifestyle was sedentary, and her health, suboptimal. But a stirring challenge from a friend sparked something within her—a desire for change.

Sarah’s commitment did not come easy. The early mornings when the rest of the world was asleep, Sarah was up, lacing her running shoes. Rain or shine, her routine was unshakable. Each day was a battle against her own limits, a challenge to push a little farther than the day before.

Nutrition, sleep, training—her entire life underwent a transformation. Sundays became not just a day of worship but also the day of her long, arduous training runs. She had to resist temptations, from skipping training to indulging in unhealthy foods, all to keep her body and mind honed for the singular goal that lay months ahead.

What drove Sarah was more than the desire to cross the finish line; it was the journey, the transformation, the discipline she learned along the way. The marathon to her became a living parable of her faith journey—a testament to the scripture in Hebrews 12:1, ‘let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.’

As we gather here today, each of us is running a marathon of sorts in our spiritual lives. We are called to a similar dedication in our walk with Christ, to ‘lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely.’ Let us be inspired by Sarah’s dedication to her race as we consider our own spiritual discipline, the commitment required to run the race set before us with perseverance.”

This story can be used to draw a parallel between the dedication required to train for a marathon and the dedication required in the Christian life to pursue spiritual growth and holiness.

I. Laying Aside Every Weight (Hebrews 12:1a)

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:1 ‭NIV‬‬ [1a] Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  

  • A. Identifying Our Encumbrances (1 John 2:16 “For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.”)
  • B. The Sin That Clings So Closely (James 1:14-15 “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire…”)

II. Running with Perseverance (Hebrews 12:1b)

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:1‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [1b] And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,

  • A. The Race Set Before Us (1 Corinthians 9:24-25 “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.”)
  • B. Perseverance in Trials (James 1:2-4 “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds…”)

III. Looking to Jesus (Hebrews 12:2)

Hebrews‬ ‭12:2‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [2] fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

  • A. The Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith (Ephesians 2:8 “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”)
  • B. For the Joy Set Before Him (Philippians 2:8-9 “And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”)

IV. Consider Him Who Endured (Hebrews 12:3)

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭12:3‬ ‭NIV‬‬ [3] Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

  • A. Against Hostility From Sinners (1 Peter 2:21 “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.”)
  • B. Lest You Grow Weary or Fainthearted (Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”)

Conclusion:

  • Lay aside every weight and sin, to run with perseverance, and to keep our eyes on Jesus.
  • Draw strength from considering Jesus, who endured the cross for us.

V. Embracing the Future with Hope (Jeremiah 29:11)

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV – For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Spiritual Focus: Identify and remove hindrances that impede our spiritual journey.
  2. Endurance: Commit to running the race with endurance, keeping faith through trials.
  3. Christ-Centered Life: Fix our gaze on Jesus, drawing inspiration from His example.
  4. Resilience: Stay strong in faith, resisting discouragement and spiritual fatigue.
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Bible Study: Hezekiah’s Tunnel

Hezekiah’s Tunnel, also known as the Siloam Tunnel, is an ancient water tunnel located in Jerusalem, Israel. It is a remarkable engineering feat from antiquity and holds historical and archaeological significance. Here are some key details about Hezekiah’s Tunnel:

1.Construction: The tunnel was built during the reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, likely in the late 8th century BCE, around 701-715 BCE. It was constructed to provide a reliable water source to the city of Jerusalem during times of siege.

2.Purpose: The primary purpose of Hezekiah’s Tunnel was to channel water from the Gihon Spring, which was located outside the city walls, into the city of Jerusalem. This provided the city with a secure and concealed water source, reducing the vulnerability of the city to sieges or attacks.

3.Engineering Feat: Hezekiah’s Tunnel is a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient inhabitants of Jerusalem. It was chiseled through solid rock and extends for over 1,750 feet (533 meters). The tunnel was dug from both ends, meeting in the middle, and has a winding, curved shape. This engineering technique allowed the tunnel to follow the natural contours of the rock.

4.Inscription: An ancient inscription, known as the Siloam Inscription, was discovered in the tunnel in the 19th century. It commemorates the completion of the tunnel and the meeting of the two excavation teams. The inscription provides valuable historical information about the construction.

5.Access: Today, Hezekiah’s Tunnel is a popular archaeological and historical site in Jerusalem. Visitors can explore the tunnel, wading through knee-deep water in some sections, to experience the ancient engineering marvel firsthand. There are two options for visiting: the wet tunnel (walking through water) and the dry tunnel (a shorter, dry route).

6.Biblical Significance: Hezekiah’s Tunnel is mentioned in the Bible in 2 Chronicles 32:30 and is associated with King Hezekiah’s preparations to protect Jerusalem from the Assyrian invasion.

Visiting Hezekiah’s Tunnel provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history of ancient Jerusalem and appreciate the engineering skills of its inhabitants. It remains a testament to the resourcefulness and determination of the people of that time.