Luke 9:18–20 (ESV) Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”
Matthew 16:13–17 (ESV) Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
What Is Revelation?
General Revelation: disclosure of truth through nature, history, and the human conscience.
Supernatural Revelation: the uncovering through the spirit.
2 Kings 6:15–17 (ESV) When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Why Is Revelation Necessary?
General Revelation Leads To Opinions
And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.”
Jesus Impact Is Obvious - General Revelation/Opinions:
Religion: Christianity, the religion founded on the teachings of Jesus, is the largest religion in the world, with approximately 2.3 billion adherents, making up nearly one-third of the global population.
Global Recognition: Jesus is recognized not only in Christianity but also in other religions like Islam, where he is regarded as a prophet. This highlights his broader historical and cultural impact across different belief systems.
Art and Literature: Jesus has been a central figure in Western art, literature, and music for centuries. Countless works in these fields have been inspired by his life and teachings, including masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Holidays and Festivals: Christmas and Easter, two of the most widely celebrated holidays globally, commemorate Jesus's birth and resurrection, respectively, highlighting his cultural significance.
Influence on Laws and Ethics: Many modern legal systems and ethical frameworks are influenced by Christian values derived from Jesus's teachings, such as the emphasis on compassion, forgiveness, and the sanctity of life.
Social Movements: Jesus’s teachings on love, justice, and equality have inspired numerous social movements, including the abolition of slavery, civil rights movements, and contemporary social justice efforts.
Phrases and Sayings: Many common phrases in English and other languages stem from Jesus's teachings (e.g., "turn the other cheek," "the Good Samaritan"), demonstrating his impact on language and moral discourse.
Education and Healthcare: Many universities, hospitals, and charitable organizations were founded by Christians inspired by Jesus’s teachings, which have had a lasting positive effect on society.
Continued Relevance: His teachings and parables are referenced in diverse contexts, from philosophy and ethics to psychology and conflict resolution. Many people across various cultures find relevance in his messages, irrespective of religious beliefs.
A Supernatural Revelation Is Necessary To Know God
John 6:44 (ESV) No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.
1 Corinthians 2:14 (ESV) The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
How Does Revelation Happen?
Proverbs 20:27 (ESV) The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.
Genesis 1:2 (ESV) The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
John 12:32 (ESV) And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
John 14:26 (ESV) But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
Revelation ≠ Response
1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV) But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
James 2:17 (ESV) So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
Romans 10:9 (ESV) because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Revelation 20:12, 15 (ESV) And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done… And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.
CONVINCED: The Book Of Luke
Luke 9:10–17 (ESV) On their return the apostles told him all that they had done. And he took them and withdrew apart to a town called Bethsaida. When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing. Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.” But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.” They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.” For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” And they did so, and had them all sit down. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And they all ate and were satisfied. And whatwas left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Unlock Natural Provision
Learn These Principless To Unlock Throughout Your Lifetime Unlock Supernatural Provision
Glorifies God
Will Far Exceed The Natural Provision
Provides A Powerful Testimony
Draws Others To Him
Powerful Gift To The Next Generation
Luke 9:11 (ESV) When the crowds learned it, they followed him, and he welcomed them and spoke to them of the kingdom of God and cured those who had need of healing.
Kingdom & Kingdom Principles
He’s about to demonstrate one of them
This story has a part two, smaller crowd, more leftovers
God rarely does the same thing twice That would to trusting a formula, not Kingdom principles - FAITH
VISION FOR A GOOD THING -
Luke 9:12 (ESV) Now the day began to wear away, and the twelve came and said to him, “Send the crowd away to go into the surrounding villages and countryside to find lodging and get provisions, for we are here in a desolate place.”
A GOOD THING BECOMES A GOD THING
Luke 9:13 (ESV) But he said to them, “You give them something to eat.”
Not all good things are God things
The Kingdom currency faith, but it can’t be faith unless God speaks
You can’t walk on water unless he invites or you or you function at a gift of faith leve
Sometimes we act on:
Emotions
Personal commitments
Peer pressure
We were convinced to buy something
Wrong: evangelist asking for your last dollar to unlock your miracle
Right: god asking for your last meal to unlock your abundant provision
God is not obligated to act on a good thing
Learn to hear God speak about a good thing and turn it into a God thing
ESTABLISH THE NATURAL GAP
Luke 9:13 (ESV) They said, “We have no more than five loaves and two fish—unless we are to go and buy food for all these people.”
Make no efforts to solve the issue in the flesh
ENGAGE OBEDIENCE & SACRIFICE
Luke 9:14–16 (ESV) For there were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” And they did so, and had them all sit down. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing over them. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd.
Sit down in groups
He took what they had
He blessed them
He broke the loaves
When you have a GOD need, and you’re believing for a
SUPERNATURAL OUTCOME, sacrificial giving to GOD unlocks
His FLOW of provision
2 Corinthians 9:6–8 (ESV) The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
ENJOY SUPERNATURAL PROVISION
Luke 9:17 (ESV) And they all ate and were satisfied. And what was left over was picked up, twelve baskets of broken pieces.
Luke 9:1–6 (ESV) And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Wrong Emphasis - CALLED TO DO
Specific Followers
Specific Gifting
Specific Place
Specific Outcome
Biblical Emphasis - CALLED “TO BE”
Every Follower
Luke 10:1 ESV After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go.
How did the 12 disciples feel when the 72 were sent?
How did the 72 feel when the crowds were sent?
YOU are called - there is no caste system.
Biblical Emphasis - CALLED “TO BE”
Every Action
1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV) So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Yes, gifting, but it doesn’t make you more important, just unique!
Biblical Emphasis - CALLED “TO BE”
Every Place
Not just church
Mark 16:15 (ESV) And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.
Moments with specific destinations - Acts 16:6–10 (ESV) And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
Home, work, friends, hobbies, community, politics
Biblical Emphasis - CALLED “TO BE”
Every Outcome - Kingdom!
“to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal”
Matthew 6:9–10 (ESV) Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Luke 8:4–8 (ESV) And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable, “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock, and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold.” As he said these things, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Luke 8:9–11 (ESV) And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, he said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God, but for others they are in parables, so that ‘seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand.’ Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
Kingdom of God (Heaven)
Intended Kingdom vs Kingdom of this World
God Is King vs Satan Is King
God’s Citizens Abundant Life vs Steal Kill & Destroy
God’s Word/Truth Is Law vs Lies and Deception Thriving
God’s Economy Of More vs Steal Kill and Destroy
Trumps The Kingdom Of This World
God’s Word Unlocks These Realities.
YOU ARE SOIL.
CIRCUMSTANCES ATTACK, ATTEMPTING TO LESSEN SOIL CONDITIONS.
GOD’S SEED IS SENT TO PURIFY SOIL FOR ABUNDANCE.
LOGOS: written Word, rightly interpreted and applied
RHEMA: right now Word, Spirit empowered
SOIL’S RESPONSE TO GOD’S WORD DETERMINES FUTURE FRUIT.
Hard Soil - Luke 8:12 ESV “The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.”
SOIL, hardened by frequent weight, impact
Hardened by life experience
Exodus 7:13 Yet Pharaoh’s heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said.”
Sun on clay vs. wax
Hardened by decision
Psalm 95:8 - "Do not harden your hearts, as you did at Meribah, as you did that day at Massah in the wilderness."
Especially true of Christians who are bombarded with God’s Word but do not treasure it. They almost become inoculated.
Ezekiel 11:19. “I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.”
Rocky Soil - Luke 8:13 ESV “And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away.”
Things allowed into the soil that should not be there - Proverbs 25:26 (ESV) Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.
Sometimes there is an immediate growth, excitement, but testing comes and it withers.
Specific seed sent by God to deal with specific rock - refusal to embrace truth
Congested Soil - Luke 8:14 ESV “And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature.”
The WORD is one of many things valued, like a book in the library that completes the collection, but not the primary source.
1 John 2:15–17 (NLT) Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
GOOD SOIL - Luke 8:15 ESV “As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.”
Hold Fast - Sailors - “Hold Fast” is a nautical term that refers to securing a rope or a line tightly to prevent it from slipping. In a broader sense, it conveys the idea of holding on firmly in the face of adversity. For sailors, this phrase served as both a practical reminder and a moral encouragement to remain steadfast, especially during difficult times at sea.
Prioritizing God’s Word above all else, securing it in one’s soil of life.
Patience = Fruit
Luke 7:36–50 (ESV) One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house and reclined at table. And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment, and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.” And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.” “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?” Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.” Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Illus: In 1987, Jessica McClure, better known as "Baby Jessica." fell into a abandoned well in Midland, Texas, while playing in her aunt's backyard. The rescue effort was televised across the nation and people were riveted by the heroism of the rescuers. After Jessica fell into the well, rescuers worked tirelessly for 58 hours to extricate her. The operation was complicated and required careful planning to ensure her safety while attempting to pull her out. Many firefighters, medical personnel, and volunteers were involved in the rescue, demonstrating remarkable bravery and determination. When she was finally rescued, Jessica was pulled from the well and rushed to the hospital, where she made a full recovery. The story of her rescue was broadcast on national television, and Jessica quickly became a symbol of hope and resilience. In the years that followed, Jessica often spoke about the incident and expressed her profound gratitude for the efforts of the rescuers who saved her life. As she grew older, she became an advocate for children's safety and awareness, sharing her story to help inform and educate others about the importance of safety measures. The tale of Baby Jessica's rescue touched millions and brought a sense of unity to those who followed her story, reinforcing the idea of community, heroism, and the impact of saving a life.
This is a story that riveted a nation, even the world, but did not include a miracle. Understand that the miracles Jesus did were captivating, on an even higher level due to their miraculous nature.
Jesus greatest miracle…
What Makes SIN a SIN?
GOD’S COMMAND - His Written Word, Properly Interpreted
Deuteronomy 11:26–28 (ESV) “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse: the blessing, if you obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I command you today, and the curse, if you do not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside from the way that I am commanding you today, to go after other gods that you have not known.
PERSONAL CONVICTION - His Spoken Word, To An Individual
Romans 14:5–6 (NIV) One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind. Whoever regards one day as special does so to the Lord. Whoever eats meat does so to the Lord, for they give thanks to God; and whoever abstains does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.
FAMILY STANDARD - His Spoken Word, For A Family
Jeremiah 35:6 (NIV) But they (Rekabites) replied, “We do not drink wine, because our forefather Jehonadab son of Rekab gave us this command: ‘Neither you nor your descendants must ever drink wine.
These are for your wellbeing and life
Example: “Thou shall not lie”
Deception
Contrary to Gods nature
Contrary to the world he created
Contrary to your nature
Damages your relationship with God
Damages your relationship with self
Damages the hearer, steals from them, known or not
Creates a wrong
Creates fear of being caught
Requires additional lies
Gets found out
Damages the relationship
Damages your situation
God doesn’t want that injected into the world he has created
And yet we have, over and over
Sin against self, others, surroundings and God
Psalm 51:3–4 (ESV) For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment.
Consider All Who Are Present - Which One Are You?
Sinless Jesus
“Righteous” Pharisees
Religious
Rule Followers
Didn’t Do Sinful Things
“God’s People”
Levels of righteousness based on achievement
Sinful Woman
Came to a gathering she would be rejected in
Weeping on his feet, wiped with her hair
Kissed his feet
Brought and poured perfume on his feet
REVELATION: I am a sinner, and Jesus can forgive sin.
Luke 7:50 (ESV) And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Undecided Crowd
The greatest miracle - forgiveness
Most other miracles are temporary
Forgiveness is active, all encompassing, impacts eternity
It requires faith
It requires revelation of your sin
Luke 7:1–10 (ESV) After he had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him. When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue.” And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.
Miracles Require 3 Things:
Declared Need
People are to proud to ask or reveal weakness
Relationships
Relationship with God
Relationship with people
Effective Faith
James 5:16 (NASB) The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.
Live “People Before _______________ ”
Luke 7:2 (ESV) Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him.
See yourself on MISSION in all things.
There has always been and will always be sticky times, sticky politics, sticky social situations
Jews, Centurions, Servants…
Democrats, Republicans, Democrats, Liberals
Refuse titles
See People “Worthy Of His Help” - Luke 7:3–5 (ESV) When the centurion heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his servant. And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our synagogue.”
Recognize The “I Need Your Jesus” Moment
Luke 7:2 (ESV) Now a centurion had a servant who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by him.
This may require discernment
This may require reading the hints
This may require seeing people in spite of task.
But it will come.
1 Peter 3:15 (ESV) but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,
Grow Your Faith
Luke 7:9–10 (ESV) When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.
Grow In Faith
Put yourself in situations to grow your faith
Lean into authority
Hebrews 11:1 (ESV) Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Hebrews 11:6 (ESV) And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
Pentecost EVERYday
Acts 2:1–13 (ESV) When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.”
Acts 2:41–47 (ESV) So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
God’s Presence, Inside Us
A constant theme is “God With Us”
Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV) It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.
Emmanuel, yet He’s leaving….
John 14:18 (ESV) “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
John 14:16–17 (ESV) And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for HE DWELLS WITH YOU AND WILL BE IN YOU.
God’s Power, In Us
God’s power, observed in Jesus
God’s promise, you will function in similar fashion
John 14:12–14 (ESV)“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
But how?
Acts 1:8 (ESV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
This is available to all.
Acts 2:16–19 (ESV) But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: “ ‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy. And I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;
Acts 2:43 (ESV) And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.
God’s Transformation, Through Us
So often we feel like we have to convince people of the reality of Jesus.
Peter was previously ineffective in convincing others because he was all over the map in his own convincing.
Acts 2:41 (ESV) So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
The Spirit came upon him… and he simply shared the truth, but that truth is empowered by the Spirit within him.
John 12:32 (ESV) And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
2 Corinthians 3:17–18 (ESV) Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.
Numbers 13:2 (ESV) “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel. From each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a chief among them.”
Moses/12 Spies
Moses killed men
Moses Fled
Burning Bush
Moses Returns
Plagues
Night of Death - Flee
Pursuit to the Sea
Miraculous Deliverance
2 Years of Desert Prepping
Seemingly Surviving
See The Shift From Now To Next
Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 (ESV) For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.
None of these seasons is a forever season
Realizing it is not forever is critical
Sensing the shift is critical
* Shifting seasons
* A Change In Circumstances
* Defined By A Finish
* Change In Fruitfulness
* Sometimes Planned
* Often Unexpected - Unexpected has a tendency to land us in survival mode. That’s OK for a short time, but it can turn into a posture, which is absolutely unacceptable.
1 Corinthians 2:14 (ESV) The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
Ephesians 5:10 (ESV) and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord.
Win The Now
Numbers 13:2 (ESV) “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the people of Israel. From each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a chief among them.”
Numbers 13:17–20 (ESV) Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan and said to them, “Go up into the Negeb and go up into the hill country, and see what the land is, and whether the people who dwell in it are strong or weak, whether they are few or many, and whether the land that they dwell in is good or bad, and whether the cities that they dwell in are camps or strongholds, and whether the land is rich or poor, and whether there are trees in it or not. Be of good courage and bring some of the fruit of the land.” Now the time was the season of the first ripe grapes.
Galatians 6:7 (ESV) Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.
The NOW determines the NEXT
You are not just serving the seasons, you are planting for the next.
The Now Is Not Always Pretty
The grind of a thing
The disappointment of a thing - outcomes vs. faithfulness
The the failing of a thing
The victory of a thing
The end of a you thing
What you do now matters.
NOW Sets The Tone For NEXT
Luke 6:20 (ESV) And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you…
Skipping Over…
Luke 5:27-31 - Calling of Levi
Luke 5:33-39 - Discussion on Fasting
Luke 6:1-5 - Discussion on Sabbath Rules
Luke 6:6-11 - Healing of Withered Hand
Luke 6:12-16 - Selection of Apostles from Disciples
Greek word that describes representatives in Roman culture who stayed in a conquered territory to establish Roman culture.
Looking Ahead…
Luke 6:17-19 - Jesus Speaks To A Large Crowd
Luke 6:20-49- Sermon on Mount
Luke 6:20-23 - The Beatitudes
Not a term in the Bible
English origin around the 15th century, and added to titling of this portion of scripture, most often 20-23
State of supreme blessedness and happiness
This portion of scripture is often spoken on with a 70’s beatnic, love not war, poetic, passive blend of christianity that welcomes any/all pushbacks that life can bring, because living a life under a mountain of struggle will be rewarded in heaven after we die. That is not the intention of this portion of scripture.
Luke 6:20 (ESV) And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you
He lifted up his eyes on his disciples
It is a gesture of prayer
It is a gesture of blessing
It connects heaven and earth in view and in words
View - it sees above and beyond the natural
Words - it resources the earth with the bounty of heaven
Illus: vacuum transfer at the bank as a kid
Jesus is not teaching, He is prophesying to his disciples
It’s more than information, it is a deposit with an invitation to access
BLESS(ED): The deposit of tangible deposits from heaven that add increasing value into one’s life until they reach full maturity in heaven.
The deposit of tangible deposits from heaven that add increasing value into one’s life until they reach full maturity in heaven.
As disciples we become citizens of Heaven. We have stepped into the Kingdom of God/Heaven as though we still live lives in this world. To be BLESSED, or walking in BLESSING, is the process of accessing heaven's value while living within earth’s limitations. Blessing someone else is the process of access and depositing heaven’s value into their life.
The believer/follower/disciple/citizen who fails to see, access or transfer heaven’s value is to needlessly go without those things that have been freely provided.
Ephesians 1:3–10 (ESV) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.
Philippians 3:12 (NIV) Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
Luke 6:20–23 (ESV) And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.
The poor (those lacking anything) can access supply
The hungry (those lacking anything) can access food
Those who weep can access consolation and joy
Those who experience hatred, smile, it will be rewarded.
Luke 5:17 (ESV) On one of those days, as he was teaching, Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting there, who had come from every village of Galilee and Judea and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was with him to heal.
This is not “Jesus Power”
This is the “Lord’s Power”
Acts 1:8 (ESV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
Luke 5:18 (ESV) And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus,
Paralyzed - what happened?
What was the accident/trauma?
We all have experienced accident/trauma
PARALYSIS is the state of being stuck
Physical
Emotional
Spiritual
BED is symbolic of where you are stuck.
Some beds are visible
Some beds are invisible
All beds have an impact.
FRIENDS who were “seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus,”
Luke 5:19 (ESV) but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus.
Solutions take work
Ministry will cost you something - this was Jesus’ house.
Mark 2:1–2 (ESV) And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them.
Illus: sacrifice for being in ministry
“God is not limited by my sacrifice, or my circumstance.”
Luke 5:20 (ESV) And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.”
Your miracle is not contingent upon just your faith!
Why does he need to be forgiven… what about the people who caused his paralysis
The greatest paralysis is not what was inflicted upon us, but our reaction too often becomes our sin.
The man did not ask for forgiveness.
Jesus/We can offer forgiveness without people asking
John 20:23 (ESV) If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
The greatest form of paralysis is our own sense of unforgiveness.
Declare forgiveness over people
Luke 5:23–25 (ESV) Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God.
We get excited about supernatural answers to prayer
Forgiveness is something we really grapple with to believe
Pick up your mat
You will always carry with you the memory, but it doesn’t have to debilitate you.
Isaiah 1:18 (ESV) “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.
Luke 5:1–11 (ESV) On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret, and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken, and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
Jesus: “Follow Me.”
He Is Always Inviting, Drawing (body, soul & spirit)
helkuo - to tug, draw or drag, metaphorically by an inward power
To His Disciples
To Everyone He Met
Through His Disciples To Others
After His Resurrection
His Disciples After His Ascension
Through His Church
Into Modern Day
It’s The Defining Mark Of Christianity
More Than Liking
More than Attending
More Than Believing
FOLLOWING
He Is Always Drawing, In General:
John 12:32 (ESV) And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will DRAW all people to myself.”
John 3:16 (ESV) “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Matthew 11:28 (ESV) Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
The Crowd:
Jesus is speaking, Lake of Gennesaret
Fisherman, merchants and customers
People who have come to hear Jesus
BUT Individually:
Matthew 11:27 (ESV) All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
John 6:44 (ESV) No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.
John 6:65 (ESV) And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”
Peter:
Night fishing, nothing caught, washing nets, end of shift
Jesus requested to get into Peter’s boat, requests that he push out
Jesus teaches the crowd but Peter is trapped to listen.
Jesus does what He always does - “trust me” - “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
Requires obedience
Make no sense - “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing!
Obedience unlocks the miracle - But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
That moment is the miracle that DRAWS
That moment REQUIRES a RESPONSE
Rejection
Likeability
Belief
Follow
FOLLOW: they left everything and followed him.
This is not a natural encounter, interaction and decision.
It unlocks everything
Leave everything and follow.
Luke 4:31–37 (ESV) And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, “Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him down in their midst, he came out of him, having done him no harm. And they were all amazed and said to one another, “What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!” And reports about him went out into every place in the surrounding region.
Where are all the demons today? Why don’t we see them being cast out as in Biblical times?
They Are Common And All Around Us.
We Identify Them In Scientific, Medical And Sociological Terms.
Mark 9:17–18 (ESV) “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute.
Luke 13:11 (ESV) And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself.
Mark 9:17–18 (ESV) “And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid.
Matthew 17:15 (ESV) For often he falls into the fire, and often into the water.
Mark 5:4–5 (ESV) for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones.
Luke 8:27 (ESV) For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he had not lived in a house but among the tombs.
Supernatural Activity (voices) - Acts 16:16–17 (ESV) As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.”
Addicts, Crazy, Homeless, Suicidal, Out Of Control, Evil
Instead Of Evicting Them, We Treat Their Host. Counseling. Drugs. Incarceration.
We Don’t Recognize Our Authority And Lack Power.
Luke 4:36 (ESV) And they were all amazed and said to one another, “What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!”
AUTHORITY: the legal right to give orders
Ex: wedding officiant, property title, law enforcement
Failure to take authority allows presence
POWER: the strength to enforce obedience
Some things are simple to enforce, others harder
A persona can gain in power or call in reinforcements
Job 1:9–10 (ESV) Then Satan answered the LORD and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason? Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.
Job 1:1–5 (ESV)
Jobwas blameless and upright, one who feared God and turned away from evil.
His sons and daughters used to “feast and drink”
Job would consecrate them, rise early and offer burnt offerings. For Job said, “It may be that my children have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts.” Thus Job did continually.
Mark 3:14–15 (ESV)
And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons.
Luke 4:31–33 (ESV) And he went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the Sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word possessed authority2. And in the synagogue1 there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice3,
Jesus ministry is often viewed taking place in a field or at a lake but it was daily in the synagogue or temple
Luke 19:47 (ESV) And he was teaching daily in the temple.
This is important as Jesus/disciples presence and emphasized the importance
Acts 2:46–47 (ESV) And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV) And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
Jesus teaching included the unique ingredients, authority and power (see next week)
Jesus came in contact with a man, in the synagogue who had the spirit of an unclean demon
The spirit was active in the life of a follower of Biblical Judaism, in the synagogue, the early version of the church
The spirit was triggered by Jesus' presence, teaching with authority causing an extreme response.
Luke 4:34–35 (ESV) “Ha! What have you to do with us, Jesus1 of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us?2 I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent and come out of him!”3 And when the demon had thrown him down in their midst, he came out of him, having done him no harm.4
Demons/spirits recognized Jesus. No other names of recognition were mentioned.
Demons/spirits recognized Jesus’ role in a future judgement or destruction they would face.
Matthew 8:29 (ESV) And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?”
Jesus was demonstrating and implementing an unexpected judgement by kicking them out of peoples lives.
Jesus typically told demons/spirits what to do; and refused to allow them to speak.
He did not ask the Father to do it, nor did He ask the demon to comply. He commanded.
Anti-sensational approach. One time he asked question, “what is your name” but allowing them to speak was atypical.
The demon did not harm the man him but did throw him down
Typically demons/spirits function was focused on individual limitation or harm
Mark 9:25 (ESV) And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.”
Matthew 17:15 (ESV) said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he has seizures and he suffers terribly. For often he falls into the fire, and often into the water.
Mark 5:5 (ESV) Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones.
This encounter was minimized.
Luke 4:36–37 (ESV) And they were all amazed and said to one another, “What is this word? For with authority and power1 he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out!” And reports about him went out into every place2 in the surrounding region.
Authority and power defined Jesus ministry, the ministry of his disciples, and the function of the New Testament Church.
Auhtoirty/Power at work generates good news. I believe that there is deficiency in fact based evangelism that is not partnered with power and authority. This is the Church of America’s biggest problem.
Key Facts About Demons/Spirits
Spiritual Beings With Unknown Origins
They Oppose God - demons are spiritual entities aligned against God’s authority. They are often associated with Satan, the adversary.
Matthew 12:24-26 – “But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, ‘It is only by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, that this man casts out demons.’ … If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself.”
They Negatively Impact People To The Level They Are Allowed
Mark 5:3–4 (ESV) He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him.
Their Presence Is Marked By Self Harm
Mark 5:5 (ESV) Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out and cutting himself with stones.
They Cause Physical Ailments
Matthew 9:32–33 (ESV) As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.”
They Lie & Deceive
They don’t just deceive others, they deceive you about them.
Most subtle - they are not real
Even more subtle - Rosemary’s Baby
John 8:44 (ESV) You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
They Impact Adults & Children
Mark 7:25 (ESV) But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet.
They Gain Access By Invitation, Proximity & Attack
Invitation - partnering with the spirit world, sex with many people
Proximity - around you and allowed to stay, family tree, things you’ve agreed with
Attack - most of
Job 1:8–10 (ESV) And the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?” Then Satan answered the LORD and said, “Does Job fear God for no reason? Have you not put a hedge around him and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.
Ephesians 4:27 (NIV) and do not give the devil a foothold.
1 Corinthians 6:15–18 (ESV) Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, “The two will become one flesh.” But he who is joined to the Lord becomes one spirit with him. Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.
They Are Alive And Well Today
Demons tend to be a fringe topic for the modern American church and personal recognition tend to be even more so. They are alive and well. We give them medical and genetic assignments and live with them often medicating them. They are present during
Night tremors
Addictions
Self Destructive Behaviors
Disease
Suicide
Self Harm/Mutilation
1 John 3:8 (ESV) The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.
Mark 3:14–15 (ESV) And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach and have authority to cast out demons.
Mark 16:17–18 (ESV) And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
Luke 4:14–15 (ESV) And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.
The Affirmation Journey Of Jesus…
Luke 2:40 (ESV) And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.
Luke 2:52 (ESV) And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
Luke 3:22 (ESV) and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
Luke 4:14–15 (ESV) And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and a report about him went out through all the surrounding country. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.
glorified: 1) to believe, to hold, to give praise, to laud, to value, to honour, 2) to be famous
Luke 4:22 (ESV) And all spoke well of him and marveled at the gracious words that were coming from his mouth. And they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?”
And Then It All Changed…
Luke 4:23–27 (ESV) And he said to them, “Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, ‘ “Physician, heal yourself.” What we have heard you did at Capernaum, do here in your hometown as well.’ ” And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heavens were shut up three years and six months, and a great famine came over all the land, and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.”
Luke 4:28–30 (ESV) When they heard these things, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. And they rose up and drove him out of the town and brought him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff. But passing through their midst, he went away.
THE FOUNDATIONS OF IDENTITY/VALUE:
CONCEIVED - What God Thinks/Says
BELIEVED - What You Think
PROJECTED - What You Say
PERCEIVED - What Others Think/Say
JESUS’ FOUNDATION REVEALED
CONCEIVED - What God Thinks/Says
Luke 3:22 (ESV) and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
BELIEVED - What You Think
John 8:58 (ESV) Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.
PROJECTED - What You Say
Luke 8:56 (ESV) And her parents were amazed, but he charged them to tell no one what had happened.
PERCEIVED - What Others Think/Say
John 2:24–25 (ESV) But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man.
WHICH FOUNDATION ARE YOU BUILDING ON?
CONCEIVED - What God Thinks/Says
BELIEVED - What You Think
PROJECTED - What You Say
PERCEIVED - What Others Think/Say
Proverbs 23:7 (KJV) For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he.
Psalm 139:13–18 (ESV) For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you.