Hickory Harvest - Weekly Sermon - Entries written by Kurt Gebhards

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow will stimulate their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction:
The Pharisees of Jesus’ day were big on hand washing. They focused on the outside being clean but on the inside they didn’t understand the dirt and mayhem within. Do you? Sunday’s message brought to a conclusion the study of our heart as Jesus exposed it but it didn’t bring to conclusion the work we need to do on our hearts. Are you ready to bring order into the mayhem?

1. Christ’s Maxim and its Meaning v. 14-20

What is a maxim and why are maxims so significant? Jesus presents an essential truth to anyone who claims to be following him. In the story, the Pharisees had stepped up and the crowd had stepped back. Super-religious people have that way about them; they are particularly dogmatic about their system of belief and tend to push it forward. Despite this, Jesus calls them all back to listen and understand Him. He knew they were primarily concerned with the outside but He cuts to the heart asking them to prepare to hear deep down in their heart. Why is that way of hearing important?

The Pharisees skill at blame shifting is evident in their view on defilement. What did their focus on outer influences and contacts reveal about their faith? How might pride influence this form of religious conduct? Jesus reveals God’s perspective, that the problem is the sinful make up and the nature of the heart. He states that our relationship with God depends upon our hearts condition.

Lifegroups helps you to build this relationship. By processing together with friends the truth you hear on Sunday God can change your heart. This all might be hard truth or a shock to you. If so, consider the message “The Hideous Discovery” by C.H. Spurgeon to expand your thinking on this issue. [ click here http://www.spurgeongems.org/vols31-33/chs1911.pdf ]

The problem within the heart is further defined in Jms. 1:13-15 where the sequence of our inner mayhem is listed. Can you break down the downward spiral of destruction there? The world calls us to follow our heart but Jesus’ call is for us to reject our heart’s desire. He calls us to let Jesus take control.

2. Man’s Internal Mayhem v. 21-23

We are experts at shifting blame. What are blame shifting reasons given for our fallen world? What have good moral folks tried to do to fix this world? Jesus points us to the heart as the place to bring order to the mayhem within. Our heart fails us. Would you concur that your heart has hurt you, betrayed you, or lied to you?

Jesus puts a “baker’s dozen” list together for us. It is not in a special order, nor is it complete but it does give us a start at seeing accurately the nature of our heart. Pastor Kurt identified four categories in the list. Can you identify them? Can you expand on the list from your life experience or observations?

Evil thoughts start the list and it plants a base of operation within our hearts. It is the first gear of the engine of our heart. Jesus is saying to you; let Me help you with your heart. Religious people miss this. They say I really don’t need a soul physician because I have appearances down. So which are you? Jesus’ plan is to shock us out of our lethargy, confusion or blindness. He wants us to grasp his salvation offer. Is that your need? Additionally He wants the child of God to receive His gracious forgiveness .Your heart needs heavens help. Will you put your heart in the fountain of his cleansing?

Pastor Kurt gave us four initiatives we can take in fighting the battle of the heart. They help us progress spiritually and to experience a growing healthy heart.

1)      Confess and receive __________________________ Jer. 2:2; 1Jn1:9; Heb 10:22; Titus 3:5,6; Rev 1:5

2)      Fight for your _________________  ____________ 1Tim. 6:12

3)      Kill every _______________________  ___________________ Gal 5:24

4)      Yield to the work of the ______________  _____________ Rom. 6:13,19

Pray for a great start to Lifegroups and Launchgroups. Pray for our people to grow more in their understanding and practically application this study. Pray that we would obey the call to fully understand the nature of the human heart and to respond obediently sharing the hope of Christ with someone with a hurting heart.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 02/05/12:
1^st hour – Blanchat
2^nd hour – Ferguson

Do a search of the Bible to get a solid grasp of the issues and order of the heart.

Gen. 6:5’ Ex. 7:13; Dt. 4:39; 5:29; 11:16; Josh. 22:5; 1 Sam 2:1; 12:24; 16:7; 1Kings 3:12; 8:61; 9:4; Job 9:4; 36:13; 37:24; Psa; 7:9; 10:17; 19:8,14; 26:2; 27:3, 14; 119; 10,11; Prov. 16:1,5, 21, 23; 17:22; 23;12, 15, 17, 19, 26; Eccl. 7:2,3; Gal. 6:9; Eph. 4:32; Col. 3:15,16; Heb. 10:22; 1 Jn. 3:20, 21

Romans 8:12-14 ; Galatians 5:16-17  

-What can we do? 2 Tim. 2:22
 the thoughts 2 Cor. 10:5 and the heart 1 Pet. 3:15

Keep in mind that in the Bible, the heart is the center not only of spiritual activity, but of all the operations of human life. “Heart” and “soul” are often used interchangeably (Deut. 6:5; 26:16; comp. Matt. 22:37; Mark 12:30, 33)  The heart is the “home of the personal life,” and hence a man is designated, according to his heart, wise (1 Kings 3:12, etc.), pure (Ps. 24:4; Matt. 5:8, etc.), upright and righteous (Gen. 20:5, 6; Ps. 11:2; 78:72), pious and good (Luke 8:15).

   The heart is naturally wicked (Gen. 8:21), and hence it contaminates the whole life and character (Matt. 12:34; 15:18; comp. Eccl. 8:11; Ps. 73:7). Hence the heart must be changed, regenerated (Ezek. 36:26; 11:19; Ps. 51:10–14), before a man can willingly obey God.

   The process of salvation begins in the heart by the believing reception of the testimony of God, while the rejection of that testimony hardens the heart (Ps. 95:8; Prov. 28:14; 2 Chr. 36:13).

Christ, Our Compassionate
 King
Isa. 42:1-4

by Pastor Kurt Gebhards

Introduction:
It seems Christmas time is a prime season to think about others and the gifts we wish to give them. Some work very hard at gift giving while others let it go until the last minute hoping just to get it over with. If you are like me you probably enjoy thoughtful gifts, those that reflect care and attention. In our study of Isa. 42:1-4 we discovered the mind of God as He sent His Son as the greatest gift of all time.

1. Christ, Our Compassionate King

Pastor Kurt defined the word compassion. How did the appearance of Jesus, coming to earth as a baby, display God’s compassion? The text in Isaiah 42:3 refers to a bruised reed. What does the bruised reed represent and what does it picture about us? God sees value in us as sinful and as worthless as we may be and He is desirous of investing greatly in our lives and for our well being.

This verse also refers to a dimly burning wick. What does that phrase represent? How are we like a wick that is about flicker out and to be thrown away? It’s an amazing grace that God has displayed to us in His Son.

Read 2 Cor. 5:17 to gain a full view of the redemptive compassion of God for us while were yet in our sin. This sovereign redemptive compassion is one facet of God’s goodness (Ps. 100:5; Mark 10:18), that is, the glorious kindness and generosity that touches us all (Ps. 145:9, 15-16). This compassion ought to lead all sinners to repentance (Rom. 2:4). This mercy, compassion and pity showing us kindness in our distress rescues us from all of our troubles (Psa. 107, 136).

 The supreme expression of God’s compassion is still, His removal of our sinfulness, the amazing grace and inexpressible love by saving sinners who deserve only condemnation. Consider what it cost Him, Christ’s death on Calvary (Rom. 3:22-24; 5:5-8; 8:32-39; Eph. 2:1-10; 3:14-18; 5:25-27).

2. And Can It Be? Christ’s Compassion for Me

Isa. 42:1 begins with the word “Behold”. Why is this word significant? When you look at Jesus do you see the compassion that He has for you? The passage tells us that the Servant’s purpose is to establish justice in the earth. It is repeated here twice. What is the justice about which He refers? What is the significance of the justice Jesus brought to earth? Jer. 9:24; Isa. 51:5-6; 56:1; 63:1; 1 John 1:9 How do you plan to display the compassion of the King to those you see this week? Pray for an opportunity to make Him known.

 Four Attitudes
for Generous Giving
2 Cor. 9: 6-8

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive.

Introduction:
Luke 19:1-10 tells the story of Zaccheus who, upon meeting Jesus, experienced a radical heart change that produced incredible generosity. He went from extreme self-interestness to excellent bigheartedness. Read verse 8 and consider, how does one’s relationship to Christ influence one’s attitude about generosity? Is it true that real life change will be seen in the attitude with which we give?

1. Thankful for reward: Gratitude v. 6

Farmers understand well the principle of sowing and reaping. Have you ever started a garden only to discover in the harvest you were too stingy with the seed? The same principle applies to our attitude and when giving. God wants us to recognize that there is a bountiful supply of seed and that we need to spread it with an attitude of gratitude.
Have you ever met someone whose spiritual heart is expressed something like this? I have heaven so it doesn’t matter what I do on earth. To help them, sort through the following passages so as to develop a response to people who operate independently of the God-given guidelines for giving. Discover the “Law of Recompense”. [In the NT 2 Cor. 9:6; 2Cor. 5:10; Heb. 6:10 and in the OT and gospels Mal. 3:8-10; Mt. 6:19-20; Lk. 6:30] How would you summarize these verses and apply them to yourself?

2. Thoughtful and planned: Purpose v. 7a

Giving generously requires operating by a plan. Why do some people feel it is more spiritual to give of their own fee will? What might be motivating that type of giving? Do some people give to their local church based upon their likes and dislikes? What about those who might replace giving to the local church with giving to some other Christian endeavor? 1Cor. 16: 1-2 provide us with clear guidance to give with a plan.

Pastor Kurt informed us that a tithe is a benchmark or guide and not the measure. He expanded on the plan to include these ideas – be generous – be sacrificial – give of your best Prov. 3:9-10 – crush consumerism. Why must we grasp these principles firmly? Do you know what you have given this year? What % do you plan to give next year?

3. Thrilled by the opportunity: Joy v. 7b
What is grudging giving? What are some of the indicators of one who is grudging? Our church has been very generous. Our giving is a great encouragement. It is evident from the statistics that many give generously with joy. Some give out of poverty and need. Joy is the outcome of generosity. Pray for “The Next Generation” offering next Sunday Dec. 18^th to impact over 100,000 believers around the world because of our generosity. What will you plan to give?

4. Thriving by His grace: Grace v. 8

In the Old Testament, God’s people were expected to give around 25% of their income to the Lord’s work. This was under the Law. We are under grace. God promises that grace will abound to us if we grasp the grace of God and give with generosity. Is that your desire? What relationship do you have with your wallet? Is it concealed, revealed or yielded?

Lifegroup Mutual Ministry Moment:

During your mutual ministry time share how you have been the beneficiary of God’s generosity. How have others blessed you? How will you plan to bless others this season by being more generous?

Pray for our special Next Generation offering planned for Dec. 18^th that each of us would take up the “Joy of Generosity” in order to make a difference in church leaders around the world.. Pray for a fruitful opportunity to share the love of Christ with the people during this Christmas season. Pray that we would use every opportunity to be a source of gospel progress.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 12/18/11:
1^st hour – Rhodes
2^nd hour – Mahoney

In every movie thriller there is a good guy and a bad guy. In the movies the good guy usually wins yet in the life of the believer an accurate and honest assessment of the heart will reveal that our heart, though new, is still prone to wander and naturally does bad stuff. It is the enemy within but, it can be tamed by God’s grace.

1. The Heart: It’s Not a Pretty Picture

A real look at the heart will shock some folks. But it is an exercise worth the effort. When it comes to training our hearts to honor God, what do we need to do according to Prov. 4:23? How do you do that?

The reason for setting up such a defense for our heart is because of the Biblical imagery found throughout the Scriptures. In the following verses answer, what are some discoveries about the heart, as God sees it and how would you apply the following verses to His image of your heart [Gen. 6:5; Eccl. 9:3; Jer. 9:5; 17:9; Eph. 4:17-19; Gal. 3:10]?

What kind of heart is God willing to receive at the time of one’s salvation? Why must we be very accurate in understanding this truth?

2. God Transforms the Born-Again Heart: Romans 6-7

By understanding the fact of our depravity at our salvation and the fact of our needing the righteousness of Christ to save us, we can enter life and eternity with full confidence for our salvation. But first, we must grasp the nature of the born again heart which makes us a saint [define that word saint].   Review the following verses and identify terms that characterize the nature of our new hearts [Ezk. 36:26; Rom. 6:6; 2Cor 5:17; Col. 3:9; Heb. 10:22]. Now review the verses that remind us that our heart still has work to do [Rom. 8:13; Jas. 1:14; 4:1, 8; 1Pet. 2:11]. What is the seeming tension represented in these Scriptures? What might go wrong if we don’t grasp both sides of the story?

Pastor Kurt invited us to consider Rom. 6:6-7; 7:21-24. He then pointed us to Rom. 6:19 as the key to our understanding the heart. Can you put these verses into simple terms that bring an accurate understanding of your heart? Take a moment to suggest practical ways to apply the word “present” in Rom. 6:19. How do we do that?

3. A Theological Game Changer: Positional vs. Progressive Sanctification

Pastor Kurt used the diagram that you will find on the back of this study to summarize the nature of sanctification and the process going on in the believer’s heart. It shows our positional sanctification and our progressive sanctification working in concert all through this life. Why must we understand well our positional sanctification? Who is the One that accomplishes it?

How does Col. 1:29 explain the exertion and effort on our part and the Spirit’s work in us as we are progressively sanctified?

4. How to Grow Spiritually

Pastor Kurt offered a helpful illustration using a sail boat explaining how we can make progress in our lives. A sail needs wind to make progress and so do we. Who is the wind in our sails?

Read Eph. 5:18 & Col. 3:16 to identify the filling that the Holy Spirit provides us. Look at the following passages and confirm the daily assistance that His filling supplies [John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:8, 13, 24; Rom. 8:26, 28; 1Cor 2:10-15; Eph. 6:17; Titus 3:5; 1Jn. 2:20] Why must we be vigilant to verify that the Spirit of Truth directed by the Word of truth is the One guiding us to overcome the assaults upon our hearts?

Pray for our missionaries Chris and Beth Matthews as they serve as part of our ministry team in Spain. Pray for a good opportunity to share the love of Christ with the people we cross paths with during the Christmas season. Pray that we would obey the call to fully understand the nature of the human heart and to share the hope of Christ with a friend.

Heart Diagram: Use this diagram to familiarize yourself with the work of God in your heart as relates to your position in Christ and in the process of your sanctification.

Jesus is not your Homeboy:
Are you missing Jesus’ glory?
Mark 6:45-56

Introduction:

As we began our study we were reminded, in the homeboy T-shirt image of Jesus, how we tend put Jesus into an image or concept that is comfortable to us or that we might identify with. It brings Him down to our level. He is warm. He is tender. He is at your service. He is made in my image. Rather, God wants us to grasp His transcendence, that He is high above us, that He is holy other, that He is to be seen in His glory. Here’s our point, He is much more than a homeboy. He is the Lord. This is the noble concept this generation must pass to the next to have any hope for the church.

1. Jesus’ Plan is Better than Your Plan [v. 45-46]

Recall the experience of the disciples last week. What did they hope to do with Jesus? How did their plans turn out? Read Jn. 6:14-15 and identify what additional plans the people had for Jesus. The disciples remind us of ourselves in that they had what they considered to be a great plan and when Jesus changed it they didn’t do so well. What are you dealing with in your life that reveals a lack of submission to God’s plan? List those and then work toward a Christ honoring solution during your mutual ministry time.

When Jesus sent the disciples out on the sea what did He do? What does He do for us? How does Rom. 8:34 encourage you to submit to His plan for you at home, at work, in your day to day experience, in your relationships? The disciples didn’t like Jesus’ plan but are we any different? How might a Launchgroup help you in this? How does Lifegroup encourage you in this?

2. Jesus’ Power is all that You need [v.47-52]

Popular Christianity believes that if I just obey Him I will have an easy life or no problems or more money or happiness or… you get the idea. What is wrong with that kind of thinking? The disciples were scared, tortured from rowing and exhausted after 9 hours of seemingly fruitless effort. And this was the result of obeying Jesus. What do you think they were thinking about Jesus about then? Ever felt that way?

Look again at the text of verse 48. Pastor Kurt identified three things Jesus did. He __________, He Cares for His own, He ___________ up. Do you know this to be true from your experience? Share that experience with the group. How did the disciples respond to Him?

Jesus appeared on the water, a concept from the Old Testament Scriptures that they should have known [Job 9:8; Psa. 77:19; Hab. 3:15]. Apparently, you can hide God’s Word in your heart… and just leave it there! What is wrong with that?

How did Jesus go on to calm them, what did He say? In the middle of His encouraging words He said. “it is I” Pastor Kurt explained the importance of that phrase, I AM, that refers to Him as Yahweh, as the self-existent One, as Lord. A concept they could understand and recall from the Scriptures. Do you understand the power that is available in the name “I Am”?

Explain the phrase, “their heart was hardened”. What was their heart missing? How could they not get it? How do we sometimes miss the working of God when it is right in front of us? What might we be lacking?

3. Jesus’ Person Deserves Your Worship [v.53-56]

In this final section we see Jesus’ ongoing ministry summarized. There is no reference to teaching or dealing with demons, only that of much healing. Why do you think this was the focus of Jesus’ ministry? What did the crowds desire of Him? Is it possible for us to desire Jesus the healer or miracle worker but not truly worship Jesus? How so?

We can miss worship when we forget how “wholly other” God is. We can become more familiar with this when we look at ourselves in contrast to Him. Have you done that lately? [See Ex. 8:10; 15:11; 2Sam. 7:22; 1Kings 8:23, Psa. 50:21; 71:19; Isa. 40:18, 25]

Lifegroup Mutual Ministry Moment:

During your mutual ministry time ask for your group to respond to what are they dealing with in their life that reveals a lack of submission to God’s plan. Take the list and work together toward a Christ honoring solution, one that can tap into His power, one that you can be accountable together for. When you are done, WORSHIP HIM.

Going Deeper

Knowing God While You Wait

I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope. Psalm 130:5

There is a sense in which we have to wait before God for Him to make Himself known to us so we can increase in our understanding of Him. Why? Because that is how we learn anything. We learn things in the human realm by acquiring a new piece of knowledge and comparing it to something we already know. But with God, since He is beyond our finding out, we have nothing to compare Him to. Our sinful lives are no help. We can never know God completely while in this human flesh because we don’t have enough common ground to associate who He is with what we know. That’s why it is good to consider the transcendence of God, that there is an infinite gulf between man the creature and God the creator. So, we are consigned to waiting before Him as He reveals more of Himself to us in His Word and in our experience. If that seems strange, it is because we are not used to thinking of God in the truly transcendent terms in which He exists. As we grow in our experience and knowledge of God, we develop more and more common ground with Him, by which we can learn even more. Therefore, knowing God is a process, and waiting before Him in worship is the means to knowing Him better.

Study the following passages to understand and know Him better in His glory.

Ex. 8:10; 15:11;
2Sam. 7:22
1Kings 8:23
Psa. 50:21; 71:19
Isa. 40:18, 25
Psa. 139
Job 36:26.

Galilee 90210: Malice, Marriage and the Martyrdom of John the Baptist
Mark 6:14-29
by Pastor Kurt Gebhards

Introduction: As the sermon title this week indicates, the Bible is filled with dramatic and very real illustrations of just how crazy life in a fallen world can be. God orchestrated the events surrounding John the Baptist’s life as well as the events surrounding ours to help us learn and grow. How has God used a dramatic episode in your life to teach you and to remind you that this life is indeed fallen?

1. The Baptist’s Ministry v. 14-16
John the Baptist was a man who definitely focused on ministry. Read Matthew 3:1-5. What lessons can we learn from observing John the Baptist’s life? Do you think that he was tempted by the pleasures of the world? Why or why not?

2. The Herodian Soap Opera v. 17-18
John the Baptist was bold as he preached repentance. We know this because he was even willing to call out a king living in adultery & incest. How should this encourage us? Is there anyone who causes you to be afraid as you consider sharing the gospel with them? Ask if anyone in the group has ever had to overcome the fear of evangelizing someone?

3. The Fool’s Cowardice v. 19-28
Pastor Kurt shared that every person on the planet falls into either one of two categories. They are either (1) Never Forsaken or (2) Ever Forsaken. How do the circumstances of John the Baptist’s life appear as if he was "forsaken" by God? Where did John the Baptist go as soon as He was martyred? King Herod lived a forsaken life of pleasure and partying without God. His conscience over his pursuit of sin left Herod perplexed (v. 20). How can our pursuit of sin likewise leave us perplexed?

4. The Martyr’s Legacy v. 29
It has been aptly said "the world’s smallest package is a person wrapped up in themselves." The legacy of John the Baptist is clothed in humility. Read John 3:30 together. What principle can we draw from John the Baptist’s example that will lead us toward the path of humility? How will Christ increase in your life this week?

Lifegroup Mutual Ministry Moment:
During your mutual ministry time use the terms "Silver, Sex & Sloth." As you consider your personal struggles with lust and temptation which of these three areas did you find yourself struggling with the most this week? Pray that God would reveal evil desires that need to be dealt with in all three of these areas. Praise God for the person that followed orders and brought the good news of the gospel into your life and the change that it has made. Pray that we would honor our commander with our service and good works. Pray that Lifegroups would be your place for increased understanding, practical application and honest interaction. Pray that you would sow the seed at home, at work or in your neighborhood and see fruit from F3.

Going Deeper
Take a closer look into the life of John the Baptist. Read and meditate on John 3:30 and Luke 3:15-16. How do these passages encourage you? Read Psalm 139:23-24. Ask God to reveal areas in your life where you believe He wants you to grow. Pursue the appropriate passages that instruct you in those areas. Pursue your Lifegroup leader or mentor if you need help finding Scriptures.

Missing Jesus

Mark 6:1-6

by Pastor Kurt Gebhards

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow stimulates their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction: Maybe you don’t remember the 3D pictures of the 90’s that drew such crowds at the mall but some of us do. We looked at the “art” but never got it. Whatever it was that we were to see, well, it escaped us. Similarly, some look at Jesus and experience the same. Looking at Him they just don’t get it. God wants us to look to Jesus. And all of eternity depends on if you miss or get Jesus. Do you?

1. Looking at Jesus makes you a Jesus misser. v. 1-3

Jesus’ center for ministry was in Capernaum but in this passage we find Him back home in Nazareth. You’d think home would be a receptive place but look at a year earlier when Jesus visited in Lk. 4:28-30 and answer, how did His friends respond to Him then?

Now, a year later, He returns and speaks on the Sabbath at the synagogue. Read verses 1-3 and identify each of the questions they asked. How did they question His ministry? How did they question His claim of who He was? Pastor Kurt shared the quote, “When you can’t explain Jesus you tend to reject Him”. Have you observed this to be true in others? Is it true in you? Stop now and pray for them [or for yourself].

Each of the questions they raised centered on a doubt they held against Christ. What were their doubts? Each of their doubts were answered with the truth. What are the answers? Now take a moment and review their doubts and then think about people you might know that do not have a genuine saving faith in Christ. How can you assist them to know the truth so that they might overcome doubt and believe?

The Bible says they “took offense”. Kurt shared how this word refers to a trap that kills them. Can you explain that further? Who are other Bible personalities that looked at Jesus and rejected Him?

What does it mean to “look at” Jesus? What does it mean to “look to” Jesus?

Pastor Kurt listed at least 7 excuses people give for missing Jesus. What were they? Is one true of you?

2. Looking to Jesus makes you a Jesus getter. v. 4-6

If you trace the ministry of Jesus in the gospels, you will see a pattern in the ones that “look to” Jesus. They get the facts about Jesus right and they get their attitude about Jesus right. What are the facts that you must acknowledge as true? What is the nature of a right attitude about Jesus?

What is the word in vs. 4 that Jesus uses to describe His desire from us if we are going to “look to” Him? What does it look like to “honor Jesus”?
The unbelief of these neighbors astonished Jesus. His response was to not be able to do anymore miracles. Was He out of power to do the miracles? Pastor Kurt shared that “if you don’t believe Jesus you won’t benefit from Jesus’ power or goodness” [Psa. 115:3]. Do you believe?

Jesus left the region never to return. They had their opportunity and He did not give another. He continued on teaching around the region. Jesus was a teacher. He wanted people to listen to His truth and respond in obedience. Immediately.
 What does this realization, namely, that God may no longer speak to someone who rejects- what does it do to you? What change might it make to our witness if we recognize that this may be the last time this person hears the gospel?

Lifegroup Mutual Ministry Moment:

During your mutual ministry time take seriously the call of this passage to “look to” Jesus. Are you building your faith? [Mt. 8:5-10] List 5 ways your faith is growing. Encourage each other on what it means to honor Jesus, to trust Jesus and to listen to Jesus in the flow of life. Ask if any have not obeyed in believer’s baptism by immersion like we saw on Sunday. If not, have them join the class on Nov. 6^th during 2^nd service.

Praise God for the person that brought the good news of the gospel into your life and the wonder of the change it has made. Pray that we would honor, trust and listen to the Lord. Pray that Lifegroups would be your place for increased understanding, practical application and honest interaction. Pray that you would sow the seed at home, at work or in your neighborhood. Pray for an opportunity to extend an invitation for your friends to visit our church.  Pray for us to be a catalyst that impacts our community, and leaves a savor of Christ making His name great in Hickory.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 10/16/11:
1^st hour –  S. Sherrill
2^nd hour –  J. Sherril

A Working Catalyst: Faith on Display

John 14:12

by Pastor Kurt Gebhards

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow stimulates their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction:

This week’s message continued the sermon series called “Catalyst.” Over the last two Sundays we were challenged to be a worshipping catalyst and then a walking catalyst. This week Pastor Kurt used God’s Word to challenge us to be a working catalyst. Has the word “catalyst” challenged you spiritually in the recent weeks? Why or why not?

1. The Foundation of Faith

A correct understanding of the gospel provides a foundation to genuine saving faith and also helps us to correctly understand good works. What were some of the myths related to “good works” and salvation that Pastor Kurt mentioned in his sermon? Can “good works” lead us to salvation OR help us to gain approval in God’s sight? What passages offer a helpful perspective about good works as they relate to salvation? Name one of the four legitimate reasons that Pastor Kurt gave for good works. Which one did you relate to the most?

2. The Wonder of Greater Works

Read John 14:12. Jesus mentions that believers will do “greater works” than He did. What explanation did Pastor Kurt share about this? Read John 5:17 together. How does this verse encourage us to work? On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being very good…How would you rate the faithfulness of your service to God in the church?

3. The Help of the Holy Spirit

What are some reasons why you believe there are negative attitudes toward serving in the local church? How can the indwelling and enabling power of the Holy Spirit help a believer serve with the right motive(s)? How often do you check your motives before serving Lord?

4. Getting after it

Kurt mentioned two aspects of Sunday morning worship at Harvest. Worship and the __________ and worship and the ______________? Have you gotten after both? How has the answer to this last question impacted your spiritual walk?

Pray that we would joy in our salvation and the benefits of God’s grace through service for others that makes us a working catalyst. Pray that Lifegroups would be your place for increased understanding, practical application and honest interaction. That each group would encourage each other in our walk and would look for ways to serve each other. Pray for an opportunity to extend an invitation for your friends to visit our church. Pray for us to be a catalyst that impacts our community, and leaves a savor of Christ making His name great in Hickory.

Becoming a Worship Catalyst

Psalm 34:1-3

by Pastor Kurt Gebhards

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow stimulates their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction:

Pastor Kurt instructed us that “we were born once to be a human but we were born again to be a catalyst”. What is a catalyst? How can we make that difference in our world? When the first followers of Christ moved out into the nations they “turned the world upside down”. They mixed it up and became a catalyst that has continuing affect on the world today. We want to be the same. List the places, people and circumstances where you have an opportunity to be a catalyst and begin Lifegroup with a prayer to mix it up and make a difference.

1. A Worship Catalyst Makes a Difference to God 

Read Psalm 34:1-3. Identify the five exhortations for us to enable our worship of God. How do we do that? What should it look like? If Scripture commands us over 400 times to exalt God what should our desire, attitude and response be to that priority?

There is no better psychological exercise than to praise God. In times of a proliferation of therapy sessions, focus and response to the character and glory of God is our greatest help.
Is God glorious? Should we glorify Him? Does your praise make God more glorious? We discovered that the attribute of God’s glory is fixed [2 Tim.4:18]. From before time began His glory and character has been in place. What is the value of a reality like that for our worship? What should we do about this fact? Simply WORSHIP Him!
Isa. 43:7 & 21 lays out the importance of our ascribing glory to God. How do these verses make us understand that we are here to glorify Him? Consider Neh. 9:5-6; Isa. 25:1; 1Cor. 6:20; Phil. 3:3 and list how we can ascribe glory to God. What are several specific elements of our worship found in these verses? Is your worship an ocean in size or do you give a thimble of glory?

2. A Worship Catalyst Makes a Difference

A. What should that look like?

The humble recognize their need to express glory to God. They want to express it in a corporate fashion because it should not be kept to oneself. Why is corporate worship so import? Read Rom. 15:5,6 and ask, how are we as a Lifegroup communicating this kind of unity? How are we as a church portraying unity in our worship? How might our worship put the light on God’s glory?
How do we do this? Psa. 24:7-10 instructs us in the value of preparation for experiencing the full benefit in worship. What do you find in the passage? It is not speaking to the literal gates but to the hearts of the people who seek to worship. Can you explain why heart preparation is crucial to worship? Kurt shared two ways to engage in being a catalyst. What are they? There is great glory impact when we mix it up with guests, new friends or with those on the fringe. Will you make this your plan?

B. Why we should do that.

Jesus ministry on earth concluded joining His Father in heaven while leaving a closing challenge to all of His disciples. It is our privilege and our opportunity to live like Christ, love God and serve others. His glory hangs in the balance and our time of corporate gathering provides one of the finest opportunities to exalt Him. We are not here for ourselves; we are here for Him and for our neighbors. What does that thought do to your attitude as you enter to worship? Will you be a catalyst for communicating His love and bringing Him glory?

Pray that we would take seriously our duty to ascribe glory to God and to be a catalyst. Pray that Lifegroups would be your place for increased understanding, practical application and honest interaction about how to encourage each other in our walk. Pray for an opportunity to extend an invitation for your friends to visit our church.  Pray for our being a catalyst to impact our community, to leave a savor of Christ and to make His name great in Hickory.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 09/18/11:
1^st hour – Bilhorn
2^nd hour – Ball

Introduction: Read Psalm 19 and review together the focus of each of the three sections to see the text in its context. Put in your own words a summary of vs. 1-6, vs. 7-11 and vs. 12-14. How does each summary segment, looking at creation, the Word and your heart, apply to your experience today?

1) God’s Word is Totally Sufficient We live in a day when everyone wants more, they want an advantage. Even fast food providers offer a super-size! When it comes to God making His heart known to us it is good to have confidence that He has made it known everything we need in His law. It is sufficient. What are some ways that people might suggest that the Word is insufficient? Where might they suggest to go for something more? What are some ways that God has spoken into your life situation through His Word, and in doing so He restored your soul? How does the Word restore our soul [Psa. 119:50] when we embrace the gospel? What are some ways that the testimony of the Lord [2Tim. 3:16] reflects His character? The Psalmist identifies us all as simple. What does that mean Rom. 12:3? How has the Word made you wise in the matters of life, family, work and relationships? The precepts of God instruct us in the dos and don’ts of living in obedience to Him. Psa. 119:142 tell us that His righteous standard never expires. What is the outcome after we’ve strayed and then returned to the Lord? How does Jer. 15:16 visualize and explain it?

How does our culture respond to commandments? It is natural to rebel. Why is it important to hear and obey the commandments of God? What does it mean to enlighten the eyes? Why is this a critical center for life-change?

The phrase “of the LORD” occurs several times. What is the significance of this word rendered Jehovah or Yahweh in the language of the writer?

The sufficiency of Scripture applies promises to the needs of our heart and soul. What can happen if one pursues promises for physical healing and the healing does not take place? What might that do to one’s faith in God? Why do we need to commit to the sufficiency of Scripture?

2) God’s Word is Totally Perfect How does the Word work in us to make us clean? Read Psa. 119: 128, 160, 89,137-138 and identify the ways the Word is perfected.

3) God’s Word is Totally Worth It Gold would appear to be a good investment since it has multiplied value three times in 6 years. How is the Bible a more valuable commodity than gold? What riches can be anticipated when the Word is read, memorized and meditated upon? Honey was the rare resource for experiencing something sweet to the taste. In what way is the Word a rare sweetener for living life? What are some rewards for being a Word centered individual, family or church?

How to apply these truths

Pastor Kurt stated that it is not the case that we are uninformed, we are just not inspired! How can a life time of constant exposure to Bible teaching in church, Sunday School and on the radio actually be detrimental to your spiritual well being? How could that happen? Col. 3:16 tells us to let the Word dwell in you richly. How can we do that? Who can you ask to give you help? What is your plan for growth?

Pray that we would respond to the realization that the Bible is sufficient and be motivated to make it a daily source of spiritual help and nourishment. Pray that Lifegroups would be your place for increased understanding, practical application and honest interaction about how to encourage each other in our walk. Pray for an opportunity to extend an invitation for your friends to visit our church. Pray for the Proverbs Project to impact our lives with wisdom and understanding that provides an immeasurable advantage in every situation of life.

The Prayer Test:
Your Greatest Weapon or Last Resort?

James 5:13-18

by Pastor Jon Krick

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow stimulates their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction:
This Sunday’s message covered three lessons on prayer that should drive you to your knees.

James 5:13-18 offers a “test of genuine faith” by having us examine our obedience to pray. If you were to examine your prayer life would there be enough evidence to prove that you are a believer? Pastor Jon mentioned that we all fall short and that God used this passage as a reminder for him to pray more. How did it serve as a reminder for you?

The first lesson on prayer from the sermon is…

                                I.            Petitions in Prayer  vv.13-14

The opening verses covered different petitions in prayer. Do you remember what they were? (Spiritual, emotional & physical). Which type of petition do you find yourself praying about the most? Pastor Jon told the story about losing his contact lens and his wife Viktoriya finding it. What helped her to find it? Do you agree that would should pray about even the small things in life? Why or Why not?

The second lesson on prayer from the sermon is…

                              II.            Protection in Prayer  vv.15-16ab

What were the three aspects of protection that God revealed in the passage? Do you have a problem with anyone in the church? Has sin breached your fellowship with someone? Do you avoid talking to someone or believe that they have sinned against. Do you believe that you have a biblical responsibility to seek them out and restore unity? What does Matthew 18:15 command us to do? How can prayer help in this area?

The third lesson on prayer from the sermon is…

                            III.            Power in Prayer vv.16c-18

Power and prayer can be seen why God says “yes” and when He says “no.” How does Christ’s example of being told “No” in prayer from God the Father impact you? Elijah’s example is powerful when God answered “yes” to his requests. Discuss how you believe he prayed during those three and a half years. William Carey, often called the father of modern missions, had a paralyzed sister praying for him every day? How did her story of prayer impact you?

After this sermon how do you think that God would have you change your prayer life? What are some changes that you can make this week? How can your Lifegroup offer accountability to pray?

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 08/14/11:
1^st hour –
2^nd hour –

You are not expected to cover every detail of this Pulpit Curriculum, rather, consider it a resource to help you in guiding your group to a deeper understanding of the Word and to gain richer profit from the Word’s application to life. Lifegroup leaders may find it beneficial to select 3 to 6 questions that will make the time most productive. Remember, there is great benefit to group members whose hunger to grow stimulates their returning, on their own at a later time, so as to understand and apply it further.

Introduction:
Pastor Kurt began this week’s study on the security of the believer by drawing our attention to the remarkable beauty of our country. The purple mountain’s majesty, the waves of grain the seas and coastlines cause us to marvel. The same is true in the heart of every committed follower of Christ who scans the landscape of our security in Christ. Our hope in this study is that you will understand the calming benefit of our security in Christ.

1. Security is God’s Reality

Security:  The absolute safety of salvation based on the character of God and the work of Christ.

There is something powerful in realizing that our security is fixed in who God is and in the work that Jesus did on our behalf. Maybe you are one who needed to hear this encouragement, “He got us in and He will get us through”. How does the promise “we are more than conquerors” in  Rom. 8:37 confirm your security? The construction of the word conqueror uses the word ” nike” with the added prefix “hyper” to help us comprehend the overwhelming nature of our victory. [Jn. 16:33] What does that reality do to the doubts that arise in your mind? What should that reality do to your fears? Your anxiety?
Our security in Christ means that we can run to Him for refuge. Have you?

2.  Perseverance is Your Command

Perseverance: The God-given capacity to endure, abiding in the love of Christ and producing good works.

Isn’t He kind to invite us to a relationship? Isn’t it sad we must be commanded to draw near and hold fast?
Do you see the commands found in Heb. 10:22 & 23 that are our duty? Do you draw near to Christ [Heb. 7:25; 10:1; 11:6]? How do we draw near according to Jn. 15:5,6 & Rev. 2:2,3? What are the actions Jesus called for from the disciples in Matt. 11:28 and Jn. 6:37? How is this different from the person who “shows up Sunday and does the God thing”? Kurt used the example of Cinnabon’s attraction to illustrate what our attraction to Christ should be. Is that attraction to Christ true of you?
We are also to hold fast. Why is it important to see that we don’t hold fast to Christ but rather to our confidence? How do we do that as found in Heb. 10:24-25? Since Lifegroups is a way to persevere, what is the level of your commitment to Lifegroups? How are you stimulating others to love and good works? Do you have someone you are discipling? We are all called to carry kingdom responsibilities with joy.

3.  Assurance is Our Blessing

Assurance:  The comfort and confidence that the Holy Spirit deposits in the obedient believer.

It is in Rom. 8:16-17 that we saw the promise of our assurance. Who does that work in us? What are the ways that we can nullify the Spirit’s work in us? [see 1Thes. 5:19; Eph. 4:29] What does the filling work of the Holy Spirit do for every believer [see Eph. 5:18]?

Application

When you go to a restaurant and receive good service you feel led to honor that service with a good tip. In the same way, when we are saved and live in obedient service for the Lord, He deposits through His Spirit the assurance that our relationship is always secure. Individually we need to “take hold of our hope” Heb. 6:18. What is our corporate church family responsibility according to Col. 2:2,3? What should “being knit together in love” look like? I hope you said Lifegroups!

Pastor Kurt mentioned a document on our website that can help you study on your own the security of the believer. It can be found here: http://www.hickoryharvest.org/Content/10441/255398.pdf

Pray that we would be certain about the condition of our faith and relationship with Christ and that we would have the courage to share that with others. Pray that those with fear or confusion about their eternal security would have the courage to ask for help. Pray that we would all take time to build our own faith so as to make it known to others. Pray for an opportunity to share the hope that is within you with a person who is lost.
 Pray for Kurtis and Maria to feel loved and welcomed here as they arrive at the end of the month to serve on the Harvest team.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 07/10/11:
1^st hour –Cotton
2^nd hour – Starnes

1. v. 13-16 Promise: God’s Guaranteed Oath

If we want to understand the Bible accurately we must be prepared to examine the details in the text, identify how that text fits into the context around it and then look to other references that give us a fuller understanding. We did that by looking at the passages that talk about the Abrahamic Covenant. [Rom. 4:1-5; Gen. 12:1-4; 15:6, 9-11, 17; 22:9-19] How does studying this covenant deepen your faith? What made Abraham right in his relationship with God? God used the covenant of promise or agreement that was familiar to Abraham to communicate a unique truth to us. Usually, two men would walk through the animal carcasses to establish a promise to each other. Here, God alone walked through the carcasses. God was communicating a one-sided unilateral promise. Why was that significant? How does that relate to the security of our salvation? Who is the one who keeps His promise to save? Do you have any doubts about the security of your salvation? What causes our doubts?

2.  v. 17-18 Truth: God’s Unchangeable Character

Why is the unchangeable character of God so important for the security of the believer? Do any of God’s plans get changed? Consider what Rom. 8:28-29; 11:29; Jms. 1:17 have to say. In the Hebrews study text the writer identifies two unchangeable things. What are they? Why are they so important to our security?
Psalm 27 speaks of the safety of the tabernacle. How does Jn. 1:14 and the phrase “dwelt among us” relate to Psa. 27:5? In what way is Christ a refuge for us?[see 1 Tim. 1:1; Heb. 13:5]

3.  v. 19-20 Hope: Christ’s Our Anchor

Pastor Kurt suggested that in a tug-of-war the “anchor person” is vital. Why is that? To win, the anchor must dig in and never give up. How does that image relate to Jesus as the anchor of our soul? What is it that causes us to look away from Jesus as the anchor of our souls? Where should we look to gain greater confidence in Him?

The Problem Passage Gal. 5:4

Gal. 5:1-5 offers  the context to understand accurately the troubling phrase “fallen from grace”. This passage asks how did turning back and trying to live by the Law disqualify one from the grace of God?

 If we try to achieve our own righteousness we will be motivated ultimately by pride. How is that so? What does Rom. 11:6 say that eliminates any argument for works in our salvation?

Application

Many people hover around the church for reasons other than to live in community and serve out of the motivation of God’s grace. When one “leaves the faith” and departs from the church they are reflecting the description of church people that are found in 1Jn. 2:19. What do they look like at the start? Did they ever have the faith? How does that relate to the wheat and tares that Jesus predicted in the gospels? Should we be surprised when this occurs? Bogus belief, forged faith and sham spirituality are a danger to the church. What does Acts 20:28-29 tell us to do in light of this danger?

True believers persevere. The best way to show the security of your faith is to get at it, to relentlessly put forth effort for the sake of the gospel no matter what the cost. Are you doing that? Is your contribution to the work major or meager? What will you do about that?

Pray that we would be certain about the condition of our faith and relationship with Christ. Pray that those with fear or confusion about their eternal security would have the courage to ask for help. Pray that we would all take time to build our own faith so as to make it known to others. Pray for an opportunity to share the hope that is within you with a person who is lost.
 Pray for Adam and Shannon Ashoft to feel loved and welcomed here as they arrive this week to serve on the Harvest team.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 06/26/11:
1^st hour –Robb
2^nd hour – S. Sherrill

Going Deeper What can you do to help someone whose faith is insecure and who has not fully trusted their eternal destiny to Christ and His work of salvation? Encourage them to increase their faith in God by getting to know His promises better. Study and understand these verses and share them as you have opportunity with others. The promise of the trustworthiness of God Num. 23:19 John 8:48 Titus 1:2 2 Sam. 7:28 Rom. 3:4 The anchor found in the promises of Heb. 10:11ff

Introduction:   All believers are eternally secure in Christ.  Yet, Pastor Kurt introduced this sermon series listing seven aspects of our salvation in Christ that some also believe are true.  Do you remember what they were?  List them.  Why is it that so many believers have trouble with assurance?  What might this indicate?  What does the Lord provide to help us know we are saved?  Read John 6: 39 – 40. 

1.  God’s Fixed Will.  “This is the will of Him” – What are the promises concerning God’s will in these two verses?  Read Eph. 1: 4 – 5.  What has the Lord done “according to the kind intention of His will”?  What does it mean in Romans 12: 2 that “He is the author and perfecter of faith”?   Read Romans 8: 28 – 30. What is the “unbreakable chain” of God’s plan of salvation for believers?

2.  God’s Loving Gift.  “all that He has given Me” – What did Pastor Kurt say is the great gift God is preparing for His Son?  Read Revelation 19: 6 – 8 for help.  What is the fine linen?  Knowing this, how should we live?  What does I Cor. 6: 10 say?  In our church, what has God provided to help accomplish this?

3.  Christ’s Protective Love.  “I lose nothing” – Since the Lord purchased us with His blood, is there anything He would not do to protect and guard us from being lost?  Read John 17: 12 and 18: 9.  How many has Christ lost?  What does this say about you and your salvation in Christ?

4.  God’s Salvation Demand.  “everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him” – Pastor Kurt said that God commands us to come to Christ.  It is not an invitation or an idea.  Scripture is clear what we must do to respond to His command.  What does it mean to “behold the Son”?  Read John 6: 47, 53 – 56.  What does it mean to believe?

5.   God’s Great Promise.  “will have eternal life” – Eternal life is about quality and quantity of life.  What does John 10: 10 say about this life?  Read John 6: 47 – 51 and John 5: 24.  When do we receive eternal life?  Can there ever be “temporary” eternal life?  Why or why not?

6.  Christ’s Powerful Victory.  “I Myself will raise him up on the last day.” – According to John 6: 40 who is taking responsibility to raise us up?  So, does our eternal security rest in ourselves or in Christ?

Problem Passage.  Read Mark 3: 28 -29, the unforgiveable sin.   What did Pastor Kurt say is “blaspheming the Holy Spirit?  Read John 16: 8.  What are some things that the Holy Spirit does?  Generally, does the world embrace or reject the work of the Holy Spirit?  If your heart is sensitive to the convictions the Spirit brings to your heart what does this indicate?

Introduction:
The story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his failed attempt to lead an expedition to cross the Antarctic continent is a saga of immense difficulty and untold hardship. Shakleton’s men survived through courage and dependence on one another. They faced their crisis and won. What will you do to prepare to face the inevitable crisis that will test your courage? Will you win? With a firm trust in a gracious Savior you can face any storm that comes your way.

The day described in Mk. 4 began in Mark 3:20 when Jesus arrived back at his home and began a full day of ministry. Briefly scan from that passage to our current text and consider, what are some of the stressful aspects of Jesus’ experience up to this point? What does Jesus show about His humanity in this? Why would they have to "take him" to the boat for the voyage?

A. Insecurity v. 35-36
Jesus gave direction to the disciples to begin their voyage. He wanted time alone with them. What did the crisis, alone with Jesus, reveal about their faith? How about you and your crisis?
The disciples’ insecurity arose from what three factors? They were stretched by their circumstance and this revealed their insecure nature. How do faith-stretching critical events work for our benefit? One thing is certain, it reveals our fears. What are your fears? We need to humbly take responsibility for our insecurity and fear. We can then begin to redeem the situation by entrusting the matter to God by faith.

B. Storm v. 37

In the parallel passage in Matt. 8:23-27 we see the same event described. He uses the word "seismic" to identify the level of the storms frightening power. For the person in the trial, the storm seems amplified. What does Jas. 1:2-5 tell us about the trials of our lives and how they can be redeemed?

C. The Blame Game v. 38

Jesus was at perfect rest while all of those around him were frantic. How could that be? The disciples interpreted His calm as not caring. In reality, Jesus is exemplifying rest found in trusting God. See Prov. 3:22-24; 19:23; Psa. 3:5; 4:8. What are the important features in these verses?
The disciples had tendency when troubled of rebuking Jesus [Mk. 5:31; 6:37; 8:4, 32]. It was their way of shifting the blame. How do we, perhaps with more subtlety, do the same thing?

Pastor Kurt highlighted that we blame God for our problem. We do this because we allow what starts out as a physical trial to become, in our hearts, a spiritual trial. This brings us to despair and defeat. What does this reveal about our view of Jesus as our Rock? What does this reveal about the magnitude of our finding Him as a source of refreshment? What does He want to change in you?

To acquire the help you need in a crisis you need access to God through saving faith. Do you have that?

A. Withdraw Control v. 39

The disciples came to the end of themselves. That is what the Lord wants in us as well. It comes down to control. What is the blessing awaiting us when we admit we can’t handle it? What must we do if we want His help? Why don’t we choose Him to come to our rescue?

B. Watch Carefully v. 39

Jesus blessed the men in the boat by speaking and rebuking the storm. How have you experienced God showing up in a crisis where you let His Word speak truth into the moment? How does the authority of God in Christ bring immediate calm when applied to your situation?

C. Worship Christ v. 40-41

The disciples rebuked Jesus, Jesus rebuked the storm and now Jesus rebukes the disciple’s lack of faith. There is good reason for His rebuke. What was the core fear of the disciples that caused them to be beside themselves with fear? Now consider this, they were in a boat with the Savior who would provide eternity with God should they die yet they still missed it. Heb. 2:13-15 helps us be reminded that we are free from this overpowering fear if our faith is in the person of Jesus Christ.

Their fear to the extreme took them to the Person that could solve their dilemma. Who is that Person?

We often get caught up in the why? of our crisis and that won’t help us. We may move through the what? of our crisis and that may cause us to think. It is when we ask Who? in our crisis that we are introduced to the provision of real hope 2Cor. 5:14.

Going Deeper

We need to be building a strong resource to help us face our fears in this life. Verses like Heb. 2:14-15 gives us confidence that we can have freedom from our fear of death. Isa. 26:3 fortifies us with the peace that is at our disposal if we will just trust Him. Dig your own reservoir of refreshing verses that can enrich your faith and overcome your fears by studying these Biblical texts. Observe each passage, understand them with accuracy and apply them diligently today. You never know when you will need them in your life or to assist another in crisis.

Pulpit Curriculum God the Genius Kingdom Grower

Mark 4:26-34

Pastor Kurt shared the simple meaning of this parable about the growing seed. What was that? Why is it important to understand our part and to understand God’s part in the growing of the seed?

Jesus in this passage introduced to His disciples how God intends to build the Kingdom of God. What is the definition of the Kingdom of God? What are some of the specific elements that were identified?

What is the responsibility of the farmer? His responsibility is to simply sow the seed. We are responsible to be the sowers of the seed of the gospel 1Thes. 1:8. Are you about the task? What plans do you have to spread the seed this Easter season?

What does the farmer do after the toil of spreading the seed? He rests. Why does he do that? He can rest because now God begins His amazing work upon the seed. How have you observed the creative genius of God in creation? How have you observed the creative genius of God in the heart of His disciples? As the plant grows and matures the time for the harvest comes.

The reaping of a spiritual soul is called what? Look at Jn.4:35 and follow the training of the disciples and then look at Jn.4:39 and the harvesting activities of the Samaritan woman who met Jesus. Why was she so active in sowing seed? What was the result? What are some reasons we don’t sow the seed or fail to make disciples? One reason that we fail is because we forget that the gospel seed is strong. There are three things we need to do from here on out; toss the seed with all of our might, trust the Savior with all of our heart and take up discipleship with all joy rejoicing in God’s harvest. Will you do that? What is your plan of action?

Pastor Kurt summarized the parable of the mustard seed as this: Something small becomes something great for the protection and care of many. That’s the point of the church. Read Zech. 4:10 and answer, What importance does God place on small beginnings? The tiny mustard seed is a picture for us of how the church needs to grow to become a place of care and protection. As a full service church we want to apply the power of the gospel to every aspect of our lives. We are familiar with the gospel’s saving power. But how does the gospel apply to marriage, to family, to poor health or to finances? How might the gospel give you the courage to take a bold step of faith in one of these areas of your life?

Are you committed to the church? There are many good things that can distract from God’s main thing. How does it happen? Why do some people prefer the distractions or a flimsy church over a church that is aggressively Word and gospel centered? How will difficulty identify the nature of one’s faith in the gospel?

It is very likely that someone who has listened to the message of Sunday has never been born again. Are you born again Jn. 6:37? Who do you know or have relationship with that may not be showing the growth or faith that Christ calls for in the life of His disciples? Will you sow the seed of the gospel with them this week?

OBSERVE – Really see all of the details of what is there INTERPRET – Take care to find the precise meaning APPLY – After grasping the truth bring it home to your own life

What is the promise of the Resurrection [see Jn. 11:24-25]?

Why is the Resurrection such an important truth for our faith?

What did Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead prove beyond a shadow of a doubt?

Why is faith essential to accepting the Resurrection?

What is the significance of the fact that there is no other religion that teaches the Resurrection?

How did Paul align his life with the Resurrection Phil. 3:8-11? What is the implication for us?

1. The Parable – Jesus spoke in parable for a reason. What is the reason for using parables? What are the responses that He observed? In this Parable the Sower, the seed and the soil have clear meaning. What is that? The thing that sets parables apart from allegories or fables is what? Why is that important to understand?
Jesus’ message is to point out to us that people respond differently to the offer of salvation. Some listeners wanted handouts but Jesus was offering help. They had to listen and hear [Isa. 55:1-2; Psa. 18:25,26]. How is that true today as well? What is the quality of the soil of your heart?

2. Four Different Responses to the Gospel

A. Hard heart- non-receptive
Soil that is packed down hard by the roadside never takes seed. It just lays on the surface. This represents a hard hearted person unwilling to receive the gospel. What causes people to be hardened to the gospel? Does the person who is hard to the gospel know it? What can you do for them?

B. Shallow heart- receptive and insincere
Soil that is rocky has good soil on top but no depth for healthy growth. There are immediate signs of life but eventual withering of the weakened plant system. What does this suggest about simply counting decisions for the gospel? What is an important evidence of someone’s faith taking deepened roots? If disciple making is more important than decision counting, what are we to do? Clearly the work is going to be labor and love intensive. What are you doing to labor and love so as to make disciples?

C. Strangled heart- receptive and divided
Soil that is prepared but still retains the roots of thorns and weeds is going to look fine but even after seeding it will produce plants that will be eventually choked out. What is some of the “spiritual kudzu” that chokes out the gospel? Why is it that worries, cares and wealth can stop someone’s spiritual growth? Is this an area where you wrestle?

D. Fertile heart-receptive and fruitful
Soil that is prepared and ready is soil that grows healthy plants. This soil is the only soil that presents to us a believing response. There are three right steps to this healthy growth, to hear, to accept and to bear fruit. Who is responsible for the yield? What is the heart characteristic and the spiritual fruit observed in disciples who receive the seed of God’s Word? Is this observed in you? [Gal. 5:22-23

3. What has Christ Taught Us?

A. God’s Test: What is the quality of your soil? Jesus’ lesson and God’s test calls us all back to this question, what is the nature of the soil of your heart? Does that soil produce fruit? Is the yield of fruit significant?
Isn’t it great to know that the seed is good and that if our heart is prepared and humble the yield will be good too! What should you do if there is no yield?

B. Man’s Task: Are you living out the purpose of your salvation? Why does an orange tree produce oranges? That’s right, to produce seeds and to see more trees grow. Similarly, what is God’s purpose for His disciples? To make more! Are you making more disciples? Are you receptive to taking on God’s task?

Going Deeper The challenge to identify the fruit of hearts that have been receptive to the gospel is very important. We need to acknowledge that God is the ultimate judge but we must be humble fruit inspectors. Investigate what you should observe in yourself and in others as proof of being an authentic disciple. If I am a genuine follower of Christ I will show it in … A Grateful Love for God               Ps. 42:1ff; 73:25; Luke 10:27; Rom. 8:7 A Willing Repentance from Sin      Ps. 32:5; Prov. 28:13; Rom. 7:14ff;                                                    2 Cor. 7:10; 1 John 1:8–10 A Genuine Humility                       Ps. 51:17; Matt. 5:1–12; James 4:6, 9ff A Commitment to God’s Glory:     Ps. 105:3; 115:1; Is. 43:7, 48:10ff.;                                                    Jer. 9:23, 24; 1 Cor. 10:31. A Persistent Prayer life                 Luke 18:1; Eph. 6:18ff.; Phil. 4:6ff.;                                                    1 Tim. 2:1–4; James 5:16–18 A Selfless Love for others            1 John 2:9ff, 3:14; 4:7ff A Separation from the World         1 Cor. 2:12; James 4:4ff.;                                                    1 John 2:15–17, 5:5 Observable Spiritual Growth          Luke 8:15; John 15:1–6; Eph. 4:12–16 Willingly Obedient Living               Matt. 7:21; John 15:14ff.; Rom. 16:26;                                                    1 Pet. 1:2, 22; 1 John 2:3–5 If these are missing, what are you prepared to do about it?

Pray that we would be witnesses of the gospel to people who we meet and that we would make disciples in obedience to the Lord’s command. Pray that our hearts would be knit together, humble and obedient to God’s Word this past Sunday. Pray for an opportunity to share your faith with a person who is lost.
Encourage Lifegroup members to minister well to each other, to identify and encourage new guests to join a Lifegroup and to help promote gospel progress in the lives of our people.  Pray that new people will feel loved and welcomed.

The “Intercessory Prayer” groups during our worship services 04/10/11:
1^st hour –Tate
2^nd hour – Gallegos

The Prize of Unity:  Experiencing God to the Fulllest - John 17: 22
1. Understanding the Glory of God
2. Unity's Treasure: True Wealth in the Unified Church
    Treasure the Glory of God
    The Treasure of the Full Knowledge of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2: 2-3)
3. Unlocking the Treasure of Unity
    The God of righteousness abides with the  obedient church.  (1 John  3:23-24)
    The Savior of love abides with the loving church.  (John 4: 12-13)
    Spiritual gifts reveal God to the church.  (1 Peter 4: 10-11)

Due to technical difficulties beyond our control, the audio for this sermon is not available. 


Mark 3:31-35
1.The Grace of Adoption.
2. The Grace of Allegiance.

Controversy Over the Sabbath
1. The Incident on the Sabbath.
2. The Illustration from David.
3. The Introduction of a New Ending.