Inspirations-St. Rest Baptist Church Los Angeles, CA

The Mission of the Church

2011-03-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

In his sermon on February 20, 2011, Pastor Collins spoke from Matthew 28:18-20, “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

As he has promised, Jesus meets his disciples on a mountain in Galilee. They worshipped him, though some doubted. Jesus claims all authority in heaven and on earth and then commissions his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit and teaching them all he has commanded.

The mission is clearly stated and entrusted to the disciples, and to readers of the Gospel, who are obedient to the Lord’s command carry on the Lord’s mission with the promise of his presence and power. He commissioned the Disciples to go and make disciples for the kingdom just as he had done. The disciples’ community is authorized to “teach” in his name and is entrusted with “the works” of Jesus and the promise to be with us always to the end of the age.

by: Ahmad Stevenson
written for my 8th grade
Religion Class Essay

Discovering A Way in the Wilderness

2011-02-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference: Genesis 21:17-20

¹⁷ God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. ¹⁸ Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.”
¹⁹ Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink.
²⁰ God was with the boy as he grew up. He lived in the desert and became an archer. ²¹ While he was living in the Desert of Paran, his mother got a wife for him from Egypt.

In this scripture we see that God's pity is greater than ours. Ishmael's moans and his cries pierce the heart of God. Vs.17 tells us "God heard the boy crying." The omniscient God hears every sound in the world. God, who revealed Himself to Hagar telling her Ishmael is alive, and promised, "I will make him into a great nation," God sees life flow through Ishmael for generations to come. God tells Hagar that He needs Ishmael as a link to future generations.

When God opened her eyes Hagar saw a well of water. Sadness and sorrow often have a blinding effect on us, cutting us off from reality. During times of gloom and despair the devil finds it easy to manipulate our feelings. This is why it is important that we praise God when misery and disaster falls upon us. Worshipping him will keep us in touch with reality. The well is there, the only thing we need is an eye-opener.

Isaiah 6:10 gives a clear picture of sin: It “Make the heart of this people callused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn and be healed.” Isaiah was to awaken the people of Israel to the reality of their sinful condition. Sorrow, dejection and despair can have the same effect on us because they are an offspring of sin.

When God leaves us destitute of his direction and takes away his grace from us, we must ask, not only that he would bestow upon us such things as will be useful to us. That he will also teach caution to enable us to use them; otherwise, it will be our lot to faint, with closed eyes, in the midst of fountains.

Meeting God on the Mountain

2011-01-12T13:22:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference:
Genesis Chapter 31

There once was a man and a mountain. On that mountain, the man encounteed God and shared that experience, as best he could, with his brothers.

Jacob had been on the run when Laban, his father-in-law, caught up with him. It was not a pleasant encounter, but they talked things out. On the mountain, Jacob and Laban made peace and built a heap between them. Then they parted, having taken an oath in the Name of th God of Abraham.

Then, Jacob worshipped God. He did so by making a sacrifice. He did so freely, not out of compulsion.

What if we were to mark great events in our life with worship?

Finally, they tarried. There was not hurry about getting off the mountain. there was no complusion to leave. The time of fleeing was past. It was time to tarry.

What if we slowed down and celebrated the presence of God? What if we took time to enjoy each other's company? What if we were not in such a hurry?

Hurry was the characteristic of Jacob's flight from Laban's pursuit. It was no longer necessary. He was free to worship, fellowship and tarry.

God is willing and able to bring this kind of peace and quiet to our lives as well, if we let Him.

Source: Master Sunday Bulletins
http://www.mastersundaybullentins.com/

2010-12-04T14:54:00.000-08:00

Holy Scripture tells this story about the wise men and the child Jesus:

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him."

When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, "In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, 'And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, art not the least among the princes of Judah: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.'"

Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, "Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also."

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him."

When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

(Matthew 2:1-15, KJV)

Recognize Where Your Help Comes From

2010-11-29T11:19:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference:
Psalm 121 (NIV)

1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

Three times each year, the men of Israel were to go to the temple and present themselves before the Lord. (See Deut. 16:16). The fifteen Psalms (120 through 134) are the songs of degrees, meaning, elevation, a journey to a higher place or go up, were to be sung as they ascended the temple mount.

The first verse is referring to the City of Jerusalem located in the hill country of Israel. This city was the place that God had designated as His (See 2Chr. 6:6). Mount Zion, Moriah, and Olives are all names associated with the city of Jerusalem. The author is lifting his eyes to the one place designated as God’s dwelling place on earth.

“I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain” Joel 3:17. The Psalmist was not expecting help from the hills; he was expecting help from God. Many times when we pray, we raise our eyes toward heaven the place were our savior lives. However, God dwells in the believer through the Holy Spirit.

Believers should remember that our help comes from God the creator and master of the universe. God is our protector, in this scripture help mean to depend on Him. He is aware of each believer’s spiritual needs.

Satan never lets up he looks for every opportunity to attach. Nevertheless, God is forever present “He neither slumber nor sleep”. When night comes, our guard is down and we become confronted with temptation, do not worry you are not alone. God is there He is vigilant and will deliver and protect us.

This scripture tells us that God is forever, He never leaves us whether day or night. He has a hedge around us protecting us from all evil. He protects us from harm in the physical and spiritual existence. God is invincible, for the faithful it is impossible for the enemy to attack.

Christian friends we can trust in God completely for protection and guidance. “The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time for the, and even for evermore.” God is with us for now and until the end shielding us from all harm.

by: Barbara Stevenson

What A Blessing !

2010-11-13T22:02:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference
Ephesians 2:1-6
1As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. 4But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. 6And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,

All of us at one time were the walking dead; we were controlled by the flesh, being used by Satan. Until we accepted Jesus in our lives, we were the devil’s tools on earth. In Ephesians 2:1-3, Paul reminds the Ephesians that they were followers of Lucifer doing his bidding on earth.

Believers today forget that they were once under enemy control; that as sinners we were doomed, separated from God. “Gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts” (verse 3). We must realize that as saints we have a new life we are born again; set apart for God’s use.

So many of us feel that because we attend church it is a reason to be treated special. We have the impression that God should be excited that we choose his side; with all of our old baggage; all of our worldly expertise. It is so amazing that He chose us when we were unlikable. While we were yet sinners, Jesus left glory, came to this earth, He became flesh and dwelled among. He who was sinless became sin so that we might live. Christ did what no man would do He willingly went to Calvary for us.

Paul tells the church of the wonderful blessing of God love bestowed upon us through Jesus Christ. By grace we were raised up and seated in heavenly places with Him. This stresses the divinely formed unity shared between Christ and Christians. What was accomplished in the past is still a reality today and forever.

As believers we should rejoice in the knowledge of Gods divine grace, and understand His immeasurable love for us. God’s love pursues us, makes a way for us, keeps us alive and does not give up on us until we finally accepts all that He wants to give us.

by: Barbara Stevenson

Why Gethsemane?

2010-10-03T03:04:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference
Matthew 26: 36-38

36Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto his disciples, Sit ye here, while I go yonder and pray. 37And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and sore troubled. 38Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: abide ye here, and watch with me. (American Standard Version)

Jesus led His disciples out of Jerusalem across the Kidron Valley and over to the Mount of Olives to a garden called Gethsemane. Gethsemane means "Olive Press", and most likely it was a walled olive grove where Jesus would go to be alone with His Father.

Eight of the disciples were left at the gate and told to pray. Jesus took the other three, Peter, James and John, with Him further into the garden to pray. These three chosen for the more intimate view of Christ's agony, had previously enjoyed a closer proximity than the others at the raising of Jairus' daughter, and upon the mount of transfiguration.

Pastor Collins, asked the question, “Why Gethsemane?” The Mount of Olives was intimately connected with the private, and devotional life of the Savior. There He often sat with His disciples, telling them of wondrous events yet to come, of the destruction of the Holy City; of the sufferings, the persecution, and the final triumph of His followers (Matthew. 24).

Jesus went to the garden to retire each evening for meditation, and prayer, and rest of body, when weary and harassed by the labors and trials of the day (Luke 21:37); The Garden of Gethsemane is considered the holy of hollies. The place where Christ went on the night of his betrayal to utter the wonderful prayer, “O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” (Matt. 26:39). And when the cup of God's wrath had been drunk, and death and the grave conquered, He led His disciples out again over the Mount of Olives as far as Bethany, and after a parting blessing ascended to heaven (Luke 24:50, 51; Acts 1:12).

The one purpose of Christ's coming into the world was to make an atonement, through death, for man's sin; Without Gethsemane there would be no agony of the cross. Christ in the garden, sinless and Holy God incarnate was able to perceive the horror of sin in a way we cannot. "Not as I will, but as thou wilt." This very human prayer gives insight into the sufferings of Christ and should enhance human appreciation of his unselfish deed.

As believers, we should be in awe of what we see in the Garden of Gethsemane, and we should be moved by that awe to surrender or wills, service and worship as we see the Father and Son’s Love in the plan of our redemption.

"Life's Sinking Situations"

2010-07-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference
Matthew 14:30-31 14-25

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"

31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?"

25 During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.

New International Version (NIV)

Matthew, Mark and John saw God in distinct lights, each wrote about the same accounts but from three different prospective. Only Matthew wrote about Peter walking on the water.

Jesus had stayed behind to pray, while the twelve disciples took a boat seven miles on the Sea of Galilee toward Capernaum from Bethsaida. About three miles out they were having trouble rowing against the winds and high waves. Jesus saw their distress and showing His Godhead walked upon the water. He found them out on the sea in the darkness of night. “It is I; be not afraid” (verse 27). Only Christ could have given courage and comfort under such conditions.

A similar manifestation of His power and goodness is required as we are tossed with difficulties and temptations each day. When Christ proclaims himself in the soul all sorrow, fear and sin are at an end.

Peter walked on the water-Christ will gives us power to accomplish the impossible if we receive His word by faith. We must however take care never to put Christ’s power to the proof for the pleasure of vain curiosity.

When Peter heard the wind, he became afraid. It was by faith in the power of Jesus that he was able to walk on the water. When that faith failed, he begain to sink. It was not the violence of the winds or waves that endangered his life but his lack of faith.

“Jesus stretched forth is hand” (verse 31). Every moment we stand in need of Christ we are held up by His power. When we are falling, we can be saved by His mercy. Always remember the power of Christ, which holds us up, instead of the dangers we are exposed.

"Jesus the True Vine"

2010-06-22T00:05:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference: John 15: 1-5

1I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.

2Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

3Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.

4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.

5I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

6If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.(KJV)

Jesus is the true vine, as truth is opposed to pretence and counterfeit; he is really a fruitful plant, a plant of renown. He is not like the wild vine which deceived those who gathered of it (2 Ki. 4:39), but a true vine. Unfruitful trees are said to lie (Hab. 3:17), but Christ is a vine that will not deceive. Christ is that true vine symbolized by Judah’s vine, which enriched him with the blood of the grape (Gen. 49:11), by Joseph’s vine, the branches of which ran over the wall (Gen. 49:22), by Israel’s vine, under which he dwelt safely, (1 Ki. 4:25.2). Believers are branches of this vine, and Christ is the root of the vine.

The Father is the husbandman, the land-worker. He had an eye upon Christ, the root; He upheld him, and made him to flourish out of a dry ground. God has an eye upon all the branches, and prunes them, and watches over them, that nothing hurt them. The sense of duty taught us by this similarity, which is to bring forth fruit, and, in order to this, to abide in Christ. We must honor God, and do good, and exemplify the purity and power of the religion we profess; and this is bearing fruit

Pastor Craig Smith in the Sunday’s sermon, described John 15:1-5 as “A Formula for Fruitful Living.” From a vine we look for grapes (Isa. (Isa. 5:2), and from a Christian we look for Christianity; this is the fruit, a Christian temper and disposition, a Christian life and conversation, Christian devotions and Christian designs. We must honor God, and do good and exemplify the purity and power of the religion we profess; and this is bearing fruit.

Pastor Smith’s message was based on three principles:
1. Jesus is the one and only vine
2. God the Father is the gardener (husbandman)
3. We are nothing but a branch.

Christians are to remember that Jesus is the center of God’s plan and the source of the believer’s power. We are to be faithful and let no trials turn us away from the truth. Continue closely in unity with Christ so our souls may receive help that is required to preserve and save us to eternal life.

"Where Is God?"

2010-06-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference
John 11:32-36

32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, "LORD, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34 "Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, LORD," they replied. 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, "See how he loved him!"

Here was a house where the fear of God was, and on which his blessing rested; yet it was made a house of mourning. Grace will keep sorrow from the heart, but not from the house. When God, by his grace and providence, is coming towards us in ways of mercy and comfort, we should, like Martha, go forth by faith, hope, and prayer, to meet him.

Sunday June 13, 2010 was a sad time for our pastor and church family, a dear friend departed this life. As believers we have read the words of Christ about the great things of the the eternal world. And as we gathered for worship the questions in my heart were "we have studied the things of eternity, do we believe them truth?" Would the crosses and comforts of this present time make such an impression on us if we did not believe?

Pastor Collins, full of emotion asked "Where is God?" When we are overwhelmed with pain we often do not see clearly. As believers we are to cast our burdens upon the Lord, "He will sustain us" -- hold us together and hold us up! It's our faith, life, love, and final salvation that is uppermost to God. Our greatest cares and burdens He promises to take care of.

In all the afflictions of believers Christ concern for them was shown by his kind inquiry after the remains of his deceased friend(verse 34). Being found in fashion as a man, he acts in the way and manner of the sons of men. It was shown by his tears. He was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. Believers are to draw from this example that we may comfort the afflicted.

Believers remember that Christ has taken upon Himself our greatest burden. He took up the cross for our sins. He did this when we did not seek Him! Shall He not hold us up and hold us together now, without question? Peter writes to us: "Cast all your care upon Him, for HE CARES FOR YOU." (I Peter 5:7)

"Just When I Need Him Most"

2010-06-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference:

Luke 18:35-43

35As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. 36When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. 37They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by."

38He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"

39Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"

40Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, 41"What do you want me to do for you?"
"Lord, I want to see," he replied.

42Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you."

43Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God. (NIV)

Pastor Collins’ illustration of Luke 18:35-43 on Sunday June 6, 2010 was that of a man who was not just blind but destitute. He was the symbol, of someone who knew life was about to be altered. The blind man was the image of mankind, which Christ came to heal and save. Christ encourages poor beggars, who men frown upon, and invites them to come to him, and is ready to entertain them, and bid them welcome

Have you ever encountered a special moment of grace, a once in a life-time opportunity you knew you could not pass up? This was such a moment for the blind beggar. Hearing the noise of the crowd, he realized that the number of people on the road crowding into the city was much larger than usual. Crying out to whom ever could hear him, "What is going on?" One of the bystanders said, (v. 37) "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He knew who Jesus was and had heard of his fame for healing, but until now had no means of making contact with the Son of David, a clear reference and title for the Messiah. He was determined to get near the one person who could meet his need.

Christ knows all our wants but he want to hear them from us (v. 41): “What do you want me to do for you?” By taking our case before God, with a specific request of our wants and burdens, teaches us the significance of the mercy we are in search of; The blind beggar poured out his soul before Christ, when he replied, “Lord, I want to see.” When we pray we should be precise.

When things in our life decline, and we’re at the point of despair; We can’t see the sunshine for the rain. The storm has lasted so long, that we have exhausted all resources. We must go to Christ, like the blind man, earnestly pleading that he open our eyes, and show us clearly the excellence of his teachings, and the value of his salvation.

Jesus praises the blind beggar for recognizing who he is with the eyes of faith and grants him physical sight as well. (v.42)"Receive your sight; your faith has healed you." Christian friends do you recognize your need for God's healing grace and do you seek Jesus out, with persistent faith and trust in his goodness and mercy?

Why Did God Make Mothers

2010-05-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2... Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2...Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and YES to chores?

Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world. And my mom eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that mom didn't have her thinking cap on.

Who's the boss at your house?
1. Mom doesn't want to be boss, but she has to because dad's such a goof ball.
2.. Mom... You can tell by room inspection. She sees the stuff under the bed.
3. I guess mom is, but only because she has a lot more to do than dad.

What's the difference between moms and dads?
1. Moms work at work and work at home and dads just go to work at work.
2. Moms know how to talk to teachers without scaring them.
3. Dads are taller and stronger, but moms have all the real power 'cause that's who you got to ask if you want to sleep over at your friends.
4. Moms have magic, they make you feel better without medicine.

What does your mom do in her spare time?
1. Mothers don't do spare time.
2. To hear her tell it, she pays bills all day long.

What would it take to make your mom perfect?
1. On the inside she's already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet. You know, her hair. I'd diet, maybe blue.

If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be?
1. She has this weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I'd get rid of that.
2. I'd make my mom smarter. Then she would know it was my sister who did it not me.
3. I would like for her to get rid of those invisible eyes on the back of her head.

"HAPPY MOTHERS DAY and MY GOD BLESS YOU"

Too Desperate to be Denied

2010-03-12T23:42:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference: Mark 5:25-34

A large crowd followed and pressed around him. ²⁵And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. ²⁶She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. ²⁷When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, ²⁸because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." ²⁹Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.

³⁰At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?"

³¹"You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?' "

³²But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. ³³Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. ³⁴He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."

This scripture is an overlapping narrative about two females whose circumstances are dramatically changed by Jesus. These two are persistent women, one suffered for twelve years with an incurable bleeding disease, and the other Jairus’ daughter is a twelve year-old critically ill girl causing her father to seek out Jesus for a healing. Each woman needed a spiritual change in their lives. They both had been given the expert opinions of physicians declaring that their situations were beyond help.

This scripture is full of anticipation, just as Jesus was on his way to Jairus’ home, to heal his twelve year-old daughter he was interrupted. The importance of Jesus’ ministry, to the ritually unclean woman, is heightened by the fact that he allows it to disrupt him going to Jairus’ house. Laws in the book of Leviticus rendered the bleeding woman unclean (Lev. 12:1-8; 15:19-30), which meant that she lived a life of segregation. She was excommunication from her ethnic heritage, social isolation, and separation from her spiritual birthright. Her physical condition stigmatized every aspect of her life.

The gospel of Mark does not give the name the woman, she is known as the woman that had been afflicted for twelve years. What is so compelling is that she would not be deterred or dissuaded from obtaining the blessing that she sought from Jesus. Through enormous crowds she was pressed to touch the hem of his garment. She held the conviction that if she only touched Jesus’ garment she would be made whole (v. 33). She may have known that others had touched him and been made well (Ch. 3:10: 6:56). At the exact moment that she reaches out in faith, that which she was told impossible becomes possible—she experiences the cessation of her hemorrhage and knows that she is healed.

Pastor Collins’ sermon detailed several people through the book of Mark, whose names was never given. Jesus delivered from a dilemma those that were too desperate to be denied. The sovereignty of God as revealed in the scripture imply that when we make a “by any means necessary” move by executing a radical, courageous, and bold move of faith, we are find miracles in unexpected places. The power of God will not be deterred, so that the kingdom might come on earth as it is in heaven.

A Fixed Race

2010-01-20T12:44:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference:

Hebrews 12:1-3

¹Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

²Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

³Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (NIV)

The 12^th chapter of Hebrews uses first and second person verbs, directed to its readers, influencing them to turn their eyes on Jesus the best model of faith. Hebrews 12:1-3 is and urgent request for believers to emulate Jesus’ faithfulness. Jesus led the way, providing the resources and making it possible for his followers to walk in his footsteps.

Pastor Collins preached that the believer’s life is a race, one with a starting point and a finish line. We are in a battle that will not end until we leave this world. It is absolutely necessary that we preserve the faith, because we are labors for which there is no rest until the work here is finished.

Hebrews twelve motivates the follower, to faithfully run the Christian race. Chapter eleven refer to the great faith heroes who we should emulate, for they were witnessed to by God. Now it is us who are running the race and these faith champions will be attesting to our faith.

The race that is set before us is the course of our individual lives. This path is filled with obstacles, hills, valleys, and difficulties. This race is set by God our Father and Christ our Redeemer. The battlefield is this present evil world.

The course is set before us in the Word of God and by divine providence. This race we must be run, with patience, perseverance, endurance and determination.

Christ waits at the finish line.

Whatever You Do Don’t Fall Apart

2010-01-19T13:18:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference:
1Corinthians 10:12-13

12So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! 13No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.(NIV)

In the referenced scripture the Apostle Paul makes it clear that sins and temptations are common to all of us. However there a way out, and the way out is not the way of surrender, and not the way of retreat, but the way of conquest in the power of the grace of God.

Pastor Collins’ message Sunday, January 10, 2010 explained that temptation has terrible power . . . and effects. That the people of Israel saw God's divine glory, but temptation still seized them. Throughout history, people with great spiritual privilege have fallen to temptation.

God is faithful, He will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. Fighting temptation often means fleeing it: If it's a problem for you, stay away! Apart from grace, we cannot fight sin.

1Corinthians is a letter Paul had written to the church in Corinth, after receiving unfavorable news about their congregation. They were having divisions and much sin. There was gross immorality and many practical problems in living the Christian life. Marriage problems, difficulties concerning meat offered to idols and matters of conscience, abuses in taking the Lord’s Supper, disorderly conduct in the formal assemblies for worship, confusion about the role of women in the church, and false teachings about the afterlife, which produced a tremendous response from Paul to teach the truth about the resurrection.

If we would only listen to God's word which requires submitting our will to that of Jesus Christ, and transcribe His word to our hearts and minds, the tempests in our lives, will not wash away the sand upon which we stand.

When we stand firmly and obediently upon the solid rock of Jesus Christ, the temptations begin to quiet down. When we find ourselves in trouble, resolve to put Jesus first in our lives. For He is all power, knows everything. He is not a God to be figured out or understood; He is to be believed; God is everywhere (omnipresent). Remember that He is our relief, comfort and consolation.

Ridiculous Crazy Worship

2010-01-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference: 2Samuel 12:13-20

13.) Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”

Nathan replied, “The Lord has taken away your sin. You are not going to die.

14.) But because by doing this you have made the enemies of the Lord show utter contempt the son born to you will die.”

15.) After Nathan had gone home, the Lord struck the child that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. (16) David pleaded with God for the child. He fasted and went into his house and spent the nights lying on the ground. (17) The elders of his household stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he refused, and he would not eat any food with them.

18.) On the seventh day the child died. David’s servants were afraid to tell him that the child was dead, for they thought, “While the child was still living, we spoke to David but he would not listen to us. How can we tell him the child is dead? He may do something desperate.”

19.) David noticed that his servants were whispering among themselves and he realized the child was dead. “Is the child dead?” he asked.

“Yes,” they replied, “he is dead.”

20.) Then David got up from the ground. After he had washed, put on lotions and changed his clothes, he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. Then he went to his own house, and at his request they served him food, and he ate.

The twelfth chapter of 2 Samuel records the consequences of one of the blackest hours in David’s live. He had been guilty of both adultery and murder. He had disobeyed four of God’s laws: thou shall not kill, thou shall not commit adultery, thou shall not steal and thou shall not cover thy neighbor’s wife. Though David’s repentance was immediate and sincere, there would be necessary repercussion in his life: (1) The sword would never depart from his house. (2) Evil would come upon him out of his own house, his wives would be shamed publicly (2Sam. 16:22) (3) The child would die (2 Sam 12:15-19). This was an important event because it openly shows the presence of sin, even in the life of a man of God, and how that man responded with deep humility and repentance, even when its consequences plagued him throughout his life (see Ps.51).

Bishop G. L. De Geddingseze, who preached the sermon on the 13^th of December, tells us that if the spirit had not been involved David’s worship would have been ridiculous and crazy. His crimes were a breach of trust against God. David was guilty of acts of treachery that spurned his Creator. He returned a slap in the face to a generous God, a God who had given all, provided all. This is why David says, in Psalm 51:4, "Against Thee, Thee only I have sinned." Christians must believe that God with His grace and mercy will not allow us to stay in a state of sin. The following three steps should be taken to reconcile with God through Jesus Christ.

1) Translate our transgression and transform it into triumph-A damaged relationship with God. Isaiah 59:1-2 shows that sin creates division between God and us because of the breach of trust. David took seven days of fasting and praying preparing for life after tragedy. (See Psalms 51)

2) Your issues don’t cancel your identity-After David’s transgressions were committed, he was still the king. It does not matter whether the perpetrator is wealthy or impoverished. If you are a born again believer you are still a child of the kingdom.

3) Realize the substance of your consequences-God will forgive, cleanse, and restore but there are consequences. Even with God's forgiveness, there are effects that remain and must be borne by the sinner—and tragically, by those sinned against.

Christian friends God is willing to expend amazing amounts of resources to save just you. A full recovery is possible.

Candy Cane

2009-12-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

The Prince of Peace

2009-12-09T11:49:00.001-08:00

^{Scripture: Isaiah 9: 1-6

1} Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan-

² The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.

³ You have enlarged the nation
and increased their joy;
they rejoice before you
as people rejoice at the harvest,
as men rejoice
when dividing the plunder.

⁴ For as in the day of Midian's defeat,
you have shattered
the yoke that burdens them,
the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor.

⁵ Every warrior's boot used in battle
and every garment rolled in blood
will be destined for burning,
will be fuel for the fire.

⁶ For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

All About Me

2009-12-07T01:23:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference: Psalms 51:6-8 and Mark 8:34

Ps 51:6-8

⁶ Surely you desire truth in the inner parts ;
you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.

⁷ Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

⁸ Let me hear joy and gladness;
let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

⁹ Hide your face from my sins
and blot out all my iniquity.

¹⁰ Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Mark 8:34

³⁴Then 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.”

Psalms 51 is one of the greatest passages in the entire Bible concerning confession and forgiveness. It was written after David committed adultery with Bath-sheba and subsequently had her husband Uriah killed in battle. (see ll Sam. 11:2 – 12:14) David’s repentance included: A godly sorrow for his sin (ll Cor. 7:10-11): Verbal confession; A turning away from sin; Forgiveness; Restoration to God’s favor; Rejoicing in salvation; A willingness to testify to other about the grace of God.

Pastor Collins’ sermon outlined three categories of sin which Christians fall into when self is placed first in our lives: 1) Sinful Behavior – Sins of the flesh, such as sex, alcohol and drug addition hostility, and immorality. Some Christian ministries have become callous, cold and stale in their worship of God; living as though they have some license to live any kind of way. 2) Sinful Attitude – Attributes of sinful behavior, selfishness and pride, false teachings and destructiveness. 3) Blasphemy – To fall out of love with God, wickedness, sacrilege and irreverence.

Sin is self-centeredness and pride that leads to oppression against others. One form is being very bad and breaking all of God’s laws, and the other form is being very good and keeping all the laws but becoming self-righteous.

As followers of God, it is essential that we first deny ourselves and repent. Our sinful attitudes and behavior must be removed in favor of humility and willing sacrificial love for one another.

Through Christ we have been set free from sin, made perfect forever, made holy, blameless and pure, enslaved to righteousness through obedient faith and made spiritual. We are no longer controlled by our sinful nature, if the Spirit of God lives in us. We are pleasing to God by our faith and considered “saints”, not sinners. God sent Christ in the image of sinful man to be a sin offering, so that the righteous, holy requirements of the law could be fully met in those whom the Spirit of God dwells.

Today God calls us, as disciples of Jesus Christ to love, take action and live out the life that Christ began some 2000 years ago. Jesus commanded us to proclaim the Good News. Go with the power of the spirit, with a new step and a new vision of fulfilling God's will in this unloving and uncaring world.

A Psalm 111 - I Will Give Thanks To The Lord

2009-11-17T13:43:00.000-08:00

Praise the Lord.I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who have pleasure in them. Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures for ever. He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and merciful. He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant. He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy, they are established for ever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness. He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant for ever. Holy and terrible is his name! The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who practice it. His praise endures for ever!

~~~~~~

Unlimited Thanksgiving

2009-11-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

We open wide thankful hearts when we receive the Lord's undeserved blessings. In those exciting times we find it easy to offer praise and thanksgiving to God. Do we selfishly limit our boundaries? Maybe we need to develop a "constant thanksgiving" plan in all circumstances.

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NKJ)." Unlimited thanksgiving will stretch us and also offers the potential of a greatly expanded witness. To be thankful in everything is certainly not a normal response! The key is to remember we are not instructed to thank God for everything, but in everything. Evil and hardship we face are not the source of thankfulness; and we face them with inner turmoil. In everything we can give thanks for God's faithfulness and love! Maybe we can positively influence others to see God's tender hand in everything. The sky is the limit!

by Pam Ford Davis
9/28/2009 / Devotionals

Parable of the Light

2009-11-09T12:29:00.000-08:00

14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven

Many Judean cities were built on sides of mountains, so that travelers would be able see them from afar. Jesus pointed to such a city, telling His disciples that they were like it. The city built on an important location can be seen by many over a wide area; representing a disciple's far-ranging, widespread exposure to others, and their broad influence.

Jesus' illustration of a shining lamp illuminating the home suggests a disciple's more intimate influence. A Christian's actions cannot be hidden from the eyes of either our families or the world. Therefore he must live a righteous, holy, humble, and pure life, letting his "light so shine before men . . . glorifing the Father in heaven."

Light is of a three-fold nature: natural, artificial, and spiritual. Sun light is natural; A lamp, artificial; The light of the Word and its believers; spiritual. This phrase preeminently applied to Jesus because He is to the mortal world what the sun is to the natural world. The apostles, ministers, and all Christians are lights of the world; because by their witness they show; what God requires, what man's condition is, and the way that leads to the Kingdom of God.

Jesus shows the disciples that they have been illuminated so that others might see their light and benefit from it. When a lamp is lit, the light is not concealed but placed where it may be of use. So it is with God's way of life and those who follow it. God gives His truth to us to benefit others. It should not be obscured but shown in stark contrast to the wicked world; thereby exposing and instructing it. If a light is hidden, as under a basket, no one benefits from it.

A Christian's righteous life, pleasant attitude, and good works, including pure conversation and faithful obedience, should not be hidden but should be seen and known. We can give no light until we have received the grace of God and the enlightenment that comes through the Holy Spirit. Our lives must produce the fruit of the spirit, reflecting the shining example of Jesus Christ.

Humbly, in all communities, in all businesses, at home and abroad, in prosperity and adversity, it should be clear that we adhere to God's way of life. Letting our examples shine requires that we resist the influence of the world. We cannot have a light that shines and at the same time live as the world does with its lust of the flesh. We glorify the Father by bearing the fruit of the Spirit and by doing good works, by correctly praising and honoring Him, and by being led to worship Him properly in obedience. We provide a witness to the world when they see in our lives the excellence of God's way. We learn five principles in this parable:

1. God's truth cannot be concealed.

2. Where light is not manifested in our lives, we make no witness.

3. Those that profess Christianity yet live like worldly people prove that they are not truly converted.

4. Attempting to hide our Christianity betrays God's trust, injures the cause of goodness, and renders our lives useless.

5. Good actions will be seen, leading people to honor God.

Signed, Sealed and Delivered

2009-11-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

Scripture Reference: 1Peter 9:3-5/15-19 (NIV)

3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 5who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

15But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

17Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. 18For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
The influence of Peter on the early church was stronger than that of any of the original Twelve Disciples. He was also the most prominent during Jesus’ lifetime. However Pastor Collins explained that Peter, the writer of 1Peter is a different person. He is not the same man we met with Jesus before the crucifixion, this is a new Peter that has been regenerated by God.

As a disciple Peter was taught by Christ, he set under him as a pupil. Peter here in this book is an apostle, and has been empowered by the Master to represent him. Peter has no shame now saying that he is representing Jesus. This is because with God there is complete forgiveness, our hearts have been made new again. We should never permit past sins, failures, and humiliations to impede us from living for and representing Christ.

There is reference made to those whom God regenerated in (verse 3). We became the heirs of a resurrectioned body because the resurrection of Jesus Christ was the first fruits of our own resurrection (verse 4). The inheritance made possible by Jesus Christ is kept for us. It is not only an inheritance for the past believer, but also for us who are currently alive on earth. We are being guarded by God who is in heaven while, through faith, we are awaiting our liberation from earth.

God wants us to be holy because He is with us and in us. He does not want to be contaminated by the impurities of this world "I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God and they shall be My people" (II Corinthians 6:16). To have a fellowship with God, we must become holy as He is. "'Come out from among them and be separate,' says the Lord. 'Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you'" (II Corinthians 6:17).

The church is the community where God's truth is taken seriously. We should not be superficial, or impetuous. We must work hard, setting our hope in God's grace, not in our own willpower.

"Remember always that our obedience is to a gracious Person, not to a coldly calculating judge or to society: holiness not sanctimoniousness. It is being separated for a special purpose by special instructions and discipline. We have been called to perform a unique purpose. We have been called to glorify God by our lives as a witness to all who observe, and at the same time being prepared for His Kingdom. God wants us to have a passionate love for goodness, so in your mind give Him a unique place.

By: B Stevenson

So Close But Yet So Far

2009-10-26T17:54:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reference John 5: 1-8

1After these things there wasa feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 2Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew Bethesda, having five porticoes. 3In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered,[waiting for the moving of the waters; 4for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted.] 5A man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. 6When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, "Do you wish to get well?" 7The sick man answered Him, "Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me." 8Jesus said to him, "Get up, pick up your pallet and walk."

This passage teaches what misery sin brought into the world. This man endured pain and infirmity for thirty-eight years. He had witnessed others being healed at the waters of Bethesda, but for him there had been no healing. Friendless, helpless, and hopeless, he lay near the wonder-working waters, but derived no benefit from them. Year after year passed away and left him still uncured. No relief or change for the better seemed likely to come, except from the grave.

At certain seasons the waters of this pool were agitated, and it was commonly believed that this was the result of supernatural power. Whoever stepped into the water first after the troubling of the pool would be healed of whatever disease he had. Hundreds of suffers visited the place; but so great was the crowd when the water was troubled that they rushed forward, trampling underfoot men, women and children, weaker than themselves. Many could not get near the pool. There were porches that surround the pool where some spent the night, creeping to the edge of the pool day after day, in vain hope of relief.

Alone and friendless, feeling that he was shut out from God’s mercy; the sufferer had passed long years of misery. At the moment the water was troubled, he had no one to help him into the pool. He had seen the rippling of the water, but had never been able to get farther than the edge of the pool. Others stronger than he would plunge in before him. He could not contend successfully with the selfish scrambling crowd.

The sick man was lying by the pool lifting his head to gaze at the pool, when a tender, compassionate face bent over him and the words “Wilt thou be made whole?” Hope came to his heart. . Jesus does not ask the sufferer to exercise faith in Him. He simply says “Rise, take up they bed and walk.” The man's faith however takes hold of his words and every nerve and muscle trills with life.

Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. There are many who realize their helplessness and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them in to harmony with God; “O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from this body of death? (Rom. 7:24)” Look up! the Savior is there freely offering the purchase of His blood, saying with tenderness and pity, “Do you wish to get well? (Verse 6)”

Believe His word and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. He will impart life to the soul that is “dead in trespass, (Eph.2:1)”. He will set the captive free that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sins.

No matter how far you may think you are from your healing, God is not far away He is right there standing over you, with love and compassion; biding you to arise in health and peace.

By: Lillie Jackson and B. Stevenson

Happy Autumn

2009-10-23T15:32:00.000-07:00

Being a Christian is like being a pumpkin. God lifts you up, takes you in, and washes all the dirt off of you. He opens you up, touches you deep inside and scoops out all the yucky stuff-- including the seeds of doubt, hate, greed, etc. Then He carves you a new smiling face and puts His light inside you to shine for all the world to see. This was passed on to me from another pumpkin. Now, it is your turn to pass it to a pumpkin. I liked this enough to send it to all the pumpkins in my patch.

God Bless You & Happy Fall!

e-mailed by E. Buckhalter