We must bring the gospel truth to bear on every area of our life as we are changed by the power of God. The gospel brings to us the life of God. Paul said to the Corinthians, "I gave you birth through the gospel"! And then, after it has regenerated us, it is the instrument of all continual growth and spiritual progress after we are converted. Join us as we look at Christ and his church through the sermons that have been presented by Keith Huntley at the Bellevue Church of Christ.  We use a projector to add emphasis during our sermons, so in person these sermons can mean more to you than just in print. Please come and hear one for yourself!

"7 Last Sayings from the Cross"

Father, Forgive them   The greatest need of the human heart is forgiveness!  Those who realize this and turn to Christ find peace; those who are so caught up ignoring this never find peace.  The politicians like Pilate and Herod never found peace; they were too concerned only with power.  The religious rulers failed to find peace; they were too concerned with position.  The crowds missed it too; they were too concerned for their own comfort.  Between two thieves Jesus expresses the heart and mission of God -- to forgive; do you know His peace and cleansing?

The Family   Christ changes everything!  In Him there is a real family that shares together eternal life.  In Him we become "brothers & sisters" - one family in spite of all other differences.  These new family bonds will exist forever in Christ, welcome to the family, "you're always welcome in God's family!"

Paradise Found!  The two thieves crucified with Jesus represent our choices today:  one chose to die rejecting Christ and went into a godless eternity, the other acknowledged his sins and Jesus as Savior and FOUND PARADISE instead of Hell!  What will be your choice?

Cry of Separation!   When Jesus cried out, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" it was not just the cry of physical pain but the anguish of separation that sin brings between man and God.  Jesus in taking upon Himself our sins felt what we know - separation, "He who knew no sin became sin for us that we might be the righteousness of God in Him"  II Cor. 5:21.  Will you end your separation from God today; Christ made a way for you ... come!

Thirsty Water  He who was "living water" cries out in thirst as He bears our sins, a dryness much deeper than just physical thirst.  Jesus expresses the thirst that goes deep to the soul and is filled only by Christ Himself.  In John 7:38-39 Jesus said, "... if anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.  Whoever believes in me as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him."  If you're thirsty He can satisfy, come and drink!

Shouts of Victory! (sayings 6 &7) Jesus' last two statements from the cross are both shouts of victory, not statements of defeat!  Both were said with a conqueror's voice!  "IT IS FINISHED" in Genesis marked the END OF THE BEGINNING, here at the cross it was the BEGINNING OF THE END, and in Rev. 21:6 it is the END OF THE END and the BEGINNING OF THE NEW BEGINNING!  It is therefore a shout of victory!!  The final cry of Jesus is the cry of confidence, all is well for those who know Christ.  Do you have this confidence?

The "Church’s Stance While Awaiting Christ’s Return" Series

Be Watchful!      Are you just killing time waiting for Jesus to return, or are you really making time productive while watching for His return?  One role of the church awaiting Christ's return is that of a sentry!  We are to be "Watchful" or "On Guard" duty.  We are to understand the days in which we live.  A good guard is alert mentally and disciplined or self-controlled.  The church is moving closer to the day Christ will come ... be on guard saints!  BE WATCHFUL!

Be Respectful!    No business can succeed without mutual love and respect between the leaders and the laborers, neither can the church operate  harmoniously without love and respect between leaders and lay people! "A house divided against itself cannot stand" is the way Jesus stated it! This is true of God's house as well!  God's blessings have rested on His church for many years thanks to the practice of love and respect by both leaders and lay people ... let's not ever take this for granted!

Be Mindful!        As we watch for Christ's return we are reminded not to wait just idly, we are to be always mindful of the ways we are to love one another in God's family.  The church is to love in a real way and not just in a surface way!

Be Joyful!    Christian joy is not so much a feeling as much as it is a fact!  It is a state of mind that realizes God is in control of everything in our lives ... even sorrowful events will yield positive results as God guides those events and us! Therefore we can rejoice always. It is a fact of our relationship to Christ that brings inward joy!

Be Prayerful!      Prayer is far more than just saying words to God with your eyes shut!  It is both the conscious moments of saying prayers with our mouths and the conscious and unconscious communion we have with God throughout the day.  Neither one should be ignored!  Prayer is vital to the believer and the church while it awaits the return of Christ.

Be Thankful!     One of the most productive qualities God desires us to develop is that of "THANKFULNESS!"  It is not so much "Thankfulness" for pain or troubles as much as it is “Thankfulness” for the fruit that will result from such experiences!  God has absolute control over all things so that we can give "thanks" with assurance. MAKE GRATITUDE YOUR ATTITUDE!  It will bless everyone ... you and God!

Be Faithful!       God's final call to the church watching for His Son's return is to be faithful!  We are to be faithful to keep the Spirit's fire burning in the church and in our hearts.  We are to be faithful also to learn what's good ... and then live it as a faithful example, shunning those things that are evil!  BE FAITHFUL SAINTS!.

"7 Churches of Asia"

The Churches, Introduction sermon to series:  God knew each preacher and each Church -- their strengths and weaknesses. The strengths He praised and encouraged them to continue, their weaknesses were addressed and challenged for change. IF they changed and accepted the challenge God promised power, placement, and privilege; punishment was reserved only for the hardest of hearts.  God will keep those who try -- they will triumphantly reign with Christ. Do you have ears and eyes to hear and see?

Ephesus, a Lost Love:   It is possible for both the believer and the Church to be active in God's work and yet be dead spiritually! Life without love is not righteousness, just ritual! JOY is replaced by JOB when God's love is absent in our hearts. Over time, passion can be lost to programs ... we need to renew our first love for God if we hope to escape empty rituals!

Smyrna, Rich Poverty:  An occasional storm can enhance spiritual realities ... grow rich in your poverty!

Pergamum, Sword vs. the Serpent:  The pressures to compromise our faith are all around us! The Church in Pergamum was in a gradual process of becoming "worldly." Unchecked, this process would dim their fire and witness for God. Already, they were tolerating in the Church the teachings of indulgences, it wouldn't be long before the practices followed! Which dir-ection is your life moving in?

Thyatira, Frenzy of Feelings:  This Church had passion, but lacked direction! Zeal without proper knowledge can lead into emotional frenzy. God asked nothing more to those in this Church that had wedded zeal to proper teaching, but warned those who were misguided emotionally! Are your passions correctly focused by the Word of God?

Sardis, Slow Death:  It is never good enough for any Church to exist off the past reputation of men and women of God! A Church must ever keep its vision clear, and its commitment hot! We cannot be God's Church vicariously through the faith and godliness of others! We need a present experience ... and a present commitment to be a present witness!

Philadelphia, a Powerful Church:   This was a small Church with a big heart! Their commitment to God was unbreakable and uncompromising. God's promise to them was for great opportunities and spiritual stability. Their witness one day would be acknowledged by even their enemies! God's final promise to them was to keep them from the tribulation coming upon the whole world!

Laodicea, Mad Enough to Spit:  There is no middle ground between heaven and hell, nor is there between commitment or no commitment to Christ! God's call is to be "hot" or "cold"… to be saved or not saved! There is no category of "sort of saved" or "sort of lost"! God finds warmness unacceptable ... enough to make Him spit!

"Modern Day Look at the 10 Commandments"

Worshipping Wrong Gods in the Right Way:  All too often Israel worshipped the wrong gods in the way they should have worshipped God - with all their being! A healthy society and a healthy soul can only happen when God is the top priority. God does not settle for less than first place in our lives. Is He number one in your life?

Worshipping the Right God in the Wrong Way:  False idols are not only made of wood and stone, they can be formed in our minds too! Whenever God is worshipped as the image in our own minds we are guilty of breaking the 2nd commandment. Your God can be too small when you define Him. Symbols help us understand Him, but we must worship the God that He is and not the one we have made Him to be in our own minds. How big is your God?

What's in a name?       It is not the unbeliever that breaks the 3rd commandment "not to take the Lord's name in vain" - it is Christians who fail to represent God's name properly who then bear His name in vain! If we call ourselves "Christian" then our lifestyle must reflect God's life correctly or we "bear it in vain." Are you breaking the 3rd commandment?

The 'Rest' of the Week:  While the Sabbath was the last day of creation for God, it was man's first day of existence with God. We begin our week with worship and then enter the week with work. God came first! The 4th commandment has 2 parts to it: (1. Worship - Sabbath, and (2. "6 days you will work" - creativity. Man is never fulfilled without both worship and work. A failure to honor both will result in loss. Do you remember the Sabbath to keep it holy?

Honoring and being Honorable:  Just as the 1st commandment sets the stage for everything spiritually in our relationship to our heavenly father, this 1st commandment on the 2nd stone tablet sets the stage for every earthly relationship in our society. If we fail to honor authority in the position of earthly parents we will fail to be honorable as earthly parents! The commandment here promises long life to societies that both honor parents and that have honorable parents. Failure to submit to authority usually results in the inability to exercise it properly later.

The Love of Life:   The seeds of murder are first planted in our hearts as hate and anger. If hate and anger is not confessed and dealt with it produces a wrath that grows stronger and stronger until it seeks to destroy. Since God is the author of life, He not only opposes the taking of life but also the process that leads to murder. He won't accept worship from us if we are not right with others since it is contrary to the LOVE OF LIFE God has.

1+ 1= 1:       While we live in a culture that encourages sexual diversity, the Bible teaches sexual discipline! Sex is not just a physical act, it also has spiritual dynamics to it, thus Jesus said that when a man joins himself with a prostitute they become 'one' - not just in flesh but in spirit also. It is for these reasons that so much spiritual damage is done when sex occurs outside marriage. In God's economy 1+1=1, not 2! Sex can bring great joy when followed God's way, or great pain when we ignore His command. Don't commit adultery - find God's plan for a joyful union!

Cheating Yourself:   Stealing damages relationships between man and man, and between man and God. There are only 3 ways to get things in life (1. By GIFT (2. By WORK and (3. By THEFT. The first two are blessed by God, the third brings a curse on the soul and society. In the end the one most hurt by stealing is yourself! "THOU SHALL NOT STEAL!"

Cheating Others:    The fabric of all healthy relationships is woven with truth. Lying tears this fabric apart and so destroys all trust and confidence in one another. Since "God is truth" we cannot violate truth and still enjoy a relationship with Him also. God help us to bear the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth - so help us God!

Satisfaction Guaranteed: Discontented people by nature are covetous by the very fact of being dissatisfied. Coveters are always in need because they always desire something they don't have but want. Ironically, it is the last commandment that is often at the heart of all the other 9! God calls us to be content so we are controlled and not coveting. Following God's commands brings SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!

"Series on the Parables"

Grounding the Gospel:  The Gospel can only flourish in the person who has prepared their ground properly ... and continue to have a clean environment, uncluttered.  What kind of Christian are you?  Is the Gospel grounded in you, and are you producing fruit?

"Taring" up the Church:  We are either destined for the Father or the Furnace … the Barn or the Burning, it is not so much if you go to church, but why you go!  Are you part of the real kingdom of God or are you taring it up?

Mustard and Lots of Dough:  Though the work of God may begin small and seem unnoticed, it will grow until it impacts the community it exists in ... this is God's will for His church, growth both in quality and quantity.

"Hidden Treasure"        In God's Kingdom we always gain more than we give away ... a great treasure awaits us in His kingdom ... a treasure that's worth more than everything we have!  The Bible is the great treasure map, hid in it is such great wealth!

Dragnet!                       There is coming a dragnet when we will be given a place in eternity, destinations are only two -- Heaven or Hell, what kind of fish are you, worth keeping or throwing away!?

Forgiven Forgivers:         In God's kingdom forgiveness is not an option, it is mandatory -- to be forgiven and to forgive!  God has called us to be forgiven forgivers!

Field Workers:                 In this world you can get the "experience and benefits of a lifetime;" but in God's kingdom you get the "experience and benefits of an eternity!"

Oil Shortage or Oil Glut?     Are you among the wise or foolish, are you preparing for His coming, is your light shining or are you living only for the moment?  Are you experiencing an oil shortage or oil glut?  He is coming again!!!

A Talented Servant:            You can't be God's servant without also being His steward!  To not be one will mean that you cannot be the other!  In whose kingdom are you invested in, God's or this world’s?  The" talented" Christian uses God's blessings ... the wicked servant hides them or uses them for self!

"Dangers  in the Desert"

Doubts and Deliverance:  The journey of faith is full of the struggles of doubt, but also the joys of deliverance. Israel discovered that deliverance came only when they conquered their doubts and fears and trusted in God. The greatest enemy of faith is fear, it leads to doubt which can lead to destruction. The journey through the wilderness can only be peaceful if you trust your guide! DO you trust God for your journey?

Disastrous Discontentment: Not dealing with a bitter or complaining spirit means an ever increasing movement away from faith to an ever increasing desire for the things of this world. Israel's complaining hearts desired more "flesh" and less and less "Spirit". The end result was loss and no fulfillment. Real contentment is spiritual in nature, and is available to anyone because it is not based on material wealth. How content is your heart?

Insatiable Impatience:    Many of the great sins start off with impatience. Adam and Eve wanted quickly to be like God, Abraham and Sarah tried quickly to come up with the promised son, the Devil even tried to tempt Jesus to quickly turn stones to bread in the desert so He could satisfy immediately his hunger. We need to learn to conquer impatience too - "they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…!" Isa. 40:31

Ruinous Rebellion:  When Israel's life was governed by faith great things happened, when it was taken over by fear they discovered great losses. Fear not only keeps us from God's best, it introduces us to this world's worst realities. Israel's second mistake was to only regret her sins rather than repent of them. This changed nothing and their losses continued. Trust in God and obey, for there is no other way!

"The Journey of Faith"

Obedience Stage:     The first and most essential ingredient in "the journey of faith" is obedience to God!  Initial obedience must be followed by continual obedience or we can be "delayed" in Haran on the way to the Promise Land!  Obedience is a principle characteristic of faith not only in the beginning of our walk with God but throughout our lifetime!  How's your journey of faith going!?

Temptation Stage:     Mastering temptation means control over your life!  “Better a … man who controls his temper than one who takes a city.” (Prov. 16:32). Much of the "dross" in our lives can be avoided by not yielding to temptation!  Sin exacts a high price ... and leaves us poorer as a result!  We CAN avoid much of the agony of sin by simply fleeing from temptation ... learning to say NO!

Choosing Stage:      The most basic of choices we make will affect our long term function as a Christian.  Choosing the right things for the right reasons will also affect the everyday vitality of our faith and walk with God!  Each day we must continue to choose the right way and with the right heart!

War Stage:   All Christians are at war!  We are not however fighting against people; we are fighting against "powers and principalities" or “evil!”  Though at times we seem to be losing we must remember we already know the outcome of the war!  We are winners!  Our focus must be on the "PROMISE," not on the power of the enemy!

Communion Stage:    "No man can serve two masters" ... thus said Jesus!  We all face two kings in our lifetime; The King of Kings ... or the King of Chaos!  The choice determines the commitment of our life and resources.  The King of Chaos tries to sell us his "BUY NOW ... PAY LATER" program, while consuming the souls of his victims!  The King of Kings however, asks, "SACRIFICE NOW ... ENJOY FOREVER!"  Don’t sell out cheap, take the "KING OF PEACE'S" offer of communion ... forget the "KING OF EVIL’S" commodities!

Covenant Stage:         When God promised "better savings" He wasn't afraid to put it in writing!  It was ultimately signed, sealed, and delivered in Jesus Christ -- how do you get in on this deal of a lifetime?  The same way Abraham did ... by Faith!

"The 12 Disciples Series"

Peter -- The Impetuous!    Peter is easy to identify with, like so many of us we go from hot to cold in our walk with God, often we are afraid, yet God loves us deeply!  Like Peter, our Lord keeps working with us.  Peter became a great disciple -- and so can you!

Andrew -- The Helper!     Andrew's gift was that of a "middle man!" or “second fiddle.”  He was the helper in the group, acting as a bridge.  He connected his brother Peter to Jesus, and then stayed in the backdrop while Peter grew more prominent than he.  He brought people to Jesus; while the others taught by word he taught by example.  The Church still needs middle men – those who can speak by action and not just words, those who know how to lead others to Jesus Christ!  Are you an “Andrew?”

James -- The Lightning Bolt!   James the "lightning bolt" was the typical "good news-bad news" person.  He was great in drive; a fire drove him to deep commitment and action.  The bad news was the quick trigger he showed for anger, which damaged relationships at times.  Once God's Spirit channeled this "fire" James became one of the great leaders of the early Church.  He died by the sword in AD 44, the second martyr of faith!  Acts 12:1-2.  If you are a "son of thunder" is your anger under the control of God’s Spirit?

Philip -- The Practical!      Philip had strong Greek connections; his name was a Greek name.  Thus, he was deeply influenced by science and Greek philosophy and culture; the Greeks were deeply rational and practical people.  He was the practical one among the disciples, the "show me" disciple!  This created struggles with faith more than with some of the others, but he served faithfully and grew!  The Lord never gave up on Philip, and he won't on you either if you are one of those “practical” saints!

Simon -- The Freedom Fighter!   Simon was a freedom fighter – a zealot!  He wanted God's people free from an ungodly government and so he fought hard against political evil.  However, when he found Jesus he found a different kind of freedom, not political but spiritual!  Now he fought ungodliness in his own heart and he zealously helped others find freedom from sin's dominion through Jesus Christ the Lord!  He remained the "zealot" or freedom fighter, except now he was battling the right enemy!  Have you found real freedom yet?  Are you fighting the right battles?  What are you really zealous for?

Matthew -- The Quick Change!  Matthew desired serious change, but not cash, he wanted character! Jesus offered this wealthy, educated “reject” a chance to really be something – a disciple, to really cash in on something valuable!  For Matthew it was a "quick change" ... he literally walked away from his past and became one of Jesus' most trustworthy followers!  It is never too late for "quick change!"  How about you? 

p.s.  His old name Levi was changed to "Matthew" – it means: "gift of God"

Thomas -- The Pessimist!       Thomas struggled with being a pessimist, often it brought him pain – and certainly lots of doubt, but the Lord loved him and continued to help him grow.  Like many of us Thomas was a mix of good and bad qualities, though negative in his perceptions, he always stayed committed to Christ.  What he missed along the way as a pessimist however was the joy and confidence of his faith, but he did make progress and grow into a positive disciple!  Therefore, there is hope for the worst pessimist among us!

Jude -- The Realist!       Like most realists, Judas (also called Thaddaeus) didn't understand why Jesus didn't just publicly show Himself when He was resurrected, thus proving to the world who He is – the Son of God!  Jesus' answer to him is still true today: He has revealed Himself through His Word, miracles don't make converts, faith in Christ and obedience to God's Word does!

James The Less (Younger) -- An Ordinary Guy!   The greatest work of God's kingdom is done by ordinary unknown believers!  While the world is unaware of their names it will not be unmoved by their service!  God will honor not our fame but our fidelity!  Faithful common service is the foundation of a healthy church and ministry even if you never become famous!  Being “ordinary” is okay and is the hallmark of greatness in God’s eyes!

Nathaniel -- The Good Guy!     While Nathaniel was already a good, decent, honest man, he still was lost without Jesus!  Once he met Jesus he knew that all his good works were not enough, only the Messiah could save him and others.  What do you trust in to get you into heaven?  There's only one sure way in ... Jesus!

John -- The Passionate!       John went from a "Son of thunder" with a passion for self, to a "son of love" with a passion for others!  Being the closest to Jesus he soon not only heard Jesus' heart beat but found Jesus' heart beating in him!  It is impossible to get close to the "God of love" and remain arrogant, hard, angry, and uncaring.  What you draw close to will determine your passion!

Judas -- The Materialist!        Judas is one of the most tragic stories in the Bible, how did it happen?  Believe it or not it all started and ended with a love for silver and gold.  It is not money that corrupts; it is the love of money!  Judas kept his eye on silver and never saw the savior!  What are you looking for to bring you happiness?  Better to find Jesus than jewels!

The Series on the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit Comforts:        One very important role of the Holy Spirit is to come as a comforter!  This means several things, it means "counselor," one who strengthens, who guides or teaches ... one who enables us!  It also means "peace" or comfort, even in the midst of conflict!  The Holy Spirit's presence in our life gives a certain tranquility that the world cannot give, a peace that is birthed of the Spirit, not just peace from conflicts!

The Holy Spirit Intercedes:      It is certain that life is not easy!  Even Christians face crushing experiences; but unlike those in the world we are not alone!  The Holy Spirit is a great intercessor.  There are times when it is hard to pray, or tough to know what to pray for, in such times the Holy Spirit prays through us even if we can't find the words!  His prayers are always answered, they are always correct!  What joy and assurance it can give us to know He intercedes for us! 

The Holy Spirit Teaches:           Without the Holy Spirit we could not clearly understand the true nature of sin or the nature of salvation!  The role of the Holy Spirit as our teacher is critical!  His role is to direct attention to Christ, not Himself.  He reveals the truth about Jesus and salvation so that we might be saved.  The Spirit's role is to make known the Scriptures and God’s plan for salvation ... any work of the Spirit will be deeply rooted in the Word of God.  The Bible is the textbook; the Holy Spirit is the teacher!  What kind of student are you?

The Holy Spirit Empowers:        What is the power of the Holy Spirit?  Is it power to express miraculous manifestations?  No, it is power TO BE witnesses!  The principle power of the Spirit is that of transforming us!  The disciples before Pentecost were weak and wavering, after Pentecost they were a force to be reckoned with!  The Power of the Spirit made them witnesses not just in word but also in character.  The baptism of the Holy Spirit makes me better than me, not necessarily better than others! 

The Holy Spirit Equips:      The Holy Spirit equips us with gifts to bless and benefit the entire church.  The gifts are not given for personal exaltation but for corporate edification!   The gifts are not badges of spiritual superiority; they are practical ways God's Spirit builds up the body of Christ!  The entire purpose of the gifts is to edify or build up the church, not just to tickle our fancy!  There is great diversity within the body of Christ, yet one body!  Thank God He equips us to grow together! So why do most think the gifts have to be miraculous?

The Holy Spirit Loves:        The Bible declares that "God is love," therefore a central attribute of the Holy Spirit is love.  In Galatians 5:22 Paul goes so far as to say "LOVE" is the very fruit of the Holy Spirit!  Nothing the Holy Spirit does therefore is done without love being at the core.  Not even the gifts of the Holy Spirit are useful without love!  The highest work of the Spirit ("the more excellent way" 1 Cor. 12:31b) is that of love. 

The Holy Spirit Overcomes:      The Holy Spirit enables us to be overcomers; He does this by revealing to us the truth about sin, and the truth about Jesus!  The Holy Spirit constantly keeps us focused on Jesus, who He is and what He has done, this makes it possible for us to be overcomers.  The main foundation for this truth is Scripture, authored by the Holy Spirit.  God's Spirit brings the word alive in us and helps us recall it so we can over­come!

The "Beatitudes" Series

The Richest Poverty!      There is a type of poverty that will make a man wealthy and happy. It is only when we realize that we are in abject poverty in the sense of saving ourselves or being spiritual that we can find the joy of salvation. Only when we are empty can God fill our lives. Are you truly "happy?"

The Meaning Of Mourning!    Where there is no sense of sin, there is no sense of salvation! Brokenness over sin is a necessary step to realizing the joy that comes in salvation. As Kingdom citizens, we are not only to be mourning our own sins, but those of this world too! Brokenness moves us to act ... to repent ourselves, and to win the lost. This is what brings in the "blessedness" or happiness! Have you experienced the "blessing" of mourning?

The Power Of Meekness!      "Meekness" is often misunderstood. We think of meekness as someone who is meek and mild, almost sissy like. The original word translated "meekness" however, comes from the Greek word that means, "the wild horse that had become obedient to a bit and bridle." In other words it is "strength under control." There is nothing wimpy about being meek, the strongest people are the meek, and therefore, they will inherit the earth..

The Filling Hunger, The Quenching Thirst!    How can the "hungry" or "thirsty" be pronounced "blessed" or "happy?" In this beatitude Jesus specifies what brings joy to the hungry or thirsty. It is His righteousness! Our spiritual needs or appetites cannot be filled by temporal things, only Christ can fill our hunger and thirst and satisfy it! Righteousness is Christ's righteousness! "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after it FOR THEY WILL BE FILLED!" Are you full? Is your hunger filled, your thirst quenched? Or, is there still a nagging hunger and thirst in your soul? "Come and drink, and eat. Buy without cost." Jesus is waiting to satisfy your hungry and thirsty soul!

Mercy Me!     "Grace" is getting what we don't deserve; "mercy" is NOT getting what we DO deserve! When we deserved Hell because of our sins Christ instead gave us forgiveness and the promise of Heaven. This is both grace and mercy. When others sin against us they too may deserve punishment, but in mercy we give them forgiveness even as God has forgiven us. Those who are FORGIVERS will be FORGIVEN, and those who are not forgivers, will not be forgiven. Are you merciful?

The Ivory Soap Beatitude!         The "pure in heart" are happy and blessed because there is no pollution to be concerned about. The "pure" shall see God because their hearts are "clear" from the contamination of this world. Remember Jesus asking us to pray in our "closet" (6:6)? The world "closet" here is the same exact word translated here (6:19) as "treasure." The closet was the treasure room. To pray here puts one in close contact with their treasures and that is where their heart was! What kind of treasures do you have? How "pure" and happy are you?

Peacemakers, Making Peace!    The United Nation's mission is the job of "peacekeepers," a mission that will fail because of the sinful heart of man. Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers" a mission of peace that can succeed because the goal is to make peace first with God, thus making peace with others possible. External peace can only come when the heart is at peace with God, then it can be with man. Are you at peace? Are you a peacemaker? If you are, you are both "BLESSED & HAPPY"... and also you are called the "children of God."

The Total Difference!       This final beatitude explains the nature of being a kingdom citizen in God's kingdom, and how it will clash with the kingdoms of this world. We can expect persecution! But we can still be "happy" because a great reward awaits us! Until then, we are called to a three-fold ministry: (1) Preservation (salt); (2) Revelation (light); and (3) Demonstration (good deeds.) We are to be TOTALLY DIFFERENT from this world. Christ makes the total difference.

The "Names Of God" Series

Immanuel! - (God With Us)  The greatest revelation of Christ's birth is that He is "IMMANUEL" meaning "GOD WITH US."  If He is for us – and He is with us, who can be against us?  NO ONE or NO THING!  The only reason to fear is if we haven't repented or we aren't trusting God ... stand in forgiveness and faith and you can't lose ... GOD WILL BE WITH YOU!

Jehovah-Olam!    (The Everlasting God)   “To Him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy -- to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! AMEN!”  Jude 24-25

Jehovah-Shalom!    (The Lord is Peace)    Our peace is found in God, not goods!  The world tries to solve problems to bring peace; God saves people to bring peace!  Which would you rather have, peaceful solutions, or peaceful souls? "THE LORD IS PEACE!"  (“Jehovah-Shalom”)

Jehovah-Jireh!   (The Lord Will Provide and The Lord Will See)  We need not worry about our needs in this life if we have put God first; He is a faithful Father who provides for His children!  He is still Jehovah-Jireh!

Jehovah-Shaddai!    (The All Sufficient and All Powerful One)      God alone is Almighty!  He is greater than our problems, than any person, and any plan of man's or of Satan's!  He is the Lord God Almighty!  "Jehovah-Shaddai!"

Jehovah-Tsidkenu!   (The Lord Our Righteousness)   The bible teaches us that Christ is our righteousness, not our works, nor the gifts we possess, nor our friendships with giants of faith, not our positions in the church, it is our relationship to Jesus ... THE “LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS!” (Jehovah-Tsidkenu)

Jehovah-Shammah!   (The Lord Is There)   No matter how alone we feel, or how frustrated we become with trials, how fearful or tearful, the fact remains -- GOD IS THERE!  He will never leave us nor forsake us!  Let this fact rule your life, not your feelings!

Jehovah-Elyon!   (The Lord Most High)      What troubles us most is what we belong to; is it lack of finances, or lack of faith?  Is it absence of goods or absence of God?  What's most high in your heart will be most high in your devotion.  Is God "Jehovah-Elyon" (God Most High) in your heart!?

Jehovah-Nissi!   (The Lord My Banner)   Which banner are you waving before the world, banners of equal rights, of liberation, of no bombs, or some other temporal thing?  These by themselves will never bring a lasting change to the world, only the “Lord our Banner” can do this!  In your life wave before the world the real banner – “Jehovah-Nissi” – THE LORD OUR BANNER!  It is a banner you can march to and live by!

Jehovah-Rapha!    (The Lord That Heals)   God is a God of healing!  There are many kinds of healing, He asks that we ask Him for our healing and then trust in Him to heal in the time and way that will be for our best interest, He will heal us because He is "JEHOVAH-RAPHA" the “Lord that Heals!”

The 7 "I AM" Statements - John Introduces Us to Jesus Series

I Am The True Vine!         Jesus never taught "once cleansed, always cleansed!" What is clear is Christ's call to remain in Him. No branch that fails to produce fruit will remain on the vine. God's goal for His disciples is that they produce fruit. God will go to great lengths to make this so! Is your life fruitful for Him?

I Am The Light Of The World!    Just as there is but one sun to dispel all the earth's darkness, there is but one Son of God that destroys spiritual darkness! As Israel had to continually follow the pillar of FIRE in order to reach the promise land, so must we continue to follow Christ who is the light of the world. Have you embraced the light or are you still living in darkness?

I Am The Bread Of Life!     Like so many today, people in Jesus' day were willing to embrace Him as long as He fed them with material things, but when called to make a sacrificial commitment to Christ, they turned away. There is greater bread to live off of than what you get from the store! It is the bread of life who is the savior. Are you getting the right bread?

I Am The Gate!       Man is always striving for satisfaction and meaning with the goal in mind of happiness. History is full of man's attempts to know God, and finally in Christ the way has been made open! The ultimate security and satisfaction is only found in the single entrance to God, through Jesus Christ who alone is the gate! Have you entered in yet?

I Am The Good Shepherd!       Throughout history there have been those who have led great nations but always in their mind is how they can stay in power and rule over others.  Only one came to sacrifice Himself though He had all power already!  He came to give Himself so that others may live and have power over sin.  Christ is the only “GOOD SHEPHERD”, are you part of His flock?

I Am The Resurrection and Life!   Man's greatest enemy death is defeated by man's greatest friend, Christ! Jesus never conducted a funeral because in His presence death fled! He is the resurrection and the life, so all who are in Him will never die. Is His life in you?

I Am The Way, the Truth, and The Life   Jesus is the only way to the things that matter most in the universe. Fairness is guaranteed by God for all by having but a single path to Him, and it also makes it easier to find Him when there is only one way. Are you going your own way or God's way? It is dangerous to go the wrong way on a one way street!

The "Countdown to Calvary" Series

Last week of Jesus' Earthly life   

Day 1  Day of Demonstration    The crowd in Jesus' day fell into two camps: (1. Those who wanted a glorious monarch. (2. Those who wanted God's Messiah! The first group looked for a king who would do spectacular things like overthrow Rome and take care of all their needs. The second group wanted a Lord who could save them from sin and overthrow the rebellion in their heart. A celebrity commands little to no commitment, but a Christ demands full commitment! What are you looking for? It will show by the kind of commitment you are willing to make!

Day 2 Day of Authority      When Jesus spoke it was often noted that He did so as "one having authority." After Pentecost the disciples spoke as "men who had authority." What created this authority? When what is taught is mirrored by how we live we have real authority, the word "authority" comes from the same root word as "authentic" meaning real or genuine! This is why Jesus had it and the religious leaders did not! Authority is not a position, it comes from performance. Spiritual authority doesn't come from just quoting Scripture, but from living it. Do you have real authority?

Day 3 Day of Conflict           The closer Jesus came to the cross the greater the conflict with this world! To the world the cross represents conflict, it means death to self, powerlessness, laying down your life. To the believer however the cross is the end of conflict with God, our sins are gone, the power of sin no longer destroys us or controls us. As long as we are people of the cross we will have conflict with this world, but we will overcome the world in the end - the cross is not the end, resurrection and eternal life is!

Day 4 Day of Preparation     Why are some Christians unproductive? Too many people just stumble through life. Nothing happened in Jesus' life that was not planned, He carefully planned for everything! This planned life kept Him on course and strong. What are your plans? Have you planned to lead others to Christ or just hope it happens somehow? Power and purpose flow from planning put into practice!

Day 5 Day of Suffering        The cross was no accident! The beauty and power of our freedom from sin is the result of suffering - Jesus' death on the cross! Things of value usually follow sacrifice. Suffering is part of life, and it can be a positive part when viewed as a process for gain. We bear suffering to benefit others, to gain something later, etc. The real question is NOT "will I suffer?" but "what will I do when I suffer?" It will make you bitter or better, which choice will you make?

Day 6  Day of Victory            To this world the tomb is "the end!" The tomb however is NOT the end, it is more a "womb" than a "tomb" - believers shall arise with new life as did our Lord! Jesus left the tomb open after His resurrection to show that death has no power over those who belong to Him. The stone was rolled away NOT to let Jesus out, but to let us in to see that death cannot hold Jesus, nor those who believe in Him! Do you have Jesus' resurrection power in you? You can!

Great Issues of Faith From Elijah's Life

Against the Opposition:       No one said the walk of faith would be easy, but it will be rewarding!  Even if everyone around you ignores God's Word, as an individual you can lay claim to God's best by choosing His ways and His Word.  God always has His eye open even for one obedient servant!  It is possible to serve Him even AGAINST THE OPPOSITION!

Against the Odds:         Sometimes life seems so overwhelming ... the odds seem so against us!  But, it is in these times God's power shines forth the brightest, it is not a time for despair, it is a time of challenge, a time for victory, a time for courage!  Hang in there saints, we will beat the odds!

Against the Oppression:   Even the most faithful servants of God can have times of failure and depression!  At such times God is faithful to love us and nurture us back to spiritual health.  Elijah's recovery included promises of fruitful ministry, he's not alone, and a close friend who is upbeat and full of faith and an encourager comes alongside to help him!  If you're depressed find the right friends, if you know someone depressed, be that right friend!

Against the Obvious:      What made Elijah such an effective leader?  It wasn't his obvious natural abilities; he was flawed like the rest of us!  IT was his determined efforts at seeking God's power, not worldly power.  Elisha proves himself a cut from the same mold and thus continues Elijah’s legacy.  The other sons of the prophets fail to achieve Elijah's success in ministry because they operated from the obvious and therefore missed the realm of the Spirit.  What is the source of your ministry for God?

The "Lord is with You" Series

The Lord is with you...in Evangelism    Jesus said, "I am with you always, to the end of the age!" EVANGELISM WORKS IF WE DO!

The Lord is with you...in Opposition    Though we will face opposition throughout our lives, we won't be crushed! God has given us His promise to be with us at such times

The Lord is with you...in the Battle    Gideon was fearful, his faith was up and down, yet God picked him to win an important battle ... why? 

The Lord is with you...in the Fire       God never promised to keep us from trials of fire but He has promised to be IN them with us!

The Lord is with you...in the Land     Jacob was running scared, unsure of his future, tired, and full of troubles. In this state of mind God reveals to him a great truth often missed by us too.

The Lord is with you...in the Valley of the Shadow of Death  Excellent lesson on the 23rd Psalm

The "Don't be Afraid" Series

Don't be afraid... God Cares                The Bible teaches us that Christ cares deeply for us, and because of this we don't have to be afraid of anything!

Don't be afraid...of God's Transforming power     Peter, James, and John had spent a great deal of time with Jesus, but when He was transfigured before them they were transformed

Don't be afraid...Remember God           What do you do when the voices of discouragement and fear  shout louder than the still small voice of faith?

Don't be afraid... to ask for God's help  Two people found help from God only when their fear of asking for help was replaced by faith!

Don't be afraid... to do the impossible    The only way to do the impossible and not be afraid is to have our focus on God and not on the storms.

Don't be afraid...to honor God               It is not the circumstances of our life that make or break us, it is how we respond to the circumstances in life that make or break us!

The "Courage"  Series

The Courage to Obey Like Abraham      What he was asked to do... WOW

The Courage to persevere like Daniel      And we talk about the patience of Job

The Courage to suffer like Moses            He didn't have to, but he made a choice

The Courage to testify like Paul               Evangelism wasn't an event, it was his lifestyle

The Courage to venture like Peter           Learning to keep your eyes on Christ instead of the storm

The "Rules of the Redeemed" Series

The Money Rule   Sugar and Spice, but not Everything Nice

The Fruitful Rule   God is Seeking spiritual fruit, not religious nuts!

The Golden Rule   How this sets Christianity apart form every other religion

The Judgment Rule  One kind of judgment is good, another bad

The Prayer Rule    Your spiritual life depends upon your prayer life

The Worry Rule    Not a lecture on how a Christian is not supposed to worry, but tips to help you

The "Book of Ruth" Series

Ruth Renouncing   Chapter 1

Ruth Requesting    Chapter 2

Ruth Reaping        Chapter 3

Ruth Rejoicing      Chapter 4

The "GOOD QUESTIONS of the BIBLE" SERIES

Whom shall I send?                          The Lord is still asking this question of us today

Was it really for me that you fasted?  Or did you do it to make yourselves feel good

What's that in your hand?                  Don't wait to get what you already have

What will it profit a man...                 If you already have it all, what do you really have?

Do you understand what I have done for you?   Well, do you?

Do you love me?                              Helping Peter get over his failure

Why are you crying out to me?         If you think YOU got it bad...

The "Stumbling Blocks To Spirituality" Series

Preaching Without Practicing!   One of the toughest tests of Christianity is authentic faith on our part!

Converted To Perverted!         Image and perception are not the ultimate goals, truth is, God’s truth.

Sugar and Spice, But Not Everything Nice!  We need to let God affect our giving and our temperament!

What An Ugly Mug!           God is concerned about our hearts, and not just what we seem to be by our appearance!

White Stones - Dead Bones!   The more someone tries to prove he/she is very spiritual by outward appearances, the more likely he/she is NOT spiritual!

If Only...!   If you say, "IF ONLY..." then be prepared to do what you say, God will hold you to it!

The "Journey of Faith" Series

Obedience Stage!          Learn well the lessons of faith so that we don't make the errors that can be costly to our walk with God.

Temptation Stage!         The biggest challenge of your life will be how you handle temptations!

Choosing Stage!            It is the daily choices that frame much of our happiness or sorrow in life, so learn to choose wisely!

War Stage!                   There are  proper values to fight for that demand our fitness as soldiers of the cross!

Communion Stage!        Know the true value of what you embrace lest you find that there is no value at all in the end

Covenant Stage!            God longs for us to have fellowship with Him

The "Great Escapes" Series

Escape From Bondage!     We can escape the despair by refocusing our experiences on the power/relationship we have in Christ

Escape From Fear!            Fear can severely affect our behavior and our faith in negative ways, but God has provided an escape

Escape From Responsibility!        It is every Christian's responsibility to be reaching the lost for Christ

Escape From Opposition!            Opposition robs us of the spiritual vitality God intends us to have in Him!

Escape From Egypt!    As powerful as sin is over the human race, God has provided a means of escape by His Son Jesus Christ!

Escape From Anger!        The appetite of anger must be disciplined or it leaves a path of destruction in its wake!

Escape From Depression!  Depression can grip the human heart so strongly that the individual loses all sense of balance and perspective  GOD HOWEVER HAS GIVEN WAYS TO ESCAPE THE HORRORS OF DEPRESSION.

Escape From God's Wrath!      God's desire is for all to escape this wrath and He Himself has made that escape possible

Escape From Temptation!        If we are willing, we can ESCAPE FROM TEMPTATION!

The "Forgetting" Series

Forgetting The Failures!  We are free to experience a new life, old sins and painful past events don’t have to rule the present.

Forgetting The Fakes!     The real jewel is the Gospel presented by Jesus and the Bible, everything else is cheap imitations

Forget Self!                     When we receive our new nature in Christ we are to put self last!

Forget The Fads!       Remember the hoola hoop?  How about bell-bottoms? The Bible is still the foundation of faith and must not be ignored or replaced!

Forget Insignificance!     One of Satan’s most effective tools in a rich society is to fill us with so much insignificance that we are too busy for the really important stuff that is eternal

Forget The Old Ways!   We must forget the old ways of our life, to adopt the new life we have in Christ and move forward!

The "Remember" Series

Remember The Day You Came Out Of Egypt!   It was easier getting Israel out of Egypt than it was getting Egypt out of Israel!

Remember My Word!    Our lives must be based on faithful obedience to God’s Word – both to remember it and practice it!

Remember The Sabbath!         The Sabbath was not just about doing nothing, it was about worshipping God!

Remember The Lessons Of Suffering!     Suffering is not a bad thing in the hands of a good God; it sometimes is the instrument of growth, deliverance, and salvation!

Remember Balak And Balaam!       How much of our walk with God is spent trying to bribe God?

Remember The Miracles!                We are less apt to slip away from God if we can recall His faithful help in times past.

Remember Your Creator In The Days Of Your Youth!      The longer a one goes without Christ the less likely he is to find Him.

Remember Forgiveness!           Our worship doesn't mean much to God if we are harboring unforgiveness towards others.

Remember Lot's Wife!             As believers we are not immune from consequences if we make poor choices.

Remember My Faithfulness!    God will move the heavens (and like in Hezekiah’s day … the Earth!) to help His faithful children. 

Remember Me In Heaven!      What you do with Jesus in time will determine in eternity what Jesus will do with you!

Remember Good Examples!   Good examples are important role models for us to learn from and for our children to learn from.

Remember The Poor!             Compassion towards the truly poor of this world is a defining characteristic of having Christ in us.

Remember Perspective!         To see the future through the past will give us a sharper view of the present and the morrow

Misc. Topics

Will your Faith Save you?   Even if you believe in God, is it the type of belief that will save you? Excellent sermon on Grace/Faith/Works

Faces in the Crowd at the Cross   Imagine being there, these people were!

Jason   I know, who was Jason?  Read this sermon!

Walking Amidst the Dinosaurs       I can prove man did; and I've got pictures!

"The 3 Bears"  as Told by the Apostle Paul   A Study in Gal 6

Swift to Hear, Slow to Speak, Slow to Wrath    Don't you wish everybody did?

Baalam's Strange Prayer   Why would he offer such a strange prayer?

The "Tator" Family   Yeah, everybody's got them

Hard Questions of Jonah   Hard questions for us

Foolish Bargains  Garage sale prices, but for what?

Ripping a Page From the Bible, a Sermon on Prayer  If you don't believe it, rip it out of your Bible!

Islam VS. Christianity   A real good background on the origin of Islam

Caleb, one who wholly followed the Lord   An interesting character study

When our Adult Children Disappoint us  What do you do when your kids stop going to church?

Count it all Joy   You gotta be kidding!  Actually, we're not!

Jeroboam - a Powerful Influence  But a powerful influence for what?

The Reforms of Josiah  One of the greatest kings to ever live

Lessons from II Kings 6  The lepers made up their minds to do it, and they did it!

Remember Lot's Wife   Is there such a thing as an insignificant sin?  Which one would it be?

The State of the Dead  Michigan.  Just kidding...

The Woman who Touched Jesus  When all else fails, try Jesus

When it's Time to Quit Praying   Is it ever time to quit praying?  Yes, read about it here

The TRUE Story of David and Goliath  You didn't hear this in Nursery class, but it's all true!

Why was Jesus Born?  It might not be what you think

I Wanna Be Saved Like the Thief on the Cross  If it sounds too good to be true...

What Happened after the Resurrection?  Assuming you believe the resurrection already took place

Alligator Etiquette  Sounds strange, but it's a powerful lesson

David's Mighty Men  Imagine a man that DAVID called mighty!

Elijah vs. the Prophets of Baal  #1 vs. # 2, and it isn't football!

Judas, Time to Make a Choice  Judas made his, no, maybe he didn't

Jonah, Always Running  Running away, running to, running with, make up your mind!

Nehemiah, a Mind to Work  We need to be like this, without the swords

The REAL Thomas  If you think Thomas was a doubter, read this!

There is Death in the Pot  Ah, but the touch of God!

The Lord's Supper  Understanding the sacrifice

Samuel Heard God  How well do we hear him?

Weightier Matters of the Law  Are we like the Pharisees?

The Transformation of John   People can change

Between the Devil and the Deep Red Sea   Does God place us in perilous situations?

To the Unknown God   Can we be too Religious?

How the Christian Dies          How we face death is a good indication of how we lived

New Year's Lesson   When all things new are old again

The Battle is the Lord's     You can't win by yourself, but then, you don't have to

David Strengthened Himself      But he did it in the Lord, se how we can too!

All to Jesus I Surrender       Abraham Really Understood

Was Satan a Fallen Angel?   A must read

The Road to Emmaus      When discouragement gets you down, do what they did

The Conversion of Saul    All I need to know to believe in the authenticity of the scriptures

The Judgment Day          What we know, or at least what we had better know!

Remembering                Remember what God has done for you

Lessons learned at the Cross   Some of the best sermons aren't sermons at all!

The Resurrection of Christ    If our entire faith is based upon this, why don't we talk about it more?

Are you going to heaven?    If the majority other denomination members can answer this, why can't we?

Choosing stage of faith   The idea of choice is more important than we think

Come and rest   Are you tired?

Difficulties of taking too long  Sometimes it's hard to wait on God

Fruity vs. nutty religion   God prefers spiritual fruit over religious nuts

The battle is the Lord's   So why are we trying to fight it alone?

The richest poverty   Being happy and poor in spirit at the same time

The unpardonable sin   What is the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, anyway?

Joseph   The man our Father chose to be the father to his Son

Psalm 23  The Lord is with you in the valley of the shadow of Death