Petra Church International Ministries

2 Corinthians 5:10 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.   Revelation 20:11-15 11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. 13 And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done. 14 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.   Introduction: The Reality We Often Avoid   The Certainty of Judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10)   The Nature of Judgment: Justice and Truth (Revelation 20:11–12) Salvation Is Secure (Revelation 20:15; 2 Corinthians 5:21) Works Still Matter (2 Corinthians 5:10) Grace and Responsibility (Ephesians 2:8-10) Application: How We Must Live     1.    Live Responsibly     2.    Serve Faithfully     3.    Examine Carefully 

Acts 1:6–11; 6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 13 But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. 15 For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.   Introduction: The Hope That Defines the Christian Life The Certainty of Christ’s Return (Acts 1:9–11) The Resurrection Hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13–16)  The Glory of His Return (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17) Comfort for Believers (1 Thessalonians 4:18) Application: How We Must Live      Live Ready     Encourage One Another     Live with Eternal Perspective Conclusion: The King Is Coming  

Daniel's Vision of the Four Beasts 7 In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon, Daniel saw a dream and visions of his head as he lay in his bed. Then he wrote down the dream and told the sum of the matter.2 Daniel declared,[a] “I saw in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the great sea.3 And four great beasts came up out of the sea, different from one another.4 The first was like a lion and had eagles' wings. Then as I looked its wings were plucked off, and it was lifted up from the ground and made to stand on two feet like a man, and the mind of a man was given to it.5 And behold, another beast, a second one, like a bear. It was raised up on one side. It had three ribs in its mouth between its teeth; and it was told, ‘Arise, devour much flesh.’6 After this I looked, and behold, another, like a leopard, with four wings of a bird on its back. And the beast had four heads, and dominion was given to it.7 After this I saw in the night visions, and behold, a fourth beast, terrifying and dreadful and exceedingly strong. It had great iron teeth; it devoured and broke in pieces and stamped what was left with its feet. It was different from all the beasts that were before it, and it had ten horns.8 I considered the horns, and behold, there came up among them another horn, a little one, before which three of the first horns were plucked up by the roots. And behold, in this horn were eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking great things. The Ancient of Days Reigns  9 “As I looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of Days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames its wheels were burning fire. 10 A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened. 11 “I looked then because of the sound of the great words that the horn was speaking. And as I looked, the beast was killed, and its body destroyed and given over to be burned with fire.12 As for the rest of the beasts, their dominion was taken away, but their lives were prolonged for a season and a time. The Son of Man Is Given Dominion 13 “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. 14 And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed. Daniel's Vision Interpreted 15 “As for me, Daniel, my spirit within me[b] was anxious, and the visions of my head alarmed me.16 I approached one of those who stood there and asked him the truth concerning all this. So he told me and made known to me the interpretation of the things.17 ‘These four great beasts are four kings who shall arise out of the earth.18 But the saints of the Most High shall receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, forever and ever.’ 19 “Then I desired to know the truth about the fourth beast, which was different from all the rest, exceedingly terrifying, with its teeth of iron and claws of bronze, and which devoured and broke in pieces and stamped what was left with its feet,20 and about the ten horns that were on its head, and the other horn that came up and before which three of them fell, the horn that had eyes and a mouth that spoke great things, and that seemed greater than its companions.21 As I looked, this horn made war with the saints and prevailed over them,22 until the Ancient of Days came, and judgment was given for the saints of the Most High, and the time came when the saints possessed the kingdom. 23 “Thus he said: ‘As for the fourth beast, there shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, which shall be different from all the kingdoms, and it shall devour the whole earth, and trample it down, and break it to pieces. 24 As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings shall arise, and another shall arise after them; he shall be different from the former ones, and shall put down three kings. 25 He shall speak words against the Most High ,and shall wear out the saints of the Most High,and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand for a time, times, and half a time. 26 But the court shall sit in judgment, and his dominion shall be taken away, to be consumed and destroyed to the end. 27 And the kingdom and the dominion and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High; his kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.’ 28 “Here is the end of the matter. As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me, and my color changed, but I kept the matter in my heart.”   Introduction: When the World Feels Out of Control Background: Understanding Daniel 7 Earthly Kingdoms: Powerful but Temporary (Vv. 1-8)  The Ancient of Days: God Is on the Throne (Vv. 9-10)  The Son of Man: The True King (Vv. 13–14)  The Saints: Suffering but Victorious (Vv. 21–27) Endurance of the Saints (Matthew 24:13) Application: How We Must Live       Faithfulness       Confidence       Endurance 

I Thessalonians 2 The Man of Lawlessness Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you, brothers, 2 not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed, either by a spirit or a spoken word, or a letter seeming to be from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. 3 Let no one deceive you in any way. For that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, 4 who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God. 5 Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these things? 6 And you know what is restraining him now so that he may be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work. Only he who now restrains it will do so until he is out of the way. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth and bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming. 9 The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, 10 and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. 11 Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, 12 in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. Stand Firm 13 But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. 14 To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 So then, brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter. 16 Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.   I John 2:19-27 18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us. But they went out, that it might become plain that they all are not of us. 20 But you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you all have knowledge. 21 I write to you, not because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and because no lie is of the truth. 22 Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. 23 No one who denies the Son has the Father. Whoever confesses the Son has the Father also. 24 Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you too will abide in the Son and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life. 26 I write these things to you about those who are trying to deceive you. 27 But the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.   Introduction: Understanding the Last Days The Reality of Lawlessness and Deception (2 Thessalonians 2:1–5)   The Man of Lawlessness: Future and Pattern (2 Thessalonians 2:6–10) The Spirit of Antichrist Is Already Here (1 John 2:18–23)   False Christs vs. the True Christ  Truth as Protection (1 John 2:24–27)  Christ Reigns Over All Deception  Application: How We Must Live           Discern Doctrine Carefully           Abide in Christ           Do Not Be Deceived  Conclusion: Victory in Christ 

Luke 24:1-12 24 But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. 5 And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” 8 And they remembered his words, 9 and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 10 Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles, 11 but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.   Introduction: The Question That Defines Everything                    Luke 24:5–6: “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.” The Reality of the Resurrection (Vv. 1-3)              The Empty Tomb              The Eyewitness Testimony              The Transformed Lives  The Meaning of the Resurrection           It Proves Jesus Is the Son of God (Romans 1:4)           It Confirms the Cross Was Sufficient (Romans 4:25)           It Defeats Death Forever (1 Corinthians 15:54)           It Secures Our Future Resurrection (John 11:25)  The Response to the Resurrection          Some doubted (v.11)          Some investigated (v.12)          Some believed and transformed (Acts 4:33)  What the Resurrection Means for You Today         Forgiveness of Sins         New Life         Living Hope  Our Response         Romans 10:9 "“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”  

John 19:28-30 28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. Introduction — The Seven Sayings from the Cross The Work Accomplished          "It is finished."           John 4:34 “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.” The Debt Paid           "tetelestai"           Romans 6:23 “The wages of sin is death.” The Enemy Defeated          Hebrews 2:14 “Through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil.”          Christus Victor Application        1. Rest in the Finished Work         2. No Addition to the Gospel         3. Christ Alone

John 19:28-29 28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth.    Introduction — The Seven Sayings from the Cross The Reality of His Humanity The Fulfillment of Prophecy The Cost of Obedience Application Come to Christ

Matthew 27:35-46 35 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. 36 Then they sat down and kept watch over him there. 37 And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.” 38 Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. 39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” 41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, 42 “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way. 45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”   Introduction — The Seven Sayings from the Cross The Cry of Divine Abandonment The Reality of Divine Judgment The Fulfillment of the Divine Word (Psalm 22)  Application 

John 19:25–27 25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.   Introduction — The Seven Sayings from the Cross The Faithful Mother   The Beloved Disciple  The Covenant Community The Church as Family   At the Cross

Luke 23:32-43 32 Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. 33 And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. 34 And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments. 35 And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!” 36 The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine 37 and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” 38 There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.” 39 One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Introduction:           Series on The Seven Sayings from the Cross           Prayer of Forgiveness to Promise of Salvation The Repentant Thief The Kingly Promise The Immediate Hope  Application         Saving Faith         Urgency for Evangelism 

Luke 23:26-34 The Crucifixion 26 And as they led him away, they seized one Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, and laid on him the cross, to carry it behind Jesus. 27 And there followed him a great multitude of the people and of women who were mourning and lamenting for him. 28 But turning to them Jesus said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming when they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ 30 Then they will begin to say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us,’ and to the hills, ‘Cover us.’ 31 For if they do these things when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?”   32 Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. 33 And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. 34 And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Signs of the End of the Age 3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?” 4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray.5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake.10 And then many will fall away[a] and betray one another and hate one another.11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.   Introduction: A Series on The Seven Sayings from the Cross  Text Background  The Depth of Human Sin The Intercessory Heart of Christ The Theology of Forgiveness The Personal Application The Ongoing Intercession of Christ Conclusion 

Matthew 24:1-14 24 Jesus left the temple and was going away, when his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple.2 But he answered them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly, I say to you, there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”Signs of the End of the Age3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”4 And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray.5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains.9 “Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you will be hated by all nations for my name's sake.10 And then many will fall away[a] and betray one another and hate one another.11 And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.14 And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Introduction: Why This Passage Matters TodayHistorical Background (Matthew 24:1–3)The First and Greatest Warning: Do Not Be Deceived (Matthew 24:4–5)Wars and Rumors of Wars: Do Not Be Alarmed (Matthew 24:6–7)Famines and Earthquakes: The Meaning of Birth Pains (Matthew 24:7–8)Pressure on Believers (Matthew 24:9–10)Gospel Advance in the Midst of Chaos (Matthew 24:14)  Endurance, Not Panic (Matthew 24:13) Application: How Jesus Calls Us to Live  Conclusion

Acts 2:16–21 | Hebrews 1:1–2 | 1 John 2:18  16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,    and your young men shall see visions,    and your old men shall dream dreams;18 even on my male servants and female servants    in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above    and signs on the earth below,    blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;20 the sun shall be turned to darkness    and the moon to blood,    before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’1 Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. 18 Children, it is the last hour, and as you have heard that antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour.   Introduction: We Are Living in the Last Days                A Series: The Last DaysThe Last Days Began with Christ (Acts 2:16–21)The Last Days Are Defined by God’s Final Revelation (Hebrews 1:1–2)The Last Days Are Spiritually Intense (1 John 2:18) Living Between the “Already” and the “Not Yet”Be ready (Matthew 24:44): Holiness and UrgencyStay Anchored in Chris (John 15:4)     

Ezekiel 36:22-2822 “Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came. 23 And I will vindicate the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them. And the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Lord God, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes. 24 I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land. 25 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules.28 You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. Introduction: When Revival Stops at EmotionThe Context: Restoration After Failure — Then and NowRevival Begins with God’s Sovereign Action (v. 24)“I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land.” Revival Requires Inner Cleansing, Not External Reform (v. 25)“I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness.” Revival Produces a New Heart (v. 26)“I will give you a new heart… and remove the heart of stone.” Revival Is Sustained by the Indwelling Spirit (v. 27)“I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statutes.” Revival & Obedience 

Nehemiah 8:1–128 And all the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate. And they told Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses that the Lord had commanded Israel. 2 So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. 3 And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. 4 And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden platform that they had made for the purpose. And beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand, and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. 5 And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. 6 And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. 7 Also Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, helped the people to understand the Law, while the people remained in their places. 8 They read from the book, from the Law of God, clearly, and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.This Day Is Holy 9 And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. 10 Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 11 So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” 12 And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them. Introduction: Revival & the WordHistorical Context: A Rebuilt Wall and a Rebuilt People The Centrality of the Word (Nehemiah 8:1–3)The Proclamation of the Word (Nehemiah 8:4–6) The Explanation of the Word (Nehemiah 8:7–8)The Word Produces Conviction Before Joy (Nehemiah 8:9)Joy Flows from Grace and Understanding (Nehemiah 8:10–12)Conclusion: A Call to Word-Centered Renewal

2 Timothy 1:6-146 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.8 So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.9 He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time,10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.11 And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher.12 That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.13 What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus.14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. Introduction: Revival Must End in FireThe Context: Faithful but FadingThe Fire Is Already ThereWhy the Fire Cools: Fear Replaces FaithFire Is Rekindled Through ObedienceFire Is Sustained by the Holy SpiritWhat This Fire Is—and Is NotFire Produces Faithful WitnessConclusion: “Lord, Fan the Flame Again”

Psalm 51:1-17Have mercy on me, O God,    according to your steadfast love;according to your abundant mercy    blot out my transgressions.2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,    and cleanse me from my sin!3 For I know my transgressions,    and my sin is ever before me.4 Against you, you only, have I sinned    and done what is evil in your sight,so that you may be justified in your words    and blameless in your judgment.5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity,    and in sin did my mother conceive me.6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,    and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;    wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.8 Let me hear joy and gladness;    let the bones that you have broken rejoice.9 Hide your face from my sins,    and blot out all my iniquities.10 Create in me a clean heart, O God,    and renew a right spirit within me.11 Cast me not away from your presence,    and take not your Holy Spirit from me.12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,    and uphold me with a willing spirit.13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,    and sinners will return to you.14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God,    O God of my salvation,    and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness.15 O Lord, open my lips,    and my mouth will declare your praise.16 For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;    you will not be pleased with a burnt offering.17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;     a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. Introduction: Revival & Repentance  The Context of Psalm 51: Sin Exposed by Grace (II Samuel 11, 12) Repentance Begins with Appealing to God’s Mercy (Psalm 51:1–2)Repentance Tells the Truth About Sin (Psalm 51:3–6)Repentance Seeks Inner Transformation, Not External Repair (Psalm 51:7–12)Repentance Produces Restored Joy and Witness (Psalm 51:12–15)Repentance Brings The Sacrifice God Desires (Psalm 51:16–17)Conclusion: A Call to Repentance 

Psalm 85 Lord, you were favorable to your land;    you restored the fortunes of Jacob.2 You forgave the iniquity of your people;    you covered all their sin. Selah3 You withdrew all your wrath;    you turned from your hot anger.4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation,    and put away your indignation toward us!5 Will you be angry with us forever?    Will you prolong your anger to all generations?6 Will you not revive us again,    that your people may rejoice in you?7 Show us your steadfast love, O Lord,    and grant us your salvation.8 Let me hear what God the Lord will speak,    for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints;    but let them not turn back to folly.9 Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him,    that glory may dwell in our land.10 Steadfast love and faithfulness meet;    righteousness and peace kiss each other.11 Faithfulness springs up from the ground,    and righteousness looks down from the sky.12 Yes, the Lord will give what is good,    and our land will yield its increase.13 Righteousness will go before him    and make his footsteps a way. Introduction: From Prayer to Posture (vv.8-13) Revival Now Requires a Listening People (v8) Revival Now Means God Draws Near (v. 9)Revival Now Is Centered on Christ (vv. 10–11)Revival Now Bears Lasting Fruit (vv. 12–13)Conclusion: Revival Now! 

Joshua 23:14 “And now I am about to go the way of all the earth, and you know in your hearts and souls, all of you, that not one word has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one of them has failed.” (ESV)1 John 5:3-4 "For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith."  Philippians 3:13-14 "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."  Introduction: Standing at the End of the YearVictory Remembered: God Has Been Faithful to His Word (Joshua 23:14b) Victory Refined: What God Has Taught Us This Year (I John 5:3-4) Victory Reoriented: Forgetting What Lies Behind (Philippians 3:13)Victory Renewed: Pressing Forward (Philippians 3:14) Conclusion: Victorious Still

Matthews 1:18-2518 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. Luke 2:1-202 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. INTRODUCTION — THE GREATEST GIFTTHE MIRACLE OF THE INCARNATION (Matt 1:18; John 1:14) THE HUMILITY OF HIS BIRTH (Luke 2:6–7) THE PURPOSE OF HIS COMING (Matthew 1:21) THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF HIS BIRTH (Luke 2:8–11) THE MEANING OF IMMANUEL (Matthew 1:23) THE INVITATION TO WORSHIP (Luke 2:15–20) CONCLUSION — BEHOLD HIS GIFT

Mark 4:35–41; Mark 5:1–2035 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” 5 They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes. 2 When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet him. 3 This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. 4 For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. 5 Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. 6 When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of him. 7 He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” 8 For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!” 9 Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” 10 And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. 11 A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” 13 He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. 14 Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. 15 When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 16 Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. 17 Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region. 18 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. 19 Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed. INTRODUCTION: A "JESUS" Series JESUS HAS POWER OVER NATURE (Mark 4:35–41)JESUS HAS POWER OVER DARKNESS (Mark 5:1–20) JESUS HAS THE POWER TO REDEEM AND SEND (Mark 5:18–20) Conclusion

Text: John 1:1–181 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. 4 In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. 6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. 8 He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. 9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”) 16 For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God; God the only Son, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. INTRODUCTION: A "JESUS" Series Knowing Christ CHRIST BEFORE CHRISTMAS (vv. 1-3)             John 1:1 “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”           Jesus is the CREATOR           Colossians 1:15-17 15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. CHRIST WITH US (vv.14-17)                 John 1:14  14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.  CHRIST REVEALS GOD (v. 18)              John 1:18“No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, He has made Him known.”Application: What does it mean to me?           Christ is the Creator — Worship Him            Christ is the Savior — Receive Him             Christ is God — Trust HimConclusion

Colossians 3:15–17 5 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.17 And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.Psalm 50:23 The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me. Hebrews 12:28–29 28 Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe,29 for our God is a consuming fire.Revelation 7:9–12   9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands,10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”11 And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God,12 saying, “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.”Colossians 1:11-12    11 Being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;12 give thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.INTRODUCTION: Thanksgiving as a Lifestyle A THANKFUL HEART BRINGS REVIVAL INTO OUR RELATIONSHIPS          Colossians 3:15–17“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… with thankfulness…do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks…”A THANKFUL HEART RESTORES TRUE WORSHIP         Psalm 50:23  “The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies Me…”A THANKFUL HEART PRODUCES OBEDIENT FAITH               Hebrews 12:28–29“Let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship…”A THANKFUL HEART IGNITES EVANGELISM AND MISSION              Revelation 7:9–12 “A great multitude… crying out… ‘Thanksgiving be to our God forever!’” A THANKFUL HEART ENDURES UNTIL THE END              Colossians 1:11-12 11 being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. Conclusion: ThanksLiving 

Psalm 100:4–5 (ESV)4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! 5 For the Lord is good;his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (ESV)16 Rejoice always,17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you INTRODUCTION — REVIVAL BEGINS WHERE GRATITUDE AWAKENSTHANKSGIVING IS THE ENTRANCE INTO GOD’S PRESENCE (Psalm 100:4–5)THANKSGIVING REVIVES THE SOUL BY REMEMBERING GOD’S FAITHFULNESS (Psalm 103:1–5)THANKSGIVING IS THE MARK OF A HEART TRULY TRANSFORMED BY CHRIST (Luke 17:11–19)THANKSGIVING IS GOD’S PATH TO SUPERNATURAL PEACE (Philippians 4:6–7)THANKSGIVING IS GOD’S WILL IN EVERY SEASON (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)Conclusion

Romans 1:16-17 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”Acts 26:17-18 ...I am sending you to them18 to open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. INTRODUCTION — What the Gospel does THE GOSPEL HAS THE POWER TO SAVE (Romans 1:16)THE GOSPEL HAS THE POWER TO TRANSFORM LIVES (2 Corinthians 5:17)THE GOSPEL HAS THE POWER TO BREAK BONDAGE (Acts 26:18)THE GOSPEL HAS THE POWER TO RESTORE FAMILIES, CHURCHES, AND NATIONSTHE GOSPEL HAS THE POWER TO REVEAL THE GLORY OF GOD 

Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”I Corinthians 15:1-4Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures.  2 Corinthians 4:5 – “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord.” INTRODUCTION — THE NEED FOR THE TRUE GOSPELTHE TRUE GOSPEL DEFINED (I Corinthians 15:1-4) THE TRUE GOSPEL EXALTS CHRIST (2 Corinthians 4:5) THE TRUE GOSPEL CONFRONTS SIN (Acts 3:19) THE TRUE GOSPEL PRODUCES NEW LIFE AND HOLINESS (Titus 2:11-12) THE TRUE GOSPEL REVEALS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD (Romans 1:7)  

Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes.”Galatians 1:6–9 – “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel…”2 Corinthians 4:5 – “For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord.” Seeking Revival Series Revival through the Gospel What kind of Gospel? The Danger of a Different Gospel (Galatians 1:6–9)     “I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel, which is really no gospel at all.”The False Gospels of Our Age     Prosperity Gospel — Blessing Without Repentance    Therapeutic Gospel — Comfort Without Conversion    Moral Gospel — Reform Without Regeneration   Universal Gospel — Salvation Without FaithThe One True Gospel — Christ Crucified and Risen    “We do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord.” (2 Corinthians 4:5)    The Gospel Begins with God’s Holiness     The Gospel Reveals God’s Justice and Love    The Gospel Calls for Repentance and Faith     The Gospel Declares Jesus as LordThe Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16)

Romans 1:16-3216 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world,[g] in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools,23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.24 Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves,25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen.26 For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature;27 and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.28 And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done.29 They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness, evil, covetousness, malice. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips,30 slanderers, haters of God, insolent, haughty, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents,31 foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless.32 Though they know God's righteous decree that those who practice such things deserve to die, they not only do them but give approval to those who practice them. Seeking Revival Series Revival through the Gospel What kind of God?  THE MODERN MISREPRESENTATION  THE GOD THE APOSTLES PREACHED  THE GOD WE PREACH THE TRUE GOSPEL – REPENT AND BELIEVE  THE GOSPEL FOR ALL

Acts 3:19-2019 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.2 Chronicles 7:1414 If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Seeking Revival through Repentance Understanding Repentance Three Stages       Change of Mind (Romans 12:2)        Words of Confession (I John 1:9)        Deeds of Repentance (Luke 3:8) Three Attitudes      Be Serious      Be Specific     Be Sensible  

Acts 3:19-2019 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, 20 that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus.2 Chronicles 7:1414 If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Introduction: A Hunger for Revival Revival Requires Repentance (2 Chronicles 7:14) What is Repentance? (2 Corinthians 7:10)         Worldly Sorrows vs. Godly Sorrows        Change of Direction and Mind Revival Always Produces RepentanceThe Fruits of Repentance  The Gospel Call — Repent and Believe 

2 Corinthians 2:15–16“For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task?”Persecution & Revival Revival in History (Acts 6-8) Great Awakenings The Purpose of Revival 1. Salvation for the Lost (Romans 1:16) 2. Harvest in the Last Days (Revelation 14) 3. Fulfillment of God's Word: Prophecy, Plan, and Promise (Mathew 28, Luke 24, Revelation 21)  Our Response: Pray, Proclaim, Prepare 

Acts 2:38-4738 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Understanding the times (Acts 2:40) Proclaiming the Gospel (Acts 2:22–36, Romans 1:16-17) Seeking the Life (Acts 2:41-47)  

Ephesians 6:11-13Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Colossians 2:6 “Continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”2 Timothy 3:14 “Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of because you know those from whom you learned it…” From Spiritual Summer to Continuation GROW (Col 2:6, Hebrews 6:1) GUARD (2 Tim 3:14, Hebrews 12:1) GO (Matthew 6:33, 28:1-20) 

Luke 12:13-2113 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”

Matthew 6:25-3425 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Revelation 21 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,”for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”The New Jerusalem, the Bride of the Lamb9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. 13 There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. 14 The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.15 The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. 16 The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. 17 The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. 18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24 The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. 25 On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. 26 The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. 27 Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

Deuteronomy 32:28-47 28 They are a nation without sense,    there is no discernment in them.29 If only they were wise and would understand this    and discern what their end will be!30 How could one man chase a thousand,    or two put ten thousand to flight,unless their Rock had sold them,    unless the Lord had given them up?31 For their rock is not like our Rock,    as even our enemies concede.32 Their vine comes from the vine of Sodom    and from the fields of Gomorrah.Their grapes are filled with poison,    and their clusters with bitterness.33 Their wine is the venom of serpents,    the deadly poison of cobras.34 “Have I not kept this in reserve    and sealed it in my vaults?35 It is mine to avenge; I will repay.    In due time their foot will slip;their day of disaster is near    and their doom rushes upon them.”36 The Lord will vindicate his people    and relent concerning his servantswhen he sees their strength is gone    and no one is left, slave or free.[d]37 He will say: “Now where are their gods,    the rock they took refuge in,38 the gods who ate the fat of their sacrifices    and drank the wine of their drink offerings?Let them rise up to help you!    Let them give you shelter!39 “See now that I myself am he!    There is no god besides me.I put to death and I bring to life,    I have wounded and I will heal,    and no one can deliver out of my hand.40 I lift my hand to heaven and solemnly swear:    As surely as I live forever,41 when I sharpen my flashing sword    and my hand grasps it in judgment,I will take vengeance on my adversaries    and repay those who hate me.42 I will make my arrows drunk with blood,    while my sword devours flesh:the blood of the slain and the captives,    the heads of the enemy leaders.”43 Rejoice, you nations, with his people,    for he will avenge the blood of his servants;he will take vengeance on his enemies    and make atonement for his land and people.44 Moses came with Joshua[g] son of Nun and spoke all the words of this song in the hearing of the people. 45 When Moses finished reciting all these words to all Israel, 46 he said to them, “Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. 47 They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to possess.”

Deuteronomy 32:1-27Listen, you heavens, and I will speak;    hear, you earth, the words of my mouth.2 Let my teaching fall like rain    and my words descend like dew,like showers on new grass,    like abundant rain on tender plants.3 I will proclaim the name of the Lord.    Oh, praise the greatness of our God!4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect,    and all his ways are just.A faithful God who does no wrong,    upright and just is he.5 They are corrupt and not his children;    to their shame they are a warped and crooked generation.6 Is this the way you repay the Lord,    you foolish and unwise people?Is he not your Father, your Creator,[a]    who made you and formed you?7 Remember the days of old;    consider the generations long past.Ask your father and he will tell you,    your elders, and they will explain to you.8 When the Most High gave the nations their inheritance,    when he divided all mankind,he set up boundaries for the peoples    according to the number of the sons of Israel.[b]9 For the Lord’s portion is his people,    Jacob his allotted inheritance.10 In a desert land he found him,    in a barren and howling waste.He shielded him and cared for him;    he guarded him as the apple of his eye,11 like an eagle that stirs up its nest    and hovers over its young,that spreads its wings to catch them    and carries them aloft.12 The Lord alone led him;    no foreign god was with him.13 He made him ride on the heights of the land    and fed him with the fruit of the fields.He nourished him with honey from the rock,    and with oil from the flinty crag,14 with curds and milk from herd and flock    and with fattened lambs and goats,with choice rams of Bashan    and the finest kernels of wheat.You drank the foaming blood of the grape.15 Jeshurun[c] grew fat and kicked;    filled with food, they became heavy and sleek.They abandoned the God who made them    and rejected the Rock their Savior.16 They made him jealous with their foreign gods    and angered him with their detestable idols.17 They sacrificed to false gods, which are not God—    gods they had not known,    gods that recently appeared,    gods your ancestors did not fear.18 You deserted the Rock, who fathered you;    you forgot the God who gave you birth.19 The Lord saw this and rejected them    because he was angered by his sons and daughters.20 “I will hide my face from them,” he said,    “and see what their end will be;for they are a perverse generation,    children who are unfaithful.21 They made me jealous by what is no god    and angered me with their worthless idols.I will make them envious by those who are not a people;    I will make them angry by a nation that has no understanding.22 For a fire will be kindled by my wrath,    one that burns down to the realm of the dead below.It will devour the earth and its harvests    and set afire the foundations of the mountains.23 “I will heap calamities on them    and spend my arrows against them.24 I will send wasting famine against them,    consuming pestilence and deadly plague;I will send against them the fangs of wild beasts,    the venom of vipers that glide in the dust.25 In the street the sword will make them childless;    in their homes terror will reign.The young men and young women will perish,    the infants and those with gray hair.26 I said I would scatter them    and erase their name from human memory,27 but I dreaded the taunt of the enemy,    lest the adversary misunderstandand say, ‘Our hand has triumphed;    the Lord has not done all this.’”

Matthew 13: 3-93 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9 Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

Luke 14:15-2415 When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.”16 Jesus replied: “A certain man was preparing a great banquet and invited many guests. 17 At the time of the banquet he sent his servant to tell those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’18 “But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said, ‘I have just bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please excuse me.’19 “Another said, ‘I have just bought five yoke of oxen, and I’m on my way to try them out. Please excuse me.’20 “Still another said, ‘I just got married, so I can’t come.’21 “The servant came back and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and ordered his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame.’22 “‘Sir,’ the servant said, ‘what you ordered has been done, but there is still room.’23 “Then the master told his servant, ‘Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full. 24 I tell you, not one of those who were invited will get a taste of my banquet.’”

Deuteronomy 30:1919 This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.

Psalm 103:1:Bless the Lord, O my soul,    and all that is within me,    bless his holy name!

1 John 5:13-21:13 I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.16 If you see any brother or sister commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray and God will give them life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death. There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying that you should pray about that. 17 All wrongdoing is sin, and there is sin that does not lead to death.18 We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them. 19 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. 20 We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.21 Dear children, keep yourselves from idols. 2John 7,1 The elder,To the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth— 2 because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:3 Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.4 It has given me great joy to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. 5 And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 6 And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.7 I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8 Watch out that you do not lose what we[a] have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 9 Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. 11 Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.13 The children of your sister, who is chosen by God, send their greetings 1 John 2:14:I write to you, dear children,    because you know the Father.I write to you, fathers,    because you know him who is from the beginning.I write to you, young men,    because you are strong,    and the word of God lives in you,    and you have overcome the evil one.1John 2:28:And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming. I. IntroductionII. What is faith?III. Why Does Faith Matter?IV. When you experience true repentance...V. Our Mission/Final Reflection

Isaiah 1: 2-202 Hear me, you heavens! Listen, earth!    For the Lord has spoken:“I reared children and brought them up,    but they have rebelled against me.3 The ox knows its master,    the donkey its owner’s manger,but Israel does not know,    my people do not understand.”4 Woe to the sinful nation,    a people whose guilt is great,a brood of evildoers,    children given to corruption!They have forsaken the Lord;    they have spurned the Holy One of Israel    and turned their backs on him.5 Why should you be beaten anymore?    Why do you persist in rebellion?Your whole head is injured,    your whole heart afflicted.6 From the sole of your foot to the top of your head    there is no soundness—only wounds and welts    and open sores,not cleansed or bandaged    or soothed with olive oil.7 Your country is desolate,    your cities burned with fire;your fields are being stripped by foreigners    right before you,    laid waste as when overthrown by strangers.8 Daughter Zion is left    like a shelter in a vineyard,like a hut in a cucumber field,    like a city under siege.9 Unless the Lord Almighty    had left us some survivors,we would have become like Sodom,    we would have been like Gomorrah.10 Hear the word of the Lord,    you rulers of Sodom;listen to the instruction of our God,    you people of Gomorrah!11 “The multitude of your sacrifices—    what are they to me?” says the Lord.“I have more than enough of burnt offerings,    of rams and the fat of fattened animals;I have no pleasure    in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats.12 When you come to appear before me,    who has asked this of you,    this trampling of my courts?13 Stop bringing meaningless offerings!    Your incense is detestable to me.New Moons, Sabbaths and convocations—    I cannot bear your worthless assemblies.14 Your New Moon feasts and your appointed festivals    I hate with all my being.They have become a burden to me;    I am weary of bearing them.15 When you spread out your hands in prayer,    I hide my eyes from you;even when you offer many prayers,    I am not listening.Your hands are full of blood!16 Wash and make yourselves clean.    Take your evil deeds out of my sight;    stop doing wrong.17 Learn to do right; seek justice.    Defend the oppressed.[a]Take up the cause of the fatherless;    plead the case of the widow.18 “Come now, let us settle the matter,”    says the Lord.“Though your sins are like scarlet,    they shall be as white as snow;though they are red as crimson,    they shall be like wool.19 If you are willing and obedient,    you will eat the good things of the land;20 but if you resist and rebel,    you will be devoured by the sword.”For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.IntroductionThe Judgement of GodHolinessWrathThe Mercy of GodPatienceRedemptionThe Reasoning of GodHis DesireHis WillHis GloryOur ResponseFearGratitudeObedience

We are joined again by guest speaker Wenneyam Nikiema.

1 Kings 21Naboth’s Vineyard21 Some time later there was an incident involving a vineyard belonging to Naboth the Jezreelite. The vineyard was in Jezreel, close to the palace of Ahab king of Samaria. 2 Ahab said to Naboth, “Let me have your vineyard to use for a vegetable garden, since it is close to my palace. In exchange I will give you a better vineyard or, if you prefer, I will pay you whatever it is worth.”3 But Naboth replied, “The Lord forbid that I should give you the inheritance of my ancestors.”4 So Ahab went home, sullen and angry because Naboth the Jezreelite had said, “I will not give you the inheritance of my ancestors.” He lay on his bed sulking and refused to eat.5 His wife Jezebel came in and asked him, “Why are you so sullen? Why won’t you eat?”6 He answered her, “Because I said to Naboth the Jezreelite, ‘Sell me your vineyard; or if you prefer, I will give you another vineyard in its place.’ But he said, ‘I will not give you my vineyard.’”7 Jezebel his wife said, “Is this how you act as king over Israel? Get up and eat! Cheer up. I’ll get you the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite.”8 So she wrote letters in Ahab’s name, placed his seal on them, and sent them to the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city with him. 9 In those letters she wrote:“Proclaim a day of fasting and seat Naboth in a prominent place among the people. 10 But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them bring charges that he has cursed both God and the king. Then take him out and stone him to death.”11 So the elders and nobles who lived in Naboth’s city did as Jezebel directed in the letters she had written to them. 12 They proclaimed a fast and seated Naboth in a prominent place among the people. 13 Then two scoundrels came and sat opposite him and brought charges against Naboth before the people, saying, “Naboth has cursed both God and the king.” So they took him outside the city and stoned him to death. 14 Then they sent word to Jezebel: “Naboth has been stoned to death.”15 As soon as Jezebel heard that Naboth had been stoned to death, she said to Ahab, “Get up and take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite that he refused to sell you. He is no longer alive, but dead.” 16 When Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, he got up and went down to take possession of Naboth’s vineyard.

Psalm 1:1–3Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, 2 but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. 3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.Galatians 6:9 – 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.Romans 12:1–2 – Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.Hebrews 10:24–25 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.5. Sermon Title: Spiritual Summer 2025: Stepping Up Spiritual Summer 2025  Step Up in DevotionRomans 12:1 "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice..." Step Up in ServiceGalatians 6:9 “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Step Up in Spiritual Growth Psalm 1:3 “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season…” Step Up in FellowshipHebrews 10:24–25“Let us consider how we may spur one another on… not giving up meeting together…” This is Your Spiritual Summer!  

Ephesians 2:19-2219 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. 21 In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. 22 And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.            May: Focus on the Family Month             Building the Church Family Together            The Church as a Spiritual Family           Foundations of a Godly Church Family            Marks of a Godly Church Family           Threats to a Godly Church Family            How to Build a Godly Church Family 

Nehemiah 4:14 “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”Ephesians 6:11–18 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place,15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.Deuteronomy 6:6–86 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads.9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.Psalm 127:1“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain.”            May: Focus on the Family Month             Fighting for the Family           1. THE FAMILY IS UNDER SPIRITUAL ATTACK                      Psalm 11:3 – “If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?”          2. GOD HAS GIVEN US SPIRITUAL WEAPONS                       Ephesians 6:10–18 “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”          3. REBUILD THE ALTAR IN YOUR HOME                       Deuteronomy 6:6–7, 9 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts.7 Impress them on your children. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.          4. FIGHT TOGETHER, NOT AGAINST EACH OTHER                Nehemiah 4:14 “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes."  Our Response