Faith Lutheran Church Sermons

Love: Love Warns

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 18:00:00 -0700

7/5/2009 -- 1 John 2:18-27 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also.
1 John 2:23

1. To be in the last days means that Christ has ___________ all things and we are to be __________ for His return.

2. A sign to warn us that we are in the last days is the rise of ________________, that is, those who deny Jesus is the Christ.

3. John warns us of these attacks and prepares us for them by:

a. Declaring we are already _____________.

b. Exhorting us to _____________ in ___________.

Scripture Readings
Ezekiel 2:1-5
1 John 2:18-27
Mark 6:1-13

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

Matthew 7:15-20 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

[We] confess that hypocrites and evil people are mixed together in the church and that the sacraments are efficacious even though they may be dispensed by evil ministers, because the ministers act in the place of Christ and so do not represent their own person. This accords with that passage [Luke 10:16], 'Whoever listens to you listens to me.' The ungodly teachers must be avoided because they no longer act in the person of Christ but are Antichrists. Christ says, [Matt. 7:15], 'Beware of false prophets,' and Paul says [Gal. 1:9], 'If anyone proclaims a gospel contrary to what you received, let that one be accursed!'
Apology to the Augsburg Confession X: The Church

We conclude that the sing of the antichrist, like the other signs of the times, is present throughout the history of the church. We may even say that every age will provide its own particular form of antichristian activity. But we look for an intensification of this sign in the appearance of the antichrist whom Christ himself will destroy at his Second Coming.
Anthony Hoekema, The Bible and the Future.

Love: Love Discerns

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:00:00 -0700

6/28/2009 -- 1 John 2:15-17 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.
1 John 2:17

1. The Christian life of love is a life that ____________.

2. We must discern that _______________ teaching about God's love and grace is woefully ______________.

3. Worldly thinking is whatever _____________ from God's gracious and almighty hand and _____________ humanity to the place of God.

4. When we hate those things that ____________ God, we actually learn to love the world _____________!

Scripture Readings
1 John 2:15-17

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Love

1 Corinthians 1:31b Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.

Matthew 7:15-20 "Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

Because God has already laid the foundation of our fellowship, because God has bound us together in on ebody with other Christians in Jesus Christ, long before we entered into common life with them, we enter into that common life not as demanders but as thankful recipients. We thank God for what He has done for us. We thank God for giving us brethren who live by His call, by His forgiveness and His promise. We do not complain of what God does not give us; we rather thank God for what He does give us daily.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together

If we deny that we are sinners, other than in generalities or through euphemisms, forgiveness has no meaning for us. And so we are incapacitated for what we are created and saved to do best, to love: to love God, to love Henry, to love Emily.
Eugene Peterson, Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places

Father's Day: The True Head of the House

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Jim Lareva) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 18:00:00 -0700

6/21/2009 -- Joshua 24:15 -- Pastor Jim Lareva

Love: Love in the Family

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 18:00:00 -0700

6/14/2009 -- 1 John 2:12-14 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all.
1 Thessalonians 5:14

1. When life's circumstances cause us to question our salvation, God's children must turn to God's ____________ for ____________.

2. Those who are mature in the faith are called to __________ __________ the church with their knowledge of God in Christ Jesus.

3. The zeal of those young in the faith should be ____________ and ____________ with the Gospel!

Scripture Readings
Ezekiel 17:22-24
1 John 2:12-14
Mark 4:26-34

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
1 Thessalonians 5:14-24

[John] wants to comfort all and to exhort them to remain in the purity of the Word of God. After mentioning all the levels of age he addresses the fathers and the adolescents, or the young men, anew. But he gives to each age its own descriptive word and changes this into the spiritual sense. The fathers build, the youths fight for and defend the state, the children are preserved in it. All overcome the devil; but they do so with a new kind of warfare, namely through the Word.
Martin Luther, Lectures on the First Epistle of Saint John. LW. XXX, p. 247.

Love: Love Test - Part 3

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 18:00:00 -0700

6/7/2009 -- 1 John 2:9-11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble.
1 John 2:9-10

1. TEST #3: If you claim to be in the __________, do you love your fellow ___________?

2. We are members of a community formed by a __________ God of __________.

3. Hatred flows from an aversion to ____________.

4. God's love for us in Christ leads us to love all who are ________ __________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 6:1-8
1 John 2:9-11
John 3:1-17

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

When he had gone out, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You will seek me, and just as I said to the Jews, so now I also say to you, 'Where I am going you cannot come.' A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
John 13:31-35

I haven't come for only you,
but for My people to pursue.
You cannot care for Me,
With no regard for her,
If you love Me, you will love the church.
- Derek Webb The Church on the album She Must and Shall Go Free

When Scripture tells the story of how God reaches out, it does not merely use objective, descriptive, or scientific language, but rather the warmest, most intimate, most involving, engaging, and powerfully moving metaphor in human experience: love.
- Thomas Oden The Living God: Systematic Theology Vol 1

Love: Love Test - Part 2

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 31 May 2009 18:00:00 -0700

5/31/2009 -- 1 John 2:5b-8 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did.
1 John 2:5b-6

1. TEST #2: We who claim to be Christians and have our lives found in Christ, do we ____________ like ____________?

2. This is not a call to be _____________ like Jesus because we are not ______________.

3. In our ___________ then, we are to walk as Jesus walked, in complete ____________ and ____________ towards our neighbor.

4. Jesus' love and forgiveness, given to us by the Holy Spirit, is the ____________ and ___________ of our lives of love.

Scripture Readings
1 John 2:5b-8

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
John 15:3-8

The fruits of the Spirit, however, are the works that the Spirit of God, who dwells in believers, effects through the reborn; they are done by believers (insofar as they are reborn) as if they knew of no command, threat, or reward. In this manner the children of God live in the law and walk according to the law of God-what St. Paul in his epistles calls the law of Christ and the law of the mind. And yet they are not "under the law but under grace" (Rom. 7:23 and 8:1, 14).
The Epitome of the Formula of Concord VI 5

Love: Love Test - Part 1

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 24 May 2009 18:00:00 -0700

5/24/2009 -- 1 John 2:3-6 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. The man who says, "I know him," but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
1 John 2:3-4

1. Whenver prideful attitudes arise in the church they must be ____________ in light of God's Word.

2. TEST #1 - If you claim to ____________ God, do you ____________ his commands?

3. Loving as Jesus loved fulfills Christ's command. But we often use ____________ selfishly and not lovingly.

4. Jesus acted on His knowledge of God in order to __________ us.

Scripture Readings
Acts 1:12-26
1 John 2:3-11
John 17:11b-19

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
John 8:31-32

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me - just as the Father knows me and I know the Father - and I lay down my life for the sheep.
John 10:14-15

Meditatio [meditating on God's Word] is the discipline we give to keeping the memory active in the act of reading. Meditation moves from looking at the words of the text to entering the world of the text. As we take this text into ourselves, we find that the text is taking us into itself. For minds and experience. The biblical text is a witness to God revealing himself. The revelation is not a series of random oracles that illuminate momentary obscurities or guide us through perplexing circumstances. This text is God-revealing: God creating, God saving, God blessing.
Eugene Peterson, Eat This Book

Love: Love Says, "I'm Sorry"

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 17 May 2009 18:00:00 -0700

5/17/2009 -- 1 John 1:5-2:2 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense-- Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
1 John 2:1-2

1. To walk in darkness means...

a. ___________ who God ________;

b. ___________ what God says about __________.

2. To walk in the light means...

a. _____________ I am a _____________;

b. _____________ I am ____________ because of what Jesus has done.

Scripture Readings
1 John 1:5-2:2

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what he has done has been done through God."
John 3:17-21

Therefore, because people cannot by their own powers live according to the law of God and because all are under sin and guilty of eternal wrath and death, we cannot be set free from sin and be justified through the law. Instead, what has been given us is the promise of forgiveness of sins and justification on account of Christ, who was given for us in order to make satisfaction for the sins of the world, and who has been appointed as the mediator and propitiator.
Apology of the Augsburg Confession IV: Justification

Love: Love Proclaims

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 10 May 2009 18:00:00 -0700

5/10/2009 -- 1 John 1:1-4 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.
1 John 1:3

A. John wrote this letter so that Christ may be truly _______________ and the church may be ____________ in fellowship with each other and with Jesus.

B. John proclaims the incarnation because it is only the incarnate Son of God who can actually ______________ the _____________.

C. We know of love from God because of what he _______________ does for us.

Scripture Readings
1 John 1:1-4

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
John 1:1-5

It is also certain that the works of redemption and salvation apply to and pertain to Christ not only according to His divine nature but also according to His assumed human nature, and that His person possesses and exercises these activities [birth, miracles, teaching, abuse, crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, etc.] not only according to one but according to both natures.
The Two Natures in Christ, Martin Chemnitz

For it was Jesus Christ who suffered for us, who died and rose, who descended and ascended, the Son of God who became the Son of man, as the very name signifies....For if He did not suffer, there is no thanks to Him, since there was no Passion. And we have been deceived by Him, who exhorts us to endure what He did not endure Himself.
Against Heresies, Irenaeus (a great Church father). This was in response to those heretics who denied the incarnation of Jesus because they did not believe God could enter into suffering.

Love: Getting to Know John

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/26/2009 -- John 21:20-25 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.
1 John 4:16

1. Love is not...

(a)

(b)

(c)

2. According to John, the apostle of love, __________ is love.

3. John's response to the false love in this world is the __________ of ___________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 12:1-6
Acts 3:11-21,4:1-4
John 21:20-25

Take It With You!

As we spend our Summer growing in the love of God, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through 1 John daily. Here helpful insights will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Love

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.
1 Corinthians 14:4-10

Divine love is Gift-love. The Father gives all He is and has to the Son. The Son gives Himself back to the Father, and gives Himself to the world, and for the world to the Father, and thus gives the world (Himself) back to the Father too... But man's love for God, from the very nature of the case, must always be very largely, and must often be entirely, a Need-love. This is obvious when we implore forgiveness for our sins or support in our tribulations. But in the long run it is perhaps even more apparent in our growing - for it ought to be growing-awareness that our whole being by its very nature is one vast need; incomplete, preparatory, empty yet cluttered, crying out for Him who can untie things that are knotted together and tie up things that are dangling loose.
C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves

Jesus Lifted High Over Moorpark Is Faith's Glorious Rising

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Dennis Bradshaw) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/19/2009 -- Isaiah 60:1-7, John 3:7-16 -- Pastor Dennis Bradshaw

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 60:1-7
Acts 4:32-35
John 3:7-16

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Who's Afraid of an Empty Tomb?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/12/2009 -- Mark 16:1-8 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. Mark 16:6

1. He is risen! This is the greatest news of all time! So, why would it cause anyone to ____________?

2. The women trembled because the body of Jesus was ____________.

3. We fear the empty tomb because Jesus, who is more powerful than ____________, claims to be Lord over us and is, in fact, our ________. And we don't want a ________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 25:6-9
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Mark 16:1-8

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ!

1 Corinthians 15:16-26 For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him. Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.

What creation needs is neither abandonment nor evolution but rather redemption and renewal; and this is both promised and guaranteed by the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This is what the whole world's waiting for!
N. T. Wright, Surprised by Hope.

He is risen! He is risen, indeed!

Good Friday: Surely this Man Was the Son of God!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/10/2009 -- Mark 15:38-39 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Mark 15:1-15
Isaiah 52:13-53:12
Hebrews 4:14-16;5:7-10
Mark 15:16-39

Maundy Thursday: Promises, Promises

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/9/2009 -- Exodus 24:3-11 and Mark 14:12-26 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Exodus 24:3-11
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
Mark 14:12-26

Sacred Head, Now Wounded: The Wound of Abandonment

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:00:00 -0700

4/1/2009 -- Matthew 27:45-50 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Jeremiah 30:10-17
Hebrews 11:32-12:4
Matthew 27:45-50

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Preparing for Burial

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/29/2009 -- Mark 14:1-11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. Mark 14:8

We can approach Christ in one of three ways:

1. ____________ - ... and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest and kill him. Mark 14:1b

2. ____________ - Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold for more than a years wages and the money given to the poor." Mark 14:4-5a

3. ____________ - "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing for me." Mark 14:6b

Scripture Readings
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Hebrews 5:1-10
Mark 14:1-11

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Coming to Christ

Isaiah 55:1-2 "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and your soul will delight in the richest of fare.

[We] maintain that, properly and truly, by faith itself we are regarded as righteous for Christ's sake, that is, we are acceptable to God. And because 'to be justified' means that out of unrighteous people righteous people are made or regenerated, it also means that they are pronounced or regarded as righteous.
Apology to the Augsburg Confession: Article IV - Justification

But one should take the royal road, and sin should be shunned. For although God has promised pardon, as Augustine says, yet He does not promise that you will return after a fall. Thus Saul and Judas do not return. It is not in our power to take hold of grace; nor do you know whether you are able to accept the remission that is offered. Therefore one should fear God. He hates both presumption and despair. "Just as I do not want a sinner," He says, "so I do not want the death of a sinner. But if you have been driven to sin by the wickedness of the devil, and if the Law condemns you and the devil hurls his flaming darts (Ephesians 6:16) at you and tries to drive you to hell, I do not want you to die or to despair. No, I want you to flee for refuge to Christ the Savior, who does not want the death of a sinner, just as He does not want a sinner either."
Martin Luther

Sacred Head, Now Wounded: The Wound of Mockery

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/25/2009 -- Matthew 27:24-31 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Jeremiah 20:7-13
1 Peter 2:13-25
Matthew 27:24-31

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Cursing Trees and Flipping Tables

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/22/2009 -- Mark 11:12-26 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!" Mark 11:21

1. When Jesus curses the tree for not bearing fruit, it symbolizes what is about to happen to the ____________ and all ____________ worship systems.

2. Do you see the church as a place to ____________ and ____________ Jesus, or do you see it as a place to ____________ grace?

3. In Christianity, we do not operate with a ____________ ____________ that gets us to God, rather, in Jesus, God ________ to ________!

Scripture Readings
Numbers 21:4-9
Ephesians 2:1-10
Mark 11:12-26

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on God's Word

Isaiah 55:10-11 As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

Therefore in accordance with the Scriptures we maintain that the church is, properly speaking, the assembly of saints who truly believe the gospel of Christ and have the Holy Spirit. Nevertheless, we admit that in this life many hypocrites and wicked people, who are mixed in with these participate in the outward signs and even hold office in the church. Nor does this detract from the efficacy of the sacraments when they are distributed by the unworthy, because the represent of the person of Christ on account of the call of the church and do not represent their own persons as Christ himself testifies [Luke 10:16], "Whoever listens to you listens to me." When they offer the Word of Christ or the sacraments, they offer them in the stead and place of Christ. Apology of the Augsburg Confession: Articles VII & VIII, The Church.

Sacred Head, Now Wounded: The Wound of Denial

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/18/2009 -- Matthew 26:69-75 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Jeremiah 17:5-18
1 Peter 4:12-19
Matthew 26:69-75

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: The Triumphal Entry

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/15/2009 -- Mark 11:1-11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Mark 11:1-11

1. As we read this section of Mark, it will become evident that Jesus is in __________ the whole time.

2. It is easy for us to concede that God is in control when things go well, but what about when things go __________?

3. We must not equate our lack of ____________ about what God is up to with whether or not God is ____________.

4. Our struggles and trials are ____________ us for what Jesus' struggles and trials earned for us, the ____________ unto ________.

Scripture Readings
Exodus 20:1-17
1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Mark 11:1-11

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Call to Discipleship

Romans 8:28-31 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

Jesus' resurrection triumph puts all life into perspective because it renews, regenerates, re-creates: it gives new life. In the face of every kind of loss - the loss of self-respect to guilt and shame, the loss of home or family to natural disaster and human wickedness, the loss of friends and family through alienation, the loss of meaning for life or security in daily living, the loss of one's identity - we all must be newly created, once again in His image... The message of new creation through Jesus' resurrection delivers the antidote against death and all the warping terror and rage it generates in human life.
-- Robert Kolb, Speaking the Gospel Today.

What is good in any painful experience is, for the sufferer, his submission to the will of God, and, for the spectators, the compassion aroused and the acts of mercy to which it leads.
-- C.S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain.

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Servant of All

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0700

3/8/2009 -- Mark 9:33-37 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." Mark 9:35

1. Status in the Kingdom of God is characterized by ____________ and __________.

2. Jesus is the greatest in the Kingdom because his lowly state on the _________ served __________.

3. As lowly sinners who are forgiven, we are to treat the ____________ as the ____________.

4. No one serves better than ____________.

Scripture Readings
Genesis 17:1-7,15-16
Romans 5:1-11
Mark 9:33-37

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Call to Discipleship

John 13:1-8 It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love. The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. 5After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, "Lord, are you going to wash my feet?" Jesus replied, "You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand." "No," said Peter, "you shall never wash my feet." Jesus answered, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me."

A Christian is the most free lord of all, and subject to none (save God); a Christian is the most dutiful servant of all, and subject to everyone. Concerning Christian Liberty, Martin Luther

This agape love that moves from God-in-Christ through the Christian is initiatory; it does not wait on formal signs of distress to grasp the hand that need holds out. It is disinterested; it does not parcel its efforts out in a quid pro quo. It is universal; it does not observe the limits that human love sets around its own in-group. It is biased towards the lost, the last, and the least, much like parents who lavish love on the needy child even whil loving all their children equally. It invites mutuality; it does not keep the other dependant. It risks forgiveness; it is not bound to a strict reciprocity. Reasonable Ethics, Robert Benne

Sacred Head, Now Wounded: The Wound of Betrayal

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0800

3/4/2009 -- Matthew 26:20-25 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
2 Samuel 15:1-12
Revelation 2:1-7
Matthew 26:20-25

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Lord, I Believe! Help My Unbelief!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 18:00:00 -0800

3/1/2009 -- Mark 9:14-32 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Mark 8:34

1. In this section of Mark, we find that the disciples are examples of what we should ________ ________!

2. ____________ is the voice of __________.

3. The life of discipleship is a life marked by __________.

4. As disciples grow in faith, they become more __________ on Christ, not less.

5. The way to become more faithful in prayer is to focus on __________ and not the praying itself.

Scripture Readings
Genesis 22:1-18
James 1:12-18
Mark 9:14-33

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Call to Discipleship

Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 4:2-4 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.

1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.

We are in such a situation that no one can keep the Ten Commandments perfectly, even though he or she has begun to believe. Besides, the devil, along with the world and our flesh, resists them with all his power. Consequently, nothing is so necessary as a call upon God incessantly and to drum into his ears our prayer that he may give, preserve, and increase in us faith and the fulfillment of the Ten Commandments and remove all that stands in our way and hinds us in this regard. Luther's Large Catechism: Introduction to the Lord's Prayer

Sacred Head, Now Wounded: A Wounded Savior for Wounded People

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 18:00:00 -0800

2/25/2009 -- Joel 2:12-17
Ash Wednesday -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Joel 2:12-17
2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
Matthew 6:1-6,16-21

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Who Do You Say That I Am?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 18:00:00 -0800

2/22/2009 -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. Mark 8:34

1. The problem with Peter's answer to Jesus' question is not that he calls Jesus the Christ, it is that he doesn't __________ what the Christ is here to ______.

2. To see Jesus as a means to an end of any kind is to have in mind the __________ of ________.

3. The __________, __________, and ____________ of Jesus the Christ, these are the things of God!

4. For us, then, __________ is all that matters.

Scripture Readings
2 Kings 2:1-12
2 Corinthians 3:12-4:6
Mark 8:27-38

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Call to Discipleship

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me. Philippians 1:21-26

Jesus must therefore make it clear beyond all doubt that the "must" of suffering applies to his disciples no less than to himself. Just as Christ is Christ only in virtue of his suffering and rejection, so the disciple is a disciple only in so far as he shares his Lord�s suffering and rejection and crucifixion. Discipleship means adherence to the person of Jesus, and therefore submission to the law of Christ which is the law of the cross. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship

The cross is laid on every Christian. The first Christ-suffering which every man must experience is the call to abandon the attachments of this world. It is that dying of the old man which is the result of his encounter with Christ. As we embark upon discipleship we surrender ourselves to Christ in union with his death - we give our lives to death. Thus it begins; the cross is not the terrible end to an otherwise godfearing and happy life, but it meets us at the beginning of our communion with Christ. When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Why Won't They Believe?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 -0800

2/15/2009 -- Mark 4:1-20 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

He told them, "The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, "'they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!'" Mark 4:11-12

1. Jesus has sufficiently __________ Himself. Unbelief is the __________ of the sinner.

2. Three Kinds of "Bad Soil"

(a) Those who hear and don't __________.

(b) Those who hear and flee when __________ arise.

(c) Those who hear and love this __________ more than __________.

3. You are good soil if you have received the ________ __________ from Christ.

Scripture Readings
2 Kings 5:1-14
1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
Mark 4:1-20

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Sowing Seeds

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:10-11

But what does it say? "The word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, "that is, the word of faith we are proclaiming: That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame." For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile -- the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" But not all the Israelites accepted the good news. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed our message?" Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10:8-17

For the sake of the good ground that brings forth fruit with patience, the seed must also fall fruitless by the wayside, on the rock and among the thorns; inasmuch as we are assured that the Word of God does not go forth without bearing some fruit, but it always finds also good ground; as Christ says here, some seed of the sower falls also into good ground, and not only by the wayside, among the thorns and on stony ground. For wherever the Gospel goes you will find Christians. Martin Luther, Sermon on Luke 8:4-15

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Who Is This? Lord Over the Law

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 18:00:00 -0800

2/8/2009 -- Mark 2:23-3:6 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Then he said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." Mark 2:27-28

1. Jesus is not only Lord of the Sabbath, but of the whole ________!

2. The law is not meant to make us ____________.

3. The point of the commandments is to __________ God by ____________ my neighbor.

4. Jesus uses the Sabbath to ________ and ________ lives, even ours!

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 40:21-31
1 Corinthians 9:16-27
Mark 2:23-3:6

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on the Sabbath Day

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. Colossians 2:16

Note, then that the power and force of [the third commandment] consists not in the resting but in the hallowing, so that this day may have its special holy function. Other work and business are really not designated holy activities unless the person doing them is first holy. In this case, however, a work must take place through which a person becomes holy. This work, as we have heard, takes place through God's Word. Places, times, persons, and the entire outward order of worship have therefore been instituted and appointed in order that God's Word may exert its power publicly. Martin Luther, The Large Catechism, (On the Third Commandment)

Sabbath is not primarily about us or how it benefits us; it is about God and how God forms us. It is not, in the first place, about what we do or don't do; it is about God completing and resting and blessing and sanctifying. These are all things we don't know much about; they are beyond us but not beyond our recognition and participation. But it does mean stopping and being quiet long enough to see, open-eyed with wonder - resurrection wonder. As we stand or sit in surprised and open receptivity to what is beyond us, what we cannot control, we cultivate the fear-of-the-Lord. Our souls are formed by what we cannot work up or take charge of: We respond and enter into what the resurrection of Jesus continues to do on the foundations of creation, our work and workplace. Eugene Peterson, Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places: A Conversation in Spiritual Theology

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Who Is This? Lord Over Tradition

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 18:00:00 -0800

2/1/2009 -- Mark 2:18-22 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Jesus answered, "How can the guests of the bridegroom fast while he is with them? They cannot, so long as they have him with them. But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and on that day they will fast.Mark 2:19-20

1. Jesus is the Lord over __________. That means He is the ________ of Israel's fasting.

2. Tradition can be dangerous if it becomes a way to prove ________ - ______________.

3. Tradition can be a blessing if it __________ ____________.

Scripture Readings
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Mark 2:18-22

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Traditions in the Church

Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you for the prize. Such a person goes into great detail about what he has seen, and his unspiritual mind puffs him up with idle notions. He has lost connection with the Head, from whom the whole body, supported and held together by its ligaments and sinews, grows as God causes it to grow. Colossians 2:16-19

Concerning church regulations made by human beings, it is taught to keep those that may be kept without sin and that server to maintain peace and good order in the church, such as specific celebrations, festivals, etc. However, people are also instructed not to burden consciences with them as if such things were necessary for salvation. The Augsburg Confession: Article XV on Church Regulations

The underlying motivations for both traditionalism and innovation are a sense of homelessness and a sense of lostness. In our fast-paced and ever-changing culture of insanity, many Christians are prone either to cling to yesterday or to run headlong into tomorrow searching for a home. What's our goal? Not to perpetuate a tradition or embrace an innovation. The goal... is Jesus, to faithfully walk with him on each step of our journey as we head toward the home he has prepared for us. Mark Driscoll, The Radical Reformission

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: Who Is This? Lord of Creation

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 18:00:00 -0800

1/25/2009 -- Mark 4:35-41 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!" Mark 4:41

1. God is ____________ over all He created, including you and me!

2. Who is Jesus? The ____________ ________ over all creation!

3. Jesus uses His sovereign authority to ________ __________.

Scripture Readings
Jonah 3:1-5,10
1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Mark 4:35-41

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Sovereignty and Creation

Then the LORD answered Job out of the storm. He said: "Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone -- while the morning stars sang together and all the angels shouted for joy? Who shut up the sea behind doors when it burst forth from the womb, when I made the clouds its garment and wrapped it in thick darkness, when I fixed limits for it and set its doors and bars in place? Job 38:1-10

Whoever wishes to be righteous before God through his ethical achievement assumes the place of the creator. Creating righteousness, destroying sin, and giving life - these are all the work of the creator alone. Paul Althaus, The Theology of Marting Luther

We like to think of ourselves as human beings, beings with autonomy and independence all our own. The Scriptures present us as human creatures, creatures who have their origin in the hand of God. Robert Kolb, Speaking the Gospel Today

And God placed all things under his (Jesus') feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Ephesians 1:22-23

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: A Response Is Given

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 18:00:00 -0800

1/18/2009 -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

"The time has come," [Jesus] said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" Mark 1:15

The Call of the Disciple:

1. Jesus calls us to join Him in His mission. He does not __________ us, but He loves us and __________ us to join Him!

2. Jesus __________ you where you are and He ____________ you!

3. Jesus does not wait for your response to His approach, He __________ you!

4. And disciples follow without ____________, though with ____________.

Scripture Readings
1 Samuel 3:1-10
1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Mark 1:14-20

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Discipleship

Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." Matthew 9:35-38

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels." Mark 8:34-38

Because Jesus is the Christ, he has the authority to call and to demand obedience to his word. Jesus summons men to follow him not as a teacher or a pattern of the good life, but as the Christ, the Son of God. In this short text Jesus Christ and his claim are proclaimed to men. Not a word of praise is given the disciple for his decision for Christ. We are not called to contemplate the disciple, but only him who calls, and his absolute authority. According to our text there is no road to faith or discipleship, no other road -- only obedience to the call of Jesus. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: A Life Baptized

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 18:00:00 -0800

1/11/2009 -- Mark 1:9-13 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead. When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. Colossians 2:11-13

1. In our baptism, God brings an __________ to the reign of death and sin by __________ us with Christ in His death and He __________ us with Christ in His resurrection.

2. As those who are identified with Christ in baptism, we receive what Christ received: God's Word of ____________.

3. As soon as you are identified as a child of God, you are also identified as an __________ of __________.

4. God's baptismal ____________ drown out the ________ of the devil.

Scripture Readings
Genesis 1:1-5
Romans 6:1-11
Mark 1:9-13

Take It With You!

As we follow Christ from His baptism to His cross and empty tomb, it will be helpful for everyone to be reading through the Gospel of Mark daily. Here helpful tools will be offered to aid in your study.

Quotes on Baptism

For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also - not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It (baptism) saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand - with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him. 1 Peter 3:18-22

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. Titus 3:4-8a

For to be baptized in the name of God is to be baptized not by men, but by God Himself. Therefore, although it is performed by human hands, it is nevertheless truly God's own work. From this fact every one may himself readily infer that it is a far higher work than any work performed by a man or a saint. For what work greater than the work of God can we do? Martin Luther, The Large Catechism: Part 4 Concerning Baptism

A Savior, Discipleship, and a Cross: The Beginning of the Gospel

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 18:00:00 -0800

1/4/2009 -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
1 Kings 3:4-15
Ephesians 1:3-14
Mark 1:1-8

Christmas: It's Only the Beginning

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 18:00:00 -0800

12/25/2008 -- Matthew 2:13-15 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 52:7-10
Hebrews 1:1-12
John 1:1-14
Matthew 2:13-15

Christmas: It's All About the Getting!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 18:00:00 -0800

12/24/2008 -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 9:2-7
Titus 2:11-14
Luke 2:1-20

Take It With You!

This month we are going to read through some of the prophecies about the coming of Christ found in Isaiah the prophet. Please consider reading through that book as you prepare for Christmas. Here is a way of understanding what is happening in the prophets:

When we read the Old Testament we see, much like the season of Advent, the whole thing is written in anticipation for the coming of Christ. We see this most explicitly in the books of the prophets. Much like a movie preview, the prophets are giving us snippets of the full length feature that is to come. As we read through them we get an idea of what kind of Savior the Israelites were waiting for.

No where do we get a clearer preview of the coming Messiah than in the book of Isaiah. This is one of the most important books in the Old Testament for helping us understand Christ. It has often been called "the fifth Gospel" because it so clearly lays out for us what Jesus will do in the Gospels. For the authors of the New Testament, it is one of the most formative books they have. No prophet is reference more than Isaiah, with 85 references to chapter 53 alone! So, this is a pretty important book and trying to discuss it in four weeks doesn't do it any justice. But, what we hope to accomplish here is getting an idea of why the Old Testament believers anticipated a Messiah and what the nature of that Messiah was. For their savior is our savior, their Christ is our Christ. We have faith in the same Jesus, they looked forward and we look back. So, we will see that the story previewed in Isaiah is the greatest full length feature ever seen!

What Was Spoken through the Prophet Isaiah: To Us A Child is Born!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 18:00:00 -0800

12/21/2008 -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 9:2-7
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

Take It With You!

This month we are going to read through some of the prophecies about the coming of Christ found in Isaiah the prophet. Please consider reading through that book as you prepare for Christmas. Here is a way of understanding what is happening in the prophets:

When we read the Old Testament we see, much like the season of Advent, the whole thing is written in anticipation for the coming of Christ. We see this most explicitly in the books of the prophets. Much like a movie preview, the prophets are giving us snippets of the full length feature that is to come. As we read through them we get an idea of what kind of Savior the Israelites were waiting for.

No where do we get a clearer preview of the coming Messiah than in the book of Isaiah. This is one of the most important books in the Old Testament for helping us understand Christ. It has often been called "the fifth Gospel" because it so clearly lays out for us what Jesus will do in the Gospels. For the authors of the New Testament, it is one of the most formative books they have. No prophet is reference more than Isaiah, with 85 references to chapter 53 alone! So, this is a pretty important book and trying to discuss it in four weeks doesn't do it any justice. But, what we hope to accomplish here is getting an idea of why the Old Testament believers anticipated a Messiah and what the nature of that Messiah was. For their savior is our savior, their Christ is our Christ. We have faith in the same Jesus, they looked forward and we look back. So, we will see that the story previewed in Isaiah is the greatest full length feature ever seen!

What Was Spoken through the Prophet Isaiah: God's Favor!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 18:00:00 -0800

12/14/2008 -- Isaiah 61:1-4,8-11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10

1. We have a God who is in the business of __________ us from unbelief to __________.

2. We too live under the oppressive __________ of our ____________ everyday.

3. Jesus comes to move us ________ of our sinful, spiritual poverty and carry us to God's __________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 61:1-4,8-11
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8,19-28

Take It With You!

This month we are going to read through some of the prophecies about the coming of Christ found in Isaiah the prophet. Please consider reading through that book as you prepare for Christmas. Here is a way of understanding what is happening in the prophets:

When we read the Old Testament we see, much like the season of Advent, the whole thing is written in anticipation for the coming of Christ. We see this most explicitly in the books of the prophets. Much like a movie preview, the prophets are giving us snippets of the full length feature that is to come. As we read through them we get an idea of what kind of Savior the Israelites were waiting for.

No where do we get a clearer preview of the coming Messiah than in the book of Isaiah. This is one of the most important books in the Old Testament for helping us understand Christ. It has often been called "the fifth Gospel" because it so clearly lays out for us what Jesus will do in the Gospels. For the authors of the New Testament, it is one of the most formative books they have. No prophet is reference more than Isaiah, with 85 references to chapter 53 alone! So, this is a pretty important book and trying to discuss it in four weeks doesn't do it any justice. But, what we hope to accomplish here is getting an idea of why the Old Testament believers anticipated a Messiah and what the nature of that Messiah was. For their savior is our savior, their Christ is our Christ. We have faith in the same Jesus, they looked forward and we look back. So, we will see that the story previewed in Isaiah is the greatest full length feature ever seen!

What Was Spoken through the Prophet Isaiah: Comfort, Comfort!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 18:00:00 -0800

12/07/2008 -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD's hand double for all her sins. Isaiah 40:1-2

I. The only place to find comfort before God is in His __________ of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.

II. The Word of God is comforting because it...

a. prepares us for His coming by __________ sin.

b. stands __________ and never __________.

c. delivers Jesus to us who is a mighty __________ and loving __________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 40:1-11
2 Peter 3:8-14
Mark 1:1-8

Take It With You!

This month we are going to read through some of the prophecies about the coming of Christ found in Isaiah the prophet. Please consider reading through that book as you prepare for Christmas. Here is a way of understanding what is happening in the prophets:

When we read the Old Testament we see, much like the season of Advent, the whole thing is written in anticipation for the coming of Christ. We see this most explicitly in the books of the prophets. Much like a movie preview, the prophets are giving us snippets of the full length feature that is to come. As we read through them we get an idea of what kind of Savior the Israelites were waiting for.

No where do we get a clearer preview of the coming Messiah than in the book of Isaiah. This is one of the most important books in the Old Testament for helping us understand Christ. It has often been called "the fifth Gospel" because it so clearly lays out for us what Jesus will do in the Gospels. For the authors of the New Testament, it is one of the most formative books they have. No prophet is reference more than Isaiah, with 85 references to chapter 53 alone! So, this is a pretty important book and trying to discuss it in four weeks doesn't do it any justice. But, what we hope to accomplish here is getting an idea of why the Old Testament believers anticipated a Messiah and what the nature of that Messiah was. For their savior is our savior, their Christ is our Christ. We have faith in the same Jesus, they looked forward and we look back. So, we will see that the story previewed in Isaiah is the greatest full length feature ever seen!

What Was Spoken through the Prophet Isaiah: Come Down!

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 18:00:00 -0800

11/30/2008 -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Do not be angry beyond measure, O LORD; do not remember our sins forever. Oh, look upon us, we pray, for we are all your people. Isaiah 64:9

1. God helps the __________, but we are __________. How then can we be saved?

2. Our sinful condition __________ us from God.

3. We need God to come to use and not ________ us what we __________.

4. Jesus comes down to us as a ________ to ________ and __________ our relationship with God.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 64:1-9
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 11:1-10

Take It With You!

This month we are going to read through some of the prophecies about the coming of Christ found in Isaiah the prophet. Please consider reading through that book as you prepare for Christmas. Here is a way of understanding what is happening in the prophets from this week's sermon:

When we read the Old Testament we see, much like the season of Advent, the whole thing is written in anticipation for the coming of Christ. We see this most explicitly in the books of the prophets. Much like a movie preview, the prophets are giving us snippets of the full length feature that is to come. As we read through them we get an idea of what kind of Savior the Israelites were waiting for.

No where do we get a clearer preview of the coming Messiah than in the book of Isaiah. This is one of the most important books in the Old Testament for helping us understand Christ. It has often been called "the fifth Gospel" because it so clearly lays out for us what Jesus will do in the Gospels. For the authors of the New Testament, it is one of the most formative books they have. No prophet is reference more than Isaiah, with 85 references to chapter 53 alone! So, this is a pretty important book and trying to discuss it in four weeks doesn't do it any justice. But, what we hope to accomplish here is getting an idea of why the Old Testament believers anticipated a Messiah and what the nature of that Messiah was. For their savior is our savior, their Christ is our Christ. We have faith in the same Jesus, they looked forward and we look back. So, we will see that the story previewed in Isaiah is the greatest full length feature ever seen!

What Does the Bible Say About the Environment?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 18:00:00 -0800

11/23/2008 -- Psalm 148:1-14 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. Psalm 24:1-2

1. The earth is good because God __________ it.

2. The earth is good because God __________ a ________ of it.

3. The earth is good because God will __________ it.

Scripture Readings
Psalm 148:1-14
1 Corinthians 15:20-28
Matthew 25:31-46

What Does the Bible Say About Wealth and Poverty?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:00:00 -0800

11/16/2008 -- Matthew 19:16-26 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

1. The commandments not only call us not to harm our neighbors, but to care for them in the ________ ________ we care for __________.

2. The world is dying of __________ and __________ and needs to be ________ and __________.

3. If we are truly going to __________ __________ as Christians, we need to consider the lives of our __________ neighbors.

4. It is __________ for the rich to save themselves. What is possible is God, who is rich in mercy, giving up His __________ to save even the ________.

Scripture Readings
Zephaniah 1:7-16
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Matthew 19:16-26

Take It With You!

Here are some helpful websites to visit as you consider how you might be able to help the poor and hungry.

* Bread for the World: www.bread.org
* Feed the Children: www.feedthechildren.org
* Food for the Hungry: www.fh.org
* Food for the Poor: www.foodforthepoor.org
* The Heifer Project: www.heifer.org
* Lutheran World Mission: www.lcmsworldmission.org
* Lutheran World Relief: www.lcms.org/worldrelief
* World Vision: www.worldvision.org

Resource Recommendations:

* Read Luther's explanation of the 10 Commandments in the Large Catechism

What Does the Bible Say About Life and Death?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 18:00:00 -0800

11/9/2008 -- Exodus 1:8-22 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Psalm 139:13

1. Since God created every life, every life has ____________.

2. Since God has given __________ to every life, we are to __________ every life.

3. As God's creatures we are not __________ to live for ourselves, but we have ____________ towards one another.

Scripture Readings
Exodus 1:8-22
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13

Take It With You!

Here are some helpful quotes to consider as we deal with the growing epidemic of the murder of the unborn. Also, please consider some of the resources for your own reading.

"Destruction of the embryo in te mother's womb is a violation of the right to live which God has bestowed on this nascent life. To raise the question whether we are here concerned already with a human being or not is merely to confuse the issue. The simple fact is that God certainly intended to create a human being and that this nascent human being has been deliberately deprived of his life. And that is nothing but murder."
Dietrich Bonehoeffer

"How can infanticide be wrong and abortion be a basic right? Both mean the killing of a baby, and both represent the Culture of Death at its most deadly."
Dr. R. Albert Mohler, Jr., President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Resource Recommendations:

"There are many people hurting all around you, silently suffering from abuse and abortion. Many don't know that we are here to help ... for more information ... or if you need to take the first step to recovery, please call (888) 217-8679."
Grace Kern, Director of Word of Hope, the post-abortion healing ministry of Lutherans For Life.

Randy Alcorn, Pro-Life Answers to Pro-Choice Arguments. Multnomah Publishers, Sisters, OR. 2000.

www.lutheransforlife.org

What Does the Bible Say About Homosexuality?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 18:00:00 -0800

11/2/2008 -- Romans 1:18-32 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. Matthew 7:4-5

How is the church to respond to the issue of homosexuality?

Wrong Answer #1: ____________ the homosexual ____________.

Wrong Answer #2: ____________ toward the __________.

Right Answer: __________ __________.

Scripture Readings
Revelation 7:9-17
Romans 1:18-32
Matthew 5:1-12

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the sermon text daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. Read Romans 1:18-32. Why is homosexuality considered a sin? How does it undercut God's creation?

2. Before we come down too hard on homosexuals, read the list of sins that are counter to God's design in Romans 1:38-31. For which of these are you guilty? Why is it important to read Romans 2:1-4 immediately after this first section?

3. Read John 4:1-42. How might the story of Jesus' talking with the woman at the well help inform the way we as the church deal with the sin of homosexuality?

4. Too often the church is know almost exclusively as an "anti-gay" institution. What is wrong with this? How does such a reputation stunt mission? For what (or better for whom) should the church be known?

Book Recommendation:
Mark Driscoll, The Radical Reformission. Zondervan: Grand Rapids, MI. 2004.

What Does the Bible Say About Politics?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 18:00:00 -0700

10/26/2008 -- Romans 13:1-7 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Romans 13:1

A. God works in two ways in the world:

1. He works through the __________ to bring __________. (Right Hand Realm)

2. He works through the __________ to bring __________. (Left Hand Realm)

B. Jesus doesn't come to be an earthly __________, and so his followers shouldn't seek to make his church an earthly __________.

C. As Christian citizens we have ____________ in both realms, though these differ in nature.

Scripture Readings
Revelation 14:6-7
Romans 13:1-7
John 8:31-36

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the sermon text daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. Read Romans 13:1-7. Since God is behind government, does that make the government a good or a bad thing?

2. According to Romans 13:1-7, what is the responsibility of secular authorities? Read Matthew 28:19-20. How do the responsibilities of the church differ from those of the state?

3. What is wrong with pastors promoting candidates or candidates preaching on Sunday mornings from the pulpit? How does this confuse the right hand and left hand realms?

Book Recommendation:
Martin Luther, "On Secular Authority: To What Extent It Should Be Obeyed."

Renewing Your Mind: Viewing the World from a Biblical Perspective

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 18:00:00 -0700

10/19/2008 -- Romans 12:1-2 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-- his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

I. We live in a world where we bow down to a god named __________.

II. We need the idol of Self ____________. We need to ________!

III. Jesus comes to ____________ the idol of my Holy Wants, Needs, and Feelings and replace it with __________!

IV. We who have died to our sinful selves and have been given a new life in Christ are __________ __________ to God!

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 45:1-7
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 22:15-22

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the sermon text daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. Eugene Peterson in his wonderful book "Eat This Book" says, "The three-personal Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is replaced by a very individualized personal trinity of my Holy Wants, my Holy Needs, and my Holy Feelings." What do you think about this? Where do you see this happening?

2. Paul tells us that we need to BE transformed by the renewing of our mind. That is, God must be the one to do this to us. Read Romans 6:1-18, and 1 Timothy 3:16. In what ways does God come to us to destroy the idol of Self and transform us?

3. What are some ways you can receive God's life transforming message on a regular basis?

Book Recommendation:
Eugene H. Peterson, "Eat This Book." Eerdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids, MI. 2006.

Talking About Jesus: How?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 18:00:00 -0700

10/12/2008 -- Luke 10:1-11,16-17 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

"He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me." Luke 10:16

How to Talk About Jesus

I. Know your __________.

II. Know your __________.

III. Know your __________.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 25:6-9
Philippians 4:4-13
Luke 10:1-11,16-17

Take It With You!

As you learn your message, your neighbor, and your self, you will need to be equipped with good resources to help you talk about Jesus. Here are a number of books and magazines that will help you as you set out on your mission! If these resources interest you, please see Pastor Bob to get them and others into your hands!

The Bible, the Bible, the Bible!!!
Mark Driscoll, "Radical Reformission"
Bill Hybels, "Becoming A Contagious Christian"
Robert A. Kolb, "Speaking the Gospel Today"
C. S. Lewis, "Mere Christianity"
Paul E. Little, "Know Why You Believe", "Know What You Believe", "Know Who You Believe"
John Warwick Montgomery, "History and Christianity"
Lee Strobel, "The Case for Christ"
Modern Reformation Magazine (also, download the associated radio program "The White Horse Inn" at www.whitehorseinn.org
The Christian Research Journal (also, download the associated radio program "The Bible Answer Man" at www.equip.org

Talking About Jesus: Why?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 18:00:00 -0700

10/05/2008 -- Luke 5:17-26 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

"But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins..." He said to the paralyzed man, "I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home." Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Luke 5:24-25

I. Why did the men work so hard to get their friend to Jesus?
They __________ that Jesus was the only person who could help them.

II. Why does Jesus forgive the man before healing him?
From God's perspective, being __________ ________ is worse than any physical problem.

III. Why do we talk about Jesus to our friends?
________ is our biggest problem and the word of __________ from Christ is our only hope.

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 5:1-7
Philippians 3:4b-14
Luke 5:17-26

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the given texts in Luke daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. Read the story in Luke 5:17-24. Why do you think the friends were so eager to get this man to Jesus? What are some creative ways you can think of to bring your friends to Jesus?

2. The fact that Jesus forgave this man's sins is shocking to everyone in the story. Why is it shocking to the Pharisees? Why do you think it is shocking to the paralyzed man and his friends? What is so shocking about the fact that Jesus forgave this man's sins to you? Does it shock you that He forgives you? Why?

3. After this amazing scene, everyone leaves talking about what wonderful things they had seen. Every Sunday you receive God's gifts of love and forgiveness through His Word and in His sacraments. Amazing things happen to you. How can you bring such wonderful things up as you leave church and go back into your everyday life?

Talking About Jesus: Where?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 18:00:00 -0700

9/28/2008 -- Luke 4:42-5:11 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

But [Jesus] said, "I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent." Luke 4:43

I. Wherever we go, people are ________ because of sin.

II. In order to get on the right path we need someone to come __________ us.

III. Jesus is not __________ in some place where we have to ________ Him. He ________ us with His __________!

Scripture Readings
Ezekiel 18:1-4,25-32
Philippians 2:1-4,14-18
Luke 4:42-5:11

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the given texts in Luke daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. In Luke 4:43 Jesus says that He must go into many places to preach the Gospel. What are some places you believe Christ might be calling you to talk about the Good News of what He has done for the world?

2. Notice how Jesus not only talks about His mission in the synagogue (Luke 4:44) but also by the sea in a place of business (Luke 5:1). Why is it so easy for us to leave our talk of Jesus at church? How might you bring up the Good News with people at your work or school?

3. What do you think it means to be fishers of men? What other analogy can you think of in our modern terms that could be used to describe the bringing of many people into the kingdom?

4. Notice that the Kingdom is spread through the Word Jesus spoke (Luke 4:43). If the Kingdom is spread through speaking the Word, how can you take part in spreading that Kingdom?

Talking About Jesus: When?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 18:00:00 -0700

9/21/2008 -- Luke 12:42-48 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48b

I. The question of "When should I talk about Jesus" centers around the question of "When will Jesus __________?"

II. If we believe that Christ could return at any moment, like He says, then we will be about the business of His household ________.

III. Those who did not believe in the Master's return lived as if it would never happen so when he returned they were not __________ and __________.

IV. When should we begin to share what God has placed in our hands? Your answer: ____________

Scripture Readings
Isaiah 55:6-9
Philippians 1:12-14,19-30
Luke 12:42-48

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the given texts in Luke daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. What do you think of Jesus' parable in Luke 12:42-48. How does it convict, comfort, or challenge you?

2. If Jesus' return is imminent, then it is important for us to be prepared. God prepares us for His return by pouring His salvation in our hearts in our baptism where we receive what Christ won for us on the cross. What are some ways we can go and prepare others for Christ's coming?

3. What is preventing you from speaking about Jesus now? Pray to God that He will give you the strength, wisdom and conviction to be bold in proclaiming His Word.

4. Remember, that Christ died to forgive you for all your sins, including the sinful fear of sharing your faith. Rejoice in the forgiveness that is yours in Christ Jesus!

Talking About Jesus: What?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 18:00:00 -0700

9/14/2008 -- Luke 24:36-49 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

He told them, "This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. Luke 24:46-47

I. What is our purpose in talking about Christ?
To have the world come to ________ in the crucified and resurrected Jesus as their ________ and ________.

II. What are we to say to everyone?
We are to proclaim ________ and ________ of ________ in His name.

III. What do I saw to those who are comfortable in their sin?
We are to call them to __________.

IV. What do I say to those who are broken by their sin?
They have been ________ to God's favor, and God will love them on ________ of ________ for eternity.

V. What to say to those broken by the effects of sin?
Christ enters into our __________ and will carry us through to a ________ __________!

Scripture Readings
Genesis 50:15-21
Romans 14:1-12
Luke 24:36-49

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the given texts in Luke daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. In Luke 24:36-49 Jesus appears to the disciples after He has risen from the dead! What proof does He offer them that He is not a ghost, but a real, resurrected person?

2. Jesus tells us that repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations (Luke 24:47). We have faith as a result of this preaching. We are now called to spread the Good News to those who don't know it. As we discussed in the sermon, some people need to repent, some people need to hear of God's hope. How can you know what people need to hear? What steps will you have to take in order to get the right part of the message to the right person?

3. What sins do you hold onto that you need to repent of? What comfort do you find in the Gospel of your forgiveness? What are the effects of sin you suffer with? How can each of these answers help shape the way you share the Gospel?

Talking About Jesus: Who?

podcast@faithmoorpark.com (Pastor Bob Hiller) — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 18:00:00 -0700

9/7/2008 -- Luke 7:1-16 -- Pastor Bob Hiller

They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people." Luke 7:1-16

I. Who is Jesus? Jesus is ________ in __________ __________ who has come to help His people.

II. Who did Jesus come to help? God has come in Christ to help ________ __________.

III. Who am I to talk about Jesus? You are one of these people from whom Jesus ________ __________.

Scripture Readings
Ezekiel 33:7-9
Romans 13:1-10
Luke 7:1-16

Take It With You!

During this series please consider reading through the given texts in Luke daily with your family or on your own. After each sermon, questions will be provided to guide your reading and prayer time. God's blessings in your study!

1. The most important question we can ever ask (and answer!) is, "Who is Jesus?" The answer to this is critical for our life and salvation. A good place to start answering this question is in the Apostle's Creed. CHALLENGE: Read through one gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) and write down every title that is given to Jesus. This will help you understand more clearly who He is!

2. We saw in Luke 7:1-16 that Jesus comes for all people: rich and poor, blessed and stricken, etc. We recognize in the great commission (Matthew 28:19-20) that we are to make disciples of ALL people through baptism and teaching. Who do you know that needs to hear of God's love for them in Christ? What are some ways you can begin to tell them?

3. How does it help you to know that God came for you in Jesus Christ? What comfort is there in the knowledge of God's grace and love that He has poured out upon you?