Sermon Notes: 02/06/22 – Matters of the Heart1
Scripture Reading: Philippians 1:6-11
Blood Drive – Feb 13th, 12-4pm – bloodassurance.org/CCOC
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”
“If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body.” Philippians 1:22-24
Link in Google Books: In Jesus’ Strong Hands: Victors Instead of Victims
ILLUS: There’s a legend about a wealthy merchant who traveled thru-out the Mediterranean world looking for an opportunity to meet the Apostle Paul. After a time, he encountered a disciple of Paul’s named Timothy, and Timothy arranged a visit. But at the time (according to the legend) Paul was a prisoner in Rome, living in a jail cell.
Stepping inside the cell, the merchant was surprised to find a frail old man. But as he talked with him (and they talked for hours) he found Paul to be a man of deep peace and power.
Finally the merchant left Paul… and outside the prison, he asked Timothy “What is the secret of this man’s power? I have never seen anything like it before.”
“Oh, didn’t you know?” replied Timothy. “PAUL is in love.”
The merchant looked bewildered. “In Love?”
“Oh yes,” Timothy answered, “Paul is in love with Jesus Christ.”
The merchant scoffed. “Is that all?”
Timothy smiled and then replied, “Yes sir. That’s all… but that is everything.”
Link in Google Books: In Jesus’ Strong Hands: Victors Instead of Victims
Philippians 1:12-13 “Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ”
“All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.” Philippians 4:22
ILLUS: DARRYL BURTON: In 1984, a drug dealer was shot to death at a gas station in St. Louis, Missouri. The man who shot him was a light-skinned African American male, 5’5” in height. Police looked for suspects and even though Darryl Burton was dark skinned and 5’10” in height, he was summoned to a police line up. Two men came forward identifying Darryl as the murder. Both were awaiting trial, but were given a lighter sentence if they testified that Burton was guilty. Darryl Burton was assigned a public defender who spent only one hour with him before his trial and the jury convicted him in less than an hour. Darryl found himself being sentenced to life in prison without parole. He was assigned to the Missouri State Penitentiary, one of the most violent prisons in the U.S.
Darryl remembers, “When I heard the jurors say guilty, I felt shock and disbelief. I just didn’t think, in America, an innocent man could be sent to prison, especially capital murder” explained Burton. He clearly remembers a huge banner that hung at the entrance of the penitentiary that said “Welcome to the Missouri State Pen. Leave all your hopes, family, and dreams behind.” “When I saw that banner, it deeply affected me and I lost all hope. I hated the place, the system, and anyone that had anything to do with it. It was hell on earth – filled with violence, evil, and hate.”
Darryl remained in prison twenty-four years from 1984-2009 and spent many of those days in the prison law library, dedicated to proving his innocence. He wrote over 600 letters to members of the government, nonprofit organizations, even Oprah Winfrey to plead his case. However, it was not until he allowed Christ into his life that he began to experience a change. Darryl discovered that anger and hate can be another prison, and that Jesus said we must love our enemies, pray for them, and forgive them. “Until I read that truth in Luke 23:34, I didn’t think that was possible,“ he said. Ten years prior to Darryl’s exoneration, he felt emotionally and spiritually freed. “God had to work something out of me (bitterness and hatred), in order to work something into me (love and grace), in order to do His work through me.”
After learning of a confession from a witness who admitted in 1985, “You have the wrong man, he’s too dark,” Darryl worked with Centurion Ministries to have his wrongful conviction overturned. Darryl often recalls a letter that he wrote to Jesus while imprisoned. It said “Jesus, if you’re real and help me get out of this place, not only will I serve you, but I’ll tell the world about you.”
Darryl now shares his nightmare story of adversity to help others and bring glory to the name of Jesus Christ. Since 2008, he has spoken about forgiveness, redemption, and hope at churches, conferences and lectures around the globe. Seven years after his exoneration, he never takes one day for granted. He didn’t just live for Christ when things were going well. https://www.darrylburton.org/about
Philippians 1:29 “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him.”
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” 1 Peter 4:12
Church Curmudgeon: https://twitter.com/ChrchCurmudgeon?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
“Usually when the writing is on the wall, it portends the death of a culture. But hey, fine, throw out the hymnals and use a projector.“ – CM
Philippians 1:9-11 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ— to the glory and praise of God.”
CLOSE: KILL EM WITH KINDNESS About 6 year ago, famous singer/actress Selena Gomez was going through some major challenges and catching a lot of tabloid criticism. I love that she was in the midst of all that that she released a song that epitomizes Paul’s words on how to treat the world. Here’s the acapella version of “Kill Em with Kindness.” Sung by acapella artist, Julia Westin.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-03gGXtwwiM
The world can be a nasty place
You know it, I know it, yeah
See, we don’t have to fall from grace
Put down the weapons you fight with
And kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em, kill ’em, kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em with kindness
Go ahead, go ahead now
We’re running out of time chasing our lives
Everyday a small piece of you dies
There’s aways somebody you’re willing to fight, to be right
Your lies are bullets, your mouth’s a gun
No war and anger was ever won
Put out the fire before igniting
Next time you’re fighting
Please, kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em with kindness
Kill ’em, kill ’em, kill ’em with kindness
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Class Notes – Biblical Ecclesiology – God’s Gifts
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Sermon Notes: 01/30 – New Beginnings #5
New Beginnings: Creating Longing
Tik Tok artist named Tyler Shaw, posted on Youtube on January 13, 2022. It’s music starts just the same but continues with these lyrics. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeaLd3VfWU0
(Lyrics Chorus):
a b c d e f g h i love you still
and you know i always will till the end of time
i won’t change my mind
love you i’ll be there
i will never disappear
WELCOME: to Central Church of Christ, not a place, but a people called out to show God’s love, tell God’s story, and be God’s family. We shifted from a wonderful Christmas season to thinking about the new year of 2022, we wanted to focus on New Beginnings and Psalm 119 is the perfect place to orient us. As listed on BibleStudy.org, the number 8 is widely recognized as the number of “New Beginnings” and with all 176 poetic verses in Psalm 119 organized into groups of 8, I very well say that Psalm 119 is a great place to begin again in the new year. After looking at many stanzas that have taken us all over the Bible, Today we look at the last segment of Psalm 119 that points us to a very desperate and needed truth in our faith!
174 I long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my delight.
175 Let my soul live and praise you,
and let your rules help me.
176 I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
for I do not forget your commandments.
Mark Twain was a noted humorist and atheist in his day didn’t think much of heaven.
“There is no humor in heaven.” (Captain Stormfield’s Visit to Heaven)
And he said he preferred “Heaven for the climate, Hell for the company.”
Revelation 4:2-3 – “The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps, and they were SINGING A NEW SONG before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders…”
I Corinthians 15:51-53 “Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.”
John said he saw “a NEW heaven and a NEW earth” Revelation 21:1
‘Behold, I am making ALL THINGS NEW…’” Revelation 21:5
“The wall was built of jasper, while the city was pure gold, clear as glass. The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald,… etc. etc.” Rev 21:18-19
In Psalm 37:4 God promises:
“Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
2 Samuel 12:8 “if that had been too little, I also would have given you much more!.”
Revelation 21:3-4 “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning nor crying nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
Someone took this promise and composed a poem that goes like this:
“No dust, nor rust, no rats, no rot,
No raucous rock, no potent pot.
All tell the truth, state only facts,
No wars, no debts, no income tax.
No growing old with weakened sight,
No dentures slipping when you bite,
No bombs, no guns, no courts, no jails,
Where all succeed and no one fails.
According to this dream of mine
In Heaven no one stands in line.
And there are only smiling faces
And lots and lots of parking places.”
(Humorist Richard Armour)
1 Thessalonians 4:16 “the Lord himself shall descend from heaven WITH A SHOUT…”
I long for your salvation, O Lord,
and your law is my delight. – Psalm 119:174
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Alma Frasier Funeral Arrangements
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Sermon Notes: 01/23 NB4 – A teachable heart
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- Scripture Focus: Psalm 119:132-135 Luke 6:37-42
“A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.” Luke 6:40
A Teacher’s pet is “a student in a class who is liked best by the teacher and therefore treated better than the other students.” (Cambridge Dictionary – https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/teacher-s-pet)
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- WELCOME: to Central Church of Christ, not a place, but a people called out to show God’s love, tell God’s story, and be God’s family. I appreciate Bob being so willing to share a message of faith last week from modern science and astronomy. As we shift from a wonderful Christmas season to thinking about the new year of 2022, we want to focus on New Beginnings and Psalm 119 is the perfect place to begin! As listed on BibleStudy.org, the number 8 is widely recognized as the number of “New Beginnings” and with all 176 poetic verses in Psalm 119 organized into groups of 8, I very well say that Psalm 119 is a great place to begin again in the new year. Today we look at the commands nearer to the end of Psalm 119. To New Beginnings – A Teachable Heart –
Pe
129 Your testimonies are wonderful;
therefore my soul keeps them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
because I long for your commandments.
132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
as is your way with those who love your name.
133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
and let no iniquity get dominion over me.
134 Redeem me from man’s oppression,
that I may keep your precepts.
135 Make your face shine upon your servant,
and teach me your statutes.
136 My eyes shed streams of tears,
because people do not keep your law.
2 Chronicles 16:9 “the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him….”
Luke 6:37-42 – “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38 give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”
39 He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. 41 Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 42 How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.
“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned…” Luke 6:37
“…forgive, and you will be forgiven” Luke 6:37
“Pray like this: ‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the Kingdom and the power and glory forever. Amen’” Matthew 6:9-13
Did you notice how Jesus expected us to ask the Father to “forgive us our debts?” That right – in the same was “we forgive our debtors.” But just in case you missed the connection, Jesus completes His teaching on how to pray with these words: “IF you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, BUT IF you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matthew 6:14-15
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34
“… love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” Luke 6:35
“give (to your enemy) it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.” Luke 6:38
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- “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye. “For no good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit, for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thornbushes, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Luke 6:41-45
“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.” – Romans 12:2
Pe
129 Your testimonies are wonderful;
therefore my soul keeps them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
because I long for your commandments.
132 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
as is your way with those who love your name.
133 Keep steady my steps according to your promise,
and let no iniquity get dominion over me.
134 Redeem me from man’s oppression,
that I may keep your precepts.
135 Make your face shine upon your servant,
and teach me your statutes.
136 My eyes shed streams of tears,
because people do not keep your law.
INVITATION
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CentralInvolve
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Women’s Service Postponed, Men’s Breakfast at 8am
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Services on Normal Schedule
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Weekend Changes
- The scheduled ministry presentations & signups will be postponed one week to 9AM on Sunday, January 23rd in the auditorium.
- For this Sunday, Jan 16, 8AM LifeCare, 9AM Bible Classes, 10AM Worship, and 5PM Singing Service are all scheduled as normal.
Due to the inclement weather forecast, we will let the congregation know at 7AM Sunday regarding any changes in services via phone tree, email, app, and social media. - We are prepared for virtual Zoom worship if travel conditions become hazardous. The Zoom meeting code will be 673-063-1503 with a passcode of 8362874. We will also continue to livestream on Youtube, Roku, Amazon Fire, Apple TV, Facebook, & the church website http://www.christiscentral.org . We will notify the congregation at 7AM on Sunday regarding any changes in services.
- If you would like communion packets, we will have them available at four locations for pickup this weekend. They will be available in the front seat of the unlocked small church van at the building for those living toward the east; at Jimmy & Pat Wallace’s house for the southern side of town, at Ty & Janet’s for the northern side of town, at Les & Becky Tubb’s house for the west side of town.
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Growth Groups Begin Anew
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Happy 2022 – Online & Paper Bible Reading
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New Year’s Game Night
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Stockton Family FFA in the Newspaper
Posted
Some families hand recipes down from generation to generation. Some families pass jewelry and heirlooms from grandparents to parents to children. Some families instill a love for a certain college athletic team in their children. Some families make memories visiting their favorite vacation spot year after year.
The Stocktons, however, have been passing a love for farming, making memories in the fields and the barns on their land, and instilling a love for the Future Farmers of America across three generations.
Mike Stockton, his son Paul, and Mike’s grandchildren, Mackenzie and Will, are all members of the White County Chapter of FFA, with the youngest, Will, getting his blue jacket and continuing the family tradition, this fall.
Both Paul and his father Mike have earned Greenhand Degrees, Chapter Degrees, and the coveted Tennessee FFA State Degree during their time in the organization, and, while Mike has become limited in his involvement in the local chapter recently because of his age, he still loves to teach his grandchildren and pass along all the family knowledge of agriculture. Paul, on the other hand, is still heavily involved in FFA, volunteering his time to help with any of the local chapter events and coaching the livestock judging team in judging cattle.
“Agriculture has been a big part of all our lives since we were young,” Paul explained about the family tradition. “Being involved in FFA gave us the opportunity to make connections with others who live the same way of life we do, learn and expand our knowledge within our desired fields, and also allows us to teach others and advocate for the importance of agriculture.”
While helping the local FFA chapter is a passion for the Stockton family, teaching begins at home, and both father and grandfather wanted to teach the next generation the importance of hard work and responsibility. Mackenzie and Will grew up riding the family tractor and feeding cows with their dad, while also spending time in the garden, planting vegetables with their grandfather.
“We wanted them to know that they would get back whatever they put into their work,” Paul said about having his children working in the fields at early ages and added that the agricultural work is year-round. “Training show calves, showing our cattle, and starting a garden usually starts out our year in the winter and spring. Summer is a lot of work as we start the major shows of the circuit, maintain our garden and prepare for harvest, and cut hay to prepare for the coming winter. Fall and winter at the end of the year consists of our final harvest in the garden and feeding our calves hay through winter.”
And, as if that wasn’t enough to keep all three generations of White County FFA members busy, Paul and Mackenzie are busy throughout the entire year selling the calves they raise and working with Mackenzie’s horse.
While the work is hard and the hours are long, you won’t find the Stocktons, even the youngest generation, complaining.
“My favorite part of farming is reaping the rewards of all my hard work. Buying and raising animals with potential and seeing them improve over time as I work with them,” Mackenzie, who is a senior at White County High School, said while her brother, Will, a freshman this year, said that studying ways to improve the crop yield and quality of plants in both his flower and vegetable gardens are his favorite parts of working on the farm.
Working on the farm, whether in the fields or the barns, is a family tradition, but so is participating in the White County chapter of the Future Farmers of America, where each of the Stocktons said they have learned more about themselves and connect with like-minded individuals who will aid them in their futures.
“Getting to learn more about agriculture and applying what I’ve learned on my own farm is something I took away from all of my years involved in FFA,” Mike said, while his son, Paul, said making new friends who share your interests and values and being able to stand with them, and them with you, through the highs and lows of both farming and life itself is something he will always cherish.
“FFA has allowed me to find my place in school as well as helped me to find what my interests are,” Will, the last of the Stocktons to have been able to put on the Blue Jacket, said explaining the importance of the organization to him, while his sister said meeting new people from across the state and sharing a collective knowledge of agriculture with them is what makes being an FFA member important to her.
While each of the Stocktons got their start in FFA in the halls of White County High School, and while Mike and Paul have continued their involvement through their adult lives and have shared a love for agriculture and instilled the importance of working the land in Mackenzie and Will, the future for the youngest two is still theirs to make what they want out of it, but there is no doubt that FFA will play a part in helping them determine what that future looks like.
“I hope that my experience in farming and FFA has given me the knowledge I need to one day become a successful large animal veterinarian and to help me better run my own farm in the future,” Mackenzie, who will graduate in a few short months, said.
Then, she will start the next leg of her agriculture education as she builds on the foundation that her father, grandfather, and FFA have given her.
And Will, while he has a few more years as a student member of the White County FFA chapter, is looking toward the future as well, saying he hopes the skills he has learned on the farm and the knowledge he will gain over his next four years in FFA will help him decide what his future will include.
“Having my family involved in agriculture has made them into more responsible and well-rounded individuals,” Amanda, Paul’s wife and the mother of the youngest generation of Stockton FFA members, said. “It also makes me happy to see them engaging in things that they are passionate about that will have an impact on their communities.”
Posted from the Expositor here: https://spartalive.com/stories/ffa-lives-across-three-generations,41991?fbclid=IwAR1aolysysccBns0L0dWOOxScDEoBaazXlRcmgotEqFFARm1AdPsvYhcRQ4
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New Wed PM Class: Biblical Ecclesiology
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Sermon Notes: 12/26: New Beginnings – Lighting the Way
WELCOME: to Central Church of Christ. As we shift from a wonderful Christmas season to thinking about the new year of 2022, we want to focus on New Beginnings and Psalm 119 is the perfect place to begin!
- This chapter is not only unique in its length but also in its symmetry, for it is laid out to coincide with the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.
- The Psalm is a mosaic arranged around the central theme of God’s Word being a perfect acrostic structure. Each of the 22 stanzas contain precisely 8 verses and each of the 8 verses correspond with the letter of the Hebrew alphabet (each letter being represented 8 times? for instance, the first 8 verses all begin with the Hebrew letter aleph; the next begin with the letter bet and so on.)
- Interesting that there are 8 verses in each stanza, for the number eight is the number of NEW BEGINNINGS in the Bible? Noah was the 8th person in the Ark (Genesis 7: 7; 2 Peter 2: 5) and the one who began the human race anew. The Hebrew male child is to be circumcised on the 8th day of his new life. On the 8th day (the first day after the Sabbath), Jesus Christ came bursting forth from the grave. This Psalm is to be one of NEW BEGINNINGS. This is why this 7-part series is entitled New Beginnings in the Word.
II Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
James 1:22 “Be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” (And Luke 6:46)
Matthew 7:24-27 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
1 Blessed are they whose ways are blameless,
who walk according to the law of the Lord.
9 How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
10 I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Matthew 15:18-20 “But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man ‘unclean.’ For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man ‘unclean’; but eating with unwashed hands does not make him ‘unclean.’”
Hebrews 11:24-26 “By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.”
Titus 2:11-14 “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”
Psalm 119:11 “Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
2 Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.
James 1:16-17 “Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
Ephesians 1:3 “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
14 I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.
http://www.pecangrovechurch.com/people/robert-reid/
ILL.- The Anvil of God’s Word
Last eve I passed beside a blacksmith’s door
And heard the anvil ring the vesper chime;
When looking in, I saw upon the floor,
Old hammers worn with beating years of time.
“How many anvils have you had,” said I,
“To wear and batter these hammers so?”
“Just one,” said he; then with a twinkling eye,
“The anvil wears the hammers out, you know.”
And so, I thought, the anvil of God’s Word,
For ages, skeptics blows have beat upon;
Yet, though the noise of falling blows was heard,
The anvil is unharmed – the hammers gone.
~ John Clifford
John Clifford has poetically explained what the good Lord taught 2600 years ago:
‘Is not my word like fire,’ declares the Lord, ‘and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?’ (Jeremiah 23:29)
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New Bible Reading Plan for 2022
The hardest part about reading the Bible through in a year is habitually reading the Bible. Yup, you read that right. It’s not the time (it only takes 10-12 mins a day), and it’s not about the text (that’s about 1500 words or 3 pages), the hard part is the habit of reading. We choose Bible plans to read every year, but we’re not concerned with how much or how little you read per day, but that you spend time every day in God’s Word!
This year, we invite you to join us online or on paper as we read through the Bible in a year (it’s been 2 years since we’ve done it), using the Bible Project’s plan called “One Story That Leads To Jesus.” These readings also have high quality devotional videos for you to enjoy to enhance your reading if you use the YouVersion Bible App.
Click here to sign up and follow in the YouVersion Bible App. https://bible.com/p/47919547/e1d3fa1cae141d65e3f89c3737cff000
Click here to sign up and follow in the YouVersion Bible App. https://bible.com/p/47919547/e1d3fa1cae141d65e3f89c3737cff000
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Spoofed Email Scam
1) Report the email as “Phishing” to your email service provider.
2) Email me or text me letting me know you received one.
https://support.google.com/mail/answer/8253?hl=en#zippy=%2Creport-a-phishing-email
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Sermon Notes: 12/19 – Christmas Prep #4 – “Grateful Hope”
Christmas Prep4: A Grateful Hope
Scripture Reading: Luke 2:33-38
INTRO: A Hopeful Invitation
https://jimdaly.focusonthefamily.com/a-story-of-presidential-kindness/
WELCOME: to Central: Week 4 of Christmas Prep
Week 1: Repentence – God prepared the Christmas story with John the Baptist first.
Week 2: Deep and Abiding Faith – God prepared for Christmas with Mary making at least 8 references to God Almighty – instead of references to a cute baby.
Week 3: Humility – Do you have a humble heart that makes room for Jesus?
Week 4: Grateful Hope!
Luke 2:25-26 “there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for (anticipating) the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit, that he would not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”
Luke 2:38 “she began to give thanks to God and to speak of (Jesus) to all who were waiting for (anticipating) the redemption of Jerusalem.”
YES IMPORTANT! BUT THEY WERE! They were important to God! And do you know HOW I know they were important to God? God told us their names… and He told us what they said. Their lives mattered because God said they mattered.
God says that Simeon was “righteous and devout” (Luke 2:25).
https://www.shinesty.com/products/western-ugly-christmas-suit –
Devoted – https://www.thescore.com/news/1973115
Anna was an 84 year old widow who “did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.” (Luke 2:37) Anna was always at the Temple, and she COMMITTED herself to fasting… and to praying night and day.
This is my story, this is my song
I have a hope that’s stronger then the dust I’m standing on
This is my anchor, my cornerstone
This is the anthem I’ll be singing, till the Kingdom comes
I am committed, I’m not ashamed
I pledge my allegiance to Jesus, My King
I am committed, got nothing to hide
I’m not giving up, not selling out, I’m in this for life
I am committed, to Christ
https://abcnews.go.com/Business/salvation-army-bells-noise-complaint/story?id=17780903
ILLUS: CHRISTMAS WISH LIST! 10 year old girl.
When Anna saw Jesus “she began to give thanks to God and to speak of (Jesus) to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.” Luke 2:38
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the earth,
Every creature was stirring, awaiting a birth.
The time for Messiah was certainly near,
The prophets foretold it; the Bible was clear.
From the book of beginnings, the very first sin,
God’s word made it clear how His grace entered in.
Born of a virgin, He’d come as a man.
The Creator among us, the time was at hand.
The stars were arranged to show marvelous things,
Setting Wise Men to journey and find the true King.
Shepherds in Bethlehem gazed on the sky,
Longing to see him, their Lord the Most High.
How could they know that the very next night
An angel of God would speak words of delight?
How the Savior was born, it was news of great joy.
In a cloth and a manger they’d find the dear boy.
And a heavenly host would soon join to sing
Of the glory of God and of wonderful things.
He entered creation, set position aside
To show us how deeply his love did abide.
Sin sent us away from our almighty Lord.
He became one of us that we might be restored.
He’s the Prince of our Peace; He’s the one who makes whole.
He is Wisdom Incarnate, a Shepherd of Souls.
He’s the Author of Life; He’s the Ruler of All.
He can offer salvation, on His name we call.
The shepherds and Wise Men would bow to adore
Holy God among men, our greatest reward.
All glory and honor is due to this King.
Let all join in worship; let every tongue sing.
Jesus is Lord, all creation proclaims.
He’s the first and last, He is always the same.
History turned on the first Christmas day,
When God became man in a humble display.
As we think of the manger in which He was laid,
Let our hearts welcome Him to the world He made!
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Singing Service Tomorrow Night!
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Cookie Decorating & Devo
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Bloom Ladies Painting Party
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Ellis O’Neal Obituary & Funeral Services
Wiley Ellis O’Neal Jr, age 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 10, 2021, at his home in Sparta, TN surrounded by his loving family.
He was born to the late Wiley Ellis O’Neal Sr. and Vione Acord O’Neal on September 21st, 1941, in Edwight, WV.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Wiley and Vione O’Neal and siblings, Colleen, Ivan, Ruth, and John.
He is survived by his Loving wife of 58 years, Jo O’Neal and four children,
daughter, Tammy Sells (husband Ricky) of Madison, AL.,
son, Mike O’Neal (wife Vanessa) of Sparta, TN,
son, Greg O’Neal (wife Michele) of Sparta, TN,
and son, Jonathan O’Neal (wife Jen) of Crossville, TN.
He is also survived by nine grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and brothers Larry and Paul O’Neal.
ARRANGEMENTS:
Funeral services will be Sunday, December 12th , 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at Thurman Funeral Home. Interment will be at Eastland Cemetery. Officiating will be done by the family and Brother Jack Chadwell.
Visitation will be Sunday, December 12th, 2021, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Thurman Funeral Home.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ellis O’Neal, please visit our floral store.
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Sermon Notes: 12/12 – Christmas Prep #3 – Decorating the Cross
Luke 2:1-7
“I don’t have room for you in the hotel, but I’d love to have you come in for milk and cookies.”
WELCOME To Central Church of Christ. Week 3. Put more time into decorating your souls for the coming of the Christ than decorating your house for the coming of Christmas.
Week 1: Repentence – God prepared the Christmas story with John the Baptist first.
Week 2: Deep and Abiding Faith – God prepared for Christmas with Mary making at least 8 references to God Almighty – instead of references to a cute baby.
Oprah Dealing with Family Disfunction– Rooted in Biblical Principals – https://www.oprah.com/omagazine/dealing-with-a-dysfunctional-family-during-the-holidays/all
- Give Up Hope – Of Changing People
- Set Secure Boundaries – BEFORE you meet
- Lose Control – Stop trying to control others
- Become a Participant Observer
- Debrief afterwards
“I am so glad He was not born in some rich palace bed. I am so glad to know it was a lowly place, instead. A place where soft-eyed cows and sheep were sheltered and were fed. For to the country born of earth a stable will ever be a wholesome place, where night comes down with its tranquility, a place of heart’s ease and content for all who choose to see. And so I like to think of Him first opening His eyes in that good elemental place beneath the friendly skies. That the men of fields could find Him there, as well as the great and wise.” (Grace Noel Crowell)
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Paul wrote “do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. AND SUCH WERE SOME OF YOU. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” I Corinthians 6:9-11
Max Lucado once noted that the manger was a statement that “there is no place Jesus will not go. If he is willing to be born in a barnyard, then expect him to be at work anywhere— bars, bedrooms, boardrooms, and brothels. No place is too common. No person is too hardened. No distance is too far. There is no person he cannot reach. There is no limit to his love.” (http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2016/12/01/max-lucado-should-just-skip-christmas-this-year.html)
John 1:11 tells us “He came to his own, and his own did not receive him.”
John 15:18 Jesus told His disciples “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”
“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.” I Peter 4:12-14
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DraQIZB3k94 – Straight No Chaser – 2018
“Sweet Little Jesus Boy, they made you be born in a manger. Sweet little Holy Child, didn’t know who You was. Didn’t know You’d come to save us, Lord – to take our sins away. Our eyes was blind, we couldn’t see. We didn’t know who you was.” (Our Daily Bread 12/24/01)
CLOSE: – Decorate Your Soul with Humility
- Kneel at the cross,
Christ will meet you there,
Come while He waits for you;
List to His voice,
Leave with Him your care
And begin life anew.
- Refrain:
Kneel at the cross,
Leave every care;
Kneel at the cross,
Jesus will meet you there.
- Kneel at the cross,
There is room for all
Who would His glory share;
Bliss there awaits,
Harm can ne’er befall
Those who are anchored there
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Ellis O’Neal
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Christmas Angel Tree SignUps
Thank you for your interest in providing a great Christmas experience for underprivileged students in our White County Public Schools program. Every year our church family adopts underprivileged children identified in the school system. This year Central Church of Christ has adopted multiple students from different families. Below you will find some ages ans sizes for the children we are providing for. Pray daily for them, write a note to them, and bless them with gifts as if they were your own children! You can sign up to purchase one gift or purchase many gifts All gifts must be returned unwrapped to the church office by Wednesday Services at 6:30pm on Dec 15th. We will also deliver Christmas meals to the families with the gifts. For questions, please contact Ashley Aaron or Topher Wiles. Click the link to sign up!
“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0A48A9A62FABFE3-2021
Show God’s Love. Tell God’s Story. Be God’s Family
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Sermon Notes: 12/5 – Christmas Prep 2 – Room for God
Funny: Jon Crist (3.5mins)– Modern Mary & Joseph: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAcxlZdR27U
WELCOME: to Central Church of Christ, not a place, a building, or a religion, but a people called out by God to Show His Love, Tell His Story, and Be His Family. Today’s sermon series is the second message inspired by our Christmas preparations, where we ask the questions, “Do we prepare for the coming of the Christ more than the coming of Christmas? How did God prepare the world for the coming of Christmas!”
“In the beginning was the Word (that’s Jesus), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1
1 Peter 1:20 says “(Jesus) was foreknown before the foundation of the world
Galatians 4:4 tells us that “when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son”
- Isaiah 7:14 that declared: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
- Micah 5:2 – But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old,
from ancient days. - Psalm 72:8-11 – May he have dominion from sea to sea,
and from the River to the ends of the earth!
9 May desert tribes bow down before him, and his enemies lick the dust!
10 May the kings of Tarshish and of the coastlands render him tribute;
may the kings of Sheba and Seba bring gifts!
11 May all kings fall down before him, all nations serve him!
“In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary…. And the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.’ And Mary said to the angel, ‘How will this be, since I am a virgin?’ And the angel answered her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy — the Son of God.’” Luke 1:26-27 & 31-35
Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6
Isaiah 7:14 “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.”
“The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.” Luke 1:17
Look at all the references to God in this passage Luke 1:26-37 : 26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin? 35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.”
THIS PASSAGE SHOW’S A FOCUS ON THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD!
“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Luke 1:38
1 Peter 2:9 says “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession.”
“For 2000 years parents and grandparents have passed on the story of Jesus. It has changed millions of lives and the whole world.” Gene Dulin, a preacher and Christian missionary who lived just north of our family in Plainfield, Indiana.
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Wiles out of town Backpacking
To look at more info, you can see our .pdf itinerary here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1x2E-InH93rHReLtjDBghpQ0pGNdSnzBH/view?usp=sharing
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Low Gap Trailhead (Hwy421) to Laurel Branch Trailhead (Hwy321) = 27.1 miles |
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LOCATION |
AT Mileage from Start |
Mileage Between |
Day |
Day Mileage |
High Temp |
Low Tepm |
Elevation (ft) |
Change |
Water |
|
US-421 – Low Gap, TN |
0 |
0.0 |
Wed AM |
60 |
44 |
3438 |
|||
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Double Springs Shelter |
3.5 |
3.5 |
Wed PM |
3.5 |
48 |
40 |
4060 |
622 |
0.9 mile after DS Shelter |
|
TN91 |
6.5 |
3.0 |
3526 |
-534 |
0.8 after hwy 91 |
||||
|
Iron Mountain Shelter |
11.2 |
4.7 |
Thur PM |
7.7 |
50 |
41 |
4137 |
611 |
1.4 before shelter & 0.2 after |
|
Vandeventer Shelter |
18 |
6.8 |
Fri PM |
6.8 |
61 |
42 |
3491 |
-646 |
1.7 miles south |
|
US-321 – Hampton, TN |
27.1 |
9.1 |
Sat Exit |
9.1 |
61 |
34 |
2069 |
-1422 |
|
|
27.1 |
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Watersource info here: |
http://www.wikitrail.org/features/view/at/25213/double-springs-shelter |
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From Home to Boots Off Hostel & Campground |
233 miles |
3 hrs 37 mins |
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From Boots Off Hostel to Low Gap Trailhead |
30.5 miles |
44 mins |
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Other Info: |
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TN-91 to Lowgap Trailhead |
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/appalachian-trail-tn-91-to-low-gap |
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Sermon Notes: 11/18 – Christmas Prep – First Child
Scripture Reading: Luke 3:1-4 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
OP— — One family’s bright display of Christmas cheer at their Connecticut home has courted controversy this holiday season, after dozens of neighbors complained in a petition that the traffic the twinkling exhibition attracts creates “public safety and nuisance concerns.”
Mary Halliwell of Fairfield told ABC News that over the past 18 years, it has become a family tradition to transform their home into what they dub the “Wonderland on Roseville” each year, going all-out with lights and festive decorations.
This year, Halliwell said they employed over 350,000 Christmas lights to illuminate their home and yard, saying that some days the display attracts thousands of visitors. Halliwell said that they also use the Wonderland on Roseville to raise funds for Shriners Hospital for Children. The crowds this year caused neighbors to submit a petition that garnered 45 signatures to local authorities, calling on the town’s leaders and police to do something about the “significant public safety and nuisance concerns caused by the excessive volume of traffic the event creates in our neighborhood.”
https://abcnews.go.com/US/familys-massive-christmas-lights-display-courts-controversy-connecticut/story?id=51447602
WELCOME: To Central Church of Christ, a people gathered to show God’s love, Tell God’s Story, and Be God’s Family. Today we begin a new sermon series that will take us through the next four Sundays. We’re calling it, Christmas Preparation. The scripture journey we take over the next few weeks will help you prepare not for Christmas, but for the coming of the Christ.
“it seemed good to me … to write an orderly account for you.” Luke 1:3.
In the book of Malachi God declared “Behold, I send my messenger, and he will PREPARE THE WAY before me.” Malachi 3:1
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘PREPARE THE WAY of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough places smooth; the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.’” Isaiah 40:3-5
John 1:29 “…John saw Jesus coming towards him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’”
Ralph Waldo Emerson once noted that QUOTE “People only see what they are prepared to see.” People only see what they’re looking for. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/50328-people-only-see-what-they-are-prepared-to-see#:~:text=Quote%20by%20Ralph%20Waldo%20Emerson,they%20are%20prepared%20to%20see.%E2%80%9D
ILLUS: Christian artist Matthew West made a controversial satirical song this year featuring his wife and daughters in the video. He was poking fun at himself for being an overprotective dad. Needless to say, “Modest is hottest” made people mad. In the process, non-Christians said all kinds of vile and evil things about Jesus, the Bible and Christians in general. And many of their comments were just obvious lies… but they didn’t care because THAT was what they were PREPARED to see. They weren’t PREPARED to look for or see Jesus in any of this. They were offended that this song would confront their way of life. Right or wrong, the vile commentors weren’t prepared to see Jesus in the words.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d2D9W_-8Gk
“John the Baptist (preached) ‘REPENT, for the kingdom of heaven is near.’” (Matthew 3:1-2)
Matthew 3:1-3 & 5-8 tells us “In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, “REPENT, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.’”… “YOU BROOD OF VIPERS! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.”
“UNLESS YOU REPENT, you will all likewise PERISH.” Luke 13:3
“you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man’s blood upon US.” Acts 5:28
“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.” Acts 2:38
“Life is short, death is sure. Sin’s the cause, Christ is the cure.”
John’s NAME was God’s idea!!! But why would God bother? Why bother to choose that name? Because the name John means “God Is Gracious.”
https://www.behindthename.com/name/john
English form of Iohannes, the Latin form of the Greek name Ἰωάννης (Ioannes), itself derived from the Hebrew name יוֹחָנָן (Yochanan) meaning “Yahweh is gracious”, from the roots יוֹ (yo) referring to the Hebrew God and חָנַן (chanan) meaning “to be gracious”.
Paul wrote: “For by GRACE you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is THE GIFT OF GOD” Ephesians 2:8
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Thanks Service
Central News: We want to remind you that tonight @ 6:30pm is our “Thanks” service in lieu of our Wed midweek service. Come prepared to give thanks to God in multiple ways for things!
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
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Sermon Notes: 11/21 Detours – Legacy
Hebrews 11:22
Nadin Khoury
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btjinnZzdqk
https://inspiremykids.com/nadin-khoury-from-bullying-victim-to-brave-spokesperson/
“By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave directions concerning his bones.” Hebrews 11:22
- Exodus 13:19 tells us that when Israel left Egypt “Moses took the bones of Joseph with him….”
- Joshua 24:32 we’re told that “As for the bones of Joseph, which the people of Israel brought up from Egypt – they buried them at Shechem, in the piece of land that Jacob bought from the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for a hundred pieces of money. It became an inheritance of the descendants of Joseph.”
- “Joseph sent and summoned Jacob his father and all his kindred, seventy-five persons in all. And Jacob went down into Egypt, and he died, he and our fathers, and they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham had bought for a sum of silver from the sons of Hamor in Shechem.” Acts 7:14-16
“I am about to die, but God will visit you and bring you up out of this land to the land that he swore (promised) to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.” Then Joseph made the sons of Israel swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here.” So Joseph died, being 110 years old. They embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt. Genesis 50:24-26
ILLUS Jewish Graves: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visitation_stones#:~:text=The%20act%20of%20placing%20visitation,placed%20by%20the%20left%20hand.
“Since WE have these promises… let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God” (2 Corinthians 7:1).
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” John 15:19
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.” I Peter 4:12-14
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Psalm 23
. Isaiah 26:3 we’re promised that “(God) will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in Him.”
Deuteronomy 31:8 “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Isaiah 40:29-31 “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Matthew 11:28-29 “Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:31-33
Romans 8:28 carries a step further “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Ephesians 2:10 “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works that He has prepared in advance for us to do”
John 3:16 says… “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
Joseph said “I am about to die, but God will visit you and bring you up out of this land to the land that he swore (promised) to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.” Then Joseph made the sons of Israel swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here.” So Joseph died, being 110 years old. They embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt. Genesis 50:24-26
As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20
“What Shall We Do!!!! And Peter replies: “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. FOR THE PROMISE IS FOR YOU and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” Acts 2:37-39
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Sermon Notes: 11/14 Detours #4
Scripture Reading: Matthew 6:9-15
OPEN (Thomas Edison): On the night of December 9, 1914, Edison Industries was virtually destroyed by fire. Edison lost two million dollars that night and much of his life’s work went up in flames. He was insured for only $238,000, because the buildings had been made of concrete, at that time thought to be fireproof.
(Edison’s son) Charles was 24; Thomas was 67. The young man ran about frantically, trying to find his father. Finally he came upon him, standing near the fire, his face ruddy in the glow, his white hair blown by the December winds.
“My heart ached for him,” Charles Edison said. “he was 67 – no longer a young man – and everything was going up in flames.”
He spotted me. ’Charles,’ he shouted, ’where’s your mother?’
1 don’t know, Dad,’ I said.
’Find her. Bring her here. She will never see anything like this again as long as she lives.’”
The next morning, walking about the charred embers of all his hopes and dreams, Edison said,
“There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew
Three weeks after the fire, his firm delivered the first phonograph.
https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/butterworth-on-disappointment/
https://www.business2community.com/strategy/the-great-value-of-disaster-0160198
WELCOME: DETOURS – Welcome to week four of Detours with Joseph: If you’re new with us, joseph is a big deal in the bible first book genesis (he get’s more scripture time than any Genesis hero) and we’re looking at his life because joseph he took a lot of detours in life. Some of you are on a detour right now; it could be financial or relational or just in your spiritual journey. The problem with detours is sometimes you just feel stuck and joseph’s life gives us a model of how to come out the other side of the detour better than when we went in. So if you’re new to us welcome to Central, i hope you have a great Biblical experience. If you’re new watching online, We hope you have a spiritual experience connecting with God’s Word and we hope to see you soon here at the building for worship together. We’re going to be in genesis chapter 45. Now last three weeks we were in genesis chapter 37, 39, & 41 and I shared from Joseph’s life a few big truths,
- Detours can be caused by a) our bad choices, b) other people’s sin, c) God’s divine hand
- God uses detours for our development
- God often uses detours to take us to somewhere better.
- That Meekness & Humility are window tint that help us see detours for what God intends them to be.
- Open to Genesis 45, but before we get there, let’s get back to Edison’s concept that is better than the light bulb.
For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God – Romans 3:23
Poem by: Louisa Fletcher
“I wish there were some wonderful place
Called the Land of Beginning Again
Where all our mistakes, and all our heartaches
And all our selfish griefs
Could be cast like a shabby old coat at the door
And never be put on again”
https://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/index.php%3Fdate=2013%252F05%252F10.html
“When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, ‘What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?’” Genesis 50:15
Genesis 45:5-8 “… do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will not be plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.
“So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.”
“When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, ‘What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?’” Genesis 50:15
He drafted a letter explaining his decision and its biblical basis and sent 17 debt-canceling letters by certified mail.
SIXTEEN of the 17 letters were returned, unsigned and undelivered.
Why? Because the clients refused to sign for them and open the envelopes. They were afraid that the attorney was suing them for their debts. So – in their fear – they ended up running away from his forgiveness. (Rick McCarley, https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon-illustrations/7400/forgive-us-our-debts-by-rick-mccarley, Preacher at Crosspoint Church in Osawatomie, south of Kansis city. )
………………………………………………. % forgive………….. % not forgive
Told lies about them ……………………… 73 ……………………….24
Stole money from them ………………….67………………………..31
Slapped or punched them…………………64………………………..32
Held them up with a gun…………………..42………………………..54
Murdered someone in community……..33…………………………59
Raped them……………………………………22………………………..73
Raped a family member……………………19………………………..77
(Time 4/5/99 p. 58 Yankelovich Partners Inc. Survey)
http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,22227,00.html
“Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs.” Proverbs 10:12
“For God so LOVED the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever would believe in Him might not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
“… love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” – Ephesians 4:32-5:2
Romans 8:28 “…we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
“… do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will not be plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. “So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.” – Genesis 45:5-8
Genesis 50:20 – As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20
CLOSE: There’s a book, “An Invitation to Healing” by Lynda Elliott and in that book Lynda writes this:
“I had a choice to make. If I choose to behold Jesus, to focus on Him, I could be transformed into His image (to become like our teacher). Likewise, if I continued to behold the image of my neighbor, I could be transformed into her image.”
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Growth Group Devo Thought #1d
If you’re a Christian, you’re called to be a light in the world. But what does that even mean in today’s context? Well, it’s actually not as complicated as you might think. You see, spreading joy is actually part of being a light. Which means, every time we choose to extend positivity rather than negativity, every time we give of ourselves selflessly, and every time we choose to see the best in someone, we’re spreading joy. It’s easy to see— through the news and through social media—that the world around us is in desperate need of joy. By spreading joy, you’re being a light in the world and pointing others to the refreshing, lasting joy that only God can provide. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Just as you’re called to pour into other people by spreading God’s love, you should also surround yourself with people who can fill you back up.
Today, ask yourself these two questions:
- Whose life can you bring light and joy to?
- Who in your life brings you joy and refreshment?
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Growth Group Devo Thought #1c
When we choose to put our trust in God, we’re assuming a posture of vulnerability, and that feeling oftentimes makes us uncomfortable. The world tells us we can control almost anything in our lives if we try hard enough, which makes trusting God go against our very nature as humans. But there’s a reason why God calls us to “be still and know” that He is God (Psalm 46:10 NIV). He’s reminding us that, in reality, we can’t actually control all of the variables in our lives—but He can. Be careful not to fall into the trap of supposed self-sufficiency. Instead, choose to give God control—even in the small things. One way to build your trust muscle is to recall the times God has come through for you—the times He’s helped you, protected you, or answered your prayers. As we learn to put our trust in Him, we’ll be more likely to notice God at work in our lives. And when we see God at work, our faith will increase—and so will our joy.
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Devo Thought #1b Growth Groups –
the temporary happiness we fi nd in things and experiences throughout our day. Joy goes much deeper than that, and ultimately, it’s a Kingdom matter. But how do you tell the difference between true joy and temporary happiness? Take an inventory of the things in your life that delight you and then ask yourself these questions: Are they things God would be excited about? Are they things that give you energy or deplete your energy? Are they things that hurt you or benefit you in the long run? Do you feel at peace afterwards? Today, ask God to show you what lasting joy looks like, beyond what is temporary.
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Devo Thought #1a – Growth Groups
If you find yourself constantly thinking, “If only would happen, then I’d be happy,” you’re heading down a road paved with discontentment and disappointment. Here’s why: Most of the time, the things we think will make us happy and fulfill the desires of our hearts are one-dimensional and short-sighted. If we truly got what we wanted at the time, we’d likely fi nd ourselves unhappy with the outcome down the road. The truth is, we can only see so far—it’s God who has the bird’s-eye view. So instead of focusing on the things you want right now, God encourages us to delight in who He is. And who is He? He’s the Creator of all things, including the hopes, desires, and aspirations we all have inside of us. He’s the ultimate Provider, willing and able to exceed our expectations. This week, rest in His promises and find comfort in knowing His plan is far greater than any plans we could come up with for ourselves. Take time to thank God for His power and ask Him to shift your focus toward Him.
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Sermon Notes: 11/07 – Detours & Tinted Windows
Genesis 41:1-49
WELCOME: Welcome to week two of Detours with Joseph: If you’re new with us, joseph is a big deal in the bible first book genesis (he get’s more scripture time than any Genesis hero) and we’re looking at his life because joseph he took a lot of detours in life. Some of you are on a detour right now; it could be financial or relational or just in your spiritual journey. The problem with detours is sometimes you just feel stuck and joseph’s life gives us a model of how to come out the other side of the detour better than when we went in. So if you’re new to us welcome to Central, i hope you have a great Biblical experience. If you’re new watching online, look i get it i yelp restaurants before i go to the restaurant, so hope to see you soon here at the building for worship together. We’re going to be in genesis chapter 41. Now last two weeks we were in genesis chapter 37 & 39 and I shared from Joseph’s life a few big truths,
REVIEW: New Definition of Detour: A change in our plans God uses to develop our character and competency, so we can arrive at a better destination.
- Detours can be caused by a) our bad choices, b) other people’s sin, c) God’s divine hand
- God uses detours for our development
- God often uses detours to take us to somewhere better.
GOD CARE’S FOR US DURING DETOURS: God is never far from us. He never allows us to remain to stay on the detour longer than we can stand. And when we have gone through the twists and the turns of live avoiding the temptations along the way, God will have brought us to a better destination.
Numbers 12:3 “… Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” KJV
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” Mt 11:29
“Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the Earth”
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33
So he says I cannot do it but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” Genesis 41:16
Genesis 41:39-44 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you.
You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.”
So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt.”
Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his finger and put it on Joseph’s finger. He dressed him in robes of fine linen and put a gold chain around his neck. He had him ride in a chariot as his second-in-command, and men shouted before him, “Make way!” Thus he put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt.
Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I am Pharaoh, but without your word no one will lift hand or foot in all Egypt.”
1 Peter 1:13-16
Therefore, preparing your minds for action,[b] and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
A few years ago, Denzel Washington was interviewed by a major magazine and one of the questions was this:
“How do you deal with fame?”
And he replied: “It ain’t about me. The one thing for me, understanding how I understand God, is that it keeps me humble. Keeps the pronouns out of the picture. I’ve been given certain abilities, and I look at it this way: What are you going to do with what you have? Who are you going to live your life for?
https://www.christianpost.com/news/10-powerful-christian-celebrities-in-hollywood.html
GENESIS 50:20 – As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. Genesis 50:20
Who Will Follow Jesus?
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Daylight Savings Ends
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Sermon notes: 10/31 Detours with Joseph
“Daddy’s Money” by Ricochet
“She’s got her daddy’s money, her momma’s good looks.
More laughs than a stack of comic books.
A wild imagination, a college education.
Add it all up it’s a deadly combination.
She’s a good bass fisher. A dynomite kisser.
Country as a turnip green.
She’s got her daddy’s money. Her momma’s good looks, and look who’s looking at me!”
WELCOME: Welcome to week two of Detours with Joseph: If you’re new with us, joseph is a big deal in the bible first book genesis (he get’s more scripture time than any Genesis hero) and we’re looking at his life because joseph he took a lot of detours in life. Some of you are on a detour right now; it could be financial or relational or just in your spiritual journey. The problem with detours is sometimes you just feel stuck and joseph’s life gives us a model of how to come out the other side of the detour better than when we went in. So if you’re new to us welcome to Central, i hope you have a great Biblical experience. If you’re new watching online, look i get it i yelp restaurants before i go to the restaurant, so hope to see you soon here at the building for worship together. We’re going to be in genesis chapter 39. Now last week we were in genesis chapter 37 and I shared from Joseph’s life a few big truths,
REVIEW: New Definition of Detour: A change in our plans God uses to develop our character and competency, so we can arrive at a better destination.
- Detours can be caused by a) our bad choices, b) other people’s sin, c) God’s divine hand
- God uses detours for our development
- God often uses detours to take us to somewhere better.
“What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? Come, let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all (pause) he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.” Genesis 37:26-27
“The LORD was with Joseph”
You see it in vss. 2, 21, and 23.
Genesis 39:5 says “From the time (Potiphar) put him in charge of his household and of all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The blessing of the LORD was on everything Potiphar had, both in the house and in the field.”
“The LORD was with (Joseph); he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.” Genesis 39:21-23
“I will never leave you or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5).
“…the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him…” 2 Chronicles 16:9.
Psalm 34:15 assures us that: “The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry”
Romans 8:28 declares: “…we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”
“There’s something suspect about a faith that has never been tested.
An army going through basic training is not ready for battle. Not until soldiers have faced the battle, and been under fire do they consider themselves proven, hardened, worthy.
A ship cannot prove that it has been sturdily built as long as it stays in dry dock. Its hull must get wet; it must face a storm to demonstrate genuine seaworthiness. (Joel C. Oregory, Growing Pains of the Soul
As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. – Genesis 50:20
“The HAMMER is a useful tool. But the nail, if it had feeling and intelligence, could present another side of the story. For the nail knows the hammer only as an opponent a brutal, merciless enemy who lives to pound it into submission, to beat it down out of sight and clinch it into place.
That is the nail’s view of the hammer, and it is accurate except for one thing:
The nail forgets that both it and the hammer are servants of the same workman. Let the nail but remember that the hammer is held by the workman and all resentment toward it will disappear.
The carpenter decides whose head shall be beaten next and what hammer shall be used in the beating.
That is his sovereign right. When the nail has surrendered to the will of the workman and has gotten a little glimpse of his benign plans for its future, it will yield to the hammer without complaint.
The FILE is more painful still, for its business is to bite into the soft metal scraping and eating away the edges till it has shaped the metal to its will.
Yet the file has, in truth, no real will in the matter, but serves another master as the metal also does.
It is the master and not the file that decides how much shall be eaten away. What shape the metal shall take and how long the painful filing shall continue.
Let the metal accept the will of the master and it will not try to dictate when or how it shall be filed.
As for the FURNACE, it is the worst of all. Ruthless and savage, it leaps at every combustible thing that enters it and never relaxes its fury till it has reduced it all to shapeless ashes. All that refuses to burn is melted to a mass of helpless matter, without will or purpose of its own. When everything is melted that will melt and all is burned that will burn then and not till then the furnace calms down and rests from its destructive fury.” (A.W. Tozer “The Root of the Righteous”)
19 As soon as his master heard the words that his wife spoke to him, “This is the way your servant treated me,” his anger was kindled. 20 And Joseph’s master took him and put him into the prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined, and he was there in prison. 21 But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. – Gen 39:19-21
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2016/11/growth-trauma
CLOSE: Country song about an Unpleasant little Detour: Carrie Underwood – Jesus Take the Wheel
She was driving last Friday on her way to Cincinnati on a snow white Christmas Eve
Going home to see her mama and her daddy with the baby in the backseat
Fifty miles to go, and she was running low on faith and gasoline
It’d been a long hard year
She had a lot on her mind, and she didn’t pay attention
She was going way too fast
Before she knew it she was spinning on a thin black sheet of glass
She saw both their lives flash before her eyes
She didn’t even have time to cry
She was so scared
She threw her hands up in the air
Jesus, take the wheel
Take it from my hands
‘Cause I can’t do this on my own
I’m letting go
So give me one more chance
And save me from this road I’m on
Jesus, take the wheel
It was still getting colder when she made it to the shoulder
And the car came to a stop
She cried when she saw that baby in the backseat sleeping like a rock
And for the first time in a long time
She bowed her head to pray
She said, “I’m sorry for the way
I’ve been living my life
I know I’ve got to change
So from now on tonight
Jesus, take the wheel
Take it from my hands
‘Cause I can’t do this on my own
I’m letting go
So give me one more chance
And save me from this road I’m on.”
Oh, Jesus, take the wheel
Oh, I’m letting go
So give me one more chance
Save me from this road I’m on
From this road I’m on
From this road I’m on
Jesus, take the wheel
Oh, take it, take it from me
Oh, why, oh
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lydBPm2KRaU
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Return to Annex & Classes Tonight
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Bulb Blown out
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Growth Group Start Up
Get all the Growth Group info at https://www.christiscentral.org/growth-groups/
Meeting #1: 10/24/2021
Bottom Line: JESUS CAME TO GIVE US A BETTER STORY, NOT A HAPPY STORY.
Focus Scripture: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
Meeting #2: 11/14/2021
Bottom Line: HAPPINESS DEPENDS ON CIRCUMSTANCES.
JOY TRANSCENDS THEM.
Focus Scripture: Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything. 2 Cor 6:10 NLT
Meeting #3: 11/28/2021
Bottom Line: THE PATH TO A BETTER STORY IS RARELY AN EASY PATH.
Focus Scripture: Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
Meeting #4: 12/12/2021
Bottom Line: USING POWER TO SERVE OTHERS IN LOVE CREATES A BETTER STORY FOR EVERYONE, INCLUDING YOU.
Focus Scripture: Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an
example that you should do as I have done for you. John 13:14-15
Meeting #5 & #6: 12/26/2021
Bottom Line: YOUR STORY IS EITHER MOVING TOWARD LOVE OR AWAY FROM IT.
Focus Scripture: The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives;
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Mission Trip to El Salvador
Here is also a Recent Message from our Cuban Family in Christ
“Las herramientas que ustedes dejaron cuando vinieron nos han ayudado mucho. Les estamos muy agradecidos por toda la inversión que hicieron en su viaje, por los equipos y herramientas. También se mantiene la cocina que construyeron. Tenemos otros proyectos así que les esperamos pronto. Dios les bendiga rica y abundantemente.” – Tony Fernandez
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Sermon Notes: 10/17 RR7 – Don’t Try This at Home
WELCOME to CENTRALCHURCH OF CHRIST: Not a place, but a people connected by a common bond of Christ our Savior with a common mission to show HIS love, tell HIS story, and be HIS people! We’re on our last week of an expository sermon series this week that I’m calling the “ROMAN ROAD.” Expository means we learn from the text, and bring out it’s points, rather than topical, which is where we have a point and use the text to support it. So here we are digging in for a while in the beautiful letter to the Romans from Paul.
“…I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, those of my own race, the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory, the covenants, the receiving of the law, the temple worship and the promises. Theirs are the patriarchs, and from them is traced the human ancestry of Christ, who is God over all, forever praised! Amen.” Romans 9:3-5
“Did God reject his people?” (The Jews) Romans 11:1
“Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery?” Romans 11:11
“I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin.” Romans 11:1
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.” Matthew 23:37
“I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal.” Romans 11:4
“Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: ‘Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved.’” Romans 9:27 Quoting Isaiah 10:22
“In that day, I will gather the lame; I will assemble the exiles and those I have brought to grief. I will make the lame a remnant, those driven away a strong nation. The LORD will rule over them in Mount Zion from that day and forever. (Micah 4:6-7)
“And it shall come to pass that whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. For in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be deliverance, as the LORD has said, among the remnant whom the LORD calls.” Joel 2:32
2 Chronicles 16:9 “…the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him…”
“So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.” Romans 11:5
“You will say then, ‘Branches were broken off so that I could be grafted in. Granted. But they were broken off because of unbelief…” Romans 11:19-20a
“And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree, how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!” Romans 11:23-24
“(Israelites) were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either.” Romans 11:20-21
“We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.” Hebrews 2:1
“See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God.” Hebrews 3:12
“… they (Israelites) were broken off because of unbelief, and you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant, but be afraid. For if God did not spare the natural branches, he will not spare you either. Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.” Romans 11:20-23
ROMAN ROAD: That restoration process is listed throughout the book of Romans to bring us toward salvation.
1. The Human Problem (Romans 3:10, Romans 3:23, and Romans 6:23).
The first part of the Romans Road confirms the state of every human as sinful and the state of God as holy.
- “As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one;”(Romans 3:10)
- “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)
After establishing that “all have sinned,” the first half of Romans 6:23 explains the depth of this problem and its consequences.
“For the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23a)
However, the second half of the verse hints at the hope sinners have for salvation through Jesus.
“…but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23b)
2. Humanity’s Hope in Christ (Romans 5:8).
The second part of the Romans Road further explains the hope we have in the love of God expressed through Christ.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
3. The Sinner’s Response (Romans 11:20, Romans 10:9-10, Romans 10:13, Romans 6:3-5).
- Believe in Him – 11:20That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith.
- Repentance of sin Romans 2:3-5 “3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God?4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? “
- Confession of Mouth “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”(Romans 10:9-10)
- “For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’” (Romans 10:13)
- Baptism – “Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. 5 For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection,” (Romans 6:3-5)
- The Result of Salvation 16:25-27 – Strength & Glory.
Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages 26 but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— 27 to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.
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Sermon Notes: 10/10 RR6: The Gratitude Attitude
WELCOME to CENTRALCHURCH OF CHRIST: Not a place, but a people connected by a common bond of Christ our Savior with a common mission to show HIS love, tell HIS story, and be HIS people! We’re on week 6 of an expository sermon series this week that I’m calling the “ROMAN ROAD.” Expository means we learn from the text, and bring out it’s points, rather than topical, which is where we have a point and use the text to support it. So here we are digging in for a while in the beautiful letter to the Romans from Paul. I’m thankful for Patrick and Joelah filling in for me while I invested time with my family in the Harding Lectureships and visiting God’s natural beauty around the country.
ILLUS HAYDEN: For example, the great classical composer Joseph Hayden, was criticized because his church music was too cheerful (and you thought “contemporary music” was a tough sell).
He replied: “I cannot help it. I give forth what is in me. When I think of the Divine Being, my heart is so full of joy that the notes fly off as from a spindle. And as I have a cheerful heart, He will forgive me if I serve Him cheerfully.”
Romans 7:25a “THANKS BE TO GOD— through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
“But THANKS BE TO GOD that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted.” Romans 6:17
“Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.
When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But THANKS BE TO GOD! He gives us the victory (over death and the grave) through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:51-57
ILLUS PAUL IN PRISON: This legend tells of a wealthy merchant who had traveled to Rome to find this preacher he’d heard so much about. In his search, the merchant found Timothy… and Timothy arranged a visit.
At the time, Paul was a prisoner in Rome. Stepping inside the cell, the merchant was surprised to find a rather old man, physically frail, but whose serenity and magnetism challenged the visitor. They talked for hours.
Finally the merchant left and outside the prison, he asked Timothy “What is the secret of this man’s power? I have never seen anything like it before.”
Did you not guess?” replied Timothy. “Paul is in love.”
The merchant looked bewildered. “In Love?”
“Yes,” the missionary answered, “Paul is in love with Jesus Christ.”
The merchant looked even more bewildered. “That’s it. That’s all?”
Timothy smiled and then replied, “Sir, that is everything.”
https://sermons.faithlife.com/sermons/25819-paul-the-apostle-in-love
“Two men owed money to a certain moneylender. One owed him five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
Simon replies “I suppose the one who owed the greater debt.”
”You are correct” says Jesus
Then Jesus turned to the woman and said
“Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven— for she loved much.
But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” Luke 7:36-47
Romans 7:25 Paul says “THANKS BE TO GOD— through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
“Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” Ac 22:16
“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners— of whom I am the worst.” 1 Timothy 1:15
“But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.” 1Timothy 1:16
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Mt 6:19-20
“What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?
Thanks be to God— through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.” Romans 7:24 – 8:2
In a moment, we’re going to sing the song TRUST and OBEY. The hymn was inspired in 1886 when the composer of the music, Daniel B. Towner (1850-1919), was the music leader during one of Dwight L. Moody’s famous revivals
“We were in Brockton, Massachusetts, and I had the pleasure of leading singing. One night a young man rose in a testimony meeting and said, ‘I am not quite sure—but I am going to trust, and I am going to obey.’ I just jotted that sentence down, and sent it with a little story to the Rev. J. H. Sammis. He wrote the hymn, and the tune was born.”
Invitation: If you are thankful for the salvation that Jesus brings, if you are saying along with me, “Thanks be to God!” Then the next move after thankfulness is trusting and obeying.
“Trust and obey—for there’s no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
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Ministry Meeting on 10/10
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Harding Streaming
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Sermon notes: 9/19 RR3: Proper Burial
WELCOME to CENTRALCHURCH OF CHRIST: Not a place, but a people connected by a common bond of Christ our Savior with a common mission to show HIS love, tell HIS story, and be HIS people! We’re on week 3 of an expository sermon series this week that I’m calling the “ROMAN ROAD.” Expository means we learn from the text, and bring out it’s points, rather than topical, which is where we have a point and use the text to support it. So here we are digging in for a while in the beautiful letter to the Romans from Paul. The first week we saw in Romans 1 about Creation that God is there and he really cares for us! Last week in Romans 3 we gained a more full understanding of the nature of &&&Justifying Grace in Salvation. This week, Romans 6 connects us to a very poignant image concerning God’s saving Grace.
Romans 6:3-4“.. don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his DEATH?
Romans 6:2 says “…We DIED to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”
Romans 6:6 says “For we know that our old self was CRUCIFIED with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin”
Colossians 3:3 “For you DIED, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.”
2 Timothy 2:11 “Here is a trustworthy saying: If we DIED with him, we will also live with him”
John 3:23 tells us – “Now John (the Baptist) also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was PLENTY OF WATER…”
“… both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.” Acts 8:38-39
DIDACHE***Chapter 7. Concerning Baptism
And concerning baptism, baptize this way: Having first said all these things, baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19 in living water. But if you have not living water, baptize into other water; and if you can not in cold, in warm.
https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0714.htm
Romans 6:4
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
****Acts 16:26-33 tells us
“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody’s chains came loose.
The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!”
The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.
He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved— you and your household.”
Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house.
AT THAT HOUR OF THE NIGHT the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his family were baptized.”
***ANCIENT WORDS: For the first 1500 years of the church’s existence everybody taught that baptism was part of the salvation act. Every early church leader who talked about baptism taught this.
- Justin Martyr (A.D. 110-165) said “We have learned from the apostles this reason” for baptism: “in order that we… may obtain in the water the remission of sins” (First Apology, 61).
- Tertullian (A.D. 145-220) said, “Happy is our sacrament of water, in that, by washing away the sins of our early blindness, we are set free and admitted into eternal life” (On Baptism iii). Also “The act of baptism… is carnal, in that we are plunged in water, but the effect is spiritual, in that we are freed from sins” (ibid., vii).
- Cyril of Jerusalem (A.D. 315-386) said, “When going down… into the water, think not of the bare element, but look for salvation by the power of the Holy Ghost” (Catechetical Lectures III:4).
“baptized into Christ (you have) clothed yourselves with Christ.” Galatians 3:27
- 1 Peter 3:21 says “and this water (Noah’s Flood) symbolizes baptism that now saves you also— not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience towards God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
That’s what Colossians 2:12 that says “having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him THROUGH YOUR FAITH in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.
Mark 16:16: “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
To m
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Sermon Notes: 9/12 Roman Road 2 – What’s So Great About Grace?
The Law can be funny sometimes can’t it! The following is a list of police comments that reportedly were taken from actual police car videos where police arrested various law-breakers:
- One officer told a man who was complaining about how tight the handcuffs were by saying: “Relax; the handcuffs are tight because they’re new. They’ll stretch out after you wear them awhile.”
- Another criminal looked like he was going to run: “If you run, you’ll only go to jail tired.”
- A drunk was pulled over and asked a series of questions ending with this one: “Was Mickey Mouse a cat or a dog?”
- “No, sir, we don’t have quotas anymore. We used to have quotas, but now we’re allowed to write as many tickets as we want.”
- “I’m glad to hear the Chief of Police is a good personal friend of yours. At least you know someone who can post your bail.”
- “You didn’t think we give pretty women tickets? You’re right, we don’t. Sign here.”
- “Warning? You want a warning? O.K., I’m warning you not to do that again or I’ll give you another ticket.”
https://www.heartlight.org/articles/200605/20060527_warningtickets.html
Romans 6:23 tells us of that penalty: “…the wages of sin is death…”
“All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” Romans 3:23
“So that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.” (Rom3:19)
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,” – Ephesians 2:8
This distinction is starkly demonstrated by comparing a parable taught by Jesus with a similar story found in Buddhist literature. Both stories involve sons who became rebellious and left home, but who then saw the error of their ways and decided to come back and be reconciled with their families.
In the Buddhist story, the errant son is required to work off the penalty for his past misdeeds by spending years as a slave.
But you know how the Christian parable of the Prodigal Son ends — with the repentant son being warmly welcomed home by his loving father and being given UNDESERVED GRACE.
https://www.comparativereligion.com/prodigal.html
“… justified freely by his GRACE” (vs. 24)
“… because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions— it is by GRACE you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4-5
Romans 3:24. “… are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Heb 2:14-15 – “Since the children have flesh and blood, (Jesus) too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death— that is, the devil— and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death.”
- In 1963 someone created a movie which told the story of Camelot among King Arthur, Guinevere, & Lancelot.
Mordred (who hated his father and wanted to destroy everything Arthur held dear) gleefully declares:
“Arthur! What a magnificent dilemma!
Let her die, your life is over;
Let her live, your life’s a fraud.
Which will it be, Arthur?
Do you kill the queen or kill the law?”
“Well, you’re human after all, aren’t you Arthur? Human and helpless.”
https://www.sermoncentral.com/sermon-illustrations/6607/tale-of-two-kings-by-sermon-central
When nothing else could help, not even the Law, Love Lifted Us.
Love lifted me,
Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me;
Love lifted me,
Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me.
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Sermon Notes: 9/5 Roman Road1
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? Psalm 8:3-4
WELCOME to CENTRAL CHURCH OF CHRIST: Not a place, but a people connected by a common bond of Christ our Savior with a common mission to show HIS love, tell HIS story, and be HIS people! We’re beginning a new expository sermon series this week that I’m calling the “ROMAN ROAD.” Expository means we learn from the text, and bring out it’s points, rather than topical, which is where we have a point and use the text to support it. So here we are digging in for a while in the beautiful letter to the Romans from Paul. I learned that there is this “Roman Road to Salvation” that has been preached & taught in religious circles today, but it seems more like a cherry picking of verses. We want to walk through Paul’s words and see what God’s Holy Spirit inspired him to say to believers. And so he starts with Creation:
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? Psalm 8:3-4
Psalm 136
”Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever
to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.
who by his understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.
who spread out the earth upon the waters, His love endures forever.
who made the great lights— His love endures forever.
the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever.
the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever.
“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities— his eternal power and divine nature— have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Romans 1:20
(GOLDILOCKS ZONE)
https://exoplanets.nasa.gov/resources/323/goldilocks-zone/
Back in 1968, Apollo 8 astronaut Bill Anders took pictures of the earth and he noted that “It was the only color we could see in the universe…”
Romans 1:18 “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness”
“They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator— who is forever praised. Amen.” Romans 1:25
One site declared “Enjoy Nutrition as Nature Designed:” – Raw Food Diet
https://www.naturalnews.com/raw_foods.html
Another site proclaimed “Jewelry Designed By Nature”
In another place someone stated “nature designed you to hold as little muscle and as much fat as possible” (that should give us at least good excuse for being overweight!)
https://indexarticles.com/retirement/mens-fitness/ask-the-strongman-2/
But my favorite quote was from the title of a book by an evolutionist at Amazon.com:
***“Moral Minds: How Nature Designed Our Universal Sense of Right and Wrong”.
https://www.amazon.com/Moral-Minds-Nature-Designed-Universal/dp/B001PO6ACW/ref=sr_1_2?
***Back to ROMANS 1:18 – THE WRATH OF GOD – ME & PHOTOGRAPHER PIRACY!
https://www.stockphotosecrets.com/questions-answers/can-i-use-photos-from-facebook.html
“The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities— his eternal power and divine nature— have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Romans 1:18-20
One person said it this way: “Only God is in a position to look down on someone.” Habeeb Akande
https://www.quotes.wiki/only-god-is-in-a-position-to-look-down-upon-som/
“All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23
Paul gives us a whole litany of the sins of people who are
“filled with every kind of wickedness,
They are evil, greedy and depraved.
They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice.
They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful;
they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents;
they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless.
And although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.” – Romans 1:29-32
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.” Romans 1:16
Consider the simple “wooly worm” or caterpillar. (saw my first one yesterday)
https://www.almanac.com/woolly-bear-caterpillars-and-weather-prediction
Isabella Tiger Moth – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrrharctia_isabella
CLOSE: Astronomer Allan Sandage
“It was my science that drove me to the conclusion that the world is much more complicated than can be explained by science. It is only through the supernatural that I can understand the mystery of existence.”
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Wed PM Bible Study in Auditorium
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