“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”         2 Timothy 3:16-17 The authority and reliability of Scripture is established here by nature of being God breathed.  When we gather in small groups to study God’s Word, the work of equipping can occur.  Scripture defines what we are to do through teaching.  Scripture identifies our errors through reproof and calls for repentance from wrong thinking or sinful actions.  Scripture can establish correct action and Godly thinking through correction.  Finally, Scripture calls for a training or repetition…

“And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” 2 Timothy 2:2 We have focused greatly on worship, an evangelistic need to reach a younger demographic, and our unity in moving forward.  A key part that has received little focus is the need for small groups. The younger demographic is highly social and well connected.  Small groups will meet a need and desire, but more importantly it will be a place where others can teach them the Bible.  The more important the Bible becomes to us, the more our life changes to align with…

“And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger,because there was no place for them in the inn.”’” Luke 2:7 I hope today is full of great family memories for you.  However,Christmas is focused on the birth of Jesus. As it was when Jesus was born, so it is today, He is still looking for a place.  The inn had no room for Joseph,Mary, and a new born Jesus.  So often in our lives, we fill them so full of our activities and desires, that we tell Jesus there is no room in our heart or life for You.  We…

“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is He who has been born King of the Jews?  For we saw His star when it rose and have come to worship Him.’” Matthew 2:1-2 It is Christmas Eve and across the nation people will gather in worship services to celebrate the birth of Jesus.  Like the magi they will come to worship Jesus.  But what does it mean to worship a king?  A king is a ruler over a kingdom.  A king wants to be followed and obeyed more than placated…

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.’” Luke 19:10 Jesus’ heartbeat is to search for those who do not know Him and draw them to Himself.  Jesus wants to save the lost and He is actively seeking them.  When our worship,our small groups, and our ministries are focused upon seeking people who need to know Jesus, we are connecting with His desire and heartbeat.  We cannot save the lost, that is a task only Jesus can do,   However, we can cultivate an attitude and desire in our hearts, in our worship, in our classes, and in ministry to be seeking others who need to…

“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself.’” John 12:32 We need to proclaim Jesus, not promote Jesus.  We do not have to convince others to follow Him.  The great promise of Jesus is that He is more than able to draw people to Himself.  Our task is to lift up Jesus.  We must tell the old, old story to a new generation that has yet to hear.  Our lives must sing the story of Jesus, preach the message of Jesus, and reflect what it means to follow Jesus.  As we focus on Him and lift Him up, then He will draw…

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.’” Hebrews 10:24-25 Corporate worship services and small group Bible studies provide an opportunity for the church to gather, to stir up love and good works, and to encourage one another.  Does your worship deposit courage into other believers and encourage them to live for the sake of the gospel this week?  One reason we meet to worship is to encourage one another.  Worship is focused on God,but it benefits…

“Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.’” Matthew 9:38 The U.S. has always been known for sending missionaries to other nations in need of the gospel.  However, the shocking drop in young Christ followers in the U.S. presents an alarming view of the spiritual future of our own country and churches.  The answer is simple; more young people need to come to Jesus.  The need to reach people with the gospel,especially a younger demographic cannot be ignored.  The need for workers has not changed from the days of Jesus. Will you go? Pray: Pray for a stirring in your heart and…

“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.’” Matthew 16:18 Peter’s confession was that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God. It is the foundation of the Church. Salvation is only possible through Jesus and His completed work on the cross.  But the foundation of the Church is the confession of who Jesus is and what He has done, but the church is still His church.  We are not building our church, we are serving to build His Church. Our worship ultimately is about Jesus. Worship is our chance to vocalize our confession…

T“So,whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.’” 1 Corinthians 10:31 The Glory of God is primary.  Worship is not God centered worship if it is not about the Glory of God.  Our lives have little purpose if they are not focused upon the Glory of God.  To do all for the Glory of God drives and directs the church and the life of a follower of Jesus.  Great music will not promote worship if it is not for the Glory of God.  Mission endeavors will fail to produce fruit if it is not for the Glory of God.  The best plans…