Spirit & Life Bible Study

18 Biblical Prayer Types

2012-02-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

1. Prayer of Praise and Adoration:

Psalms 34:1 -

“I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.”

2. Prayer of Penitence:

Acts 8:22 -

“Repent therefore of this thy wickednesse, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiuen thee.”

3. Prayer of Petition:

Mathew 7:7 -

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:”

4. Prayer of Thanksgiving:

Colossians 4:2

“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;”

5. Prayer of Intercession:

Romans 8:27 -

“And he that searcheth the hearts, knoweth what is the minde of the spirit, because he maketh intercession for the Saints, according to the will of God.”

6. Prayer of Supplication:

Eph. 6:18 -

“Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseuerance, and supplication for all Saints,”

7. Prayer of Faith:

James 5:15 -

“And the prayer of Faith shall saue the sicke, and the Lord shall raise him vp: and if hee haue committed sinnes, they shall be forgiuen him.”

8. Prayer of Agreement:

Psalms 133:1 -

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

9. Prayer of Submission:

Luke 22:42 -

“Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.”

10. Prayer of Salvation:

Philippians 1:19 -

“For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,”

11. Prayer of Mercy:

Psalms 66:20 -

“Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.” \

12. Prayer of the Holy Spirit:

Romans 8:26 -

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”

13. Prayer of Peace:

Psalms 122:6 -

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.”

14. Prayer of Ignoring Ignorance:

Luke 23:34 -

“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.”
15. Prayer of Wisdom:

Colossians 1:9 -

“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;”

16. Prayer of Increasing Faith:

Luke 22:32 -

“But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

17. Prayer of Manifestation:

1Samuel 2:1 – (She later conceived a son)

“And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.”

18. Prayer of Comfort

Psalms 119:76 -

“Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.”

The Power of Strategic Prayer - Part 1

2012-01-27T14:30:00.000-08:00

Bible Study Lesson: Back to the Basics in 2012

(Feb. 8^th) Senior Pastor Bryant L. McNeal

1. Elias prayed for rain and more - it came to pass.

James 5:17- 18

“Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. (18.) And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.”

2. Forgiveness is first before praying to an all forgiving God who forgave you.

Mark 11:25

“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

3. Heaven opens when you pray according to God’s will and purpose.

Luke 3:21

“Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, “

4. We must teach prayer because it releases heaven.

Luke 11:1

“And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. “

5. We must always pray in the Spirit watching for all saints regarding due season.

Eph 6:18

“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”

6. To remain built up in our holy faith we must pray in the Holy Ghost.

Jude 1:20

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,”

7. When we pray we must do it daily and with desperation toward God.

Psalms 55:17

“Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.”

8. Praying for leadership is vital for future growth in the Kingdom regarding the 21 century.

2 Thessalonians 1:11

“Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power:”

9. Jesus prays for Peter’s faith to not fail.

Luke 22:32 -

“But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”

“21 Things You don’t Do in God’s House” Part 1 & 2

2012-01-11T12:37:00.000-08:00

Bible Study Lesson: Back to the Basics in 2012

1. You don’t come without being ready to give thanksgiving, praise and worship to God.

Ps. 100:4 –
“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.”

2. You don’t come without your Tithe & Offering.

Neh. 10:38 -
“And the priest the son of Aaron shall be with the Levites, when the Levites take tithes: and the Levites shall bring up the tithe of the tithes unto the house of our God, to the chambers, into the treasure house.” (Also Consider: Matthew 23:23 & Malachi 3:8)

3. You don’t come without your Bible.

Ps. 119:105 –
“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”

4. You don’t come and grieve the Holy Spirit.

Isa. 63:10 -
“But they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit; So He turned Himself against them as an enemy, And He fought against them.”

5. You don’t come Casting Judgment toward another.

Rom. 3:23 -
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”

6. You don’t come with a spirit of Rebellion.

1Sam. 15:23 –
“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He also has rejected you from being king."

7. You don’t come having busy feet, walking throughout service looking at your watch or phone waiting for things to end etc.

Ps. 84:10 -
“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.”

8. You don’t come without a Testimony.

Ps. 78:5 –
“For He established a testimony in Jacob, And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers, That they should make them known to their children;”

9. You don’t come falling asleep in service.

Acts 20:9 -
“And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.”

10. You don’t come, leaving with Unforgiveness.

Mt 6:14 -
"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.”

(Part 2)

11. You don’t come causing division in the church.

Rom. 16:17 –
“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.”

12. You don’t come not yielding to the order of the house being led by the Holy Spirit.

1 Co 14:40 -
“Let all things be done decently and in order.”

13. You don’t come without leaving with an understanding of the scriptures written in the Bible.
Pr 4:7 -
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

14. You don’t come without having a heart of love..

Ga 5:13 –
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.’

15. You don’t come and touch the glory of God under any circumstance.
2 Sam. 6:6-7
“And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it. (7) And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.”

16. You don’t come without seeking a heart of unity in the church.

Ps 133:1 -
“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

17. You don’t come not being in clergicual/leviticual order as a church.

2 Ch 5:12 -
“Also the Levites which were the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, being arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and psalteries and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them an hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets” (Read the remaining verses in this chapter)

18. You don’t come listening to a false prophet.

Mt 7:15 -
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.”

19. You don’t come not knowing your Bible.

2 Tim 2:15
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

20. You don’t come with the “I” “ME” Spirit having a mind and behavior of self/selfish-performance.
Ron 7:18 -
“For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.”

21. You don’t come without being willing to pray.

Luke 18:1 -
“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint”

Humble FAST - Jan. 2012

2012-01-09T14:49:00.000-08:00

Humble Fast – (Ezra 8:21}

Scriptures of Mediation & Focus

* (Ezra 8:21) “Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions.”

* (Hebrews 12:1) “Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”
* (Psalm 51:10) “Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
* (Isaiah 26:3) “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in Thee.”
* (John 4:24) “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

MYLES MUNROE - THE KINGDOM AND THE DANGER OF TRADITION

2012-01-06T11:13:00.001-08:00

Divine Strategy in the Kingdom -- "It's Time To Rebuild"

2012-01-01T09:21:00.000-08:00

Nehemiah 4:6

Click here for the Bible Study Reading:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Nehemiah+4-6&version=ASV

Bishop Noel Jones - You're Expected To Win

2011-12-26T13:29:00.001-08:00

Official Nativity Story Birth of Jesus Christ New Movie

2011-12-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

The Birth of Jesus Christ (For Kids)

Click Here: http://www.topmarks.co.uk/christianity/nativity/index.htm

The Birth of Jesus Christ (For Adults)

Click Here: http://www.twopaths.com/story_birthofjesus.htm

Walking in Wisdom

2011-12-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

Bible Study Scriptures

Ps 14:1 -
The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.

Ps 53:1 -
The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good.

Pr 10:8 -
The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall. (Prating: To talk idly at length with no purpose)

Pr 10:18 -
He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool.

Pr 10:23 -
It is as sport to a fool to do mischief: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.

Pr 11:29 -
He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind: and the fool shall be servant to the wise of heart.

Pr 12:15 -
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Pr 13:16 -
Every prudent man dealeth with knowledge: but a fool layeth open his folly.

Pr 14:16 -
A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.

Pr 15:5 -
A fool despiseth his father's instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.

Pr 17:7 -
Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince.

Pr 17:10 -
A reproof entereth more into a wise man than an hundred stripes into a fool.

Pr 17:21 -
He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.

Pr 3:35 -
The wise shall inherit glory: but shame shall be the promotion of fools.

Pr 6:6 -
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:

Pr 8:33 -
Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

Pr 9:8 -
Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee. (Scorner: One who operates in extreme refusal and contempt)

Pr 9:9 -
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

Pr 10:1 -
The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

Pr 10:5 -
He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.

Pr 10:14 -
Wise men lay up knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.

Pr 11:30 -
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

Pr 12:15 -
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Pr 12:18 -
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.

Pr 13:1 -
A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.

Pr 13:14 -
The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

Pr 13:20 -
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.

Pr 14:1 -
Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

DR. MYLES MUNROE - THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT 1 of 12

2011-12-05T18:29:00.001-08:00

T.D. Jakes 5 People In Your Life

2011-11-29T10:02:00.000-08:00

"Chosen Abraham...Identify LOT" Pt 1 of 4 - Bishop Neil C. Ellis

2011-11-25T19:12:00.001-08:00

Battlefield of the Mind - Joyce Meyer

2011-11-14T09:40:00.001-08:00

Pastor Jackie McCullough - A House Visit

2011-11-07T12:47:00.001-08:00

Bishop T.D. Jakes - Free Your Mind

2011-11-02T12:23:00.001-07:00

Principles of Prayer by Dr. Miles Munroe Part 1 of 6

2011-10-24T18:00:00.001-07:00

Joyce Meyer - Impact of Having a Good Self-Image 1-A

2011-10-18T14:54:00.001-07:00

Pastor Paula White

2011-10-10T17:27:00.001-07:00

Dr. Myles Munroe - A Legacy of Leadership (2)

2011-10-04T08:06:00.001-07:00

Bishop TD Jakes - You Can Recover From a Fall

2011-09-27T14:13:00.001-07:00

Dr. Iona Locke "I Am That I Am"

2011-09-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

It's Time To Let The Children Pray !!! - www.ineedprayer.blogspot.com

2011-09-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video

http://www.ineedprayer.blogspot.com/

I'm Out - Pastor Jackie McCullough

2011-09-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video

Pastor Jackie McCullough - He Wants To Give You Your Own - Pt. 4

2011-08-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video

The Enemy Is After The Man - Bishop T.D. Jakes

2011-08-22T13:26:00.001-07:00

Bible Study Video

The Subject of Divorce (Don't Do It) - Dr. Myles Munroe

2011-08-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

The Subject of Divorce (Don't Do It)

Bible Study Video

Principles of Prayer by Dr. Miles Munroe Part 1 of 6 (Aug. 9th 2011 Post)

2011-08-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video

Bishop T.D. Jakes - FREE YOUR MIND !!!!

2011-08-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video

Don't Let "Pride" Win !!!

2011-07-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

The third definition of “Pride” is: Arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment; haughtiness. The goal of this lesson is to expose and defeat the enemy of pride in the church/ministry. Pride can creep in, damage and destroy a church operating through leadership as well as membership. Lets do a self-check each week to ensure we are not operating in the spirit of pride. We must engage in “Overcoming the Enemy of Pride” even while experiencing, correction, instruction, reproof as well as rebuke as we expand to excellence.

Scripture References from the Book of: Psalms & Proverbs

Ps 10:2 -
The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

Ps 10:4 -
The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.

Ps 31:20 -
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

Ps 36:11 -
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.

Ps 59:12 -
For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.

Ps 73:6 -
Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.

Pr 8:13 -
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Pr 11:2 -
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

Pr 13:10 -
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

Pr 14:3 -
In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

Pr 16:18 -
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Pr 29:23 -
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

Lets overcome the spirit of pride TODAY!

Welcome to The Next Level - Bishop Noel Jones

2011-07-19T09:05:00.000-07:00

Bible Study Video - Welcome to The Next Level

The 7 Keys to Protecting Kingdom Relationships

2011-06-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

POSTED FOR: Tuesday, July 5th 2011

1. Allow the "LOVE of GOD" to prevail in every aspect of your relationship and conversation

2. Always have each others BEST interest at Heart in all meekness and kindness

3. Be honest, open-minded and true to GOD'S WORD toward each other

4. If there is a disagreement: 1. Talk it out, 2. Don't let disagreeing positions cause your relationship to end, and 3. embrace each other with words of comfort and resolution

5. Be fair and friendly in every way regarding your opinion or position of truth regarding the matter

6. Understand that in every great relationship there are disagreements but you can work them out

7. At the end of the day, make sure you go to bed with no wrath nor anger. Be sure to let the words of your month and the mediation of your heart be pleasing unto God

Please read the reference scriptures below:

Matthew 5:23

Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you,...... (Open Your Bible To Find The Conclusion of This Scripture)

Matthew 18:15

Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.

Luke 17:3

Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.

The Power of SEEKING GOD !!!

2011-06-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

POSTED FOR: JUNE 28TH 2011

Ps 9:10
And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

Ps 10:4
The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts.

Ps 14:2
The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.

Ps 22:26
The poor shall eat and be satisfied; Those who seek Him will praise the LORD. Let your heart live forever!

Ps 24:6
This is Jacob, the generation of those who seek Him, Who seek Your face.Selah

Ps 27:4
One thing I have desired of the LORD, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, And to inquire in His temple.

Ps 27:8
When You said, "Seek My face," My heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek."

Ps 34:10
The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing.

Ps 34:14
Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it.

Church Protocol & Etiquette (Part 1 & 2)

2011-06-18T17:52:00.000-07:00

POSTED FOR: Tuesday, June 21st 2011
www.thepowerofleadership.blogspot.com

(Part 1)
Ministerial Etiquette & Protocol

Check Here For Powerpoint Presentation: http://www.apostolicassembliesofchrist.com/pdf/MinisterialE.pdf

(Part 2)
An Exhortation to Church Service Etiquette
Cary Monaco
Editor

Several years ago I attended a sports/activities awards banquet at a high school which featured the women’s volleyball coach at a nearby university as guest speaker. Soon after he began his speaking presentation I became both disgusted and incensed. No, not about what he was saying, but because of the terrible lack of respect and common decency afforded him by many of those in the crowd of about 200 people.

As the poor guy tried to give his speech you could barely hear him over the conversations being conducted at the same time by both students and many adults. This in addition to people constantly coming and going, rattling snack wrappers, cutting up, and other rude and disrespectful behaviors. After about 10 minutes or so of it, much to the horror and embarrassment of my then teenage daughter sitting next to me, I told the people within our vicinity to be quiet and listen.

Such terrible and disrespectful manners amongst those at speaking events, concerts, plays and other public occasions are commonplace today. Of course, this lack of respect demonstrated towards others through bad etiquette has reached into local churches to varying degrees. One of the most sad aspects of the past many decades is that the world has changed the church more than the church has changed the world.

People used to dress in their “Sunday Best” for church out of respect for God, but in a society where it’s acceptable to wear shorts, sweats, t-shirts and tank tops most anywhere that’s quickly falling by the wayside. Also, folks used to exhibit behavior in church services which demonstrated respect for the speakers, singers, congregation, facilities and, most of all, for the Lord. However, in many churches even if the truth is preached those who desire to hear it are too distracted by the rude and irreverent conduct of others to get much out of it.

In many churches today it’s hard to get much out of it through the people coming and going, conversations going on, rattling wrappers, slurping drinks and smacking food. That’s not to mention the rowdy kids who aren’t made to sit up and shut up, the watch alarms, cell phone ring tones, and the invitation-killing sound of dozens of Bible covers being zipped up at the conclusion of sermons.
What’s being allowed to go on in many churches is a travesty. Bad manners in church are a reproach to God, His Word, preachers, and the churches themselves.

I. PROPER CHURCH ETIQUETTE GIVES GOD WHAT HE DESERVES

We’re to respect and glorify God at all times, but most especially in His house. Leviticus 19:30 reads, “Ye shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the Lord.” Here the Bible directs to “reverence” God’s sanctuary. Certainly the application can be made to church services which feature ministry and worship to the Lord as did the Hebrew Tabernacle and Temple.

Psalm 29:2 exhorts us to “Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name” and to “worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.” When people are walking in and out of a church auditorium when it’s time to worship God in song, prayer, teaching and preaching is that giving the Lord the glory due Him? When conversation is going on at such times is God given the glory due Him? When people choose to wear exercise clothes and such to church rather than their “Sunday Best” is the Lord given the glory due Him? When folks are still somewhere in the building drinking coffee and fellowshipping after services have already started is our Savior given the glory due Him?

Yes, the overwhelmingly popular trend in churches is to gratify people’s carnality by making dress ultra-casual, ensuring that plenty of coffee and pastries are available, providing never-ending entertainment for all ages, allowing people to converse and move around as they please, and so on, but any honest reader of the Bible must surely conclude that this new tradition is contrary to the worship of God recorded and instructed in His Holy Word. More and more so the worship of the Lord in churches is being replaced by the traditions of man which revolve around worshipping self.

The “perfect” church of 21st Century America would include “mini” Starbucks and McDonalds in the foyer; the latest Nintendo machines in every Sunday School class; couches and recliners for everyone in the auditorium; vendor-ushers to bring hotdogs, peanuts and ice cold soft drinks throughout services; and a Christian rock group which sounds just like “Black Sabbath” or the “Grateful Dead” except with “spiritual” lyrics.

Such a church would sure to be wildly popular. Indeed, there are already thousands of them which have almost reached the standards of this “perfect church.” However, contrary to popular opinion, the Bible doesn’t teach that churches are to mesh and conform with society. (Romans 12:1,2; I Cor. 6:15-18)

Obviously the Bible directs that we’re not to be conformed to the world, we’re to be transformed from it. People should see a difference from the world when they come to church. They should see a people who are giving the Lord the glory due unto His name. They should see Spirit-filled saints who are honoring and reverencing God rather than a carnal-led congregation devoted to gratifying the flesh and glorifying self.

II. PROPER CHURCH ETIQUETTE GIVES EVERYONE ELSE WHAT THEY DESERVE

Truly, the worst thing about bad church etiquette is that it disrespects God; yet next to this is that it hinders those with spiritual needs. Those who contribute disruptions to church services should well repent and heed the words of Paul who wrote, “…but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.” (Romans 14:13b)

How terribly hurtful and sad when people with whom the Holy Spirit is dealing are distracted due to the bad church etiquette of others. There’s the person who needs to be saved whose focus on the preaching is impaired by people continually conversing and going in and out. There’s the visitor looking for a church who can’t wait to leave because of the continual horseplay of the kids allowed to go on in front of her. There’s the church member who needs the message badly but misses so much through the crackling mint and cough drop wrappers, cell phone noises, beeping watches and other assorted disruptions. And, there’s the person under conviction who believes it must be time to leave when the invitation is preempted by Bible covers being vigorously zipped shut. (Why in the world don’t people have the common sense to wait until services are over before conducting their ceremonial Bible zipping?!)

Can there be any doubt that bad church etiquette is frequently used by the devil’s demons in their attempts to stifle the work of the Holy Spirit during services? How dare God’s people allow themselves to be such willing accomplices of the devil!

Not only does improper church etiquette show disrespect to God, it demonstrates it towards everyone in the congregation.

How disrespectful it is when someone is praying and there are those who are talking, cutting up, crackling wrappers, putting on coats, and the like. How disrespectful it is when someone is singing a special and there’s conversation and moving around. How disrespectful it is to the preacher when there are frequent distractions which rob him of having free course in preaching the Word.

Jesus said, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” With that in mind, we need to conduct ourselves in church as we would desire if doing the praying, singing, teaching or preaching. Can you imagine how upset and frustrated that you’d be if you were in front of an audience trying to tell them something of great importance and there was all kinds of coming and going, conversation, horseplay, drinking, eating, beepers, wrappers and so on while you were trying to speak?!

Well, it’s even worse in church services because the speaker is trying to tell people the most important message of all, how to be saved from an eternal hell.

III. PROPER CHURCH ETIQUETTE ACCOMPLISHES WONDERFUL THINGS

Wonderful things come forth through practicing proper church etiquette. The Lord will be reverenced and honored, receiving the glory due unto His name. The Word of God will have free course. The congregation will have the opportunity to experience the unhindered ministry of the Spirit. Visitors will be drawn to the church. The entire ministry of the church will become more effective for the cause of Christ.

What more motivation does one need in order to repent of bad manners in services and to begin practicing proper church etiquette?!

CONCLUSION: “Twelve Steps Towards Proper Church Etiquette”

Similar to the common sense move on longer car trips, use the restroom just before services.
In order to avoid walking into services late, leave home earlier.

Don’t be somewhere else in the building drinking coffee, fellowshipping, etc. when you should be in church services.

Write notes to yourself so that you can tell all of the enlightening things you have to say after church services rather than during them.

Don’t bring food or drinks into church services.

Turn off watch alarms and cell phones during services.

Don’t expect someone else to make kids whose parents aren’t at church to behave. At least give it a try yourself.

Consider how the way you dress relates to respect or disrespect for God.

Wait until services are dismissed before zipping up your Bible cover.

Don’t walk out of services during the invitation.

If you must have a certain cough drop or candy enclosed in a crackling wrapper, unwrap as many as needed for church and put them in a noise-free container.

Never, ever, be so utterly disrespectful that you clip your fingernails during services!!!

Link: http://www.baptistedifier.com/an_exhortation_to_church_service_etiquette.html

Extra Link: http://www.a-to-z-of-manners-and-etiquette.com/

The Power of Moving Slowly - Fighting the Flesh

2011-06-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

Posted For: Tuesday, June 14th 2011

This Bible Study Lesson, is design to warn believers to be very slow regarding the activity of the flesh. Be slow to anger and wrath. This is the season to do things slowly regarding reacting understanding that it is better to respond in a Godly manner. As young people often say: "Stop Trippin". Read the scripture references below in Psalms and Proverbs.

Ps 103:8 -
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

Ps 145:8 -
The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

Pr 14:29 -
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

Pr 15:18 -
A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife.

Pr 16:32 -
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

THE TEACHING ANOINTING

2011-06-06T09:50:00.000-07:00

POSTED FOR: TUESDAY, JUNE 7TH 2011

This Bible Study Lesson is design to share the power of the "Teaching Anointing". All of us as people of God should be apt to "teach" as you will discover in this scripture outline. Welcome to the "Teaching Anointing".

1 Cor. 4:17 -

For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.

1 Cor. 11:14 -

Doth not even nature itself teach you..............

1 Cor. 14:19 -

Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

1 Timothy 1:3 -

As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

1 Timothy 3:2 -

A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

1 Timothy 4:11 -

These things command and teach.

1 Timothy 6:2 -

And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.

1Timothy 6:3 -

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

2 Timothy 2:2 -

And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Timothy 2:24 -

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

Titus 2:4 -

That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

Heb 5:12 -

For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.

KILL "PRIDE" TODAY !!!!

2011-05-31T11:54:00.000-07:00

This Bible Study Lesson is design to change your life by killing the work of "pride". Pride is the beginning of no success. Kill pride today, and live a better life!

Psalms 10:2 -
The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

Psalms 10:4 -
The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.

Psalms 59:12 -
For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.

Psalms 73:6 -
Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.

Proverbs 8:13 -
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Proverbs 11:2 -
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

Proverbs 13:10 -
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

Proverbs 14:3 -
In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

Proverbs 16:18 -
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Proverbs 29:23 -
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

We Are the Children of the Lord

2011-05-21T14:59:00.000-07:00

POSTED FOR: Tuesday, May 24th 2011

This Bible Study lesson is design to educate that believer regarding their title as a "child" in their walk with God. We are all children in Gods eyes as we grow, develop and serve the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Let the children of the Lord, praise HIM!

(Please read the whole chapter found in "Matthew" to discover the context of each scripture)

Mt 2:18 - In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

Mt 3:9 - And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

Mt 5:9 - Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Mt 5:45 - That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

Mt 7:11 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? .

Mt 9:15 - And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.

Mt 10:21 - And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death.

Mt 11:16 - But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their fellows,

Mt 11:19 - The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.

Mt 12:27 - And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges.

Mt 13:38 -The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;

Mt 15:38 - And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside women and children.

Mt 17:25 - He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?

Mt 17:26 - Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.

Mt 18:3 - And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Mt 19:13 - Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

Defeating the Enemy of Lust

2011-05-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

This Bible Study lesson is designed to reveal the mission of "LUST". You must defeat the spirit of lust everyday of your life. Don't let lust win! You have power through the Holy Spirit to conquer all demonic forces trying to destroy your life. You are the winner, through Jesus Christ!

(Please Read The Full Chapter of Each Scripture)

Matthew 5:28 -
But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Romans 1:27 -
And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

Romans 7:7 -
What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.

1 Cor. 10:6 -
Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

Gal. 5:16 -
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

1 Thess. 4:5 -
Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:

James 1:14 -
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

James 1:15 -
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

James 4:2 -
Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.

2 Peter 1:4 -
Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

2 Peter: 2:10 -
But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.

1 John 2:16 -
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

1 John 2:17 -
And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

The Power of Prevailing Peace

2011-05-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Below you will find a list of scriptures with various different angels of "peace". Notice the challenge of maintaining "peace" in our world today. Let "peace" rule in your life!

Matthew 26:63
"But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God."

Mark 3:4 "And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace."

Mark 4:39
"And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm."

Mark 5:34
"And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague."

Mark 9:34"But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest."

Mark 9:50"Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another."

Mark 10:48
"And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me."

Mark 14:61
"But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?"

Luke 1:79 "To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."

Luke 2:14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

Luke 2:29
"Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word"

Luke 4:35
"And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not."

Luke 7:50 "And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace."

Luke 8:48
"And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace."

Luke 10:5 "And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house."

Luke 10:6 "And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again."

It's Time To Pray (NOW IS THE TIME TO PRAY)

2011-05-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

This Bible Study lesson is design to challenge the believer to pray beyond the norm. We are in intense times right now. God is calling us to "turn up the volume" regarding our focus and passion for prayer. Please read the whole chapter of each scripture to better understand the context and content of prayer mentioned. It's Time To Pray!

Matthew 17:21 -

Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.

Matthew 21:13 -

And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Matthew 21:22 -

And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Mark 9:29 -

And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

Mark 11:17 -

And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Luke 1:13 -

But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

Luke 6:12 -

And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

Luke 19:46 -

Saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves.

Luke 22:45 -

And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,

Acts 1:14 -

These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

Acts 3:1 -

Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.

Acts 6:4 -

But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

Acts 10:31 -

And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God.

Acts 12:5 -

Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Romans 10:1 -

Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

Romans 12:12 -

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

1 Cor. 7:5 -

Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.

The Names of God

2011-03-15T23:58:00.000-07:00

By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Posted For: March 17th & 22nd 2011

Names of God: A Way to Understand His Nature and Character

The Names of God used in the Bible act as a roadmap for learning about the character of God. Since the Bible is God's Word to us, the names He chooses in scripture are meant to reveal His true nature to us.

Advocate - 1 John 2:1

Almighty - Revelation 1:8

Alpha - Revelation 1:8

Amen - Revelation 3:14

Angel of the Lord - Genesis 16:7

Anointed One - Psalm 2:2

Apostle - Hebrews 3:1

Author and Perfecter of our Faith - Hebrews 12:2

Beginning - Revelation 21:6

Bishop of Souls - 1 Peter 2:25

Branch - Zechariah 3:8

Bread of Life - John 6:35,48

Bridegroom - Matthew 9:15

Carpenter - Mark 6:3

Chief Shepherd - 1 Peter 5:4

The Christ - Matthew 1:16

Comforter - Jeremiah 8:18

Consolation of Israel - Luke 2:25

Cornerstone - Ephesians 2:20

Dayspring - Luke 1:78

Day Star - 2 Peter 1:19

Deliverer - Romans 11:26

Desire of Nations - Haggai 2:7

Emmanuel - Matthew 1:23

End - Revelation 21:6

Everlasting Father - Isaiah 9:6

Faithful and True Witness - Revelation 3:14

First Fruits - 1 Corinthians 15:23

Foundation - Isaiah 28:16

Fountain - Zechariah 13:1

Friend of Sinners - Matthew 11:19

Gate for the Sheep - John 10:7

Gift of God - 2 Corinthians 9:15

God - John 1:1

Glory of God - Isaiah 60:1

Good Shepherd - John 10:11

Governor - Matthew 2:6

Great Shepherd - Hebrews 13:20

Guide - Psalm 48:14

Head of the Church - Colossians 1:18

High Priest - Hebrews 3:1

Holy One of Israel - Isaiah 41:14

Horn of Salvation - Luke 1:69

I Am - Exodus 3:14

Jehovah - Psalm 83:18

Jesus - Matthew 1:21

King of Israel - Matthew 27:42

King of Kings - 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16

Lamb of God - John 1:29

Last Adam - 1 Corinthians 15:45

Life - John 11:25

Light of the World - John 8:12; John 9:5

Lion of the Tribe of Judah - Revelation 5:5

Lord of Lords - 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16

Master - Matthew 23:8

Mediator - 1 Timothy 2:5

Messiah - John 1:41

Mighty God - Isaiah 9:6

Morning Star - Revelation 22:16

Nazarene - Matthew 2:23

Omega - Revelation 1:8

Passover Lamb - 1 Corinthians 5:7

Physician - Matthew 9:12

Potentate - 1 Timothy 6:15

Priest - Hebrews 4:15

Prince of Peace - Isaiah 9:6

Prophet - Acts 3:22

Propitiation - I John 2:2

Purifier - Malachi 3:3

Rabbi - John 1:49

Ransom - 1 Timothy 2:6

Redeemer - Isaiah 41:14

Refiner - Malachi 3:2

Refuge - Isaiah 25:4

Resurrection - John 11:25

Righteousness - Jeremiah 23:6

Rock - Deuteronomy 32:4

Root of David - Revelation 22:16

Rose of Sharon - Song of Solomon 2:1

Ruler of God's Creation - Revelation 3:14

Sacrifice - Ephesians 5:2

Savior - 2 Samuel 22:47; Luke 1:47

Second Adam - 1 Corinthians 15:47

Seed of Abraham - Galatians 3:16

Seed of David - 2 Timothy 2:8

Seed of the Woman - Genesis 3:15

Servant - Isaiah 42:1

Shepherd - 1 Peter 2:25

Shiloh - Genesis 49:10

Son of David - Matthew 15:22

Son of God - Luke 1:35

Son of Man - Matthew 18:11

Son of Mary - Mark 6:3

Son of the Most High - Luke 1:32

Stone - Isaiah 28:16

Sun of Righteousness - Malachi 4:2

Teacher - Matthew 26:18

Truth - John 14:6

Way - John 14:6

Wonderful Counselor - Isaiah 9:6

Word - John 1:1

Vine - John 15:1

Our Stronghold - Proverbs18:10

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The name of God is Jehovah - The name of God is Yahweh

The name of God is Elohim - My Creator

The name of God is El Elyon - Most High God (Sovereign Over All)

The name of God is Adonai - My Lord, My Master

The name of God is El Roi - God Who Sees

The name of God is El Shaddai - God Almighty

The name of God is Jehovah Ezer - The LORD our Helper

The name of God is Jehovah Jireh - The LORD Will Provide

The name of God is Jehovah Rapha - The LORD our Healer

The name of God is Jehovah Roi - The Lord is My Shepherd

The name of God is Jehovah Sabaoth - LORD of hosts (of armies)

The name of God is Jehovah Mekeddeshem - LORD Who Sanctifies

The name of God is Jehovah Nissi -The LORD Our Banner

The name of God is Jehovah Rapha - LORD Who Heals

The name of God is Jehovah Shalom - The LORD

The name of God is Jehovah Shammah - The LORD is There

To Learn More: http://ldolphin.org/Names.html

Get Ready For a Breakthrough

2011-03-15T11:43:00.000-07:00

By: Bryant L. McNeal

II KINGS CHAPTER 7:3 -10
________________________________________

Please read the scripture lesson below:

3. “And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?”

 Sitting still in the mist of adversity wont get you no where.

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4. “If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.”

 Moving in the direction of your enemy, to defeat him in the Name of the Lord is greater then retreat. Don’t back down! You are more than a conquer. Faith at times involves taking risks!

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5. “And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there.”

 They went into the enemy’s camp, and the enemy had already fled.

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6. “For the Lord had made the host of the Syrians to hear a noise of chariots, and a noise of horses, even the noise of a great host: and they said one to another, Lo, the king of Israel hath hired against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come upon us.”

 God will dispatch a host of angelic angels to fight your enemy for you and win! Your enemy is really scared of you!

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7. “Wherefore they arose and fled in the twilight, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses (donkeys), even the camp as it was, and fled for their life.”

 It’s time to put the enemy in his place, by putting him on the run.

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8. “And when these lepers came to the uttermost part of the camp, they went into one tent, and did eat and drink, and carried thence silver, and gold, and raiment, and went and hid it; and came again, and entered into another tent, and carried thence also, and went and hid it.”

 You will eat and drink from the labor of your adversary. He will make your enemy your footstool

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9. “Then they said one to another, we do not well: this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace: if we tarry till the morning light, some mischief will come upon us: now therefore come, that we may go and tell the king's household.”

 When God is at work, share it with others to strengthen their faith.

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10. “So they came and called unto the porter of the city: and they told them, saying, We came to the camp of the Syrians, and, behold, there was no man there, neither voice of man, but horses tied, and asses (donkey) tied, and the tents as they were.”

 We are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb, and the word of our testimony.

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The Sound of Praise is equal to the Sound of a Heavenly Angelic Host of Angels preparing the way for God to move on your behalf!

God Is In Control!

The Lifestyle of Wealth - Part 1

2011-03-08T12:44:00.000-08:00

Wealth is more than money but rather it is a lifestyle that God wants us to walk in daily. These scriptures will empower you to walk in the lifestyle of wealth listed below. Welcome to The Lifestyle of Wealth.

* John 10:10 - “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”

Notice how the thief comes to take but God comes to give. Our God is a giving God who has willed and covenanted to give wealth to His people even life and that much more which is eternal

* Luke 10:20 - “Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”

Notice how the spirits of this world are subject to us as believer and is underneath our authority and then also our name is written in heaven which means our name and wealth is both earthly and heavenly having eternal life.

* Matthew 7:16 - “Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?”

Notice that God gives the believer permission to inspect the fruit of a person before engaging, yoking, investing, or socializing with comfort with them without being rude or judgmental but rather that you might be guarded in every area of life.

* Eph. 3:17 - “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love.” Also read: Matthew 5:44 & Luke 6:35

Notice that the Lifestyle of Wealth means also that you must be rooted and ground in love always.
Philippians 2:14 - “Do all things without murmurings and disputings:”

Notice that the power of a wealthy lifestyle is when you don’t open your mouth negatively or complain as a believer because God is hearing and others are watching and satan desires to swift you as wheat.

Continue your path of Lifestyle Wealth in the Kingdom!

The Commonwealth of Israel - A Transition of Wealth

2011-03-01T15:29:00.000-08:00

Eph 2:12 - That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:

Part 1

CHAPTER 1 - THE PROMISES TO ABRAHAM, ISAAC, AND JACOB
THE PROMISES TO ABRAHAM

God first made a national promise in Genesis 12:2, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee and make thy name great..." This promise was made to Abram and is repeated in Genesis 18:18, where he "shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him". This promise is also repeated in Genesis 17:5-6, where God entered into a covenant with Abram and his wife, Sarai, that they would be the parents of a people who would become a multitude or company of nations. To reinforce this promise God changed their names to Abraham and Sarah. Abraham means "father of many nations". The promise reads, "Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham, for a father of many nations have I made thee. And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of thee, and kings shall come out of thee".

MIRACLE REQUIRED

Remember that at this point Sarah was barren, and past child-bearing age. Abraham had one son, but he was born of Sarah's handmaiden Hagar, and his name was called Ishmael. (Genesis 16:15.) However, the promise had said that the parents of the nation were to be Abraham and Sarah, therefore God had to perform a miracle to fulfil the prophecy. Sarah had laughed at the idea, as the thinking of her natural mind assumed that to have a child at her age was impossible. God is not limited by natural thinking, and in due course Sarah conceived and their son, Isaac, was born. Abraham was then one hundred years old. (Genesis 21:2-6.) Already God was using His supernatural power to cause the plan to come to pass.

PROMISE TO ISAAC

The promises God had made to Abraham were repeated to Isaac. Genesis 22:17-18 records that the angel of the Lord gave the following promise to Abraham concerning his son, "That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies. And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice." The descendants of Isaac were to be a great multitude, a huge nation, and to cause a great blessing to come upon the earth. Those familiar with the story will recognise the reference to Abraham's obedience to God in offering his son as a sacrifice on the altar, and God's provision of a lamb as a sacrifice so that Isaac could be spared. There is also a similarity to the sacrifice of Christ in this. No offering man can make is able to cleanse from sin. Only the perfect Lamb of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, could achieve cleansing from sin. The promise said, "and in thy seed", Isaac's descendants. This message of the Gospel was to be taken out so that "all nations of the earth be blessed".

ESAU SELLS BIRTHRIGHT

Isaac married Rebekah (Genesis 25:20). She also was barren, but Isaac sought the Lord and she conceived and bore twins. The Lord said unto her (verse 23), "Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of peoples shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger" The firstborn came out red and was called Esau, and the second was called Jacob (verses 25-26). As young men Esau became a hunter, but Jacob dwelt in tents (verse 27). Because Esau was the elder he was entitled to the birthright promises given to his father Isaac, but he despised the promises and sold his birthright to his brother Jacob for a bowl of pottage (Genesis 25:32-34).

PROMISES TO JACOB

God repeated the promises to Jacob, the third generation. At Bethel this next heir was told one further point: that in the process of forming the "multitude of nations" his descendants would spread over all the earth. "And God Almighty bless thee, and make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, that thou mayest be a multitude of people". (Genesis 28:3.) Then later as he slept he beheld in a dream a ladder stretching to heaven with angels ascending and descending on it. The Lord stood above it and said (verse 14), "And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shall spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south; and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." Note the order of these directions, it is important. The next morning Jacob arose early "and took the stone that he had put for his pillow, and set it up for a pillar and poured oil upon the top of it" (verse 18). Remember this stone, too, it also is important.

JACOB'S NAME CHANGED

In Genesis 35:10-11, the promises to Jacob are further expanded by indicating that from within Jacob's descendants a further independent nation would be formed.
God also changed his name: "Thy name shall not be called any more Jacob, but ISRAEL shall be thy name... and God said unto him... a nation and a company of nations shall be of thee". We are now seeing a substantial list of literal promises which had to be fulfilled through the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob / Israel if God's word is to be believed.

To Be Continued…………… A Transition of Wealth

The Power of Fellowship

2011-02-22T16:19:00.000-08:00

JOSHUA CHAPTER 23:1-13
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Please Read the following scriptures:

1. “And it came to pass a long time after that the LORD had given rest unto Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua waxed old and stricken in age.”

 God will give you rest from your enemies round about you

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2 “And Joshua called for all Israel, and for their elders, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers, and said unto them, I am old and stricken in age:”

 Joshua gives instructions to the servant leaders concerning the Lord and them

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3 “And ye have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto all these nations because of you; for the LORD your God is he that hath fought for you’

 The Lord is committed to fight for you because He loves you, inspite of you

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4 “Behold, I have divided unto you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea westward.

5 And the LORD your God, he shall expel them from before you, and drive them from out of your sight; and ye shall possess their land, as the LORD your God hath promised unto you.”

 This is your year to possess the enemies land for God’s glory

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6 “Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left;

7 That ye come not among these nations, these that remain among you; neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves unto them:”

 Be careful in all things that God receives the Glory and not man

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8 “But cleave unto the LORD your God, as ye have done unto this day.

9 For the LORD hath driven out from before you great nations and strong: but as for you, no man hath been able to stand before you unto this day.”

 The devil don’t like you because GOD is for you! So cleave to the Lord!

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10 “One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the LORD your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you.

11 Take good heed therefore unto yourselves, that ye love the LORD your God.

12 Else if ye do in any wise go back, and cleave unto the remnant of these nations, even these that remain among you, and shall make marriages with them, and go in unto them, and they to you:

13 Know for a certainty that the LORD your God will no more drive out any of these nations from before you; but they shall be snares and traps unto you, and scourges in your sides, and thorns in your eyes, until ye perish from off this good land which the LORD your God hath given you.”

 God has been faithful to you so be faithful to Him and noone else!

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God has a plan, with your name on it!
By: Pastor, Bryant McNeal

25 Keys Toward Perfect Living - Eph. 3:20

2011-02-15T13:27:00.000-08:00

By: Pastor Bryant McNeal

1. Pray first, before you make a decision

2. Self-control is a blessing to have at every level of operation in life
3. Never jump to conclusions
4. Remember there’s two sides, to every story
5. Never let your enemy, see you upset
6. Be Humble at all times
7. Don’t let go of your Faith, during difficult times
8. In all things give Thanks unto God
9. If you don’t want people to know, don’t tell them
10. Don’t become what you despise
11. Love is Unconditional
12. Trust God always!
13. In every tragedy, you can find Destiny
14. If you fail, You fail because you stopped trying
15. Knowing when to say: NO
16. Knowing when to say: Yes
17. Knowing when to say: NOTHING AT ALL
18. Don’t let your emotions, control your life
19. Judge not, that ye not be judged
20. The Ministry of Forgiveness: is for every believer to embrace!
21. Stop crying, pick your head up, and move ahead, beyond and above!
22. Winners are determined not by the result of the battle but by the outcome (the positive change) of the person
23. How you view life will determine how you live life
24. People either come into your life to give or to take, just make sure, you have more givers surrounding you this year
25. Do what you say, you're going to do!

The Wealth Mentality

2011-02-02T16:18:00.000-08:00

The Word of God is urging us to have a mentality of wealth in the earth realm that is released from the heavenly realm. Welcome to The Wealth Mentality.

Deut. 8:18 -
But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.

Ruth 2:1 -
And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.

1Sam. 2:32 -
And thou shalt see an enemy in my habitation, in all the wealth which God shall give Israel: and there shall not be an old man in thine house for ever.

2Ch. 1:11 -
And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:

2Ch 1:12 -
Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.

Es. 10:3 -
For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking

Ps 112:3 -
Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

Pr 13:22 -
A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.

Building the Church to Be Unified in 2011

2011-02-01T13:52:00.000-08:00

By: Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

GENESIS CHAPTER 11:1-9
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Read the scripture lesson found below:

1 And the whole earth was of one language, and of one speech.
> It’s time to be one language and one speech as a church.
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2 And it came to pass, as they journeyed from the east, that they found a plain in the land of Shinar; and they dwelt there.
> When things are as one people, come together and the vision can be implemented and executed.
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3 And they said one to another, Go to, let us make brick, and burn them throughly. And they had brick for stone, and slime had they for morter.
> They worked together to make the resources to build the tower.
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4 And they said, Go to, let us build us a city and a tower, whose top may reach unto heaven; and let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.
> Working together, to leave a legacy.
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5 And the LORD came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded> It’s time to get the Lord’s attention. Things can only happen with unity.
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6 And the LORD said, Behold, the people is one, and they have all one language; and this they begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.
> The Lord should be able to notice our oneness. We can do ANYTHING when we are one
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7 Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech.
> Unity causes God to respond in this context in an unexpected way, but in this dispensation of time He responses with gifts due to unity.
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8 So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city.
> The strategy of the Lord regarding scattering them is to populate the earth with more like minded people to build the world.
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9 Therefore is the name of it called Babel; because the LORD did there confound the language of all the earth: and from thence did the LORD scatter them abroad upon the face of all the earth.
> This place was named according to the works of the Lord.
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Defeating the Spirit of Murmuring

2011-01-26T00:28:00.000-08:00

By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

The spirit of murmuring and complaining has invaded the church. We must work, pray and strive toward unity and relationship as we build the Kingdom of God in the earth. Murmuring and complaining is a cancer to the work of ministry. “Cut It Out” and follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It’s not about you, it’s about Jesus!

Scripture Reference:

Philippians 2:14 – (Don’t Murmur nor Complain)
“Do all things without murmurings and questionings:”

John 7:12 – (Beware of People who Murmur and Complain)
“And there was much murmuring among the multitudes concerning him: some said, He is a good man; others said, Not so, but he leadeth the multitude astray.”

John 7:32 - (Public Murmuring Can Cause Trouble Down the Road)
“The Pharisees heard the multitude murmuring these things concerning him; and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to take him.”

Acts 6:1 - (Overcome Murmuring By Working Together)
“Now in these days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.”

1Peter 4:9 - (Service in the Kingdom must be done without Murmuring)
“using hospitality one to another without murmuring:”

Developing a Mind of Christ

2011-01-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

Discovering the Power of a Godly Mind to overcome the battles of this world to give God the glory!

Php. 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way we think)

”Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Eph. 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)

”Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,”

1 Peter 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even your trials that come)

”Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:”

Luke 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)

”Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.”

John16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is CORRECT)

”They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.”

Php. 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)

”Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:”

Roman 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up! You may not be all that you think)

”For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.”

Acts 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)

”Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.”

Jeremiah 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself, like He sees you)

”For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

Jeremiah 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the - heart of mind)

”The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”

Roman 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)

”And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);”

Roman 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)

”I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.”

Roman 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)

”But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.”

Roman 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)

”For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.”

Servant-Leadership In the Kingdom

2011-01-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

This Bible Study lesson is designed to empower servant-leaders in the Kingdom with scriptural references that will expand them to excellence in ministry.

Reference: Scriptures:

Matthew 20:27 - (A leader or chief in reality is a presidential servant)
“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:”

Matthew 23:11 - (The greatest must be lead-servant)
“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.”

Matthew 24:45 - (Servants must be both faithful and wise for favor to be released)
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?”

Matthew 24:46 - (Servants are not lazy nor workless)
“Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.”

Mark 9:35 - (Last and least is equal to being first)
“And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.”

Mark 10:44 - (A chief is a servant of all)
“And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.”

Luke 14:23 - (Servants are engaged in evangelism)
“And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.”

Luke 19:17 - (A good and faithful servant can become Mayor of the city)
“And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.”

John 12:26 – (A servant must take on the relationship of the cross with their leaders)
“If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.”

Defeating the Enemy of Pride

2011-01-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Jan. 5th 2011
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

The third definition of “Pride” is: Arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment; haughtiness. The goal of this lesson is to expose and defeat the enemy of pride in the church/ministry. Pride can creep in, damage and destroy a church operating through leadership as well as membership. Lets do a self-check each week to ensure we are not operating in the spirit of pride. We must engage in “Overcoming the Enemy of Pride” even while experiencing, correction, instruction, reproof as well as rebuke as we expand to excellence.

Scripture References from the Book of: Psalms & Proverbs

Ps 10:2 -
The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

Ps 10:4 -
The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.

Ps 31:20 -
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

Ps 36:11 -
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.

Ps 59:12 -
For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.

Ps 73:6 -
Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.

Pr 8:13 -
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Pr 11:2 -
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

Pr 13:10 -
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

Pr 14:3 -
In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.

Pr 16:18 -
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Pr 29:23 -
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

Lets overcome the spirit of pride TODAY!

Make Plans to Develop Self-Control and Resist Temptation

2010-12-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

By: Pastor Bryant McNeal

The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways (Proverbs 14:8).
Are you frustrated in your efforts to resist temptation?
It can be frustrating to intensely want to overcome a temptation, and then fail again and again. This can be especially hard if you are a Christian and feel discouraged in your desire to grow in the Lord and overcome sin.
If you sometimes find yourself in this position, it may be because you do not go beyond making good intentions. You may say, "I'll try harder," or, "I have to do something about this." In addition, you may pray for hours. Or you simply may mutter a quick prayer without much thought.
Good intentions and prayer are not enough. Make a plan!

Good intentions and prayer are important in your struggle against sin, but be sure to also make a precise, practical plan about how you will battle the temptations in your life. When you combine prayer, determination and a plan based on God's Word, you will find victory.
The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty (Proverbs 21:5).

An upright man gives thought to his ways (Proverbs 21:29).

Pick one temptation to work on.
Have you ever made a long list of changes you want to make? Most of us have done this and soon have felt overwhelmed by trying to do so much. Start slowly, instead.

Personal application: Write one temptation you want to overcome: __________________________________________

Analyze your temptation/sin patterns!

If you can identify patterns when you sin, you will be able to make a better plan. Even if a temptation seems to come out of nowhere, if you pray and think about it, you usually can identify patterns in your behavior. This can help you understand why you sin and how to be an overcomer.

For example, you may discover that every time you think your spouse mistreats you, you "give yourself permission" to become angry, get drunk, flirt with someone else or engage in a sex sin.
With whom are you are tempted to sin?
Are you more likely to sin when alone or when with certain people? Do you give in to peer pressure?

Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers; let me not eat of their delicacies (Psalm 141:4).

Personal application: Whom I am tempted to sin with: __________________________________________

Where are you tempted?

Where are you usually tempted to commit this sin? At home? At school? On the job? Somewhere else? Stay away from dangerous situations. If you must walk on a dangerous path, be alert.
In the paths of the wicked lie thorns and snares, but he who guards his soul stays far from them (Proverbs 22:5).

Personal application: Where I am tempted: __________________________________________

When are you tempted to sin?

Is there a certain time of the day or week when you are more likely to
sin?

Personal application: When I am tempted: __________________________________________

Why are you tempted?

What are your excuses for sinning? Do you justify your sin? Does it seem it "just happens?" Do you realize you are rebelling against God when you sin?

Therefore, he who rejects this instruction does not reject man but God, who gives you his Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 4:8).

Personal application: Why I am tempted—my excuses for sinning: __________________________________________

What are the first steps you might take on the path to sin?

What is your thought process before you sin? What are your first steps?

Personal application: First steps I might take on the path to sin: __________________________________________

Choose Scripture verses to read and memorize.
Identify Bible verses that speak to you personally about holiness and the particular sin you want to overcome. These could be from your personal Bible study, a sermon, or a book such as Defeating Temptation: Biblical Secrets to Self-Control. Keep an eye open for verses that jump out at you.
Once you find some verses, read them regularly. Memorize what you can, but don't feel guilty if you can't memorize them all.
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you (Psalm 119:11).

Meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it (Joshua 1:8).

Personal application: Scripture(s) I will meditate on to strengthen me: __________________________________________

List preventive actions to overcome temptation.
Personal application: Steps I will take in my daily life to avoid

dangerous situations: __________________________________________

Write how you will resist when tempted.
Don't play around with sin. When tempted, flee!
Therefore, my dear friends, flee from idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14).
Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue Righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22).

Personal application: Steps I will take to resist sinning if I am tempted: __________________________________________

God teaches us the “Power of Tithing” through the Mystery of Melchizedek

2010-11-18T08:55:00.000-08:00

Bible Mystery Series
By: Pastor Bryant McNeal

Few mysteries of the Bible have been as intriguing as the mystery of the identity of Melchizedek.
Who is he (Melchizedek)? Some have speculated that Melchizedek is Yeshua (Jesus), or the archangel Michael, or Shem the son of Noah, or just an ordinary human, or even another divine being as a type of Christ? There is little said about him in the Bible, but we are given several clues.
The first time he is mentioned is in Genesis 14 (Please Read). Abraham had just returned from his defeat of king Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him; and having rescued his nephew Lot and his possessions, he met with the king of Shalem in the King's Valley (the valley of Shaveh). Here is the account:
And Melchizedek king of Shalem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, "Blessed be Abram of God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand." And he gave him a tenth of all. (Genesis 14:18-20)

Who was this Melchizedek, whom Abraham honored and acknowledged; to whom Abraham gave a tithe of all he had gained in battle?
Then he is mentioned again in Psalm 110, which is clearly speaking of the Messiah (Yeshua?) that will come to reign on the earth; and that this Messiah will judge the nations on the day of the Lord.

The Lord has sworn and will not change His mind, "Thou art a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek." (Psalm 110:4)
Why is the priesthood of Melchizedek special and why does it last forever?
In the New Testament, the entire 7th chapter of the book of Hebrews is devoted to the priesthood of Yeshua, and to the Melchizedek connection. There are some very interesting details in Hebrews 7, which clue us into who Melchizedek was, and together with this matrix, I believe this mystery has been solved. Melchizedek is Yeshua! He is the second in the trinity, the righteousness of Yahweh, which is Yeshua. Here are some of the basics:

If you look at his name or title, Melchizedek (Melkhey-Tsedek) is translated as King of Righteousness. Who could be king of righteousness, but Yeshua our Messiah? Melchizedek was the king of Shalem, which is king of peace. Yeshua is known as the prince of peace. Who could be king of peace over Yeshua? No one! Melchizedek was without father or mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life. Who could this be said of, other than God himself? No one! Melchizedek has an indestructible life and abides a priest perpetually. No human could fit this bill. And could there be two who abide as a priest to God forever (a man and also Yeshua)? It was also said that Melchizedek was made in the image or likeness of the Son of God. This could be taken as the image of the son of God (the second in the trinity) or as the image of the begotten son of God, when the Lord took on a fleshly body. But they are one and the same.

8 Levels of Life Style Praise & Worship both Inwardly and Outwardly

2010-10-19T13:13:00.000-07:00

Teacher: Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, Oct. 20th 2010

The Hebrew has eight words or levels of praise and worship, each one is distinctive and yet complimentary of the other. For study purposes I want to put them in alphabetical order; Barak, Halal , Shabach, Tehillah, Towdah, Yadah, Karar and Zamar.

Let us now take our time to explore further. Let us begin with the word BARAK.

Barak

The word Barak means to kneel or bow and bless God, to give reverence to God as an act of adoration. It is done with an attitude of anticipation. Throughout the Old Testament this word is continually used. Thoughts on the word 'bless' bring to mind all God through His Son Jesus Christ has done for us in the past and what He is doing presently. However, have we ever stopped to wonder how we can bless God? David in psalm 103: 1-2 tells us how, when he says: 'bless the Lord, o my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name...." . [Some bible translations use the word praise.] David continues on, by recalling and distinguishing all God has done. “Barak” praise can also be used as a form of prayer, as the word suggests kneeling and blessing God in worship or devotion. The song "father, we love you, we praise you, we adore you" is an expression of “Barak praise”. Scriptures to study are: Ps. 72:9 and Ps. 95.6.

Halal

Halal means to be boastful, excited and enjoying the greatness and goodness of God. It is the root word for hallelujah. While in this mode you are celebrating God in very much the same way you do when your local ‘soccer team’ or favourite contestant wins. It’s amazing how much energy goes into this display. Well, ‘halal’ is the way Christians should celebrate God’s goodness every day. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 104 -106 are good illustrations of this, 2 Chron. 20:19-21-21, Psalm 22:22-26, 111:1-3.

Shabach

This word Shaback is best illustrated in Psalm 117:1; 'o praise the lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.' As it is used here it means to speak highly of, to address in a loud tone, to command triumph, glory and to shout. This category of praise is also pictured in psalm 63:4. Terry Law in his book "the power of praise and worship" says this type of praise "makes the devil shut up". Scriptures to study are: Psalms 47:1, 63:3-4, 32:11, 65:13, 117:1, 35:27, 145:4, 147:12, 132:9.

Tehillah

Tehillah relates to singing and for all intents and purposes means singing our halals. Tehillah is portrayed in psalm 22:3 states that God dwells in the praises of Israel . [Most refer to it as “his people”.] It refers to a special kind of singing that is unrehearsed, unprepared and which today is referred to as "singing in the spirit". This exhibition of praise brings unity into the congregation and allows God to move in miraculous ways. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 34:1, 40:3, 66:2, 100:4, 22:3, 9:14, 33:1, 65:1, 147:1-2, 149:1-2, Isaiah 61:3 and 2 Chronicles 20:22.

Towdah

Towdah translated means 'thanksgiving' and involves the raising of hands in adoration. It suggests an attitude of sacrificial praise. In other words, we give thanks and praise before we receive from the Lord, and/or delivered out of a situation. We rejoice and thank God for his promises. Our praise and thanksgiving become a sacrifice unto the Lord when we are ill or in dire straits. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 50:14, 95:2, Colossians 4:2, 1 Timothy 4:4-5, Isaiah 51:3 and Amos 4:5.

Yadah

Yadah means to worship with extended hands and it signifies a deep surrender to God and a heart that desires to pay tribute to Him. Scriptures for study are: Psalms 100:4, 134:2, 27:1, 28:7, 33:2, 42:5, 44:8, and 141:2.

Zamar

In the Hebrew language there are several musical verbs, but the one that is predominant throughout the book of Psalms is called ‘Zamar’. It demonstrates music in praise to God and advocates that praise and music are similar. In the Old Testament the Hebrews used music as an expression of praise and worship. The popular praise & worship chorus: "let everything that has breath praise the lord" is really Psalm 150 set to music. Scriptures for study are: Psalms are 92:1-3, 81:1-2, and 1 Chronicles 15:16.

Karar

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Karar is the Hebrew word for "dance". We should dance before the Lord like King David did in the Bible. The Bible says according to the following: Ps 149:3 - "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp." Ps 150:4 - "Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs." Ecclesiastes 3:4 - "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance."

While I have shown the meaning of each level or word, it should be noted that in a lot of cases the levels are combined. A mixture of Barak, Karar and Zamar praise can be found in Psalms 98, 95 134 and 145. In Psalm 50 you will find a mix of Towdah and Yadah.

The Power of Followship in the Kingdom

2010-10-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

JOSHUA CHAPTER 23:1-13
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Please Read the following scriptures:

1. “And it came to pass a long time after that the LORD had given rest unto Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua waxed old and stricken in age.”

 God will give you rest from your enemies round about you
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2 “And Joshua called for all Israel, and for their elders, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers, and said unto them, I am old and stricken in age:”

 Joshua gives instructions to the servant leaders concerning the Lord and them
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3 “And ye have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto all these nations because of you; for the LORD your God is he that hath fought for you’

 The Lord is committed to fight for you because He loves you, inspite of you
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4 “Behold, I have divided unto you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea westward.

5 And the LORD your God, he shall expel them from before you, and drive them from out of your sight; and ye shall possess their land, as the LORD your God hath promised unto you.”

 This is your year to possess the enemies land for God’s glory
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6 “Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left;
7 That ye come not among these nations, these that remain among you; neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves unto them:”

 Be careful in all things that God receives the Glory and not man
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8 “But cleave unto the LORD your God, as ye have done unto this day.
9 For the LORD hath driven out from before you great nations and strong: but as for you, no man hath been able to stand before you unto this day.”

 The devil don’t like you because GOD is for you! So cleave to the Lord!
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10 “One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the LORD your God, he it is that fighteth for you, as he hath promised you.
11 Take good heed therefore unto yourselves, that ye love the LORD your God.
12 Else if ye do in any wise go back, and cleave unto the remnant of these nations, even these that remain among you, and shall make marriages with them, and go in unto them, and they to you:
13 Know for a certainty that the LORD your God will no more drive out any of these nations from before you; but they shall be snares and traps unto you, and scourges in your sides, and thorns in your eyes, until ye perish from off this good land which the LORD your God hath given you.”

 God has been faithful to you so be faithful to Him and noone else!
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God has a plan, with your name on it!

By: Pastor, Bryant McNeal

God Is In Control

2010-09-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, Sept. 29th, 2010
By: Bryant L. McNeal

II KINGS CHAPTER 7:3 -10

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Please read the scripture lesson below:

3. “And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?”

 Sitting still in the mist of adversity wont get you no where.

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4. “If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.”

 Moving in the direction of your enemy, to defeat him in the Name of the Lord is greater then retreat. Don’t back down! You are more than a conquer. Faith at times involves taking risks!

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5. “And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there.”

 They went into the enemy’s camp, and the enemy had already fled.

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6. “For the Lord had made the host of the Syrians to hear a noise of chariots, and a noise of horses, even the noise of a great host: and they said one to another, Lo, the king of Israel hath hired against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come upon us.”

 God will dispatch a host of angelic angels to fight your enemy for you and win! Your enemy is really scared of you!

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7. “Wherefore they arose and fled in the twilight, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses (donkeys), even the camp as it was, and fled for their life.”

 It’s time to put the enemy in his place, by putting him on the run.

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8. “And when these lepers came to the uttermost part of the camp, they went into one tent, and did eat and drink, and carried thence silver, and gold, and raiment, and went and hid it; and came again, and entered into another tent, and carried thence also, and went and hid it.”

 You will eat and drink from the labor of your adversary. He will make your enemy your footstool.

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9. “Then they said one to another, we do not well: this day is a day of good tidings, and we hold our peace: if we tarry till the morning light, some mischief will come upon us: now therefore come, that we may go and tell the king's household.”

 When God is at work, share it with others to strengthen their faith.

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10. “So they came and called unto the porter of the city: and they told them, saying, We came to the camp of the Syrians, and, behold, there was no man there, neither voice of man, but horses tied, and asses (donkey) tied, and the tents as they were.”

 We are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb, and the word of our testimony.

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The Sound of Praise is equal to the Sound of a Heavenly Angelic Host of Angels preparing the way for God to move on your behalf!

God Is In Control!

Living Beyond Myself

2010-09-21T18:53:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010
By: Sr. Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

David Get Over Yourself!!!!!!!!!!

II SAMUEL CHAPTER 12

Read Today’s Scripture Lesson Below:
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1 ¶ And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor.
2 The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds:
3 But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
4 And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
5 And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die:
6 And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.
7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;
8 And I gave thee thy master's house, and thy master's wives into thy bosom, and gave thee the house of Israel and of Judah; and if that had been too little, I would moreover have given unto thee such and such things.
9 Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.
10 Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife.

11 Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.
12 For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun.
13 And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
14 Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.
15 ¶ And Nathan departed unto his house. And the LORD struck the child that Uriah's wife bare unto David, and it was very sick.
16 David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth.
17 And the elders of his house arose, and went to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.
18 And it came to pass on the seventh day, that the child died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that the child was dead: for they said, Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not hearken unto our voice: how will he then vex himself, if we tell him that the child is dead?
19 But when David saw that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.
20 Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.

David was so focused on his fleshly desire that he overlooked the care and concern of another man’s family. “Living Beyond Yourself”

Having the “Right Spirit” in Ministry & Life

2010-09-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, Sept. 8th @ 7pm
By: Sr. Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

(Please read the scripture references)

Ps 31:5 -
Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

Ps 32:2 -
Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.

Ps 34:18 -
The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

Ps 51:10 -
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Ps 51:11 -
Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.

Ps 51:12 -
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.

Ps 78:8 -
And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.

Ps 106:33 -
Because they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.

Ps 143:10 -
Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness

Pr 14:29 -
He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.

Pr 16:18 -
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Pr 16:19 -
Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Pr 16:32 -
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

"When you have the Right Spirit, you will always get the Right Results". - Bishop Noel Jones

The Mind of Christ - "Get Your Mind of Jesus"

2010-08-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, Sept. 1st 2010

By: Sr. Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

Discovering the Power of a Godly Mind to overcome the battles of this world to give God the glory!

Php 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way we think)

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Eph 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

1Pe 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even your trials that come)

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

Lu 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)

Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

Joh 16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is CORRECT)

They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

Ro 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up! You may not be all that you think)

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Ac 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)

Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

Jer 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself, like He sees you)

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Jer 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the - heart of mind)

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

Ro 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)

And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);

Ro 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)

I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

Ro 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)

But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Ro 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)

For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Ro 8:7 – (The carnal mind is an enemy to the will of God and has not hope)

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Ro 12:16 - (Operate in Unity of Mind)

Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

Ro 15:6 - (One Mind to Glorify God)

That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Php 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)

Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

22 Keys To Success in Life

2010-08-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Teacher, Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, August 25th 2010 @ 7pm
Scripture Theme: Eph. 3:20

1. Pray first, before you make a decision

2. Never lose, Self-Control

3. Never, jump to conclusions

4. Remember there’s two sides, to every story

5. Never let your enemy, see you upset

6. Be Humble at all times

7. Don’t lose Faith, in difficult times

8. In all things give Thanks unto God

9. If you don’t want people to know, don’t tell them

10. Don’t become, what you despise

11. Love is Unconditional

12. Trust God always!

13. In every tragedy, you can find Destiny

14. If you fail, You fail because you stopped trying

15. Knowing when to say: NO

16. Knowing when to say: Yes

17. Knowing when to say: NOTHING AT ALL

18. Don’t let your emotions, control your life

19. Judge not, that ye not be judged

20. The Ministry of Forgiveness: is for every believer to embrace!

21. Stop crying, pick your head up, and move ahead, beyond and above!

22. Winners are determined not by the result of the battle but by the outcome (the positive change) of the person

Which “tips” out of the 22 listed do you need to work on, and why?

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Overcoming the Spirit of Murmuring in the 21 Century

2010-08-19T13:27:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, August 18th 2010
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

The spirit of murmuring and complaining has invaded the church. We must work, pray and strive toward unity and relationship as we build the Kingdom of God in the earth. Murmuring and complaining is a cancer to the work of ministry. “Cut It Out” and follow the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It’s not about you, it’s about Jesus!

Scripture Reference:

Philippians 2:14 – (Don’t Murmur nor Complain)

“Do all things without murmurings and questionings:”

John 7:12 – (Beware of People who Murmur and Complain)

“And there was much murmuring among the multitudes concerning him: some said, He is a good man; others said, Not so, but he leadeth the multitude astray.”

John 7:32 - (Public Murmuring Can Cause Trouble Down the Road)

“The Pharisees heard the multitude murmuring these things concerning him; and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to take him.”

Acts 6:1 - (Overcome Murmuring By Working Together)

“Now in these days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a murmuring of the Grecian Jews against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.”

1Peter 4:9 - (Service in the Kingdom must be done without Murmuring)

“using hospitality one to another without murmuring:”

Walking In the Blessedness of God

2010-08-05T12:25:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, Aug. 11th 2010
By: Sr. Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

We are blessed when we walk according to Gods Word. The Word of God calls us into the blessed power of God operating in our lives. You are blessed in the city and you are blessed in the field. You are blessed when you wake and you are blessed when you sleep. Blessed are the children of obedience who walk in HIs Word.

Matthew 5:3-12

3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Those who are “poor in spirit” are: humble, kind and lowly regarding having love and concern for others.

4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

- Those who are in “mourning” are individuals who have suffered tragedy and are facing emotional, sociological, and/or physical challenges.

5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

- Those who are “meek” are individuals who operate in tender-hardness and gentleness.

6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

- Those who are “hungry” and “thirsty” for GOD shall be filled with his power, provision, and total prosperity.

7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

- Those are people who are “merciful”: are individuals that give mercy and because of this, they receive mercy from God.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

- Those are people who are “pure in heart”: are individuals who are just, honest, right in nature, and walk in integrity for they shall see/or reign with God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

- Those who are “peacemakers” are: captains for peace, and they are called true children of God.

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

- Those who are “persecuted for righteousness” sake are: people who undergo physical, sociological, and emotional warfare, abuse and many times death for the Kingdom, and they shall inherit eternal life.

> Walk in the Blessedness of God - TODAY!

11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, F8 for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

- Those who are “reviled, persecuted, and undergo their integrity being destroyed”: are commanded to rejoice and be greatly glad because great is your crown and great are your ancestors that endured as well.

Your Sins, Have Already Been Forgiven

2010-08-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, August 4th 2010
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

All of us are born into the state of sin but we don’t have to live in the bondage of sin any longer once we receive Jesus Christ into our hearts to direct, lead and guide our lives. Your sins, have already been forgiven through Christ Jesus our Lord who paid the price at Calvary, he died and was buried and rose on the 3rd day just for you and I!

Please read these scripture references to learn more:

Mt. 18:21 -
Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? (find out the answer by reading more)

Acts 5:31 -
Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

Acts 13:38 -
Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:

Acts 26:18 -
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

Eph. 1:7 -
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

Col. 1:14 -
In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

Walk in your grace - forgiveness!

Overcoming the Enemy of Pride

2010-07-22T09:48:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, July 28th 2010
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

The third definition of “Pride” is: Arrogant or disdainful conduct or treatment; haughtiness. The goal of this lesson is to expose and defeat the enemy of pride in the church/ministry. Pride can creep in, damage and destroy a church operating through leadership as well as membership. Lets do a self-check each week to ensure we are not operating in the spirit of pride. We must engage in “Overcoming the Enemy of Pride” even while experiencing, correction, instruction, reproof as well as rebuke as we expand to excellence.

Scripture References from the Book of: Psalms & Proverbs

Ps 10:2 -
The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

Ps 10:4 -
The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.

Ps 31:20 -
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

Ps 36:11 -
Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.

Ps 59:12 -
For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.

Ps 73:6 -
Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.

Pr 8:13 -
The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

Pr 11:2 -
When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.

Pr 13:10 -
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

Pr 14:3 -
In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.
Pr 16:18 -
Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.

Pr 29:23 -
A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.

Lets overcome the spirit of pride TODAY!

Living Beyond All Odds

2010-07-15T15:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 21st 2010
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

The Life of Jabez – “A Prayer of Success”

1 Chronicles 4:9 -
“And Jabez was more honorable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, because I bare him with sorrow.”

 Jabez’s, mother bared him during a difficult time, because of this; she named him “sorrow” or “Jabez”. Against all odds, he became more honorable than his brothers.

Let’s discover the six definitions of “Honorable”.

1. Deserving or winning honor and respect: led an honorable life.
2. Bringing distinction or recognition: honorable service to one's nation.
3. Possessing and characterized by honor: an honorable person.
4. Consistent with honor or good name: followed the only honorable course of action.
5. Distinguished; illustrious: this honorable gathering of scholars.
6. Attended by marks of recognition and honor: received an honorable burial.
We should live a honorable life before God and people, exemplify Christ in our daily actions.
You can out-live the circumstances of our birth as well as the senselessness of our mistakes by walking according to God’s Word.

1 Chronicles 4:10 -
“And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested. “

 The prayer of Jabez was so great, that it rewrote the journey of his life. God granted his request and he lived a Life beyond all Odds of great success.

God is waiting to hear your next prayer!

Study Your Enemy to Win in Every Circumstance in 2010

2010-07-11T14:22:00.001-07:00

Teacher: Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, July 14 2010

satan is the chief enemy of every believer. We as the Body of Christ must uncover, reveal, and expose the plot and tactics of satan who comes with one mission and that is to kill, still and destroy. We give praise to God who has given us victory over satan as we walk in God’s word. Understand as you read, that the enemy’s name is not even worthy to be capitalized.

1. He will provoke you to do and to make many unwise decisions (I Chronicles 21:1-14)
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2. satan is there when you present yourself to God (Job 1:6)
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3. satan will try to destroy your worship relationship with God (Matthew 4:10)
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4. satan works with backup (Matthew 12:26)
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5. satan lives in the wilderness, where you must go to understand the protection, power, and Spirit of God (Mark 1:13)
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6. satan is a lier (Acts 5:3)
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7. satan is under our feet (Romans 16:20)
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8. satan likes to gain the advantage (II Corinthians 2:11)
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9. satan looks like an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14)
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10. satan will hinder you (I Thess. 2:18)
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11. satan comes to destroy the people of this age (I Timothy 5:15)
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Take a moment to identify and defeat satan in the following areas listed below:

Your Health:
Your Money:
Your Personal Life:
Your Marriage:
Your Children:
Your Job:
Your Mind:
Your Emotions:
Your Goals:
Your Dreams:
Your Church:
Your Mouth:
Your Decisions:
Your Past:
Your Family:

YOU HAVE ALREADY DEFEATED THE ENEMY IN THE WORD OF GOD!

The Power of a Teachable Christian

2010-07-06T19:31:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 7th 2010
Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

I often hear people say: “LORD take me to another level” but I never hear people say: “LORD enlarge me to be more teachable”. Our next level is linked to us having a greater and enlarged teachable spirit to be able to receive instructions, wisdom, correction, and guidance in righteousness. If you join a church and have a pastor or a mentor please go to receive – and with this comes treasures forever more.

Here are scriptures to get you started:

Act 28:31 -
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Romans 2:21 -
Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?

Romans 12:7 -
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

1Cor. 2:13 -
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

1Cor. 4:17 -
For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.

1Cor. 14:19 -
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

Gal. 6:6 -
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

Eph. 4:11 -
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

2 Tim. 1:11 -
Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.

2 Tim. 2:2 -
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2 Tim. 2:24 -
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

2 Tim. 4:3 -
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Col. 1:28 -
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Question & Answer:

1. ”Why” is it difficult for people to be teachable, not looking at the teacher but rather focusing “on the why” regarding the person and their inadequacies?

2. How do a person reach a better mindset regarding being more teachable?

3. Can you be an effective teacher and not be teachable?

4. Does the Kingdom of God need teachable people? Why?

5. Should the pastor be teachable?

6. Should every leader in life be teachable?

7. Is it a fact that, teachable people are normally very humble? Why?

8. Should everyone be yielded to listen and be submitted to receive the doctrine or “teaching” of a “better and more excellent way” outlined by the Bible regarding our life? Why?

9. Do teachable people make great leaders? Why?

* What can you do for the rest of this year, that would cause you to be more teachable in order to grow to another level in God:

The Way to Reconciliation

2010-06-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, June 30th 2010
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

We must learn how to forgive others, regardless of the issues. God forgave us, so we must forgive others. The ministry of reconciliation begins with forgiveness. John 3:16

II Corinthians 5:18-21
“18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”

Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Mattew 18:21-22
“21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”

Mark 11:25
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

Luke 6:37
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:”

II Cor. 2:10
“To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;”

Overcoming the spirit of Anger

2010-06-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, June 23rd 2010 -- Bible Study Outline for the Week
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

This Bible Study lesson is designed to warn you that the spirit of anger is strong in the earth today. Through the power of God’s word and His Holy Spirit you can conquer the spirit of anger. Yield your life to God today! Read the following scripture references to understand more.

Colossians 3:8 – (Anger is a spirit that we must let go of immediately or it will destroy everything meaningful in our lives)

“But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.”
Colossians 3:21 – (We must be careful that we don’t push our children to operate in a spirit of anger or it will later destroy their lives as well)

“Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”

Numbers 22:27 – (Anger will cause you to act without reason, investigation, and discernment so please be very careful because your anger at times can turn on the ones who love you the most) Please read the whole story to understand more!

“And when the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the donkey with a staff.”

Numbers 24:10 – (Be care of people who get anger when they can’t have things their way. It’s not about us but it’s about God) Please read the whole story to understand more!

“And Balak's anger was kindled against Balaam, and he smote his hands together: and Balak said unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed them these three times.”

Esther 1:12 – (You should never make a decision out of anger because it may cost you in the end and could cause others serious hurt)

“But the queen Vashti refused to come at the king's commandment by his chamberlains: therefore was the king very wroth, and his anger burned in him.”

If you have any questions or concerns about this Bible Study Lesson please contact the Senior Pastor at: bmcneal2000@aol.com for further instruction. Thank you and have a blessed and productive day.

Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Spirit & Life World Ministries Church
www.spiritandlifeworldministries.org

Building A Greater Prayer Life in the 21 Century

2010-06-15T17:38:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, June 16th 2010 - Bible Study Outline for the Week
By: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

Matthew 17:21 – (Prayer unto God can release things into your life when nothing else can)
“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”

Matthew 21:13 – (The House of God is called the “House of Prayer”)
“And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.”

Matthew 21:22 – (When we pray, we must believe according to His Will to receive)
“And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”

Luke 6:12 – (It’s time to find a place of prayer and a committed time of prayer)
“And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”

Acts 1:14 – (When we pray, we must pray with “One Accord”)
“These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.”

Acts 3:1 – (Staying committed to a time of prayer can release unexpected miracles)
“Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour.”

Acts 6:4 – (You must “give yourself continually to prayer” in order to grow in God)
“But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.”

Acts 12:5 – (Praying for others, is a must in the Body of Christ, to release God’s Power)
“Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.”

Romans 12:12 – (We must be “continuing instant” in prayer)
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”

If you have any questions or concerns about this Bible Study Lesson please contact the Senior Pastor at: bmcneal2000@aol.com for further instruction. Thank you and have a blessed and productive day.

Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Spirit & Life World Ministries Church
http://www.spiritandlifeworldministries.org/

The Power of a Godly Mind

2010-06-10T13:58:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, June 9th 2010

Discovering the Power of a Godly Mind to overcome the battles of this world to give God the glory!

Php 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way we think)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Eph 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

1Pe 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even the trials that come)
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

Lu 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)
Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

Joh 16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is CORRECT)
They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

Ro 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up! You may not be all that you think)
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Ac 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

Jer 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself, like He sees you)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Jer 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the - heart of mind)
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

Ro 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);

Ro 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

Ro 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Ro 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Ro 8:7 – (The carnal mind is an enemy to the will of God and has not hope)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Ro 12:16 - (Operate in Unity of Mind)
Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

Ro 15:6 - (One Mind to Glorify God)
That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Php 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

22 Scriptural Tips to Help You in Any Circumstance

2010-05-17T17:40:00.000-07:00

Teacher, Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, May 19th 2010 @ 7pm

Scripture Theme: Eph. 3:20

1. Pray first, before you make a decision
2. Never lose, Self-Control
3. Never, jump to conclusions
4. Remember there’s two sides, to every story
5. Never let your enemy, see you upset
6. Be Humble at all times
7. Don’t lose Faith, in difficult times
8. In all things give Thanks unto God
9. If you don’t want people to know, don’t tell them
10. Don’t become, what you despise
11. Love is Unconditional
12. Trust God always!
13. In every tragedy, you can find Destiny
14. If you fail, You fail because you stopped trying
15. Knowing when to say: NO
16. Knowing when to say: Yes
17. Knowing when to say: NOTHING AT ALL
18. Don’t let your emotions, control your life
19. Judge not, that ye not be judged
20. The Ministry of Forgiveness: is for every believer to embrace!
21. Stop crying, pick your head up, and move ahead, beyond and above!
22. Winners are determined not by the result of the battle but by the outcome (the positive change) of the person

Which “tips” out of the 22 listed do you need to work on, and why?
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The 5 Fold Ministry in the Kingdom

2010-05-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

Teacher, Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, May 5th 2010

Ephesians 4:5-13

5. One Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. 7. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity F8 captive, and gave gifts unto men. 9. (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill F9 all things.) 11. And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:

The 5 Fold Ministry in the Kingdom

1. Apostle >2Tim.1:11/2Cor.1:1
2. Prophet >St. John 12:38/Act 3:22
3. Evangelist >2Tim. 4:5/Act.21:8
4. Pastor >Jeremiah 3:15
5. Teacher >1Tim.3:2/2Tim.2:24

• Apostles: are called to be church planters. He or she plants a church and is led to leave a pastor to oversee the flock while continuing to plant health churches founded in the Word of God.
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• Prophets: are called to share divine revelation from God concerning His people/church, to reveal both those things that concern and please God.
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• Evangelists: are called to share the good news of Jesus Christ/the Gospel leading them to salvation and thus toward discipleship.
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• Pastors: are called to nurture and instruct the people/church in the Word of God providing discipleship while training them for ministry concerning the call of their ministry and the purpose of the church.
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• Teachers: are called to share the Word of God in a expository fashion to bring understanding and clarity to the believer growing in the Word of God.
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7 Reasons for the 5 Fold Ministry in the Kingdom (Vers. 12-13)

1. For the perfecting of the saints
2. For the work of the ministry
3. For the edifying of the body of Christ
4. Till we all come in the unity of the faith
5. The knowledge of the Son of God
6. Unto a perfect man
7. Unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ:

Proclaiming the Kingdom

2010-04-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 28th 2010
Teacher: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

“Proclaiming the Kingdom” – is a Bible Study lesson designed to engage the believer, that God is bigger than church work which has its place but rather/in addition - God is most focused on the work of the Kingdom at large. Our job is to expand the church through the power of operating according to Kingdom: principles, purpose, and practice.

These are scriptures that reveal the - Plan of the Kingdom of God:

1. Matthew 4:23 – (The mission of Jesus Christ, should be the mission of every believer and that is to proclaim the Kingdom)
“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.”
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2. Matthew 5:10 – (Our final dwelling place is established according to the Kingdom of God)
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
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3. Matthew 6:10 – (God’s Kingdom moves according to His Will in the earth already operating in Heaven)
“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”
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4. Matthew 6:13 – (The Kingdom of God is governed by His power and glory)
“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen”.
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5. Matthew 6:33 – (We must seek the Kingdom of God and all that dwells within it to operate in the excellence of God)
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you”.
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6. Matthew 7:21 – (The final entry concerning the Kingdom of Heaven)
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven”.
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7. Matthew 12:26 – (The Kingdom of God in the earth, must be untied)
“And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand”?
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8. Matthew 13:19 – (God’s Word is Kingdom and the devil seeks to destroy lives that receive His Word)
“When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side”.
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9. Matthew 13:31 – (The principle, purpose and practice of Kingdom Sowing)
“Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:”
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A Greater Weight of God’s Love

2010-04-20T15:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 21st 2010
Teacher, Sr. Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

“A Greater Weight of God’s Love”: is a Bible Study lesson designed to make known to the believer that there is a greater weight of God’s love beyond our imagination that produces a greater weight of His glory in our lives. You are about to discover the lives of people in the Bible who experienced this awesome and indescribable work of God. Please read the whole story!

John 8:1-11 (A Woman forgiven by Jesus Christ in the Church – His Love knows no End)

1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. 3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, 4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? 6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. 7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. 8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. 9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. 10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.
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Acts 9:1-9 (A Man forgiven by God for killing His Church – His Love is Unconditional)

1 And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, 2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, F17 whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. 3 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: 4 And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 5 And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. 6 And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. 7 And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. 8 And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. 9 And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.
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Joshua 2:1-21 (A Woman forgiven by God because of her act of obedience to help the spy’s – His Love is beyond Comprehension)

1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent F3 out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. 2 And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country. 3 And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country. 4 And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were: 5 And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them. 6 But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof. 7 And the men pursued after them the way to Jordan unto the fords: and as soon as they which pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate.

8 And before they were laid down, she came up unto them upon the roof; 9 And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint F4 because of you. 10 For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. 11 And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath. 12 Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house, and give me a true token: 13 And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. 14 And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee. 15 Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall. 16 And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way. 17 And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear. 18 Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring F5 thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father's household, home unto thee. 19 And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him. 20 And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear. 21 And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.
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The Power of Conflict Resolution

2010-04-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

Wed. April 14th, 2010

The Power of Conflict Resolution: is a bible study lesson design to engage the Christian believer toward tackling wisdom in every situation. It’s time to end disagreements and reach for a Godly resolution utterly crashing conflict.

Bible stories that exemplify this goal: Please Read the whole Story!

1 King 1:33 – (Solomon on his bed of affliction addresses the conflict of his sons regarding who should be king after his death)

“The king also said unto them, Take with you the servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my son to ride upon mine own mule, and bring him down to Gihon:”

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1 King 4:29 – (The Prayer for Wisdom from King Solomon regarding life & leadership embracing the territory of Conflict Resolution)

“And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.”

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1 Samuel 25:3 – (The Conflict of Character Traits in a Marriage & David’s request)

“Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.”
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1 Kings 3:16-28 – (Immediately after King Solomon ask for wisdom from God he is now facing a task of Conflict Resolution)

“Then came there two women, that were harlots, unto the king, and stood before him. 17 And the one woman said, O my lord, I and this woman dwell in one house; and I was delivered of a child with her in the house. 18 And it came to pass the third day after that I was delivered, that this woman was delivered also: and we were together; there was no stranger with us in the house, save we two in the house. 19 And this woman's child died in the night; because she overlaid it. 20 And she arose at midnight, and took my son from beside me, while thine handmaid slept, and laid it in her bosom, and laid her dead child in my bosom. 21 And when I rose in the morning to give my child suck, behold, it was dead: but when I had considered it in the morning, behold, it was not my son, which I did bear. 22 And the other woman said, Nay; but the living is my son, and the dead is thy son. And this said, No; but the dead is thy son, and the living is my son. Thus they spake before the king. 23 Then said the king, The one saith, This is my son that liveth, and thy son is the dead: and the other saith, Nay; but thy son is the dead, and my son is the living. 24 And the king said, Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king. 25 And the king said, Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other. 26 Then spake the woman whose the living child was unto the king, for her bowels yearned upon her son, and she said, O my lord, give her the living child, and in no wise slay it. But the other said, Let it be neither mine nor thine, but divide it. 27 Then the king answered and said, Give her the living child, and in no wise slay it: she is the mother thereof. 28 And all Israel heard of the judgment which the king had judged; and they feared the king: for they saw that the wisdom of God was in him, to do judgment. “
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John 1:17 – (Jesus Christ came to give us grace for our sins that we may have eternal life ending the conflict of sin and resolving our destiny in Him)

“For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.”
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The Seven Last Words of Jesus

2010-03-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, March 31, April 7th & April 14th 2010

THE FIRST WORD
Luke 23:33-34 -- When they came to the place called "The Skull," they nailed Jesus to the cross there, and the two criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Jesus said, "Forgive them, Father! They know not what they do."

THE SECOND WORD
Luke 23:39-43 -- One of the criminals hanging there threw insults at him: "Aren't you the messiah? Save yourself and us!" The other one, however, rebuked him, saying: "Don't you fear God? Here we are all under the same sentence. Ours, however, is only right, for we are getting what we deserve for what we did; but he has done no wrong." And he said to Jesus, "Remember me, Jesus, when you come as King!" Jesus said to him, "I tell you this: Today you will be in Paradise with me."

THE THIRD WORD
John 19:25-27 -- Standing close to Jesus' cross were his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Jesus saw his mother and the disciple he loved standing there; so he said to his mother, "Woman, here is your son." Then he said to the disciple, "Here is your mother." And from that time the disciple took her to live in his home.

THE FOURTH WORD
Mark 15: 33-34 -- And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, "Elo-i, elo-i, lama sabach-thani?" which means, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"

THE FIFTH WORD
John 19:28 -- After this Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the scripture), "I thirst."

THE SIXTH WORD
John 19:29-30 -- A bowl was there, full of cheap wine mixed with vinegar, so a sponge was soaked in it, put on hyssop and lifted up to his lips. When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished."

THE SEVENTH WORD
Luke 23:46 -- Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit!" And having said this he breathed his last.

Identifying satan to Overcome Issues, Habits, and Hang-ups

2010-03-20T16:13:00.000-07:00

Teacher: Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 24 2010

satan is the chief enemy of every believer. We as the Body of Christ must uncover, reveal, and expose the plot and tactics of satan who comes with one mission and that is to kill, still and destroy. We give praise to God who has given us victory over satan as we walk in God’s word. Understand as you read, that the enemy’s name is not even worthy to be capitalized.

1. He will provoke you to do and to make many unwise decisions (I Chronicles 21:1-14)
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2. satan is there when you present yourself to God (Job 1:6)
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3. satan will try to destroy your worship relationship with God (Matthew 4:10)
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4. satan works with backup (Matthew 12:26)
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5. satan lives in the wilderness, where you must go to understand the protection, power, and Spirit of God (Mark 1:13)
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6. satan is a lier (Acts 5:3)
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7. satan is under our feet (Romans 16:20)
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8. satan likes to gain the advantage (II Corinthians 2:11)
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9. satan looks like an angel of light (II Corinthians 11:14)
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10. satan will hinder you (I Thess. 2:18)
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11. satan comes to destroy the people of this age (I Timothy 5:15)
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Take a moment to identify and defeat satan in the following areas listed below:

Your Health:
Your Money:
Your Personal Life:
Your Marriage:
Your Children:
Your Job:
Your Mind:
Your Emotions:
Your Goals:
Your Dreams:
Your Church:
Your Mouth:
Your Decisions:
Your Past:
Your Family:

YOU HAVE ALREADY DEFEATED THE ENEMY IN THE WORD OF GOD!

The 8 Levels of Praise & Worship

2010-03-16T19:28:00.000-07:00

Teacher: Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 17th 2010
The Hebrew has eight words or levels of praise and worship, each one is distinctive and yet complimentary of the other. For study purposes I want to put them in alphabetical order; Barak, Halal , Shabach, Tehillah, Towdah, Yadah, Karar and Zamar.

Let us now take our time to explore further. Let us begin with the word BARAK.

Barak

The word Barak means to kneel or bow and bless God, to give reverence to God as an act of adoration. It is done with an attitude of anticipation. Throughout the Old Testament this word is continually used. Thoughts on the word 'bless' bring to mind all God through His Son Jesus Christ has done for us in the past and what He is doing presently. However, have we ever stopped to wonder how we can bless God? David in psalm 103: 1-2 tells us how, when he says: 'bless the Lord, o my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name...." . [Some bible translations use the word praise.] David continues on, by recalling and distinguishing all God has done. “Barak” praise can also be used as a form of prayer, as the word suggests kneeling and blessing God in worship or devotion. The song "father, we love you, we praise you, we adore you" is an expression of “Barak praise”. Scriptures to study are: Ps. 72:9 and Ps. 95.6.

Halal

Halal means to be boastful, excited and enjoying the greatness and goodness of God. It is the root word for hallelujah. While in this mode you are celebrating God in very much the same way you do when your local ‘soccer team’ or favourite contestant wins. It’s amazing how much energy goes into this display. Well, ‘halal’ is the way Christians should celebrate God’s goodness every day. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 104 -106 are good illustrations of this, 2 Chron. 20:19-21-21, Psalm 22:22-26, 111:1-3.

Shabach

This word Shaback is best illustrated in Psalm 117:1; 'o praise the lord, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.' As it is used here it means to speak highly of, to address in a loud tone, to command triumph, glory and to shout. This category of praise is also pictured in psalm 63:4. Terry Law in his book "the power of praise and worship" says this type of praise "makes the devil shut up". Scriptures to study are: Psalms 47:1, 63:3-4, 32:11, 65:13, 117:1, 35:27, 145:4, 147:12, 132:9.

Tehillah

Tehillah relates to singing and for all intents and purposes means singing our halals. Tehillah is portrayed in psalm 22:3 states that God dwells in the praises of Israel . [Most refer to it as “his people”.] It refers to a special kind of singing that is unrehearsed, unprepared and which today is referred to as "singing in the spirit". This exhibition of praise brings unity into the congregation and allows God to move in miraculous ways. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 34:1, 40:3, 66:2, 100:4, 22:3, 9:14, 33:1, 65:1, 147:1-2, 149:1-2, Isaiah 61:3 and 2 Chronicles 20:22.

Towdah

Towdah translated means 'thanksgiving' and involves the raising of hands in adoration. It suggests an attitude of sacrificial praise. In other words, we give thanks and praise before we receive from the Lord, and/or delivered out of a situation. We rejoice and thank God for his promises. Our praise and thanksgiving become a sacrifice unto the Lord when we are ill or in dire straits. Scriptures to study are: Psalms 50:14, 95:2, Colossians 4:2, 1 Timothy 4:4-5, Isaiah 51:3 and Amos 4:5.

Yadah

Yadah means to worship with extended hands and it signifies a deep surrender to God and a heart that desires to pay tribute to Him. Scriptures for study are: Psalms 100:4, 134:2, 27:1, 28:7, 33:2, 42:5, 44:8, and 141:2.

Zamar

In the Hebrew language there are several musical verbs, but the one that is predominant throughout the book of Psalms is called ‘Zamar’. It demonstrates music in praise to God and advocates that praise and music are similar. In the Old Testament the Hebrews used music as an expression of praise and worship. The popular praise & worship chorus: "let everything that has breath praise the lord" is really Psalm 150 set to music. Scriptures for study are: Psalms are 92:1-3, 81:1-2, and 1 Chronicles 15:16.

Karar

Karar is the Hebrew word for "dance". We should dance before the Lord like King David did in the Bible. The Bible says according to the following: Ps 149:3 - "Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp." Ps 150:4 - "Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs." Ecclesiastes 3:4 - "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance."

While I have shown the meaning of each level or word, it should be noted that in a lot of cases the levels are combined. A mixture of Barak, Karar and Zamar praise can be found in Psalms 98, 95 134 and 145. In Psalm 50 you will find a mix of Towdah and Yadah.

Written by: Ps. Rhema Williams
Edited by: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal

5 Great Bible Covenants

2010-03-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Teacher: Senior Pastor, Bryant L. McNeal
Wednesday, March 10th 2010

In form, a covenant is an agreement between two people and involves promises on the part of each to the other. The concept of a covenant between God and His people is one of the central themes of the Bible. In the Biblical sense, a covenant implies much more than a contract or a simple agreement between two parties. The word for "covenant" in the Old Testament also provides additional insight into the meaning of this important idea. It comes from a Hebrew root word that means "to cut." This explains the strange custom of two people passing through the cut bodies of slain animals after making an agreement (cf. Jer. 34:18). A ceremony such as this always accompanied the making of a covenant in the Old Testament. Sometimes those entering into a covenant shared a meal, such as when Laban and Jacob made their covenant (Gen. 31:54).

Abraham and his children were commanded to be circumcised as a "sign of covenant" between them and God (Gen. 17:10-11).
At Sinai, Moses sprinkled the blood of animals on the altar and upon the people who entered into covenant with God (Exo. 24:3-8).

The Old Testament contains many examples of covenants between people who related to each other as equals. For example, David and Jonathan entered into a covenant because of their love for each other -- this agreement bound each of them to certain responsibilities (1 Sam. 18:3).

The remarkable thing is that God is holy, omniscient, and omnipotent; but He consents to enter into covenant with man, who is feeble, sinful, and flawed. In this article, we want to examine five great covenants of the Bible.

1. God's Covenant With Noah
Centuries before the time of Abraham, God made a covenant with Noah, assuring Noah that He would never again destroy the world by flood (Gen. 9).
Noah lived at a time when the whole earth was filled with violence and corruption -- yet Noah did not allow the evil standards of his day to rob him of fellowship with God. He stood out as the only one who "walked with God" (Gen. 6:9), as was also true of his great-grandfather Enoch (Gen. 5:22). "Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations" (Gen. 6:9).

The Lord singled out Noah from among all his contemporaries and chose him as the man to accomplish a great work.
When God saw the wickedness that prevailed in the world (Gen. 6:5), He told Noah of His intention to destroy the ancient world by a universal flood. God instructed Noah to build an ark (a large barge) in which he and his family would survive the universal deluge. Noah believed God and "according to all that God commanded him, so he did" (Gen. 6:22).

Noah is listed among the heroes of faith. "By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith" (Heb. 11:7).

With steadfast confidence in God, Noah started building the ark. During this time, Noah continued to preach God's judgment and mercy, warning the ungodly of their approaching doom. Peter reminds us of how God "did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, one of eight people, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood on the world of the ungodly" (2 Pet. 2:5).

Noah preached for 120 years, apparently without any converts. At the end of that time, "when ... the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah ... eight souls were saved through water" (1 Pet. 3:20).

People continued in their evil ways and ignored his pleadings and warnings until the flood overtook them. When the ark was ready, Noah entered in with all kinds of animals "and the Lord shut him in" (Gen. 7:16), cut off completely from the rest of mankind.

Noah was grateful to the Lord who had delivered him from the flood. After the flood, he built an altar to God (Gen. 8:20) and made a sacrifice, which was accepted graciously, for in it "the Lord smelled a soothing aroma" (Gen. 8:21).
The Lord promised Noah and his descendants that He would never destroy the world again with a universal flood (Gen. 9:15). The Lord made an everlasting covenant with Noah and his descendants, establishing the rainbow as the sign of His promise (Gen. 9:1-17).

Another part of the covenant involved the sanctity of human life, i.e., that "whoever sheds man's blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man" (Gen. 9:6). Every time we see a rainbow today we are reminded of that agreement -- this covenant has not been done away with. As long as God still sends rainbows after a storm, capital punishment will still be a part of God's law for the human race.

2. God's Covenant With Abraham
In making a covenant with Abraham, God promised to bless his descendants and make them His own special people -- in return, Abraham was to remain faithful to God and to serve as a channel through which God's blessings could flow to the rest of the world (Gen. 12:1-3).

Abraham's story begins with his passage with the rest of his family from Ur of the Chaldeans in ancient southern Babylonia (Gen. 11:31). He and his family moved north along the trade routes of the ancient world and settled in the prosperous trade center of Haran, several hundred miles to the northwest.

While living in Haran, at the age of 75, Abraham received a call from God to go to a strange, unknown land that God would show him. The Lord promised Abraham that He would make him and his descendants a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3). The promise must have seemed unbelievable to Abraham because his wife Sarah was childless (Gen. 11:30-31; 17:15). Abraham obeyed God with no hint of doubt or disbelief.

Abraham took his wife and his nephew, Lot, and went toward the land that God would show him. Abraham moved south along the trade routes from Haran, through Shechem and Bethel, to the land of Canaan. Canaan was a populated area at the time, inhabited by the war-like Canaanites; so, Abraham's belief that God would ultimately give this land to him and his descendants was an act of faith.

The circumstances seemed quite difficult, but Abraham's faith in God's promises allowed him to trust in the Lord. In Genesis 15, the Lord reaffirmed His promise to Abraham. The relationship between God and Abraham should be understood as a covenant relationship -- the most common form of arrangement between individuals in the ancient world. In this case, Abraham agreed to go to the land that God would show him (an act of faith on his part), and God agreed to make Abraham a great nation (Gen. 12:1-3).

In Genesis 15 Abraham became anxious about the promise of a nation being found in his descendants because of his advanced age -- and the Lord then reaffirmed the earlier covenant. A common practice of that time among heirless families was to adopt a slave who would inherit the master's goods. Therefore, because Abraham was childless, he proposed to make a slave, Eliezer of Damascus, his heir (Gen. 15:2). But God rejected this action and challenged Abraham's faith: "'Look now toward heaven, and count the stars if you are able to number them.' And He said to him, 'So shall your descendants be'" (Gen. 15:5).

Abraham's response is the model of believing faith: "And he believed in the Lord, and He accounted it to him for righteousness" (Gen. 15:6). The rest of Genesis 15 consists of a ceremony between Abraham and God that was commonly used in the ancient world to formalize a covenant (Gen. 15:7-21). God repeated this covenant to Abraham' son, Isaac (Gen. 17:19). Stephen summarized the story in the book of Acts 7:1-8.

3. The Mosaic Covenant
The Israelites moved to Egypt during the time of Joseph. A new Pharaoh came upon the scene and turned the Israelites into common slaves. The people cried out to the God of their forefathers. "So God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob" (Exo. 2:24). After a series of ten plagues upon the land of Egypt, God brought the Israelites out "of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand" (Exo. 32:11).

Three months after leaving the land of Egypt, the children of Israel camped at the base of Mount Sinai (Exo. 19:1). God promised to make a covenant with the Israelites (Exo. 19:3-6). Before they even knew the conditions of the contract, the people agreed to abide by whatever God said (Exo. 19:8).

This covenant was between God and the people of Israel -- you and I are not a party in this contract (and never have been). The Ten Commandments are the foundation of the covenant, but they are not the entirety of it.

After giving the first ten commands, the people asked the Lord to speak no more (Exo. 20:18-20). Moses then drew near to the presence of God to hear the rest of the covenant (Exo. 20:21). After receiving the Law, Moses spoke the words of the covenant to all of the people, and the people agreed to obey (Exo. 24:4).

Moses then wrote the conditions of the covenant down, offered sacrifices to God, and then sprinkled both the book and the people with blood to seal the covenant (Exo. 24:8).

This covenant between God and the people of Israel was temporary -- God promised a day when He would make a new covenant, not only with Israel but also with all mankind. "Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah -- not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day that I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, My covenant which they broke, though I was a husband to them, says the Lord. But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My law in their minds, and write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people" (Jer. 31:31-34).

4. God's Covenant With David
Another covenant was between God and King David, in which David and his descendants were established as the royal heirs to the throne of the nation of Israel (2 Sam. 7:12-13).

This covenant agreement reached its fulfillment when Jesus, a descendant of the line of David, was born in Bethlehem. The gospel of Matthew starts off by showing Christ was "the Son of David" (Matt. 1:1), and thus He had the right to rule over God's people. Peter preached that Jesus Christ was a fulfillment of God's promise to David (Acts 2:29-36).

5. The Covenant Of Christ
The New Testament makes a clear distinction between the covenants of the Mosaic Law and the covenant of Promise. The apostle Paul spoke of these "two covenants," one originating "from Mount Sinai," the other from "the Jerusalem above" (Gal. 4:24-26). Paul also argued that the covenant established at Mount Sinai was a "ministry of death" and "condemnation" (2 Cor. 3:7, 9).

The death of Christ ushered in the new covenant under which we are justified by God's grace and mercy -- it is now possible to have the true forgiveness of sins. Jesus Himself is the Mediator of this better covenant between God and man (Heb. 9:15). Jesus' sacrificial death served as the oath, or pledge, which God made to us to seal this new covenant.

The "new covenant" is the new agreement God has made with mankind, based on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The concept of a new covenant originated with the promise of Jeremiah that God would accomplish for His people what the old covenant had failed to do (Jer. 31:31-34; Heb. 11:7-13). Under this new covenant, God would write His Law on human hearts.

When Jesus ate the Passover meal at the Last Supper with His disciples, He spoke of the cup and said, "this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matt. 26:28). Luke's account refers to this cup as symbolizing "the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you" (Luke 22:20).
When Paul recited the account he had received concerning the Last Supper, he quoted these words of Jesus about the cup as "the new covenant in My blood" (1 Cor. 11:25).
The Epistle to the Hebrews gives the new covenant more attention than any other book in the New Testament. It quotes the entire passage from Jeremiah 31:31-34 (Heb. 8:8-12). Jesus is referred to by the writer of Hebrews as "the Mediator of the new covenant" (Heb. 9:15; 12:24). The new covenant, a "better covenant ... established on better promises" (Heb. 8:6), rests directly on the sacrificial work of Christ.
The new covenant accomplished what the old could not, i.e., the removal of sin and cleansing of the conscience (Heb. 10:2, 22). The work of Jesus Christ on the cross thus makes the old covenant "obsolete" (Heb. 8:13) and fulfills the promise of the prophet Jeremiah.

Conclusion
Unlike the Mosaic covenant, the new covenant of Jesus Christ is intended for all mankind -- regardless of race. In the Great Commission Jesus sent His apostles into the entire world so they could tell the story of the cross (Luke 24:46-47; Matt. 28:18-20). The gospel call extends to every man and woman today!

Bible Study Outline By: David Padfield

7 Churches of Asia Minor

2010-03-04T10:51:00.000-08:00

(Book of Revelation)

EPHESUS: THE APOSTOLIC (POWERFUL) CHURCH
"Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God." (Revelation 2:1-7)
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SMYRNA - THE SUFFERING CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt
of the second death" (Revelation 2:8-11)
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PERGAMOS - THE COMPROMISED CHURCH
“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges; I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth. But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate. Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I
give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it" (Revelation 2:12-17)
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THYATIRA - THE CHURCH SETTLED IN SIN
“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first. Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to
your works. But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. And I will give him the morning star. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” (Revelation 2:18-29)
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SARDIS - THE DEAD CHURCH
"And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:1-6)
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PHILADELPHIA - THE FUNDAMENTAL CHURCH
"And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name. He that hath an ear, let
him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:7-13)
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LAODICEA - THE CHURCH CHRIST SPEWS OUT
"And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit
saith unto the churches" (Revelation 3:14-22)
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I have a question:
Which Church are you?

Your Answer:_________________________

Paul Anointed to Publicly Rebuking Demonic Compliment & keep Godly Kingdom Integrity

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Acts Chapter 16

“Paul Anointed to Publicly Rebuking Demonic Compliment & keep Godly Kingdom Integrity”

Please read & fill in the blanks: Acts 16:16-21

The Excellence of Discerning your Environment both spiritual and natural!

Verse: 16 And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:

17 The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the _______ of the _______ ______ ______, which shew unto us the way of salvation. 18 And this
did she ______ _______. But Paul, being grieved, turned and _______ to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to _____ ______ of her. And he _____
_____ the same hour. 19 And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the
rulers, 20 And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly _______ ______ _______, 21 And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.
Notice:
Jesus treated cases of demonic possession as realities. He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"

Acts 19:15 – Demons should know your name and should see you as a threat!
“And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?”

Mark 3:15 – You must have the Power of God backing you – to cast out demons! “And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast of devils”
Read: Matt 12:22-37 / Mark 3:19-30 / Luke 11:14-20 More

Information of Demons:

Demon-possessed

Demon – Possessed: "to be under the power of a demon," rendered "demon possessed" or "demoniac").

A term frequently used in the NT of one under the influence of a demon. The verb "to be demonized" occurs, in one form or another, seven times in Matthew, four times in Mark, once in Luke, and once in John.

He is not only described as "rebuking," "commanding," and "casting out" the unclean spirits, but His direct addresses to them are recorded. In (Mark 5:8-12) and (Matt. 8:28-32) Jesus addresses the demons who are called "Legion," commanding them to leave and finally granting them permission to enter a nearby herd of swine. Again , He directly addressed the unclean spirit: "Be quiet, and come out of him!"
Clearly demonism was regarded by our Lord as reality.

Satan

Satan: The chief of fallen spirits. Satan is also called the devil, the dragon, the evil one, the angel of the abyss, the ruler of this world, the prince of the power of the air, the god of this world, Apollyon, Abaddon, Belial, and Beelzebub. But Satan and the devil are the names most frequently given.

Satan is mentioned first in the book of (Job 1:6-12; 2:1-7). He appears with the sons of God (angels), among whom he no longer has any rightful place; he arbitrarily roams about and seeks his own but is still used as a servant by God, on whom he remains dependent. His independent activity in this passage is mainly that of the spy of evil, of the accuser of man to God.

Job was delivered into the hands of Satan for testing. Satan's intention was to prove that Job had strings attached to his love for God. Job was faithful.

In the OT Satan never appears openly as the enemy of God Himself. One scholar said it this way, "Though he has his special purposes and aims, he is yet the servant of God for punishment or trial, the asserter or executor of the negative side of the divine justice."
In the NT there is mention of many evil spirits, with Satan as their head (Mt 8:28; 9:34; 12:26; Lk 11:18-19). Jesus said the enemy is the devil (13:19,39; Mark 4:15), and that Satan was a murderer from the beginning (Jn 8:44), the enemy and falsifier of God's Word (Mt 13:19,39); that he aroused hatred to Jesus and put treason into the heart of Judas (Jn 13:27, 6:70; Lk 22:53); that the prince of this world is already judged by Christ, or, as Luke puts it, Satan falls "from heaven like lightning" (10:18).

God will allow rebelion to run its full course and defeat it.

The Devil Is Defeated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Old Testament Feast in the Bible

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1. Feast of Tabernacles:(Ex 23:16; 34:22, Lev 23:33-36; 39-43; Num 29:12-32; Deut 16:13-16; Ezra 3:4); and (Zech 14:16,18-19)

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2. Feast of Pentecost “Fest of Weeks” 50 days after Passover begins. Ex. 23:18, 34:22, Lev. 23:15-21, Num. 28:26-31, Deut. 16:9-12
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3. Feast of Dedication: II Chronicles 7:9 / John 10:22
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4. Feast of Lots: Purim (Heb. purim, "lots," )
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5. Feast of Trumpets: This festival is mentioned in (Lev 23:24-25,27-32) and (Num 29:1-40)
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Areas To Be Tested & Held Accountable For at the Judgment Seat of Christ

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1. Hebrews 6:10; Matthew 10:41-42
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2. Hebrews 13:17; James 3:1
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3. I Corinthians 12:4; 11; II Timothy 1:6; I Peter 4:10
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4. I Corinthians 16:2; II Corinthians 9:6-7; I Timothy 6:17-19
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5. Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5; I Peter 1:17
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6. Matthew5:11-12; Mark 10:29-30; Romans 8:18; II Corinthians 4:17; I Peter 4:12-13
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7. I Corinthians 9:24; Philippians 2:16; Philippians 3:13-14; Hebrews 12:1
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8. I Corinthians 9:25-27
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9. Proverbs 11:30; Daniel 12:3; I Thessalonians 2:19-20
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10. James 1:2-3; Revelation 2:10
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11. II Timothy 4:8-9
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12. Acts 20:26-28; II Timothy 4:1-2; I Peter 5:2-4
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The Power of Reconciliation

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II Corinthians 5:18-21

“18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

Matthew 6:12
“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors”

Matthew 6:14-15
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Mattew 18:21-22
“21 Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.”

Mark 11:25
“And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”

Luke 6:37
“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven:”

2Co 2:10 -
“To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;”

The Power of a Teachable Spirit

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I often hear people say: “LORD take me to another level” but I never hear people say: “LORD enlarge me to be more teachable”. Our next level is linked to us having a greater and enlarged teachable spirit to be able to receive instructions, wisdom, correction, and guidance in righteousness. If you join a church and have a pastor or a mentor please go to receive – and with this comes treasures forever more.

Here are scriptures to get you started:

Ac 28:31 -
Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Ro 2:21 -
Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?

Ro 12:7 -
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

1Co 2:13 -
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

1Co 4:17 -
For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.

1Co 14:19 -
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.

Ga 6:6 -
Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

Eph 4:11 -
And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

2Ti 1:11 -
Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.

2Ti 2:2 -
And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.

2Ti 2:24 -
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,

2Ti 4:3 -
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

Col 1:28 -
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Question & Answer:

1. ”Why” is it difficult for people to be teachable, not looking at the teacher but rather focusing “on the why” regarding the person and their inadequacies?

2. How do a person reach a better mindset regarding being more teachable?

3. Can you be an effective teacher and not be teachable?

4. Does the Kingdom of God need teachable people? Why?

5. Should the pastor be teachable?

6. Should every leader in life be teachable?

7. Is it a fact that, teachable people are normally very humble? Why?

8. Should everyone be yielded to listen and be submitted to receive the doctrine or “teaching” of a “better and more excellent way” outlined by the Bible regarding our life? Why?

9. Do teachable people make great leaders? Why?

* What can you do for the rest of this year, that would cause you to be more teachable in order to grow to another level in God:

The Ministry of the Holy Spirit

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Who is the Holy Spirit?
Holy Spirit is a person and not a force.
Characteristics of Holy Spirit:
• Omniscient, Intelligence (1 Cor 2:10-11)
• Omnipotent, creator (Gen 1:2)
• Omnipresence (Ps 139:7)
• Wisdom (Isa 40:13)
• Holiness (Luke 11:13)
• Feelings (Eph 4:30)
• Will (1 Cor 12:11)

Works of Holy Spirit:
• Teaches (John 14:26)
• Guides (Rom 8:14)
• Commissions (Acts 13:4)
• Commands (Acts 8:29)
• Restrains (Gen 6:3)
• Intercedes (Rom 8:26)
• Speaks (john 15:26, 2 Pet 1:21)

Man’s response to Holy Spirit:
• Obeyed (Acts 10:19-21)
• Lied to (Acts 5:3)
• Resisted (Acts 7:51)
• Revered (Ps 51:11)
• Blasphemed (Matt 12:31)
• Grieved (Eph. 4:30)
• Outraged (Heb 10:29)

Holy Spirit is an equal in deity with the Father and the Son and not a subordinate:
• Named with other persons of Trinity (Acts 5:3-4, Matt 28:19, 2 Cor 13,14)
• All knowing, all powerful, eternal (see Characteristics above)
• Begetting Christ (Luke 1:35)
• Convicting men (John 16:8)
• Regenerating men (John 3:5-6)
• Comforting / helping (John 14:16)
• Interceding (Rom 8:26-27)
• Sanctifying (2 Thess 2:13)

The Power of Prosperity is: Love

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1. I Kings 5:3 (Solomon the King truly loved the Lord with high degree)

“And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places.”

2. I Kings 5:4 (Solomon the King was faithful and committed at bring burnt offerings and offering them in high degree)

“And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that was the great high place: a thousand burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar.”

3. I Kings 5:5 (The Lord sought out Solomon to give him the desires of his heart for his faithfulness and giving heart of excellence)

“In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream by night: and God said, Ask what I shall give thee.”

4. I Kings 5:9 (Solomon asked for wisdom and God gave him wisdom and prosperity due to Solomon’s love toward God)

“Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people? 10 And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. 11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; 12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. 13 And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honour: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.”

5. Matthew 6:21 / Luke 12:34 (Solomon’s heart was totally toward God and God’s heart was totally toward Solomon’s desire) Here is a scripture that speaks toward the revelation of the heart:

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

6. Luke 6:38 (We must give out of love like God gave out of love to save us by offering the greatest offering – His only Son “Jesus Christ” for our sins and eternal life / This is the Power of GIVING) John 3:16

Please review this scripture:
“Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.”

7. Genesis 26:12 – (You must love to sow in order to expect a good harvest)

“Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him.”

8. Ecclesiastes 10:19 – (Money answereth all things regarding the good supply of this world but God answereth all concerns that things cannot solve)

God comes first regarding all concerns and money comes according to its intended purpose of things (which comes from God) regarding the desires and necessities of this world:

“A feast is made for laughter, and wine maketh merry: but money answereth all things.”

1Corinthatins 13:13 – (Charity/Love is the greatest gift of all that produces and becomes the vain by which prosperity follows) LOVE!

“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”

The Power of the Mind

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You Need a HEAD Check!

Discovering the Power of the Mind to overcome the waves of this world to give God the glory!

Php 4:8 - (We must be sure to steward the way the we think)
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Eph 3:20 - (Asking & Thinking work together in the plan of God)
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

1Pe 4:12 – (The scriptures are also designed to cultivate your thinking about even trials that come)
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

Lu 12:40 - (Jesus is coming soon at an hour you think not)
Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

Joh 16:2 - (Make sure your thinking regarding God is TRUE)
They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

Ro 12:3 – (Don’t blow yourself up, you may not be all of that like you think)
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

Ac 17:29 – (Don’t put God in the same category with money and silver, He’s bigger then that)
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

Jer 29:11 – (God wants you to think of yourself like He does toward you)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

Jer 17:9 – (Only God can reveal the true nature of the heart of mind)
The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?

Ro 1:28 - (This is the worst mental condition in the world)
And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient (or holy, lawful, just, appropriate);

Ro 7:25 – (We must serve the Lord with our Mind, Heart & Soul)
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

Ro 7:23 - (The Mind Vs. the Flesh at war)
But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Ro 8:5 – (The Mind of the Flesh Vs. the Spirit)
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.

Ro 8:7 – (The carnal mind is an enemy to the will go God and has not hope)
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Ro 12:16 - (Operate in Unity of Mind)
Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

Ro 15:6 - (One Mind to Glorify God)
That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Php 2:5 – (You must possess the Mind of Christ)
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

The Responsibility of Stewardship in the Kingdom

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The Church * The Apostle * Their Wealth
Acts 4:32-37

Acts 4:32 – (The Church must operate in the Power of Unity having one heart and one soul toward the vision having all things in common concerning the mission)

32. Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common.
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Acts 4:33 – (The Apostle is a church planter (Ex. Paul) called to do the work of ministry to spread the gospel of the glorious power of Jesus Christ)

33. And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.
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Acts 4:34 – (Christians are ordained to be wealthy, to have both lands and houses to offer unto God’s work/Church as they also live a prosperous life)

34. Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold,
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Acts 4:35 – (The People of God took care of the Man of God (Apostle or Pastor) first and then took care of their house)

35. and laid them at the apostles' feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.
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Acts 4:36 – (The Feet of the Preacher is precious in the sight of God because the call of carrying the Gospel from people to people comes with great blessings and with great opposition to which it is holy and customary to lay money at the Apostles feet)

36. And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37.having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles' feet.
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Exposing the 7 idols that hinder a Person from being a committed Tither

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Theme Scripture: Malachi 3:8

1. The idol of: YOU!

Eze 6:5 – (There is nothing wrong with you but you can’t make yourself into a god) “And I will lay the dead carcases of the children of Israel before their idols; and I will scatter your bones round about your altars.”
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2. The idol of: a CAR!

Ps 106:36 – (There is nothing wrong with a car but don’t make a god out of it)“And they served their idols: which were a snare unto them.”
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3. The idol of: HAIR & NAILS!

Le 19:4 – (There is nothing wrong with hair and nails but don’t make a god out of them) “Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the LORD your God.”
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4. The idol of: SHOPPING!

Ps 115:4 – (There is nothing wrong with “things” but don’t make a god out of them) “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands.”
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5. The idol of: FOOD!
Isa 2:8 - (There is nothing wrong with food but don’t make a god out of it)

“Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made: “
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6. The idol of: a HOUSE!
De 29:17 – (There is nothing wrong with a house but don’t make a god out of it)

“And ye have seen their abominations, and their idols, wood and stone, silver and gold, which were among them)”
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7. The idol of: SIN! (ex. Internet surfing etc.)
Isa 45:16 – (There is nothing wrong with technology but don’t make a god out of them)

“They shall be ashamed, and also confounded, all of them: they shall go to confusion together that are makers of idols.”

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The Definition of “Idolatry” is: blind or excessive devotion to something. / Read: Matthew 6:33

Overcoming Being Offended

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“Overcoming being Offended” is a subject that most Christians struggle with. All believers will be offended be people in general whether Christian or not. We must look at the bigger picture that God is counting on us not to engage in the spirit of being offended. Most of the time we are offended over trivial issues.
It’s time to grow up!

Scripture References:

Proverbs 18:19 -
A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city: and their contentions are like the bars of a castle.

Matthew 24:10 -
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.

Matthew 26:31 -
Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.

Matthew 26:33 -
Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.

What can you do to overcome being offended?