Advent Season is just about upon us

Now is the time to start preparing for this year advent season. We will be posting all the scripture reading, stories and crafts. So get out your advent wreath, dust it off and prepare for the Joy of this Advent season with your family.

Remember that Advent starts the day after Thanksgiving – Christmas


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Community

The Church should be a community where messed-up people are welcome, outcasts are loved, underdogs fine a champion, the hopeless find hope, and the friendless find a friend.


Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV): “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”



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Christian Discipleship, what should we be teaching?

Christian discipleship is an important aspect of helping believers grow in their faith. When teaching focus on the following key areas:

  1. Understanding the Gospel: Teach the foundational message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Verses like John 3:16, Romans 3:23-24, and Ephesians 2:8-9 are essential.
  2. Prayer and Relationship with God: Emphasize the importance of prayer and cultivating a personal relationship with God. Verses like Philippians 4:6-7 and Matthew 6:5-15 can be helpful.
  3. Bible Study and Meditation: Teach how to study and meditate on the Bible for spiritual growth. Encourage the use of verses like Psalm 119:105 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
  4. Christian Character: Explore passages that discuss the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) to guide character development.
  5. Discipleship and Evangelism: Encourage disciples to make more disciples and share the Gospel. Verses like Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8 provide a foundation for this.
  6. Service and Love for Others: Teach the importance of serving others and loving one’s neighbor, based on verses like Matthew 25:35-40 and 1 John 4:7-8.
  7. Spiritual Gifts: Help disciples discover and use their spiritual gifts for the benefit of the church and the world. 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 and Romans 12:6-8 are relevant here.
  8. Endurance and Perseverance: Discuss passages that encourage believers to endure trials and remain steadfast in their faith, such as James 1:2-4 and Hebrews 12:1-3.
  9. Holiness and Sanctification: Explore the concept of holiness and being set apart for God’s purposes, with verses like 1 Peter 1:15-16 and Romans 12:1-2.
  10. Hope and Future Glory: Share passages that offer hope and assurance of the believer’s future in Christ, such as Romans 8:18 and Revelation 21:3-4.

Remember to guide disciples in applying these teachings in their daily lives and provide opportunities for discussion and questions to deepen their understanding and faith.



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How do we as Christians’ teach our children about God’s plan for each and everyone of us with His love for us and that includes LGBTQ+ people.

As Christians, teaching our children about God’s plan for us and His love in a world that includes LGBTQ+ individuals requires sensitivity, understanding, and a commitment to biblical principles. Here are some suggestions for approaching this topic with your children:

  1. Establish a foundation of God’s love:

Emphasize that God loves all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Teach your children about the unconditional love God has for everyone and how we are called to love others as He loves us.

The foundation of God’s love is a central theme in Christianity. The Bible is filled with verses that speak about God’s love and its significance in our lives. Here are some Scripture references that highlight God’s love:

1. John 3:16 (NIV):: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

   – This verse emphasizes the immense love of God, who sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for the salvation of humanity.

2. Romans 5:8 (NIV):: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

   – This verse reveals that God’s love is not dependent on our goodness or worthiness. Even in our sinful state, God demonstrated His love by sending Jesus to die for us.

3. 1 John 4:9-10 (NIV):: “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

   – These verses highlight the sacrificial nature of God’s love. God took the initiative to send Jesus as a sacrifice for our sins, enabling us to have a relationship with Him.

4. Ephesians 2:4-5 (NIV):: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.”

   – Here, we see that God’s love is accompanied by His mercy and grace. He offers salvation to us, not because of our own merits, but because of His great love.

5. 1 John 4:16 (NIV):: “So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and anyone who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in them.”

   – This verse emphasizes that God is love itself. When we abide in love, we are dwelling in God’s presence and experiencing His love.

These verses provide a foundation for understanding God’s love and serve as a starting point for exploring the depth and breadth of His love throughout the Bible.

  • Age-appropriate discussions:

Tailor your discussions to the age and maturity level of your children. Younger children may need simpler explanations, focusing on concepts like acceptance and inclusion, while older children can engage in deeper discussions about human sexuality and biblical teachings.

Certainly! Incorporating scripture references can provide a strong foundation for discussing God’s love with different age groups. Here are some age-appropriate scripture references to complement the discussions:

Preschool (Ages 3-5):

1. “God is love.” – 1 John 4:8 (NIV): (Keep it simple and repeat this verse to emphasize God’s love.)

2. “We love because he first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19 (NIV): (Highlighting that God’s love initiates our ability to love others.)

Elementary School (Ages 6-11):

1. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NIV): (Discuss God’s sacrificial love by explaining how Jesus came to save us.)

2. “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” – 1 John 3:1 (NIV): (Emphasize how God’s love makes us part of His family.)

Teenagers (Ages 12-18):

1. “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (NIV): (Discuss God’s unconditional love and grace through Jesus’ sacrifice.)

2. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” – Romans 8:35 (NIV): (Highlight God’s enduring love and reassurance during difficult times.)

Remember, it’s important to explain these verses in a way that is relatable and understandable to each age group.

  • Teach biblical principles:

Share the biblical teachings on relationships, marriage, and sexuality with your children. Explain that the Bible presents a view of marriage as a sacred union between a man and a woman. However, also emphasize that we should not judge or mistreat others based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Certainly! Here are some biblical principles with corresponding scripture references:

1. Love and Compassion:

   – Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV): – “Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all our soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

2. Integrity and Honesty:

   – Proverbs 11:3 (NIV): – “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”

   – Psalm 25:21 – “May integrity and uprightness protect me because my hope, Lord, is in you.”

3. Forgiveness and Reconciliation:

   – Ephesians 4:32 (NIV): – “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

   – Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV): – “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”

4. Humility and Servanthood:

   – Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV): – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

   – Matthew 20:26-28 (NIV): – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

5. Faith and Trust in God:

   – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

   – Hebrews 11:1 (NIV): – “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

These scripture references highlight some of the key biblical principles, but there are many more throughout the Bible that provide guidance and wisdom for living a godly life.

  • Promote empathy and respect:

Encourage your children to treat all individuals with kindness, empathy, and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Teach them to stand against discrimination, bullying, or mistreatment of any kind.

One scripture reference that promotes empathy and respect is found in the Bible, in the book of Matthew 7:12 (NIV)::

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”

This verse is commonly known as the Golden Rule and encourages treating others with empathy, kindness, and respect. It teaches us to consider how we would like to be treated and to extend the same treatment to others. By following this principle, we can foster a culture of empathy and respect, understanding the value and worth of every individual.

  • Encourage dialogue and questions:

Create an open and safe space for your children to ask questions and express their thoughts and feelings. This will help them process the information and develop their own understanding while fostering a healthy relationship with you as their parent.

As a parent, creating an open and safe space for your children to ask questions and express their thoughts and feelings is essential for their growth and development. Here’s a scripture reference that encourages dialogue and open communication within the family:

Proverbs 2:1-5 (NIV):

“My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding— indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.”

This verse highlights the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding, which can be applied to fostering a safe and open environment for your children. Encouraging them to seek knowledge, ask questions, and engage in dialogue helps them develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of themselves and their faith.

  • Address cultural influences:

Recognize that your children may encounter differing views on sexuality and gender in society. Take the opportunity to discuss these perspectives within the context of your Christian beliefs, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth in God’s Word.

Recognizing that your children may encounter differing views on sexuality and gender in society is an important aspect of parenting. Here are a few scripture references that can help guide your conversations and discussions on this topic:

1. Romans 12:2 (NIV):

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

This verse reminds us that as Christians, we should not simply conform to the patterns and beliefs of the world around us. Instead, we are called to renew our minds and seek God’s will in all areas of our lives, including our understanding of sexuality and gender.

2. Genesis 1:27 (NIV):

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

This verse emphasizes the fundamental truth that God created humanity as male and female, each bearing His image. It provides a foundation for discussing God’s design and purpose in gender and sexuality.

3. Ephesians 5:31-32 (NIV):

“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.”

These verses highlight the sacredness of marriage as the union between a man and a woman, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church. It provides an opportunity to discuss God’s plan for marriage and the significance of gender complementarity.

It’s important to approach these discussions with love, respect, and empathy, recognizing that individuals may have differing perspectives. Encouraging your children to seek God’s guidance, study His Word, and engage in open dialogue will help them navigate the cultural influences they encounter while staying grounded in their faith.

  • Community Seek guidance from your faith:

If you have concerns or need further guidance on addressing this topic, consult with your church leaders, pastors, or Christian counselors. They can provide additional resources, support, and insights from a biblical perspective.

Remember that teaching about God’s love and His plan for us should always be rooted in compassion, understanding, and respect for all individuals. By demonstrating love and embracing the teachings of Christ, we can guide our children to navigate the complexities of the world with grace and understanding.

1. Identify your faith community: Determine which faith community aligns with your beliefs and values. This could be a local place of worship, a religious organization, or an online community centered around your faith.

2. Connect with religious leaders: Reach out to religious leaders within your faith community, such as priests, pastors, imams, rabbis, or spiritual mentors. They are often well-versed in the teachings and principles of the faith and can provide guidance based on their knowledge and experience.

3. Attend religious services or gatherings: Participate in religious services, ceremonies, or gatherings within your faith community. These events often provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who may offer insights or support.

4. Seek counsel from fellow community members: Engage in discussions with other members of your faith community who have experience or knowledge in the area of concern. They may be able to provide advice, share personal experiences, or direct you to relevant resources.

5. Consult sacred texts and teachings: Explore the sacred texts, scriptures, or teachings of your faith. These sources often contain guidance and wisdom on a wide range of topics. Reflect on relevant passages and consider how they apply to your situation.

6. Utilize online resources: Many faith communities maintain websites, forums, or online platforms where you can find resources, ask questions, or seek guidance. These digital spaces can connect you with a broader community and offer access to religious teachings and discussions.

Remember that seeking guidance from a faith community is a personal decision, and the availability and nature of guidance may vary depending on the specific faith tradition. It’s important to approach your faith community with an open mind, respect differing perspectives, and consider the guidance provided in relation to your own values and beliefs.


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Church People


I just watched this movie called “Church People” it depicts what is happening in today’s Churches. We are trying to get people into the church with a bunch of hype and trying to get bigger auditions in their churches. I’ll let the story speaks for itself, watch the preview, and then go and watch the full movie.

Church People | Official Trailer

“Church People” on Prime Videos.

Our commission to to speed the Gospel, but at what cost?

Matthew 28:19-20(EVS)

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Is the Gospel message our main focus? Are we making disciples, baptizing them, and teaching them? or is it the numbers at any cost? or through any means possible?

After watching this movie you decide.


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2 responses to “Church People”

  1. Jimmy Sanders Avatar
    Jimmy Sanders

    The mega church has become entertainment not about worshipping God. Preachers have become motivational speakers and the singer’s are dove award winning singers. Sad to say that hungering and thrusting for righteousness is missing.

  2. We should never forget that the sharing the Gospel Message is what we have all been commissioned to do.

Come to the one who can HEAL

Here we see how Jesus healed a man, watch the video clip from the series called The Chosen.

Jesus Heals At The Pool (The Chosen Scene)

That so many people were at the pool waiting for the stirring of the waters suggests there were occasions when people had been healed at Bethesda. There were other healing shrines in the ancient world (e.g. the shrine of Asclepios in Corinth) and evidence exists that people did sometimes receive healing at these sites. From a Christian perspective, such healings would be explained in terms of the ‘lying wonders’ of Satan (2 Thess. 2:9(KJV)). In Matthew 24:24(KJV) / Mark 13:22(KJV), Jesus speaks of false Christs and false prophets who will perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if it were possible, even the elect.

The invalid addressed Jesus as ‘Sir’ (kyrie; lit. ‘lord’, but here used simply as respectful address) and explained his dilemma: he could never manage to be the first to get into the water after it was stirred. Perhaps he hoped Jesus would help him into the water. In any case, the man appears to be ignorant of the miracles Jesus had performed in Jerusalem (John 2:23(KJV); John 3:1–2(KJV)) and showed no sign of faith that Jesus could heal him.

John 5:8–9a(KJV) Ignoring the man’s lack of faith, Jesus said to him, ‘Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.’ The very thing the man was unable to do, Jesus commanded him to do. With the command went forth the healing power: At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. Jesus’ word of command to the invalid was like the creative word of God; the word was uttered and the deed was done. The man must have felt changes taking place in his body, and, feeling whole again, ‘he picked up his mat and walked’—evidence of complete healing. This is one of those healing miracles that Jesus performed without any sign of faith on the part of the beneficiary (cf. Mark 2:1–5(KJV); Luke 22:49–51(KJV)), a reminder to modern readers that healing does not always require faith on the part of the recipient.

Colin G. Kruse, John: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 4, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2003), 148–149.


Final Thought

We sometimes wonder why, when we cry out for help, it seems that He is not listening, (James 5:16(KJV)). The problem is, Jesus may be asking us if we want to be healed. Just as Jesus did for this man He is waiting for our answer, what is that answer he is waiting to hear?”YES

Listen for Him………


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One response to “Come to the one who can HEAL”

  1. Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders Avatar
    Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders

    Jesus is still the healer, what a powerful scene that was remembered as a time Jesus healed on the Sabbath. How that someone bound for many years can be set free?




Battle Belongs

Phil Wickham – Battle Belongs (Official Music Video)

?️LYRICS

When all I see is the battle, You see my victory
When all I see is the mountain, You see a mountain moved
And as I walk through the shadow, Your love surrounds me
There’s nothing to fear now for I am safe with You
So when I fight, I’ll fight on my knees
With my hands lifted high
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
And every fear I lay at Your feet
I’ll sing through the night
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
And if You are for me, who can be against me? Yeah
For Jesus, there’s nothing impossible for You
When all I see are the ashes, You see the beauty
Thank You God
When all I see is a cross, God, You see the empty tomb
So when I fight, I’ll fight on my knees
With my hands lifted high
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
And every fear I lay at Your feet
I’ll sing through the night
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
Almighty fortress, You go before us
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
You shine in the shadow, You win every battle
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
An almighty fortress, You go before us
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
You shine in the shadow, You win every battle
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
An almighty fortress, You go before us
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
You shine in the shadows, You win every battle
Nothing can stand against the power of our God
So when I fight, I’ll fight on my knees
With my hands lifted high
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
And every fear I lay at Your feet
I’ll sing through the night
Oh God, the battle belongs to You
Oh God, the battle belongs to You


Ephesians 6:13-18(KJV)

While his instructions for internal relationships centered on respect and unity, his concern in these verses is based on a recognition of the hostility for which Christians must prepare. Thus he calls on them to be strong and equipped to do battle against those opposing the gospel. He uses military imagery to help convey the nature of the conflict. He then concludes with a personal appeal to the Ephesians to be ready for the opposition that they will face and to support him in the battle he is enduring.

Ephesians 6:18(KJV) In this section on prayer, Paul first exhorts the Ephesians to always be in prayer. He says that they should be praying at all times. This prayer is to be done according to the Spirit. As they are living a life of prayer, they are to also be alert. Paul previously discussed that the schemes of the devil were multifaceted (Ephesians 6:11–12(KJV)), so it is pertinent for believers to be aware and always ready for the spiritual opposition they are sure to face.

Douglas Mangum, ed., Lexham Context Commentary: New Testament, Lexham Context Commentary (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2020), Eph 6:13–18(KJV).


FINAL THOUGHTS

Remember that God is on your side, with you, in you, and through you.

  • WITHSTAND EVIL
  • HAVE FAITH
  • TRUTH IN GOD
  • PRAY

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Christian bookstore

I’m Listening

This is a song from Chris McCarney listen to the words of this song.


?️Lyrics

When you speak, confusion fades

Just a word and suddenly I’m not afraid

Cause you speak and freedom reigns

There is hope in every single word You say

I don’t wanna miss one word You speak

Cause everything You say is life to me

I don’t wanna miss one word You speak

Quiet my heart,

I’m listening When sorrows roll and troubles rage

You whisper peace when I don’t have the words to say

I won’t lose hope when storms won’t break

You keep your word and your promises will keep me safe

Your ways are higher

You know just what I need

I trust you, Jesus

You see what I cannot see


Colossians 3:1–4 (KJV)

1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), Col 3.


Our desire

Colossians 3:2a(KJV)—Set your affection on things above. This deals with the mindset of the believer, including the will, affections, and conscience. Paul knew many whose hearts were set toward things that could never satisfy. They sought to please the lusts of the flesh. Their focus was upon the here and now, with little or no thought for eternity. Much of this left them empty and vain. Worldly desires led to a life void of peace and contentment. Paul also knew the believer did not have to live in such poverty. There was much to be gained in Christ. He is to be the desire and passion of the believer. The world offers nothing of lasting value, with much that it does resulting in heartache and pain. With Jesus, and those things which are above and eternal, as our desire, we can enjoy the fullness of God and His abundance rather than settling for the meager supply offered by the world!

Chris Benfield, “Our Eternal Hope in a Temporal World # 9 (Colossians 3:1–4),” in Pulpit Pages: New Testament Sermons (Mount Airy, NC: Chris Benfield, 2015), 1099–1100.


Final thought

 A reminder that God is for us, God is with us, and God is bigger than anything we face, apart from God I have no good thing.


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2 responses to “I’m Listening”

  1. We all need a reminder that God is in control and all we have to do is lean on Him.

  2. Jimmy Sanders Avatar
    Jimmy Sanders

    God is forever faithful. God speaks through his word to Me.

JOY

What do the scriptures tell us about Joy?

Wayne Thorn

Rev. Cecil W Thorn

In the New Testament letters, joy is a desired attribute of Christians. Paul expressed frequently the joy he had regarding the salvation of those he was writing to and prayed that they might be full of joy

JOY (שִׂמְחָה, simchah; χαρά, chara). Closely related to gladness and happiness, although joy is more a state of being than an emotion; a result of choice. One of the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22–23(KJV)). Having joy is part of the experience of being a Christian.

Galatians 5:22–23 (ESV): 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Romans 15:13 (MESSAGE): Oh! May the God of great hope fill you up with joy, fill you up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope!

Hope=Joy+Peace

The fruit of the Spirit is … joy: One of the greatest marketing strategies ever employed was to position the kingdom of Satan as the place where the fun is and the kingdom of God as the place of gloom and misery. But the fruit of the Spirit is joy.

i. We could say that this is the joy of the Spirit because it is a higher joy than just the thrill of an exciting experience or a wonderful set of circumstances. It is a joy that can abide and remain, even when circumstances seem terrible. Paul knew this joy personally; he could sing when manacled in a dark prison dungeon (Acts 16:25).

Acts 16:25 (KJV): 25 And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.

ii. Barclay on chara, the ancient Greek word used here for joy: “It is not the joy that comes from earthly things, still less from triumphing over someone else in the competition. It is a joy whose foundation is God.”

iii. “Believers are not dependent upon circumstances. Their joy comes not from what they have, but from what they are; not from where they are, but from whose they are; not from what they enjoy, but from that which was suffered for them by their Lord.” (Spurgeon)



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