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Sermon Follow Up Video for Feb. 26, 2012 Sermon Series Not Me...But Him!

2012-02-29T22:56:00.001-05:00

Not Me...But Him Sermon Series: Deeper Faith Study

2012-02-28T15:58:00.001-05:00

Topic: Not Me…But Him!

Open: Have you ever had a moment when it hit you, “This is bigger than me?” Explain that moment:

Read: Ephesians 1:3-14; Romans 11:33-36

Discuss:

1. According to Ephesians 1:3-14, what are the ways that you have been blessed by God?

2. Why have you been blessed in this way (verses 6, 12, 14)? What do you find interesting about these statements?

3. Notice the security we have in the Holy Spirit with these blessings (verses 11-14). Why do you think so many Christians allow their faith to be “tossed to and fro” (Eph. 4:14)?

4. How does God being about His own glory, change the perspective of your life? How does this change how you view what you do (Colossians 3:17)?

Pray: Pray that you would not be a glory thief, but a vessel of the glory of God

Memorize/Meditate: 1 Peter 4:11 “…in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen."

Revelation Series - Deeper Faith Study for Feb. 12, 2012

2012-02-14T11:49:00.001-05:00

Topic: Revelation 21-22 – The Beginning!

Open: Share a moment when you received something new. What was it and how did it affect you?

Read: Revelation 21-22

Answer:
1. Will we live in “heaven” forever (21:1)? Why or why not? Will the “new earth” be renovated or destroyed? What does it mean, “there is no longer any sea?” Is this a reference to literal bodies of water or nations and peoples?

2. What will it be like to have God “dwell” among us (21:3)? Why is this mentioned twice in this verse?

3. Can you find the five blessed absences of heaven in 21:22-27?

4. How does Revelation close as it began (22:7; 1:3; cf. 16:5)? Why is this warning and motivation so important?

5. What do you look forward to the most in that day? How have the words of Revelation prepared you for that day?

Pray: Pray that your heart would be prepared for the coming Christ and that the words of Revelation would

Meditate/Memorize: Revelation 21:20 “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!”

Revelation Series - Deeper Faith Study for 2/5/12

2012-02-07T09:17:00.001-05:00

Topic: The Kingdom – Revelation 20

Open:
There is the old expression, “If I only knew then what I know now…” Describe this sentiment in your own life. What would you change? How does the reality of the future kingdom of Christ effect how we should live in the present?

Read: Revelation 20

Discuss:
1. In 20:2-7, “thousand years” is used six times in connection with a number of chronologically interrelated events. Should this be understood literally or figuratively? Why? What are the strengths and weaknesses of each view?

2. Why does God release Satan from the Abyss (20:7)? Are there any reasons implied in the text or the whole of Scriptures? Satan is successful in his attempt to “deceive the nations.” What does this tell us about the nature of man?

3. Who is sitting on the “great white throne” (20:11) What is significant about the adjectives “great” and “white?” What characteristic of God does this throne speak to?

4. How should the reality of judgment affect the way we live today?

Pray: Pray that you would live more kingdom mindedly in society.

Meditate/Memorize: Revelation 20:6 “Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection.”

Deeper Faith - Revelation Series

2012-01-31T17:58:00.000-05:00

Topic: Come and Get it! – Revelation 19

Open: Do you remember your favorite meal as a youth? Maybe it was a meal at your grandmothers house or a birthday meal at home. Take a moment to discuss this. Was it the meal or the experience?
Read: Revelation 19

Discuss:
1. What is the great multitude so excited about (19:6)? What is the “marriage of the Lamb” (19:7)? How does rejoicing and being glad have to do with worship? Is being glad in God the same as worship?

2. What is the “marriage supper of the Lamb” (19:9)? Who is the bride? Who is the groom? Is the invitation to the “marriage supper of the Lamb” for all believers? Why or why not? How does it feel to you to be Jesus’ bride? How do you feel about being the bride of Christ?

3. Describe the appearance of the one riding on a white horse (19:11-17). What difference does the hope of Christ coming make in our everyday lives?

Pray: Pray that you would not only be aware, but ready for this day when we meet Christ. Will you be at the table?

Memorize: Revelation 19:6-7 “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and exult and give Him the glory…”

Revelation Series - Deeper Faith Study

2012-01-12T09:10:00.001-05:00

Topic: The Beginning of the End – Revelation 14-16

Open: Our tendancy is to turn away from pain. Can you describe a painful moment in your life? Where did it lead your life?

Read: Revelation 14-16

Discuss:
1. What is the “eternal gospel” (14:6)? Is this a call to salvation or judgment? How does the angel’s proclamation in 14:7 help you answer these questions? How would you summarize the contents of the angel’s message? Why is the gospel the good news?

2. What does the “harvest of the earth” refer to (14:15)? How did the son of man reap this harvest (14:16)? How ripe do you think the earth is now?

3. Why is this particular sign called “great and marvelous” (15:1)? What does it mean that the “wrath of God is finished?”

4. Why do wicked people refuse to repent this side of eternity (16:11)? Do these people acknowledge God and repent of their deeds in hell? Why or why not? Read Philippians 2:6-11.

Pray:
Pray that even in times of darkness and pain that you would hold onto God’s faithfulness.

Meditate:
Revelation 15:4 “Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For you alone are holy.”

Venture - Prayer and Fasting for 2012

2012-01-02T23:02:00.002-05:00

On Sunday at FCF we took time to look back at the exciting moments of 2011...and looked forward with great anticipation to 2012. If you have been around FCF at all, some of the excitement of 2011 has been plenty evident. But even with a year of great spiritual growth and ministry success, we cannot pause too long... because 2012 is here.

2012 is bringing us some exciting opportunities as a church family. As we mentioned Sunday, plans are in place for expanded facilities, additional campuses in a strategic area, and most importantly, an expanded global reach.

However, planning and strategy can only take us so far. On Sunday, we began the launch of Venture - dedicating the month of January to church wide prayer and fasting. We will be meeting on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm to prepare our hearts for the big plans God has for our church. Obviously, we understand that it will be impossible for everyone to attend...but if you could take a meal, a day, or a week throughout this month to seek the Lord on behalf of these endeavors, it will certainly be a huge part in accomplishing Kingdom sized things.

As I shared my on Sunday, my prayer is that we would have a Hebrews 10 church. A church confident in Christ that leads to 1. Full assurance of faith 2. Unwavering hope 3. Stir one another on with love and good works.

We hope that you will join us!!

Expecting Christ to do, what only He can do!!

Revelation Part Ten Sermon Follow-Up Video

2011-12-16T17:04:00.002-05:00

Revelation Part Nine Sermon Follow-Up Video

2011-12-08T10:44:00.002-05:00

Revelation Part Seven: Sermon Follow-Up Video

2011-11-21T22:07:00.000-05:00

Sermon Follow-Up Video: Revelation Part 4 - Who is Worthy?

2011-11-03T22:26:00.002-04:00

Connecting to the Next Generation Sermon Follow-up Video

2011-10-04T15:15:00.002-04:00

Sermon Follow-Up Video: If I Die Before I Wake Sermon Series - Death

2011-08-25T08:03:00.000-04:00

Quote by D. A. Carson from Sunday's Sermon

2011-08-15T16:41:00.001-04:00

Here is the entire quote by D. A. Carson used on Sunday. This is from his book, For the Love of God: A Daily Companion for Discovering the Riches of God's Word (published in 1998 by Crossway Books).

One of the most striking evidences of sinful human nature lies in the universal propensity for downward drift. In other words, it takes thought, resolve, energy, and effort to bring about reform. In the grace of God, sometimes human beings display such virtues. But where such virtues are absent, the drift is invariably toward compromise, comfort, indiscipline, sliding disobedience, and decay that advances, sometimes at a crawl and sometimes at a gallop, across generations.

People do not drift toward holiness. Apart from grace-driven effort, people do not gravitate toward godliness, prayer, obedience to Scripture, faith, and delight in the Lord. We drift toward compromise and call it tolerance; we drift toward disobedience and call it freedom; we drift toward superstition and call it faith. We cherish the indiscipline of lost self-control and call it relaxation; we slouch toward prayerlessness and delude ourselves into thinking we have escaped legalism; we slide toward godlessness and convince ourselves we have been liberated.

Sermon Follow-up Video: Christ in Us from the What is Salvation? Series

2011-08-13T19:21:00.002-04:00

Sermon Follow-Up Video: Faith

2011-08-06T17:13:00.002-04:00

Sermon Follow-up Video: Turn Around

2011-07-28T01:15:00.000-04:00

Sunday's Sermon Follow-up Video: Grace

2011-07-20T23:51:00.000-04:00

A Pastoral First

2011-07-17T21:47:00.000-04:00

This morning at the conclusion of our second service at FCF we had two families come up to join our church. Each of these families went through the process of church membership and are great families to have for our ministry. Now families joining FCF have been somewhat of a regular occurrence with our growing church...but what happened during that time was a first for me.

As a Pastor, one of things I take pride in is remembering names. While I don't know everyone that comes to our church, I try to remember the names of people I have the privilege of meeting personally, especially ones who are committing with us.

As these couples came up front to be welcomed into our church family, I introduced the first couple. The second couple I had the privilege of meeting at their house on Tuesday. A great young family, three cute kids and just recently committed to helping lead our new Faith Kids Worship Service. As I moved to introduce them...my mind went totally blank...I had forgotten their names!

It was wholly embarrassing and impersonal. In that moment, something I take pride in became humbling. The first thought of course was "this can't be happening to me." Secondly I thought "I certainly am not old enough for this to be happening."

What made this situation more interesting, was the response of the family. I had just preached a message on grace (from our What is Salvation Series). While the theme of the message was on God's grace in salvation, this family exemplified that grace in their response to me.

While I am certain it won't be the last time I forget someone's name, I am certain I will never forget their names now. But in greater ways, I am thankful for new families that are willing to demonstrate grace and Christlikeness...even to their very human Pastor.

Missional...Really?

2011-07-07T14:24:00.002-04:00

The buzz word in today's Christian community is Missional. In books, blogs, and conference sermons, today's Christian leaders are crazy about being missional. It doesn't take much to realize that the word missional comes from the word mission. The roots of this word are found in the idea of being a missionary. Taking the gospel from the church to the community.

But while many Pastors, church leaders, and conference leaders use this word to describe themselves and their ministries, are we really going people or churches? Are we missional or just creative attractional ministries? It seems there are many who can talk the talk of missiology, but few who actually are building churches that are missional in focus...many with missional attitudes but are clearly attractional in nature. What are some characteristics of missional churches?

Certainly, there are things that are missional about attractional values and there are things that are very attractional about missional attitudes. The question really lies are we actually sending people, incarnationally, in the community or are we trying to build an attractional place for the community?

J. Andrew Kirk describes the importance of this idea in his book, Shaped by God's Heart, passions and Practices of missional Churches,

"The Church is by nature missionary to the extent that, if it ceases to be missionary, it has not just failed in one of its tasks, it has ceased being the Church."

Doug Ehrgott with Horizon International makes this beautiful observation concerning missional churches and lives.

“A missional ministry is one based on obedience more than outcomes."

My observation:
Many church leaders are more interested in the statistics of success than they are the impact in the kingdom. Some live in fear of obediently changing...while others are constantly looking for the next model they can adopt to life and ministry. Our call of missional ministry begins with simple obedience to God's call of mission (Matt. 28; Acts 1:8)

Differences and Descriptions of Attractional and Missional Churches:

- Attractional ministries are characterized by a sense that “Professionals” do ministry in a place.
- Missional ministries are characterized by a sense that people do ministry EVERY place

- Attractional ministries are where people come together to worship
- Missional ministries are where worshippers go into the world

- Attractional ministries focus on people coming into the “church” event
- Missional ministries focus on people being the church in the world

- Attractional ministries celebrate people coming in
- Missional ministries celebrate people going out

- Attractional ministries focus on masses seeing Jesus
- Missional ministries focus on masses showing Jesus

- Attractional ministries are about the need of salvation for mankind (man centered)
- Missional ministries are about the reign and glory of God in salvation (God centered)

Truly missional ministries/lives perceive mission as the essence of their existence. It’s not size, growth strategy, or creative ideology. It’s centered on the spread of the gospel to the nations for the glory of God.
So are you living a missional life? Are you leading a missional ministry? Or are you just missional in word…but not in deed.

We are Casey Anthony!

2011-07-06T18:05:00.000-04:00

As most people, I was amazed at the outcome of the Casey Anthony trial. It had seemed that the evidence supported a guilty verdict. Who wouldn’t question how a mother could not report her child missing (supposedly for 31 days) or would lie to police not once or twice, but on four occasions. Why would anyone believe her?

The reality is none of us know the truth behind the case…were the jurors persuaded by her defense? Or was it the difficulty facing the prosecution to layout the evidence? Or was it the evidence itself that didn’t add up? Except for Casey Anthony, her daughter Caylee, and the Lord, no one knows what really happened. We can speculate…but we truly don’t know.

In fact yesterday, I was in the checkout line at Walmart when the cashier proceeded to tell me why she thought Casey was guilty. Obviously, any person that has followed the case wants justice. In fact, we yearn for a world of justice (except when it’s concerning ourselves). Solomon’s desire for justice led him to these statements, “I saw something else on earth: In the place of justice, there was wickedness, and in the place of fairness, there was wickedness. I thought to myself, “God will judge both the righteous and the wicked; for there is an appropriate time for every activity, and there is a time of judgment for every deed. “ (Ecclesiastes 3:16-17)

While we will continually see injustices happening in the world, Solomon points out that injustice should lead us to the reality of our own humble state. One day both the righteous and the wicked will be judged. Everyone will stand before the ultimate judge, Christ.

See we have much in common with Casey Anthony…we are guilty of sin before a Holy God. We can try to cover it up, hide it, or deny it, but the evidence is clear…guilt is our verdict (Romans 3:23). However, our Judge offers mercy...not injustice. See injustice means that the guilty go unpunished. But our guilt was punished by our Substitute, Christ on the cross. He took our death penalty…and through faith in Him, stands as our competent lawyer before the Judge. While the evidence leads to clear guilt, the verdict is in, NOT GUILTY!

"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." 1 John 1:8-2:2

Easter Pressure

2011-04-20T23:51:00.000-04:00

This Sunday, Easter Sunday, many Pastors will be feeling the pressure to deliver a sermon that will reach the masses, and hopefully bring people back. The idea is that many visitors will be present on holidays like Christmas and Easter that otherwise would not be. So if the Pastor hits a home-run, people will come back the next week, and more likely, stay long-term.

Obviously, this isn't quite accurate. In fact, Lifeway Research has found (see article linked at bottom) that most churches only get their occassional attenders (those who attend one or two times per month) on Easter Sunday instead of the visitors that many think are there. So the Easter crowd...is actually filled with unfaithful church attenders. Certainly a great holiday for everyone to show up.

As a Pastor, I believe our job is to be faithful to the Word... regardless of who's there. Using gimics to get people will only necessitate more to keep them. How you get people is how you will have to keep people. If Christ is the focus, and His Word the motivation, then transformation will be the result.

So Pastors...don't put pressure on yourself. Preach the risen Christ and let Christ do His resurection work in the lives of the people who enter your church's doors. Call everyone to deeper commitments.

For a great article on CEO (Christmas/Easter Only) Christians by Thom Rainer click here

Haiti: The End

2011-04-01T19:34:00.000-04:00

Haiti Missions Team Friday:

It's hard to believe that the end is near. It has been an amazing week of ministry and service for the gospel. God has indeed blessed in abundance the work through the team. It has been an absolute honor to serve the people of Haiti.

Today was a day to tour the city of Port-au-Prince and spend some time of relaxation. Though I must be honest, this day may have only increased the effect on our lives.

We were able to go to the heart of Port-au-Prince and see the major devastion caused by the earthquake. There are tent cities (or refugee camps) all over the place. Mind you 1.5 million people lost their home during the quake. With no where to go people have been given tents by foreign governments (most from the US) to live in any space they can find. Even the collapsed Presidential Palace (seen on the left), can barely be noticed by the thousands of tents just outside it's gates.

But the moment that grips us to tears, even now if I think about it long enough, was going to the poorest area of the city. When Pastor Luc said that we were going to the poorest area I thought, "Could it get any worse?" Wow...were we shocked to see the area. There are literally 100,000 people in this area that live in tents or tin houses. Trash was everywhere...the stench was unbearable...and people were depressed beyond despair. We were choked up just driving through. We stopped along the side of the road and was able to visit a church that Pastor Luc started in this area. The church is known less for the worship, than it is for the location near the major source of food for these poor people. Just to the side of the church building, people were making mud cookies. Yes...you heard that right...mud cookies. Mud, salt, and butter. We watched these people making thousands of cookies out of mud (you can see some of the work on the right). And this was seen as a luxury.

We honestly felt bad for even going there. We felt we embarrased these people. I mean I always heard the joke, "God made dirt and dirt don't hurt!" Except for these people... it is what they eat for breakfast, or lunch, or dinner. The reality is the only thing that are norms in this are malnutrition and death.

In spite of the difficulty of work, and the burden of the task, the team has had an absolutely fantastic time together laughing and talking about life and Christ. As we were sitting at dinner tonight (at the compound), we were having this exact discussion. We came to serve the people of Haiti...but in the process, we became a band of brothers. I know that may sound cliche, but seriously, this has been an amazing opportunity to build into the lives of each other. Each part of the team added greatly to God's plan on this trip. And to each of them I say, "Thank you!"

Honestly, we are ready to come home...but definitely changed because of it. We will never look at rice and beans...or cookies the same again. Our faith has been challenged and built. We have been broken at times and encouraged greatly at times. We came to Haiti to be the hands and feet of Christ...we leave Haiti having seen Christ.

Moving Piles in Haiti!

2011-03-31T22:49:00.000-04:00

Haiti Missions Team Update for Thursday:

Another scorching day in Haiti. High 90's with a blistering sun. Another day of work on Pastor Luc St. Felix's church. With the roof being done, we were sequested behind the church to make concrete for the walls of the church. If you have ever made concrete in a foreign country (or your old enough to remember a pre-machinery country) you know how difficult it can be. They take a pile of rocks and sift it, not once, but twice. The first time to get the small peices...the second to get the refined sand. This meant we had to move piles of rocks...not once, not twice, but three times until it was mixed with concrete, which of course was mixed by hand. We then carried the buckets into the church so it could be "slapped" on the walls. Amazing, difficult process.

We were able to get everything set up at the church for them to finish the concrete in the building. It is a beautiful building, especially by Haiti's standards. It will eventually be able to hold up to 800 people. If you have never met Pastor Luc...that man will fill that building. He has a great passion to reach the lost of Haiti. It is such privilege to be a part of not only what the Lord is doing in Hagerstown...but the influence that we can have around the world. Here in Haiti...that impact is profound. We look forward to future trips and deeper relationships.

The highlight of the day was the service tonight. I always am profoundly amazed when the Lord puts the worship service together in a very pointed way. Our preaching actually began before we left for the service at the church. One of the guests at the compound is from Holland. He and a team are here working to help the Haitian people rebuild their country. As we were sitting at dinner with our Bibles we began to have a conversation about the reality of God, specifically the existence of Christ. What an opportunity to share the gospel with someone from Europe. Unfortunately, the conversation confirms the feeling of sadness I have felt about Europe. Europe truly has become a post-Christian region...where even the idea of Christ's existence comes into question. And to think that he attends a church in Holland. A church where Christ isn't seen as real. Can you imagine? A well educated man, but lacking greatly in understanding. We weren't only able to share Christ, but also to give him some proofs in regards to the truth of Christ. I praise the Lord for a great apologetics ministry (TruthBomb Apologetics) at FCF. Much of what has been learned was able to be used. Please pray for Johann...that he would be willing to research truth and not just give into a humanistic philosophy with no basis of reality.

The worship service was phenomenal. We were able to sing Amazing Grace together (I know you might laugh at that if you know any of us :-) We are actually thinking about starting our own band...The Missionstrippers). Rick Everett, Richard Heller, and Mike McNamee all shared their testimonies. It was amazing how the Lord worked each testimony to build on each other and allow the church to hear a clear presentation of the gospel. I was then able to preach from Hebrews 4...reminding them about Jesus our High Priest. The entire service the people were very intent on what was being said and many comments were made about the challenge that they heard.

Following the service, on our way back to the compound, Pastor Luc said that the people listened intently to what we shared...that there was hunger for the teaching that was given. Let me be straight...this was a huge encouragement to me. It would be easy to get bunches of people to make a decision and tell you the stats. Many Pastors and church leaders do this. But tonight, the people were taught the Word of God (through both testimony and message) in an accurate way...and they loved it. They were challenged...yet not manipulated...and God moved piles of lives. I can't tell you the altar was packed...that would be too easy. But people's idea of Christ was transformed. Transformation mission...that's the call of the church.

Raising the Roof in Haiti

2011-03-30T22:19:00.000-04:00

Haiti Mission Team Wednesday Update:

Well it's official! Pastor Luc St. Felix's church building has a roof! It was such a blessing to see the finishing piece go on the roof. The work ethic of the Haitian people is amazing...especially when it comes to their church. Clearly, they didn't need us to build anything. But the greatest blessing was working with them. Learning how to use minimal tools to do great work. Rick Everett was instrumental in getting the roof on. He actually spent hours with the roofers today. In fact, without Rick, the roof would have probably been lacking structural ability.

The rest of us mixed concrete and moved piles of stone around. All of us tried to put the concrete on the cinderblock walls...only Richard Heller had the ability to sling the cement on the wall with the Haitians (the rest of us got more on us than on the wall...I guess you could say we never got hired for the job :-).

Most of us have had a little taste of the stomach sickness. Nothing that hasn't been overcome. Today was more difficult than expected due to the intense heat and force of the sun. Even with sunscreen...we fulfilled our Tristate area reputation of becoming "red necks" :-). It's amazing to think that it's snowing at home.

We did have a minor accident. Chad Vaughn stepped on a nail while carrying concrete. All the way through his shoe. Thankfully, after a short surgery, he is doing ok (this is a joke...he didn't have surgery, but is doing fine) :-).

After returning to our guest house this evening, we decided to journey to the local market place. It was an eye opening experience to see their lives from their perspective. The poverty is huge. Walking through the marketplace confirmed this with great imagery. The food looked horrible and rotten...the people depressed. The only smile we could find was when Brian Hoffman bartered for a pair of sandals (Brian is a master at bartering). It was a huge reminder, not that these people have great need, nor we have abundance, but that the darkness of a life without Christ leaves emptiness. A huge diachotomy for sure. Seeing children and churches with smiles as big as the sea praising Christ with all of their hearts, not for what they don't have, but for what they have spiritually...to people depressed in their work with nothing to praise in life. That's Haiti! Great want...Great need!

"If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice!" David Livingstone

From Haiti...with Love!

2011-03-29T23:18:00.001-04:00

Our FCF team has been in Haiti for the last three days. It has been an amazing opportunity to see the Lord at work...not only in the lives of the Haitian people but our lives as well. Here is a quick update of what we have done thus far:

Sunday: We arrived in Port-au-Prince after a tiring morning of travel (we met at 3:15 am...thank you Lyle Dixon for being insane enough to take us to the airport). We were able to make it to Haiti in time to join Pastor Luc St. Felix's church in Port-au-Prince. As a supporting church, it is amazing to see the work that this man has done...not only rebuilding his church after the earthquake a year ago January, but planting 44 churches throughout Haiti. This man has a huge heart for his country.

We were able to introduce ourselves to the church and I had the privilege of preaching a message of salvation. The people were very receptive and responded well to the message. Obviously, the Lord knows hearts...but there were quite a few who accepted Christ. Praise the Lord!!

Monday: We traveled 3 hours to two remote villages in the mountains of Haiti (near the Dominican Republic border). We were able to share many supplies and goods to these churches, schools, and feeding centers, thanks to the many who gathered items for these children. They thoroughly enjoyed the soccer balls and clearly had skills we could not match. It was amazing to see churches in very remote places absolutely filled with people because these churches are sharing the gospel in their own communities.

It was a great joy to share, not just one meal, but two meals with the Pastors of each of these churches. But the thing that stood out most was the joyful singing of these dear children. Something of which I have never heard before. They sing as if Christ was right there. I know this may sound cliche...but I have had the privilege of being in many different countries...and have never seen worship from children like this.

Tuesday: We traveled 1 1/2 hours to another village...this time in the desert area. While poverty is the norm, this village was extremely impoverished. We were able to give out many more supplies (toothbrushes, toys, and vitamins). Once again the singing was spectacular. It's amazing to think that these children who have absolutely nothings...even meals are a commoditity...sing as if they had everything.

One of the doors that was opened to us was to help people with medical needs. Having Brad Ingram on the trip brings a medical expertise to our mission. Brad was able to check many different people with medical issues. The highlight of which was a man who had two fingers amputated by a motor scooter chain. Understand, there is not a medical facility anywhere close to this village...and if there was it would be virtually impossible to get there by foot. Myself and Chad Vaughn had the privilege of assisting on the procedure of cleaning and giving medicine to this man (I've always wanted to scrub in on a surgery :-).

On Tuesday evening we once again joined Pastor St. Felix's church to serve their people. All seven of us, sang How Great is Our God (not quite my style...rap...but a great song nonetheless :-). Brad, Chad, and Brian Hoffman shared their testimony and I preached a message of encouragement to the church. The guys did a great job ministering to these people...the testimonies powerful...and the songs moving.

So far a great trip...more to come. It has been both humbling and powerful to see God at work. To see smiles over a dum dum lollipop or a dollar store doll...it truly gives a new meaning for contentment. I can see in us the wrestling of these realities. How we view the world...or even more...how we view our world.

The Bible as Novel?

2011-02-18T00:11:00.000-05:00

Once a month there is a gathering of Evangelical Pastors in the Tri-State area (calling ourselves the Evangelical Christian Leaders Network). This is a great time of food, fellowship, and encouragement from other men in the trenches of ministry for the same area. Usually we have a few different guest presenters sharing their ministry or concept. Sometimes a counselor sharing needed skills for counseling, other times it's a Christian School sharing their vision for connection with local churches.

Today was a presentation by representatives from Zondervan Publishing about their new resource called The Story. Their advertisment says, "The Story is an exciting all new church-wide experience that unites and equips participants, as they engage the Bible, reading like a novel as a seamless, compelling story." With the book you can get a plethora of information to use in small groups, Sunday School, children's ministry, and youth ministry. There are even sermons that you can use along with the book.

Let's make sure we understand this...this is a book that reads like a novel but is to help people engage the Bible. While this is definitely an interesting concept, what struck me most was the reason for this book...Bible illiteracy...that people actually aren't reading the Bible. Some find it too difficult, others boring. So this book is supposed to help those people be engaged in the Bible.

But things got difficult for me when local Pastors using The Story curriculum and book started describing their experience. For some it was an "awesome experience watching their church fall in love with The Story." Or "people that would never open their Bibles are now reading The Story." In fact, every Pastor pointed out that they loved the sermons that were based out of The Story curriculum.

I left there totally confused...We actually help Bible illiteracy by giving them a novel? Instead of teaching people how to study the Bible or what actually is in the Bible, we use a novel based "Bible" to make it easier for them to understand. It's like giving a teenager a picture book to read for English class. The way to help Bible illiteracy is to actually teach the Bible. Tell His Story...not preach a novel called The Story.

Please understand, i'm not saying there is anything wrong with creativity and helpful Bible aids. And honestly, I believe Zondervan probably has pure motives behind this book (it was originally tested by Max Lucado and Randy Frazee). In fact I actually love the flow of the topics of the book...it truly is a journey through the story of the Bible. This sounds great as a small group or Sunday School, but using this as a main source of the teaching ministry of the church...I believe lacks greatly. What do you do when you finish the 31 week study? Where do you turn then? Back to the Bible no one understands? Maybe the better option is too actually teach people the Bible. In fact, maybe that's why there's Bible illiteracy...because they aren't learning from the Bible in the first place. Instead we should teach them how to fall in love with the actual Book. Yes, appreciate the novel, but love the Book.

Hebrews Bible Study: Heb. 12 - Friday

2011-02-03T20:54:00.001-05:00

Friday – Fire!

Focus passage: Hebrews 12:29

Read: 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9; 1 Corinthians 3; Malachi 3

My family and I came home the other day to find out that we had no heat…we had run out of oil. Twenty degrees outside, maybe fifty inside, and we had to wait twenty four hours to get the oil delivered. Thankfully, we had a working fireplace in our living room and a great deal of wood to burn in our garage. We decided to make it a family campout in the living room. So we started a fire, raised the temperature and bunked out in the living room.

Honestly, I slept horribly. I was so focused on keeping the family warm. I was amazed at how quickly the wood burned in the fire…every 45 minutes another piece had to be added. This of course doesn’t make for a restful night. At one point, I sat there by the fire and watched in amazement that the fire was burning through the wood so rapidly but wasn’t burning the fireplace insert…at that moment it hit me…it all comes down to the substance of the material.

It was a great reminder of the picture painted of Christ in Hebrews 12. God is a consuming fire. A fire that will consume the substance unrelated to Him. What will be burned away and what will remain for His glory?

1. What amazes you most about fire? How does this description paint a clearer picture of the Lord?
2. How does the fact that God is a consuming fire affect your worship?

3. It’s interesting to note the connection between consuming fire and judgment. How does this fit the context of Hebrews 12? Why end this section referencing judgment?

Hebrews Bible Study: Heb. 12 - Thursday

2011-02-02T22:46:00.003-05:00

Thursday – Shaken Not Stirred!

Focus Passage: Hebrews 12:27-28

Read: Isaiah 24; Revelation 6:12-17; Revelation 16:17-19

Probably the most well known earthquake of the last decade was last year’s earthquake in the country of Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. On January 12, 2010 a 7.0 catastrophic magnitude earthquake shook the country and the world. But it didn’t stop there, by the 24th, 52 aftershocks measured 4.5 or greater were recorded. An astounding 3 million people were affected…320,000 died.

One day it won’t just be a country, region, or Hemisphere, Scripture makes clear that the earth will be shaken…but Hebrews reveals that your life will also be shaken. In fact one day everything that can be shaken will be shaken (notice the text includes heaven itself). Why? So that only Christ and His kingdom will remain. So what in our lives will be shaken? What will remain?

1. The writer of Hebrews states that the things that will be shaken will be the things “that are made.” Why that description? What are some of things include in that description?

2. How should the fact that the Kingdom of Christ will not be shaken lead us to acceptable worship, with reverence and awe?

3. How do we offer to God worship, reverence and awe? In what ways could you improve your life of worship?

Hebrews Bible Study: Heb. 12 - Wednesday

2011-02-01T22:06:00.001-05:00

Wednesday – The Heavenly Voice

Focus Passage: Hebrews 12:25-26

Read: Haggai 2:6-9; John 12:44-50

My high school shop teacher commanded and demanded respect. No student questioned or challenged his authority, at least not for long. One of the first things a freshman shop student would hear about was that he had a paddle that hung on the shop wall. It was made from 2” x 4” piece of wood with several one inch round holes drilled through it. As far as I know, he used it only once. He smashed it on a metal welding table, breaking it in two. Someone was acting up and he demanded to have their attention. No one refused to listen to Mr. Willie!

God commands a much greater amount of honor and authority. He warns us not to turn away from Him, His gospel, His gift, His son Jesus. How well do we listen and act upon that voice from heaven? We will not escape if we refuse.

1. What might cause a believer to refuse to listen to God?

2. Why do we find it easier to submit to and listen to a person of authority here on earth?

3. How are you doing in the area of hearing and obeying the voice of God?

A Pastor's Desire

2011-01-31T23:31:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in my office today thinking and praying about what the Lord has been doing at FCF...and considering the exciting things that lie ahead. It's been amazing to see many people responding to the call to walk with deeper faith. It seems there is not a week that goes by without hearing someone say, "Dave, it's so good to not have to be living a religious life anymore...but to be freely serving Christ." Or statments like, "I am really enjoying how God is teaching and growing me right now." Of course, as a Pastor, these statements thrill my heart.

Honestly, FCF is a unique church. While we're contempory with creative elements...we aren't interested in entertainment. We're passionate about the truth of God's Word...and missional in our desire to have an impact in our community. We are not afraid to call people to a deeper walk of faith...yet not legalistic in our approach. We're not identified as young and hip...yet we're not old and dying (in fact our older people are as passionate and excited as our younger). Our church is filled with serious truth-seekers and people who have followed Christ for 50 years. Unique...yet beautiful.

As the Lead Pastor at FCF my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude toward Christ and great wonder as to why He would even use us at all. He is not only the reason we exist as a church, but also the reason we do what we do as a church. Why do we find it important to preach through books of the Bible? Why do we encourage people to be a part of a discovery group? Why do we get involved in community outreach projects and missions trips around the world? Why do we not get overwhelmed with activities that may be well meaning but are pointless to the cause of Christ? Because our desire for FCF is much deeper...

This morning, I couldn't help but to think about the Apostle Paul. Paul was a man who had seen Christ (Acts 9); taken to heaven (2 Corinthians 12); and personally responsible for the spread of the gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth. No doubt, Paul had one of the deepest relationships with Christ of anyone. Yet Paul wasn't satisfied. In Philippians 3, Paul said that His desire was to "know Him." Did you catch that? In fact he said that everything else was merely dung. Here was a man who knew Christ most deeply...who walked with an unrivaled faith in Christ...yet His desire was to detach from the normalcy of life and attach himself to Christ.

With that statement we find the reason FCF exists. Whether new to the faith or a long-time Christ-follower my prayer is that you would have a holy dissatisfaction with your knowledge and faith in Christ and that you, like Paul, woud just want to know Him more.

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 12:18-29 - Monday

2011-01-30T21:55:00.005-05:00

Monday – High Standards

Focus passage: Hebrews 12:18-21

Read: Exodus 19; Romans 4:13-15; Romans 7:4-6

I once worked for a supervisor who a reputation for being hard, harsh, and abrasive. This man set high standards and expected subordinates to meet those standards. His reputation and firm methods created a lot of fear in those who worked for him. Many couldn’t or wouldn’t submit to his kind of authority and left the company. But those who persevered eventually understood why he did what he did.

When God gave the law to Moses it created fear in the Israelites because they knew God required perfect obedience. The consequences for disobedience were frequently severe. Many of the people struggled and didn’t see why God gave them a law they couldn’t fully obey. They didn’t understand that He was pointing the way toward intimate relationship with Him.

1. As Christians, we have not come to a Mount Sinai full of darkness and gloom, yet some are still afraid of God. Why?

2. What gets in the way of our fully accepting the fact that Jesus came to fulfill the law so that we don’t have to?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 12 - Thursday

2011-01-26T15:29:00.000-05:00

Thursday – But I Don’t Want to Practice

Focus Passage: Hebrews 12:9-11

Read: Job 5:17; Job 23:8-12; Proverbs 12:1; Psalm 119: 65-68

I’ve heard it over and over, “But, dad, I don’t want to practice. I just like to play the game!” My son likes sports, but practice…not so much. Why? It’s probably because it can be difficult, with lots of repetition of drills to hone skills and correct and improve technique. In this way each individual, and therefore the whole team, gets better. Games are then more fun and they have a better chance of winning. It takes a coaches firm and continued discipline to make good team.

Like a coach or a father, God disciplines us for our good, our betterment. That good that he desires in us is holiness, to be more like Christ. Like practice, the Lord’s discipline may not be fun, it may be painful, but it will produce good fruit for those trained by it. Since we know this is true, should we not willingly submit to it?

1. In unpleasant times, can you see God moving you along on the journey towards holiness?

2. How can you develop a positive outlook toward God’s training and correction and willingly submit?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 12 - Wednesday

2011-01-25T22:55:00.001-05:00

Wednesday – A Parent’s Discipline
Focus Passage: Hebrews 12:7-8

Read: Proverbs 13:1; John 15:1-4; Revelation 3:19-20

As a father, I’m called to guide, train, correct, and rebuke my son. These are some of my greatest responsibilities and are summed up in discipline. Proverbs 13:24 says that, “…he who loves him (his son) is careful to discipline him.” That includes allowing my son to go through hard times or maybe even putting difficulty in his life on purpose. It can be in these situations that the opportunity for training, correcting, and growth are best found.

Today’s focus passage tells us that when we find hardship in life, it may be God’s discipline – he’s treating us as his son. It’s good to remember what discipline is and that God disciplines those he loves, his children!

1. Think about a time in your life that you’ve been through difficulty or hardship. Did you recognize the possibility that God might be training or correcting something in your life?

2. How can your experiences of being disciplined by your parents or you disciplining your children, help you and encourage you as God trains, instructs, and corrects you in the same way?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 12 - Tuesday

2011-01-23T22:20:00.000-05:00

Tuesday – It’s Not Fair!!

Focus passage: Hebrews 12:5-6

Read: Psalm 66:8-12; Proverbs 3:11-12; 2 Corinthians 4:13-18

If the truth were known, most of us would admit that we don’t like to be disciplined. When we know it’s coming, we murmur under our breath, though it’s probably for our good. Even kids complain that “it’s not fair.” It’s easy to view discipline as a negative. But today’s focus passage from Hebrews reminds us not to make light of the Lord’s discipline (or chastisement) and to be encouraged that God disciplines those He loves.

It would be good to review the meaning of “discipline” or “chastisement.” In our verses today, the Greek word translated as discipline/chastisement means:

– to be instructed or taught; to train or to correct.

With this definition of discipline in mind, light may shed on how we can be encouraged by the discipline of our God.

1. What is your reaction to discipline? Do you try to escape it or do you embrace it?

2. Why do you think God brings up the subject of discipline right after the “faith” chapter – Heb. 11?

3. Looking ahead, how might you respond to the Lord’s discipline differently?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 12 - Monday

2011-01-23T22:16:00.002-05:00

Monday – How Far?

Focus passage: Hebrews 12:3-4

Read: 2 Thessalonians 3:13; Proverbs 3:11; Isaiah 40;
1 Peter 2:18-25

It’s amazing how far people will go when they find themselves in dire situations. Can you imagine the following situation?

Aron Ralston, an American mountain climber and public speaker. He gained fame in May 2003 when, while canyoneering in Utah, a boulder became dislodged, crushing his right forearm and pinning it against the canyon wall. Having not told anyone about his plans to hike, he assumed that death was certain. While surviving on a small amount of water, five days later, as the final attempt to free himself, he amputated his lower right arm with a utility tool. Six hours later he was rescued by helicopter and immediately became a celebrity. The incident is documented in Ralston's 2004 autobiography Between a Rock and a Hard Place, and is the subject of the 2010 film 127 Hours.

What would you have done in a similar situation? Imagine the thought process required to cut off your own arm. The writer of Hebrews is challenging the reader to consider what would be required to live a holy life. How far would you go to get rid of sin? That’s the question asked in Hebrews 12…would you be willing to lose it all to get rid of sin? Christ did!

1. It says to consider Christ who endured greatly. How does His example of endurance encourage your endurance?

2. How does Christ’s sacrifice help us not grow weary or fainthearted?

3. What are you willing to do to get rid of sin in your life? What stops you from doing this?

Glory to God

2010-12-30T09:44:00.002-05:00

The other Sunday we discussed the beauty of the glory of God as revealed by the angels to the shepherd (Glory to God in the Highest). I admit the difficulty of defining glory. Glory is abstract...it's not something we can grab onto. We can define a basketball...it's round about 10 inches in diameter and usually made of rubber. But glory is much more difficult. It's like trying to define beauty. You can't define it but you can describe it. You can't use mere words...you can only describe the detail of beauty.

With the limitation of words in mind we attempt to define glory as the manifestation (or picture) of God's holiness. It gives a glimpse of the perfection of God. Obviously, God has all glory and honor and blessing because He is absolutely holy. Therefore, we can't give him anymore glory...but we can acknowledge that glory through our worship and living. A correct perspective of God's glory always begins with the correct perspective of ourselves (and vice versa). Understanding who God is should show who we are...and understanding who we are should show who He is.

In considering the glory of God...here are some great quotes about the glory of God.

“God… is infinitely the greatest and best of beings. All things else, with regard to worthiness, importance, and excellence, are perfectly as nothing in comparison to him… The ultimate [goal] of God’s works is… the glory of God.”
– Jonathan Edwards

“The Biblical word ‘glory’ is (Heb) kavod [which] means heavy, weighty, significant… The ‘glory of the Lord’ indicates the brilliance that is connected with all God’s virtues and his self-revelation in nature and grace… As an object of loving adoration it is called his [beauty]. As an object of our reverent submission it is called his majesty. As an object of our joyous gratitude it is called his [worthiness].”
– Herman Bavinck

“God’s goal [in all he does] is his glory, but this is easily misunderstood. The glory that is his goal is a two-sided, two-stage relationship. It is a conjunction of a) revelatory acts on his part whereby he shows us his glory, with b) responsive adoration in which we give him glory for what we have seen and received. In this conjunction is realized the fellowship of love for which [we] were made.”
– J.I. Packer

We are all starved for the glory of God, not self. No one goes to the Grand Canyon to increase self-esteem. Why do we go? Because there is greater healing for the soul in beholding splendor than there is in beholding self… The point is this: We were made to know and treasure the glory of God above all things; and when we trade that treasure for images, everything is disordered. The sun of God’s glory was made to shine at the center of the solar system of our soul. And when it does, all the planets of our life are held in their proper orbit. But when the sun is displaced, everything flies apart. The healing of the soul begins by restoring the glory of God to its flaming, all-attracting place at the center.
- John Piper

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 11 - Wednesday

2010-12-14T11:09:00.002-05:00

Wednesday – Desperate Faith!

Focus Passage: Hebrews 11:1-3

Read: Matthew 14:22-33; 1 Peter 1:1-25

I remember it as the worst plane ride ever. While heading to Mexico on a missions trip, our plane got caught in the middle of a fierce storm. The turbulence was throwing the plane all over the place. In fact, there was a great deal of concern that the plane had gotten struck by lightning. Everyone, even the stewardess’ looked very nervous. While sitting there, I kept looking around at the people sitting near me. Some of the passengers were praying, others were pushing back on their seats with all their might. Many were crying. Some of the students with me on the trip were actually repenting like never before. The plane was falling…faith needed raising.

In these types of moments…moments where we have no control, where we really can’t see the outcome, faith is the only thing that we can hold onto. In fact, these moments are usually the biggest faith building moments in life. Faith is the “assurance” and “conviction” of the things we hope for. Our faith should be a glimpse of confidence in the Lord.

1. What role does hope play in our faith? Why does the writer of Hebrews make this connection?

2. What did the “people of old” gain by their faith? What do we gain because of our faith in Christ?

3. Scripture says that faith is not based upon something visible, but something we know to be true in spite of not seeing it (otherwise it wouldn’t be called faith). What makes faith so difficult? Why do people struggle so much with the idea of faith?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 11 - Tuesday

2010-12-14T11:08:00.002-05:00

Tuesday – Stand Firm Then!!

Focus passage: Hebrews 10:32-39

Read: Matthew 10:16-39; 1 Corinthians 16:13; Ephesians 6:13

We’ve all heard about our brothers and sisters in Christ around the globe who suffer and are persecuted because they are Christians. There are the Chinese who are sometimes imprisoned and tortured for teaching the gospel. I read about a preacher in India who goes from village to village sharing the Good News. In between, he hides and sleeps in ditches along the way to avoid angry mobs sent by Hindu medicine men. Iraqi and Afghani Christians live in fear for their lives because militants have attacked several churches and killed those worshipping there. Yet, in the face of this kind of danger, we do not read about these people ever denying Christ. They stand for the Lord and they don’t shrink back. How do they have the courage to do this? Their faith and confidence are strong. They hold firmly to the hope of the promises of God and to Christ himself.

What about us? We’re obviously not persecuted like these Christians, yet we waver so easily. Instead of being bold, sometimes I find myself doing what I can to remain comfortable and to avoid conflict. I might not be “shrinking back,” but I’m certainly not allowing myself to be exposed in those times. The focus passage ought to be an encouragement to us to not throw away our confidence in the Lord and to stand our ground.

1. Have you ever had the opportunity to stand your ground in the face suffering or persecution? Have you stood side by side with someone else?

2. If you have, thank God for the strength. If not, what caused you to “shrink back”?

3. If God is faithful (and He is) and won’t allow you to be in a situation beyond what you can bear with His help (and he won’t), why do you lose your confidence?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 11 - Monday

2010-12-14T11:07:00.002-05:00

Monday – We’re all Rebels!

Focus passage: Hebrews 10:26-31

Read: Exodus 32:1-35; Psalm 94:1-11; Acts 13:38-41; John 3:36

The book of Exodus is a narrative of how God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt and lead them to the promises land. Throughout the journey, God intervened to save them and provide for them. For example, He showed them how to save their first born from the angel of death during the last plague in Egypt, the first Passover. When they left Egypt, the Egyptians gave them gold, silver, and clothing, whatever the Israelites asked for. God parted the Red Sea, sent manna and quail to feed them, made water come from a rock, and helped them defeat the Amalekites. God even showed them how to live in relationship to Him and gave them the tabernacle as a place of worship. But they still disobeyed. Even though they had witnessed their own deliverance and had knowledge of the truth, the Israelites rebelled. At one point they even made a golden calf to worship (Exodus 32). As a result, several thousand died at the hand of God because of their deliberate disobedience.

Most of you reading this have knowledge of the truth and a relationship with Christ. You can testify of God’s faithfulness in your life and the lives of people you know. Yet we still rebel against God sometimes. If we take time to consider our sin, we’ll recognize our own deliberate disobedience. Let our focus passage for today be a warning and inspiration to stand firm against that sin.

1. What sin of deliberate disobedience do you find in your life?

2. How does the idea that you’re “trampling the Son of God underfoot” when you sin, affect you?

3. How will the scripture you read today help you stand against sin?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 10 - Friday

2010-12-09T22:19:00.000-05:00

Friday – Better Relationships

Focus passage: Hebrews 10:23-25

Read: Matthew 5:13-16; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Timothy 6:17-18

Last year, both of my kids had challenges in relationships with classmates. I was pleased with how they handled these hard situations with grace, love, and a firm stand for what’s right and true. They intentionally encouraged others and tried to be a positive influence in their class. At times they were discouraged and frustrated by others. Later they were excited by the prospect of new found friendships. At the end of the year they were each rewarded by their teacher because their character produced fruit in love.

Today’s focus passage exhorts us to act in the same way. Is that not how we in the church should act toward one another, producing fruit in Christ like love? Sometimes our kids get it right more often than we do and their hearts are more joyful and content because of it, too.

1. The writer of Hebrews encourages us to hold on to the “hope we profess”. What hope is he talking about?

2. In the last week, how have you spurred another person to love and to do something good? How can you plan to do that on a continual basis?

3. Encouragement will be a greater need as the day of Christ’s return draws closer. How can you become a better encourager?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 10 - Thursday

2010-12-08T14:59:00.000-05:00

Thursday – Come on in!

Focus Passage: Hebrews 10:19-22

Read: Exodus 36:35-38; Romans 5; John 2:1-2; 3:19-21

Two of the most famous houses in the entire world are also the homes of two of the most powerful world leaders…the White House in Washington D.C. and Number 10 Downing Street in London, England (Home to the British Prime Minister).

One of the most famous features of the 10 Downing Street home is its front door. Uniquely, one of the most viewed doors in all of the UK (and possibly the world) has no keyhole on the outside. It can only be opened from the inside. A police officer is on permanent duty on the other side of the front door…always ready to open it for the Prime Minister or a close associate. You and I can’t just walk up to the front door and walk in. We don’t have that right. We would need secure permission. In fact, not even the guard at the outside of the door can get in without the officer on the inside.

We certainly have no right to walk into the front door of the throne room of heaven. The Prime Minister’s house is one thing…but the home of Christ? No way. Yet Christ has unlocked the door for us. He is beckoning us, “Look what I have done for you…please come in!” With a sincere heart and full confidence of faith we can “enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus.”

1. What advantages do we have with access to “the holy places” compared to the Jews of the Old Testament?

2. How should our standing before God (10:22) affect our confidence in communing with Christ?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 10 - Wednesday

2010-12-07T11:00:00.000-05:00

Wednesday – Done Deal!

Focus Passage: Hebrews 10:1-18

Read: Leviticus 16:6-34; Psalm 40; Isaiah 43-44; Acts 2:33-34

Everyone likes a good deal (especially around Christmas). Years ago I remember wanting to get my wife a gift that she really wanted…a Kitchen Aid Mixer. I didn’t realize how expensive making desserts could be. To ease the pain, I found a coupon online and shopped around for the cheapest price. I ended up getting the mixer for $50 cheaper than sale price in the most well known store. There is great satisfaction when you know you bought something for less than the regular price. But honestly…it’s more than just getting an item for less. A good deal is based on comparison. The fact that I bought the mixer for less than what thousands of other people paid…makes the satisfaction much sweeter.

Consider the deal Christ has made with us. In the Old Testament people were continually making payment for their sinful ways (through the work of Priests). But when Christ came, the deal was finished. Your shopping is done…paid for by our High Priest.

1. Why do you think the writer of Hebrews continues to remind the Hebrews that the Law and rituals were a “shadow of things to come?”

2. What is the significance of the quote from Psalm 40 (10:5-7)? What reason does the writer give for the use of these verses?

3. In what ways to do we fall back into providing “offerings for sins?” How should the reality that Christ “died once for all” motivate us?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 10 - Tuesday

2010-12-07T10:59:00.000-05:00

Tuesday – A Better Life

Focus passage: Hebrews 9:27-28

Read: 2 Samuel 14:14; Isaiah 59:12-21

Recently my son asked me if cats really have nine lives. After a good chuckle, I told him ‘no’. It seems that cats seem to be good at getting out of potentially life threatening situations. For example, they run across the street, a car barely missing them. They can also fall out of a tree and land on their feet! Nevertheless, they live only one life and then die just like us.

Jesus came to earth and lived one life, too. Since He lived a sinless life, the sacrifice of His perfect blood as atonement for our sin was needed just once. He died once for all sin for all people. The focus passage says that Jesus will come back, too. He’ll come to bring our sanctification process to a conclusion, to complete our journey toward being like Him.

1. If Jesus is coming back someday to sanctify completely everyone who is waiting for Him (He’ll make us like Himself) Heb. 9:28, why do we need to grow to be more Christ like now?

2. In what ways do you live purposefully for God’s kingdom, knowing you have only one life to live (as Jesus did)?

3. Spend time thanking Christ for that time when He will complete the process of making you into a new creature.

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 10 - Monday

2010-12-05T23:38:00.000-05:00

Monday – Better Waters

Focus passage: Hebrews 9:23-26

Read: Titus 2:13-14; 1 Peter 1:17-20; Matthew 26:27-28

I enjoy winter time. I like Christmas and snow and cold. Another reason is that I don’t have to mow the lawn for several months. It’s just not something I like to do. I cut the grass only to have it grow again and a few short days later I’m out there sweating through another couple hours. Who came up with the idea to have a yard of grass anyway?

Just like I have to cut grass over and over again, the Jewish priests had to go into the temple, a copy of the heavenly sanctuary, to offer a sacrifice for sin again and again. Their sacrifices of unblemished lambs, goats, and calves covered the sin of the people. When Jesus sacrificed Himself, He went to the heavenly sanctuary and offered His perfect blood to do away with sin.

1. Though you no longer have to make animal sacrifices when you sin, what should be your response when you sin? Do you do those things?
2. What should you do to put away sinful habits, thoughts, or ideas?
3. How can remembering that Jesus’ sacrifice doesn’t just cover our sin, but takes it away, help us to hold fast against sin?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 5-6 Friday

2010-11-23T12:37:00.000-05:00

Friday – If it ain’t broke…

Focus Passage: Hebrews 6:9-19

Read: Prov. 15:19; Prov. 24:30-34; James 5:10-11; Ephesians 5:1-2

We have all probably heard this well known phrase, “If it ain’t broke…don’t fix it.” Usually this phrase has something to do with an item that may not be broken, but definitely is not what it used to be. I remember having a car (74’ Nova) that demonstrated the truth of this statement. It was everything but great…but it wasn’t broke. And I drove it until I couldn’t drive it anymore.

Many people look at life in the same way. We continue to live in the same way but expect a different result. Or we just settle for the result we get. It’s not broke…so we don’t fix it. But what if brokenness is a short time away? Could our lives as Christians run a little smoother…a little more focused now to preempt a problem area? While not knowing what can happen tomorrow, there is one standard that will never be broken…the promises of God. Never needing fixed…we can trust God’s promises as the place to “tune-up” our lives.

1. How does this passage connect with the previous passages? How does moving away from elementary principles help us in holding onto the promises of God?

2. We are given the illustration of Abraham as a picture of the hope that we have in God’s promises. What Scriptural promises come to mind?

3. What areas of your life could use a little more reflection? Why?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 5-6 Thursday

2010-11-23T12:34:00.000-05:00

Thursday – Fake?

Focus Passage: Hebrews 6:4-8

Read: 2 Peter 2:20-22; 2 Corinthians 13:1-10

I have a friend who has years of experience in the jewelry business. He can spot a fake piece of jewelry pretty easily. One of the most beautiful and common pieces of jewelry is a diamond. Interestingly, it is also the most counterfeited. Through the years it has gotten increasingly difficult to tell whether a certain diamond is a fake or not. You can put two diamonds in a jewelry case, and from the perspective of our naked eyes, they would be identical. However, for an experienced jeweler, spotting a fake is easy. There are clear markers in the diamond that can identify its proof of authenticity.

In this same way, there are many people who have counterfeited Christianity. They have seen the working of the gospel in people’s lives…they have had full exposure to the gospel impact. Yet they become pretenders…actors on the grand stage of false Christianity. They pretend…but don’t possess salvation. Sadly, we probably all have seen this. People that look and even act like believers, walking away as if it wasn’t real.

As believers, we have to question how genuine we look. Our lives should identify the proof of an authentic relationship with Christ. Christianity cannot be lived in ambiguity.

1. How does the illustration in 6:7-8 shed light to the context of 6:4-6? Why is it impossible to restore them to the place of repentance again?

2. What areas of your life would you describe as authentic and genuine? Fake and unauthentic?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 5-6 Wednesday

2010-11-23T12:33:00.002-05:00

Wednesday – Mountains Grow, Too!

Focus Passage: Hebrews 6:1-3

Read: Psalm 92:12-15; 2 Peter 1:5-6

I recently watched a program about the Milky Way galaxy. One part described the birth of stars in a nebula, even showing beautiful pictures of these huge clouds of dust and gas. It was fascinating to watch the computer generated model of a star’s birth and growth. God made the process similar for many things in creation. Trees, grass, animals, fish, humans, clouds, mountains, stars, and even galaxies are all “born” at some point in time. Then they all start the process of growing and maturing, some naturally, some with the help of others that are more mature.

After the Lord brings us to birth as a Christian, a new child of God, He desires that we begin to grow toward maturity. It’s easy for us to spend an inordinate amount of time on the basics of our faith. It’s also easier to do that than to seek maturity and depth in Christ. That takes effort and commitment. Once you understand the “elementary teachings”, ask the Lord for His wisdom and direction to take you toward maturity.

1. Do you have a good understanding of the basic fundamental truths of our faith in Christ and the gospel?

2. In what specific ways have you begun the journey toward maturity? Is this something that you continually seek?

3. Think about times in your life that God permitted great times of spiritual growth in your life. What changed during those times?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 5-6 Tuesday

2010-11-23T12:32:00.002-05:00

Tuesday – License to Practice

Focus Passage: Hebrews 5:14

Read: Psalm 37:3-6; Proverbs 4:18; 2 Peter 1:3-8

Any person aspiring to become a doctor must go through many years of study before they are licensed as a medical doctor. Even though they can write “M.D.” after their name as soon as they have the license, they have little experience and a large amount of knowledge to gain. My dad says that must be why a doctor’s profession is called practicing medicine. Then there are lawyers who work for ‘law practices’. I must admit that the same is true for almost anything we do that requires a license. We all know that a teen’s driving experience is very small when they get a drivers license, but after years behind the wheel, we adults are great drivers…sometimes! Even pilots don’t have much experience as a new private pilot, but with constant practice and use of their new skills, they can become a safe commercial pilot.

God’s Word says that we mature spiritually through constant use of solid food. The solid food of the Word and from an intimate, committed relationship with Christ, builds up our spiritual body and trains us to know how to do the good work God has called us to and to avoid evil.

1. What do you do daily to put the truths of God’s Word to use?

2. What might inspire and encourage you to make better use of the tools God provides?

3. Take steps this week to put into practice those things you’ve learned that will help you to mature.

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 5-6 Monday

2010-11-23T12:31:00.001-05:00

Monday – A Hungry Baby

Focus Passage: Hebrews 5:11-13

Read: 1 Corinthians 3:1-2; 1 Peter 2:2; Ephesians 4:11-15

Our daughter has always been a good eater. When she was old enough to begin to eat baby food, we determined that she would get a balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables. As you might expect, she liked eating any kind of fruit we gave her and, amazingly, she also ate vegetables well. Like I said, we never had trouble getting her to eat. When we fed her fruit, she would open her mouth between bites. If the next bite wasn’t fast enough, she would begin to make noises. The memory of her in her highchair, mouth open, legs kicking, and a tantrum coming while my wife hurried to get another jar of baby food open still makes me laugh. What a sight! It was obvious that our little baby would be growing quickly. Now she’s in middle school. She frequently says she’s hungry, but not for baby food.

When we were spiritual babies, most of us craved the food that would help us learn and grow…spiritual milk, the basics of our faith. As we grow, if we grow, we need to move on to solid spiritual food and begin to teach others the foundations of our faith.

1. Think about the time since you committed your life to Christ. In what ways have you grown toward maturity in Christ and are eating solid food?

2. There are probably times of little or no growth. What caused that to happen?

3. What can you do to avoid things that stunt your growth to continue to move into deeper things of God and your relationship with Him?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4,7 Friday

2010-11-18T18:30:00.002-05:00

Friday – The Gift that Keeps Giving

Focus Passage: Hebrews 4:16; 7:11-28

Read: Psalm 110:3; John 17:1-26; 1 John 2:1

It’s hard to believe that Christmas is right around the corner. From stores to radio stations, Christmas preparations are being made. One of the biggest reasons for the hustle and bustle is the necessity people feel to buy gifts for their loved ones.

I remember when Allyson and I first got married we received an overwhelming supply of Corning Ware as wedding gifts. What could we do with all of this? We learned the art of “regifting.” Let’s just say that Corning Ware became a staple Christmas gift for friends and family (you know you have done the same thing). I wonder how many people passed on our Corning Ware to other loved ones…just maybe these gifts are still going.

Christ isn’t just a past Savior and a future Promise…He is our present Help. His status as High Priest forever gives us a constant gift of mercy in our lives. There is a throne of continual grace that is available for us in time of need. Truly a gift that keeps on giving.

1. Notice that Hebrews 4:16 and 7:19 are connected by the idea of drawing near to God. What gives us this right to draw near to God?

2. How is our hope in Christ a better hope (7:19)? How should this hope and confidence affect our attitude in prayer?

3. These passages reveal that Christ is forever...and His ministry of advocacy and help are constant. How does the view of Christ’s eternal advocacy give us great confidence through life’s struggles?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4,7 Thursday

2010-11-17T23:33:00.000-05:00

Thursday - Comparison

Focus Passage: Hebrews 5:10; 7:1-8

Read: Genesis 14:17-24; Isaiah 64:6; Matt. 13:44; Phil. 3:7-9

We live in a world of comparison. Think about it…our spouse, house, job, and even church are chosen based upon comparison. We see something that we think is superior and we go get it. Comparison is the art of choosing what is best.

Hebrews gives an illustration of the incomparable Christ in the ministry of Melchizedek. Just a few verses in the Old Testament and a chapter dedicated in Hebrews are all we get about this man (a pre-New Testament appearance of Christ - Heb. 7:3). Hebrews 7 makes a comparison between Melchizedek and Abraham. Obviously, there is no comparison Melchizedek was the king of Salem…Abraham was just a sojourner with a promise from God. Yet Melchizedek blesses Abraham.

One of the greatest struggles for believers is to see themselves compared to a Christ who was “without sin.” He is incomparable…we clearly fall short of Him. Yet, comparison brings us back to the right perspective…we need the One nothing can compare to, Christ. We can have confidence in Him because nothing compares.

1. In what way did Melchizedek, humble himself as King of Salem accepting the offering of Abraham?

2. How is the comparison of Christ connected to us holding fast to our confession and drawing near with confidence (Hebrews 4:14:16)

3. How does seeing yourself in comparison to Christ put your life in a proper perspective? How does this proper perspective help you understand the blessing of Christ?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4,7 Wednesday

2010-11-16T15:02:00.000-05:00

Wednesday – The Best is Yet to Come

Focus passage: Hebrews 5:6; 10

Read: Luke 8:11; Romans 5:1-5; 2 Thess. 3:5; 2 Timothy 4:5-7

One of my favorite illustrations is one that I received about a woman who was battling terminal cancer. She was told that she had a month at the most. In preparation she called her pastor to share a few requests and ideas for her memorial service. Favorite songs and Bible passages were discussed. After talking through the details this lady said to her pastor, “Pastor I have one more request.” “Anything” the pastor replied. “You have been extremely faithful to Christ, I will do anything for you in these last days of your life.” The lady paused for a moment and said, “I want a Bible and a fork laid in my casket with me!” Of course this brought confusion to the pastor…not so much because of the Bible…but a fork placed in the casket? “Let me explain,” She replied. “You remember those moments when we would go out to eat after church. After our main course the waitress would come over to the table and tell us to make sure to keep our forks. Of course you know why? The best was yet to come. No, not jello or pudding…but chocolate cake and pumpkin pie.”

Isn’t this true spiritually? We know that the best is yet to come. Christ gave us a picture that best demonstrates what our lives should be right now…one filled with endurance. With an ability to remain under the pressure while waiting for that moment when the best will be here (or we will be there). Go ahead…pick up the fork and endure, because we know what’s next.

1. How did Christ endure His trials and death? In what way is this a picture to us?

2. Why is endurance an important factor in the Christian life? What hinders us from enduring?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4, 7 Tuesday

2010-11-15T22:12:00.002-05:00

Tuesday – Certainty

Focus passage: Hebrews 4:16

Read: Psalm 71:5; Isaiah 32:17; Ephesians 3:12; Philippians 3:1-6

How confident are you that your football team will win the Super Bowl (Ok…honestly, if you are a Redskins fan don’t answer)? Seriously, how confident are you? Could your team be upset in the playoffs?

How confident are you that you will be alive tomorrow? Next week? Next year?

The fact is our confidence is wrapped up in the certainty of the result. If we are pretty certain of the results, then our confidence will be great. If the certainty is wavering, then our confidence is lacking.

The writer of Hebrews reminds us of the confidence we can have in Christ. The fact that He endured what we are facing gives us great confidence that we can endure. Even Christ lived with the certainty that salvation would be wrapped in His sacrifice. He lived out the confidence of that certainty. How much more can we who are of Christ…have confidence that we will receive mercy and help in every situation?

1. According to Scripture, what certainties do you have in Christ? How does this affect your confidence?

2. What things can hinder your confidence in Christ? How can you set these hindrances aside?

3. How does knowing that Christ understands your struggle aid your confidence?

4. What role does the mind play in your confidence?

Hebrews Bible Study Chapter 4-5: Monday

2010-11-14T23:13:00.000-05:00

Monday – Help!

Focus passage: Hebrews 4:16

Read: 2 Samuel 22; Psalm 40; Hebrews 2:18; Hebrews 13:6

I always enjoy reading about adventure and people willing to try things that others believe are too difficult. This was especially true of Abby Sutherland. Abby grew up in a boating family on the west coast. With a love for sailing she set out on a voyage to become the youngest person ever to circumnavigate the world alone (27,500 miles) (her brother Zac had become the youngest for short time in 2009 at the age of 17). On Saturday, January 23, 2010 the 16 year old sailor left Del Rey Yacht Club on board her boat, “Wild Eyes,” on a journey of a lifetime.

But after nearly 6 months, her feat came to an end when her boat entered a dangerous portion of the Indian Ocean. The winds were up to 60-80 knots and the seas where 20-25 ft high…her boat was literally being tossed to pieces. On June 10th she sent out a mayday call…a help call to rescuers. She finally realized her dream was not going to be a reality. It was time to give up. On June 12th she was aboard a French fishing vessel heading home…short of her goal.

When we became followers of Christ, we joined a journey of adventure to become more like Christ. In that moment we understood our need for help…for salvation. But it doesn’t end there. We continually are in need of help in our desperate situation. A mayday call, if you will, to continue calling on our “help in time of need.”

1. When was the last time you cried out to the Lord for help? How did you see God move in that moment?

2. Why do you think a position of desperation is important in having confidence in the Lord?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4-5 Thursday

2010-11-10T21:54:00.000-05:00

Thursday - Qualify

Focus Passage: Hebrews 5:5-6

Read: Genesis 14:17-24; John 8; Phil. 2:4-8

There are many things I don’t like in this world…stink bugs, long lines, dental floss, and cats (please don’t take that personally…I am allergic to them). But one thing that always gets to me is the telemarketing calls saying that I qualify for some great prize. Now don’t get me wrong, I love getting prizes. But there is something bothersome about these calls. Honestly…I don’t even know who these people are. They never received any information from me but somehow they know I qualify (at least that’s what they say). What’s more frustrating is that they put me on hold so they can check if I really do qualify. Make sure I get this right…I qualify so they can check if I do qualify.

What made Christ qualified to be our sacrifice? How could the God of the universe ever qualify to take our place and experience the weight of our pain? Only one possible way…Christ had to humble Himself. He had to hide His glory behind the weakness of human flesh to qualify as our worthy sacrifice. All of this, He did in order to make “the call” to us to say that we qualify for His good…through His working…His information.

1. In what way did Melchizedek, humble himself as King of Salem accepting the offering of Abraham?

2. What qualifying factors do we see in Hebrews 5, John 8, and Phil. 2 relating to Christ as the ultimate High Priest?

3. How does Christ qualifying as our sacrifice aid us in qualifying as followers of His? How does this release me in trying to qualify?

Being the Hands and Feet!

2010-11-09T22:21:00.000-05:00

We, FCF staff and leaders, believe it is of utmost importance for people to be a part of a Discovery Group. We believe small groups are the life-blood of our church. I try to remind continually, Sunday Morning Worship Services are not enough for you. You and I need a greater opportunity to go deeper with other church family members.

On certain occassions Discovery Groups go beyond just being a study group and become a group of community. One such group, the Monday ladies study (of about 20-25 women), went above and beyond study alone to truly become the hands of feet of Jesus. Through their powerful study of Israel and the tabernacle...they felt called to help a fellow believer facing terminal cancer. Through generous offerings, donations, and volunteerism, they were able to provide meals, cleaning, and needed funds. It's amazing what a few people, encouraged by Scriptures, can do together to touch a life with the love of Christ.

What a great reminder to all of us...the fact is we can conquer much more for the cause of Christ together than we can ever by ourselves. We need each other, and Discovery Groups are a great way to learn what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ.

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4-5 Wednesday

2010-11-09T21:07:00.000-05:00

Wednesday – A Two Dimensional Image

Focus passage: Hebrews 5:1-4

Read: Leviticus 21:1-22:9; Exodus 12:1-11; 1 Corinthians 5:7

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, is one of the most photographed places on earth. It’s been photographed in all kinds of weather, at various times of day and year, and from every perspective imaginable. Many professional photographers have taken thousands of beautiful shots, but each photo is imperfect and lacks depth. Though they depict amazing scenes, the photos are two dimensional. Without standing on the edge of this huge chasm, one doesn’t feel the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. A picture just doesn’t have the same affect. The pictures are only a good representation of a spectacular part of creation.

The men God called to be high priests were called to an honorable position. The high priest was important, offering sacrifices on behalf of the people and representing them before the Father. They were sinful and imperfect just like other the people, though. So, just like the two dimensional photo, the high priest was an image or symbol of something far greater to come…Jesus Christ, our high priest.

1. What are some other images or symbols of Christ are found in the Scripture?

2. Since we live after the life and death of Christ, how can these images of Him in Scripture build our faith?

Hebrews Bible Study: Heb. 4-5 Tuesday

2010-11-08T11:29:00.002-05:00

Tuesday – Guilty as Charged

Focus passage: Hebrews 4:16

Read: Ephesians 3:12; Acts 4:31; Psalm 103:17; Micah 7:18

I’ve been in a courtroom just once. I hit another car from behind and received a ticket for careless and reckless driving. I was completely at fault. On the appointed day, I went before the judge not to claim my innocence, but to plead for mercy and grace. I was hoping that he would change the charge to improper driving because it carried a lighter sentence and my insurance wouldn’t be affected as much. When my name was called to approach the bench, I was nervous and a bit fearful. I didn’t know this man and had no idea what he would say. As he reviewed the case, he asked how I would plead. I plead “guilty as charged.” Noticing that I had no previous tickets of any kind and because I accepted responsibility, he mercifully changed the ticket to improper driving. I had to pay a small fee and then I was free to go.

Fortunately, when we are in need of mercy and grace in our lives, we can go to a judge that we know. Since we know Christ and He understands us and our circumstances, we can go before Him with boldness and confidence.

1. Though we shouldn’t take the throne of grace for granted, how does it make you feel to know God is merciful and full of grace?

2. When was the last time you approached the throne with boldness and without fear?

Hebrews Bible Study: Hebrews 4-5

2010-11-08T11:28:00.000-05:00

Monday – Someone Who Understands

Focus passage: Hebrews 4:14-15

Read: Isaiah 63:9; 1 Corinthians 10:11-13; Hebrews 2:10, 17-18; James 1:2-3, 12

In Homer’s classic tale, the Odyssey, Odysseus is king of Ithaca. He asks his friend Mentor to watch over his son Telemachus while Odysseus goes to fight the Trojan War. Mentor was a wise, loyal, and faithful friend who helped Telemachus into manhood. We get our word mentor from this story. Over the years, the idea of mentoring has taken on meaning more than a wise and trusted counselor or teacher. Our mentor is someone we confide in about our struggles and shortcomings, someone who understands where we are in life because they’ve experienced it, too. Many times the relationship between a person and their mentor can to be stronger and longer lasting than any other relationship.

Jesus is also a wise, loyal, and faithful friend. God sent Him here to live where we do and He experienced all the hardships, temptations, and challenges we face. Since Jesus didn’t sin, He can be trusted beyond any other friend or mentor. Because He knows and understands, we can “hold firmly to the faith we profess.”

1. When you’re facing a trial or temptation, who do you reach out to first?

2. Think about your response. What does it say about your faith?

3. Christ understands and is faithful beyond all others. How can you more consistently hold firmly to your faith in Him in the midst of trials?

Hebrews Bible Study Week Three: Friday

2010-10-27T23:23:00.000-04:00

Friday -Texting

Focused Passage: Hebrews 4:11-13

Daily Readings: Psalm 119

So it’s official, we can no longer text while driving (or talk without a headset for that matter). A state law has been put into place that calls for a secondary offense for anyone caught texting while driving. This should come as no surprise to anyone, seeing that the number one cause for traffic accidents isn’t speeding, but being preoccupied/distracted while driving. The question that has run through my mind since this law took effect is, “how will they know?” If your phone is on your lap and you are texting while holding the steering wheel with one hand…How are they going to catch that?

Similarly, we live out our own preoccupations/distractions as if life hinged on these moments. Not even realizing that these distractions are causing chaos and confusion. Worse yet, we think that no one is evening noticing…or we pass them off like these things are important things in life. We need the great TEXT (God’s Word) to help us to take a look in the mirror at self…and see exactly what it is that is inhibiting us from enjoying the rest God has offered.

1. What stands out as a key description of God’s Word in your reading of Psalm 119?

2. How does striving for rest (4:11) connect with God’s Word being a discerner of thoughts and intentions of the heart (4:12)?

3. Would you call yourself preoccupied or distracted right now (limiting your ability to find rest in Christ)? What has God’s Word revealed to you about yourself?

Hebrews Bible Study Week Three: Thursday

2010-10-27T23:21:00.000-04:00

Thursday -TGIF! (Thank Goodness It’s Friday)

Focused Passage: Hebrews 4:9-10

Daily Readings: Gen. 2:1-3; Col. 2:13-17; Matt. 11:28-30; Rev. 14:13

Thank Goodness It’s Friday is a popular phrase and a well known restaurant is a glimpse into the heart of people’s desire for the work week to be over. But did you know that the phrase actually began back in the 1950’s by ABC as the motto of their Friday evening, prime-time programming. Shows like, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet and Leave it to Beaver became famous during these prime-time spots. What did the executives at ABC credit for the success of TGIF programming? Simple…people wanting time to sit down and rest after a long week of work and dealing with the daily grind. It was time to pause, sit down in front of the TV and get some laughs. Why not? They deserved it.

Here we are in the twenty-first century, going from one place to another, overwhelmed with heavy schedules and loaded expectations. Yet, Christ offers us rest through salvation. Because of an act on Friday two thousand years ago, we can have the rest of a TGIF heart every day. Our eternity is secure! His work is done! We just have to rest in the promises of God as we walk by faith.

1. Why do you believe it is so difficult for us to find rest in Christ alone?

2. What does it mean in Heb. 4:10 that we have “rested from our works like God did from His?” How is this significant for our lives?

3. What did Christ mean in Matt. 11 when He said that His “yoke is easy and burden light?” What distractions do you see keeping you from enjoying the daily rest that Christ has offered?

Hebrews Bible Study Week Three: Wednesday

2010-10-26T15:21:00.000-04:00

Wednesday – Ranger at Rest

Focus passage: Hebrews 4:1-8

Read: Matthew 11:28-29; Psalm 119:165; Joshua 1

Many people are looking for peace, joy, and contentment in life. They search for the kind of rest that Hebrews 4 speaks of, but most would rather reject Christ and His offer of rest through salvation.

As I write today, the Texas Rangers are playing in the Major League Baseball playoffs. Among the Rangers is an all-star player named Josh Hamilton. Josh was the very first player chosen in the 1999 draft, but five years later he was suspended from baseball for substance abuse. He’d become an alcoholic and cocaine addict. Because of a string of poor choices, he nearly destroyed his marriage and family and almost killed himself. God had better plans. In his book, Beyond Belief, Josh relates how God changed his heart and led him out of the wilderness to salvation and rest. He says that his inward transformation began the day he was saved and he was strengthened when he surrendered to God completely. His recovery would have been impossible without his relationship with Jesus. His life changed from “hopeless to hope-filled” when he turned to God. The destination of Josh’s journey through his wilderness would have been vastly different without faith in Christ. Josh found the rest and peace that the alcohol and cocaine could not give.

1. Entering into the promised land, Canaan, was a symbol of entering into God’s rest, entering into a life and relationship with Him. What other examples does the Bible give of God’s rest?

2. Remember the point in your life when you accepted God’s offer of rest, His gift of salvation. How is your life different than it could have been because you trusted Christ for your salvation?

Hebrews Bible Study Week 3: Tuesday

2010-10-24T23:16:00.000-04:00

Tuesday – The Cold Rebel

Focus passage: Hebrews 3:16-19

Read: Psalm 78; Romans 2:5-10; John 12:37-40

On the Discovery Channel program “Man vs. Wild”, Bear Grylls is placed in some remote, isolated location to spend the next 3 to 4 days finding his way back to civilization. He takes very little more than the clothes on his back and a small backpack. The theme of the program is Bear showing how to survive in all types of wilderness, from the high elevations of the Alps, the desert of Africa, to the jungle of Brazil. During one show, Bear is in the high, snow covered mountains. It’s very cold and windy. While trying to find a way down, he comes across a partially frozen stream. He describes how to avoid falling in the ice cold water and talks about the dangers of getting wet in those conditions. Amazingly, to prove these points, he removes his cold weather gear, stripping to his pants and t-shirt and then jumps into the water! He quickly crawls out and stutters through the need to get wet clothes off and warm up. To me, purposefully putting yourself through that kind of suffering is crazy. Bear obviously knows what he’s doing…and he’s also getting paid. What about us? Don’t we sometimes find ourselves in a wilderness trying to find our way out? Unfortunately, many times our wandering is self inflicted just like in Bear’s case. Because of some unbelief and disobedience toward God, rebellion takes us away from God’s intended path and we end up in a ‘wilderness.’

1. From Romans 2, what is the result of disobedience and unbelief?

2. We all rebel against God. Describe a time when you rebelled and found yourself in a wilderness. In what way did you disobey?

3. What did you feel during that time of rebellion?

Hebrews Bible Study Week 3: Monday

2010-10-24T23:15:00.000-04:00

Monday – Symptoms of a Sick Heart

Focus passage: Hebrews 3:7-15

Read: Psalm 95; Proverbs 28:14, 29:1

Last year in the U.S., 75% of all deaths from heart disease were caused by arthrosclerosis. Arthrosclerosis occurs when fat is deposited in the walls of the arteries and hardens there. As the deposits grow, they narrow the space in the artery, reducing the oxygen and blood supply to the organs. Symptoms can be shortness of breath, sweating, numbness, anxiety, loss of speech, and chest pain depending on which artery is affected. Ultimately, arthrosclerosis or in layman’s terms, hardened arteries, can cause a heart attack or stroke.

In Hebrews 3, the writer exhorts us to avoid the hardening of our heart. Our heart is hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. As sin grows, room for the Holy Spirit gets smaller, reducing our supply of God’s love, wisdom, joy, and peace in our life. The symptoms include disobedience and rebellion. In the end, a hardened heart may turn away from God.

1. When was the last time you asked the Physician to perform a heart checkup? What is the condition of your heart toward God today?

2. From Hebrews 3:13, what is one way we can avoid a hardened heart? What other things can you do to create a lifestyle that will ensure your heart has a clean bill of health?

Thoughts from the Catalyst Conference

2010-10-22T11:28:00.004-04:00

I and some of our staff and leaders had the privilege of attending the Catalyst Conference this week in Lynchburg, Va. The speakers were two dynamic leaders, Andy Stanley and Craig Groeschel. Here are some impressionable quotes from that conference:

First Session: Gaining and Sustaining Momentum

     Three Components of Sustained Momentum: New, Improved, Improving

     Momentum is never triggered by tweaking something old but introducing something new

     The only way to keep newness is constant evaluation

Second Session: Busting Barriers with Mindset Changes

    Think differently about programs. We can reach more by doing less.

     We are overprogrammed thus wearing people out.

     Everything comes back to mission. What is our mission?

     Quit doing what others do well and do what you do well

     Limitation is the most fertile ground for innovation.

     Don't recruit volunteers...instead release leaders

Third Session: Creating Personal Spiritual Momentum

     I will do today what I can do, to enable me to do tomorrow what I can't do today.

    The way most people do the work of God destroys the work of God in them.

    The quickest way to stop seeing what Crhist things about you is to focus on what others think about you

Fourth Session: Don't be that Couch

     When you own something, like a ministry, you always think it's more valuable than it is. It may need to be thrown out...but you have given a false value to it.

     What programs or ministries need to be thrown away because of ineffectiveness and lack of mission?

    What have we fallen in love with that's really not effective in ministry?

    Churches are in decline because we are more in love with the type of ministry that with unbelievers

Hebrews Bible Study Week Two: Friday

2010-10-22T11:07:00.000-04:00

Better than the Best

Focused Passage: Hebrews 3:1-6

Daily Readings: Deut. 32; John 3:27-35

There are constantly people trying to determine who’s the best…the best athlete, actor/actress, or team. As they say, “To be the best…you’ve got to beat the best!” It reminds me of the time I was invited to the NBA All-Star VIP pre-game event in Washington D.C. (While not connected…I did get to meet Michael Jordan). During the event, they had different All-Star style games you could play. One of my favorites was the three-point contest (they also had the dunk contest game where you could jump off a trampoline…yes…I dunked). I waited in line to try to beat past NBA three-point contestant champions. There were five shots at five racks around the three point line. The top score was twenty-one. When my turn came…I was in the zone. I hit the last shot to reach twenty-one points…tying the high score. On that day, I tied an NBA All-star three-point champion.

When you begin to compare any Biblical figure (or anything for that matter) to Christ…Christ always wins out. As if He wasn’t the best before the cross…What He did for us proves His superiority.

1. To the Hebrews, Moses was one of the greatest leader and lawgiver. In what ways is Jesus greater than Moses?

2. Moses was a “faithful servant” in God’s house. Jesus is a “faithful son” over God’s house. Why is this significant to us?

Hebrews Bible Study Week Two: Thursday

2010-10-22T11:05:00.000-04:00

A New Suit!

Focused Passage: Hebrews 2:13-18

Daily Readings: Leviticus 4, 6:24-30; 1 Cor. 15:20-22; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 2 Cor. 5:21

When I was in college, I was a part of a great “college group” at one of the local churches. We gathered for weekly Bible studies, held a soup kitchen for the homeless, and once a year went on a retreat at a camp up on the mountain. During one retreat and for the entertainment of the girls, a “Best Woman” contest was held. Several of us guys were made up as women. The girls picked out our clothes and put make up on each of us. We were really quite “beautiful.” The moderator then asked us questions similar to those asked at a beauty contest. We answered the best we could in a feminine, high pitched voice. We walked the stage in our high heeled shoes to show off our beauty. We provided great fun and laughter to the audience. Did I win? No, unfortunately, I don’t make a very good woman!

Can you imagine what it was like for God to put on flesh and blood? To leave the glory of heaven...to experience the pain of death? It wasn’t just an embarrassing moment…it was a humiliating moment. Yet He did this to help us in our sinfulness. (Al Wiggins)

1. Jesus has been described by some as “God with clothes on.” How is that an oversimplification of who Jesus was while He walked the Earth?

2. Why did Christ have to be made in every way like us to make atonement for our sin?

3. How is the fact that Jesus was tempted like us, an encouragement and an inspiration to you? How should that change how you view temptation and suffering in the future?

Hebrews Bible Study Week Two: Wednesday

2010-10-19T11:37:00.000-04:00

Brother, Where Art Thou?

Focused Passage: Hebrews 2:10-13

Daily Readings: Ephesians 1:3-14; Romans 5:6-8 & 8:12-25

A friend of mine and his wife are in the beginning stages of adopting a child. For a long time, Doug rejected the idea every time his wife brought up the subject. He says he had some fears. He feared the possible emotional and physical problems a child may have and his inability to cope with them. He also feared that he may not be able to bond with the child and develop a strong parent/child relationship. So Doug kept pushing the thoughts of adoption to the back of his mind. God wouldn’t let him get away with it, though. One Sunday morning at church, the pastor began to tell about his experiences with his adopted kids. The pastor showed pictures of his kids and orphans in need of parents. These pierced Doug’s heart and he began to weep. God convinced him that adoption was in His plan for Doug’s family. Now, the fear that he won’t be able to connect with his new child is gone. He says he will love this new child completely no matter what problems may arise. They will be family. Just because there may be brokenness and some rejection, Doug will love him or her.

Reminds me of how Jesus relates to us. He calls us family…His brothers and sisters. He left the glory of heaven and was willing to suffer for us to be able to have that privilege. Amazing love! How can it be? Let’s not take it for granted. (A. Wiggins)

1. Jesus left heaven’s glory to suffer here. He brought us to glory and calls us brothers and sisters. As we share in His glory, what else will we share in? Are you a willing participant?

2. What does it mean (in verse 10) that the “founder of their salvation was made perfect through suffering”? What does say about suffering in our life today?

3. What does a relationship with Christ as your Lord and brother look like? (It’s interesting that before the cross Jesus never called His followers brothers…disciples, followers, sheep, and children, but not brothers).

Hebrews Bible Study Week 2: Tuesday

2010-10-18T23:19:00.000-04:00

Lord it’s Hard to be Humble!

Focused Passage: Hebrews 2:9

Daily Readings: Isa. 53; Phil. 2

There is an old saying, “Life has a way of humbling you.” Obviously, humility is necessary because we get into a place of comfort with our position in life. The measure of humility is usually proportionate to our position. If pride is in the way…then humility seems more difficult. Sometimes it comes in defeat…other times it comes in small moments. Either way humility begins with us realizing what position we are in is not where we want to be.

There is an old story about Ulysses S. Grant…On his way to a reception held in his honor, Ulysses S. Grant got caught in a shower and offered to share his umbrella with a stranger walking in the same direction. The man said he was going to Grant's reception out of curiosity; he had never seen the general. "I have always thought that Grant was a much over-rated man," he said. "That's my view also," Grant replied.

But Christ had no need of humility. He was in a position of glory that was rightfully His. Yet His humility was proportionate to our position…not His. (D. Vance)

1. Why Jesus was “made a little lower than the angels?” (Heb. 2:9)

2. What does it mean that Christ was willing to do this? (It actually says it was by God’s grace that He tasted death 2:9)? What does this demonstrate about Him?

3. What areas in your life need humility? How can you have the same humble thinking of Christ (Phil. 2)?

Hebrews Bible Study Week 2: Monday

2010-10-17T21:16:00.000-04:00

Almost Nothing!

Focused Passage: Hebrews 2:5-8

Daily Readings: Gen. 1:26-27; Psalm 8; Isa. 40:21-26

Last summer my family and I spent time at my parents’ cabin in Colorado. Late one evening, I got my son out of bed and carried him outside. It was a dark, moonless, cloudless night with little “light pollution” (street lights, etc.). He couldn’t understand why I was taking him outside. I pointed to the sky and then he knew why. After about 15 seconds of stunned silence he said, “It doesn’t look real. It looks like I could reach out and touch them.” You see, he’s grown up with the haze and light polluted sky of our area. He had never seen the billions of stars that you can see with the naked eye when the sky is truly clear. I pointed out the Milky Way and several constellations. Still amazed, my son declared that compared to all those stars, the Earth seems small. Yes, I agreed, and we humans are smaller still. (A. Wiggins)

1. Have you ever been somewhere or had an experience that caused you to feel as small as a “grasshopper?” Why?

2. No doubt we are small, yet Hebrews 2:5-7 says that we were God’s creation, crowned with glory and honor, and originally having authority. How does this give you purpose and direction as a follower of Christ?

3. Hebrews 2:8b says that at present not everything is subject to “man.” Why not? What happened to cause this?

Hebrews Bible Study - Friday

2010-10-07T17:28:00.000-04:00

Friday - Drifting

It’s interesting that if you look up the word “drifting” in your computer’s search engine, you get a description that says the following, “Drifting refers to a driving technique and to a motorsport where the driver intentionally over steers, causing loss of traction in the rear wheels through turns, while maintaining vehicle control and a high exit speed.” Come on…are you serious? The driver actually intentionally over steers…and maintains control. Intentionally out of control while being in control. Doesn’t sound right to me!

Spiritual drifting happens when we, by our own choices (i.e. intentionally), move away from God’s intended direction…and think that we are in control. Then, over time, people find themselves farther and farther away from the truth of the gospel. They look back and wonder what happened. It’s drifting without fear! For unbelievers, they miss out on much needed salvation…for believers, they drift away to barrenness and brokenness. All the while…thinking that we are under control, we find people lacking the fear of God to live according to His Word.

Daily Reading: Acts 17:10-12; I John 1:1-2:15; 1 Thessalonians 2:13-14

1. Hebrews 2:1 says that we should pay careful attention to what we hear from God so as to not drift away. For the church in Thessalonica, what was the result of the people paying close attention to the preaching of Paul?

2. Are there any areas in your life that may be susceptible to drifting away?

3. What can you actively do to make sure you’re not drifting away? (Acts 17:10-12 for one idea)

Hebrews Bible Study - Thursday

2010-10-06T13:26:00.000-04:00

Thursday – Who’s in Charge?

I love watching those shows that demonstrate the proper way to train your dog. My small, 11 lbs dog, Daisy, can be pretty ferocious at times (honestly…I’m exaggerating a little). I always get a kick out of the expert trainers on TV saying, “You have to show your dog who’s in charge.” Exactly, Daisy needs to know that I, at 200 lbs more than her, am in charge. Yet it seems I really have no authority. I find it hysterical that my wife, however, can walk up to her and say two words and Daisy will do exactly what she asks. “Daisy, sit down!” She sits down. “Daisy, calm down!” She calms down. “Daisy, go bother my husband!” And Daisy bothers me. It’s like she really has no idea the power I have…yet she will listen to my wife.

Isn’t this exactly how we are with Christ sometimes? We know the authority that He has…instead we act as if He won’t use it or has given it all to us. Christ has the authority to wipe us off the map, yet in grace and mercy, He uses that authority to lead us and guide us into a life worth living.

Daily Readings: Zechariah 9:9-10; Matthew 8:23-27 & 9:1-7; Mark 1:21-28; John 5: 24-27

1. From the above passages, what are some things Christ has authority over?

2. Where does He get such authority? How does having this authority make Him superior to other ‘gods’?

3. Notice Hebrews 1:4-14 focuses on Christ being better than the angels…1:14 says that these angels serve us who are inheriting salvation. But how do they serve us?

4. Does Christ have authority in your life? How is Christ’s authority revealed in your daily life?

Hebrews Bible Study - Wednesday

2010-10-05T17:04:00.000-04:00

Wednesday – Leaving Good for Better!

When I first began to have feelings for my wife (obviously she wasn’t my wife yet), I was in a relationship with my college roommate’s sister. I had thought she was “the one” for me. But the more time I spent with Allyson, the more I felt confused by the pulling of my heart strings. The answer came in a little saying that I use often… “Sometimes you have to leave good for better!” For me it was leaving a good relationship for what was clearly better for me.

As Christians, we are constantly bombarded with these same moments of indecisiveness. We find ourselves caught up in good things (sometimes only from our own perspectives)…but we know they’re not best. Sometimes it’s because we don’t know how much better “best” is. At other times we know what is better but choose to settle for less anyway. Yet why would any of us settle for good…when best is available? Yet we do this all the time with Christ. We know He is much more superior, greater, and better, but we settle for just simply good. Maybe it’s time to leave good for better!

Daily Reading: John 3:31-35; Colossians 1-2; Revelation 5

1. In each of these passages, who is describing Jesus’ superiority?

2. What does Paul mean when he says that the fullness of the Deity lives in Christ (Col. 2:9)? Notice it also says that the fullness of Christ is in us (1:27)…what does this mean for us?

3. What areas of your life would you say that you need to leave good for better (Christ)? What are the things holding you back? Why can’t you trust Christ in these areas (especially if He is all that these passages describe)?

Hebrews Bible Study - Tuesday

2010-10-05T17:00:00.002-04:00

Tuesday – It’s all in the name

I remember the stories behind naming our sons. My wife and I had many discussions, lists, books, and ideas that led to our favorites. When a son was born…the name had already been chosen. The Hebrew culture was and is much different. For them names were sometimes given after the baby was born and usually based upon their character at birth. The name was more than just identity…it was purpose and a description of character.

The name given to Jesus, a basic, common name of the day...truly describes His plan and purpose. Literally it means, “The Lord is salvation.” Jesus, it isn’t just another name, it’s a description of the heart of God toward us. It’s all in the name!

Daily Reading: Isaiah 9:6-7; Philippians 2:9-11; Revelation 19:11-16

1. In Hebrews 1:4, the writer describes Christ’s name as superior to that of the angels. What name is the writer referring to?

2. Can you list a few names/descriptions of Christ throughout Scripture (different than the ones mentioned):

3. In what way does Phil. 2:9-11 describe Jesus’ name as being superior to the angel’s names?

4. What is the response of your heart when the name of the Son is spoken? Are you in awe of His name?

Hebrews Bible Study - Monday

2010-10-05T16:52:00.000-04:00

Monday – “Can you hear Me now?”

Let’s be honest…We all can name the company that made the slogan, “Can you hear me now?” famous...come on…you know it…Yes! That’s right! Verizon! Verizon has used this slogan to sell their service to millions of people around the world. Whether you have Verizon or not, you have probably used this phrase to describe your cell service as well.

Hebrews begins with a statement that sets the tone for the rest of the letter…that God has spoken to us through His Son, Jesus Christ (1:2). As we study through Hebrews, this same question is going to come back to us over and over again… “Will we hear Him now?”

Daily Reading: Colossians 3:16-17; Matthew 13:18-23; James 1-2

1. In Christ’s parable of the soils, what is the significance of each soil and how are they a picture into our lives of listening?

2. James tells us to be quick to listen (1:19)…doers not just hearers (1:22)…How are you doing as a listener and doer? What areas of your life do you believe you could listen better?

3. How do you prepare yourself to “let the Word of Christ dwell in richly” (Col. 3:16) every day? What are other ways that you can prepare yourself to hear and do God’s Word?

4. Have I really heard the Word of God in the person and the teaching and the work of the Son?

Encouraging Note

2010-09-03T12:29:00.000-04:00

I thought I would share a note that we received from Ryan and Jenny Jones. As many of you know Jenny just had surgery to remove Thyroid cancer. Jenny and Ryan's letter I hope will be encouragement to you.

Dear Church Family,

First, we appreciate your prayers immensely! The need for prayer is probably tremendous for a congregation of this size, and for hundreds of various situations. In addition to praying for all of these needs for the congregation, each of you have your own personal concerns to pray about, and even prayer for people or events outside of the church.

In spite of this great demand for so much prayer and attention, all of you have taken the time to include Ryan, me, and our family in your prayers. We are truly thankful to all of you for your prayers and thoughts for us.

Second, I'm not sure if words can express the "warm embrace" we have felt from all of you, and, really, the whole church. As you know, Ryan, I, and our children are fairly new to the church. When we found this church, I was quite closed-minded, thinking that there would be no church that could possibly be as wonderful as our church in Colorado...How wrong I was!

I strongly believe that God has led us to FCF. Through out my Christian walk, I have never felt so "on fire" for Christ as I do now. I just want to please Him, and want Him to shape me into an instrument for Him. I have never felt this strong of a desire in my heart until recently. In addition, the warm, welcoming, friendly "embrace" from this church has been a magnificent blessing from the first day we walked through the door. When we received a lot of sorrowful news in June, none of you really knew us extremely well at that time. Yet, all of you reached out to us with unreserved love, and surrounded us with care, comfort, and prayer. I thank all of you for that.

I am happy, blessed, and even proud to be a part of this congregation. I thank Jesus for sending us to this church. I am thankful, too, for such a great children's ministry. I have even seen my children growing spiritually. I know God will take care of us in His was. What an amazing, mighty God we serve!

Ryan, Jenny, and Family

Big Decision...Big Answer

2010-06-18T13:13:00.000-04:00

Last evening the leadership team of FCF met together to discuss the status of our Youth and Families Pastor search. After much discussion concerning all the feedback and recommendations you presented, we unanimously decided to offer the positon to Brian Kelley. This morning I met with Brian...and he and his family have accepted the position!

Obviously, this has been a long process overwhelmed with prayer and a desire to see the Lord's will and guidance. As with any decision where humans are involved, it wasn't easy. But we move forward confident that the Lord has led Pastor Brian and his family to FCF for such a time as this. Through this process we have been able to observe and find someone with the experience, training, and spiritual aptitude to lead our Youth and Families Ministry. And we are excited about what our future holds in reaching and training youth to be a model generation of Christ followers.

Youth and Families Pastor Candidate: Brian Kelley

2010-06-13T23:06:00.002-04:00

Today we were able to hear from our Youth and Families Pastor Candidate, Brian Kelley. He talked about what it means to live a life focused on the Lord. As many of you shared it was a message that challenged hearts and minds to refocus lives toward Christ.

We were able to hear Brian and Krista's heart for youth and families during our Q & A following the 10:45 am worship service. We asked about 20-25 questions submitted by the FCF family over the past couple of weeks. Our prayer is that you were able to get a good snapshot of what youth and families ministry would look like under their direction. If you weren't able to make it please check out the podcasts page at http://www.fcfpodcasts.com/ or visit our website at http://www.explorefcf.com/. From there go to our podcasts page.

So you might be thinking..."Where do we go from here?" We are now in the "feedback" stage of our process. From now until Thursday mid-day, we are asking you to share as much feedback as you would like. You can do that through email, staffing@explorefcf.com or to myself pastor@explorefcf.com. You can also call the church office or send a letter.

Obviously, this has been a long process (almost 2 years) and our desire is to continue through that proven process until the position is filled. We are excited about where we are headed and have full confidence that the Lord will continue to guide us in the way that He desires. We ask you to continue to pray that Christ's glory would be our focus and His plan would be our guide.

Intimacy with God or Bust!

2010-05-11T12:52:00.002-04:00

Sunday's message by teacher, author, and directional leader, Mike Guzzardo was absolutely on spot. If you missed it or have somehow forgotten what was shared...let me just take a few minutes to remind you of this awesome message.

First of all I would like to thank Pastor Mike, our Administrative Pastor, for inviting and connecting our church as host to Mike Guzzardo. As we shared, Mike is a desired speaker all over the country...so to get him to FCF was great. It definitely was worth all the effort by Pastor Mike. Thanks for that bro!!!

I love the fact that Mike didn't mince words about the problem with our intimacy with Christ. The fact is many of us are settling for a controlled flame instead of a consuming fire. As he so appropriately reminded us...God is a consuming fire (Hebrews 10), so if our intimacy is settling for a controlled flame then we are missing the very essence of the Lord.

As Mike shared with us, we must remember those danger areas that attempt to steal away our moments of intimacy...which in fact are stealing our destiny. The more intimate we are with Christ, the closer we live facing the destiny God has for our lives. When distraction, sin, or time begin to steal away the intimacy...then our destiny is hindered and we settle for second best. God only gives the best...so second best is a very insult to His character.

An interesting analogy to our intimacy with Christ is found in the word "know." Jesus prayed in John 17 that we would "know Him and the Father." Our very salvation is dependent upon the fact of knowing Him. But what's most interesting about knowing God is how it shows up in Scripture. The Old Testament writers would describe the physical intimacy between a husband and wife as "knowing" each other (i.e. Adam "knew" his wife Eve and they conceived).

We are called to "know" Christ. Not just a knowledge about Him, but to "know" Him in an intimate way. To know the nooks and crannies of His desires for us. To hear His whispers even when the world around us is screaming. As Hosea said, "The Lord says, I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings" (Hosea 6:6).

So let us, as people and church, move into the deeper waters of intimacy as we seek to "know" Him and His plan for us!

Sunday's Baptism Service

2010-04-20T12:47:00.000-04:00

Sunday's worship service was a great time to rejoice in both the need of the world, through Compassion International and our discussion in Ecclesiastes 5-6, and those in our own community who demonstrated their commitment to Christ through baptism. I have to confess that baptism services are one of my favorites services throughout the year. Of course I think the ultimate beauty of Sunday was seeing so many youth demonstrate their commitment to Christ.

I will be the first to confess that it was a little weird to have baptism on the Sunday we are talking about money (Ecclesiastes Series). People following their commitment to Christ with baptism and money...weird combination. Yet if you really think about it, isn't that a great picture of the commitment that our money should be to Christ. I confess that in my 3 years and 4 months at FCF this was first Sunday I have preached a message about money. No, not because we are having money issues (the series through a book of the Bible determined when) or need more money (ok we can always use more money for the Kingdom)...but that it would be a great reminder of the full commitment that Christ calls us to. And much of that commitment is seen through the lenses of our checkbooks.

As we read on Sunday, Jesus said, "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matt. 6:21). He made an undividing link between money and the heart. What we love...we give to. Jesus goes on to say, "you cannot serve God and money" (Matt. 6:24). What we give to is who we serve...who we love...what we really want. As Christians our motivation for getting more, should be to give more. The more I get the more I can give.

The problem is that we really don't believe we can make an impact with our giving. We think that our peasley amount will never change the world. And that is exactly the problem, our head gets in the way of our heart. We start overthinking what God has called us to. And in reality we are questioning the power of God to work with whatever we can give. See christianity is meant to be reactionary...we react to the grace, mercy, and blessing of God. As He gives to us, we then react by giving more back to Him because we know He is able to do more with it than I can. Solomon grasped this idea...that's why he said riches with only an "under the sun" perspective, are vanity. Are you looking at the eternal difference that can be made by your money? Or are you settling for the "under the sun" perspective that will never satisfy?

God moving...when we are staying!

2010-02-25T00:04:00.000-05:00

One of the greatest privileges as a Pastor/Leader is when one of your own bodly proclaims God's word unashamedly. While I love preaching...I can honestly say to give someone an opportunity and watch them do it well, absolutely thrills my heart.

Tonight, Eric preached a powerful message to our sister church in Tipitapa. God moved among hearts...we prayed with many people. One lady, with a heart of repentance, confessed her four month affair to the church. Others prayed for strong marriages...prodigal kids...and salvation for the community. The trip came to fulfillment tonight.

God clearly kept us in Nicaragua for these moments. Our original intention was to head to Costa Rica to connect with a missions opportunity...then spend one day at our sister church in Tipitapa, Nicaragua...but God had other plans. Dave Glaze's, our staff missionary in Nicaragua, car broke down while we were in the airport in Washington D.C. Then one thing after another...literally stranded us in Nicaragua. Yet while we were "stranded" God was moving. God was already preparing hearts...ours and those in Tipitapa and Mangua. We can't wait to see what the Lord is going to do over the next few days.

Haiti - Christ in the Rubble

2010-01-14T16:06:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday afternoon an earthquake, aptly named by experts as the "Big One"...a 7.0 magnitude one, ripped apart the country of Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Now two days later an estimated 45,000-50,000 people are believed to be killed in and around the capital city of Port-au-Prince. As one observer said, "Half the island is green and the rest is dust."

The shock of this magnitude leads many to question...to question God's character, integrity, and love toward the world. In this moment of Divine tension I believe that Christ can be found. Somewhere deep inside the battered streets and tumbled walls...is Christ. Through the cries of hurting people, and the shouts of helping people...there is Christ showing Himself worthy, compassionate and merciful.

While it is impossible for our minds to grasp the plan of God in tragic suffering. We cannot help but to pray for the people of Haiti to run to Him as their refuge and strength. That they will see the work of the Lord in ways like never before. That they will see His hand guiding and working in the midst of loss and confusion. As Job's friend Elihu said to him in intense personal tragedy, "By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast. He loads the thick cloud with moisture; the clouds scatter His lightning. They swirl about, being turned by His guidance, that they may do whatever He commands them on the face of the whole earth. He causes it to come on the face of the habitable world. Whether for correction, or for His land, or for mercy. Listen to this O, Job; stand still and consider the wondrous works of God" (Job 37:10-14). Of Job's tragedy, James says, "You have seen the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord - that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful" (James 5:11)

So while we can't grasp the plan of God in this tragedy...we can be certain that He is compassionate and merciful. When the dust of mourning and loss, chaos and tragedy, questions and curiousities, settle...there will be Christ...compassionate and merciful.

A few closing thoughts...
- Pray for the people of Haiti. Pray for comfort and strength...but more importantly for the gospel message to become the forefront of thoughts and hearts. That many will come to Christ through this event.

- Pray for our missionary...Luc St. Felix. We have been able to make contact with him...he and his family are ok. However, the church and training facility have collapsed. Families from the church have been killed and most are without homes. Pray for wisdom and strength to endure this time. In his email Pastor Luc asked us to pray that he could reach more people for the cause of Christ.

- Pray for our response. We are in discussion with Pastor Luc about ways that we can respond both financially and personally. We have also opened the door to send some of you...if and when he deems necessary and appropriate.

Because HIS name is at stake,
Pastor Dave

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-18T12:13:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful year it has been! As Christmas falls upon us, and 2009 comes to an end, we find ourselves reflecting upon the blessings in our lives. We count each of you as one of those blessings. As we think of each of you, we cannot help to recall Paul’s words, as he wrote to the church of Corinth, “I thank my God always concerning you…” Each one of you are dear to us! We are thankful for you, and blessed to have you in our lives.

Throughout the busyness of this season we pray you’ll take time to truly reflect on the reason we celebrate. Luke 1:31-34, “And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and His kingdom will have no end.” Verse 35… “The holy offspring shall be called the SON OF GOD.”

The very Son of God, Jesus, sent to this world in a most humble state. Yet He was born, not just for life, but for death…Not just for peace, but for people…not just for sin, but for salvation. The Savior…humbled, yet exalted.

Praise be to God!! This is why we celebrate!

Preaching the Gospel to the Church

2009-12-10T16:42:00.001-05:00

Sunday, during the third worship service, we had quite a discussion regarding what Romans 1 was asking of us. If you haven’t noticed, we have been hitting hard the simplistic depth of the gospel message in our latest sermon series (especially as it relates to the church). At the heart of these discussions is what I believe to be a faulty understanding of the theology of salvation. In other words, I believe we have missed a vital part of the salvation message.

What makes Romans 1 so interesting is what Paul says in verse 15. Paul says that he can’t wait to come to Rome to “preach the gospel to YOU who are in Rome.” You…being the people to whom he is writing, namely, the church. So why in the world would Paul preach the gospel to the church? Isn’t the gospel focused on unbelievers? Well…not exactly.

As we discussed on Sunday, the well known verses in Romans 1:16-17 extends farther than just the salvation experience we call conversion. Clearly Paul didn’t say in verse 16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to CONVERSION…” but “SALVATION.” At first glance it would seem that Paul is just speaking of that moment we placed faith in Christ. But this letter goes on to describe that salvation is not only the initial moment of faith…but faith that leads to the salvation of Christlikeness. So, while there was a moment years ago that I realized “I was a wicked sinner in need of redemption through the blood of Christ”…I still have a continual understanding of the gospel message that says, “I am still a wicked sinner being redeemed until I become like Christ.”

So Paul’s desire to preach the gospel to the church came from an accurate view of the theology of salvation. He came back to the truth that all aspects of life come back to how we respond (presently) to the gospel. Not just a past decision…but a continual understanding and surrender to that message we accepted.

Thanksgivings...

2009-11-24T14:56:00.000-05:00

I have to admit…I love Thanksgiving. What a great time of food, family, friends, fellowship, and football. Thanksgiving is one of those holiday’s that I look forward to the most. No, No … not just because food’s involved (although it does add greatly). But it is a time of reflection on the Lord, to give Him thanks for everything He has blessed us with. So many times, I consistently ask the Lord for one thing after another after another, and yet forget to stop and say, “Thank You,” “Thank You for eternal life. Thank You for a great family. Thank You for health. Thank You for a wonderful ministry. Thank You for another day to serve You.”

It’s funny because Allyson and I, as most parents do, have attempted to teach our boys to say “thank you” after asking for something. Most would agree that this seems to be simplest thing to teach our children. I mean…how hard it should be to expect them to say “please and thank you?”As I was thinking about our progress as parents this week, I couldn’t help but to ponder, “Does the Lord need to teach us to say thank you or does it come from our mouths with a heartfelt thankfulness that the Lord deserves?” Are we truly thankful, even though we claim to be very thankful? Do we need a lesson on thankfulness?

The subject of thankfulness reminds me of the story in Luke 17 where Jesus heals the ten lepers. In verse 13 these lepers ask the Lord to have mercy on them. I am sure you have heard the story. One came back, a dirty, rotten Samaritan, to give thanks to the Lord for what He had done. Jesus asks, “Where are the nine?” Now wait a minute… The Lord knew that they were thankful. In fact, He knew that they were probably too excited. They were sharing the news with their families and friends. Why would Jesus expect them to come back and say thank you? Of all people didn’t Jesus know of their thankfulness?

We can speculate. We can believe that the rest of the former lepers were thankful. But thankfulness is not an understood word or an obvious thought. Thankfulness is an action. It is taking a step in our life to show what our heart really feels. Of course if some asked the other nine if they were thankful, they probably would have said, “very thankful.” But thankfulness is not words, but a life action.

Is your life a demonstration of thankfulness or is thankfulness a day of the year, a word from a mouth, a thought from your mind? Are you truly thankful with your life?