• Worship includes receiving God’s Word.

• Series focus: finding/knowing God’s will.

• Message title: “Your heart matters.”

• Physical heart illustration → emphasizes importance and function.

• Spiritual heart = intellect, will, emotions (the “real you”).

• The heart determines character and decisions.

• Types of unhealthy hearts: hardened, bitter, impure.

• Healthy heart = pure, good, pleasing to God.

• Spiritual heart health is as critical as physical heart health.

• Humans make ~35,000 decisions daily.

• Decisions shape destiny.

• Process: thought → action → habit → character → destiny.

• Heart and thoughts are deeply connected (Proverbs principle).

• Planning is good, but must include God (James 4).

• Key idea: “If the Lord wills.”

• Approach:

  • Make plans.

  • Submit them to God.

  • Allow God to adjust them.

• God’s will is always better than human plans.

• Primary way: through Scripture (revealed will).

• Other ways (secondary):

  • Circumstances

  • Dreams

  • Open/closed doors

  • Other believers/spiritual authority

  • Prophetic words

• Warning: Don’t seek external guidance without knowing God’s Word.

• Revealed will (explicit in Scripture):

  • Salvation (2 Peter 3:9)

  • Sanctification/holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3)

  • Doing good (1 Peter 2:15)

• Unrevealed will (personal decisions):

  • Which church to attend

  • Who to marry

  • What ministry to pursue

• Principle: Obey revealed will to better discern unrevealed will.

• Not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will enter heaven.

• True disciples: those who do God’s will.

• Danger of:

  • Superficial faith

  • Empty words

  • Right actions with wrong motives

• Emphasis: obedience + right heart.

• Seed = Word of God.

• Four types of soil (hearts):

  1. Hard path → Word stolen (no understanding).

  2. Rocky soil → No root; falls away in trials.

  3. Thorny soil → Choked by cares, riches, pleasures.

  4. Good soil → Produces fruit abundantly.

• Key lesson: the issue is not the seed, but the soil (heart).

• Heart determines response to God’s Word.

• Good heart = noble, receptive, persevering.

• Scripture emphasis:

  • Guard your heart (Proverbs 4:23).

  • Heart produces actions and speech (Jesus’ teaching).

  • Human heart is naturally sinful (Jeremiah).

• Requires intentional effort (like tending a garden).

• Weeds (sin, bitterness, etc.) grow naturally.

• Needed responses:

  • Repentance

  • Prayer (“Create in me a clean heart”)

  • Ongoing self-examination

• Possible issues: unforgiveness, bitterness, sin.

• God’s Word is incorruptible and powerful.

• Like a seed that can remain dormant but still produce life.

• Effectiveness depends on the condition of the heart.

• Rediscovered God’s Word.

• Responded with repentance and humility.

• God honored his tender heart.

• Model of proper response to God’s Word.

• “Your heart matters.”

• Choose to cultivate a tender, responsive heart.

• Respond to God with repentance and obedience.

• Prayer for transformation and receptivity to God’s Word.

• Reference to Charles Spurgeon: God’s Word defends itself.

• Connection to previous message on the cross (Galatians 6:14).

• Illustration: church member misusing the “thief on the cross” story.

• Introduction of three crosses:

  • Cross of redemption (Jesus).

  • Cross of rejection.

  • “Another cross” (the repentant thief).

• One criminal mocks Jesus.

• The other:

  • Rebukes the first criminal.

  • Acknowledges guilt.

  • Declares Jesus’ innocence.

  • Asks Jesus to remember him.

• Jesus promises him paradise.

• Demonstrates deep spiritual understanding at the end of life.

• Possible unknown background (religious or sudden revelation).

• Encouragement to grow spiritually and keep learning.

• Initially mocked Jesus but experienced a change of heart.

• Key idea: “While there is life, there is hope.”

• Warning against false or limiting belief systems.

• Emphasis on truth as the source of freedom.

• Call to “come to your senses” spiritually.

• Sin described as destructive and deceptive.

• Illustration: prodigal son and consequences of sin.

• Based on Luke 23:40: “Do you not fear God?”

• The thief understood reverence and accountability before God.

• Not terror בלבד, but reverence, respect, and awe.

• Balance:

  • गलत view: harsh, cruel God.

  • Opposite गलत view: only love, no judgment.

• Matthew 10:28 – Fear God, not man.

• Hebrews 10:31 – Fearful to fall into God’s hands.

• Hebrews 12:28–29 – God is a consuming fire.

• Proverbs 16:6 – Fear of God leads to turning from evil.

• Modern culture minimizes or distorts God’s holiness.

• Danger of creating a “God in our image.”

• Example: evangelist who loved Christ but lost fear of God → moral failure.

• Key point: spiritual passion without reverence leads to compromise.

• Fear of God establishes moral boundaries.

• Christians should not live habitually in sin while claiming faith.

• Call to raise standards according to Scripture, not culture.

• Based on Luke 23:41: “We are punished justly…”

• The thief admits guilt and responsibility.

• Acknowledging sin is the first step to salvation and healing.

• Humans resist admitting wrongdoing.

• Modern tendency to blame others (culture, family, society).

• Biblical truth: all are guilty before God.

• Romans 3:10 – None righteous.

• Romans 3:19 – All the world guilty before God.

• Romans 3:23 – All have sinned.

• Prison story: only the guilty man was freed.

• Parable of Pharisee vs. tax collector:

  • Self-righteous man vs. repentant sinner.

  • The humble sinner is justified.

• You cannot receive salvation without admitting need.

• “I’m a good person” mindset blocks repentance.

• Sin leads to destruction (James 1:14–15).

• The cross is the solution to human guilt.

• Two key lessons from the thief:

  • Fear God (reverence and accountability).

  • Admit personal sin (humility and repentance).

• Message of hope:

  • Jesus saves sinners.

  • Transformation is possible even at the last moment.

• Invitation to respond:

  • Repent.

  • Return to God.

  • Embrace grace and salvation.

• Brief overview of Paul as an apostle and missionary: sent by Christ, three missionary journeys, final journey to Rome, thousands of miles traveled.

• Paul’s work: establishing churches, appointing leaders, testifying before rulers, writing about half the New Testament (13 letters).

• Emphasis that Paul had an extraordinary “resume” of accomplishments.

• Key verse: “God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

• Point: Despite having much he could boast in, Paul chose to glory only in the cross.

• Contrast with culture (ancient and modern) where people seek worth in achievements, wealth, status, and credentials.

• Clarification that net worth does not equal self-worth; many wealthy, accomplished people still lack true value and identity.

• Jeremiah’s warning:

  • Let not the wise glory in wisdom.

  • Let not the mighty glory in might.

  • Let not the rich glory in riches.

• True glory: understanding and knowing the Lord who practices lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness.

• Humanity’s tendency to boast in intellect, strength, and possessions contrasted with God’s values.

• Paul lists his qualifications:

  • Circumcised the eighth day, of Israel, tribe of Benjamin, Hebrew of Hebrews.

  • A Pharisee regarding the law, zealous (persecuting the church), outwardly blameless in legal righteousness.

• Paul’s conclusion: what was gain he now counts as loss for Christ; all is “rubbish” compared to knowing Christ.

• Illustration of “trophies” being swept into the garbage compared to the surpassing worth of Christ.

• Story of James Dobson winning a state tennis championship, proudly displaying his trophy in school.

• Years later the trophy is found in the trash; a janitor calls to ask if he wants it.

• Lesson: what once seemed highly valuable becomes garbage; earthly honors are fleeting.

• Application: anything not attached to Jesus Christ fades and loses significance.

• Personal example: pastor’s brief media prominence during Israel war coverage—interviews, trending stories.

• After a few days, the coverage disappears and must be searched for.

• Broader examples:

  • Money sprouts wings and flies away.

  • Beauty, strength, popularity, trends, and influencer status all fade.

  • Even Christian trends, names, and songs move from top to bottom of the list.

• Warning: if identity is tied to these things, life will be unstable—“up and then down.”

• Reaffirmation of Paul’s statement: God forbid that I should boast in anything but the cross.

• Scholar’s quote: the cross as the hinge of history, the hub of God’s purposes; OT prophets pointed to it, NT disciples proclaimed it.

• Hymn “The Old Rugged Cross” cited to underline the cross as emblem of suffering, shame, salvation, and ultimate exchange for a crown.

• Concern that contemporary church culture often downplays the cross, the blood, and Christ’s supremacy, exalting human philosophy and benefits instead.

• Clarification of “mystery” in the biblical sense: a truth once hidden but now revealed.

• The cross’ relevance to today:

  • Every good thing and spiritual blessing comes through the cross.

  • Apart from Christ’s death there is only judgment and condemnation.

• Repeated call-and-response: “Because of the cross” applied to:

  • Every sin forgiven.

  • Every healing.

  • Every ministry, song, offering, and destiny fulfilled.

• Reading 1 Corinthians 1:18–25:

  • The message of the cross is foolishness to those perishing but God’s power to those being saved.

  • God destroys worldly wisdom; through “foolish” preaching He saves believers.

  • Jews seek signs, Greeks seek wisdom, but the church preaches Christ crucified—stumbling block to Jews, foolishness to Greeks, but the power and wisdom of God to the called.

• Warning against famine of hearing God’s Word in the last days; insistence that the church must keep proclaiming Scripture, not just short, story-only messages.

• Paul’s approach in Corinth: not with excellence of speech or human wisdom.

• Determination “to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”

• Emphasis on weakness, fear, trembling; preaching in demonstration of the Spirit and power, so faith rests on God’s power, not human wisdom.

• Critique of modern church gimmicks, sensationalism, and entertainment used to attract people.

• Principle: what you win people with, you must keep supplying to keep them; only the cross and Christ are stable foundations.

• Teaching: the value of something depends on who owns it and what someone will pay for it.

• Illustration:

  • Ordinary sneakers vs. Michael Jordan’s sneakers valued much higher because of the owner.

  • Believers’ value because they are owned by Christ, bought with a price.

• Baseball card story: selling sports cards to buy his wife’s engagement ring, showing how value is determined by what someone is willing to pay.

• Scriptural basis: believers redeemed not with silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ; life is in the blood; without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.

• Conclusion: our worth, significance, and purpose come from the cross and the blood of Jesus, not from worldly systems.

• Warning against grounding identity in titles (even “pastor”), roles, or what people say.

• People are fickle: they can shout “Hosanna” one day and “Crucify him” the next.

• Admission that the pastor still struggles with this but must continually return to the cross and the Father’s love.

• Call for the congregation to avoid judging quickly, recognizing everyone has issues.

• Exhortation: find identity in Christ and His work on the cross when all external things are stripped away.

• Contrast of Christianity with other religions (Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormonism, Buddhism, Islam):

  • Other systems focus on what adherents must do and become.

  • The gospel centers on what Christ has done.

• Example from Acts 16: jailer asks, “What must I do to be saved?” Answer: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,” not a list of works.

• The cross as the only ground of boasting because we contributed nothing to it; all glory goes to God.

• Statement that the cross’ power to deliver, heal, and set free never diminishes.

• Reference to Philippians 3: Paul has not arrived but presses on by grace.

• Encouragement: no believer has “arrived”; we all press on because of the cross’ power.

• Allusion to hymn: the blood reaches the highest mountain, flows to the lowest valley, and gives strength day by day.

• Appeal to those who have never fully accepted Jesus or the work of the cross.

• Explanation: salvation is by faith—repenting, believing in what Jesus did on our behalf.

• Assertion: there is real power in the cross and the blood to change lives.

• Quotation: “He who has the Son has life; he who does not…the wrath of God abides on him.”

• The cross shows both God’s wrath against sin (someone had to die) and His love for us (Christ taking our place).

• Call for a response: raising hands to indicate need for grace, then coming forward publicly to seal the decision.

• Assurance: they are only being asked to believe and receive, not perform.

• Closing with worship focused on the cross and thanksgiving for Christ’s sacrifice, plus practical church information (Victory Church address).

• Brother Lawrence’s joy in returning “home” to Victory Church.

• Repeated trips to Liberia (and Israel) despite earlier reluctance to travel to West Africa.

• Observation: high percentage of professing Christians in Liberia; strong biblical knowledge, even among children.

• Humbling experiences with Liberian believers’ excellence in dress and worship; story of being underdressed and then over-preparing, only to need borrowed attire.

• Framing the message as a serious word from the Holy Spirit and a “gift from Liberia.”

• Link to upcoming events: Easter, baby dedications, baptisms.

• Call to open hearts and ears.

• Scripture text announced: Luke 16:19–31 (rich man and Lazarus).

• Jesus speaking in the presence of disciples, tax collectors, sinners, and Pharisees.

• Pharisees questioning Jesus for associating with sinners and tax collectors.

• Reading the parable:

  • Rich man clothed in purple and fine linen, living in luxury.

  • Beggar Lazarus at his gate, full of sores, longing for crumbs; dogs licking his sores.

  • Death of both men: Lazarus carried to Abraham’s side, rich man in torment in Hades.

  • Rich man’s plea for relief and Abraham’s answer about the great fixed gulf.

  • Rich man’s request to warn his brothers; Abraham’s reply about Moses and the prophets and the refusal to believe even if one rises from the dead.

• Warning against quickly judging the rich man and assuming wealth itself is evil.

• Affirmation: God gives power to get wealth and desires to bless His children.

• Real problem: pride and selfishness—wealth becoming an idol that controls the heart.

• Evidence of selfishness: refusal to help Lazarus despite great abundance and space.

• Reference to Matthew 13:44–46:

  • Treasure hidden in a field, man sells all to buy it.

  • Merchant finding one pearl of great price, selling all to get it.

• Teaching: the kingdom of heaven is the true treasure and lasting wealth.

• Contrast between God’s definition of wealth and the world’s (cars, status, luxury).

• Scripture as our manual for teaching, correction, and equipping; having answers but still making wrong choices.

• Call for each believer to identify as the rich man spiritually.

• Believers are “filthy rich” in spiritual terms—rich in the gospel and knowledge of Christ.

• Question: Are there spiritually hungry “Lazaruses” we pass every day?

• Description of spiritually starving people:

  • Coming for prayer, asking questions, clearly in need.

  • Trying to fill their inner void with sin, addictions, relationships, and pleasures.

• Challenge: how many such Lazaruses are ignored or postponed (“I’ll talk to them tomorrow”)?

• Daniel as a faithful Christian, hard worker, devoted family man, regular church attender.

• Coworker Mike searching spiritually, marriage failing, feeling empty.

• Daniel intending to share the gospel “when things slow down,” continually postponing.

• Mike moves away amid crisis; Daniel never shares Christ with him.

• Daniel’s conviction and resolve afterward: no longer treating evangelism as optional or “when I have time.”

• Matthew 6:33: seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

• Mark 8:36: what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his soul?

• Matthew 28:19–20: the Great Commission—go, make disciples, baptize, teach.

• Acknowledgment of ongoing worries (finances, health, stress), but insistence that they must not block obedience.

• Question: how many Lazaruses suffer or die spiritually because of our worries and delays?

• Context before the parable: Luke 15 (the “lost” chapter).

• Parable of the lost sheep (leaving the 99 for the one; joy in heaven over one sinner who repents).

• Parable of the lost coin (diligent search, rejoicing with neighbors when found).

• Emphasis: explicit description of joy in heaven and among the angels over one repentant sinner.

• Point: this is what makes heaven rejoice; this is God’s heart.

• Believers as spiritually rich and left on earth for a mission, not taken immediately to heaven.

• We are ambassadors for Christ, with God pleading through us for people to be reconciled.

• We are co-laborers with Christ—He works through us, but we must say “yes” and step out.

• Reframing the rich man: rather than condemning him, examine our own response to the spiritually needy.

• Acknowledgment of different learning styles; some need a visual example.

• Calling members from the congregation to the front to represent the disciples.

• One person symbolically identified as Judas and sent back; replacement mentioned from Acts 1.

• Jesus’ command reenacted: “Go and make disciples of all nations…”

• Instruction to each “disciple” to go into the congregation, grab two people, and bring them up.

• New group then commissioned the same way and told to each get two more.

• Repetition of the exercise, stressing getting out of comfort zones and “whether they want to or not” as a dramatic illustration.

• Congregation asked to look around at the now-filled front area as a picture of how heaven should be.

• Statement: this multiplication is God’s plan for mankind; we are rich and must not leave Lazaruses behind.

• Evangelism and disciple-making presented as:

  • Respect and obedience to Christ.

  • The first priority of anyone who calls themselves Christian.

• Reminder: Satan’s main strategy is to distract believers from this mission with stress, finances, and life problems from the moment they wake up.

• Repeated warning that “God is not playing around with us” on this issue.

• Call to leave comfort zones and embrace our identity as spiritually rich ambassadors.

• Exhortation: no more ignoring Lazarus at the gate—bring them, fill heaven, and “empty the gates of hell.”

• Definition of God’s faithfulness: dependable, reliable, trustworthy; our faith rests on his track record, not ours.

• Importance of Scripture: knowing, memorizing, meditating on, and living in the Word as the basis of faith.

• God’s faithfulness despite life’s ups and downs, confusion, and challenges.

• Hanani the seer (prophet) confronts King Asa for relying on the king of Syria instead of the Lord.​

• Reminder of past deliverance: when Asa relied on the Lord, God gave victory over a much larger army.

• Key verse: the eyes of the Lord run to and fro to show Himself strong for those whose hearts are loyal to Him.

• Asa’s wrong response: anger at the prophet, imprisonment of Hanani, and oppression of some people.

• Definition of a seer as an Old Testament prophet who sees through the lens of God’s Word.

• Need for seers, prophets, preachers, and sound teaching to give clarity and direction from Scripture.

• Necessity of community: pastors, counselors, accountability partners, and “one another” commands (love, encourage, pray, rebuke, support.)

• Warning against isolation and cultural voices that say you do not need church, pastors, or gathered worship.

• Biblical examples of gathered worship and prayer (Jesus’ custom of attending synagogue; Peter and John going to the temple together).

• Spiritual battle between relying on God’s Word and relying on natural thinking.

• Reading and prayer as communion with God and renewal of the mind, not mere religious duty.

• Reality of distraction and deception; the devil appearing as an “angel of light,” not obvious evil.

• Need for robust, not minimal, preaching of the Word; critique of shallow “12‑minute sermons.”

• Images for Scripture: God’s Word as a hammer that breaks rocks (hard hearts, lies, fears, generational mindsets.)

• The Word as alignment (like a four‑wheel alignment) that keeps believers on the right path amid life’s “potholes.”

• Explanation of “eyes of the Lord run to and fro” as poetic language for God’s active searching and care.

• God desires to show Himself strong, reveal His power, and work miracles for those whose hearts are loyal to Him.

• Clarifying loyalty: not sinless perfection, but maturity, quick repentance, brokenness, and sensitivity to God.

• Warning from Asa’s example: rejecting correction, resisting the Word, and responding in pride.

• Charge from Paul to Timothy: preach the Word in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with patience and sound doctrine.

• Prediction that many will not endure sound doctrine, seeking teachers to satisfy their own desires.

• Believers’ responsibility to preach, speak, and declare the Word in a culture resistant to truth.

• Description of the world as “sin‑sick” and opposed to God and Christ.

• Constant need for Scriptural “front‑end alignment” because of moral and spiritual potholes.

• Contrast between delighting in God’s law (Psalm 1) and delighting in social media and ungodly counsel.

• God’s promise that believers can bear fruit even in old age.

• Older believers called to mentor the younger: sharing wisdom, miracles, and life lessons.

• Practical examples: older women discipling younger women; older men mentoring younger men in character and work ethic.

• God remains faithful even when we are faithless; faithfulness is His character and nature.

• Illustration: a reliable car versus an unreliable one; God is always “starting,” never failing.

• Biblical assurance: His mercies are new every morning; great is His faithfulness.

• What God has done before—deliverance, provision, guidance—He can and will do again.

• Call to have a loyal, trusting heart toward God’s promises, not a perfect record.

• Exhortation to stay humble, teachable, and open to counsel rather than reacting like Asa.

• Desire to learn the “easy way” by receiving wisdom, not only through painful experience.​

• Closing emphasis: stand in God’s faithfulness, receive His Word without resistance, repent where needed, and be encouraged that He will continue to be faithful.

• Request for Psalm 27 to be put on the screen; announcement that this will be the main text.

• Expression of gratitude to volunteers who cleared snow in the parking lot and reminder about tight parking conditions.

• Mood set: “We’re here to worship the Lord” despite inconveniences with snow and parking.

• Personal memory of an elderly woman at the former Admiral Street location who would quote Psalm 27:1 with conviction.

• Pivot from original planned message to God’s redirection toward Psalm 27 and the theme of light.

• Working sermon title given: “The Light of the World,” referring to Jesus.

• Explanation that light in the Bible symbolizes God, His holiness, and the only true light for the world.

• Connection of light and salvation as inseparable in Psalm 27:1.

• Reference to Jesus’ “I Am” statements in John, especially “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12), and other Johannine references to Jesus as light.

• Reference to Matthew 4:16: those who sat in darkness have seen a great light.

• Reading Psalm 27:1–3 and identifying it as a psalm of David.

• Explanation: David expresses jubilant confidence and courageous trust in the Lord despite many enemies and constant threats.

• Clarification that courage is not human toughness but trust in God’s strength in our weakness.

• Application: believers also face struggles, conflicts, curveballs, and unexpected changes in life.

• Definitions:

  • Light dispels darkness, brings understanding, joy, and life.

  • Salvation moves us from a bad place to a good place, is a stronghold—a fortified place where harm cannot ultimately penetrate.

• Rhetorical question: If God provides light and salvation as a stronghold, whom shall we fear?

• Encouragement not to be moved by what we see, hear, or feel, but to rest in the Lord as our light and salvation.

• Jesus is the light of the world, but believers are also called the light of the world.

• Exhortation not to hide our light “under a bushel,” alluding to the children’s song “This Little Light of Mine.”

• Emphasis that this is not only about outward evangelism but about the inner personal light Christ places within each believer.

• Warning against living in a semi-dead or dim spiritual state; God wants His light to permeate and shine through our lives.

• Return to the story of the elderly woman who quoted Psalm 27:1 every week with conviction.

• She did not allow age, aches, or pains to diminish her confidence that the Lord was her light and salvation.

• Personal connection: the preacher knew her family’s challenges, including a wayward grandson he once chased as a police officer.

• Point: her declaration flowed from real experience of God’s faithfulness, and she repeated it to impress the same mindset on others.

• Application: adopt that same resolute mindset when life throws curveballs and when darkness tries to extinguish our light.

• Illustration: physical darkness in a room and how even a small light (like an alarm clock display) helps navigate.

• Spiritual point: darkness cannot snuff out light; light forces darkness to flee when switched on.

• Observation that sinful and harmful acts often take place under cover of darkness, but God’s light exposes and displaces them.

• Encouragement that if a believer’s light feels dim, turning to Scripture (God’s Word as lamp and light) brightens the path.

• Reading Psalm 27:8–10: call to seek God’s face and plea that God not hide His face or forsake His servant.

• Explanation: David felt circumstances getting the best of him—delays, disappointment, and possible abandonment even by parents.

• Emphasis that God never leaves or forsakes His people even when others do or when we are imperfect.

• Illustration: the “hound of heaven” image for the Holy Spirit persistently pursuing believers.

• Personal story: driving past the soccer coach’s broken-down car and joking that he did not make the team—contrast with God never passing us by on the roadside.

• Teaching that God is already present in our troubles before we arrive there; He walks on the storms and invites us, like Peter, to trust Him.

• David’s turning point: he inquired of the Lord and let God’s presence enter his doubts and struggles.

• Call to put God’s will first rather than our own, as Jesus prayed “not my will but yours.”

• Encouragement to seek God’s fullness—fullness of faith, joy, and strength—rather than settling for half measures.

• Analogy: we often try to clean ourselves up before coming to God, but that is why we got into a mess; God wants us to come as we are.

• Affirmation that God’s promise to never leave or forsake His people runs from Deuteronomy through the New Testament.

• Reference to Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28: He will be with His disciples to the very end.

• Explanation of “forever and ever”: God doubles the language to emphasize that His faithfulness truly does not end.

• Reminder that creation itself groans and anticipates His coming, and that we are made in God’s image and likeness.

• Reading Psalm 27:13–14: “I would have lost heart unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”

• Description of the human heart as fickle and deceitful, prone to discouragement and self-pity (“I’m the only one”).

• Encouragement to “let God arise” so that fears and doubts are scattered, echoing older worship songs.

• Clarification that God’s goodness is not just future but is seen “in the land of the living,” in our present lives and situations.

• Exhortation to wait on the Lord—not passively, but in faith, expectation, and confidence that God will strengthen our hearts and align our desires and will with His.

• Brief look ahead to Psalm 28 as a psalm of rejoicing for answered prayer.

• Reading Psalm 28:6–7 to show David’s transition from trouble to praise: the Lord heard his supplications, became his strength and shield, and filled his heart with rejoicing and song.

• Application: as we trust God as light and salvation, He turns prayers into testimonies and darkness into worship.

• Instruction for the congregation to come out of their seats, fill the aisles, and gather together for communion as an act of koinonia (fellowship).

• Emphasis that believers are building relationships with those they will be with in eternity; encouragement to love one another now.

• Communion teaching:

  • The bread represents Christ’s body broken so ours need not be ultimately broken by sin’s effects; He provides wholeness of mind, body, and spirit.

  • The cup represents Christ’s blood shed for forgiveness of sins so we can spend eternity with Him rather than separated.

  • Note that no one is “worthy” in themselves; Jesus did this for us while we were ungodly.

• Congregational declaration:

  • “The Lord is my light and my salvation; of whom shall I be afraid?

  • The Lord is the strength of my life; whom shall I fear?”

• Pastoral prayer: asking God to bless and keep the people, cause His face to shine on them, give peace, strength, and joy of salvation.

• Reminder that the Lord is their light, strength, and provider today, tomorrow, and for eternity.

• Practical closing: caution to be careful in the parking lot and invitation to midweek service.

• Closing thanks to listeners of the sermon and mention of Victory’s location at 321 Veazie Street.

• Overview of the Victory Church podcast: teaching and worship messages.

• Church mission: reaching the lost, restoring the broken, reviving believers.

• Central theme: the faithfulness of God — His dependability, reliability, and trustworthiness.

II. Understanding God’s Faithfulness

• Our faith rests not on our faithfulness, but on God's proven record.

• Encouragement to know, memorize, meditate on, and live by the Word of God.

• God’s faithfulness remains constant despite life’s ups and downs.

III. Lesson from 2 Chronicles 16:7–10 — King Asa and the Prophet Hanani

• The prophet (“seer”) rebuked Asa for relying on human power instead of God.

• The “eyes of the Lord” search the earth for loyal hearts to strengthen.

• Asa’s foolish anger at correction serves as a warning against pride and spiritual resistance.

IV. The Role of Prophets, Pastors, and Counselors

• God speaks through His servants to bring clarity and correction.

• The danger of isolation: believers need pastors, accountability, and spiritual community.

• The “one another” principles of the New Testament — loving, praying for, and encouraging one another.

V. The Importance of Church and Unity

• Jesus Himself regularly attended worship.

• Countering cultural messages that say believers don’t need church or pastors.

• The power of unity — believers praying, worshiping, and standing together.

VI. Relying on God, Not Natural Thinking

• Asa’s mistake: trusting human wisdom instead of divine guidance.

• Distractions and deception are the enemy’s primary tools.

• The Word of God renews the mind and guards against subtle lies.

VII. The Power and Necessity of the Word

• The Word is a hammer that breaks strongholds and transforms hearts.

• Sermons and Scripture are tools for shaping believers — not short motivational talks.

• The preaching of the Word remains essential even when unpopular.

VIII. Staying Teachable and Humbly Receiving Correction

• King Asa’s downfall was pride and resistance to counsel.

• Believers should remain humble, lifelong learners open to godly wisdom.

• Experience becomes true learning only when processed through the Word and wisdom.

IX. God’s Faithfulness and Our Loyal Hearts

• God seeks loyal, not perfect, hearts.

• Loyalty involves repentance, humility, and trust.

• God desires to show Himself strong for His people just as He has in the past.

X. Bearing Fruit at Every Stage of Life

• Believers can bear fruit even in old age.

• Mentorship: older generations have wisdom to pass on to younger ones.

• Fruitfulness includes spiritual influence and discipleship, not just activity.

XI. Conclusion: A Call to Worship and Renewal

• God’s character is unchanging—He remains faithful even when we are faithless.

• Invitation to pray, worship, and recommit to trusting God.

• Affirmation that God continues to work, bless, and restore His people through His faithfulness.

• Welcome to the Victory Church podcast and Sunday worship gathering.

• Victory’s mission: reaching the lost, restoring the broken, reviving believers.​

• Joy and gratitude for being in God’s house where worship, prayer, the Word, and fellowship occur.​

• Emphasis that God’s grace enabled people to be present, overcoming hindrances.​

II. The Nature and Purpose of Prayer

• Prayer and the Word as central priorities at Victory Church.​

• Biblical commands to pray: “men ought always to pray,” “pray without ceasing,” “watch and pray,” “continue earnestly in prayer.”​

• Clarification: prayer is not a religious ritual but a relational conversation with a loving Father.​

• Prayer as sharing cares, dreams, concerns with God; Scripture as God sharing His thoughts and heart with us.​

III. Reactive vs. Proactive Prayer A. Reactive Prayer

• Definition: responding to events, crises, and immediate needs after they happen.​

• Typical reactive requests: jobs, finances, housing, healing, family and school pressures.​

• Affirmation: these needs matter to God; believers should cast all cares on Him.​

• Problem: if this is the only kind of praying, discipleship and prayer life are out of alignment with God’s best.​

B. Proactive Prayer

• Definition: creating or shaping situations by praying God’s will in advance, not only reacting.​

• Example from the Lord’s Prayer: “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” as a proactive request.​

• Goal: move believers beyond crisis-only praying into kingdom-focused, forward-looking prayer.​

IV. Acts 4 as a Model of Prayer A. Context of Acts 4

• Acts as early church history, showing the Spirit-empowered beginnings of the church.​

• Peter and John preaching, healing a crippled man, and provoking opposition from religious leaders.​

• Authorities command them not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus.​

• Connection to today: pressure in culture to silence biblical truth and the name of Jesus.​

B. The Disciples’ Response

• They return “to their own” (the church, fellow believers) when threatened.​

• Principle: where you turn in crisis reveals much about your heart.​

• They share the report as a prayer request and turn immediately to corporate prayer.​

• They pray in alignment with Scripture (Psalm 2) and God’s will, not just emotions.​

C. Content of Their Prayer (Acts 4:24–31)

• Acknowledge God as Creator and Sovereign Lord over heaven and earth.​

• Rehearse Scripture about nations raging and rulers opposing the Lord and His Christ.​

• Interpret persecution as part of God’s sovereign purpose in Christ’s suffering.​

• Reactive element: “Lord, look on their threats.”​

• Proactive element: ask for boldness to speak the Word, and for God’s hand to heal with signs and wonders in Jesus’ name.​

• Result: the place is shaken, all are filled with the Holy Spirit, and they speak God’s Word with boldness.​

V. Praying with the Word and God’s Will

• Call to pray not only from need or emotion but aligned with Scripture.​

• Examples of praying Scripture over needs (provision, healing, emotional and spiritual needs, relationships).​

• Recognition that God’s will includes timing; believers must be sensitive and obedient.​

• Emphasis: there is power when prayer and the Word are joined.​

VI. From Problem to Launching Pad

• Observation: in Acts 4, the crisis launches the church into deeper proactive prayer, not retreat.​

• Instead of praying primarily for safety and comfort, they pray for greater boldness and impact.​

• Application: believers today should ask God to use trials to produce testimony, messages, and greater influence for His glory.​

VII. Call to a Proactive Kingdom Focus A. For Truth and Witness in a Confused Culture

• Culture tolerates generic “god talk” but reacts strongly to the exclusive claims of Jesus.​

• Expect opposition when living and speaking biblical truth, without being obnoxious or hypocritical.​

• The church must stand firm on Scripture, not be shaped by social media or worldly opinions.​

B. For Local and Global Mission

• Victory Church’s call: reach Providence and the nations through evangelism and missions.​

• Example: missions trips (Kenya, Sierra Leone, Liberia) and conferences to strengthen pastors and churches.​

• Appeal for proactive prayer for missions: bold preaching, anointing, signs and wonders, and lasting fruit.​

C. For Revival and Awakening

• Distinction: revival for the church (bringing believers back to life), awakening for the lost.​

• Invitation to pray for souls, discipleship, anointing, revival in churches, and awakening in the nation.​

• Desire to create cultures of discipleship, evangelism, missions, and deep engagement with Scripture.​

VIII. Illustrations of Proactive Prayer in History and Life

• Personal testimony: long season in temporary housing, choosing contentment and kingdom focus while trusting God’s timing.​

• Application of Matthew 6:33: prioritizing God’s kingdom and righteousness, trusting Him to add needed things.​

• Biblical example: Job praying for his friends and receiving double restoration.​

• Historical examples:

  • John Knox’s burden “give me Scotland or I die” and its influence.​

  • David Brainerd’s fervent prayer for Native Americans and resulting impact.​

  • William Tyndale’s martyrdom for translating Scripture and the later spread of English Bibles.​

  • The Moravians’ 100-year prayer meeting and remarkable missionary sending.​

IX. Practical Application and Invitation

• Challenge: move beyond “needs-only” praying to kingdom-centered, proactive prayer.​

• Specific areas to pray proactively: personal walk, church, ministries, missions, national awakening, and social issues.​

• Encouragement to stay for times of corporate prayer, lifting up pastors, leaders, and global work.​

• Final appeal: cultivate a passion that cries, “Lord, give us souls, give us revival, use my life and this church for Your glory.”

1. Word of God as powerful and authoritative, likened to a hammer that breaks rock (Jeremiah, Jesus’ words never passing away).​

2. Welcome to Pastor Dave Fisher; context of recent ministry, prayer week, and sensing an increased move of the Spirit in the church and region.​

3. Worship as an act of defiance against the devil: choosing to shout unto God with a voice of triumph regardless of circumstances.​

4. Isaiah 43 read as a promise to God’s people: when you go through waters, rivers, and fire, God is with you and you will not be destroyed.​

1. Honest acknowledgement that many feel they are “going through it” (days, months, even decades of trial).​

2. Personal testimony of Dave and Shelley facing the most difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual season of their marriage.​

3. Introduction of Mark 4: disciples in a literal storm used as metaphor for any life trial.​

1. Common application: Jesus stills our storms; affirmation that He can, does, and will.​

2. Central thesis: believers are not the main characters; the primary point is revelation of Jesus’ identity, not mere deliverance.​

3. If God rescues us but we do not gain a deeper revelation of Jesus, our faith will be shaken at the next storm.​

4. Key question from the text: “Who is this man?”—this is the heart of the narrative and the sermon.​

1. Jesus’ simple statement “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake” implies divine direction and assignment, not a casual trip.​

2. On the other side (Mark 5) is the demonized man with a legion; the crossing is about confronting hell and freeing a captive.​

3. Any call to follow Jesus and advance His kingdom will be opposed by powers of darkness; storms often accompany assignment.​

4. Demons recognize Jesus’ identity and authority even before the disciples do; they know His power over them.​

1. Enemy’s purpose: incite fear, paralyze faith, and block God’s purpose by overwhelming us with storms and problems.​

2. Some storms may be directly demonic; others are used by the enemy to assault mind, emotions, and focus.​

3. When overwhelmed by what we are going through, we forget what we are going to (our assignment).​

4. Disciples’ early lesson: following Jesus includes storms; in this world we will have tribulation, but Jesus has overcome.​

1. Fierce storm (earthquake-like on the water); seasoned fishermen are terrified as the boat fills with water.​

2. Core promise: Jesus is in the boat—in the midst of the storm—fulfilling God’s word, “I will be with you.”​

3. Call to defiantly declare God’s word over symptoms and senses: choose His word over sight, feelings, and thoughts.​

4. Warning: if we fail to discern the source of the storm, we fight the storm instead of the enemy behind it.​

1. Contrast: disciples terrified; Jesus asleep on a cushion—same boat, same storm, radically different response.​

2. It can feel like Jesus is present but passive, silent, or indifferent; these feelings are real but not true.​

3. Jesus’ inner rest flows from knowing His Father, His identity, His origin, His assignment, and His destiny.​

4. Believers likewise know their beginning (saved), their assignment, and their end (with Him), so anything in between is in the Father’s hands.​

1. Disciples’ cry “Teacher, don’t you care we are going to drown?” contrasts Jesus’ word “We’re going to the other side.”​

2. Only one declaration can be true; revelation of who He is corrects our conclusions about our situation.​

3. Critique of purely informational faith: information about Jesus must become Spirit-given revelation in our hearts.​

4. Areas dominated by fear reveal where we lack revelation of who Jesus is (e.g., healing, provision, family).​

1. Jesus responds to their cry by rebuking wind and waves with authority (“Silence, be still” / “shut up and knock it off”).​

2. Same language used to address demons, suggesting confrontation with spiritual forces behind the storm.​

3. Believers are invited to speak with that same delegated authority to the spirit behind the storm.​

4. Emphasis: the real battle is not with circumstances but with Satan, who seeks to destroy faith and block assignment.​

1. Immediate calm reveals Jesus is doing what only God does in the Old Testament—ruling the chaotic waters.​

2. This event unveils not just His power but His deity: Jesus is God, the eternal Word made flesh.​

3. After the calm, Jesus asks, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”—implying they need not have feared.​

4. The disciples become “absolutely terrified” in a holy way; divine presence is more awe-inspiring than any storm or demon.​

1. God’s purpose is not mere survival but thriving in the midst of storms through deeper revelation of Christ.​

2. What we magnify (storm or Jesus) will master us; magnifying Christ brings freedom from storm-mastery.​

3. Storms can serve as opportunities for maturity and revelation (James 1:2–4 referenced).​

4. Encouragement: do not wait for storms to seek revelation; build it now in the Word.​

1. Call to become a defiant people against the enemy, not against God: spiritual warfare, shouting, and praise.​

2. Personal example: walking around the house proclaiming God’s word, pleading the blood, attacking the devil by the Spirit and the Word.​

3. Use Scripture to declare truth over fear, sickness, and oppression; don’t believe everything you think.​

4. Weapons of warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to pull down strongholds and cast down imaginations.​

1. Corporate ministry time: congregation invited to the altar to declare who Jesus is, not just receive prayer.​

2. Long series of biblical declarations describing Jesus’ identity and work (never leaving or forsaking; bread of life; light; shepherd; vine; way, truth, life; resurrection and life).​

3. Christ as reconciler, sin-bearer, seated in highest honor, head of the church, victor over sin, death, and Satan.​

4. Christ as Alpha and Omega, visible image of the invisible God, creator and sustainer, Lamb slain yet standing, coming King.​

1. Congregational Jericho-style shout as an act of spiritual warfare, linked to breaking chains and walls falling.​

2. Second, louder shout encouraged, likened to (but surpassing) cheering at a football game (Super Bowl Sunday reference).​

3. Affirmation that walls are coming down, demons are fleeing, and victories are being won because of Jesus’ kingship.​

4. Dismissal: leave with praise, a shout, and an awareness of spiritual battle; take God’s word and do warfare in Jesus’ name

Speaker (Pastor Palo) shares personal transition from pastoring (last service Dec 29, 2024), emphasizing avoiding "professional faith" at age 56.​ Key scripture: Hebrews 11:8—Abraham obeyed by faith, going without knowing destination (cross-references Genesis 12:1).​ Highlights: No backstory/mentors for Abraham (age 75, pagan background); prioritize "yes" to God over clarity/prayers/fleeces; faith is promise, trust is process; discouragement disconnects from courage.​

• Obedience Now: "Leave, go, [God will] show"; promises are "yes" in Christ (2 Cor 1:20); avoid delaying like Israel's 40 years.​

• Trust Over Clarity: Stories of son stepping into water, Appalachian Trail supplies, Amish time ("three sunsets"); God as "very present help" (Ps 46).​

• Combating Discouragement: Praise/thanksgiving list; dream shifting from complaining to gratitude; enemy uses it like quicksand.​

Song: "I Give Myself Away" with lyrics emphasizing surrender ("My life is not my own... Let your will be done on earth").​ Prophetic prayers for individuals (e.g., Shiana for rest/leading; Denzel for mind healing; businesses/relationships to end; Oliver for rejection).​ Call to break discouragement, start businesses, obey God fully.

• Affirmation: the Bible is held in supreme authority above all other sources.

• It is infallible, inerrant, and authoritative.

• The pastor’s aim: communicate God’s Word truthfully and sincerely.

• The Word of God is inexhaustible, pure, powerful—like a seed that bears fruit.

• Analogy: the issue isn’t the seed (the Word of God), but the soil (the human heart).

• Types of soil issues: hardness, weeds, stones, debris.

• Call to prayer: for receptive hearts that produce lasting fruit.

• Encouragement: change is possible through God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.

• Introduction to Bible passage: Joshua 3.

• Sermon title: “Get Ready, Get Ready, Get Ready, Part 2.”

• Theme: God wants His people prepared to receive what He has planned.

• Two congregational testimonies shared:

  • Restored faith and renewed hope through prayer and fasting.

  • Family transformation—faith renewal, prayer habits, and Bible reading.

• Reinforcement: God is working in people’s lives today.

“Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”

• The message centers on two main parts:

  1. Our part – sanctify, prepare, consecrate ourselves.

  2. God’s part – He will do wonders among us.

• Warning against two extremes:

  • Some believe “it all depends on God”—do nothing.

  • Others act as though “it all depends on them”—trust in self.

• Biblical balance: we plant and water, but God gives the increase.

• Example: two farmers—one prepares by faith; the other does not. True faith acts.

• Reminder: God initiates and sustains His work of grace.

• Analogy: a small child “helping” carry groceries—the parent carries the real weight.

• Same with God—He carries us while we participate in faith.

• We need miracles because life presents impossible situations.

• God performs “exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask or think.”

• Miracles remind us: focus on the miracle worker, not the miracle.

• Context: Israel at the threshold of the Promised Land.

• The Jordan River in flood stage—an impossibility without divine help.

• Symbolism:

  • Crossing = moving from old life to new life.

  • Once crossed, there’s no going back.

  • Application: we must cross our own “Jordan” in faith.

• Reference to John 6: Disciples offended by Jesus’ hard teachings.

• Peter’s declaration: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of life.”

• Application: commitment to Jesus despite challenges—there’s no other way.

• Warning: when miracles occur, glory must go to God alone.

• Miracles exist to reveal who God is, not to glorify people or churches.

• The Lord says, “I will share my glory with no one.”

• The same God who parted the Jordan still does wonders today.

• Encouragement to believe for miracles in 2026 as He did in 2025.

• Observation: Growing hunger for God, especially among younger generations.

• The church’s mission: glorify God through faith and obedience.

• Example from missions work in Africa: obedience and prayer led to new opportunities.

• Lesson: God elevates His plans when we yield and seek His will sincerely.

• God’s anointing applies to every sphere—parenting, work, ministry.

• Don’t diminish “ordinary” callings; they matter to God.

• Pray that God’s glory shines through everything you do.

• Reference to David and Goliath: faith rooted in past victories fosters future courage.

• A believer’s testimony is unarguable proof of God’s reality.

• The Jordan did not part until the priests stepped into the water.

• Faith requires action; the miraculous follows obedience.

• Encouragement: take new steps in faith this year—don’t stay stagnant.

• Belief statements for 2026:

  • God will heal, restore, and break generational curses.

  • God will revive faith and anoint His people for fruitfulness.

  • Young generations will rise up for His glory.

• Call to prayer: declare God’s promises back to Him (“God, you said”).

• Encouragement: contending in faith honors God and aligns with His Word.

• Congregation invited to pray and worship.

• Song: “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is Upon Me.”

• Declaration: this is the year of God’s favor and wonders.

1. Extreme #1: People who think everything depends on God alone.

   • Passive faith; no personal effort (e.g., expecting blessings without action).

2. Extreme #2: People who think everything depends on themselves.

   • Self-striving faith; no prayer or reliance on God.

3. Balanced truth (Joshua 3:5):

   • Human responsibility → “Sanctify yourselves.”

   • Divine power → “The Lord will do wonders.”

   • A biblical tension: God acts, but we prepare.

1. Israel at the Jordan River.

   • On the threshold of the Promised Land after 40 years of wandering.

   • Consequence of earlier unbelief and disobedience.

2. The Ark of the Covenant.

   • Symbol of God's presence and holiness.

   • Instructions: follow it at a distance — reverence before a holy God.

3. The Crossing.

   • Jordan River in flood (½ mile wide); an impossible situation needing a miracle.

4. Spiritual parallel for 2026.

   • Represents transition into a new season filled with both blessings and unknowns.

1. Meaning of consecration.

   • To set apart, make holy, dedicate to God's purposes.

   • Synonyms: sanctify, purify, make acceptable to God.

2. Illustration: The church drums.

   • Ordinary objects made sacred through dedicated purpose.

   • Believers are called to the same — living for God’s glory.

3. Practical applications of consecration.

   • Self-examination and repentance of sin.

   • Renew commitment to God and His house.

   • Live holy lives — avoid spiritual compromise.

   • Commitment to consistent church involvement and ministry.

   • Stop gossip, negativity, and complaining; unity and obedience bring blessings.

   • Financial consecration: honor God with firstfruits.

   • Lifestyle consecration: avoid ungodly influences; guard media and relationships.

   • Relational accountability and transparency (illustrated through phone example).

   • Personal humility and ongoing sanctification — asking God to search the heart.

4. Examples of sacrifice and faith.

   • Pastor’s story about his wife leaving a high-paying law job to serve in ministry.

   • Lesson: Consecration often means sacrifice, but God multiplies what’s surrendered.

1. Nature of God's wonders.

   • Miracles, provisions, and supernatural acts demonstrating His glory.

   • Miracles reveal who God is, not just what He does.

2. Hope from Scripture (Romans 15:4).

   • Old Testament lessons written for our learning and to build hope.

   • The same God who parted the Jordan acts today.

3. Faith declaration for 2026.

   • God calls what is not as though it were — the promises are already in motion.

   • Prophetic declarations for the year:

     • Growth in intimacy with God.

     • Healing and restoration (“this sickness is not unto death”).

     • A rising young generation with holy passion.

     • God will rebuke the devourer.

     • Restoration of faith to believe again.

• Call for the congregation to stand, receive, and respond in faith.

• Affirmation that their fasting and prayer were part of consecration.

• Encouragement that God will release blessings long awaited.

• Exhortation to pray, worship, and believe for God’s wonders in 2026.

• Many new people in the church do not fully understand prayer and fasting.

• Long-time members also need renewed direction, inspiration, and encouragement from Scripture for an effective and profitable fast.

• Pastor’s personal struggle with coughing and mic; testimony of praying over the upcoming fast and the church.

• Realization: the Lord, as the Good Shepherd, cares more about the people and their fasting than the pastor does.

• Emphasis that believers must hear the Shepherd’s voice; call to open hearts and spirits to the Word and notes.

• Fasting described as a spiritual discipline taught in the Bible, not an afterthought or optional for Christians.

• Reference to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) and the three practices: praying, giving, fasting (“when you pray… when you give… when you fast,” not “if”).

• Reading/summary of Matthew 6:16–18:

  • Do not fast to impress others; keep normal appearance; the Father sees in secret and rewards openly.

• Clarification: corporate fast cannot be fully secret, but the heart motive still must be God-centered, not people-centered.

• Cultural critique: problem of overeating and food addictions; fasting is needed, not optional.

• Fasting brings health benefits; warning about “digging graves with forks and spoons.”

• Pastor’s personal testimony: fasting at the beginning of the year as a “reset” that affects months afterward and increases awareness of what is eaten.

• Time normally used for preparing, eating, and cleaning up can be redirected to prayer.

• Acknowledgment of family responsibilities; encouragement to use available time for prayer.

• Biblical link between fasting and prayer: example from Acts 13 (worshiping, fasting, Holy Spirit speaks, Paul/Barnabas set apart).

• Explanation of the church’s prayer schedule for the fasting week (Monday–Friday, 6:30–8:30 with personal prayer, worship, exhortation, and corporate prayer each night, plus guest ministers and special focuses).

• Fasting demonstrates how serious and desperate a person is about a prayer need.

• Challenge to those struggling with addictions, family issues, or sin to get desperate enough to say no to food.

• Story of a former pastor who listed God’s blessings and then asked, “What are you willing to do?”

• Scriptural support from Joel:

  • Call a holy fast, sacred assembly; return to God with all the heart, with fasting and weeping.

• Teaching that fasting “turbocharges” prayer and reaches the core of one’s being.

• Observation of revival signs: increased Bible sales, campus awakenings, baptisms, and renewed spirituality.

• Note that whenever God moves, the devil attacks (division, discouragement, defeat, depression, doubt).

• Emphasis that united prayer and fasting delivers decisive blows to the enemy.

• Scriptural examples:

  • Ezra 8:23 (“we fasted and prayed… and he answered”).

  • Isaiah 58:6 (fasting that loosens chains of injustice, breaks yokes, sets oppressed free).

• Testimony of church growth attributed to prayer and fasting (services, groups, leaders, missions).

• Warning: forward movement invites spiritual resistance, requiring vigilance and continued fasting.

• Often precedes major victories, miracles, and answered prayers.

• Examples listed:

  • Moses fasting before receiving the Ten Commandments.

  • Israelites fasting before miraculous victory.

  • Daniel fasting for guidance and understanding God’s plan (reading Jeremiah, receiving revelation).

  • Personal example: pastor fasting over whom to marry and other major decisions (work, place to live, business partnerships, missions trips).

  • Nehemiah fasting and praying before rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, completing a century-old problem in 52 days.

  • Jesus fasting 40 days before public ministry and during temptation in the wilderness.

  • First Christians fasting during key decision-making (Acts 13, etc.).

• Application: fast over important life decisions; don’t rely on human wisdom alone.

• Fasting is not:

  • Earning answers or manipulating God.

  • A hunger strike against God.

• Fasting is:

  • Aligning with God’s will and opening space for what God already desires to do.

• Health cautions:

  • Fast only as health allows; consider partial fasts if on medication, etc.

• Warning against “sneaky” or superficial consecrations (e.g., trivial fasting windows that cost nothing).

• Encouragement to make fasting truly sacrificial and appropriate to one’s work and physical capacity.

• Types of fasts mentioned:

  • Water fast (all food and juices abstained from; not recommended for everyone for five days).

  • Partial fast (eliminating certain foods or meals).

  • Juice fast (fruit or vegetable juices only).

• Counsel on nutrition and physical activity:

  • Ensure nutrients; limit strenuous exercise; do not let exercise become an excuse to skip prayer/fasting.

• Guidance on breaking the fast:

  • Avoid heavy foods immediately (e.g., burritos, large meals); ease back into eating with lighter foods like fruit.

• Corporate fast provides structure, accountability, and mutual encouragement.

• Testimony of previous years:

  • New believers and first-time fasters completing five days.

  • Past 21-day fast (juice/soup only) and challenges met by the congregation.

• Value of structure: same as work or school schedules; helps people follow through.

• Mention of attendance statistics from previous years and desire to see increased participation (with the reminder that numbers represent people, not pride).

• Jesus says “when you fast,” implying fasting is assumed for Christians.

• Note of a resurgence of fasting teaching in recent decades, including influence from African and global churches.

• Observation: when God prepares to move, he stirs people to prayer and fasting.

• Facing a crisis.

• Seeking God’s protection and deliverance.

• Called to repentance and renewal.

• Asking God for guidance.

• Humbling themselves in worship.

• Risk of empty ritual or fasting without meaning.

• Encouragement to start fasting and seek right motives as you go.

• Repeated call to hear the Good Shepherd’s voice and recognize that God wants to speak, guide, and bless more than people often realize.

• John Wesley quote: fasting must be done unto the Lord, with the eye singly fixed on Him, to glorify the Father.​

• Story of an Indian orphanage that fasts every Friday and calls it “feasting on Jesus,” praying specifically for the American church.

• Fasting starts with spiritual leaders and elders; leaders must model what they preach.

• Fasting often arises from spiritual desperation and urgency: “turn to me now while there is time.”

• Warning about increasing end-time deception; need for discernment and closeness to God.

• Fasting is more about focus than food; more about saying yes to the Spirit than no to the body.

• It is an outward response to an inward cry, an expression of brokenness and need.

• Calls to return to God with the heart, not just external religious acts (rending hearts, not garments).

• Fasting as response of a broken heart; God is drawn to the weak, broken, needy.

• Believers carry the immense responsibility to be salt and light, preaching the gospel to a lost world.

• Fasting is a humble response to this responsibility, seeking God’s help and power to fulfill the mission.

• Pastor expresses desire to communicate God’s heart and encourage participation in the fast.

• Emphasis that God wants to speak and move, and fasting clears space in the heart.

• Call to fresh consecration and commitment for individuals and families.

• Prayer that God will bless and strengthen everyone who takes part, and closing invitation to join nightly prayer during the fasting week.

• Psalm 139:5 – “You have hedged me behind and before and laid your hand upon me.”

• Psalm 31:15 – “My times are in your hands.”

• John 10:27–29 – Jesus declares that no one can snatch His sheep from His hand or the Father’s hand.

• Acts 11:21 – “The hand of the Lord was with them.”

1. Jacob’s House (Genesis 48) God crosses His hands, placing the greater blessing on the younger son Ephraim instead of Manasseh — a picture of grace and divine reversal. God often chooses the least likely.

2. Jesse’s House (1 Samuel 16) David, minimized and forgotten, is unexpectedly chosen and anointed as king. God crosses His hands again, preferring the humble over the mighty.

3. Jesus’ Household (The Disciples) Jesus chose ordinary, flawed people — fishermen, doubters, and even a tax collector — to show that divine purpose comes through grace, not human merit.

4. Jabez’s House (1 Chronicles 4:9–10) Jabez, born in pain, prayed that God’s hand would be with him — and God granted his request. No one is a mistake; we are miracles in God’s plan.

• Commit everything into God’s hands: Your spirit, family, and future.

• Adopt the word “Nevertheless” for 2026: Despite trials and uncertainty, the foundation of the Lord stands sure.

• Raise holy hands: A sign of surrender and participation in God’s ongoing work.

• Tommy (age 29 from Beverly, MA): shares about a good upbringing, losing both parents, a long struggle with alcoholism, a serious car crash, hospitalization, and being led to Adult & Teen Challenge; emphasizes submitting to Jesus as Lord and cites 2 Timothy 1:7–9 as a life verse.

• Second speaker (young man tied to Connecticut and Pawtucket): raised in church with pastor parents, runs from God, experiences deep drug addiction and trauma (including an abortion story), hears God calling his name, and comes to repentance through family prayer; uses this to introduce and emphasize the power of prayer cards.

• Third major testimony (Philip): raised in church and missions, drifts into heavy drinking, crime, and selling drugs and guns; ends up incarcerated with serious firearm charges; repeatedly hears about Teen Challenge, finally surrenders to God in jail, enters the program, and sees multiple charges dropped while experiencing deep brotherhood, conviction, and restored purpose.

• Explanation of prayer cards placed on chairs and an invitation for the congregation to fill them out with prayer requests, including examples of answered prayers linked to these cards (like a cousin in jail receiving confirmation not to leave the program.)

• Emphasis that “much prayer, much power” and that the cards help new residents learn to pray for others as well as themselves.

• A Teen Challenge leader explains his own long-term addiction, multiple rehabs, and eventual surrender to Christ and Teen Challenge, contrasting high state-funded treatment costs with Teen Challenge receiving no state addiction funding.paste.txt​

• Presents “resident sponsorship” as a way to help: one dollar a day ($30/month) to offset the cost for men in the program, using coffee purchases as a practical comparison.

• Mentions the carpentry shop and cutting boards/butcher blocks made and prayed over by residents, and gifting special boards to the pastors as a blessing over their home.

• Pastor affirms the service as a powerful display of life change rather than a typical sermon and briefly states the core of Christmas: Jesus came to save sinners and destroy the works of the devil, citing 1 Timothy 1:15 and 1 John 3:8.

• Invitation for people with addicted family members, broken relationships, or needs for healing to come forward; corporate prayer and worship close the service, stressing that God still does miracles and that Christmas is about Christ’s saving and delivering work.

• Many are discouraged by finances, the future, broken dreams, and depression.

• Even during the holidays, sadness often deepens for people without Christ.

• Key idea: We must understand the hope of Jesus ourselves before we can share it.

• Hope satisfies human longing for something better.

• Jesus Christ is the only one who can fill the inner void.

• Scriptural foundation:

  • Proverbs 13:12 — “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.”

  • Proverbs 23:18 — “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.”

• Deuteronomy 33:27 — God’s “everlasting arms” are our refuge.

• Illustration: a child running into his father’s arms—mirrors how believers should run to God.

• God’s arms are extended in comfort, guidance, and embrace.

• Isaiah and Deuteronomy emphasize God’s outstretched arm leading His people.

• Applications:

  • Run into God’s arms for help.

  • Don’t fold your arms at others returning to faith—welcome them with love and compassion.

• Story of the Prodigal Son: The father (representing God) sees his son coming from afar.

• Psalm 34:15 — “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous.”

• Examples of Jesus’ watchful eyes:

  • The woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:32).

  • Zacchaeus in the sycamore tree (Luke 19:5).

  • The widow’s offering (Luke 21:1–4).

• Message: God sees, notices, and acknowledges even unseen acts of faithfulness.

• Matthew 11:29 — Jesus is “gentle and humble in heart.”

• The heart of God is full of compassion.

• Scripture examples:

  • Matthew 9:36, 14:14, 15:32 — Christ’s compassion for the crowds.

• Ministry analogy: working with people requires “shifting gears” like a manual car; compassion guides those shifts.

• Having the heart of God helps believers love and relate well to others.

• Run into the arms of God.

• See people through God’s eyes.

• Reflect His compassionate heart in word and deed.

• Encourage one another within the church as well as outside it.

• The foundation of hope is Christ’s death and resurrection.

• Romans 8:31–39 — Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

• Communion as an act of remembrance for Jesus’ sacrifice and love.

• Gratitude expressed to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

• Illustration: A woman (“Janet”) changed her environment with joyful faith—“Jesus brings joy.”

• Believers are called to represent Jesus well in their words, behavior, and daily interactions.

• Christmas focus: keep Jesus—the greatest gift—at the center.

• Invitation to prayer and dedication at the altar.

• Reading and emphasizing Paul’s call to “awake out of sleep” because salvation is nearer than when believers first believed.​

• Call to cast off works of darkness, put on the armor of light, walk properly, and “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” making no provision for the flesh.​

• Explanation of “high time” as a critical, urgent moment requiring spiritual discernment.​

• Biblical examples: Jerusalem missing its “time of visitation” in Luke 19; churches of Ephesus (lost first love) and Laodicea (lukewarm).​

• Need for discernment of seasons (sowing vs. reaping), people, political and social issues, illustrated by the tribe of Issachar (understanding of the times).​

• Description of last days from 2 Timothy 3 (lovers of self, money, pleasure, form of godliness without power), applied to modern culture and social media.​

• Warning that Christians can be physically awake but spiritually asleep, citing Ephesians 5:14.​

• Signs of spiritual slumber: indifference to Bible, preaching, giving, serving, holiness; callousness and hardness of heart.​

• Testimony of a church member who realized he had been spiritually asleep, plus repeated calls: “Wake up the mighty men/women” (Joel 3:9).​

• Example of Samson: great anointing lost after being lulled to sleep by Delilah, leading to loss of sight, power, and discernment; warning from 1 Peter 5:8 to be sober and vigilant.​

• Explanation of “arrayed” as putting on, dressing, and clothing oneself with Christ and His righteousness.​

• Pastoral explanation of preaching strongly against sin out of love and responsibility to proclaim the whole counsel of God.​

1. Revelry and drunkenness

   • Defined as wild parties, nightclubs, casinos; warning that alcohol and exposed flesh create moral danger.​

   • Strong appeal against social drinking and minimizing drunkenness, noting family damage caused by alcohol.​

2. Licentiousness and lewdness

   • Defined as sexual immorality and debauchery; teaching that sex is for the marriage covenant only.​

   • Condemnation of fornication, adultery, pornography, and cohabitation outside marriage, with logical and biblical arguments.​

3. Strife and envy

   • Mentioned with the other sins as attitudes and behaviors that must be cast off to walk properly.​

• Reading of 1 Corinthians 6:9–11: list of sins (fornication, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality, drunkenness, etc.) that exclude from God’s kingdom, followed by hope in being washed, sanctified, and justified.​

• Emphasis that no sin is beyond God’s power to forgive and transform, but believers must repent and turn from it.​

• Definition of “make provision” as providing, accommodating, or facilitating opportunities for the flesh.​

• Practical applications: avoid drinkers if prone to alcohol, remove pay‑per‑view if struggling with lust, avoid gossipers if prone to gossip, do not attach to those who tear down leadership.​

• Specific rebukes: dating couples sharing hotel rooms or apartments, “playing house” for financial or convenience reasons; teaching that this is tempting the flesh and violates holiness.​

• Illustration: not climbing through “dumpsters of sin” while wearing Christ’s clean garments.​

• Allegorical story of Satan’s convention: demons decide the best strategy is to tell people there is time, lulling them into delay and spiritual sleep.​

• Final threefold call:

  • Be aware of the time.

  • Awake out of sleep.

  • Be arrayed in the armor of Christ.​

• Appeal for repentance, surrender, and practical steps (e.g., separating, seeking counseling, getting properly married) as evidence of true obedience and not “cheap grace.”​

• Invitation to the altar for all, noting both obvious and hidden sins, and insistence that the gospel is about change, new life, and ongoing dependence on the Holy Spirit.

• Personal testimony of receiving a message from God: “Prepare for divine interruptions.”

• Recent events (travel, ministry, tragedy) as context for this word.​

• Announces theme: “The Unsettling” – a holy disruption or spiritual stirring.

• Revival breaks out when God’s truth is misrepresented and people become desperate for Him.​

• References to Hebrews 12 (“a kingdom that cannot be shaken”) and Acts (especially chapter 16).​

• Distinguishes between revival and tradition, emphasizing authenticity over religion.​

• Story of Reinhardt Bonnke; the prophetic vision that “there is a key hanging over your head.”

• Obedience as the hinge for unlocking God’s doors.​

• Importance of the Book of Acts as an unfinished work of the Spirit.

• Context for Acts 16: struggles, perseverance, spiritual warfare.​

• Teaching: “Anyone can be a Sunday morning Christian – God’s looking for midnight Christians.”

• Central story: Paul and Silas in prison, praising God at midnight, leading to miraculous deliverance.​

• Warns about the opposition Christians face, especially mocking and suffocating spirits.

• Explains the “Python spirit” referencing Greek mythology and tying it to spiritual deception and restraint.​

• Personal stories of encountering evil in ministry and everyday life.

• Encourages the congregation to confront and defeat spiritual oppression with faith and worship.​

• Lament about shifting societal values and calls for the church to reclaim holy boldness.

• Urges people to take a stand for truth, regardless of persecution or mockery.​

• Emphasizes reviving personal and corporate prayer life.

• Personal testimony of hearing “symphonic music” as a sign of God’s nearness.​

• Repentance is necessary to “open the heavens” and bring breakthrough.

• Biblical references (2 Chronicles 7:14, personal family stories).​

• Contrasts gentle images of the Holy Spirit with the idea of Him as an invader who disrupts and transforms lives.

• Sharing of stories where the Holy Spirit’s visitation resulted in dramatic change.​

• New territory in life and faith requires a higher level of praise.

• Praising God breaks spiritual chains, brings deliverance, and can change atmospheres and families.​

• The congregation is called to the altar for unified, bold worship and intercession.

• Deliverance prayers and declarations for freedom from spiritual bondage.​

• Invitation for people to receive Christ or recommit.

• Group prayer for freedom, healing, and restored praise.​

• Encouragement to bring worship and faith into daily life beyond church meetings.

• Declaration of God’s faithfulness over finances, health, business, and family.​

• Review of Romans chapters 1–11: Paul presented biblical/theological foundations for salvation.

• Chapter 12: Practical application—responsibility to God and society.

• Chapter 13 (today’s focus): Responsibility to authority and neighbors.

• Authority is a challenging topic in modern times.

• Emphasizes a biblical rather than natural or emotional perspective on authority.

• Story from the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke): Religious leaders try to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar.

• Jesus’ response: Give Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God.

• The intent was to expose their motives and teach about priorities.

• God has instituted human governments for societal order and protection from wrongdoing.

• Government is meant to be a servant for people’s good and well-being.

• Christians are called to respect and cooperate with government, not to unconditional obedience.

• The Greek word for "submit" implies voluntary cooperation.

• When state laws conflict with God’s commands, believers must obey God’s word (Acts 4–5).

• Importance of interpreting scripture in context.

• All authority comes from God, whether we understand or like it.

• God places people in authority to fulfill larger purposes (examples: Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus, Herod).

• Followers are called to submit for the Lord’s sake and pray for those in authority (1 Peter 2:13, 1 Timothy 2:1–2).

• Leaders are expected to rule justly and will be held accountable by God.

• Followers must live righteously; everyone is responsible for their own choices.

• Roman centurion understood both earthly and divine authority.

• Authority flows from a higher source: God.

• Jesus commended the centurion’s great faith.

• Love is the solution to authority issues.

• Ongoing debt of love ("let your only outstanding debt be your debt of love").

• John 3:16 cited as the ultimate example of divine love.

• Greatest commandments: Love God and love your neighbor.

• Love fulfills the law and breaks the chains of authority issues.

• Culture distorts concepts like authority and love; scripture renews perspective.

• God’s authority is ultimate; believers are called to please and live for Him.

• Prayer that misunderstandings and misconceptions would be resolved through relationship with God.

• Encouragement to let Christ's image be formed in us, to be diligent, light in darkness, and to be salt in the world.

• Overview of Romans:

  • Chapters 1-3: Human depravity.

  • Chapters 4-5: Justification by faith.

  • Chapters 6-8: Grace, righteousness, and the work of Christ.

  • Chapters 9-11: Continuing theological foundations.

• Romans 12: A shift from theology (“information”) to practical Christian living (“transformation”).​

• Illustrates how technology and mobile devices shape attention, habits, and even identity.

• Warns against being "discipled" by digital culture rather than by Christ, noting its impact on mental health and spiritual focus.​

• Calls for intentional discipleship—making conscious decisions to prioritize spiritual growth.​

• Positional righteousness (what God has done for us)—must result in practical righteousness (how we live daily).

• Reference to Philippians 2: “Work out your salvation”—live out what God has worked within.​

• Transformation begins when believers allow the truths of Christ to reshape their attitudes and behaviors, not just gain knowledge.​

• Paul transitions from doctrine to rapid-fire practical exhortations:

  • Sincere, non-hypocritical love.

  • Abhorring evil, clinging to the good.

  • Honoring others, showing kindness.

  • Serving God with zeal and perseverance.

  • Being joyful, patient, constant in prayer.

  • Generosity and hospitality to those in need.

  • Blessing persecutors, living peacefully.

  • Humility, unity, overcoming evil with good (not retaliation or vengeance; let God be the judge).​

• Each aspect is meant to be lived out in the believer’s daily walk, reflecting true heart transformation.

• Addresses common criticism of “hypocrites” in the church; urges heart-change and consistency between belief and action.

• Cites biblical examples (David, Ezekiel) of prayers for a clean and renewed heart.​

• True transformation is evidenced as believers “work out” righteousness, practicing love, honor, kindness, prayer, generosity, and forgiveness.

• Congregation challenged to examine their own hearts, let go of mere religiosity, and embrace authentic spiritual growth.

• Communion performed as a practical and spiritual reminder of Christ's transformative work.

• Final encouragement to worship, gratitude, and living out transformation in everyday life.

• Paul’s discussion of the church as the “body of Christ”

• Each believer is given a measure of faith

• Every member has a unique function and gifts to contribute

• “One another” commands—responsibility to use gifts for the benefit of all.​

• The central metaphor: staying in your lane means focusing on your God-given gifts and not interfering with others

• Three main points for Christian living:

• Remain sensible, calm, and balanced

• Avoid pride and maintain sound judgment

• Think from a renewed mind rather than a worldly perspective

• Understand and accept your God-given measure of faith.​

• Importance of unity and diversity in the body of Christ

• Each part/member is valuable, even those not seen

• Analogy of the physical body for church function—every part is necessary

• Importance of belonging to a local congregation and working through relational challenges

• The diversity and mutual support commanded in the New Testament.​

• Everyone has spiritual gifts; all are called to use them actively

• Gifts listed: prophecy, serving, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading, and mercy

• Each role has its application and encouragement to use it effectively for the church’s betterment

• Emphasis on surrender: offering your abilities to God for his use.​

• The call to be the best original version of oneself, not a copy of others

• Surrender gifts and talents to God for them to be blessed and multiplied

• Prayer and encouragement to “surrender to Jesus” and fulfill one’s purpose within the community.

• Focus on Romans chapter 12; the message titled "Notion, Emotion, and Motion."

• Explanation of concept: Thoughts lead to feelings, and feelings lead to actions.

• Quotation: “Sow a thought, reap an act; sow an act, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.”

• Emphasis on the importance of thoughts.

• Recognition of common struggles: Negative emotions, destructive thoughts, bad habits, sins, fear, doubt, defeat.

• Affirmation: These chains can be broken through the Holy Spirit and God’s Word.

• The greatest struggle is within one’s own mind.

• The importance of winning the battle in one’s thoughts for victory in life.

• Challenge to rise above fear, doubt, and defeat.

• Change is possible, but begins in the mind.

• Biblical reference: Romans 12:1–2, emphasizing transformation through mind renewal.

• Explanation: Daily and continual process, not “one and done.”

• The impact of patterns of thought, neuroplasticity, and intentional mindset change.

• Romans 12:2: Do not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by renewing your mind.

• Explanation of worldly vs. biblical mindsets.

• Influence of media, music, TV, and culture on thoughts and attitudes.

• Comparison between worldly and biblical mindsets (Psalm 1).

• The importance of choosing friends and influences wisely.

• Biblical meditation vs. worry: thinking on scripture rather than problems.

• Challenge to take personal responsibility instead of blaming others.

• Story of struggling with a victim mentality and learning dependence on God.

• The significance of words and affirmation in shaping attitudes.

• Stories about speaking encouragement and its impact.

• Nehemiah’s story: remaining focused and persistent despite criticism and obstacles.

• The call not to “come down” or quit—stay committed to “great work.”

• Transformation begins with renewing the mind through God’s Word and Spirit.

• Closing prayer for renewed minds and lasting change.

• Invitation to worship and prayer.

• Focus on Romans chapter 12; the message titled "Notion, Emotion, and Motion."

• Explanation of concept: Thoughts lead to feelings, and feelings lead to actions.

• Quotation: “Sow a thought, reap an act; sow an act, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.”

• Emphasis on the importance of thoughts.

• Recognition of common struggles: Negative emotions, destructive thoughts, bad habits, sins, fear, doubt, defeat.

• Affirmation: These chains can be broken through the Holy Spirit and God’s Word.

• The greatest struggle is within one’s own mind.

• The importance of winning the battle in one’s thoughts for victory in life.

• Challenge to rise above fear, doubt, and defeat.

• Change is possible, but begins in the mind.

• Biblical reference: Romans 12:1–2, emphasizing transformation through mind renewal.

• Explanation: Daily and continual process, not “one and done.”

• The impact of patterns of thought, neuroplasticity, and intentional mindset change.

• Romans 12:2: Do not be conformed to the world, but be transformed by renewing your mind.

• Explanation of worldly vs. biblical mindsets.

• Influence of media, music, TV, and culture on thoughts and attitudes.

• Comparison between worldly and biblical mindsets (Psalm 1).

• The importance of choosing friends and influences wisely.

• Biblical meditation vs. worry: thinking on scripture rather than problems.

• Challenge to take personal responsibility instead of blaming others.

• Story of struggling with a victim mentality and learning dependence on God.

• The significance of words and affirmation in shaping attitudes.

• Stories about speaking encouragement and its impact.

• Nehemiah’s story: remaining focused and persistent despite criticism and obstacles.

• The call not to “come down” or quit—stay committed to “great work.”

• Transformation begins with renewing the mind through God’s Word and Spirit.

• Closing prayer for renewed minds and lasting change.

• Invitation to worship and prayer.

• Invitation to open Bibles to Romans chapter 9.

• Emphasis on the inspiration and life-changing nature of all Scripture (2 Timothy 3), and its use for teaching, correction, and righteous living.

• Encouragement for biblical thinking over political thinking.

• Statements on the prevalence of anti-Semitism, especially on campuses, media, and social media.

• Explanation of social media algorithms that reinforce certain biases and perspectives.

• Warning against being misled by partial or false narratives.

• Paul’s discourse (Romans 9-11) on Israel’s past, present, and future as God's chosen people.

• Exhortation: evaluate world events through the lens of Scripture, not politics.

• Explanation of “love not the world” as rejection of anti-God, anti-Christ systems.

• Account of pastor’s experience in Israel during Hamas attacks.

• Information on the war in Gaza, nature of terrorist attacks, and the international context.

• Note on other global conflicts with little outcry (Christians killed in Nigeria, Russia-Ukraine war), contrasting global reactions.

• Scriptural references to Israel’s unique status and prophetic destiny.

• Description of Hamas tactics and media manipulation.

• Encouragement to examine the spirit behind anti-Israel sentiment as anti-Christ.

• Reference to historical persecutions of Jews (Egypt, Esther/Haman, Nazi Germany, Book of Revelation).

• Explanation of Paul’s sorrow for his Jewish people and his prayers for their salvation.

• Affirmation that salvation is only through Jesus, even for Jews.

• Israel’s ongoing place in God’s plan; the church has not replaced Israel (“replacement theology” refuted).

• Israel’s restoration is future, connected to end-times prophecy (“fullness of Gentiles”, tribulation, and eventual salvation for the remnant).

• Encouragement for support and prayer for Israel and persecuted Christians worldwide.

• Testimony of blessing ministries in Israel, Arabs, and Palestinians.

• America and Israel are not perfect, but their biblical foundations are highlighted.

• Prayer for persecuted Christians, world peace, nations (Israel, Ukraine, Nigeria, Gaza), and churches.

• Commitment to biblical thinking, reading, and prayer for God’s people and for Israel.

• Encouragement to process the message biblically, not politically.

• Prayer for enlightenment and wisdom from Romans 9, 10, and 11.

• Final blessing and dismissal.

• The message as both a personal faith “test” and an evangelistic “tool”.​

• Self-examination according to biblical standards and the need for personal assurance of salvation.​

• Definition and significance of “The Roman Road” as a method of explaining the Gospel using Romans.​

• Highlighting the need for biblical absolutes and the dangers of moral relativism.​

• All have sinned (Romans 3:10, 3:23): universal sinfulness of humanity, illustrated through Scripture and life examples.​

• The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23): both spiritual and physical death as the result of sin, spiritual alienation from God.​

• God’s love and Christ’s sacrifice (Romans 5:8): God sent Jesus to die for sinners, offering redemption as a gift.​

• Salvation through confession and belief (Romans 10:9-10): faith leads to righteousness and transformation; true belief results in changed life and behavior.​

• Example of Zacchaeus as a model of life change upon meeting Jesus.​

• Justification and peace with God (Romans 5:1; 8:1): assurance of salvation, no condemnation, freedom from guilt, opportunity for continued spiritual growth and repentance.​

• Emphasis on personal evangelism; statistics on people coming to Christ through relationships.​

• The “Good Person Test” based on the Ten Commandments to emphasize universal need for grace.​

• Practical invitation to accept Christ’s free gift and assurance of salvation.​

• Leading the congregation in a prayer of repentance and faith.​

• Encouragement to live as new creations in Christ and to support and pray for new believers.

• Israel experienced judgment through a locust invasion as punishment for rebellion and idolatry.​

• Explanation of how locusts devastated crops, affecting the economy, joy, peace, and spiritual life of the people.​

• Comparison to personal experience: Times when people rely on other things instead of God—jobs, relationships, finances, etc..​

• God disciplines His people out of love, calling them back to Him through hardship and judgment.​

• The locusts symbolize both literal devastation and spiritual consequences: lost time, relationships, opportunities, and blessings.​

• Restoration in the biblical sense means returning to original quality, wholeness, and abundance.​

• God’s restoration surpasses human restoration—He can bring greater abundance, even after years of loss.​

• Restoration examples: material (jobs, finances), spiritual (joy, peace), relational.​

• Restoration is not automatic; it’s predicated on sincere repentance and genuine return to God.​

• Joel 2 calls people to turn to God with all their heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning—not just outward religious displays but true inward change.​

• "Rend your heart, not your garments": focus on inward brokenness and surrender, not external performance.​

• People must acknowledge wrong choices, seek God’s mercy, and let Him transform their hearts.​

• God’s promise goes beyond deserved judgment—He restores what was lost through sin, foolishness, or enemy attack.​

• Encouragement to believe and contend for restoration in one’s own life—God can turn losses into gains.​

• Restoration can come as new opportunities, relationships, or abundance, even if the original losses cannot be literally recovered.​

• Warning against relying on gimmicks or schemes for restoration—trust in God and live with character and integrity.​

• Illustration of "crab mentality": how some people may try to pull others down rather than support their success.

• Challenge to pursue restoration through genuine spiritual renewal and humility.​

• Corporate and personal prayer for faith to receive God’s promise, for hearts to be softened, and for restoration of what’s been lost or stolen.​

• Final encouragement: If hearts are turned to God, restoration is available to everyone who trusts and seeks Him.​

• A story and a video illustrate the experience of feeling spiritually thirsty and encountering grace.​

• Compares physical thirst (travel experiences, water) to spiritual thirst that only God’s living water can satisfy.​

• Central passage: John 4, Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan woman at the well.​

• The well represents a place for divine encounter, restoration, and change.​

• The importance of spiritual thirst and the role of the well as a place to meet God.​

• Jesus intentionally goes out of His way to meet the woman, underscoring divine appointments regardless of one’s past.​

• Details the Samaritan woman’s background: ostracized, broken, carrying shame, seeking fulfillment through relationships.​

• Jesus knows her past and future, cares for her, and shows there are no barriers to God’s love.​

• Every believer is “the one” sought by the shepherd (reference to the parable of the lost sheep).​

• Jesus offers “living water,” which meets deeper needs and provides ongoing spiritual satisfaction.​

• Drawing from scientific facts about water in the human body to illustrate our need for living water spiritually.​

• The living water symbolizes healing, restoration, and renewal.​

• Everyone has unique brokenness, pain, and spiritual crutches, but personal encounters with Jesus facilitate healing and transformation.​

• Testimony: Pastor Lisa’s story of adoption, rejection, and eventual healing through Christ’s living water.​

• Warns against settling for a religious routine and urges true relationship with Christ.​

• God wants believers to go deeper and develop authentic faith that brings freedom and peace.​

• Honest confrontation of sin and broken relationships as barriers to spiritual progress.​

• Emphasizes God’s ability and willingness to heal, restore, and provide grace, no matter one’s history.​

• True satisfaction and identity are found in Jesus alone, not in possessions or achievements.​

• A call to come to the altar, symbolically “the well,” for prayer, healing, and receiving living water.​

• Believers invited to confront their pain and desperation by seeking Christ for breakthrough and transformation.​

• Concludes with a prayer for God’s living water to fill and renew all present, reminding that the altar is a place for such encounters.

• Recognizes the challenges of modern life: evil, temptation, spiritual warfare, and demonic activity, especially in the end times.​

• Emphasizes the need for spiritual strength and victory amidst adversity.​

• Offers exhortation rather than a traditional sermon, aiming to stir faith and personal encounter with God.​

• Draws on the passage from Judges 2, focusing on generational changes in faith after Joshua’s time.​

• Warns of the danger when one generation knows God but the next only knows about God and not personally.​

• Illustrates with personal stories (e.g., travel and experiences in Africa) the gap between theoretical and experiential knowledge.​

• Stresses the importance of firsthand experience, not just secondhand stories or head knowledge.​

• Uses the metaphor of missing heaven by 18 inches (distance from head to heart).​

• Endorses experiential faith using biblical phrases like “taste and see that the Lord is good”.​

• References Jesus’ teaching in John 6 about the cost of discipleship and how it sifts followers.​

• Explains that true discipleship demands personal commitment and will cause offense or discomfort, but steadfastness comes from knowing God personally.​

1. Desire:

   • Hunger and thirst for God are essential; desire moves mountains (example of Helen Keller’s determination).​

   • Illustrates how other desires can compete with spiritual pursuit (e.g., gym vs. church attendance).​

2. Learning:

   • Importance of learning from older generations and maintaining humility to be taught.​

   • Describes mutual mentoring – older generation sharing wisdom, younger generation teaching new things (e.g., technology).​

   • References biblical examples and personal mentors who inspired and taught about God’s miracles.​

3. Pressing In:

   • Encourages persistent pursuit of God; spiritual growth involves pressing in, waiting, and preparing for God’s timing.​

   • Story of receiving the Holy Spirit’s touch during times of seeking, both in personal and church settings.​

• Addresses the breakdown between generations in passing on spiritual experience and faith.​

• Calls for bridging generational gaps in church; both young and old must value each other's strengths and contributions.​

• Invites the congregation to prayer, worship, and pressing in for personal encounters with God.​

• Encourages leaders and young people to seek fresh encounters; asks everyone to create space for seeking God without distraction.​

• Concludes with a challenge for ongoing spiritual hunger, continual learning, and pursuing God’s presence in the model of biblical figures like Caleb and Joshua.

• Explains "Throwback" as revisiting past traditions and memories, analogous to "Throwback Thursday" on social media.

• Shares personal throwback memories (outreach in Chad Brown, wedding, and anniversary).

• Advocates for using physical Bibles and valuing spiritual discipline in a digital age.

• Uses Joshua 14 and the story of Caleb as key scripture.

• Recaps Caleb’s history: spying out Canaan, bringing a good report, remaining faithful over decades.

• Discusses the effects of negativity and lack of faith in leadership, referencing how ten negative spies led to years of wandering.

• Importance of Vision and Faith: Only Caleb and Joshua saw possibility where others saw difficulty.

• Leadership and Influence: The speech and attitude of leaders affected the entire nation.

• The Danger of Focusing on Negatives: Illustrated by a parable about a remarkable dog.

• Power of Perspective: Encourages attendees to see the good and act in faith.

• Remembering God's Word: Caleb retained God’s promise for 45 years.

• Mixing the Word with Faith: Using Hebrews 4:2 and a humorous brownie mix analogy; the Word must be combined with faith to be effective.

• The Role of the Holy Spirit: Reminds us of God’s teachings when we have invested in learning them.

• Being Intentional: Recommends joining life groups and reading the Bible regularly; repetition is key.

• Caleb’s Commitment: He "wholly followed" the Lord; true faith means consistent devotion, not selective obedience.

• God’s Enabling Grace: Even imperfect people can live in faith through God’s empowerment.

• Endurance and Patience: Sometimes promises take decades to fulfill, but faith requires waiting and perseverance.

• Caleb’s Strength in Old Age: Despite being elderly, he feels as strong and capable as ever, ready to claim new challenges ("Give me this mountain").

• Application for Today: Believers are encouraged to remain strong spiritually, regardless of age or circumstances.

• Upcoming spiritual practices: Encouragement to engage in prayer and fasting.

• Closing Prayer: Asking God for renewal, faith, strength, and the spiritual inheritance promised.

• Bernard expresses gratitude to Senior Pastor Richard and Pastor Lisa.

• Occasion: 36th church anniversary, international service.

• Bernard humbly accepts the opportunity to speak and share the good news of Jesus Christ.

• Encouragement to reflect on the strongest force in the universe: love, specifically the love of God.

• God's love described as eternal, unchanging, and foundational.

• Focus on unconditional (agape) love, not romantic or materialistic love.

• Story of a village fire: neighbors show overwhelming love and support to a woman who lost everything.

  • Love stronger than the devastation caused by the fire.

• International service: church as a community of 26 nations, demonstrating God’s love through unity and cultural celebration.

• Biblical description of love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, paraphrased):

  • Love is patient, kind, not envious or boastful, not proud.

  • Does not dishonor, is not self-seeking or easily angered.

  • Keeps no record of wrongs, rejoices in truth, always protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres, never fails.

• Call to consistently demonstrate these biblical attributes of love.

• Reference to John 3:16: God's gift of his only son as act of unconditional love.

• Example of Christ’s sacrifice—pleading for forgiveness, promise to the thief: “You will be with me in paradise.”

• Analogy: judge takes punishment upon himself—parallels Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity.

• Quote of John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give you, love one another…”

• Must demonstrate love for others; cannot claim love for God while hating others.

• Parable of the prodigal son: father’s unconditional love and forgiveness; call to emulate this.

• Romans 5:8: God’s love demonstrated while we were still sinners.

• Example: missionaries risking life for the gospel—sacrificial love.

• No one can outgive God; God’s gifts surpass all.

• Genesis 1:31: God declares his creation “very good” as a sign of his love.

• God's deliverance in biblical history: freeing Israel from Egypt, crossing the Red Sea.

• Love like a shepherd rescuing a lost sheep.

• Romans 8:38-39: nothing can separate us from God’s love.

• God’s love is likened to a lighthouse—guiding through storms.

• God’s love is the greatest gift, endures forever, accessible to all.

• Challenge to receive and share this love unconditionally: “Love is like a candle, it doesn’t lose light by lighting another.”

• Call for unity and acts of love among church community.

• Closing prayer of thanksgiving, blessing, and request to show sacrificial love.

• Biblical definition: Faith as the “substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

• Faith is confidence in God’s promises and His character.

• Every believer has a “seed/measure” of faith—faith given by God (Romans 12).

• Faith as a muscle: grows stronger through use, challenges, and spiritual exercise.

• Warning against comparing levels of faith among believers.

• Personal testimony: growth through spiritual trials and resistance, analogy to physical training.

• Essential for pleasing God: “Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6).

• Two elements: belief that God exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.

• Faith is required in every circumstance; God knows individual limits and provides grace for endurance.

• Examination of Paul’s concern for faith in the church (1 Thessalonians 3).

  • Paul’s repeated focus on the faith of the congregation rather than external measures.

• What Paul didn’t emphasize: not the size, budget, or facilities of the church.

• Critique of cultural (non-biblical) values in assessing church success.

• Dangers of equating “bigness” or material signs with spiritual greatness.

• Examples:

  • 85% of American churches have fewer than 200 people, illustrating that size is not the key measure.

  • Example from church history: Charles Spurgeon’s conversion in a small chapel, demonstrating greatness is about spiritual impact, not size.

• The importance of keeping “the main thing the main thing”—focus on the growth and exercise of faith.

• Individuals and churches must prioritize spiritual metrics over worldly metrics.

• Review of “the cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 11-12.

• Faith exemplars: those who faced challenges and saw God’s faithfulness.

• The value of biographies/autobiographies of Christians for practical insights into a life of faith.

  • Example: George Mueller’s dependence on faith for provision.

• Recognition of current church members as examples of faith and faithfulness.

• Identifying and “laying aside every weight”:

  • Bitterness, unforgiveness, distractions, and past failures.

• Analogy of running a race: shed anything that slows spiritual progress.

• Biblical example: Paul “forgets what is behind and presses on.”

• The need for “divine forgetfulness” and remembrance of what matters (the cross, God’s promises).

• Faith requires perseverance, endurance—keep moving forward despite obstacles and struggles.

• Examples of perseverance from secular figures (Walt Disney, Einstein, Churchill, Lincoln) to illustrate endurance.

• Claim: with the Spirit of God, believers have even greater potential for perseverance.

• Encouragement for listeners to resolve to succeed and trust in God’s enabling power.

• The source and goal (“author and finisher”) of faith is Jesus.

• Spiritual direction comes from focusing on Christ—not on people or circumstances.

• Analogy: Just as a runner focuses on the finish line, Christians must fix their gaze on Jesus.

• Biblical example: Peter walking on water by looking at Jesus, sinking when distracted by the storm (Matthew 14).

• Isaiah 26:3—Perfect peace comes from “mind stayed on Thee.”

• Hymn: “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” used to reinforce the point.

• The danger of spiritual distraction; importance of continual refocusing on Christ.

• Story: Beach analogy—currents can pull us off course unnoticed, requiring realignment.

• The cross of Christ as a central, guiding reference for believers.

• Regular course corrections are necessary due to “the currents” of worldly distractions and sin.

• Importance of always coming back to Christ and the cross.

• Self-examination: Is your faith growing? Are you focused on Jesus?

• Urge to lay aside distractions/weights and make the necessary spiritual adjustments.

• Invitaton for reflection, response, prayer, and renewed commitment as the service closes.

• Continuation of last week’s sermon: “Don’t Stop Believing”
  • Central theme: The importance of faith
• Church communications and resources
  • Plan to distribute more tools (study notes, questions, etc.)
  • Request for members’ contact information for improved communication
  • Emphasis: Church is not just about large attendance, but engagement and making disciples

• A. Contrast: Mere attendance vs. engagement and discipleship
  • Mission to make disciples, not just fill seats
  • Desire for everyone to participate in the mission
• Illustration: “Church is not a show”
  • Story of the complaining church family and the child’s remark
  • Clarification: True purpose is the kingdom of God and being a church on mission

• Reading the passage: Call to run the race with endurance
  • Surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses”
  • Laying aside every weight and sin
  • Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith
  • Enduring hostility/persecution
• Context of Hebrews
  • Audience: New Jewish believers facing persecution and discouragement
  • Emphasis on Jesus’ supremacy (greater than Moses, angels, law, etc.)
  • Faith as a central theme—challenge to keep believing despite opposition

• The cost and value of faith
  • Faith is precious and under attack by the enemy
  • Analogy: No one protects garbage; faith is worth guarding
• Scriptural support: 1 Peter 1:6–7
  • Faith tested by trials is more precious than gold
  • Faith defined as taking God at His word, trusting His promises
• The devil’s strategy
  • Destroy faith to win the war for your soul
  • Example: Peter’s denial—Jesus prayed for his faith, not his flawless behavior
    • Faith enables recovery from failure; without faith, all is lost
  • Restoration possible in every area if faith remains

• Relating to listeners facing severe trials
  • Message: Keep running, keep believing, keep trusting God
• Faith Lessons from Hebrews 12:1–4
  • Prompt: “I need to learn more about faith.”

• Theme connection: VBS and the armor of God
  • Shield of faith in spiritual warfare
  • Attack of the enemy represented as “fiery darts”
• Practical reminder: The armor and shield are necessary for those following Christ
  • Emphasis on being targeted by the enemy after choosing Christ

• Examples of Faith
  • Long-distance race imagery—a “cloud of witnesses”
  • Heroes of faith in Hebrews 11: Overcame challenges through faith
  • Romans 15:4—Scripture written for our learning and hope
• Hindrances of Faith
  • Laying aside “every weight and sin”
    • Illustration: Man with backpack in church = symbolic of carrying burdens
    • Every person has weights unique to them; these hinder the race
  • Philippians 3:12–14—Forgetting the past, pressing to the future
    • Weights may be past hurts, offenses, or nostalgia for “good old days”
    • God grants “divine forgetfulness;” past loses its sting through grace
    • Warning: Some people’s lives are diminished by holding onto the past
    • Everyone gets hurt—must let go of past to move forward
    • Analogy of car: Rear view mirror vs. windshield
    • Not just bad things—even good things can keep you from the best
  • Example from business literature: Jim Collins’ “stop doing list”
    • Need for focus and discipline; not every opportunity is for you

• Personal examples (Clergy Day, Black Hawk helicopter story)
  • • Temptation to take on too much, even good things, but must focus on God’s specific calling
    • Pastor’s personal callings—pastoring, discipling, international ministry
    • Not every door is yours to walk through

• Key emphasis: Learning to persevere/endure
  • Life of faith is a marathon, not a sprint
  • Everyone must run their race for a lifetime
  • Many start but give up because of opposition/discouragement
  • Greek word “hupomonē”—active, determined perseverance despite hardship
  • Perseverance needed in all areas: marriage, raising kids, ministry, career
• Illustrations:
  • Father-son story—Elmer MacLurkin (a joke to show the importance of perseverance)
  • Famous perseverance quote: Winston Churchill—“Never, never, never give up”
  • Bible college anecdote: “Never, never, never quit”—words that rang true over time
• Practical encouragement
  • Heroes like Noah and Abraham persevered over decades for God’s promise
  • Breakthroughs often come after the hardest trials—don’t quit before your breakthrough
  • God’s grace picks you up after you fall; faith enables you to keep going

• The way to persevere: Prayer and the Word
  • Grace for endurance comes through prayer, worship, and Scripture
  • Not about willpower, but about God’s grace working in you
  • Ministry anecdote: “You can quit Sunday afternoon, just show up Monday morning.”
• Final appeals
  • Don’t quit: on God, on relationships, on dreams, on your walk
  • Don’t miss your breakthrough—greatest attacks precede the next season
  • Reiterate: “Don’t quit. Don’t give up. Never, never, never quit.”
• Closing prayer
  • Ask God to ignite and strengthen the people’s hearts with truth
  • Call for going forward, not quitting, renewed by God’s grace in word and prayer
  • Recap: The critical, non-negotiable importance of daily connection to God’s Word and prayer

Using the imagery from Hebrews 12, believers are reminded that following Jesus is not a sprint but a marathon. Life in Christ requires perseverance and a willingness to continue through battles, spiritual attacks, and moments of doubt. The encouragement is plain: Don’t stop believing.

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith...”

• The Christian journey is long and demanding, requiring perseverance, not a short burst of effort.

• Life brings seasons of spiritual honeymoon and also testing, but through faith, every hardship can be overcome.

Hebrews 12 begins with a reminder that we are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” referring to the faith heroes listed in Hebrews 11. These individuals—Abraham, Moses, Samson, Gideon, and others—demonstrated faith amidst suffering, deprivation, and daunting obstacles.

• Their stories assure us: If they made it, we can too.

• Their testimonies cheer us on, encouraging us to keep running and believing despite all circumstances.

Believers today have more resources—the full Bible, stories, and testimonies—than those early heroes did, yet the call is the same: keep the faith.

The passage urges us to “lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily entangles.” Like a runner shedding unnecessary gear, believers must let go of anything holding them back from wholeheartedly following Christ.

Practical Weights to Lay Aside:

• These are not just bad habits, but actual spiritual weights that slow our progress and can keep us from finishing strong.

• The passage highlights personal responsibility: We must choose to lay these aside.

The passage distinguishes between “weights” (various hindrances) and “the sin”—which, in context, is unbelief.

• Unbelief is not a minor issue to God; it reflects a lack of trust in His promises and a turning away from His truth.

• The greatest obstacle to enduring faith is not hardship, but losing faith in the faithfulness of God.

“See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” (Hebrews 3)

• Like athletes, we don’t compete against each other, but run our own race, in our own lane. The victory is not comparison, but completion.

• The faithful who went before us testify: hardships can be overcome, faith can triumph, and God remains true.

• Lay aside every weight: Make choices that honor God over comfort or distraction.

• Persevere through unbelief: Trust in God’s Word and His purposes, even when you cannot see the end.

Let these truths settle in your heart:

• You are not running alone. The “crowd of witnesses” testifies to God’s faithfulness through all generations.

• It’s too soon to quit. Don’t let weights or unbelief keep you from the victory promised to all who finish.

• The prize is eternal. While runners in ancient games received crowns that faded, your reward in Christ is everlasting.

Stay encouraged. Don’t stop believing. Lay aside whatever holds you back, and run with endurance—the Author and Finisher, Jesus, is waiting at the finish line.

• Message theme: God redeems human brokenness and transforms lives through Christ.

• Illustrative anecdote: People delay coming to church until they “get their life right,” likened to trying to fix a car before seeing a mechanic.

• Critique of religious pretense: Church attendees often “fake it,” pretending to have life figured out rather than seeking healing.

• Call to honesty and humility: Acknowledges that all are “in the process” of healing and need grace.

• Concludes by introducing guest speaker Brenna Kate Simonds, inviting her to speak.

Brenna is a missionary working with the LGBT community and directs the Alive in Christ ministry. She shares her personal testimony and views on sexuality, sanctification, and the church’s role in discipling people dealing with same-sex attraction.

• Mission: Christ-centered, interdenominational discipleship and mentoring for individuals dealing with same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria, including their families and churches.

• Methods: Zoom-based support groups for:

  • Men with unwanted same-sex attraction

  • Women with same-sex attraction

  • Friends and family of LGBT-identified individuals

• Philosophy: Freedom is found in obedience to Christ, not necessarily the absence of temptation.

• Emphasizes discipleship over instant transformation, inspired by the Great Commission.

Includes a brief theology of sexuality rooted in a conservative Evangelical worldview:

• Sexual intimacy reserved for marriage between a man and woman.

• Transformation is a lifelong process guided by Romans 12:2 (“be transformed by the renewing of your mind”).

• Same-sex attraction is not chosen, but acting on it is considered sin — temptation itself is not sin.

• Comparison to other temptations: Parallels drawn with addiction (e.g., Teen Challenge), emphasizing obedience amid ongoing struggles.

Brenna shares her life story with vulnerability and detail:

• Childhood trauma: Born premature; alcoholic mother; relational neglect from parents.

• Bullying in junior high, leading to internalized lies of being “flawed” and “unlovable.”

• At age 15, fell in love for the first time—with a female best friend, leading to a romantic relationship.

• During that period, lacked support or guidance; identified herself as "homosexual" based on available information at the time.

• Built her identity around being gay for ten years, believing the message: “You were born this way, embrace it or you'll never be happy.”

• Uses the story of the rich young ruler to highlight how individuals can:

  • Base life decisions on prior experiences and external messages.

  • Struggle to surrender things they believe define them.

• Message: Christ calls everyone to surrender what they cling to—whether wealth, identity markers, or cultural acceptance—for sake of full devotion to Him.

Simonds introduces data from the book Us Versus Us (by Andrew Marin) outlining how the LGBT community experiences faith and religion:

• Majority of LGBT individuals were raised in communities of faith.

• Highlights disconnect between how churches treat people who struggle with drugs/addiction (with grace and redemption paths) vs. those dealing with same-sex attraction (often judged based on whether they still experience temptation).

• Brenna is an author of two books:

  • Learning to Walk in Freedom – a discipleship resource.

  • Lessons from Joshua – a devotional book.

• She has a speaking ministry and engages audiences often interactively with storytelling and questions.

• Healing and transformation require honesty, discipleship, and time.

• Jesus invites all people, including those with complex pasts and identities, into full relationship with Him.

• Same-sex attraction is viewed as a temptation, not sin, and transformation involves spiritual rather than sexual orientation change.

• The church must improve its witness and compassion to the LGBT community.

• Broad ministerial reach: local, national, international.

• Upcoming trip to Ghana for a mental health seminar at a university.

• Reference to New York’s “Son of Sam” case: David Berkowitz.

  • Berkowitz's conversion in prison.

  • Caparelli’s correspondence and 100-hour interview project.

  • Book: Monster Mirror – 100 Hours with David Berkowitz.

• Discussion of Netflix documentary: "Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes."

  • Caparelli interviewed as a behavioral psychologist.

  • Requirement that Berkowitz’s conversion story be included.

  • Anticipation of the documentary’s spiritual impact.

• Berkowitz’s violent past: serial murders, arson.

• His imprisonment and Christian conversion.

• Emphasis on the authenticity and longevity of Berkowitz’s faith.

• Correspondence with Craig Price, another infamous criminal.

  • Price now reading Monster Mirror in prison.

  • Caparelli’s belief in redemption for even the “worst offenders.”

  • Clarification: advocating spiritual, not legal, freedom.

• Overview of books:

  • Dr. Jesus – devotions on mental health.

  • Pain in the Parables – recovering from trauma.

  • Surviving Feelings – recovering from dark emotions.

• Prayer for the congregation.

• Statement: The Bible as the greatest psychology textbook.

• Framing the passage: the lame man’s story as an allegory for everyone’s struggles.

• Prayer for freedom from emotional, spiritual, physical, and financial paralysis.

• Reading and explanation of John 5:3-14 (paralytic at Bethesda).

  • Emphasis on the longevity of the man’s condition (38 years).

  • Jesus’ question: “Do you want to get well?”

    • Difference between needing/wanting healing.

    • Risks of adapting to dysfunctional conditions.

• Human adaptability: strength and danger in adapting to dysfunction.

  • Adaptation to negative conditions can lead to a victim mindset.

• University of Adoption study: Victim mentality.

  • Scar experiment: perception of victimhood affects interactions.

• Biblical case study: Naomi/Mara in Ruth 1.

  • Transition from trauma as event to trauma as identity.

• Jesus’ focus on engaging the man’s mind/will, not just his condition.

• Distinction between healing the sick and delivering the stuck.

• Description of the animal’s physical ability but psychological captivity.

• Application: psychological and mental barriers limit freedom, not physical ones.

• 38 years of relying on others, forming habits.

• Neuropsychology: habit wiring in the brain.

• Repetitive mistakes: "Pete and Repeat" analogy.

  • Example: Disciples fishing from same spot (John 21).

• The man’s excuse: “I have no one to help me.”

• Analysis: Excuses as self-entrapping.

• “Hidden rescue wish” – waiting for someone else.

• Jesus’ imperative: “Pick up your mat and walk.”

• Principle: Personal responsibility for change.

  • Jesus does not do legwork for those unwilling to put in footwork.

  • Emotional exhaustion of trying to help those unwilling to help themselves.

• Social/financial incentives to remain unwell (begging mat, benefits).

• Jesus’ challenge: “See, you are well. Stop sinning.”

• Warning against victim identity becoming a form of exemption and entitlement.

• Modern context: proliferation of psychological diagnoses, medicalization of struggles.

• Struggles with depression and institutionalization as a youth.

• Approval for SSDI (disability benefits) despite functional capacity.

• Experience of salvation and transformation—eventual choice to discontinue benefits.

• Illustration of “leaving the mat” as a metaphor for responsibility and healing.

• Call to the congregation: recognize when conditions become mindsets.

• Central question: “Do you want to get well?”

• Invitation to the altar: for those with longstanding problems, habits, or suffering.

• Call-outs for insomnia: prayer for sleep restoration.

• Instruction: Trust God’s wakefulness, relinquish worry.

• Call for those lacking hope: prayer for renewal of hope and dreams.

• Call for anxiety: explanation of avoidance as root; prayer for courage and confrontation.

• General encouragement: face challenges directly, break patterns of avoidance.

• Warning against running from relationships, jobs, or church.

• Affirmation of church community as a place of support rather than adversity.

• Praying for church leadership (Pastor Richard & Lisa).

• Acknowledgment of their role and covering in prayer.

• Upholding leaders during times of rest and service.

• Scripture Reference: Psalm 71:17-18

  • God’s faithfulness through the years and the plea not to be forsaken in old age.

  • Desire to declare God’s strength to future generations.

• Opening Prayer:

  • Invitation for God to shake, elevate, and transform the congregation.

  • Request for destruction of anything in believers that hinders growth and for building up of godly attributes.

• Main Problem Identified: Many seek to add Jesus to their existing lives rather than allowing transformation.

• Jesus requires removal and destruction of sin and corruption before new life can be built.

• “Wondrous” defined as supernatural and distinguishing God from all else.

• Testimony of personal transformation experienced outside hospital walls; “operations” on the heart with God in moments of desperation.

• Salvation as the Greatest Miracle

  • Salvation brings radical change; if unexplainable, may indicate lack of true conversion.

  • Personal background: Raised as a devout Catholic, free from major vices (drugs, alcohol), but still bound by internal demons and strongholds.

  • Story of meeting wife, subsequent heartbreak, and depression after a breakup.

• College Experience and Divine Interruption

  • Call to “study” led supernaturally to a Campus Crusade for Christ encounter.

  • Reluctance due to Catholic upbringing; avoidance of Christian peers.

• Season of Depression and Spiritual Brokenness

  • Deep discouragement and bitterness after receiving a “Dear John” letter.

  • Admits religious people can be most apt to curse God during trials.

  • The critical turning point: Realizing personal guilt and the need to repent, not just be sorry.

  • Repentance results in lifted depression and spiritual transformation.

  • Reconnection with original love interest—who becomes his wife and spiritual influence.

• Stress on the significance of reading and loving the Word of God.

• Contrast between past and current approaches to Scripture engagement.

• The expectation that immersion in the Word changes worship and life experience.

• Pride as the chief enemy of spiritual growth, even greater than obvious sins.

• Biblical reference: Ephesians 1:12—life must be for the praise of God’s glory.

• God resists pride, and spiritual progress demands humility and repentance.

• Reference to Romans 6:13: Presenting one’s body and life to God, not to sin.

• Expectation that Satan will oppose serious growth through guilt and condemnation.

• Solution: Hate sin, not oneself. Stand in Christ’s grace while seeking true deliverance.

• Real-life story of overwhelming rage and jealousy as a young Christian.

• Biblical reference to Galatians 5 on the “works of the flesh” (including outbursts of wrath).

• Honest confession, prayer, and deliverance from controlling sin.

• Emphasis that true liberation requires honest recognition and surrender of sinful areas.

• Two-part Appeal:

  • Those needing salvation—to step forward, repent, and receive Christ as Savior.

  • Believers with areas not fully surrendered—to step forward for prayer and confession, seeking deliverance and transformation.

• Practical instructions for coming forward: Find space, stand alone, don’t wait for intercessors—God meets the individual directly.

Summary: The sermon combines personal testimony, urgent teaching on transformation and repentance, and practical instructions for spiritual growth. It challenges superficial faith, underscores the necessity of inner change, and guides listeners to move from pride and spiritual stagnation to humility, repentance, and a deeply surrendered walk with Christ.