GOOD WORKS

FAITH V. WORKS: LESSON THREE

It has become popular for many Christians to paint good works in a negative light. In fact, the term “good works” has almost become a dirty word. Indeed, we must be careful not to fall into legalism: Legalism is “rigid adherence to self-imposed and prescribed beliefs and rules that are not concretely established in God’s Word, which result in hard and fast judgments and actions regarding any person or organization that does not comply with such beliefs and rules. It is an inordinate emphasis on the letter, not the spirit, of the law—often a misinterpretation of Scripture. It is the product of self-will; it is not a natural outgrowth from God and His Word.”

But broad condemnation of good works is to vilify why we were “created in Christ Jesus": Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” But not all of the things we label “good works” please God. The dividing line between works that please God, and those that do not, boils down to one thing: Who are we bringing glory through what we do?

During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, ”In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Our motivation for good works must be to “give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” They must not be “the product of self-will,” but instead, they must be “a natural outgrowth from God and His Word.”

But good works not only serve to demonstrate our new identity in Christ to those around us, but God considers them an indicator of our love and willingness to follow Christ as He commanded in John 14:12: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” In John 14:15, Jesus continues by saying, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”

Did you catch that? Jesus didn’t tell us to muscle out some good works – God is not impressed with our good works. Isaiah 64:6 says, “We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” Instead, Jesus was saying, “Those who follow me will do as I have commanded, and I’m going to help you. In fact, I’ll send someone who actually has the power to do what you are unable to do.” Look at the end of John 14: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” We don’t have to fearfully try to impress God, but instead, rest in His Holy Spirit to lead and guide us.

BUT, all of the good works in the world won’t bring us salvation: Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 

1. What is one danger of vilifying good works? What is the dividing line between works that please God, and those that do not? 

• Note To Parents: Broad condemnation of good works is to vilify why we were “created in Christ Jesus”: Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” But not all of the things we label “good works” please God. The dividing line between works that please God, and those that do not, boils down to one thing: Who are we bringing glory through what we do? During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, ”In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Our motivation for good works must be to “give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” They must not be “the product of self-will,” but instead, they must be “a natural outgrowth from God and His Word.”

   2.  How does God consider works an indicator of our love and willingness to follow Christ? 

• Note To Parents: Good works not only serve to demonstrate our new identity in Christ to those around us, but God considers them an indicator of our love and willingness to follow Christ as He commanded in John 14:12: “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.” In John 14:15, Jesus continues by saying, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” 

   3.  We are deceived when we believe that works that please God are of our own accord. What is the source of truly good works? 

• Note To Parents: Jesus didn’t tell us to muscle out some good works – God is not impressed with our good works. Isaiah 64:6 says, “We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” Instead, Jesus was saying, “Those who follow me will do as I have commanded, and I’m going to help you. In fact, I’ll send someone who actually has the power to do what you are unable to do.” Look at the end of John 14: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” We don’t have to fearfully try to impress God, but instead, rest in His Holy Spirit to lead and guide us. BUT, all of the good works in the world won’t bring us salvation: Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

GOD BLESS YOUR MINISTRY TO YOUR TEEN!

I am always available to each of you.

Mike Childress

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. II Timothy 2:15

A few years ago I made a huge mistake. I decided I was going to renovate our master bathroom. Although I consider myself an adequate handyman, I was faking it when it came to such a big renovation. After I was done, I assessed my handiwork and I was actually a little ashamed. Drywall was uneven, grout in tile was haphazard, and the electrical probably wasn't to code. Not only did it look bad, but it was a little dangerous.

I think many of us approach Scripture the way that I approached my bathroom renovation. We just sort of fake it. Instead of studying and being a "worker who does not need to be ashamed," we do things haphazardly. It's not pretty and maybe a bit dangerous.

Although not all of us are called to be building contractors, we are ALL called to know God's Word and draw close to Him. This fall we want you to take advantage of the many studies/classes being offered so that you will know God's Word better. Here they are:

Adult Sunday Teaching
   -Sunday Mornings 10am - Sunday School and various Life Groups
   -Sunday Evenings 5pm - Life Groups
                                          - Financial Peace (starting 5pm on Oct. 7)
Click here for class titles.

Life Groups
   -Meet throughout the week. Click here for a complete listing.

Men's Breakfast and accountability
   -For the Men's Breakfast leadership series schedule, click here.

Women's Bible Studies
   -Start next week!
Click here for complete listing.

Student Ministry
   -Fusion
   -Second Sunday

Children's Ministry
   -Nursery & Preschool
   -Children
   -Club 56

Peace,

Todd

"Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil." 1 Thessalonians 5: 21-22

Is there a Hell? Does anyone go there? Or is that a medieval concept grabbed onto by "hyperfundy" preachers to scare people and increase the church revenue stream? Is Hell at odds with the love of God? What did Jesus actually teach? Clearly, God so loves the world that he gave His only Son so that whosoever believes in Him might not perish; He came not to condemn but to save (John 3:16-17). Scripture also has a great deal to say, however, about Hell, Hades, Gehenna, and the eternal judgment for those not made righteous by Christ.

Unless you have been hiding under a rock, you have heard of mega-pastor Rob Bell's new book LOVE WINS. Mark Driscoll has posted a chronology of events related to this viral controversy at this website:

http://theresurgence.com/2011/03/15/a-chronology-of-rob-bell-on-hell

Bell's publisher seemed to be intentionally controversial in the pre-release promotion campaign with statements like the following:

"Fans flock to his Facebook page, his NOOMA videos have been viewed by millions, and his Sunday sermons are attended by 10,000 parishioners—with a downloadable podcast reaching 50,000 more. An electrifying, unconventional pastor whom Time magazine calls "a singular rock star in the church world," Rob Bell is the most vibrant, central religious leader of the millennial generation. Now, in Love Wins: Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived, Bell addresses one of the most controversial issues of faith—the afterlife—arguing that a loving God would never sentence human souls to eternal suffering. With searing insight, Bell puts hell on trial, and his message is decidedly optimistic—eternal life doesn't start when we die; it starts right now. And ultimately, Love Wins."

I have just purchased Rob Bell's book and will read it for myself when I get a few hours. In the meantime, I will recommend to you the following review and scriptures:

http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevindeyoung/2011/03/14/rob-bell-love-wins-review/

Matthew 25:31-46

31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' 40 And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, [1] you did it to me.'"

41 "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.' 44 Then they also will answer, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?' 45 Then he will answer them, saying, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.' 46 And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

Matthew 13:49-50

49 "So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

Revelation 20:9-15

"Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and noplace was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."

We must always measure anything we read, even if it comes from within the Christian community, against the whole counsel of scripture. We have been cautioned in 2 Timothy 4:3 that the time will come when "men will not put up with sound doctrine" and will instead "gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn away from the truth and turn aside to myths." For that reason, we must continue to "test everything." (I Thessalonians 5:21a)

Peace,
Quigg+

CAST YOUR BURDEN

Step One…Honesty With God 

Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” The Hebrew word translated here as “cast” means to throw away. Throwing away suggests permanence. Throw away your pain, your disappointment, your broken dreams, your heartache. Cast your burden on the Lord for He cares for you. You don’t have to carry it around like luggage everywhere you go.

Have you heard that before? That concept is life-giving and essential for Christians. But before we sprint toward an easy and hasty answer, let’s pause. I’ve heard sermons, read books, and been to Bible studies that, over and over again, give this guidance: “Lay all your worries and troubles at the foot of the cross” without ever saying how. I was left thinking, “That sounds great, so how do I do that? At first it seems obvious. But when I kept trying to lay my worries and troubles at the foot of the cross, I became impatient, and I reclaimed my burdens and problems. They were my burden to bear. Life’s hard, right?

Imagine someone handing you the pieces to a model airplane, I mean like one of those really nerdy ones with little motors, glue, that balsa wood that breaks in half when you touch it with a feather, stickers, paint, and all that other nerd stuff. But there’s a catch. There are no instructions. Without knowing where to start, the steps and their order, what it should look like when you’re done, what a plane is, etc., could you put together a flawless masterpiece?

Do you want to know how to “cast your burden on the Lord” as we are taught in Psalm 55:22? It boils down to four things: 1. Understand your inadequacy to deal with this burden, 2. Move beyond the intellectual, and embrace your inadequacy, 3. Be honest with God about your inadequacy, and 4. Acknowledge that He alone is adequate. You’ll never fully conquer one step, leave it behind, and move on to the next, but there is so much we can do with Christ as our identity and the Holy Spirit as our enabler. Let’s figure out how we can help each other in this journey too: Life together, Christian community, right?

I AM INADEQUATE TO DEAL WITH MY BURDEN

Scripture teaches total dependence on God. In spiritual matters, the Bible is very clear about our complete inadequacy. I suppose it is best boiled down in Romans 7:18: “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.”

I can’t even keep a small fraction of the law. But Galatians 3:24 (NIV1984) says, “So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith.” Even a sinner’s PERFECTION is inadequate. “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

We are just as powerless to heal cancer, tackle infertility, or conjure up the guy or girl we’re supposed to marry. Matthew 6:27-29 says, “And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.”

Move beyond the intellectual, and embrace your inadequacy

As Christians, especially those who have attended church regularly, we’ve heard about our inadequacies. We get that…intellectually. But the way we act, the things we try to do on our own, demonstrates the fact that we are not embracing who we are.

Consider Galatians 3:2-3: “Let me put this question to you: How did your new life begin? Was it by working your heads off to please God? Or was it by responding to God's Message to you? Are you going to continue this craziness? For only crazy people would think they could complete by their own efforts what was begun by God. If you weren't smart enough or strong enough to begin it, how do you suppose you could perfect it?” (The Message). We must embrace our COMPLETE inadequacy and inability.

There is a quick test to see whether you have embraced your inadequacy. It is pass/fail. When you are carrying a burden, or faced with a problem, is your first thought to see how you can shift the weight of the burden/fix the problem yourself? If so, as it often is for me, you have not fully embraced your inadequacy. I know I haven’t, and I am praying that God will continue to reveal how I can totally let go of my own silly self-reliance. Embracing our weakness and ability means that burdens and problems point us to God, and not ourselves.

Be honest with God about your inadequacy

It is amazing that David, who was under the Law and had not even received the New Covenant through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross, understood that “the sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). It was not about what David could do, but instead about what David would trust God to do. Your relationship with Christ started, or will start, with this type of honesty. This is important: Our relationship with Christ, OUR SALVATION, begins with REPENTANCE. Repentance is fully embracing our brokenness and powerlessness, and seeking the power of God to transform and change us. I can’t…Christ can. 

When David sinned against God with Bathsheba, and he was confronted by Nathan the prophet, David was burdened and broken with his own guilt, shame, and depravity. As you read Psalm 51, notice how David exemplifies the right response: he embraces his brokenness and powerlessness (vs. 1-5), he acknowledges that only God can cleanse him of his sin (vs. 6-7), he begs God to transform him (vs. 8-12), and he joyfully awaits God working through his transformation (vs. 13-19). 

Acknowledge that He alone is adequate 

Imagine your car broke down on the train tracks. You see the light of the train heading your way – at full speed. In your panic, you jumped out of the car, leaving your keys locked inside. But that is not the only thing you left. Your child is strapped securely in his car seat, locked inside of the car. This is likely how my friend felt when she heard that her three year old son had cancer. Unexpectedly, and out of the blue, her son’s life was being threatened. It was urgent. She was powerless to save him on her own, and she knew this. She fully embraced her inadequacy. 

As you see the train bearing down on you, there are two guys watching this all unfold. There’s a shrimpy little guy who has probably never seen the inside of a gym, and then there is a super-fit, muscle man. Who are you going to run to for help? I know that I can’t lift that car by myself. I’m unable to push that car off the tracks on my own. I’m running to the huge guy, the guy I know IS adequate! 

God created that strong man with a breath. I am going to him. Aren’t you glad we don’t serve a weak God? Psalm 24:8 says, “Who is this King of glory? The Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord, mighty in battle!” We have a God who can carry our burdens and solve our problems. In Matthew 19:26, Jesus said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” What a great reminder. 

NOT ONLY IS HE ABLE, BUT HE IS WILLING

So often, we don’t entrust our burden to Christ. We do this for several reasons: 1. We don’t believe/understand that we are inadequate without Christ. 2. We may say we are inadequate, but we don’t believe it – it is still just an intellectual idea (read: empty religion). 3. We aren’t honest with God by turning to Him and asking for help. 4. Or we just don’t believe He can help us.

Those that are haughty about rejecting God, those who wear it like a badge of honor, are simply victims of their failure to realistically embrace their inadequacy. Anyone who embraces that “the wages of sin is death,” and their inadequacy, knows he or she can turn only to Christ. It is literally life and death.

In the context of a healthy relationship with Christ, it is the most natural thing in the world to “cast your burden on the Lord” because you have seen Him “sustain you” time and time again. As we said, the Hebrew word translated here as “cast” means to throw away. Throwing away suggests permanence. We have a God who is in the business of transformation. We have a God who cares for our hurts more than ANYONE:

• Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
• Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
• Isaiah 40:29-31 says, “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
• I Peter 5:6-7 says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.”

But my favorite passage about this is Hebrews 4:14-16: “Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Jesus Christ personally experienced the pain, disappointment, and heartache the world has to offer. He beat it then, and defeated it on the cross. He won’t reject you. Give it to Him…“cast your burden on the Lord”…throw it away because you have a God who IS MORE THAN adequate, who truly understands your struggles, and will respond. Now you know how.

God bless your ministry to your teen!

I am always available to each of you.

Mike Childress

What would you say is the "one thing" that is most missing in the world?

• What is the "one thing" that would unite families? 
• Create fun work environments? 
• Cause schools to be more productive? 
• Bring financial stability to many families? 
• What would make the most change in the world?

What is the "one thing" that YOU need the most? 

This "one thing" is:

• Not something you would find on a presidential candidates platform, but it would bring world peace. 
• Not in a medicine cabinet, but it would increase the health of millions.  
• Not in a business annual report, but if a company were rich in this "one thing" it would prosper.   
• If counselors could dispense this "one thing" in bottles, it would be given to every client. 

Whether you're extroverted or introverted, ugly or good looking, hippie or redneck, rich or poor, black, white, asian or hispanic  this "one thing" is guaranteed to change the way you think, look, and act. It would change the way you look at everything. What is the one thing? Forgiveness.

This week in our community, I have come face to face with those facing divorce, cancer, suicide, addiction, moral failure, financial ruin, and abuse. So have you. Yet there is "one thing," one common need, in all these situations I have found. That is the need for forgiveness.

Why is forgiveness so hard to give, and sometimes, even to receive? A grudge, an offense, or bitterness is the one weapon we think we have that we can control and use against the person that has offended us. Because we think we know what's best (pride!), we hold onto that offense, nurture it, retell the stories in our head, and feed a prideful stubborness. What we don't realize is the damage is to ourselves, not the other person. "Bitterness is a poison that we take ourselves and hope it kills someone else."

Wisdom tells us to walk humbly:

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom." James 3:13

But apart from humility and forgiveness comes all kinds of problems:

"But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. ¹⁵ Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. ¹⁶ For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." James 3:14-16

We aren't surprised to find that Jesus spoke of forgiveness often, but forgiveness really could summarize His whole mission (Eph 1:7-10; Luke 1:77; Col. 1:14-14). It was also the most difficult part of His mission (Matt 9:5-7) because it cost Him His life. In the same way, it is one of the most costly parts of your mission. It will also cost you your life.

How do I forgive?

The only way to forgive someone is to reflect on the forgiveness you have received (Matt 6:12; Matt 18: 21-35). We love others because he first loved us (I John 4:19). If we hate others, we have not received God's love for us (I John 4:20).

If you are having difficulty forgiving someone, please read, meditate on, and memorize the verses referenced in this devotional. They could be balm for your scorched soul. Ask God to melt your heart toward that other person even as God's heart is melted toward you, a sinner. A must read would be Total Forgiveness by RT Kendall. Skip lunch and go buy this book. It will soften your heart and be a big step toward healing.

Most of all, stop demonizing the person you need to forgive and take practical steps to love them. Jesus tells us to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” Matt 5:44. Prayer is a good start. Perhaps buy them a gift, say something kind, or do them a favor without them even knowing it was you. I know this is hard, but if you want the "one thing" all of us need, you must do it.

When you think about it, the "one thing" really isn't just an important thing... it might just be the "only thing" we really need in this life.

Todd

"We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise." 2 Corinthians 10:12 (NIV)

Every time I drive into our neighborhood, I see the Bersch's yard. It is perfect . . .looks like a golf course! Their grass is thick and green and perfectly manicured. Our yard certainly isn't any of those things. In fact, if it were not for my dear Annette, our yard would look like the tumbleweed "dust bowl" of Texas in the 1930's.

So there are times when the grass IS greener in the neighbor's yard.

On the other hand, one of the most common tools Satan uses to destroy and uproot is planting the thought in our mind that "the grass is greener" over there. We look at our own marriage, parents, kids, job, church, coach, or school and can see only the flaws. Satan provides a magnifying glass for fault finding and yet keeps us blind to the many, many blessings we DO have.

Then Satan subtly whispers in our ear, "You could have better. You deserve better. Why put up with this sorry, broken down, third-rate mess when you could be happier and more fulfilled elsewhere?" So the merry-go-round begins.

The thing that strikes me about this oft-used tool of the enemy is how effective it is at getting us into a state of being completely self-focused. Instead of considering how we can serve others, we find fault with them. Instead of seeking how God can use us to bless others, we run to "greener grass" where our needs or perceived needs can be met. Me . . . I . . . and mine.

History is full of stories of sheep that went to "greener grass" only to discover that it was not there or was colored with toxic paint.

My prayer for your marriages, fellowship, and other relationships is that you will not fall prey to a spirit of comparison. BE WISE and consider all the good that surrounds you. (Philippians 4:8)

Quigg+

It is time for something a little different! Instead of the typical parent's guide this week, Matt Rouse (our new media expert on staff) and I teamed up to make this video lesson since I am out of the office this week. It is the same video your teen watched on Sunday morning. I hope it is engaging, challenging, and life-changing as it covers a very vital topic. Please watch it and discuss with your teen!

GOD BLESS YOUR MINISTRY TO YOUR TEEN!

I am always available to each of you.

Mike

"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
1 John 1:8

A few weeks ago, I started leading a new small group for men on Monday nights at Celebrate Recovery called "A-Z." Total attendance: 2...counting me. A-Z is a "catch all" group for folks who are struggling with a hurt, habit, or hang-up not associated with chemical abuse or sexual purity. (There is another one for women.)

Why have only 2 of us shown up? Why, in a church of over 700 in attendance each Sunday, do we only have 30-50 coming to Celebrate Recovery on Monday nights? Many not even members of our church!? Is it possible that we are free from hurts, habits, and hang-ups? I don't think so.

The biggest barrier to anyone coming to Celebrate Recovery, or my little A-Z group, is getting the words "I have a problem" to come out of your mouth. The biggest barrier to growing closer to Christ is the same. Like the "Fonz" on the old show "Happy Days" (remember? "I was wr..wr..wr..!), the words "I was wrong" get stuck on their way out from our lips.

It may not be grammatically correct, but the phrase "I got a problem" could potentially change your life and bring you to a new place.

"I got a problem in my marriage."
"I got a problem with my eating habits."
"I got a problem with spending too much."
"I got a problem with anger towards my kids."
"I got a problem with depression."
"I got a problem with forgiveness."

All these phrases are the first step to freedom and change, not shame and judgment; at least not at Church of the Holy Spirit, and certainly not at Celebrate Recovery.

I John 1:8 says we've all "got problems" when it says "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." Then in verse 9, it describes a two-step process toward forgiveness:

1. Confess: "If we confess our sin" - This isn't easy. We all have a tendency to be blind to our own self-righteousness. We compare ourselves to others and come up fine rather than comparing ourselves to the true standard: Jesus. Scripture also says, "Confess your sins to one another, that you may be healed." (James 5:16)

2. Receive: "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9) Two things: HE does the work. He forgives. He is faithful even when we are not. He loves you that much. He cleanses you from ALL unrighteousness. All. There is nothing you can do that is outside the scope of forgiveness. Nothing.

I got a problem is simply admitting need and resisting self-righteousness. Simple, but difficult. It could, however, change your marriage, parenting, health, and finances.

I'd love to see you Monday at 7:00. No judgment. Just Jesus.

Todd

In today's Enews I do not have a theme, but want to communicate several things to keep you "in the loop." Keep your eyes on Christ and be about His ministry . . .

First, on Friday we are honored to be able to offer our sanctuary to two grieving families and to the grieving in our community. There is a 10am funeral for Pamela Plott and a 5-7pm visitation and 7:30pm funeral for Daniel Maloney. Daniel died in a car accident and was only 19. Needless to say, there are many in our community who are distraught and need the ministry and comfort of Jesus. Almost 1000 people, including many teenagers, are expected at Daniel's funeral. So, please pray for the staff . . . that we might represent Jesus Christ well and minister His love and hope to the family. If you can, please bring a dish or punch or drinks for the Friday night post-funeral reception for 1000 people. It is a tangible way to show the love of Jesus. Barbara Murray is the point of contact ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

Second, thanks for the gifts you give to COJ that make it possible for us to have the sanctuary and facility we do. We are trying to use this base for ministry regularly for everything from Sunday worship, prayer services, VBS, missions banquets, Christian concerts, baccalaureates, graduation ceremonies, and weddings and funerals. We would not be at an all-time high in attendance in worship and SS if it were not for the room provided by the new sanctuary and classrooms for SS and Life Groups. So, THANK YOU.

Third, this Sunday is Palm Sunday - the start of Holy Week, where we relive Jesus' triumphant procession into Jerusalem as King of Kings, but also as a lamb going to slaughter. Maundy Thursday we have a 7pm service that will focus on Jesus' Last Supper, His command to "love one another" and the washing of His disciples' feet. On "GOOD Friday" we will relive and give thanks for Jesus' willingness to die for our sins and for us personally. Isaiah 53 is a great passage to read if you want to better understand the context of Jesus' death. These are my favorite services of the year. Without them Easter has little context. They are a great way to walk through Jesus' last week and grow spiritually. So, do yourself a favor and come to all of them. Bring your loved ones and friends with you.

I love and appreciate you all. I am blessed to have so many caring, loving parishioners whose focus is on Jesus Christ and His kingdom.

Quigg+

A BALANCED VIEW OF PRAYER

This week, we watched another video from Francis Chan’s Basic Series; this video was entitled “Prayer.” You can actually watch the video in its entirety here on You Tube (at least for now). Chan, as he so often does, provides a balanced view of prayer.

He begins by offering a challenge to a flippant attitude toward prayer, and instead, exhorts us to be careful and thoughtful in how we approach our Creator. He uses Ecclesiastes 5:1-7:

“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few. For a dream comes with much business, and a fool's voice with many words. When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow.  It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay. Let not your mouth lead you into sin, and do not say before the messenger that it was a mistake. Why should God be angry at your voice and destroy the work of your hands? For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear.”

A lot of times, our prayers are not aligned with God’s will: “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures” (James 4:3).

He then breaks down and dissects the Lord’s prayer (Matthew 6). He first highlights the community aspect of prayer- “our father,” “give us our daily bread.” “God give us our daily bread”…just enough for today. We want more, and we want guarantees. “Lead me not into temptation.” We have likely all prayed this while still hanging onto unrepented sin. “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” That’s a scary verse – how well do I forgive others? Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Chan then addresses the phrase, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done.” He says, “What if you got together with a group of people, and you knew that this group of people … they all loved God, they all feared Him, and they really were living for God’s kingdom and for His mission. And imagine if you came collectively with people that you’ve sacrificed with, you’ve sacrificed for. This is a family, and you come united and you all pray together and say, ‘Our Father … You’ve seen our lives. You know that we care about Your kingdom. We want Your kingdom here. We want You to change us. We want You to change the people around us. Can you imagine praying with that type of unity?”

My hope is that our teens got a more balanced view of prayer, and they were challenged to be thoughtful in their approach to God.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 

1. What type of warning does the Bible give us about how we approach God in prayer?

• Note To Parents: Scripture warns against a flippant attitude toward prayer, and instead, exhorts us to be careful and thoughtful in how we approach our creator. He uses Ecclesiastes 5:1-7: "Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few. For a dream comes with much business, and a fool's voice with many words. When you vow a vow to God, do not delay paying it, for he has no pleasure in fools. Pay what you vow. It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay. Let not your mouth lead you into sin, and do not say before the messenger that it was a mistake. Why should God be angry at your voice and destroy the work of your hands? For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity; but God is the one you must fear." A lot of times, our prayers are not aligned with God's will: "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures" (James 4:3).

2. What are the different elements of the Lord's Prayer? How can we apply these to our lives so that we are not flippant toward the Lord's Prayer?

• Note To Parents: Chan then breaks down and dissects the Lord’s prayer (Matthew 6). He first highlights the community aspect of prayer- “our father,” “give us our daily bread.” “God give us our daily bread”…just enough for today. We want more, and we want guarantees. “Lead me not into temptation.” We have likely all prayed this while still hanging onto unrepented sin. “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” That’s a scary verse – how well do I forgive others? Matthew 6:14-15 says, “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Chan then addresses the phrase, “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done.” He says, “What if you got together with a group of people, and you knew that this group of people … they all loved God, they all feared Him, and they really were living for God’s kingdom and for His mission. And imagine if you came collectively with people that you’ve sacrificed with, you’ve sacrificed for. This is a family, and you come united and you all pray together and say, ‘Our Father … You’ve seen our lives. You know that we care about Your kingdom. We want Your kingdom here. We want You to change us. We want You to change the people around us. Can you imagine praying with that type of unity?” 

GOD BLESS YOUR MINISTRY TO YOUR TEEN! 

I am always available to each of you.

Mike Childress