Sermon Outline

Scripture for August 1, 2021: 2 Peter 3

Lord Of The Sabbath
(Mark 2:23-28)

Verse 23

● God Himself rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:3)

● All things, including the Sabbath of the Old Law, were given by God (Romans 11:36)

Verse 24

● Proper hermeneutics is key (particularly historical in this case)

● We must distinguish between modern day acceptability & period correct practices (roughly A.D.30)

● Scripture speaks to this very situation (Deuteronomy 23:24-25)

● Specific detail in Luke 6:1 is critical to the Pharisees’ indignation (?)

● Who was working? Argument could be made for the hard working Pharisees

● Man made laws made rule following a religion in itself

Verse 25-26

● Jesus asks self proclaimed scholars of the OT “Have you never read”

● Proof in 1 Samuel 21 that God did not make arbitrary laws as to forgo grace, mercy & love

● Legalism does not save

Verse 27

● Pharisees went way above and beyond what God had commanded, treating their legalism as being as important as Scripture itself

● New Testament does not require adherence to the Sabbath, as all days are days to praise the Lord (Psalm 113:3, Hebrews 13:5, Acts 2:46)

● Are individuals saved by following laws and traditions? (John 6:28-29, Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 2:16)

Verse 28

● Son of Man (Jesus’ most common title for Himself) = Lord of Sabbath (God)

● Does this Pharisaical legalism still exist? (Ecclesiastes 1:9)

● Jesus provides freedom from legalism and religious death (Matthew 11:27-30)

Scripture reading for July 25: Genesis 48

“Properly Passing the Praise”
Psalm 145
Pastor Mark Abel

I. A_______________ B_______________ to His C_______________

II. D_______________ E_______________ for His F_______________

III. G_______________ H_______________ of His I_______________

IV. J_______________ K_______________ His L_______________ and M_______________

V. N_______________ O_______________ on His P_______________

VI. Q_______________ R_______________ in His S_______________

VII. T_______________ U_______________ of His V_______________

VIII. W_______________ X_______________ Y_______________ Z_______________

Scripture Reading for July 18: 2 Peter 2

Not So Fast

(Mark 2:18-22)

Verse 18

● John’s disciples should have known better (John 1:29 3:28)

● Remember where John was at this time (Mark 1:14)

● Fasting protocol (Leviticus 16:29-31)

● Pharisees had it all wrong, function, heart motive, everything (Luke 18:1-13, Matthew 6:16-18)

● Instances of baptism & purposes of fasting (Matthew 4:2, Acts 14:23, Daniel 1, Daniel 10:2-3, Luke 4:2, Acts 9:9, Exodus 19:15, 1 Corinthians 7:5)

Verse 19

● Would have been an offense to fast during a wedding feast

Verse 20

● Those who love the Lord will weep when He dies on the cross (John 16:20)

Verse 21-22

● Legalism & self made religions do not fit with true Christianity

● In order to follow Christ we must _______________ ______________

● Christianity is _______________, _______________-_______________, and _______________

● _______________ (Romans 12:9, 1 John 3:9, 1 Timothy 3:15, Matthew 7:15)

● _______________-_______________ (Colossians 3:2, Matthew 6:33)

● _______________ (John 14:6, Acts 4:12)

● It is a daily charge, a lifelong commitment, & an eternal course (Luke 9:23)

Scripture Reading for July 11: Genesis 47

The Penitent Publican
(Mark 2:13-17)

Verse 13-14

● Jesus comes across Levi. Who is Levi? (Mark 3:16-19)

● Greek word for tax collector is ‘telōnēs’ which literally means _______________ _______________

● Despised profession (Matthew 5:46, Luke 8:9-12) found ______ times in gospels

● Levi responds in obedience

Verse 15

● Tax collectors deemed a special class of sinners (Matthew 5:29)

Verse 16

● Scribes & Pharisees questioning the motive of Christ

● Tried to find fault in Jesus (Mark 3:2)

Verse 17

● Jesus used the physical to explain the spiritual (John 10:9, John 10:11, 1 Corinthians 3:12-15)

● Jesus reminds them of His purpose (1 Timothy 1:15)

● All are in need of a Savior, whether they recognize it or not. Greek word for Savior is ‘sōtēr’ which means _______________

● The gospel addresses sin - Jesus addresses sin

● Humility must be put on, pride must be put off (James 4:6)

Scripture Reading for July 4: 2 Peter 1

Blinded By The Heart

(Mark 2:6-12)

Verse 6

● Pharisee literally means _______________ _______________

● Pharisees attempted to follow more than _______________ laws

● Scribes were highly _______________

Verse 7

● Greek for blasphemy ‘blasphēmia’ means to speak _______________ or _______________

● Could the Scribes & Pharisees have known Jesus was God? (Isaiah 40:3, Isaiah 53:3)

Verse 8

● How did Jesus know what they were thinking, what was in their heart?

● Cohesiveness between God & Christ in knowing the hearts of man (Proverbs 21:2, Jeremiah 17:10, Psalm 44:21, 1 Kings 8:39, Matthew 12:25, 22:18, Luke 6:8, 11:17, 16:15, John 2:25)

Verse 9

● Tough question, how would we respond to this?

Verse 10-12

● Son of Man (title used by Jesus of Himself more than _____________ in the NT)

● The title is a fulfillment of prophecy found in _______________

● Response of the crowd (Mark 2:12, Luke 5:26, Matthew 9:8)

● What about the Scribes & Pharisees?

● Their hearts grew harder (Jeremiah 17:9, Ephesians 4:18)

● God alone can change the heart of individuals (Ezekiel 36:26, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

Scripture reading for June 27: Genesis 46

Measure Of Faith
(Mark 2:1-5)

Verse 1

● Back from His time spent in desolate places (Mark 1:45)

Verse 2

● A large crowd gathered as Jesus taught

Verse 3-4

● Importance in the details (home structure, level of friendship among the men, potential danger in interruption, determination, desperation etc)

Verse 5

● Recognition of faith

● First mention of faith (v. 21-28 =?, 29-31 =?, 32-34 =?, 40-45 =?)

● Is there a difference in faith? (Hebrews 11:6, James 2:19)

● Jesus gives attention to the spiritual needs over the physical (2 Corinthians 4:16, 1 Timothy 4:7-8)

● Who do we thank for our faith? (Hebrews 12:2, 1 Corinthians 13:13)

Scripture reading for June 20: 1 Peter 5

Who Would Take My Place?
(Mark 1:40-45)

Verse 40-45

● What is leprosy? Why was there such a stigma associated with this disease?

● Ramifications of leprosy were not just physical, but social, spiritual, economical, psychological, etc.

● Precise protocol in Leviticus 13

● Correlation between leprosy and sin

1. Like sin, leprosy is a ______________ disease

● Matthew 9:3-4, Ezekiel 36:26, Matthew 15:19

2. Like sin, leprosy causes _______________

● Isaiah 59:1-2,

3. Like sin, the person infected with leprosy cannot __________ themselves

● Matthew 19:25-26

4. Like sin, leprosy can be _______________ by _______________

● 1 John 1:9, Acts 2:38

● Significance in the encounter (Leviticus 14 details the cleansing process)

● Jesus displayed love, compassion, and selflessness in His actions

● Instant and complete healing (v.42)

● Immediate disobedience caused a positional swap (v.45)

● The parallels are rich (Christ taking the place of man)

● Isaiah 53:5, 1 Peter 3:18, 1 Peter 2:24

Scripture Reading for June 13: Genesis 45

Finding Purpose Through Christ
(Mark 1:36-39)

Verse 36-37

● Search for Jesus (36)

Verse 38

● Is there any contradiction as to the purpose of Christ?

● Purposes of Christ on earth

1. Jesus came to do the _______________ of the _______________ (John 6:38)

2. Jesus came to _______________ _______________ (Luke 19:10, 1 Timothy 1:15)

3. Jesus Came to bring _______________ to a _______________ _______________ (John 12:46, John 8:12)

4. Jesus came to _______________ (Mark 10:45)

5. Jesus came to be the _______________ sacrifice for sin (1 John 2:2, Isaiah 5:10, John 3:36)

● Preaching the gospel was paramount to the ministry of Christ

● Preaching the gospel is the central message for all followers of Christ

● John The Baptist preached repentance (Mark 1:4) Christ preached repentance (Mark 1:14-15), thus we are to preach?????

● In light of Christ’ purpose, what is our purpose

1. Like Jesus we are to do the _______________ of the _______________ (Matthew 7:21, John 14:8-15)

2. Jesus came to save sinners and we have a _______________in that (Acts 4:12, Mark 16:15)

3. Like Jesus we are to be _______________ in a ______________ _______________ (John 8:12, Mark 5:14-16, Philippians 2:14-16)

4. Like Jesus we are _______________ to ______________ (Joshua 24:15, Romans 12:11, John 12:26, 1 Peter 4:10-11)

5. Jesus _______________ everything, we too are to be a people of _______________ (Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 16:24-25)

Verse 39

● Jesus fulfilling that purpose

Scripture Reading for June 6: 1 Peter 4

The Prominence Of Prayer

(Mark 1:35)

Verse 35

● Jesus would commonly isolate Himself for the purpose of prayer (Luke 5:15-16, Matthew 14:23)

● Christ’s example of prayer is one we should emulate

● What must we do to ensure private prayer with the Lord?

1. We must _______________ ______________ to pray

● Time in prayer reflects our view of God (Matthew 6:33, Exodus 20:3)

● This takes ______________ and ______________ ______________ (Titus 1:8, 2 Timothy 1:7, Galatians 5:23)

2. We must have a ______________ to pray

● Our prayers, in both purpose and practice, reveal what is going in at the heart level (Matthew 6:5-6)

Why would Jesus need to pray?

● Must understand roles and functions of the Members of the Trinity

1. Jesus _______________ submitted to the _______________ of the Father (John 10:17-18, John 4:31-34, John 5:19, 1 Corinthians 11:3, John 14:30-31, John 6:38)

2. Jesus _______________ and ______________ the will of the Father (John 10:30, Matthew 11:27)

3. The Father is _______________ ______________ with the Son (Mark 1:11, Matthew 17:5)

4. The relationship between the Son and the Father has _______________ since _______________ _______________ (John 17:5)

5. Jesus’ role does not _______________ the _______________ of the three persons of the Trinity (John 10:39-42, John 5:22)

Importance of Jesus praying to God the Father

1. Jesus received _______________ and ______________ from the Father (John 11:41-42)

2. Jesus set an ______________ in His ______________ ______________ (John 17:9, Luke 18:1)

3. Jesus demonstrated further _______________ of the _______________ (Distinct functions with 1 glorious purpose)

Scripture Reading for May 30: Genesis 44

Jesus The Compassionate Healer

(Mark 1:29-34)

Verse 29 & 30

● Simon - Cephas - Peter - Mother-In-Law = ?

● Further marital evidence 1 Corinthians 9:5

● Greek word for wife is ‘gune’ - clear distinctions between woman & wife

● Simon’s mother-in-law was very sick, dire need (Luke 4:38)

Verse 31

● The compassion of Christ is displayed

● Scripture reveals the compassion of Christ in all areas

1. Jesus showed compassion for basic needs (Mark 8:1-2)

2. Jesus showed compassion for emotional needs (Luke 7:13)

3. Jesus showed compassion for spiritual needs (Matthew 9:36)

● In this account we see compassion of a physical nature

● Things to notice about Christ healing

a. The healing Jesus provided was _______________

● He defied all medical expertise of the day

b. The healing Jesus provided was _______________

● Not a process of healing, instead it was immediate (eutheos)

Verse 32-34

● Word travels when there are results (verifiable evidence)

● Healing Jesus performed very different from counterfeit faith healers

● We have reason to have great confidence in Jesus, Healer & Deliverer (Hebrews 4:16)

Scripture Reading for May 23: 1 Peter 3

DEMONstration of Authority

(Mark 1:23-28)

Verse 23-28

3 Major Angles to this event

1. The ____________ of the __________ ___________

2. The ____________ by ____________

3. The ____________ of the _____________

● Difference between Demonology & Christian Demonology

● Reality of present evil (1 Peter 5:8)

● Evil spirit does not cohabitate w/ God in an individual (Romans 8:9-11)

● Significance in the recognition

a. The unclean spirit recognized the ___________ of Jesus

● Demons are not omniscient

b. The unclean spirit recognized the ___________ of Jesus

● Evil spirit giving testimony of who Christ is

● James 2:19, recognition is not submission

● Authority that results in obedient action

● Jesus is victorious (1 Corinthians 15:57, James 4:7)

● Further encounters, same ending (Mark 5:1-7, Matthew 8:28-34)

● Amazement stirred up questions

Scripture Reading for May 16: Genesis 43

Author of Authority
(Mark 1:19-22)

Verse 19

● Family - Zebedee wife Salome, sons James & John (Mark 15:40, Matthew 27:55-56)

● Ordinary men - used by an extraordinary God (Mark 3:17)

Verse 20

● Divine, calculated calling of the disciples (John 15:16)

Verse 21

● Capernaum - a familiar place for the 4 followers

● Synagogue Greek ‘sunagógé meaning to ____________ _____________

Verse 22

● Greek for authority ‘exousia’

● Triune authority extended to the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17, John 17:17, Matthew 24:35, Isaiah 40:8, John 1:1)

● Jesus knew His authority (John 14:6)

Scripture Reading for May 9: 1 Peter 2

Follow The Leader

(Mark 1:16-18)

Verse 16

3 Things to notice

1. Jesus was not just ________ upon these men

2. This would ____ have been the _____ time Jesus saw Andrew & Simon (John 1:35-42)

3. These men were __________ by _____

Verse 17 & 18

● Were the men following someone they didn’t know?

Follow me means?

1. Follow Me means an ________ of _____

● Matthew 16:24, Matthew 6:24, Matthew 10:38, John 10:27

2. Following Christ is an ____ in _________

● Romans 8:29, John 12:26

3. Following Christ is ____ ______

● John 21:18-19

4. Following Christ is an ______ to a ________

● 1 Timothy 2:5, Romans 8:34, 1 John 5:14, John 9:31, John 1:12, John 15:26. Romans 8:26

Fishers of Men

● God determines the results (1 Corinthians 3:6-8)

Scripture Reading for May 2: Genesis 42

The Good News Is Still The Good News
(Mark 1:14-15)

Verse 14

● Why was John The Baptist arrested? (Luke 14:19-20)

● Others' response to biblical truth cannot be predicted, but this does not change our responsibility to share it.

● A wonderful example in John

● Jesus preaches in His hometown (Luke 4:28-30)

● Lesson, don’t take the rejection of truth (gospel) personally (Matthew 10:14, John 15:18-19)

Verse 15

● Greek word for repent is ‘metanoeo’ meaning to change one’s_____ & _______

● Repentance is not __________

● Paul explains this truth in 1 Corinthians 2:14

● Natural man has the same dreadful condition (Jeremiah 17:9)

● No one seeks Him (Romans 3:11) - Thank goodness He seeks us (Luke 19:10)

● The gospel is the message of all of Scripture

● Example (Genesis 1:1, 1 Samuel 2:2, Romans 3:23, Romans 5:12, Isaiah 59:1-2, Romans 6:23, Jeremiah 17:9,

John 14:6, 2 Corinthians 5:21, John 3:16, Romans 6:9, John 3:36, Romans 10:9, 1 John 1:9, John 5:24)

Scripture Reading for April 25: 1 Peter 1

Tempting Situation

(Mark 1:12-13)

Verse 12

● Roles and functions are being displayed

● The Holy Spirit actively ‘ekballo’ (Greek) drove Christ to the wilderness

Verse 13

● Not only was there significance in the location but also in the duration

● Mark is brief on the account - Matthew & Luke much more detailed

● Luke 4:1-13 The temptation of Christ

● In the wilderness fasting (similar to Moses Deuteronomy 9:9)

● God does NOT tempt Christ, the devil does (James 1:13)

Temptations

1. Luke 4:3 Devil’s angle is physical, primal desires (hunger, satisfaction, pride)

● Luke 4:4 Jesus responds using what? (Deuteronomy 8:3)

2. Luke 4:5-7 Devil’s angle is one of power and prestige (but reveals his motive)

● Luke 4:8 Jesus responds in similar fashion (Deuteronomy 6:13)

3. Luke 4:9-11 Devil’s attempts to match wits with Christ (Psalm 91:11-12)

● Luke 4:12 Jesus responds yet again (Deuteronomy 6:16)

● Mark 1:13 Remarkable reference to what significant passage? ____________

● What is our responsibility regarding temptation? (Matthew 26:41, 1 Corinthians 10:13)

● The role of the Holy Spirit in our lives (John 14:26, Romans 8:26)

Scripture Reading for April 18: Genesis 41

All In Attendance

(Mark 1:9-11)

Verse 9

· Geographical humility in Nazareth (Luke 1:26-27, John 1:43-50)

· Although he didn’t feel worthy, John baptized Jesus (Matthew 3:13-15)

Verse 10-11

· Christ served as an example

· Who then should be baptized?

· Is infant baptism appropriate?

· Three main methods of baptism

● In this method water is sprinkled over the individuals head

● In this method water is poured over the individual

● In this method the individual is submerged under water (Mark 1:10. Matthew 3:16, John 3:23, Colossians 2:12)

· Remarkably significant event takes place during baptism of Jesus

· Presence of the Trinity

· Dove (Matthew 10:16)

· Unique phrase “My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 17:5)

Scripture Reading for April 11: James 5

There is no sermon outline for this week.

April 4, 2021 Easter Sunday

Who is Jesus?

Expectations - Luke 19:37-44

● Jesus had a very specific purpose (Luke 19:10, Matthew 1:21)

● Pharisees thought Jesus was a _______ to their agenda (v.39)

● The Sanhedrin council that He was a ________ (Luke 22:70-71)

● Herod thought He was nothing more than a ________ (Luke 23:11-12)

● Pilate thought Jesus was ________ but foolish (Luke 23:13-16)

● The crowd thought He was deserving of ______ (Luke 23:21)

● Cleopas, even after the death of Christ, thought Jesus was a prophet and had hoped He would _______ ________ (Luke 24:18-21)

● Even today there are many false views of who Jesus is.

● Throughout the crucifixion and resurrection what does the Bible reveal about who Christ is?

1. Jesus is _________

● Luke 23:40-41, 1 Peter 2:22, Hebrews 4:15, 1 John 3:5, 2 Corinthians 5:21

2. Jesus Christ is _________

● Luke 19:41-44, Luke 23:43, Luke 22:31-34, John 13:19-30

3. Jesus is the _________ of __________

● Prophecy: 28:14 = Fulfillment: Luke 3:34

● Prophecy: Isaiah 7:14 = Fulfillment: Luke 1:35

● Prophecy: Isaiah 40:3-4 = Fulfillment: Mark 1:2-3

● Prophecy: Zechariah 9:9 = Fulfillment: Matthew 21:5

● Prophecy: Zechariah 11:12-13 = Matthew 26:14-16

● Prophecy: Leviticus 17:3 = Fulfillment: Matthew 28:16

4. Jesus is the ______ and _________ ________ sacrifice for sin

● Greek word for propitiation ‘hilasmos’ means ________

● 1 John 4:10, John 28:30 (finality), Romans 3:25, Hebrews 2:17, 1 John 2:2

● Great explanation from Paul in Romans 5:6-10

5. Jesus is ________

● Luke 24:6-7, Revelation 1:17-18, Romans 8:34

He is risen, Praise the Lord!

Scripture Reading for March 28: Genesis 40

Baptized In The Spirit

(Mark 1:5-8)

Verse 5

● News traveled about what John The Baptist was doing

● John baptized upon individual’s profession of repentance

● Forgiveness of sin - reason Jesus was coming (Luke 19:10, 1 Timothy 1:15, Matthew 9:13)

Verse 6

● Would have looked similar to ________ (2 Kings 1:7-8)

● Some misconceptions of who John was (Malachi 4:5, Luke 1:17, John 1:19-21, Matthew 11:9, Deuteronomy 18:18)

● Dietary normalcy according to Levitical/Mosaic Law (Leviticus 11:20-22)

Verse 7

● Humility of John (lower self/elevate Christ even in light of Matthew 11:11)

● John was a good example in many ways (1 Corinthians 1:31, 1 Peter 5:5)

Verse 8

Main takeaways

1. John’s baptism was a _______ baptism than Jesus would provide

● Acts 19:1-5

2. Baptism of the _______ ______ is absolutely essential in _______

● Acts 2:38, Romans 6:3-4

3. Water baptism is _________ by God

● Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:41, Acts 8:12

Scripture Reading for March 21: James 4

The Gravity Of Repentance

(Mark 1:2-4)

Verse 2 & 3

● Mark recognizes the OT as authority (this would have been what Mark had as the Word of God)

● Romans Road (NT) vs. Jerusalem Road (OT)

Fact of sin - Romans 3:23 (NT) / Ecclesiastes 7:20 (OT)

Result of sin - Romans 6:23 (NT) / Ezekiel 18:4 (OT)

God’s provisions - Romans 5:8 (NT) / Isaiah 53:6 (OT)

Man’s response - Romans 10:9-10, 13 (NT) / Psalm 2:12 (OT)

● Mark references both Isaiah 40:3 as well as Malachi 3:1

● Who is this messenger that is to pave the way for Christ? (John 1:6-9)

● A voice crying out in the wilderness (Matthew 3:1)

● John The Baptist was special (Luke 1:15) to the plan of redemption (Ephesians 1:7)

Verse 4

● Greek word for baptize is ‘baptizo’ literally meaning to make fully ____ or ablution (washing or _______)

● Repentance preceded baptism and still precedes baptism

● John did NOT teach that baptism was merely an act that earned special favor with God (Luke 3:7)

● It was an outward expression of an inward work of God

● John The Baptist preached/proclaimed a message of repentance

● Jesus Christ preached a message of repentance (Matthew 4:17, Luke 13:3, Luke 5:32)

● Greek word for repentance is ‘metanoia’ which means change of ______ or _________

● Those who followed Jesus preached repentance as well (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19, Romans 2:4, 2 Corinthians 7:9-11)

Scripture Reading for March 14: Genesis 39

One Goal In Mind

(Mark 1:1)

Introduction

● What do we know about the author?

● Mark was the son of _____ (Acts 12:12) whose home provided a safe place for ______ to retreat to

● Mark was the __________ gospel writer

● Mark uses the Greek word ‘euthus’, which means ________ 42 times, more than the other 3 gospels combined

● Mark was known as _______’s interpreter

● Shared similarities between Mark and _______. Two major likenesses

1. Both men struggled with ministry at times (Acts 15:37-40, Luke 22:54-62)

2. Both men were restored, reestablishing them into usefulness in ministry (Philemon 1:23-24, 2 Timothy 4:11, John 21:15-19)

Synoptic Gospel Audience

● Matthew - ________

● Luke - ________

● Mark - _________

Verse 1

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

● The gospel message of Jesus Christ is the message of _________

● The Greek word for the gospel is ‘euaggelion’ meaning good news Romans 1:9-10, 1 Peter 4:17)

● Son of God - Specific role yet equal to the Father & Holy Spirit (Isaiah 9:6, John 10:30,38)

● Mandatory understanding (John 3:18)

Scripture Reading for March 7: James 3

Doing The Work Of An Evangelist

(James 5:19-20)

● Interpretive challenge - Who is James speaking to? Who is James speaking about?

● Our God of salvation requires change, change that He elicits

● This is an evangelical passage

Verse 19

● Evidence of audience - my brothers (1 Corinthians 2:1)

● False converts - did this happen? Does this still happen? (Matthew 7:21-23, Matthew 25:11-12

● Jesus commands love through action (John 14:15)

● Wandering - Greek word ‘planaō’ verb used in scripture 24 times for _______, 6 times for ____, and 5 times for __ _________

● From the truth - What is the truth? (John 18:37)

● Two main things that cause one to wander from the truth

1. ______ teaching/______ doctrine (Ephesians 4:11-14)

2. __________ (2 Corinthians 12:10)

Verse 20

● Who can bring back one who wanders from the truth?

● Sinners - Greek word ‘hamartolos’ these are individuals who are ________ by their sin (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)

● Believers are defined by God (John 1:12, 2 Corinthians 5:17)

● Covers a multitude of sins (Romans 2:5, 1 Peter 4:8)

Scripture Reading for February 28: Genesis 38

Faithful Prayer, Faithful God - Part 3

(James 5:16-18)

Verse 16

● ‘Therefore’ - the truth of verse 13-15 leads to this command

● Unique Greek word for sin ‘paraptōma’ meaning __________ or _______

● Typically for sin we see the Greek word ‘hamartia’ meaning miss the _______(Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Matthew 1:21)

Benefits to sharing our sins, struggles, faults with fellow brothers/sisters in Christ

1. We _______ the Body of Christ in a way that ______ God’s _______

● Ephesians 4:16, 1 Corinthians 12:14, 1 Corinthians 12:26

2. Confessing sin fosters ___________, _________, and _______

● Proverbs 27:17, Galatians 6:1-2

● Not to be done in lieu of confessing sins to the Lord (Romans 10:9)

● ‘You will be healed’ - Contextual consistency in mind, healing of the sickness that corresponds. (Remember ‘astheneo’?)

● ‘Prayer of the righteous’ - Imputed Righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21, Philippians 3:9)

Verse 17

● Nature? Jeremiah 17:9, Romans 5:21

● He prayed fervently - Hebraism, Greek meaning ‘he prayed with _____’

Verse 18

● A drought/famine was foretold (Leviticus 26:18-19) leading up to 1 Kings 17:1

● Through prayer God brought back both rain & wandering people (1 Kings 18:41-46, Luke 4:25)

Scripture Reading for February 21: James 2

Faithful Prayer, Faithful God - Part 2

(James 5:15)

Verse 15

● Needs to be viewed in context and in conjunction with James 5:13-14

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick

● ‘And’ is important, tying all implication of v.15 intimately to v.13-14

● The prayer of faith - trusting in the Lord’s power through ________(Psalm 37:5)

● This is not a personal measure of faith one earns (dangerous false teachings of WOF & NAR movements)

● Will save the one who is sick - Sick, is it ‘astheneo’ or ‘arrostos’?

● Sick Greek word ‘kamno’ (verb) meaning to grow weak or weary from ______ or _______ (unequally used only 3 times James 5:15, Hebrews 12:3, Revelation 2:3)

● Will save Greek word ‘sozo’ to preserve, ______, _______ (primary use is in salvation)

● How do we know James is not talking about salvation in this verse?

And the Lord will raise him up

● Raise up - Greek ‘egeiro’ meaning to _______ or __________

● The focus is on the importance of prayer, the results exhibit the power of God

● False teachers twist/distort scripture, often times James 5:15

● What out for these wolves

● We must understand the sovereignty of God in all things, including prayer (Psalm 115:3, Matthew 10:29-30, Colossians 1:16-17)

● 2 Corinthians 8:9 clarified and supported by Ephesians 2:1-9

And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven

● Context shows this is restoration not rebirth

● 1 John 5:14-15 the will of God prevails and we should be grateful it does

Scripture Reading for February 14: Genesis 37

Faithful Prayer, Faithful God - Part 1

(James 5:13-14)

Verse 13

● Is anyone among you suffering?

● Greek for suffering ‘kakapatheo’ means undergo ______, endure _______

● Persecution/trials/suffering to be expected for believers

● Let him pray

● Prayer is the focus - major theme

● Understanding Savior (John 15:18)

● Call for a prayers of petition/supplication

● Is anyone cheerful?

● Very different emotional state

● Let him sing praise

● Prayer of praise

● Praying in all circumstances (Philippians 4:6)

Verse 14

● Is anyone among you sick?

● Greek word for sick ‘astheneo’ which means ______ or ________(Romans 14:1, 1 Corinthians 8:9, 2 Corinthians 11:20-21

● Second Greek word for sick ‘arrostos’ meaning those who are defined as ____ (Matthew 4:14)

● Let them call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him,

● Elders - who initiates call for prayer?

● Role and function of elders (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9, Acts 20:28-30)

● Praying over does not make them mediators (1 Timothy 2:5)

● Anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord

● Anointing - Greek ‘aleipho’ means literally to ____ with oil (Luke 7:38)

● Second Greek word for anointing ‘chrio’ meaning to ______ or set apart (Acts 10:38, 2 Corinthians 1:21, 1 John 2:20)

● Two camps of interpretation worth considering

1. Literal

2. Metaphorical/symbolism (1 Samuel 16:13, Isaiah 61:1) connection between oil and ________

● But this passage is not about the oil

● Roman Catholic error called ________ ________

● In the name of the Lord

● Focus and source of any and all healing

Scripture Reading for February 7: James 1

No Need To Swear
(James 5:12)

Verse 12

● ‘But, above all’ significance in this phrase - singling out an important lesson

● Above All - used in OT to describe Israel (Deuteronomy 7:14, 10:15, 26:19, 28:1), as well as describing superior attributes (Colossians 3:4, 1 Peter 4:8)

● Interpretive tendency - Do not curse or use profanity (Ephesians 4:29, 5:4, James 3:10)

● James 5:12 the word swear - Greek ‘omnuō’ meaning _____, _______, or make an ______ (Hebrews 6:13-16)

● Greek word meaning cursing or imprecation is ‘katara’

● Hermeneutical elements help decipher correct interpretation

● Irresponsible swearing/claims (Matthew 5:33-4)

● Examples of appropriate vows

● Swearing is unnecessary - Let your Yes be Yes and your No be No (Matthew 5:37)

● Be a man/woman of your word (Numbers 30:1-2, 1 Corinthians 4:2. Luke 16:10)

● Judgement is coming - Great White Throne (Revelation 20:12-13) Judgement Seat (Bema) of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10)

Scripture Reading for January 31: Genesis 36

Valuable Examples
(James 5:10-11)

Verse 10

● Faithful Forefathers (Matthew 5:12)

● Prophets of patience through suffering - Who comes to mind?

Verse 11

● Highlighting the steadfastness of Job amid great trials (Job 1:21)

● James builds upon earlier teaching (James 1:12)

● Steadfastness is not easy, it takes diligence and action (1 Corinthians 5:18, James 1:2-4, 2 Peter 5:1-8)

● Steadfastness of the Lord (Psalm 118:1, Lamentation 3:22-23, Deuteronomy 7:9)

● The Lord is compassionate/merciful in salvation (Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:24)

● The Lord if compassionate/merciful in securing us (Philippians 1:16, Psalm 145:20, John 6:37, John 10:28)

● What do we do with this? What is our responsibility? (Luke 6:36, Colossians 3:12)

Scripture Reading for January 24: Hebrews 13

Establishing A Heart Of Patience

(James 5:7-9)

Verse 7

● James sets a timeframe for the pursuit of patience - Until the Lord returns

● Instruction of James pointed to right living in the present, with an eternal gaze at what will come (James 1:12, 2:13, 4:12, 5:7)

● Patience is an important element of preparedness (Galatians 5:22, Psalm 27:14, Colossians 1:9-12, Ephesians 4:1-3)

● Lord will return for the harvest in His timing

Verse 8

● Patience is a matter of the heart (Proverbs 27:19)

● Patience acknowledges trust in the Lord (He knows what He’s doing) - John 14:1-3

Verse 9

● Patience is to Godly character as impatience is to ……..(I think you get the idea)

● Grumbling contradicts a changed life/new creation (Philippians 2:14-16)

● Who and what has God called us to be? (Colossians 1:22-23)

● The will of God (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Scripture Reading for January 17: Genesis 35

Progression Of Indulgence

(James 5:4-6)

Verse 4

● The book of James is a series of tests that serve to validate the genuineness of one’s faith

● Seeking riches or being content in Christ - This is a test

● Not paying hired labor stems from a deceitful heart of greed (Leviticus 19:11-13, Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Malachi 3:5)

● Lord of Hosts - Lord of Sabaoth (Hebrew for _______) used over ____ X in OT

Verse 5

● The wicked heart of self indulgence (Matthew 23:25, 1 Timothy 5:6)

● God desires self denial (Luke 9:23-24)

Verse 6

● Interpretive challenge - divided take on authorial intent

● One camp the betrayal and subsequent death of Christ (Acts 3:14-15, Acts 7:52)

● Other camp more accurately uses context to support intent (Continued teaching)

Scripture Reading for January 10: Hebrews 12

Proper Preparedness

(James 5:1-3)

Verse 1

● Unhealthy error of desiring wealth (1 Timothy 6:9-10, Matthew 19:24)

● Treasure denotes a desire and servanthood from the heart (Matthew 6:21,6:24)

● Desire for riches is not isolated to the wealthy

● Knowing two masters cannot be served simultaneously, a choice is to be made (Mark 4:18-19)

Verse 2

● Who determines the wealth of something?

● How important is the treasure of the kingdom of heaven? (Matthew 13:44)

Verse 3

● Like the corroding of metals, the pursuit of riches will destroy the person

● In these last days - James, Paul, us? What are we to make of this? (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

● We are not called to play a game of pick the date (Matthew 24:36)

● Jesus willingly laid aside the ability to know the hour and day - FOR A TIME (Philippians 2:6-8, Romans 8:34, Matthew 28:18)

● Be prepared, be ready, Jesus taught it, James reaffirmed it (Matthew 24:44)

● How are you preparing?

Scripture Reading for January 3: Genesis 34

Omission Condition

(James 4:15-17)

Recap

● James rebukes arrogance of any endeavor without God’s guidance (v. 13-14)

Verse 15

● Encouragement to seek the will of God (Proverbs 3:5-6, Matthew 6:9-13)

● Believers should desire the will of God above all else

● Apostle Paul recognized God’s will (Romans 1:10, 1 Corinthians 4:19, 16:7)

● We are not ignorant to the will of God (Romans 12:2)

● Scripture explains elements of the will of God

1. God’s will is for His children to be a ___________ people (Colossians 3:17)

2. God’s will is for His children to be obedient and ______ to God appointed ________ in our lives (1 Peter 2:12-15, Romans 13:1-2)

3. God’s will is for His children to ______ _______ purity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4)

● God’s will is that we honor Him by doing what pleases Him. So what pleases God?

1. God is pleased by our ______ to His _______ (1 John 3:22)

2. God is pleased when we are ______ and ______ (Hebrews 13:16)

3. God is pleased when we bear _____ and grow in our ________ of Him (Colossians 1:10)

Verse 16

● Present tense reveals a known problem

● James rebukes wrong behavior (Proverbs 27:1)

Verse 17

● 2 Primary classifications of sin

1. Commission - This is doing what God has _______ us not to do

● This encompasses any _____(Matthew 5:21-22), _____(Proverbs 15:1) or ____(Exodus 20:13) that breaks God’s perfect standard

2. Omission - Not doing what God _____ us to do (Luke 10:30-37)

● Ring in the New Year with the anthem of God’s Word Hebrews 13:20-21

Scripture Reading for December 27: Hebrews 11

Sovereign Travel Guide
(James 4:13-14)

Verse 13

· Planning is not a bad thing (Proverbs 21:5, Luke 14:28)

· God’s sovereign plan is not to be thwarted (John 21:18-22)

· God operates under His timing, not ours (Habakkuk 1:1-5, 2 Peter 3:9)

Verse 14

· God determines our path (Acts 17:26-28, Psalm 16:9, Psalm 32:8)

· He is honored as we seek His guidance and direction (John 12:26)

Scripture Reading for December 20: Luke 2:1 – 21

Deity In The Flesh Part 2

(Luke 2)

Luke 2:11

Jesus Christ is __________

● Grammatical - tense is critical here

● Not subjective (1 Timothy 4:10, John 14:6, Acts 4:12)

● The condition of man does not change the character of Christ (deity)

● Savior purpose (Luke 19:10, Matthew 9:12-13, 1 Timothy 1:15)

Luke 2:14

Jesus Christ is the _________________

● Did Jesus establish world peace?

● Worldly peace is subjective, peace in Christ is objective

● Peace in Christ (Isaiah 9:6. 2 Thessalonians 2:16, Philippians 4:6-7)

● Distinction made - So who pleases God? (Hebrews 11:6, Romans 8:8, Romans 12:1-2)

● Peace in Christ is opposition to the world (Matthew 10:34, John 16:33)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________-

Scripture Reading for December 13: Luke 1

Deity In The Flesh Part 1
(Luke 1)

What does Luke’s account reveal of the deity of Jesus Christ?

1:32 ___________________

● Equality with God the Father (Philippians 2:5-7, John 5:18, John 14:9, John 10:30)

1:33 __________

● Was not created, rather the Creator (1 Corinthians 8:6, John 8:58)

● Immutable (Hebrews 13:8)

1:32-33 ________

● Unmatched Kingdom (John 18:36, 1 Timothy 6Hebrews 11:15, Revelation 19:16)

1:35 ______

● Greek word ‘hagios’ meaning set apart, sacred, sanctified (Mark 1:24, Acts 3:14, 1 Peter 1:15-16)

1:76 ________

● Greek word ‘kurios’ meaning master or supreme in authority (Revelation 19:16, Philippians 2:11, Romans 10:9, 2 Corinthians 4:5)

Scripture Reading for December 6: Genesis 33

The Judge And The Jury

(James 4:11-12)

Verse 11

● Addressing sin in the body is not what James is talking about (Galatians 6:1, 1 Timothy 5:20, Matthew 18:15)

● Slander and defamation is not honoring to God (Leviticus 19:16-18, Mark 12:30-31)

● Obedience to God’s commands has implications to our relationship with Him (John 14:15, John 14:23, Luke 11:28)

Verse 12

● The Lawgiver and Judge is _____ (Isaiah 33:22, Psalm 7:11)

● Jesus expounded upon the law, addressing matters of the ______ (John 13:34-26)

● He is able to save (John 6:44, Romans 10:9, John 5:24)

● He is able to destroy (John 3:36, Matthew 13:41-42)

Scripture Reading for November 29: Hebrews 10

Precise Prescription Part 2
(James 4:7-10)

Verse 9

6. Be Wretched

● Apostle Paul recognized his wretchedness (Romans 7:24, 1 Corinthians 15:9, Ephesians 3:8, 1 Timothy 1:15)

● He also understood position in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 2:10, Romans 8:1)

● God draws wretched men to redemption (John 6:44)

● Struggle with sin (Romans 7:14-20) both believers (target audience) and unbelievers (Jeremiah 17:9)

7. Mourn

● Greek ‘penteo’ means to _________

● Grieving brought about through salvation (2 Corinthians 7:10, Matthew 5:4, Psalm 51:17)

8. Weep

● Greek ‘klaio’ means to ____ or ______ (Matthew 26:75, Mark 5:38)

9. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom

● Making light of sin is a serious offense (1 Corinthians 13:6)

● Similar to Luke 6:25, opposite of Luke 6:21

Verse 10

10. Humble yourselves before the Lord

● Humility is the removal of pride (James 4:6)

● Example in Christ (Philippians 2:1-11)

Scripture Reader for November 22: Genesis 32

Precise Prescription Part 1
(James 4:7-10)

Verse 7

● Who is James depicting?

● Greek for sinners ‘hamartōlos’ someone devoted to ____ (Mark 2:17, Matthew 26:45, Romans 5:8)

1. Submit yourselves therefore to God (Ephesians 5:24, Hebrews 13:17, Ephesians 5:21)

2. Resist the devil

● Congruent message in 1 Peter 5:5-9

● Promise - he will flee

3. Draw near to God

● Embrace the put ons (Galatians 3:27, Colossians 3:9-10, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 4:24)

● The promise - He will draw near to you

4. Cleanse your hands

● OT reference (Exodus 30:19-21)

5. Purify your hearts

● Regeneration (Titus 3:4-7. Ezekiel 36:26)

Scripture for November 15: Hebrews 9

Disqualifying Pride
(James 4:6)

Verse 6

But He gives more grace

● James 4:1-5 - Fights, quarrels, improper passions, internal war, murder, covetousness,

spiritual unfaithfulness (adultery), enmity with God - BUT, He gives more grace

● God’s grace - Ephesians 2:8-9 (2 things to notice about God’s grace)

1. God’s grace has _______ ________

2. God’s grace is a _______ (Romans 11:6)

● God’s grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9, 1 Corinthians 15:10)

● Saving grace changes who we are (2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 2:20, Ezekiel 19-20)

Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

● Proverbs 3:34 (Reference James uses)

● Pride is at the root of every sin (James 4:1-5)

● Pride runs in opposition to God (Proverbs 11:2, Philippians 2:3, Proverbs 16:8)

● Being a follower of Christ requires humility (Psalm 25:9, Colossians 3:12-13, Ephesians 4:1-3)

● Grace brings about humility

● Are we spreading a message of humility in grace or one of pride?

Scripture Reading for November 8: Genesis 31

Antithetical Allegiances
(James 4:3-5)

Verse 3

● Can be applied to 2 groups of people

1. ___________(Luke 18:9-14) having wrong heart

2. __________(Isaiah 59:2) concealing unrepentant sin

● The Lord looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7, Proverbs 21:2, Jeremiah 17:10, Romans 8:27, Acts 15:8, Psalm 32:1-4)

Verse 4

● Spiritual unfaithfulness

● Friendship with the world opposes God (1 John 2:15-17, John 15:8, Romans 12:2, John 18:36, John 16:33, 1 John 5:19)

Verse 5

● Interpretive challenge -two interpretive avenues

1. He (___) yearns jealously over the spirit (____________) that He has made to dwell in us (________/_________)

2. He (____) yearns jealously over the spirit (_________) that He has made to dwell in us (________)

● Similarities - Jealous God (Exodus 20:4, 34:14, Deuteronomy 4:24, 5:9, 6:15, Joshua 24:19, Nahum 1:2)

● Differences -

Scripture Reading for November 1: Hebrews 8

Ineffectual Profession
(James 4:1-2)

Verse 1

● Why would James ask this question?

● Who exactly is he referring to? (Mark 4:16-19, 1 John 2:19, Matthew 24:9-10, Matthew 15:8-9, Isaiah 29:13)

Verse 2

● Multiplication of sin. Unhealthy desire to murder includes _________, _________, ___________, ________, ___________, __________

● Not desires from the Lord (James 1:13-14)

● Unhealthy desires are insatiable (John 4:13-14)

● You do not ask - Does God hear the prayers of an unbeliever? (Psalm 34:15, John 9:31, Psalm 66:18, Isaiah 59:2)

● By the grace of God there is one prayer that when prayed from a sincere heart is always heard. (1 John 1:9)

● What message are we proclaiming?

● Is it the same message Jesus taught? ______(Matthew 3:2, 4:7, Mark 1:5, Luke 13:3-5)

● ________ (John 14:15, Luke 6:46)

● Counting the cost (Luke 14:26-33)

Scripture Reading for October 25: Genesis 30

Opposing Wisdoms
(James 3:13-18)

Verse 13

● Godly wisdom shown in two ways

1. Good Conduct (Ephesians 2:10, James 2:26)
2. Works Done In Meekness (Titus 3:1-2)

Verse 14

● Wrong heart motives

1. Bitter Jealousy (Hebrews 12:15, 1 Corinthians 3:3)
2. Selfish Ambition (Philippians 2:3-4, 2 Timothy 3:2)

Verse 15

●      Earthly wisdom is not wisdom from above
●      Character of God is shown in the wisdom of God
●      1 John 4:8 God is ______
●      2 Peter 3:9 God is ________
●      1 John 1:5 God is _______
●      Hebrews 4:16 God is full of _____ and _______
●      Psalm 145:17 God is __________
●      1 Samuel 2:2 God is ________

Wisdom not of God
●      Earthly - Romans 12:2, John 17:4, 1 John 5:19
●      Unspiritual - 1 Corinthians 2:14
●      Demonic - Says it all

Verse 16

● Earthly wisdom alone will always fail in eternal matters

Verse 17

1.     Pure - 1 John 3:3, Philippians 4:8
2.     Peaceable - John 16:33, Philippians 4:7
3.     Gentle - Titus 3:2, Ephesians 4:2
4.     Open To Reason - obedience James 1:22
5.     Mercy - Ephesians 2:4, Luke 6:36
6.     Good Fruits - Matthew 7:20
7.     Impartial - James 2:1
8.     Sincere - Real wisdom

Verse 18

● Rest in the peace of God through the wisdom of God

Scripture Reading for October 18: Hebrews 7

Tongue In Cheek Part 2
(James 3:5b-12)

Verse 5b

● Damage the tongue produces are akin to that of a wildfire

Verse 6

● Hell - Greek word ‘Gehenna’ used to describe the ________of ________

● 2 Chronicles 28:3, 2 Chronicles 33:6 OT Reference

● Matthew 10:28, Mark 9:47, Luke 12:5 NT Reference

Verse 7

● Mankind’s rule over the animals (Genesis 1:28)

Verse 8

● God’s grace allows us to be able to use our tongue for honoring Him (Romans 12:1)

Verse 9 & 10

● Hypocrisy of selective love (1 John 4:7, 1 John 4:20)

Verse 11

● Two key understandings

1. _________ (James 1:17)

2. _________ (2 Corinthians 6:15)

Verse 12

● If we profess Christ, then we should ______ ______ __ (Ephesians 5:18)

Scripture Reading for October 11: Genesis 29

Tongue and Cheek
(James 3:2-5)

Verse 2

●      Inevitability of struggles and stumbles (John 16:33, Philippians 2:12-13)
●      Absurdity of perfection (Romans 3:23, Romans 3:10)
●      The tongue is an overflow of the heart (Luke 6:45)

Verse 3

● Power of a horse is harnessed by the effectiveness of the bit

Verse 4

● Tongue has Titanic power

Verse 5

● Responsibility of our tongue

Negative Results

1.     ________ (Exodus 20:16, Proverbs 6:16-19, Proverbs 12:12, Colossians 3:9-10)
2.     _________ (1 Peter 2:1, Ephesians 4:31-32, Mark 7:20-23
3.     _________ words and ________ (Matthew 12:36)

Positive Results

1.     ________ the ________ (Ephesians 4:15, 1 Timothy 3:15, Romans 10:14)
2.     ________ and ________ (1 Thessalonians 5:11, Romans 15:2)
3.     _______ God (Colossians 3:16, Psalm 95:1-2)

Scripture for October 4: Hebrews 6

Grading The Teacher

(James 3:1)

Verse 1

● Teacher - Greek word ‘didaskalos’ meaning master or instructor

● Specific role (Ephesians 4:11, 2 Timothy 1:11)

● James includes himself as a teacher

● Teachers, one component of functioning body (1 Corinthians 12:14-20)

● 5 Characteristics that make a good teacher/preacher of the word of God

1. They must be _________ (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

● Importance of the local church (Ephesians 4:12)

● Ongoing endeavor (2 Peter 3:17-18)

2. They must teach and preach with _________ (James 4:6)

3. They must be an _______, not an _________ (1 Timothy 4:12, 1 Peter 5:3, Titus 2:7-8)

4. Must teach and preach ___ _______ (1 Timothy 1:5, 1 Corinthians 16:14)

5. Must be _____ and not _________ (Ephesians 6:19-20)

We who teach will be judged with greater strictness

● Importance of rightly handling the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15)

● The usefulness of our work (1 Corinthians 3:14-15)

Scripture Reading for September 27: Genesis 28

Revealing Faith Through Hiding Spies

(James 2:24-26)

Verse 24

● Salvation is justified by faith - faith is made useful through works

● Necessary combination of faith and works (Romans 5:1, Titus 3:4-7)

● Titus 3:4-7 Attributes of God shown in salvation

1. ___________ (Psalm 31:19)

2. _________ _________ (Psalm 17:7)

3. God is our ________(1 Timothy 1:1, 2:3, 4:10, Titus 1:3,4, 2:10,13, 3:4

4. He ________ us (Ephesians 2:8)

5. He does _____, not because of our ________(Ephesians 2:9)

6. ______ of God (Ephesians 2:4-5)

7. Washing of ________ (Ezekiel 36:26, 1 John 1:7)

8. Renewal of _______ _______ (Romans 8:2)

9. He poured out richly through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:7-9)

● Works based religions ______, _______, ________

Verse 25

● Rahab’s actions were a product of her faith

● God used the downtrodden of society to accomplish His will

Verse 26

● Real, genuine, useful, saving faith will produce good works

Scripture Reading for September 20: Hebrews 5

Faith Of A Patriarch….Or Works?
(James 2:18-23)

Verse 18

● The battle - Faith vs. Works, or is there another option?

● Works began the moment of salvation

1. ___________

2. ___________

3. ___________

Verse 19

● Reference Deuteronomy 6:4 - Verses 4-9 known as the ________ to the Jews, which is Hebrew for _________

● God is One - Hebrew 'echâd’ which means _______

● Not about the Trinity, rather about exclusivity (Isaiah 43:10)

● Demons Shudder - Matthew 8:29 is 3 part recognition

1. Recognized Jesus as the _______________

2. Recognized the superior ________ of God

3. Recognized future __________

Verse 20

● Faith by itself is as useless as works by themselves

Verse 21

● Martin Luther understood Pauline teachings (Romans 3:23, 4:1-4, 5:1)

● Clearing up the confusion (Galatians 2:16)

● So what really happened with Abraham?

Verse 22

● Active Faith = Good Works Dead Faith = Useless Works

Verse 23

● Friend of God (2 Chronicles 20:7)

● God gets glory in true faith and good works (Matthew 5:16, Ephesians 2:10)

Scripture Reading for September 13: Genesis 27

Dead Faith

(James 2:14-17)

Dead Faith

● Faith that is not accompanied by good works

True Saving Faith

● Works are a manifestation (by product) of genuine faith

● James has been pointing these validating actions out all along the way

1. Remaining ________ under trials and tests (James 1:2-4, 1:12)

2. Resisting _________ (James 1:13-15)

3. Being not only _________ but also _________ (James 1:22-25)

4. _______ our tongue (James 1:26)

5. Caring for _________ and ________ (James 1:27)

6. Showing no _________ (James 2:1-13)

Can someone have a Faith in God that does not save?

● John 2:23-25, John 3:1-2, Matthew 7:21

Can someone have Saving Faith but not have good works?

● Hypocrites (James 2:15-16)

● No fruit, no change, no difference, this kind of life is not honoring to God

Scripture Reading for September 6: Hebrews 4

The Danger Of Partiality Part 2
(James 2:5-13)

Verse 5

● What does being rich in faith give you that earthly riches do not?

1.     True __________ _________ (Romans 15:13, 1 Peter 1:3)
2.     _________ __________ (1 John 2:24, 1 Corinthians 2:9)
3.     ___________ (Hebrews 13:5)
4.     Unmatched _________

● ________ of the kingdom (James 2:5)

● ________ (1 Peter 2:5, 2:9, Revelation 1:6)

● __________ of God (Romans 8:4, John 1:12, 1 John 3:1)

● __________ (Titus 2:14, Galatians 2:20)

● ________ (Romans 1:17, 1 Corinthians 1:12)

Verse 6

● BUT, showing partiality is contrary to Godly character

● Seeking riches spares no expense

Verse 7

● Why cater to those who oppose?

Verse 8

● Royal Law - Greek ‘basilikon’ best understood as ________ or connected with the _______

● Love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18, Mark 12:31, John 13:34)

Verse 9

● God’s law reveals transgressions & God deals with the outcome (Deuteronomy 1:17)

Verse 10

● Universality of sin (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8, Ecclesiastes 7:20)

Verse 11

● 10 Commandments - Exodus 20

Verse 12

● James 1:25 Law of liberty liberates us from the ______ of ____

Verse 13

● God is merciful

● God is also a Just Judge (Psalm 7:11)

● If mercy has been given to you, be a doer and show mercy to others

Scripture Reading for August 30: Genesis 26

The Danger Of Partiality Part 1

(James 2:1-4)

Verse 1

● My brothers (defining audience, important to context)

● Show no partiality, contradictory to Godly character

● God does not show partiality (Romans 2:9-11, Deuteronomy 10:17, Acts 10:34-35, Leviticus 19:15)

● Partiality is shown because of age, race, gender, economic status, family, social status, education, etc.

● Jews should have understood this (Deuteronomy 7:6-7)

Verse 2

● Two characters of very different appearance

Verse 3

● Response created from appearance

Verse 4

● Jesus looked at the motive of the heart (Mark 12:41-44) and so should we

Scripture Reading for August 23: Hebrews 3

Caring About What God Cares About

(James 1:27)

Verse 27

● Pure - Godly product (2 Timothy 2:22, Titus 1:15)

● Orphans and widows - Visit?

● Greek word for visit is ‘episkeptomai’ means to _________ or _________ for the purpose of _________ for one’s ___________ (Hebrews 2:6)

● This is an action. Continuation of being a doer and not just a hearer.

● Orphans and widows - vulnerability - Compassion of God (Isaiah 1:17, Psalm 82:3, Psalm 146:9)

● God has adopted us (Ephesians 1:5, Galatians 4:4-7)

● Unstained from the world (1 John 2:15, John 15:19, Romans 12:2, Johon 18:36)

Scripture Reading for August 16: Genesis 25

Reflecting Christ
(James 1:23-26)

Verse 23

● A purposeful gaze from an unbiased source
● Greek ‘katanoeo' means ______, ________ or ___________

Verse 24

● Absurdity ties into verse 22
● Not logical

Verse 25

●      What is the perfect law?
●      God's word is freedom for those who are hearers and doers (Galatians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:16, John 8:30-38)
●      Blessings come through God being exalted not self glorification

Verse 26

●      Being religious will not __________ you! (Acts 26:4-5)
●      Did Jesus teach people to be religious? (Matthew 4:17, Luke 13:3, Luke 5:32, Mark 1:15)
●      Strong biblical emphasis on the tongue (our words) - (Proverbs 21:23, Ephesians 4:29, Psalm 141:3)
●      Bridling one's tongue is a mark of being self controlled (Galatians 5:22-23)
●      Deception of strange doctrine (Colossians 2:8, Romans 16:17-18, 2 Timothy 3:13)
●      Universal error of Universalism (John 14:6)

Scripture Reading for August 9: Hebrews 2

A Call To Action Part 2
(James 1:22)

Verse 22

1. What Does This Say About God's Word

●      God's word is more than useful, it is vital (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
●      God's word is a call to action (John 21 Restoration of Peter)
●      We are workers for the Lord (2 Timothy 4:5)
●      Matthew 28:16-20 The Great Commission - command to perform not just hear
●      Love in action (1 John 3:18)
●      Being a hearer and not a doer is failure to act, which is ______(James 4:17)
●      God's Word Commands Action

2. What Does This Say About The Church?

●      Who or what is the church/body/bride? (Romans 12:4-5, 1 Corinthians 12:27, Ephesians 5:25-27)
●      Growing through hearing and doing (Acts 2:42)
●      We herald, defend and support the truth (1 Timothy 3:15)

Several Functions Of The Church (Notice the actions)

1.     The church is to equip the saints for ministry (Ephesians 4:10-12)
2.     The church has a responsibility to care for the poor (1 John 3:17-18, Proverbs 21:13)
3.     Share the gospel and reach the lost (Acts 1:8)
4.     Function as a cohesive and unified body for the glory of the Lord (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
5.     To be lights in a dark world (Matthew 5:14-16, Ephesians 5:8)
6.     Pray for, edify and uphold one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11, Romans 12:15)

● The church is a collection of hearers who are also doers.

Scripture Reading for August 2: Genesis 24

A Call To Action Part 1
(James 1:22)

Verse 22

1. What Does This Say About God

●     Luke 6:46 - Acknowledging the Lord for who He is, a God of action
●     John 14:36 - Requirements are made by God
●     Ephesians 2:8-9 - The God of salvation
●     1 John 1:9 - The God of forgiveness
●     Titus 3:5 - The God of Mercy
●     2 Corinthians 5:17 / Galatians 2:20 - The giver of new life
●     Matthew 4:4 - The God of provision
●     God is a God of action
●     What do our actions say about God?

2. What does this say about us

●     Matthew 7:15-20 - Are we bearing fruit, how do we know?
●     Momentary stumbles or life of sinful rebellion?
●     Living testimony or walking contradiction? Romans 12:1

Scripture Reading for July 26, 2020: Hebrews 1

The Proper Approach To Scripture
(James 1:19-21)

Verse 19

●     Quick to hear - Put on (Hebrews 10:14, Matthew 11:15, Romans 10:17, Matthew 13:13-15, John 8:47, Psalm 17:4)
●     Slow to speak - Put off (Proverbs 25:28, 2 Timothy 1:7, Proverbs 21:23, Ephesians 4:29)
●     Slow to anger - Put off (Proverbs 14:29, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8, Psalm 103:8)

Verse 20

●     What then produces the righteousness of God?
●     Our attitude and reaction to scripture should never be anger
●     Reverence has no room for anger

Verse 21

●     Not just put off but put ______
●     Filthiness - Greek ‘rhuparia' means to make _____ or to ________
●     Instead be clean (Psalm 51:10), pure (1 John 3:3), and spotless (2 Peter 3:14)
●     Rampant wickedness - Greek for wickedness ‘kakia' also used for ________     (1 Corinthians 5:8)
●     Received with meekness the implanted word - Received is a passive verb
●     Meekness and humility (Colossians 3:12)
●     Which is able to save your souls - God's word has the power to __________ __________

Scripture Reading for July 19: Genesis 23

Unchanging God Of Salvation
(James 1:16-18)

Verse 16

● Deception is the defining characteristic of Satan

Verse 17

●     Good in Greek ‘agathos' - Gift ‘dosis', is the act of _________
●     Perfect in Greek ‘teleios' - Gift ‘dorema' is the _______ itself
●     Father Of Lights (3 camps of interpretation)
●     God is unchanging

Verse 18

● 4 important truths of salvation

1. It is God's ______ to save His ________from their ________ (Ephesians 2:8, Ephesians 1:11, Psalm 115:3)
2.    We are ________ in need of _________ (Isaiah 53:6, Romans 3:23)
3.    We are ______ through the ______ of God's _______, the ________ of Jesus Christ
(Romans 1:16, John 17:17, John 8:31-32, Hebrews 4:12, Matthew 4:4, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 1 Timothy 3:15
4.    God's _______ are set ______ for His ______ and His ________ (Deuteronomy 14:2, 1 Peter 2:9)

Scripture Reading for July 12: Philemon 1

The Life Cycle Of Sin
(James 1:13-15)

Verse 13

●     Heart produces desire, which manifests into temptation
●     Heart is the core (Matthew 6:21)
●     God does not tempt us (1 Corinthians 10:13)
●     He is not the source but the cure, not the cause but the escape
●     We have to own temptation and sin (Isaiah 59:2)
●     Blaming God is the ______________ of sin
●     Temptation and Christ are antithetical (Matthew 4:10)

Verse 14

● Individualizing temptation
● Lured, Satan is an avid fisher of souls (1 Peter 5:8, John 8:44)

1. ___________ Temptation (Matthew 26:41)
2. ___________ Temptation / Let us not be a stumbling block (Romans 14:13,

1 Corinthians 8:9,13)

Verse 15

●     The life cycle of sin
●     What defines us?
●     Unresolved sin leads to spiritual death (Romans 6:23, 1 John 3:8)

Scripture Reading for July 5: Genesis 22

Crowning Achievement Of God
(James 1:12)

Verse 12

●     Trials should not be viewed as punishment
●     Crowns are a further expression of the grace that God lavishes on His children
●     Crown - Greek word ‘stephanos' which means _______________________

Crowns

1. The ____________ Crown

● 1 Corinthians 9:24-25 , everlasting vs. temporal (worldly riches - Matthew 6:19-20)

2. The Crown of __________

● 1 Thessalonians 2:19
● We have a reason to rejoice (Revelation 21:4)

3. The Crown of ____________

●     2 Timothy 4:8 (delighting in His return)
●     __________ Righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21)
●     Glorification (Galatians 5:5)

4. The Crown of _____________

● 1 Peter 5:1-4 (more specific crown that comes with stricter repercussions - James 3:1)

5. The Crown of ________

● Revelation 2:10

Scripture Reading for June 28: Titus 3

Wellspring Of Wisdom
(James 1:5-11)

Verse 5

● Wisdom is something we all must seek

● How do we seek wisdom? (Philippians 4:6, 1 Kings 3:3-15)

● Wisdom is from the Lord (Proverbs 2:1-8)

Verse 6

● How we approach the Lord makes a difference

● The Lord has given us reason to trust Him and we should be confident in that (1 Corinthians 15:58, 1 Corinthians 16:3, 1 Timothy 3:15)

Verse 7

● Doubting does not equate to wisdom

Verse 8

● Double-minded Greek ‘dipsuchos' (dip-so-khos) means _______________

● Who is this verse talking about? Believer, unbeliever? (James 4:8)

Verse 9

● Lowly Greek ‘tapeinos' (tap-i-nos) meaning _____________

● What does he have to exalt about? Unbelievers do not understand this (1 Corinthians 1:18-19)

Verse 10

● Familiar theme of unfulfillment in the pursuit of riches (Ecclesiastes 5:10)

Verse 11

● The flesh is weak and the word of God is strong (Isaiah 40:6-8)

Scripture Reading for June 21 - Genesis 21

Faith Test

(James 1:1-4)

Background

● Who is the book of James written to?

● Chronologically the __________ book in the New Testament

Verse 1

● Servant (typical epistle verbiage, Gr. doulos - bondservant or slave)

● 12 Tribes (Jew) - Dispersion (scattered through persecution)

Verse 2

● Trials are good? (2 Timothy 3:12)

● Straight forward direct teaching of James

Verse 3

● Positives of tests/trials/persecution are echoed throughout New Testament

(1 Peter 4:12-14)

● Three common realizations we make through trials and tests

1. (Acts 2:42)
2. (Psalm 66:18)
3. (Proverbs 19:21)

Verse 4

● Striving for completeness in Christ, a sanctified walk.

Scripture for June 14: Titus 2

The Way Of The Master

(Matthew 25:14-30)

● Parable Greek ‘Paravoli' meaning _________ (Mark 4:10-12)

● What are some things that God has entrusted you with?

● Good stewardship is God honoring (1 Corinthians 4:2)

● Servants are to respect and work diligently for their master (1 Peter 2:18)

● We are servants of God (1 Peter 2:16)

● Our response in service will look like one of the three servants. Which one are you?

● Are there responsibilities and opportunities in your life that you have been squandering?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Scripture for June 7: Genesis 20

Bookends Of Grace

(1 Timothy 6:17-21)

Verse 17

● Potential tendencies associated with wealth - haughty, high-minded, arrogant

● Hope fixed on riches is of no value (Proverbs 11:28)

● Trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5)

Verse 18

● Doing good apart from Christ is impossible (John 15:5, Psalm 16:1-2, Jeremiah 17:9)

● Goodness happens through the Lord alone (Romans 8:28, Psalm 34:8, Matthew 19:17)

● The error in selfishness (Mark 10:17-25 the rich young ruler, 1 John 3:17)

Verse 19

● Good works + right heart motive = wise investment

Verse 20

● Avoid irreverent babble/vain discussions (1 Timothy 1:6)

● False knowledge leads to a real hell

Verse 21

● Pursuing false teachings will lead one further away from the truth

● God's grace is more than enough (2 Corinthians 9:8)

We regret that due to technical difficulties, the sermon for May 31st will not be digitally available.

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Scripture for May 24: Genesis 19

Character Worth Pursuing
(1 Timothy 6:11)

Verse 11

● ‘O man of God' - unique title Paul gives Timothy

● Flee these things? What things? (1 Timothy 6:3-5, 1 Timothy 6:9-10)

● List of things to pursue

Righteousness
●     Greek word ‘Dikaiosune' which means ________ of God or the condition that is ____________ to God
●     Righteousness of God (Psalm 11:7)
●     We are made righteous through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21, Philippians 3:9)
●     So how do we pursue righteousness like we see in Proverbs 15:9?
Godliness
●     Honoring God through growing in the image and likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29)
Faith
●     Where does faith come from? (Hebrews 12:2)
●     Faith is made visible through actions
Love
●     Love drives godly action (1 Timothy 1:5)
●     God loves us, we are to love God as well as others (Romans 5:8,1 John 4:7-8, Matthew 5:44)
●     Importance of love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
Steadfastness
●     Greek word ‘hypomone' which means _________, ___________, ___________
(2 Thessalonians 3:5)
●     Example in Job (James 5:11)
Gentleness
●     Man up and be known for gentleness (2 Peter 1:5-7, Colossians 3:12-15)

Scripture for May 17: 2 Timothy 4

Satisfying The Moths
(1 Timothy 6:6-10)

Verse 6 -

● Godliness and contentment complement each other

● What makes us content?

● In Christ we are to be content in every circumstance (Philippians 4:11-13)

Verse 7 -

● The temporal nature of things

Verse 8 -

● Contentment in the Lord is harder to find when we can't see past the stuff

Verse 9 -

● Wrongful pursuit

● Unhealthy desire of wealth (Ecclesiastes 5:10, Matthew 6:24, Hebrews 13:5)

● What do we do with the propensity or temptation toward this unhealthy desire? _____ (1 Corinthians 6:!8, Matthew 26:41, 2 Timothy 2:22)

● How are we tempted? (James 1:14)

● How do we overcome? (James 4:7, Psalm 119:33, Galatians 5:16)

Verse 10 -

● You can't buy peace, joy, or hope

● The love of money is the core of many problems

● Choosing a golden idol over God? (sound familiar)

● A regenerate heart is a one of eternal riches (Matthew 6:19-21)

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Scripture Reading for May 10 is Genesis 18. There is no outline this week.

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Scripture reading for May 3: 2 Timothy 3

Character That Points To The King
(1 Timothy 5:21-6:2)

Verse 21 -

● Elect - Gr. ‘elektos' meaning _______ ones

● Israel (Deuteronomy 7:6)

● Saints (1 Peter 1:9, John 15:16, Ephesians 1:1-5)

● Fallen angels (2 Peter 2:4)

Verse 22 -

● The sin of not doing due diligence

Verse 23 -

● Fermentation for digestion

Verse 24 -

● Glorifying God in the process

Verse 25 -

● The nature of sins manifestation

Verse 1 -

● Bondservant - Gr. ‘doulos' which means ________

● Honoring God through this service (Ephesians 6:5, Colossians 3:22, Titus 2:9-10)

● Our conduct should show Christ to others (Philippians 2:12-16)

Verse 2 -

● Don't take advantage of your brother

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Scripture Reading for April 26: Genesis 17

An Honor To Serve
(1 Timothy 5:17-20)

Verse 17 -

● Well - Greek ‘kalos' which means _________________

● An elder/overseer that serves with excellence

● Honor - Greek ‘time' means to highly value

● The other meaning to ‘time' has a financial component (Acts 4:34, 1 Corinthians 6:20)

● Especially those who labor at teaching and preaching (Timothy)

● Compensation for those who have a life of full time ministry

● Preaching and teaching even when it isn't popular or well perceived (2 Timothy 4:2)

● The high cost of teaching and preaching (James 3:1)

Verse 18 -

● OT reference (Deuteronomy 25:4)

● NT reference (1 Corinthians 9:9)

● Ties in with Luke 10:7

Verse 19 -

● Same protocol as Matthew 18 (Restoration-gaining back your brother)

Verse 20 -

● The seriousness of sin needs maintained at all times