True riches 1 Timothy 6:17-21

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "True riches 1 Timothy 6:17-21"

Transcription

1 True riches 1 Timothy 6:17-21 Who would like to be rich? Have all the money you could ever dream of? Finally be like the people on TV, driving in their fast cars, and wearing their expensive clothes, just flaunting it for the whole world to see? I would, hahaha. Just get on my private jet and go. There is nothing wrong with having these things. If God has blessed you, AMEN. Enjoy it, because it doesn t last forever. So knowing that it doesn t last what does this tell me as a believer? For the believer, this life isn t it. In fact, we are just passing through, like we would stay at a hotel on vacation. For example, if you re staying in a hotel room on vacation, you re not going to look at the walls and go, Hmm, wonder what I would paint this wall with, or I wonder what furniture would go well in here. Why? Because it s not your home. Decorating a house takes investment, and there is no point in investing in a place that isn t your home. For the believer, this is our situation: We are in this world, but I am not investing my life in the things of the world, because this isn t my home. Heaven is, so I want to store up riches there, because they have lasting value compared to what the world has to offer. Here in 1 Timothy 6:17-21, we will be looking at how we can gain true riches while passing through here on earth. Rich outlook on self My trust = my attitude (V. 17) Paul begins this portion of scripture by addressing the attitudes of the rich at this time, but also to speak to anyone who puts their trust in their bank account rather than God. Haughty literally meaning having an attitude of arrogance, superiority, pride, or disdain toward others. Paul is instructing them not to use their riches as a way of seeing themselves as better than others. We see this all the time on TV, and unfortunately we see it in real life as well. o How do people do this? Easy. It s an attitude of I make more money than you, so that makes me better. Many times we may not say it, but we sometimes think it. Especially if you run into an old enemy from high school, and think, I m doing better than you! Our flesh loves to make this point. o Why do people do this? In these moments, we are placing our value in how much money we have. In fact, did you know that people in this world have what is called net worth? Net worth simply means adding up the cost of everything

2 you own of any significance, including cash investments, real estate, cars or anything else. For example, according to a website called celebritynetworth.com: o Actors Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie together have a net worth of $425 million. o The net worth for champion boxer Floyd Mayweather is $400 million. o The net worth of Justin Beiber (yes, he is still here) is $200 million. Knowing you have this in the bank can make it hard not to see others as less than you. But Paul here says don t think this way, nor act this way toward anyone in this present age. This doesn t just mean with people in the church, but with all people. In Galatians 5:22-23, he says that the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These things are evidence that we walk in the Spirit. Every believer, whether rich or poor, is called to walk in the same Spirit. There is no difference between the two; each has value. The root of this kind of mindset and behavior is someone putting their trust in uncertain riches. Why does Paul call the riches of this world uncertain? o One biblical commentator said that money has a way of sprouting wings and flying away. o The reason it is uncertain is because you can t keep it for long. You can chase it your whole life, and what you gain will just go to someone else when you die, or be taken from you. Jesus said in Matthew 19:24 (paraphrase) it is hard for the rich to enter Heaven! Why would Jesus say that? Doesn t he know that it s bad to say things that upset the big tithers in the congregation? o Jesus said this because it is true. If you re rich, you don t get to heaven faster than if you re not. The point He was making is that in this life, we desperately need Jesus for everything, but when someone is rich and trusts in those riches, he or she develops a false sense of independence from the Lord. o Like the lukewarm church of the Laodiceans in Revelation 3:17 who were so rich that they thought they didn t need God for anything. Why is this a bad thing? Because trusting in uncertain riches instead of God robs us from being able to trust in God. Without knowing that I desperately need Jesus, and continually trusting Him for everything, I begin to think I can do a better job at life than what He can give me. This is idolatry. This is sin.

3 In fact, many times, as with the Laodicean church, riches can deceive us into thinking that they are evidence that God is pleased with us; but it isn t, and many times blind us to the truth that we are spiritually wretched, blind and naked. Now, is there anything wrong with wanting a better job because it pays more? No. Is there something wrong with wanting to provide for your family? No. There is nothing wrong with being rich, but where we go wrong as Christians is when we make it our pursuit in life, or limit God based on how much we have in the bank. Sometimes it may not be greed, but just a weariness from feeling like you have to struggle all the time. Jeremiah 17:7 says, Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is in the Lord. o Sometimes we might think, I wish I didn t have to struggle all the time, and that is a valid desire: Living paycheck to paycheck isn t fun. But in these situations, we are blessed because they cause us to pursue the Lord more desperately, and when He comes though, we are blessed knowing that He sees our struggle, and He provides. Someone who puts all of his trust in riches will never know this. Even if you are rich, you can do the same, by having an attitude of gratefulness and being a steward of the riches God has given you. o How do we trust God instead of the riches of this world? In order to do this, we first have to understand two key purposes: God s timing and God s will. God s timing He is never late, but supports His kids. God s will No matter the outcome, remembering that God is still in control and knows what you need. Psalms 50:10 says that God owns every beast of the field, and the cattle on a thousand hills. You might be thinking, How does knowing that God owns cows help me trust Him? Haha. Back in the day, cattle were currency, and God owned it all even if man had it in his possession. This speaks to the fact that God isn t broke; He isn t limited in resources, but is forever rich, and able to provide for His kids. Matthew 6:30-34 says, Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

4 31 Therefore do not worry, saying, What shall we eat? or What shall we drink? or What shall we wear? 32 For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. o The point of this passage is showing us that God knows our needs and will provide, but we must continue seeking Him. Why? Because it is proof that we trust Him. The problem is that the enemy likes to get into our heads and tell us that God doesn t see our struggles, and that even though you pray, He does nothing. This is not true! John 14:13 says, And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. He hears and He answers. It goes back to His timing and His will. He knows. He isn t abandoning you. But keep faith, and keep seeking! o Tell the enemy that I AM HIS CHILD; HE IS MY FATHER; HE WONT ABANDON ME! and when God comes through, glorify and praise Him! Don t allow Satan to corner you with doubt, and cause you to think God doesn t care about what you re going through. The things God has given to you are for you to enjoy here on earth, but apart from His provision and purpose, these things have little value, nor can the pursuit of these things make us any happier. In fact, by having these riches, we are responsible for using them for God s glory. Rich works (V ) Many of the rich at that time were wealthy enough that they didn t have to work, so instead of sitting in a big building, they could be busy doing good works. These good works were not for the benefit of their image, but for the benefit of others. o Luke 12:21 says that those who store up riches for self are not rich towards God. To be rich according to the world won t last; riches toward God last forever. o So how can we become rich toward God? Through good works (dorcas). Ready to give, willing to share

5 Why is this important for the rich and for us today? Keeps us from being materialistically driven and trusting in riches o When I am confident that my riches came from God, and mine to be a steward of, I can freely give, knowing that they don t belong to me anyway. o Like a hoarder, your life becomes about how much you can gain, when God has called us to give. What is the benefit of this giving? o Matthew 6:19-20 says, Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. It has been proven that when you go to funeral, there is only one hole dug for the body, and no hole is dug for the riches that person had when they were alive. The Egyptians tried doing this, only to realize that the possessions that they buried their Pharaohs with are still there. We can t take it with us. So there is no point living this life trying to store it up. Paul is saying that the better use for riches is be a giver. Why is it important to give? Giving brings us everlasting treasure in heaven. This treasure lasts for eternity and never depreciates in value, and the best part is that when this kind of treasure is acquired, great joy is the result. o Paul quotes Jesus when he says in Acts 20:35, it is better to give than receive. o How is this possible? Because when our hearts are focused on heaven, the treasures of this world go down in value, because we know the riches in heaven will be far greater. o This doesn t always have to mean that if you don t have a lot of money that you have no way to store treasure in heaven. In fact, some of the best things that we can give are our time, maybe a meal, a skill; all these things are things that God has given us, for His glory and our opportunity to store treasure in heaven. John Wesley once said, Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to

6 all the people you can, as long as ever you can. 1 o This kind of giving produces a foundation in our lives. What kind of foundation? It s a foundation for heaven. Its not to say that giving money away will earn you heaven, but think of it this way: when we get to heaven and everyone is high-fiving and worshipping Jesus, I believe one of the things we will talk about is how God used our lives on earth. In a way, being a giver and doing good works gives you something to talk about when you get there. Jesus is the motive; heaven is the reward. Living for him here means living it up there. Great riches (V. 20) What is Paul commanding Timothy to guard? The gospel. Why? Because in the gospel rest the greatest riches of them all. In the gospel, mankind is redeemed and spared from the judgment of God, and without it we are utterly doomed. o The gospel is gained by hearing the word taught. Timothy guards the gospel truth by simply teaching the word of God, but what is Paul telling Timothy to guard it from? People who come along and twist the gospel message from truth to a lie, for the sake of higher knowledge. Ever since the fall in the garden, man has always tried to one-up God, even by trying to twist the word of God to suit their lust for higher knowledge. In one case, Gnosticism was born out of this. Gnosticism comes from the Greek word gnosis, meaning to know, or what is known. Contrary to a message of salvation through Christ alone (Acts 4:12), the Gnostic belief brings a message of self-redemption. Man is the deity, not God, and all mankind needs to do is to look to their inner spark to find the knowledge needed to reach God. This is twisting of what we see in scripture. This is false. Proverbs 1:7 says that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord. Wisdom is found in the word of God, not the inner spark of man. In conclusion: To truly be rich is to be rich toward God. It starts with a rich outlook on self, which produces rich actions, and results in great riches. The instruction Paul is giving us here is so that the life we live here on earth will be rich not necessarily a material richness, but lives that are dedicated to investing in an eternal kingdom rather than a temporal one. Maybe today you are sitting here thinking, I have not been investing in what really matters. My challenge to you tonight is to ask yourself what you have been investing in; what have you

7 spent your time doing that will have eternal benefits? Invest in those things and watch your life be one of joy in service to the King.

WELCOME TO GOD S FAMILY

WELCOME TO GOD S FAMILY WELCOME TO GOD S FAMILY To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband

More information

Main Point: God gives each of us gifts and abilities. We should use them to glorify Him.

Main Point: God gives each of us gifts and abilities. We should use them to glorify Him. The Ten Talents Matthew 18:21-35 PPT Title The Ten Talents Main Point: God gives each of us gifts and abilities. We should use them to glorify Him. Key Verse: God s gifts of grace come in many forms. Each

More information

LESSON 11 - MONEY and POSSESSIONS in GENERAL

LESSON 11 - MONEY and POSSESSIONS in GENERAL LESSON 11 - MONEY and POSSESSIONS in GENERAL What Should Be My Attitude Towards Money and Possessions Be? One of the greatest Temptations we face as Christians in America is the tremendous materialism

More information

Devotion NT273 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Garden of Gethsemane. THEME: We always need to pray! SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:39-53

Devotion NT273 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Garden of Gethsemane. THEME: We always need to pray! SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:39-53 Devotion NT273 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Garden of Gethsemane THEME: We always need to pray! SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:39-53 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids. Bible Time

More information

LESSON TITLE: Jesus Visits Mary and Martha THEME: Jesus wants us to spend time with \ Him. SCRIPTURE: Luke 10:38-42

LESSON TITLE: Jesus Visits Mary and Martha THEME: Jesus wants us to spend time with \ Him. SCRIPTURE: Luke 10:38-42 Devotion NT249 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Jesus Visits Mary and Martha THEME: Jesus wants us to spend time with \ Him. SCRIPTURE: Luke 10:38-42 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time

More information

The Gift That Keeps On Giving December 24, 2013

The Gift That Keeps On Giving December 24, 2013 Luke 2:1-20 The Gift That Keeps On Giving December 24, 2013 This is one of the most wonderful times of the year it s Christmas Eve and many are waiting with anticipation to see what gifts we get. Many

More information

PRAYING FOR OTHER PEOPLE

PRAYING FOR OTHER PEOPLE PRAYING FOR OTHER PEOPLE SESSION ONE HOW TO PRAY FOR OTHER PEOPLE When friends get together, they talk about their problems. Sometimes your friends will share with you about their own personal difficulties

More information

The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy

The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy The Fruit of the Spirit is Joy Pre-Session Warm Up (Galatians 5:22-23) Today we are going to learn more about the fruit of the Spirit called, Joy. What do you think of when you hear the word joy? A lot

More information

Memory Verses for Kids

Memory Verses for Kids Memory Verses for Kids August 2013 Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Matthew 28:19 Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them

More information

LESSON TITLE: Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life

LESSON TITLE: Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life Devotion NT271 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life THEME: We can always trust Jesus. SCRIPTURE: John 14:1-6 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time

More information

LESSON TITLE: A Story about Investing. THEME: We should share the love of Jesus! SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:11-27 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF:

LESSON TITLE: A Story about Investing. THEME: We should share the love of Jesus! SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:11-27 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Devotion NT258 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: A Story about Investing THEME: We should share the love of Jesus! SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:11-27 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!

More information

Next Step Lessons for New Believers Finding Confidence in Our Faith

Next Step Lessons for New Believers Finding Confidence in Our Faith Next Step Lessons for New Believers Finding Confidence in Our Faith {Participant s Guide} Finding Confidence in Our Faith If you ve recently placed your faith in Jesus Christ, you are about to embark on

More information

Bible Verses About Love:

Bible Verses About Love: Bible Verses About Love: The Bible is full of great verses and passages about the topic of love. God s love for us is a perfect example and starting place to study on love. There are also great verses

More information

THE LAWS OF BIBLICAL PROSPERITY (Chapter One)

THE LAWS OF BIBLICAL PROSPERITY (Chapter One) THE LAWS OF BIBLICAL PROSPERITY (Chapter One) September 2006 MAKE A WAY MINISTRIES Cornerstone Financial Counselors THE LAWS OF BIBLICAL PROSPERITY Chapter One God Wants You to Prosper The purpose of this

More information

What are you. worried about? Looking Deeper

What are you. worried about? Looking Deeper What are you worried about? Looking Deeper Looking Deeper What are you worried about? Some of us lie awake at night worrying about family members, health, finances or a thousand other things. Worry can

More information

LESSON TITLE: Taming the Tongue. THEME: God wants us to watch what we say. SCRIPTURE: James 3:1-12 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF:

LESSON TITLE: Taming the Tongue. THEME: God wants us to watch what we say. SCRIPTURE: James 3:1-12 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Devotion NT349 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Taming the Tongue THEME: God wants us to watch what we say. SCRIPTURE: James 3:1-12 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids! Bible

More information

The Lord Discusses Fasting and the Proper Attitude Toward Money

The Lord Discusses Fasting and the Proper Attitude Toward Money TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS TRANSCRIPT Matthew 6:16-24 The Lord Discusses Fasting and the Proper Attitude Toward Money Matthew 6:16-24 - Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a

More information

LESSON TITLE: The Great Commandment. THEME: Love is the fulfillment of the Law. SCRIPTURE: Mark 12:28-34 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF:

LESSON TITLE: The Great Commandment. THEME: Love is the fulfillment of the Law. SCRIPTURE: Mark 12:28-34 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Devotion NT264 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Great Commandment THEME: Love is the fulfillment of the Law. SCRIPTURE: Mark 12:28-34 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids.

More information

How to Simplify Your Life

How to Simplify Your Life Life Reference: Matthew 6:24-34 Focus Verse: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness: and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33). Stuff! Wonderful stuff everywhere!

More information

Chapter 1 How would you describe worship and its impact in your life? p. 14

Chapter 1 How would you describe worship and its impact in your life? p. 14 Worship Questions Chapter 1 How would you describe worship and its impact in your life? p. 14 Since godly worship covered all of society in the Old Testament, what applications can you make to your life

More information

Table of Contents. 1) Purpose of the Doctrine Survey. 2) Gospel Review. 3) Obedience. 4) Scripture. 5) Holy Spirit. 6) Prayer. 7) Christian Community

Table of Contents. 1) Purpose of the Doctrine Survey. 2) Gospel Review. 3) Obedience. 4) Scripture. 5) Holy Spirit. 6) Prayer. 7) Christian Community Doctrine Survey Table of Contents 1) Purpose of the Doctrine Survey 2) Gospel Review 3) Obedience 4) Scripture 5) Holy Spirit 6) Prayer 7) Christian Community 8) Evangelism 9) Eternal Perspective 10) Accountability

More information

BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Acts, Romans, two Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians,

BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Acts, Romans, two Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, BOOKS OF THE NEW TESTAMENT Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Acts, Romans, two Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, two Thessalonians. 27 books, 27 books, Take a look at the New Testament.

More information

YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST

YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST Your life in christ YOUR NEW LIFE IN CHRIST lesson 8 When you place your faith in Jesus Christ, He becomes your Savior and your Sovereign Lord and Master. You are under new ownership. You can only enjoy

More information

Devotion NT267 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Second Coming. THEME: Jesus is coming again. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 24:27-31

Devotion NT267 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Second Coming. THEME: Jesus is coming again. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 24:27-31 Devotion NT267 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Second Coming THEME: Jesus is coming again. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 24:27-31 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids. Bible Time for

More information

Bible Study 70. The Mystery of God

Bible Study 70. The Mystery of God The Mystery of God The word mystery means an unspoken secret. God had an unspoken secret that He kept to Himself for 4,000 years. It was the biggest and best secret of all time, and it s about you and

More information

Copyrighted material

Copyrighted material All Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Cover by Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, Oregon Cover illustration

More information

Biblical Stewardship Principles--Early Childhood Version

Biblical Stewardship Principles--Early Childhood Version Biblical Stewardship Principles--Early Childhood Version Christian Stewardship is the free and joyous activity of the children of God and God's family, the church, in taking care of all the things God

More information

God: As He Wants You to Know Him Study Guide

God: As He Wants You to Know Him Study Guide God: As He Wants You to Know Him Study Guide Week 1 (Sections 1-2, Chapters 1-3) Day 1 Read Chapter 1 and respond to the following questions: Why and how does the pursuit of knowing God lead to: o A right

More information

Discover The God Who Believes In You

Discover The God Who Believes In You Discover The God Who Believes In You I AM LOVED The most basic fact of the Bible is that there is a God. He made everything that is, including you, and loves you with an everlasting love. God has loved

More information

THEME: God desires for us to demonstrate His love!

THEME: God desires for us to demonstrate His love! Devotion NT320 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Gift of Love THEME: God desires for us to demonstrate His love! SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time

More information

Cover 2 Cover By Sharon Kay Chatwell

Cover 2 Cover By Sharon Kay Chatwell Cover 2 Cover By Sharon Kay Chatwell OVERVIEW: SKIT written for teens and college age students. 6 Actors minimum 3 Main Characters with multiple lines. Additional Characters with a few lines each. This

More information

THEME: Jesus knows all about us and He loves us.

THEME: Jesus knows all about us and He loves us. Devotion NT224 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Woman at the Well THEME: Jesus knows all about us and He loves us. SCRIPTURE: John 4:1-42 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!

More information

The Fruit of the Spirit is Love

The Fruit of the Spirit is Love The Fruit of the Spirit is Love Pre-Session Warm Up (Galatians 5:22-23) Today we are going to learn more about the fruit of the Spirit called, Love. What do you think of when you hear the word love? A

More information

Fruit of the Spirit LOVE 8-12-2013. Revised 1-27-2015

Fruit of the Spirit LOVE 8-12-2013. Revised 1-27-2015 Fruit of the Spirit LOVE 8-12-2013 Revised 1-27-2015 Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such

More information

~SHARING MY PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE~

~SHARING MY PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE~ April 2012 ~SHARING MY PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE~ Dear Friends, It is a certainty that shared values encourage cooperative relationships. I don t know who first said this, but I certainly believe it to be true.

More information

God s Mission for My Life: Rick Warren: Principal #5

God s Mission for My Life: Rick Warren: Principal #5 God s Mission for My Life: Rick Warren: Principal #5 Jesus: In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world, I give them a mission in the world. John 17:18 (The Message) The most important thing

More information

Reprinted by permission from Book of Common Worship, 1993 Westminster/John Knox Press

Reprinted by permission from Book of Common Worship, 1993 Westminster/John Knox Press Reprinted by permission from Book of Common Worship, 1993 Westminster/John Knox Press INVITATIONS to CONFESSION of SIN If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. But if

More information

THE ORDER OF THE MASS

THE ORDER OF THE MASS THE ORDER OF THE MASS The first part of the Mass is about getting to know everyone and welcoming everyone to God s house. It s called the INTRODUCTORY RITES. Entrance Song We sing to celebrate that we

More information

Greetings, Blessings, Scott DeWitt Director of Spiritual Outreach Casas por Cristo

Greetings, Blessings, Scott DeWitt Director of Spiritual Outreach Casas por Cristo Team Devotional Greetings, Welcome to Casas por Cristo! If you are reading this, then more than likely you are embarking on a week-long adventure serving our Lord and Savior along the U.S. / México border

More information

GOD AS CREATOR, OWNER, AND PERFECT GIFT-GIVER

GOD AS CREATOR, OWNER, AND PERFECT GIFT-GIVER PART TWO GOD AS CREATOR, OWNER, AND PERFECT GIFT-GIVER I. GOD AS CREATOR. To understand Christian stewardship we must accept that God is the creator of everything, owner of everything, and the perfect

More information

Predesigned Plan of God (PPOG)

Predesigned Plan of God (PPOG) Predestination or Predesigned Plan of God (PPOG) A letter to God the Father Revised 10-18-2013 Dear God the Father, Thank You for giving us the Bible. It has wonderful and precise directions for our adventure

More information

FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH SERIES HOW TO DEFEAT MAMMON

FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH SERIES HOW TO DEFEAT MAMMON FINANCIAL BREAKTHROUGH SERIES HOW TO DEFEAT MAMMON To have financial breakthrough, the answer is in His word. God tests our heart to see if He can bless us. Everybody needs money. Seek first the Kingdom

More information

LESSON TITLE: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

LESSON TITLE: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus Devotion NT257 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus THEME: Jesus always has time for us! SCRIPTURE: Mark 10:46-52 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids!

More information

LESSON TITLE: The Last Supper. Maidens. THEME: Jesus is the Passover lamb. SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:7-10 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF:

LESSON TITLE: The Last Supper. Maidens. THEME: Jesus is the Passover lamb. SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:7-10 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Devotion NT269 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Maidens LESSON TITLE: The Last Supper THEME: Jesus is the Passover lamb. SCRIPTURE: Luke 22:7-10 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids. Bible

More information

CATECHISM (adopted 2008) FOR CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CONFESSION OF FAITH

CATECHISM (adopted 2008) FOR CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CONFESSION OF FAITH (from 2008 preliminary minutes page 183) CATECHISM (adopted 2008) FOR CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CONFESSION OF FAITH 1. Who is God? God is the one living, active Creator of all that is, seen and unseen. 2.

More information

Home Is Where The Heart Is

Home Is Where The Heart Is Home Is Where The Heart Is Where is your heart? Is it where you are, or is it out searching for a relationship to fulfill you? Is your heart into making a home for yourself and your children, or is it

More information

THEME: We should take every opportunity to tell others about Jesus.

THEME: We should take every opportunity to tell others about Jesus. Devotion NT307 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Paul Goes Before Agrippa THEME: We should take every opportunity to tell others about Jesus. SCRIPTURE: Acts 25:13 26:32 Dear Parents

More information

Live in the Spirit. A Disciple s Identity. In order to be a follower of Christ, it is essential that we learn how

Live in the Spirit. A Disciple s Identity. In order to be a follower of Christ, it is essential that we learn how Live in the Spirit A Disciple s Identity In order to be a follower of Christ, it is essential that we learn how to live spiritually. God is spirit, and in our essence, so are we! We are spiritual beings

More information

Jesus is The Way. A copy of the activity sheet for each child A hole-punch Crayons, scissors, yarn, and double-sided tape Duct tape for one activity

Jesus is The Way. A copy of the activity sheet for each child A hole-punch Crayons, scissors, yarn, and double-sided tape Duct tape for one activity Jesus is The Way Teacher Pep Talk: How do we get to heaven? It seems like such a simple question, and it deserves a straightforward answer. Jesus gave that answer to His disciples on the night before His

More information

Scripture for Marketplace Ambassador Attributes

Scripture for Marketplace Ambassador Attributes Scripture for Marketplace Ambassador Attributes NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. 1. Walking daily in intimacy with Jesus Christ Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in

More information

Reality 2: God Pursues a Continuing Love Relationship with You that is Real and Personal

Reality 2: God Pursues a Continuing Love Relationship with You that is Real and Personal Reality 2: God Pursues a Continuing Love Relationship with You that is Real and Personal Reality 2: God Pursues a Continuing Love Relationship with You that is Real and Personal Created for a Love Relationship

More information

Jesus Parables in Chronological Order. Parable #46 ~ Matthew 25:31-46 ~ The Sheep and the Goats ~ Scripture

Jesus Parables in Chronological Order. Parable #46 ~ Matthew 25:31-46 ~ The Sheep and the Goats ~ Scripture Jesus Parables in Chronological Order Parable #46 ~ Matthew 25:31-46 ~ The Sheep and the Goats ~ Scripture 31 When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he 32 will sit on his

More information

Spiritually Enabled John 16:13

Spiritually Enabled John 16:13 Spiritually Enabled John 16:13 Last week Jim talked about foundations and the importance of having the right foundation in our lives. Without the right foundations, buildings become unstable. Without the

More information

50 scripture verses on worry

50 scripture verses on worry 50 scripture verses on worry 1. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matt 6:34 NIV 2. I can do all this through him who gives

More information

L i v i n g o u t a L i f e o f P e a c e Philippians 4:1-9

L i v i n g o u t a L i f e o f P e a c e Philippians 4:1-9 L i v i n g o u t a L i f e o f P e a c e Philippians 4:1-9 Philippians 4:1-9 4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear

More information

Parable of the Faithful Servant Lesson 3 February 14 & 15

Parable of the Faithful Servant Lesson 3 February 14 & 15 Parable of the Faithful Servant Lesson 3 February 14 & 15 Session Title: Parable of the Faithful Servant Bible Passage: Matthew 24:45-51; Luke 12:42-48 Big Picture Question: What should we always be ready

More information

LESSON TITLE: Our Chief Cornerstone. THEME: Jesus is our cornerstone! SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 2:19-22 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Dear Parents

LESSON TITLE: Our Chief Cornerstone. THEME: Jesus is our cornerstone! SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 2:19-22 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: Dear Parents Devotion NT328 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Our Chief Cornerstone THEME: Jesus is our cornerstone! SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 2:19-22 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids! This

More information

THEME: Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us.

THEME: Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us. Devotion NT285 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The Day of Pentecost THEME: Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us. Dear Parents SCRIPTURE: Acts 2:1-41 Dear Parents, Welcome

More information

LESSON TITLE: The House Built on the Rock

LESSON TITLE: The House Built on the Rock Devotion NT227 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: The House Built on the Rock THEME: We must hear and do the Word of God. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 7:24-29 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time

More information

Jesus Invites Me! Affirmation. I am welcome in the flock! Word: INVITATION

Jesus Invites Me! Affirmation. I am welcome in the flock! Word: INVITATION Jesus Invites Me! Word: INVITATION Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Affirmation I am welcome in the flock! (Matthew 25:34b)

More information

WHAT MATTERS MOST THE BEST USE OF LIFE IS LOVE

WHAT MATTERS MOST THE BEST USE OF LIFE IS LOVE WHAT MATTERS MOST Life is all about love. Because God is love, the most important lesson he wants you to learn on earth is how to love. It is in loving that we are most like him, so love is the foundation

More information

THE LOCKS AND KEYS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER THE LOCKS: TEN THINGS THAT BLOCK PRAYER. 1. Praying Without Knowing God Through Jesus

THE LOCKS AND KEYS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER THE LOCKS: TEN THINGS THAT BLOCK PRAYER. 1. Praying Without Knowing God Through Jesus THE LOCKS AND KEYS OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER THE LOCKS: TEN THINGS THAT BLOCK PRAYER 1. Praying Without Knowing God Through Jesus John 14:6 Jesus said to him, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one

More information

Jesus Came to Earth to Destroy the Works of the Devil JOHN PIPER Why Christmas Happened Jesus Incarnation and Our Regeneration The Great Love of God

Jesus Came to Earth to Destroy the Works of the Devil JOHN PIPER Why Christmas Happened Jesus Incarnation and Our Regeneration The Great Love of God Jesus Came to Earth to Destroy the Works of the Devil JOHN PIPER Why Christmas Happened Two times in 1 John 3:1-10 we are told why Christmas happened that is, why the eternal, divine Son of God came into

More information

KNOWING GOD PERSONALLY

KNOWING GOD PERSONALLY KNOWING GOD PERSONALLY These four points explain how you can enter into a personal relationship with God and experience the life for which you were created... GOD LOVES YOU AND CREATED YOU TO KNOW 1HIM

More information

John 20:31...these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.

John 20:31...these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. [ B E L I E V E R S B I B L E S T U D Y ] THE GOSPEL OF JOHN Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION... The Gospel of John is such a great book to study, as a new believer, because it speaks so clearly about Jesus. It

More information

Navigate: #God s will. God Has a Blueprint for My Life? Week #1: 11.9.13

Navigate: #God s will. God Has a Blueprint for My Life? Week #1: 11.9.13 Navigate: #God s will God Has a Blueprint for My Life? Week #1: 11.9.13 When it comes time to make a major life decision, most of us experience a heightened interest in discovering God s will. When making

More information

Jesus and the Counsellor in John s Gospel

Jesus and the Counsellor in John s Gospel Jesus and the Counsellor in John s Gospel In Jesus farewell speech, recorded in John s Gospel (chapters 13-17) Jesus introduces the disciples to one he calls the Counsellor. This Counsellor (the name itself

More information

THEME: Jesus wants us to grow in Him and be holy.

THEME: Jesus wants us to grow in Him and be holy. Devotion NT350 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Be Holy THEME: Jesus wants us to grow in Him and be holy. SCRIPTURE: 1 Peter 1:13-2:12 Dear Parents Welcome to Bible Time for Kids! This

More information

Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson

Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson 1 Preparing an Evangelistic Bible Lesson Prepare Your Heart Pray for yourself; ask God to speak to you through this Scripture passage. Pray for your students and

More information

Confirmation Faith Statement

Confirmation Faith Statement A is simply 1-2 paragraphs of what you believe about God, faith, Jesus, salvation, etc. Every Confirmation student will pick out a Confirmation verse as a basis of their faith statement. You can use one

More information

Step 10: How to develop and use your testimony to explain the gospel?

Step 10: How to develop and use your testimony to explain the gospel? Liberty University DigitalCommons@Liberty University Discipleship Materials Center for Global Ministries 2009 Step 10: How to develop and use your testimony to explain the gospel? Don Fanning Liberty University,

More information

@ Home FAMILY Study Session

@ Home FAMILY Study Session @ Home FAMILY Study Session Parents NOTE: CLASSES WILL NOT MEET on @ Home Study Session days. JYM Year 1 Students and their parents may work through the Beatitudes @ Home Study Session as a family. Parents

More information

Our Lady Invites Us To Wake Up From Our Spiritual Coma - Medjugorje.com

Our Lady Invites Us To Wake Up From Our Spiritual Coma - Medjugorje.com Medjugorje visionary, Ivan, speaking to several thousand pilgrims today, August 18, 2010. Ivan was given special instructions from Our Lady concerning the youth and family. Being married to an American

More information

"God's Wisdom Revealed to All (Ephesians 3:7-20)

God's Wisdom Revealed to All (Ephesians 3:7-20) "God's Wisdom Revealed to All (Ephesians 3:7-20) by Rev. Jackie Stoneman Paul begins this chapter by reminding the Ephesians that he is in fact a prisoner. Because he has been preaching to the Gospel especially

More information

The Joy of Serving God

The Joy of Serving God The Joy of Serving God Introduction 1 Peter 1:5-9 1. Isn t it a real JOY to be able to serve our God? A. Consider the following scriptures: Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking,

More information

The heavens declare the glory of God without words (see Psalm 19). Most importantly beyond that fact God has spoken with words in the Bible in a

The heavens declare the glory of God without words (see Psalm 19). Most importantly beyond that fact God has spoken with words in the Bible in a International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 1:1-14 English Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 7, 2014 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School

More information

International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 1:1-14

International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 1:1-14 International Bible Lessons Commentary Hebrews 1:1-14 New American Standard Bible International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 7, 2014 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday

More information

The Role of the Church in Today s Society

The Role of the Church in Today s Society CHURCH What is the Role of the Church in Today s Society? 1 The Role of the Church in Today s Society Ephesians 3:10 INTRODUCTION: A. Familiar sayings in threes... 1. Ready... Set... Go 2. Hop... Skip...

More information

In Him Reality Scriptures

In Him Reality Scriptures In Him Reality Scriptures Scriptures that tell us who we are in Christ and what He has done for us. All Scriptures are from the New King James Version. IN CHRIST Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by His

More information

Live for the Glory of God

Live for the Glory of God Live for the Glory of God The Disciple s Response to the Excellence of God How would you like to be remembered? As a successful person in my field of work. As one who accumulated great wealth and possessions.

More information

MAIN POINT THIS WEEK: Father, Son, and Spirit are united in their work (14:17 18, 23, 26; 15:26; 20:21 22).

MAIN POINT THIS WEEK: Father, Son, and Spirit are united in their work (14:17 18, 23, 26; 15:26; 20:21 22). LESSON 12 The Word is UNIFIED WITH FATHER AND SPIRIT IN THEIR WORK OF REVELATION AND REDEMPTION FACILITATOR S Note MAIN POINT THIS WEEK: Father, Son, and Spirit are united in their work (14:17 18, 23,

More information

You Have a Friend the Holy Spirit

You Have a Friend the Holy Spirit 16 Lesson 1 You Have a Friend the Holy Spirit Today, more than ever before in the history of the world, people are talking about the Holy Spirit and His work. They have discovered that He is a Person,

More information

Crossing Kids Advent Devotional

Crossing Kids Advent Devotional Every Good and Perfect Gift: Crossing Kids Advent Devotional Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James

More information

THEME: God tells us how we can be leaders in His church.

THEME: God tells us how we can be leaders in His church. Devotion NT338 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: So You Want to Be a Leader? THEME: God tells us how we can be leaders in His church. SCRIPTURE: 1 Timothy 3:1-16 Dear Parents Welcome

More information

International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes January 11, 2015. Lesson Text: John 17:6-21 Lesson Title: Jesus Prayer for His Disciples.

International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes January 11, 2015. Lesson Text: John 17:6-21 Lesson Title: Jesus Prayer for His Disciples. International Sunday School Lesson Study Notes January 11, 2015 Lesson Text: John 17:6-21 Lesson Title: Jesus Prayer for His Disciples Introduction John 17 is without question one of the greatest chapters

More information

Whom Shall I Send? Isaiah 6: 8-13

Whom Shall I Send? Isaiah 6: 8-13 Whom Shall I Send? Isaiah 6: 8-13 Isaiah lived in a day much like ours. The people of Judah had developed a sense of arrogance toward God. They were His chosen people; He had brought them out of Egypt,

More information

LESSON TITLE: Spiritual Gifts. THEME: God gives us all different gifts to serve Him and to serve others! SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 12:1-31; 14:1-40

LESSON TITLE: Spiritual Gifts. THEME: God gives us all different gifts to serve Him and to serve others! SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 12:1-31; 14:1-40 Devotion NT319 CHILDREN S DEVOTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF: LESSON TITLE: Spiritual Gifts THEME: God gives us all different gifts to serve Him and to serve others! SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 12:1-31; 14:1-40 Dear

More information

THE REQUIREMENTS OF COMMITTED MEMBERS Part 2

THE REQUIREMENTS OF COMMITTED MEMBERS Part 2 THE REQUIREMENTS OF COMMITTED MEMBERS Part 2 We need to give strong support. We cannot give strong support unless we become mighty men. None of us should fail because this is God s plan. God wants us to

More information

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. Proverbs 31:25 NIV Every word of God is pure: he is a shield to those who put their trust in him. Proverbs 30:5 NKJV Do not

More information

a. I want to talk about what Dave Ramsey calls one of the biggest misunderstandings or the number-one myth about money.

a. I want to talk about what Dave Ramsey calls one of the biggest misunderstandings or the number-one myth about money. The Number-One Myth About Money Text: Psalm 24:1 I. Intro a. I want to talk about what Dave Ramsey calls one of the biggest misunderstandings or the number-one myth about money. We have this tremendous

More information

Growth in Grace. Prayer ~ May I grow in Your grace and in the knowledge of your ways. Self- Control

Growth in Grace. Prayer ~ May I grow in Your grace and in the knowledge of your ways. Self- Control Salvation 1 Growth in Grace 2 Love 3 Isaiah 45:8 Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness: let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness

More information

FOUNDATIONS, THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: LESSON #1

FOUNDATIONS, THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: LESSON #1 FOUNDATIONS, THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: LESSON #1 Intro. Tonight we re going to begin a series on The Fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV) 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering,

More information

"How Important is Prayer in My Life?"

How Important is Prayer in My Life? PRAYER LESSON 6 return pages 5 & 6 1 "How Important is Prayer in My Life?" Someone once said that a Christian is only as strong as his prayer life. There is a great deal of truth in this because prayer

More information

OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF REJECTION Series: Freedom From Your Fears - Part 7 of 10

OVERCOMING THE FEAR OF REJECTION Series: Freedom From Your Fears - Part 7 of 10 Series: Freedom From Your Fears - Part 7 of 10 Proverbs 29:25 Fear of man is a dangerous trap, but to trust in God means safety. (Living Bible) INTRODUCTION Today we're looking at the Fear of Rejection.

More information

Discipleship Letters from John's Letters Appendix 1. Lesson Handouts

Discipleship Letters from John's Letters Appendix 1. Lesson Handouts Discipleship Letters from John's Letters Appendix 1. Lesson Handouts If you re working with a class or small group, feel free to duplicate the following handouts for your local group at no charge. Each

More information

To Be Like Jesus Scope & Sequence

To Be Like Jesus Scope & Sequence To Be Like Jesus Scope & Sequence To Be Like Jesus is a study for children on following Jesus. The study answers important questions about salvation and sanctification by explaining elements of the Gospel

More information

Denver Baptist Church

Denver Baptist Church Denver Baptist Church 2016 Bible Reading Plan All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training that the man of God may be complete, equipped

More information

Thank You Lord for Loving Me

Thank You Lord for Loving Me Stand Up and Shout It! Stand up and shout it if you love my Jesus, Stand up and shout it if you love my Lord, I want to know, oh, I want to know, do you love my Lord? Chorus: He s my rock, my sword, my

More information

The Armor of God. Lesson 1 LESSON #2. What is Armor? What to Do with the Armor. Where to Find Out About the Armor of God. What God s Armor is Like

The Armor of God. Lesson 1 LESSON #2. What is Armor? What to Do with the Armor. Where to Find Out About the Armor of God. What God s Armor is Like Lesson 1 What is Armor? The Armor of God Ephesians 6:10-18 Do you know what armor is?[teacher, print the word for the class to see. Give an opportunity for response. If possible, build on children s answers.]

More information