GOD IS SPEAKING CAN YOU HEAR HIM

For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Romans 8:29 NIV https://romans.bible/romans-8-29

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24 NIV https://matthew.bible/matthew-16-24

Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ Matthew 22:37 NIV https://matthew.bible/matthew-22-37

This is what the Lord says: “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord . Jeremiah 17:5 NIV https://jeremiah.bible/jeremiah-17-5

Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.  They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41‭-‬42 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/act.2.41-42.NIV

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 2:1‭-‬4 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/act.2.1-4.NIV

On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.  For John baptized with  water, but in a few days you will be baptized with  the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4‭-‬5 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/act.1.4-5.NIV

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 NIV https://acts.bible/acts-1-8

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19‭-‬20 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.28.19-20.NIV

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?  As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like.  They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.  But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Luke 6:46‭-‬49 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/luk.6.46-49.NIV

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10 NIV https://luke.bible/luke-19-10

He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” John 4:16 NIV https://john.bible/john-4-16

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51 NIV https://john.bible/john-6-51

I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness. John 12:46 NIV https://john.bible/john-12-46

On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:17 NIV https://mark.bible/mark-2-17

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 NIV https://john.bible/john-3-16

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 NIV https://1timothy.bible/1-timothy-1-15

For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. John 6:38 NIV https://john.bible/john-6-38

“I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten— the great locust and the young locust, the other locusts and the locust swarm — my great army that I sent among you.  You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has worked wonders for you; never again will my people be shamed.  Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the Lord your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed.  “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Joel 2:25‭-‬28 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/jol.2.25-28.NIV

My sons have played soccer since they were five. They’ve dabbled in other sports but have consistently competed in travel soccer. We eat, breathe, and live soccer. So, imagine my surprise when my firstborn, Chance, at the beginning of his 7th grade year said, “Mom, I want to play football.” Ummmm…what?! First of all, he’s never played American football. Second, his current stature was of a prepubescent miniature human ranking the smallest in his class. Third, what?! I tried to talk him out of it, but then I realized my role as his mom was to foster a safe environment for him to try things and make decisions on his own. So he enrolled. Two weeks in, he said, “Mom, I hate football. Everyone has been playing since they were little, and I’m not good at it. I want to quit.” I knew this would happen, but you’ll be happy to know I didn’t say that. Instead, I said, “Honey, we’re never good at things on the first try. And honestly, you may never be the best at football. That’s ok.

All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’ ”  When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord , and they anointed David king over Israel.  David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years. In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah thirty-three years. 2 Samuel 5:1‭-‬5 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/2sa.5.1-5.NIV

The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.”  But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.” The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord .’ Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.”  Samuel did what the Lord said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?”  Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord . Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.  When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord ’s anointed stands here before the Lord .”  But the Lord said to Samuel,

This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Yes, this is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the Lord .  This is what the Lord says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you,” decl

In 2011, my family and I moved from Portland to be the Worship Pastor at a church plant in El Paso, Texas. We knew this wouldn’t be permanent, but we soon came to love it there. We found amazing friends and community. We had grown comfortable. However, I could feel God had something new brewing for us. Being in the unknown is uncomfortable for me. I’m a “planner.” If you look at my calendar, you’ll see things scheduled a year, maybe two, out. I wish I was joking. I felt stuck at the fork in the road not knowing what was next. The ever-popular verse, Jeremiah 29:11, says, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." We often miss the context around this verse. This whole passage talks about Israel being in exile for 70 years. Seventy! Only after those 70 years are completed would God’s promise be fulfilled to bring them back from exile. Then, there was a young shepherd boy, David, mentioned in 1 Samue

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. John 15:13‭-‬14 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/jhn.15.13-14.NIV

In the book,  Oh the Places You’ll Go , Dr. Seuss talks about the Waiting Place. It’s a place for people just waiting: Waiting for a train to go or a bus to come, or a plane to go or the mail to come, or the rain to go  or the phone to ring, or the snow to snow or waiting around for a Yes or a No or waiting for their hair to grow. Everyone is just waiting. Waiting. Waiting. Waiting. What happens when it's you that is waiting? Somehow you’ll escape all that waiting and staying.” But what happens when it is you? When you aren’t where you used to be but not yet where you want to be. And you find yourself in a Waiting Place. You may have heard it said, “It’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey.” But what happens when the journey has you stalled?  There is always a process between a promise from God and the fulfillment of that promise. Sometimes the process is short, and other times it’s so long that you may wonder if you heard God correctly in the firs

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.  For whoever wants to save their life  will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.  What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? Matthew 16:24‭-‬26 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.16.24-26.NIV

Jesus and the Coronavirus (Day 23) Pick Up Your Cross and Follow Him Thought  As we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday, let us take one more opportunity today to reflect on the cost of following Jesus. A re-commitment to pursue Jesus and to live as He is calling you to live could be the most constructive thing that you do across this entire season. One of the opportunities within this season of lockdown has been to consider our own ways; to be shaken from our normal routines and our potential complacency in faith and forced to reckon with the question: Am I actually following Jesus? If the corona virus is enough to shake your faith, may I be bold enough to suggest that maybe your faith was in the wrong thing all along. Jesus willingly humbled himself, with all of his divinity, to death on a cross. He laid aside his heavenly privileges, did not demand the rights he was entitled to, and gave up his life so that we could be forgiven, set free and redeemed.

To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21 NIV https://1peter.bible/1-peter-2-21

Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1‭-‬2 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.5.1-2.NIV

Be Imitators of Christ Thought     If you have been keeping up with us, then today is Good Friday. Don’t panic if it’s not Good Friday for you as you read this: The principles still stand! The Easter weekend is one that is filled with both deep sorrow and great celebration for the believer. Sorrow as we pause to consider the Saviour of the Universe hanging in agony on the cross, rejected and crucified by the very ones that He created. Celebration as we are reminded of God’s astonishing sacrificial love for us; his mercy, grace and forgiveness that are on full show in the Resurrection.  The pain of the cross contrasted with the joy of the resurrection is a powerful journey for us to reflect on over the next couple of days. It is a journey that demands a response. While you were dead in your sin, Jesus died to save you and bring you life. You cannot stay the same. So, as the Corona Virus continues to take its toll on the world, let this Easter weekend stir your faith in Chri

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. 1 Peter 4:1‭-‬2 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1pe.4.1-2.NIV

If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them. 2 Peter 2:20‭-‬21 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/2pe.2.20-21.NIV

They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for “people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.” 2 Peter 2:19 NIV https://2peter.bible/2-peter-2-19

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:6‭-‬7 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1pe.1.6-7.NIV

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2‭-‬4 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/jas.1.2-4.NIV

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded.  You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:35‭-‬36 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/heb.10.35-36.NIV

In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 2 Timothy 3:12 NIV https://2timothy.bible/2-timothy-3-12

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:16‭-‬18 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/2co.4.16-18.NIV

Praise our God, all peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard;  he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping.  For you, God, tested us; you refined us like silver.  You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs.  You let people ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. Psalms 66:8‭-‬12 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/psa.66.8-12.NIV

Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord . Deuteronomy 8:2‭-‬3 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/deu.8.2-3.NIV

This goes with what I  just posted before. Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.” Exodus 20:20 NIV https://exodus.bible/exodus-20-20

This comes from the video I just shared. 3 common respones to God in Trails: Give up on God Question God Continue to Trust God But Don't Put God in a Box

and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:15‭-‬17 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/2ti.3.15-17.NIV

And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 1 Thessalonians 2:13 NIV https://1thessalonians.bible/1-thessalonians-2-13

Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. 2 Peter 1:20‭-‬21 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/2pe.1.20-21.NIV

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. Hebrews 1:1‭-‬2 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/heb.1.1-2.NIV

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19‭-‬20 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.28.19-20.NIV

Re-vitalise Your Community Thought     As a result of the primitive church’s devotion to the things that we have been reflecting on over the past days, they had a tangible and practical impact on the communities around them, and many were saved by the powerful message of the Gospel in action.  Indeed, these Spirit-led Christians revitalised life in Greco-Roman cities by providing new norms and new kinds of social relationships able to cope with many of the urgent urban problems of the day. To cities filled with the homeless, impoverished, and strangers, Christians offered an immediate basis for attachments. To cities filled with orphans and widows, Christians provided a new and expanded sense of family. To cities torn by violent ethnic strife, Christians offered a new basis for social solidarity. As the church, we are called to be counter-cultural, bringing answers to many of society’s problems by our tangible and practical demonstrations of Christ’s love. Step out in faith,

if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV https://2chronicles.bible/2-chronicles-7-14

Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.”  After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:29‭-‬31 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/act.4.29-31.NIV

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 NIV https://acts.bible/acts-2-42

Pray Until Something Happens Thought     Charles Spurgeon once said “ I would rather teach one man to pray than ten men to preach ”. Imagine what our church could look like if we all embraced a devotion to prayer. The early disciples knew that prayer was how they could converse with God, and how the teachings they heard went from their head into their hearts and settled there. It can be the same for us. Prayer is powerful. Prayer is intimate. Prayer changes things. Prayer changes us. Any relationship requires communication, and prayer is the gift that God has given to us to commune with Him. In our second passage today, we see how prayer stirred the disciples to share the Gospel. Prayer is not only relational; it is also missional.  It’s easy to feel in times like this, where the need of the world is so obvious, that we shouldn’t come to God in praying for our personal needs. If that’s how you are feeling, be mindful of this today: Our God is the God of the Universe. Not a

So then, when you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat, for when you are eating, some of you go ahead with your own private suppers. As a result, one person remains hungry and another gets drunk. Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter! 1 Corinthians 11:20‭-‬22 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1co.11.20-22.NIV

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 NIV https://acts.bible/acts-2-42

Do Not Neglect Communion Thought     Today’s focus on how the primitive church conducted itself is on communion, a ‘recreation’ of the Lord’s Supper, found in all four Gospels, including Matthew 26:17-30. Communion physically reminds us of Jesus’ saving work as we break and eat bread, signifying his body broken for us, and drink grape juice/wine, signifying his atoning blood poured out for us. Paul harshly rebukes the congregation at the church in Corinth for merely performing the act, rushing through it and forgetting its true purpose. They had become actors instead of participators. This demonstrates what a high a regard Paul and the other church leaders had for Communion. This wasn’t just a common meal that people shared; this was a daily reminder of the very real sacrifice Jesus did for us. You were bought by Jesus at infinite cost because of God’s infinite love for you. Choose today to not be an actor in how you honour God, but a participator.  Action     Cons

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.” Mark 8:38 NIV https://mark.bible/mark-8-38

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Matthew 28:18 NIV https://matthew.bible/matthew-28-18

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Ephesians 6:12 NIV https://ephesians.bible/ephesians-6-12

“If you love me, keep my commands. John 14:15 NIV https://john.bible/john-14-15

So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up Ephesians 4:11‭-‬12 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.4.11-12.NIV

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,  and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19‭-‬20 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.28.19-20.NIV

Belt of Truth - Faithfulness,  Loyalty,  n Integrity. Breast plate of Righteousness  - Doing whats right. Shield of Faith - Relying on the Word of God Gospel of Peace  - Your right relationship with God Helmet of Salvation  - Your safe in the Hands of God Sword of the Spirit  - The Word of God,  Our Sword to Fight with.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 NIV https://2timothy.bible/2-timothy-4-7

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:14‭-‬17 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.6.14-17.NIV

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:6‭-‬8 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/rom.8.6-8.NIV

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:10‭-‬13 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.6.10-13.NIV

And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.  And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.  And all that believed were together, and had all things common;  And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.  And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,  Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved. Acts 2:42‭-‬47 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/act.2.42-47.KJV

Prioritise Fellowship Thought     Today, we will consider the primitive church’s devotion to ‘Fellowship’. The word fellowship in Greek is  koinónia , which refers to an intimate bond that unites people (in this case believers) by joint participation in community. In other words, the early Christians prioritised connection with each other through genuine and authentic relationships. These 5 verses list amazing things that, if we saw today, would leave us awestruck. Miraculous signs, wonders and healings were happening; the needy and poor were fed and clothed; and possessions became blessings for others. What do all these things have in common? They all occurred because the believers “devoted themselves to fellowship”. Just as the early church knew a building was a welcome instrument, but not a requirement, in them being a community of believers who obeyed Jesus’ teachings and demonstrated God’s saving love to others, so can we take a similar attitude. For the foreseeable fut

Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby. Hebrews 12:11 NIV https://bible.com/bible/1/heb.12.11.NIV

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 NIV https://acts.bible/acts-2-42

Listen to the Scripture's Teaching Thought     The primitive church made the living and active word of God the foundation of their community. Today, the Bible must hold similar weight for us. It is our anchor that constantly points us to Jesus.  The early disciples believed, as we do today, that all of the Scriptures (that is, the Bible) are God’s words to us.  As Paul reminds and encourages Timothy in the passage from 2 Timothy, the Bible is not an impersonal and objective rulebook. It’s not there to judge us and declare to us: “you have broken the rules”. Rather, it is a God-breathed runway towards our loving Father. Just as a coach trains an athlete to become better and fitter in their sport, so God, through the Bible, lovingly teaches us to “train in righteousness” so that we can become like Jesus, living exactly as God intended: a full and abundant life. Ultimately, all biblical teaching and correction leads back to one thing: God. The disciples knew this and we

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42 NIV https://acts.bible/acts-2-42

Learn Devotion Thought     The book of Acts provides a stunning narrative insight into the activities of the primitive church. As you read it, you can witness the story of the Gospel message travelling from ‘ Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. ’ One of the foundational passages on how the church conducted itself is the one you have just read. Over the next few days, we will study the application of this in detail. Today’s focus is on the idea of ‘devotion’. It’s an old-fashioned word, but one that is important for us to get our head around. Devotion means a ‘ love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person or activity .’ The early disciples demonstrated all of this for Jesus. They were 100% all in. The depth of their devotion determined their discipline in lifestyle. They filled their lives with the things that would bear spiritual fruit and, as a result, they had an enormous impact on the world. What you are devoted to will determine the frui

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 NIV https://1peter.bible/1-peter-2-9

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 1 Peter 1:1 NIV https://1peter.bible/1-peter-1-1

Be People of a Different Order Thought     As these unsettling and uncertain times continue, with no clear end in sight, we have a continuing opportunity to examine who we are as the church of Jesus Christ. Over the next seven days, we will reflect on scriptural insight into the primitive church (the explosive growth of the church of the 1st and 2nd centuries AD) as we seek to understand our own identity. ‘Ekklesia’, the word that Jesus used to initially describe His ‘Church’ in Matthew 16, was originally a secular term that invoked the idea of a people called aside for a purpose - namely to make political decisions. It was used in the contexts of  like-minded  people gathering together. The first Christians (‘Christian’ means ‘Little Christ’) saw themselves as citizens of a different political order - ‘foreigners’ and ’strangers’ to the state. They had been called out of darkness into light, and were no longer citizens of the kingdom of the world. Instead, they were part of

The Lord is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?  When the wicked advance against me to devour me, it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall.  Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then I will be confident. Psalms 27:1‭-‬3 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/psa.27.1-3.NIV

Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:10 NIV https://romans.bible/romans-13-10

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. John 15:9 NIV https://john.bible/john-15-9

By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35 NIV https://john.bible/john-13-35

Verse 1 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NIV https://isaiah.bible/isaiah-41-10

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. 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 appearing of the glory 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.  These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you. Titus 2:11‭-‬15 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/tit.2.11-15.NIV

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:13‭-‬18 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1th.4.13-18.NIV

“Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth   will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.  And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.   “Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.  Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it  is near, right at the door.  Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.   “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son,   but only the Father.  As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man.  For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark;  and the

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God   ; believe also in me.  My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:1‭-‬3 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/jhn.14.1-3.NIV

Title of Sermon: "The Blessed Hope We Find In Jesus"

Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being. Hebrews 8:1‭-‬2 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/heb.8.1-2.NIV

and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. Ephesians 1:19‭-‬21 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/eph.1.19-21.NIV

Praise the King Thought When Jesus was raised from the dead, he then ascended into the sky and sat on the throne in heaven, where he still sits today.  The throne represents ultimate power and authority.  This means that  all  power and authority in heaven and on earth belongs to Jesus.  We often quote this famous verse from the Book of Revelation that Jesus is "  The King of Kings ". It is time to remember where our ultimate authority comes from. Not a virus, a friend, a job or even church but the One True King.  News flash: Jesus is still ruling and reigning. Action     God is described as our Father and our friend in scripture, but He is also our king. Today, simply praise The King. Whether it's playing some worship music, singing, praying or creating something, let's worship The King through the trial no matter how hard or unnatural it may feel. He reigns!

Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you, Exodus 23:25 NIV https://exodus.bible/exodus-23-25

Expect God's Intervention Thought     We may not fully understand why God appears to heal at some times and not at others, and that’s ok. However, may our lack of understanding never be a reason to stop us  expecting God’s intervention and healing touch. God's character has not changed, and we believe what His word says about Him. He is Jehovah Rapha (Our Healer).  Have you stirred your faith to pray for God's hand to be on someone who has contracted the virus or even, one step further, for the whole epidemic to stop?  How amazing would it be if tomorrow morning we woke up and the news read "Corona Virus suddenly disappears!" and we can respond "It was Our God". Let’s believe big today. For His glory. Action     Take some intentional time today to pray for a divine intervention to miraculously stop the virus in its tracks and proclaim Our God as Healer. If you know someone with symptoms of the virus, why not call them to pray for

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. John 15:7 NIV https://john.bible/john-15-7

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 NIV https://james.bible/james-1-12

Don't Lose Heart Thought In 1606, the Plague hit London. Hard. Life stopped completely.  This included public gatherings including church meetings, sporting events and theatre outings.  During this time, William Shakespeare was becoming an incredibly prolific and well-respected playwright. However, his work and livelihood was suddenly threatened as London theatres closed for 3 years.  He had a choice: Bow down and give up all his hard work or persevere. It was during this time period that he wrote some of his most well-known plays including Macbeth, King Lear and Antony & Cleopatra.  What dream has God placed on your heart regardless of every obstacle you may currently be facing? Action     Write out 3 dreams that you have in your heart, big or small, and pray into them.  Today, no more procrastination. Start the business plan; start to write that book; run the first 5k (as long as you are not self-isolating). Persevere in what you believe God has placed

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 NIV https://romans.bible/romans-8-31 NO EXCUSES! Shouldn't you Rebel

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. Romans 16:20 NIV https://romans.bible/romans-16-20

Losing is not a option! You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4 NIV https://1john.bible/1-john-4-4

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 NIV https://2timothy.bible/2-timothy-1-7

Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:7 NIV https://jeremiah.bible/jeremiah-29-7

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 1 Timothy 2:1‭-‬2 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1ti.2.1-2.NIV

Pray for Your Leaders Thought As a church in this season we have committed to pray at 7pm every day.  It doesn't have to be long or even well-articulated, but it is definitely powerful.  It's an unprecedented, unpredictable and challenging time to lead anything right now let alone an entire country.  More than ever, it's vital we pray for our Government and world leaders regardless of our personal political leanings or ideologies. It's a time for unity not division.  Why don't we start with prayer? And, like Jeremiah 29v7 states, as we pray for our city and nation to prosper, so will we. Action     At 7pm this evening, join with our whole church and pray for our Prime Minister and his government: For wisdom, resource, patience, rest and anything else you feel led to pray for. 

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 NIV https://matthew.bible/matthew-6-33

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23‭-‬24 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1th.5.23-24.NIV

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19‭-‬20 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/mat.28.19-20.NIV

But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat. Nehemiah 4:9 NIV https://nehemiah.bible/nehemiah-4-9

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV https://1corinthians.bible/1-corinthians-6-19

Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7 NIV https://1corinthians.bible/1-corinthians-12-7

From that day on, half of my men did the work, while the other half were equipped with spears, shields, bows and armor. The officers posted themselves behind all the people of Judah who were building the wall. Those who carried materials did their work with one hand and held a weapon in the other, Nehemiah 4:16‭-‬17 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/neh.4.16-17.NIV

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:8‭-‬9 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1pe.5.8-9.NIV

Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:9 NIV https://deuteronomy.bible/deuteronomy-6-9

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV https://2timothy.bible/2-timothy-3-16

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:15‭-‬17 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/1jn.2.15-17.NIV

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile. Romans 1:16 NIV https://romans.bible/romans-1-16

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.  In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:  Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;  rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.  And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!  Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,  that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,  and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:3‭-‬11 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/php.2.3-11.NIV

Remember it's not about You Thought     Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently said, “When this is over, and it will be over – we want to look back on this moment and remember the many small acts of kindness done to us and by us”. It’s a powerful sentiment. As our passage today reminds us, Rishi is not the first to call us to servanthood. If you serve at all within the life of our church, you will know how important it is, not only to our church, but also to the people in our cities and country not involved with our church.  Although we may not be able to serve on a team the way we usually do each Sunday, this is the perfect time to take Jesus' example and serve anyone we possibly can.  Do you know your neighbours? Do you call people other than family and close friends? Do you have the time or resources to be able to volunteer with initiatives in your area? Maybe now is the time! Action Call one person today for longer than 5 minutes and just chat, pray, encourage e

“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.  I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll. Revelation 22:12‭-‬13‭, ‬18‭-‬19 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/rev.22.12-19.NIV

“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Revelation 22:12‭-‬13 NIV https://bible.com/bible/111/rev.22.12-13.NIV