Supporting passages: Ephesians 2:1-9, 3:14-21, 4:7; Romans 3:23-25, 5:1-5; Titus 2:11-14, 3:4-8; 1 Corinthians 15:9-10

Main Scripture passage: Matthew 10:24-39

Justus Witty, Rob Graham, Abbey Tyler, and Phil Notz share about their experiences serving on the mission field.

As servants of Christ we are called to participate in the spreading of the gospel. Paul calls it "fellowship in the gospel" in Philippians 1:5. The root word for "fellowship" here literally means participation or contribution. So we are called to contribute to the work of the gospel. The Philippians fulfilled this command by giving financially to Paul's missionary work. We must do the same. We need to further God's Kingdom not just in our words but in our actions--by giving.

Main Scripture passage: Luke 10:30-37

Main Scripture passages: Luke 10:30-37, Titus 2:11-14; 3:8, 14

God has called us to show compassion on others as He has showed compassion on us.

Main Scripture passage: Luke 10:25-37 & 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Main Scripture passage: Luke 10:25-37

Diane Vaughan and Suzy Schneider share about their involvement with Thrive, a pro-life organization based in the Saint Louis area, and Dr. David Vaughan draws from the passage of the Good Samaritan in his sermon, Three Reasons to Discuss Abortion.

Fulfilling the Great Commission requires that we preach the Word of the Lord. And part of that involves providing God's Word to those who do not have it. The Gideons play a large part in fulfilling this aspect of the Great Commission. They distribute numerous copies of God's Word to those who do not have access to it. As the body of Christ we need to support the Gideons in this vital ministry to reach the lost, as well as other similar ministries. We too can play a part in fulfilling the Great Commission by taking advantage of the opportunity to support them, in addition to our own work of preaching the gospel. To support the Gideons in their work of spreading God's Word, visit their website at http://www.gideons.org/.

Christ gave his apostles the vision for the church two thousand years ago: to make disciples and build them up in the faith. This is the same vision the church has today. And while each local church holds this same vision, not each church has the same means of accomplishing it. The means of accomplishing this goal are different for each church. So the question, "What is the vision for Liberty," really boils down to "What are the means of better accomplishing this vision?" To answer that question, we must examine the ministries we do, and we must realize that there will be certain aspects of accomplishing the vision that will change: certain ministries will need to be changed; others removed; others added. Getting started, the first thing we need is a plan--a long term plan. And we must ensure that this plan is God's plan, not simply ours, and we must be willing to adjust it according to God's sovereign plan. As we plan long term there are a few key areas we must look at with the vision of advancing the kingdom. These areas are foundational as we ensure that Liberty is doing the work the Lord has called us to do. First and foremost, we need to meet the needs of the people--the people inside the body and the people outside the body. There are two ways of doing this: (1), you see a need and then you meet it, and (2) you plan to meet a need you soon anticipate. But to meet these needs, we must have workers! For Liberty, this means more elders, more deacons, and just more workers in general for the various ministries we have. To meet these needs we have various ministries at Liberty--inward ministries and outward ministries. In the context of meeting the needs of the people, we must ask ourselves a few questions. The first is, "How can we make our current ministries even better?" The second is, "Are there other ministries we aren't currently doing that we should be doing?" To conclude, the keys to 2011 are: meeting the needs of the people, making a continued effort on preaching the gospel, a re-examination of our ministries to ensure they are meeting the needs of this church and meeting the needs of the community, and finally, a continued focus on training the people that are already here so they can start serving or better serve.

Our God is a God of mercy. His mercy is free, full, and forever. And the greatest demonstration of God's mercy or compassion consists in the birth of His Son Jesus Christ.

Main Scripture passage: 2 Corinthians 9

Wisdom in the Scriptures requires the new birth, because the natural man cannot see spiritual truths unless the spirit of God is in him. Spiritual truths can only be perceived by those who have the Spirit. And so once the heart and mind have been enlightened by God's Spirit--once the individual has been born again--the new man should be growing in grace, knowledge, and wisdom.

"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you" (Matthew 5:10-12).

The passage here in 2 Corinthians 5 displays two things, among others: (1) the need for reconciliation, and (2) the means of reconciliation.

The objective of the book of James is the maturity of true saving faith. Thus throughout the book James gives several tests by which one's faith can be measured or evaluated. The goal here is to know whether or not one's faith is really genuine and, if so, the areas in which it lacks maturity. For clarity, it should be observed that Paul, in his epistles, answered the question, "How is one saved?" The answer, of course, is that salvation is by grace through faith. James, on the other hand, answers the question, "What is saving faith?" As part of the answer to that question, James puts forth the test of good works in chapter 2 verses 14-26. He says in verse 26, "For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." Concerning this relationship between works and faith four things ought to be observed. First, works are a proof of our faith (v. 18). Second, they are the perfection of our faith (v. 22). Third, works are profitable. And fourth, works are pleasing to God.

In James 2:1-13 the author asks his audience the following question: You profess the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, so in light of your claim to be followers of Christ, how do you treat other people? Do you really follow the teaching of Jesus, who said, "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35, NIV)? By stating this question James is really asking: If someone were to observe how you live in fact, would it be obvious that you were a Christian? To answer this question James says to use practical expressions of love as a gauge for measuring one's faith. Unfortunately, the people to whom James addressed his letter were not passing this test. Thus three things should be observed: (1) how James's readers failed the test of love (what they were doing wrong), (2) why partiality is a failure of love, and (3) James's exhortation to observe the law of love. Firstly, how were James's readers failing the test of love? James tells us in verses 1-4. His audience failed the test of love because they were showing partiality or respect of persons. This means they were showing favoritism or giving preference to someone without proper grounds. They were making judgements that were not based on truth or justice. Specifically, the rich were being honored while the poor were being dishonored. And although partiality can take many different forms, in all of them it is really based on self-interest. Therefore it is a failure of love. This leads us on to our next question: why is partiality a failure of love? First, partiality is a failure of love because it is based on a false judgement or a false evaluation (vv. 5-7). James's audience was treating people based on appearance; they were judging on externals rather than internals. They valued the rich because they looked good, smelled good, possessed money, and things of that nature. In response to this, James says that the poor are the ones who are truly rich--rich spiritually. There are of course other ways of making false judgements besides that of looking at the externals. We can also misjudge by evaluating something without all of the facts or by letting personal attachment influence our judgement. This is why James says in verse 4 that his audience had become "judges with evil thoughts." Their judgements were not based on truth, and therefore they were wrong. And although partiality is wrong because it is a misjudgment of the truth, in the case of James's audience it was also wrong because it was based on a misunderstanding of the law. His listeners most likely attempted to justify their partiality by stating that it was really just an expression of love and honor to those shown partiality. But this understanding is flawed because the royal law required them to love all, not just a few. So partiality is a failure to love because it is based on a misjudgment of the truth and a misunderstanding of the law. James's response to this failure consists in this: to observe the law of liberty, which is the law of love. He says, "So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. For judgement is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgement" (vv. 12-13). We will be judged by how we treat others, and this includes our judgements. If we judge other people and show partiality, God will judge us the same way. He commands us to fulfill the law of love, and He will judge us by the same. Therefore, "so speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty."

The objective of the book of James is the accomplishment of mature, genuine faith. So throughout the book James gives a series of tests, or measuring rods, by which to evaluate one's faith. The first test he gives is the test of trials in chapter 1. The next test is the test of the Word (how we respond to it). In chapter 2, we have yet another test, the test of people--how we treat others. The reason for all these tests lies in the fact that James's audience professed to be believers and were confident of their faith. Therefore James gave them several tests by which they could evaluate their faith to know if it was really real. The first thing to note about faith is that there are three kinds of faith: dead faith (vv. 14-18), demonic faith (v. 19), and divine faith. Firstly, dead faith is faith that is useless or idle. It has no substance; it produces nothing. That is, dead faith is a faith that has no works and produces no fruit. Secondly, there is demonic faith. Demonic faith is an intellectual faith that will not produce fruit. James says in verse 19 that "You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe--and tremble!" What he is saying is that it is not enough to say that there is one God, or even to say that Jesus Christ died for your sins. It's not enough to say it or assert it intellectually--to merely assent to it. Such faith by itself is demonic. In addition to dead faith and demonic faith, there is divine faith. This is the faith that works. Divine faith includes a firm persuasion of the mind and a reliance or trust on the object of faith. It includes knowledge and a persuasion of the truth, but it also includes a third element--trust. This is a reliance on the object of our faith. True saving faith, then, is an intelligent perception of the truth, a reception of the truth, and a reliance on the truth, as it is revealed in the gospel. Putting your faith in Christ involves self-renunciation; you are not trusting in yourself for salvation but are casting your soul on Christ. Faith believes the promises of Christ and rests on these promises. This is also called appropriation: applying Christ to yourself. It is embracing Christ, receiving Christ, and rolling on Christ. So how do you know if you have saving faith? Look at your works. True living faith will produce fruit simply because it is alive. To sum up, the important message James has for us is this: to look at our faith and evaluate it in the mirror of God's Word. If it measures up, then it is true faith. If it does not, then it is not true faith. The remedy for those who lack saving faith is Jesus. Come to Christ, because He is waiting for you. Put your trust in Him, and He will wrap you in His arms of love.

Regarding the word of God, James tells us firstly that we are to hear the word, secondly to receive it, and thirdly to be doers of the word. When James tell us to be hearers of the word, he means just that--we are to listen to the word being preached or spoken. And not just listen to the spoken word; we are to read the word, study it, meditate upon it, know it, and understand it. How do we do this? James tells us two things. (1) We are to be "swift to hear" (v. 19)--that is, to be eager, to be willing, to pay attention, to concentrate. In addition, we are to be slow to speak and slow to anger. Consider and ponder what is spoken, not objecting to the word or responding in anger. (2) We are to listen to the word purely. Verse 21 says, "Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls." The reason James tell us to lay aside our sin is because the presence of sin hardens the heart. And when the heart is hardened, it is like the rocky soil on which the seed that is sown cannot grow. You see, sin causes our hearts to be prejudiced against God's word. And when we are in love with sin we can't be in love with God's word because they are at enmity with each another. Therefore, in order to receive the word, we have to lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness. This requires an attitude of meekness and humility. Secondly, James tells us to receive the word. This means to allow the word to enter--not just the ear, but the mind, the heart, the conscience, the will, and the affections. That is, we are to allow the word of God to shape us. This entails embracing the word and cherishing the word. There is a profound difference between loving the word and just knowing the word. God wants us to fully embrace and cherish His word, allowing it to transform our lives. Thirdly, James tells us to be doers of the word. This is really the test of the things already mentioned. It is the test of whether we have heard and received the word. Because if we've received the word, we will do the word. This is in contrast with the hearer only. The hearer hears, departs, and then forgets. But the doer hears, receives, and then does. Therefore obedience to God is an indicator of genuine faith. That is, the only way to know if we are receiving the word is if we are bearing fruit in our lives. James's challenge for us is to show that we've received the word by how we live.

When we fall into various trials, James tells us how we ought to respond. First, we are to "count it all joy" (v. 2). This does not mean that we are to be happy or giddy at all times, as if nothing were wrong. Rather, James is saying that it is reasonable to be thankful for trials when we know and understand their purpose. If you do not know the purpose of the trial, you will not be thankful for the grief. What then is the purpose? James tells us in verse 4: "But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." That is, the goal of our trials is that the glory of God might be reflected in our nature--that we might be spiritually and morally perfect. Therefore, it is reasonable to be grateful for the trial because we know God is working in us to conform us to the image of His Son, with the capacity to experience divine glory, bliss, and happiness. Secondly, we are to endure through the trial. James tells us to let patience have its perfect work. Do not abort the process. If we flee from the trial, God will continue to bring it back until we pass the test. Just as God was faithful to Israel in the wilderness, he will also be faithful to us. Thirdly, in our response to trials, James tell us to pray. Verse 5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." When we are in the midst of a trial, we may not know what God is specifically trying to teach us. We know the general truth--that God is using the trial to conform us to His image--but we may not know the specific thing God is working to perfect. This is when it is appropriate to ask God for wisdom--so that we might know what He is teaching us. To put it another way, it is okay to ask God "why" when it is done in the right spirit. Fourthly, James tells us to boast or to glory in our trials (vv. 9-10). Trials are a mark of God's profound love for us, and thus we are to glory in the trials. Because God loves us, he proves us, and because God cherishes us, he chastens us. This is something to boast about. Fifthly, we are to continually look to eternity. Verse 12 says, "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." By looking to heaven, we are reminded of our future reward. Thus we will not complain and grumble. Lastly, James tells us not to be deceived. Although God tests us, He does not tempt us. The temptation to sin when we experience trials comes from our own heart. God is not leading us into sin; He is leading us unto maturity. And when we respond to trials in the wrong way, we want to blame God because we don't want to be responsible. But James tells us that God does not tempt us. The temptation comes from our own heart. In conclusion, the appropriate response to trials consists in this: we are to "count it all joy"; go through the trial; pray for wisdom, glory in the trial; look to eternity; and not be deceived.

Main Scripture passage: James 1:1-12

There are three components to the nature of tests: 1) tests are inevitable and will occur repeatedly throughout our lives, 2) tests are mysterious, meaning we may not always know when we are being tested, and 3) tests are universal--every Christian will be tested. The purpose of tests and testing through trials is to refine that thing which is being tested. That is, the purpose of testing is to perfect our faith and character. Lastly, our response to tests ought to be to endure them (not to abort the process). The only way to get past the test is to go through it. And not only are we supposed to endure them, we should not take matters into our own hands. This means we should not try to smooth things over when God is doing a deeper work in our lives. As James says, "Let patience have its perfect work." Then, after we have been approved, we will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him (v. 12).

Christ has called us to have compassion on the lost and our brothers and sisters in the Lord. For the former, this means preaching the whole truth of God, even if it is offensive. However, we need to make sure that it is Christ that is the stumbling block and not us. By preaching the whole truth of God we know we have true compassion, because if we fail to do so then the lost can never truly know the Lord and His mercy. For the latter, this means bearing each other's burdens. We ought to lay down our lives for the saints, being filled with the love of Christ.

"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality" (Romans 12:9-13).

Hospitality is important for several reasons. First, hospitality is important because it is commanded. There are no trivial commands when it comes to God's Word, because God is the author of the command (Matthew 5:17-20). Secondly, hospitality is important because it is part of the church's mission. The church is to be a people eager for good works (Titus 2:11-14; Ephesians 2:10). That is what makes the church different from the world. The church is not only performing good works but is zealous for them. In addition, hospitality as a good work brings glory to God (1 Peter 2:11-12). This is yet another reason for hospitality's importance. Thirdly, hospitality is important because it is a means of evangelism and proclamation. The demonstration of hospitality proclaims that people really matter. Although the image of God has been marred by the fall, we still bear that image. Therefore, humans are valuable and thus ought to be treated with respect, honor, dignity, and even love. Not only does the demonstration of hospitality proclaim that people matter; it also proclaims the love of God. By showing people the love of God in a concrete way, we are proclaiming the gospel. Lastly, hospitality is important because by engaging in it, we become imitators of God (Ephesians 5:1-2). Hospitality incarnates the message of God's redemption--that throughout the history of the world God has sought out the outcasts, the strangers, and invited them into His family (Ephesians 2:11-19). Therefore, we are saved by God's hospitality. And because we are called to be imitators of God, we ought also to demonstrate hospitality to others.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one's youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate" (Psalm 127:3-5).

God loves children. He sees them as highly valuable. The reason for their value is seen throughout Scripture. Firstly, children are valuable because they are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). They are His own special creations, created with an immortal soul. They will live forever somewhere, and thus have eternal value. Secondly, children are valuable because God encourages the reproductive process (1:28). He desires His image to be spread across the face of the earth. Thirdly, children are precious because God is the protector of life. He desires to protect human life and the nursery of life--the family. This is seen by commands not to murder and commands against things that would erode the family, such as adultery and covetousness. Lastly, and most importantly, children are valuable because God sent His only begotten Son to die for them on the cross (John 3:16). God loves children so much that He would sacrifice Himself to save them. Children are as precious as the blood of the Lamb. Without a doubt, God loves children.

Christians are called to be hospitable. Hospitality is simply the love of strangers. We can express our love for strangers by simply introducing ourselves and getting to know them. Although hospitality sometimes comes at a cost, it has many benefits. Specifically, hospitality affords for unity and fellowship among the body and for the exercise of spiritual gifts. In addition, hospitality towards those who don't know Christ is a great opportunity for evangelism.

"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality" (Romans 12:10-13).

Order of events:

TFC Camp sharing

Exhortation on 2 John 8

Guest Speakers:

Nancy Bond--Rafiki Childcare Director in Ghana

Rob Graham--LCC Missionary to Belize

What does baptism mean? This question will be examined in this part of a series on baptism.

Jesus commands His followers to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Several questions arise concerning the rite of baptism:

Who should be baptized?
Why is baptism performed?
What does baptism mean? What does it accomplish?
How should it be performed and by what means?
When should baptism be performed?

The first two questions will be examined in this part of a series on baptism.

As Christians we are called to honor one another and esteem others above ourselves. In doing so we are honoring the head of the body, Jesus Christ.

"Jesus said to them, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM'" (John 8:58).

"'I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing'" (John 15:5).

Modern pluralism as an ideology is similar to ancient polytheism in that it asserts relativity: all gods are equal or all roads lead to God. But Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). This is in direct conflict with relativism. Jesus is not one god among many gods; Jesus is the LORD of Lords.

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'" (vv. 25-26)

John 8:12-20

"Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, 'I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life'" (John 8:12).

John 6:35-I AM the bread of life
John 8:12-I AM the light of the world
John 8:58-I AM
John 10:7-I AM the door of the sheep
John 10:11-I AM the good shepherd
John 11:25-I AM the resurrection and the life
John 14:6-I AM the way, the truth, and the life
John 15:1-I AM the true vine

Our love for God propels us to have a true love for people evidenced in both our action and affection.

Bill Collete--Gideons International

Sarah Benson--SIM Missionary to Sudan

Diane Vaughan-Client Advocate for Thrive Pregnancy Resource Center

Barb Quigley-Director of Center for Bioethics and Culture

Joe Ortwerth-Executive Director for Missouri Family Policy Counsel

There is a contrast in the:
1) Setting of Christmas
2) Character of Christmas
3) Meaning of Christmas

Don't these seem contradictory?

"World" used (or defined) in 3 different ways:
1) Creation: Everything God made
2) Man: Values/Morals/System of ideas
3) The unsaved: Those who are not a part of the Church.

Question: What did Jesus see when He looked at the world?

1) Souls made in the image of God
Matthew 16:24-27
2) Man in his need
Matthew 9:35-38
3) Man in his sin
Matthew 23:13-30 (Seven Woes)
Luke 18:18-30
4) Man in danger
Luke 13:1-5, 34-35

Acts 9
2 Corinthians 5

The fellowship we have with one another is a product of our relationship with God.
Ephesians 5:16
Ephesians 4:4ff
Colossians 1:13f
Colossians 2:1-3
Romans 12:9-16
Ephesians 4:14-16

Ephesians 4:1-16
1 Corinthians 12:12-14
John 15:1-4
1 Peter 2:4-6
John 10:11-15
1 Corinthians 3:4-11

1 Timothy 6:13-16
Hebrews 11:1-3
2 corinthians 4:16-5:7
Romans 4:13-22
Numbers 23:19

God IS faithful AND able.

Justus Witty: Acts

Jenny Espenschied: Parable of the lost sheep (Matthew 18:12)

Hannah Vaughan: Belize Missions Trip

A disciple is a student
Matthew 11:25-30

A disciple is an imitator
John 1:35-43

A disciple abides with the Master
Mark 3:13-14

A disciple is obedient

Attributes of a disciple:
Humility (Mark 10:35-45)
Servant (Mark 10:35-45)
Self-denial (Luke 14:25-27)
(Matthew 5:3-12)
Love (John 13:12-17, 34-35)

Paul was Selfless:
Acts 20:17-23
Philippians 1:12-2:8

Paul was Faithful:
Acts 20:24-27
1 Corinthians 4:1-3

Paul was Industrious (a hard worker)
Acts 20:33-35
Acts 6:1-4
1 Timothy 5:17-18
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Paul was Generous
Acts 20:33-35

Humility, Compassion, Courage

Marks of the True Church:
1) True preaching of the Word of God
2) Administration of the Sacraments/Ordinances (The Lord's Supper & Baptism)
3) Discipline (Education & training)

Philippians 3:7-11

Truly knowing Christ takes time.

John 17:3

The essence of idolatry is the entertaining of thoughts about God that are unworthy of who He really is.

1 Peter 1:13-25

The Gospel - God's Answer

The Gospel is: Grace Alone; Not Grace plus works; Not Grace plus baptism; Not Grace plus anything else. The full Gospel, the Good News is Jesus Christ died for every one of your sins - past present and future.

Galatians 1:6-7.
The purpose of this letter is because Paul had to corral the church. They were being distracted from the Truth.

Galatians 2:14-16
Our restoration with God is by the Grace of God alone, merited by the death and resurrection of Jesus.

Martha Runion shares of her life of struggle and adversity to a life of forgiveness and success in the LORD.

Diane Vaughan shares about her completion of ultrasound training in Springfield. "Ultrasounds for Life"

Proverbs 31:10-31

Genesis 1:26-31

1 Corinthians 11:1-3

Galatians 2:16,21

Romans 3:9,19-20,23-24

James 2:14-20

Ephesians 2:1-10

Titus 2

Matthew 5:16

Characteristics of Christ's example:

1] He delights in God
Psalm 40:6-8
John 4:31-34

2] He has love
John 13:1,34-35

3] He has humility
Philippians 2:5-8

4] He is faithful
John 17:1-4
Luke 16:10-12

The power of service is the Holy Spirit
1 Peter 4:10 "Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms." (NIV)

Also, Rob Volz shared on his suffering and how God has showed him Truth through His Word and through his family.

Three points of counterfeit Compassion:

1) Abortion is compassion/kindness for women.
This focuses on the Woman, while totally ignoring the life of the child.

2) Abortion is an expression of love for unwanted children.
Is it better to be dead than unwanted? Does being unwanted disqualify one from having potential? Of course not.

3) Abortion is the compassionate thing to do for society as a whole.

The Holy Spirit is...
1)
2) a Spirit of Testimony/Witness
Acts 1:4-8
3) the power of prayer
4) a Spirit of knowledge
John 14:15-18,25-26
5) a Spirit of guidance
Romans 8:9-14; 12:1-2
6) a Spirit of ministry and gifting
7) a Spirit of love and unity
Galatians 5:13-23

John 17:20-23

Hebrews 8:7-10 - the reason the old (first) covenant was not found faultless wasn't because the Law was to blame, but because the people did not keep it. And the didn't just not keep it - they were unable to keep it!

2 Corinthians 3:1-11

Romans 8:1, 7-9 - you can come boldly before God, not base upon your works, but having been saved BY GRACE through faith.

John 3:3-6

John 15:1-6 - Jesus Christ is the source of all nourishment in the Christian life.

Mike Deane, nominee for Deacon, shares from his heart his testimony and his love for the church.

1. Ask - Ephesians 5:18. When we ask for His Holy Spirit, the only condition is that we have faith. In this case, His only answer is going to be "Yes!"
2. Adore
3. Agree
4. Abide

No Audio Recording this week.

Galatians 5:22,23

James 5:7-11

1 Praise the LORD!

Sing to the LORD a new song,
And His praise in the assembly of saints.

2 Let Israel rejoice in their Maker;
Let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.
3 Let them praise His name with the dance;
Let them sing praises to Him with the timbrel and harp.
4 For the LORD takes pleasure in His people;
He will beautify the humble with salvation.

5 Let the saints be joyful in glory;
Let them sing aloud on their beds.
6 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth,
And a two-edged sword in their hand,
7 To execute vengeance on the nations,
And punishments on the peoples;
8 To bind their kings with chains,
And their nobles with fetters of iron;
9 To execute on them the written judgment—
This honor have all His saints.

Praise the LORD!

Already spoke on Faith:
• God is our Creator
• God is our Provider
• We are Debtors

Today, Hope & Love:

Meaning of Hope:
• Sometimes it means Faith
• Usually, it is a confident expectation
• There is a distinction between Faith and Hope
- If you have faith, then you WILL have hope
- Faith looks at the past and present
- Hope looks toward the future
Romans 8:18-25

Focus of Hope:
• Christ's Return
Titus 2:11-13
• Future Resurrection
1 Thessalonians 4:13-16
• Heaven or Eternity
1 Peter 1:3-5; Colossians 1:3-5; 1 John 2:28-3:3

Meaning of Love:
• Not mere emotion of passion
Deuteronomy 6:4-6
• Reverence and Obedience

Three Questions:
• Faith: on what are you STANDING?
• Hope: on what are you LOOKING?
• Love: on what are you CLINGING?

Abram's example is one for us to follow--a tenth of what we receive. And this occurred before the Law was given!

The Foundation of our Faith
I. God is the Creator (Gen. 1:1)
A. He is the owner (Malachi 3:8-10)
B. He is the Lord (Ps. 2:1-3)
II. God is the Provider
A. God provided all Adam needed (Gen. 2)
B. God now provides all we need (Matt. 6:25-34)
III. Man is a Debtor
A. As a steward we must all according to God's will (Gen 2:15)

Conclusion:
What are the Fruits of our Faith?
One thing we will see is PEACE instead of ANXIETY!
Matthew 6:19: So where is your heart?!

One aspect of loving God is "with all your mind."

• General Definition
• Three-fold Meaning
• Peace with God: Reconciliation
• Peace with Self: Tranquility
• Peace with Men: Concord/Harmony
Between Christian & Pagan
Between Jew & Gentile
Between Husband & Wife
Between Fellow Christians
• Being a Peacemaker
• Does not retaliate (evil for evil)
• Does not judge or offend
• Avoids contentious words
• Prays for peace
• Puts away anger

Meaning of Joy (Greek: Xara): Joy is delight at something esteemed good in possession or in prospect.
Xara denotes both the state and the object of joy

Objects of Joy:

• The Person of God

• The People of God

• The Power (Gospel) of God

Observations on Joy:

• Joy linked to thankfulness

• Joy opposed to selfishness

• Joy consistent with trials

Works of the Flesh can be grouped in this way:
• Vices against Purity
• Vices against Spirituality
• Vices against Community
> VICES AGAINST SOBRIETY

-- Vices against Sobriety
1) Methai: drunkenness
2) Komoi: revelries; carousing; rioting

-- And the like
1) Ephesians 5:3-4
2) Colossians 3:8-9
3) 1 Corinthians 5:11

-- Shall not inherit
1) Tell you before
2) Those who do/practice

Conclusion: Change the tree and you change the fruit

Works of the Flesh can be grouped in this way:
• Vices against Purity
• Vices against Spirituality
> VICES AGAINST COMMUNITY
• Vices against Sobriety

-- Vices against Community
1) Hatred
- Exthrai: hatreds; animosities; enmity
2) Contentions
- Eris: contentions; strife; disputes
3) Jealousy
- Zelos: jealousy; envy; rivalry
4) Wrath
- Thumoi: wrath; outbursts of anger
5) Selfish Ambition
6) Dissensions
7) Heresies

Works of the Flesh
I Sexual Sins: fornication, uncleanness, lewdness
II Spiritual Sins: idolatry, sorcery, enmity
A Eidololatreia: idolatry; idol worship
1 Two kinds: Spiritual; Formal
a Spiritual Idolatry
i Its meaning
ii Three rivals to God
- earthly things
- people
- yourself
b Formal Idolatry
i Its meaning
ii True worship; Spirit & Truth
B Pharmakeia
1 Medical Use
2 Moral Use
3 Religious Use
C Exthrai
1 Enity or Hostility
2 Link to idolatry
D Conclusion
1 Modern man and idolatry
2 Christian man and idolatry
3 Victory over idolatry

Works of the Flesh
• Porneia: fornication; sexual immorality
• Akatharsia: uncleanness; impurity
• Aselgeia: lewdness; lasciviousness

Meaning of Spirit & Flesh
• Old Man & New Man

• Outward Man & Inward Man

• Natural, Spiritual, & Carnal

• Spirit & Flesh

The Spirit
• The Holy Spirit Himself
• The Union of Holy Spirit and Human Soul

The Flesh
• Not the "old man" of "old nature"

Meaning of Liberty
• Liberty from Curse
• Liberty from Sin
• Liberty from Satan
• Liberty from Law (Galatians 5:1)

Goal of Liberty
• Negatively: "Use not as an opportunity to indulge the flesh"
• Positively: "In love, server one another"

Loving Service
• Motive: love
• Fruit: service

David Vaughan speaks from Galatians 5:1-15, highlighting verse 9.

Galatians 5:9: A little leaven leavens the whole lump.

• Doctrine is a sacred trust of the Church. (1 Tim 3:15, 1 Tim 6:20, 1 Tim 1:1-3, 2 Tim 2:2, 2 Tim 1:13-14)

• Doctrine is a mark of devotion to Jesus. (John 8:31-36, John 14:15, 21-25, 2 Cor 11:3-4)

• Doctrine determines worship – false doctrine leads to idolatry. (Romans 1:18-23)

• Doctrine determines practice – idolatry leads to immorality. (Romans 1:18, 2 Tim 2:15-17)

The nature of God is important. If you have a different Jesus, then you are worshipping a different God.

Remembering Jesus

- Remember His Incarnation
- + Born of the Virgin (Supernatural)
- + True Humanity (Not Imaginary)
- + True Deity (Equality with God)

- Remember His Sufferings
- + Sufferings of Saviour
- + Sufferings of Satan
- + Sufferings of Sin

- Remember His Atonement
- + Atonement was Necessary
- + Atonement was Vicarious
- + Atonement was Gracious

1) How do you view the Word of God?
2) How do you view the Body of Christ?
3) How do you view our unity with Christ?
4) How do you view the world around you?
5) How do you view God?

A correct view of each of these is a total reflection of being a "man after God's own heart."

So, how can we help ensure that we are becoming more and more a "man after God's own heart?"

1) Through prayer and seeking the Lord's counsel
2) Study the Word
3) Diligence

Old Testament background:
Genesis 15:1-6; 16:1-6; 17:15-22; 21:1-12

Application:
1) Those born of the flesh persecute those born of the Spirit (Galatians 4:29)
2) Cast out the bond-woman (Galatians 4:30)
3) Stand fast in freedom (Galatians 5:1)

•Equality of the Sexes
- The Divine Image
- Mutual Honor
- Church Admission
- Gifted Ministry

• Role Distinctions
- Analogy of the Trinity
- The Created Order
- Eve as Helper
- The Fall

• The Fall
- Satan Comes to Eve First
- God Comes to Adam First

• The Curse
- Eve Sins yet Adam Responsible
- Roles Distorted Not Changed

• Redemption (of Women)
- In Home: Wives Submit to Husbands
- In Church: Women Submit to male Elders

• Redemption (of Men)
- Husbands govern with Love
- Fathers rule with Kindness
- Master rule with Justice
- Elders rule by Example

The Galatian Conversion
• Jesus Christ Portrayed
• Response: Faith
• Result: Spirit (Regeneration)

Abraham's Conversion
• Gospel Preached
• Response: Faith
• Result: Blessing (Justification; Spirit)

Comparison
Galatians Abraham
-------- -------
Jesus Gospel
Faith Faith
Spirit Spirit

Contrast
Law Promise
-------- -------
Works Faith
Curse Blessing

Redemption
Basic Meaning
Need for
Result

{Review:}
Three Schemes of Salvation
1. By Law Alone
2. By Grace Alone
3. By Law and Grace

Three Schemes of Justification
1. (If) By Law, (then) By Works, (and) By Man
2. (If) By Grace, (then) By Faith (and) By Christ
3. (If) By Law & Grace, (then) By Works & Faith (and) By Man & Christ

Meaning of Justification
[Definition: Justification is that judicial act of God by which, on account of Christ, to whom the sinner is united by faith, He declares that sinner to be no longer exposed to the penalty of the law, but restored to favor.]
• Declaration
• Pardon (Romans 4:2-6)

Means of Justification
• Grace (not Law)
• Faith (not Works)
• Christ (not Self)

Objections & Answers:
• Contra Holy Living
• Contra James

Confirmed by Conference (2:1-10)
• Time and Place (2:1)
• Goal of Visit (2:2)
• Conflict During Visit (2:3-5)
• Outcome of Visit (2:6-10)
Confirmed by Confrontation (2:11-21)
• Time and Place (2:11)
• Situation (2:1-13)
• Paul's Response (2:14-21)

Outline of Gospel
• Justification is NOT by Works of Law
• Justification IS by Faith in Christ
• All Men in Need of Justification
• Law and Gospel Makes a Transgressor
• Law and Grace is Misuse of Law
• Law and Grace is Rejection of Christ

Divine Origin (1:11-14)
• Not According to Man
• But by Revelation
Divine Transmission (1:15-17)
• God's Gracious Call
• Revelation of the Son
• Commission to Preach
Practical Use
• Personal Testimony
• Personal Relationship
• Personal Proclamation

Next Week:
Human Confirmation (1:18-2:21)

On the Priesthood of Jesus:
Numbers 16:1-5
Leviticus 10:1-3
Hebrews 5:1-3

Two key words: Sacrifice and Intercession (Prayer)

Hebrews 2:17-18; 4:14-5:5; 7:23-28
1 Peter 2:9-10
Revelation 1:4-6; 5:5,8-10
1 John 3:16

Applying this to you:

Colossians 1:24
Hebrews 2:17; 4:15-16

The throne on which Jesus Christ sits is one of Grace and Mercy!

Ezekiel 22:23-31

Hebrews 2:14, 15

Exodus 34:14

Revelation 5:6

1 Timothy 3:16

Romans 3:21-25

Hebrews 1:1-4

John 3:16

Thank You.

Agape (αγάπη) love is just. But it is also merciful. You may be correct in saying "I deserve to be ____ in this situation." However, you would be right to say, "But I will have mercy, and let it go."

The choice to walk in agape love is a difficult choice. Because agape love is death to ourself.

Ephesians 5:22 and following.

Download the powerpoint at http://www.libertystl.com/downloads/sermons/20070922_agape_love_in_the_church.ppt

Love *is* the greatest virtue. But it still is only a virtue. For, in order to love, you need Jesus.

*Note* we will post the file for this week when it becomes available to us. Thank you.

1. Love does not meditate on evil.
i.e. Philippians 4:8 "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things"

2. Love does not wish evil.
i.e. "You'll see" "I told you so" "He'll learn his lesson"
Proverbs 17:5; 24:17; Job 31:24-30; Romans 12:17-21

3. Love does not attribute evil. Love gives the benefit of the doubt.
Matthew 7:1 "Judge not, that you be not judged"
John 7:24 "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment."
2 Samuel 6:12-22

4. Love does not keep a record of evil.
Romans 4:3-8

verse 23 -- And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another.

These two commands are given to us as one, because they are inseparable.

1) Love validates faith

2) Sacrifice validates love

3) Service validates sacrifice

Rick Fister, Steve Inman, and Jake Olejniczak are installed as Deacons.

Brian Short, and Rob Witty also step down from their time spent serving the Church as Deacons.

1) Resurrection power is available
2) Resurrection power is essential
3) Resurrection power is obtainable

David Vaughan speaks from 1 Corinthians 13

Love does not behave unseemly (verse 5).

Love does not demand its own way (verse 5).

Love does not envy.
Genesis 30:1-24
Genesis 37:2-35
James 3:13-16
Numbers 11:16-17, 25-30

Love does not parade itself and is not puffed up.
Matthew 6:5; 23:1-7
Luke 18:9-14

Verse 13: Three things will last forever —- faith, hope, and love -— and the greatest of these is love.

Love is the greatest virtue
1 Corinthians 13:13
Love is the greatest commandment
Matthew 22:34-40; Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5
Love is the greatest apologetic
John 17:20-23

Pastor David Vaughan also speaks from Romans 12:9-21

Dr. David Vaughan speaks plainly on why abortion is against God's laws.

(18) And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. (19) Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (20) teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Amen.

(15) Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, “Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the kingdom of God!”
(16) Then He said to him, “A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, (17) and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, ‘Come, for all things are now ready.’ (18) But they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it. I ask you to have me excused.’ (19) And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to test them. I ask you to have me excused.’ (20) Still another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ (21) So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor and the maimed and the lame and the blind.’ (22) And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.’ (23) Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. (24) For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.’”

(1) What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? (2) Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? (3) Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? (4) Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
(5) For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, (6) knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin. (7) For he who has died has been freed from sin.