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Entries for 'Pastor Jon'
Pastor Jon - February 05, 2012 13:10 :: 60 Views
Pastor Jon - January 15, 2012 13:57 :: 68 Views
Pastor Jon - December 18, 2011 14:24 :: 86 Views
Pastor Jon - December 04, 2011 10:17 :: 79 Views
Pastor Jon - November 24, 2011 16:44 :: 94 Views
Pastor Jon - November 20, 2011 16:02 :: 88 Views
Pastor Jon - November 06, 2011 16:40 :: 101 Views
Pastor Jon - October 23, 2011 12:04 :: 85 Views
Get your Generosity book or sign up for the online learning experience at www.generousyou.com. Use church code FILC when you sign up.
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Pastor Jon - October 16, 2011 11:17 :: 85 Views
Pastor Jon - October 02, 2011 10:40 :: 97 Views
Pastor Jon - September 18, 2011 08:42 :: 102 Views
Pastor Jon - August 28, 2011 15:49 :: 74 Views
Pastor Jon - August 07, 2011 15:34 :: 95 Views
Pastor Jon - July 24, 2011 10:58 :: 127 Views
Pastor Jon - June 26, 2011 09:13 :: 137 Views
Pastor Jon - June 12, 2011 15:30 :: 131 Views
Pastor Jon - May 31, 2011 13:29 :: 149 Views
Pastor Jon - May 15, 2011 15:32 :: 143 Views
Pastor Jon - May 01, 2011 10:24 :: 150 Views
Pastor Jon - April 24, 2011 12:09 :: 191 Views
Pastor Jon - April 24, 2011 12:05 :: 137 Views
Pastor Jon - April 03, 2011 08:43 :: 157 Views
Pastor Jon - March 20, 2011 09:02 :: 167 Views
Pastor Jon - March 16, 2011 08:44 :: 165 Views
Pastor Jon - March 06, 2011 16:20 :: 174 Views
Pastor Jon - January 30, 2011 12:27 :: 177 Views
Pastor Jon - January 02, 2011 09:11 :: 192 Views
Pastor Jon - December 26, 2010 15:02 :: 135 Views
Pastor Jon - December 19, 2010 16:23 :: 188 Views
Pastor Jon - December 12, 2010 11:50 :: 183 Views
Pastor Jon - December 05, 2010 11:31 :: 195 Views
Pastor Jon - December 01, 2010 09:31 :: 177 Views
Pastor Jon - November 28, 2010 11:37 :: 188 Views
Pastor Jon - November 14, 2010 13:07 :: 216 Views
Pastor Jon - November 07, 2010 13:14 :: 195 Views
Pastor Jon - October 31, 2010 12:00 :: 258 Views
Pastor Jon - October 24, 2010 12:04 :: 143 Views
Pastor Jon - October 24, 2010 12:22 :: 271 Views
Pastor Jon - October 10, 2010 16:46 :: 196 Views
Pastor Jon - October 03, 2010 11:27 :: 198 Views
Pastor Jon - September 19, 2010 14:01 :: 188 Views
Pastor Jon - September 05, 2010 14:22 :: 186 Views
Introduction:
I. A Compassionate Relationship
II. A Transforming Relationship
III. A Compelling Relationship
IV. A Forgiving Relationship
Conclusion:
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Pastor Jon - August 29, 2010 10:14 :: 248 Views
Pastor Jon - August 22, 2010 09:22 :: 210 Views
Pastor Jon - August 08, 2010 13:54 :: 231 Views
Pastor Jon - July 11, 2010 09:56 :: 161 Views
It has been said, "A person is as good as his word." This sermon reflection examines this simple truth. According to the Book of Revelation, anyone whose name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life will be entering into God's presence. Do you believe God is as good as His Word? If so, how does your guaranteed place in eternity affect your days? Before you think through that last question too quickly, remember this. Kings will be next to you in eternity. Revelation 21:27 also tells us that nothing impure will ever enter eternity. If that is true, and God is as good as His Word, what is happening in this earthly existence to our impurities? How does the cross fit in to what is currently happening with us? What characteristics of your life will make it into eternity? What parts of you will never see God face to face? How do you know for certain that your name has been called by God, so your name is in the book of eternal Life?
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Pastor Jon - June 20, 2010 11:15 :: 149 Views
The phrase, son of Abraham was used in regard to Zacchaeus. Jesus included him in that family linage. It could mean one of three things. First, that he was a blood relative of Abraham. Or, he could be a descendent of Abraham’s family by means of a faith like Father Abraham had. Or, the third option is that he was both a blood relative of Abraham, and had a faith that put his hope in God, just like Abraham did. Are you a child of Abraham? If so, in what way? Is your linage something that motivates you? It sure did motivate Zaccheaus. Zacchaeus was completely surprised when he got to see who Jesus really was. He was completely transformed by the faith he received from Him. As you reflect on your personal history, what transformations has Jesus brought about through your seeing who He is? Zacchaeus’ transformed life brought benefits to others, who had to deal with him on a daily basis. He paid back anyone that he cheated. What personal transactions have taken place between you and the people around you that give evidence of the new life that you have in Jesus? We do not know for sure, but there is no evidence that Zacchaeus quit his known vocation of being a tax collector. But it can at least be implied that his ethical standards for doing business were greatly modified. What ethical standards do you use to guide you in your business affairs? Are they different than those that the unbelieving world would use? If so, what are those differences?
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Pastor Jon - April 11, 2010 10:34 :: 172 Views
Pastor Jon - April 04, 2010 12:11 :: 135 Views
Mary went to the tomb of Jesus early in the morning, while it was still dark. Are there dark places in your life that cause loneliness, pain, sorrow? How has the darkness affected your life and relationships? How does Easter give you hope for each new day? John didn’t step into the empty tomb. Perhaps he was a bit taken back by walking into that tomb alone. Have you ever felt alone in life? How does the resurrected and living Jesus give you hope for each new day? Peter knew that Jesus died on Good Friday. On Easter Sunday he entered Jesus’ empty tomb and, seeing the discarded graves linens, he knows Jesus is alive! Have you ever been frightened or angered by death? How does Jesus’ resurrection give you hope for eternal life? What difference does the resurrection of Jesus make in your life today and eternally?
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Pastor Jon - April 02, 2010 12:03 :: 167 Views
Pastor Jon - March 28, 2010 10:42 :: 184 Views
What miracles have you seen God accomplish through Jesus--both big and small? What temporal and eternal benefits have those miracles manifested? What forms of praise do you use? Who or what are the biggest potential distractions that can get in the way of your praising God for what He has done? Christ clearly saw the true spiritual condition of all the people as He rode into Jerusalem on a young donkey. What do you see as you assess your spiritual surroundings? How are you participating in those surroundings? Do you see God in the mix? Where do you envision these situations heading?
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Pastor Jon - March 24, 2010 09:17 :: 167 Views
Pastor Jon - March 21, 2010 14:04 :: 165 Views
Why is pride considered as one of the deadly sins? Do you struggle with the sin of pride? In what situations or with whom does your pride come up the most? 1 Cor. 1:18-31 speaks of two different types of wisdom. God’s wisdom and the world’s wisdom. What is the difference between the two? Do you most often follow God’s wisdom or the world’s wisdom? How does this affect your relationship with God? Scripture says, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” Most recently, what wisdom or strength did you depend upon, that only made you foolish or weak? When have you seen in your foolishness or weakness the power of God making you wise or strong? Often our pride and living our lives through the world’s wisdom destroys or breaks our relationships. What will you do to live the calling of God rather than the pride of yourself?
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Pastor Jon - March 14, 2010 11:46 :: 159 Views
Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trusted? How did that make you feel? How did you react? How did it turn out? How did Jesus react to being betrayed (see Matthew 26:47-50; Mark 14:43-46; Luke 22:47-48)? It is a normal reaction to become bitter when we are betrayed, but bitterness doesn’t help. How can you avoid becoming bitter when betrayed? Would you consider prayer or revenge to be healthier and more profitable? Have you prayed for those who have betrayed you and/or harmed you? Did you know that every time we sin we betray Jesus? How do you feel when forgiven by Christ? How can the forgiveness of Christ become the forgiveness you share?
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Pastor Jon - March 03, 2010 10:08 :: 286 Views
Pastor Jon - February 28, 2010 11:21 :: 154 Views
Each time we pray “The Lord’s Prayer” we say, “Thy will be done.” Why is it so hard to live this prayer? Read Jeremiah 29:11. How can this promise of God give you the strength to allow His will to be done rather than yours? Read II Corinthians 9:6-7. What prohibits some people from being cheerful in their giving? When it comes to being generous toward God and toward with our possessions, how can you get to the point of being a “cheerful” giver? It is often said that those who have the most find it harder to give. Our Gospel lesson for today presents a very poor woman who gave all she had to the Lord. Why do you think it is easy for someone who has less to actually give more? How will your attitude have to change for you to make sure that life is more about God than you?
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Pastor Jon - February 21, 2010 16:45 :: 187 Views
Adversity in our lives appears as specific sins, certain temptations, and ongoing struggles. What adversity are you facing today? Does your adversity clutter your life? What clutter is becoming overbearing to you because you can’t seem to move it or get away from? How is this clutter effecting your growth in your relationship with Christ? What tools and resources has God given you to clear the clutter in your life? Christ tells us after we have been forgiven to leave our life of sin. How often do you leave your burdens at the cross of Christ during worship and pick them back up as you leave God’s house? How will your life change when you leave your litter behind? How will your relationship with God now be changed as you leave your litter and burdens with Him? Christ tells us, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”. How will this promise of Christ help carry you through your day overcoming adversity?
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Pastor Jon - February 14, 2010 09:36 :: 176 Views
Jesus said, “Where I am going, you cannot come.” Since He, physically, left this earth He obviously left us something from which to learn how to live by, the Bible. If there is one word that would describe everything that Jesus teaches us in the Bible, what word would you say best describes His teachings?
The word disciple simply means student: Jesus said that if we love one another all men will know that we are His disciple. Is the love that the Christian community shows to you and you to it unique? Yes or No? Has there ever been a time, when you’ve seen Jesus’ reflection in an act someone has done for you? If so, what was that act? Think of your friends that don’t know Jesus, what motivates them to do acts of kindness? What motivates Christians to do similar acts? Are the acts of sacrifice the things that make Christian love different? As a Christian do you see love more about giving or taking? Ideally, what might be a good universal approach to giving and taking in the Christian Community? How might all be benefited by such love?
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Pastor Jon - January 31, 2010 10:27 :: 176 Views
In these past few weeks we have been talking about the Bible. St. Paul writes, I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes. It is the power of God’s Word that brings us faith. It is the Word of God that also strengthens us in faith. How often are you in the Word to be strengthened? Our text says, For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance :that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. Why is this important for your daily life? How would life be different for you if you didn’t know that Jesus suffered, died, and rose for you? How does the fact that you are going to heaven because of Jesus impact your daily life here on earth? If you didn’t know that Jesus saved you from death and opened heaven to you, what would be your attitude about death and the afterlife? What is your greatest expectation of heaven?
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Pastor Jon - January 10, 2010 15:06 :: 198 Views
1. For many in this world the Bible is a history book, or seems to be out dated. How have you seen the words of God become alive in your life? How do you use God’s word on a consistent basis?
2. Jesus tells us he is “the way the truth and the life”. How has God’s truth strengthened you in your faithfulness? When has His Truth been a guiding light for your life? Whose life do you pray God’s truth will help guide?
3. A relationship with Jesus helps us become transformed in our living. Where has God already transformed your relationship with Him? Where do you still want to see a transformation in your life? How are you around God and His word to see that this desire becomes accomplished?
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Pastor Jon - December 31, 2009 11:15 :: 176 Views
Pastor Jon - December 24, 2009 11:18 :: 290 Views
Pastor Jon - December 20, 2009 13:26 :: 179 Views
Think about your past. What ghosts haunt you? Who have you hurt? Who has hurt you? What is God’s opinion of these past hurts; does He count them against you? Justify your thinking in your mind using biblically based concepts.
The word reconciliation means to bring together. Do you look at reconciliation (His bringing Himself and you together) as being a process with God, which takes time to accomplish or is it an immediate reality? Think clearly through your thoughts.
Now look at the sum of all of your relationships, the good ones, the bad ones too. Do you consider reconciliation with other people to be a process, which takes time to accomplish, or must reconciliation be an immediate reality— It all has to be made right now for every single person you know? The word minister means to tend to the needs of another person. How can you artfully administer reconciliation to others that you have already come into contact with and will come into contact with in the future?
As Christ ministers to you through His Word over the course of time, do you find yourself more at peace? Does the tension, as a result of ones past get worse with Christ’s presence, stay the same, or decrease over time? What is going on in your relationship with God that makes you respond to this question in the way that you did?
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Pastor Jon - December 09, 2009 10:56 :: 245 Views
Pastor Jon - December 06, 2009 09:52 :: 174 Views
Which of these points are most important to you, God loves you, God is with you, or God is for you? What makes that one special?
If you really believe God is for you and not against you, what is one thought, attitude, or behavior that you need to change? If it is not you that will change it, then who? If it is not now that you will change it, then when?
How will you incorporate these points in living Christmas as a celebration?
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Pastor Jon - November 22, 2009 12:23 :: 181 Views
In your life what things are you certain about, and what things are you uncertain about. What do you do in your life that helps you stay consistent in uncertain times?
Change always occurs. How well do you deal with change? Does your view of change affect the way you look at your future? How confident are you about your future? What helps your confidence grow?
What areas in your life does Jesus offer certainty and how confident are you in His provisions?
Throughout this week, how will you build your confidence in your relationship with God?
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Pastor Jon - November 15, 2009 15:50 :: 344 Views
True Commitment, Final sermon of the series A Life of True Commitment
Introduction:
What happened to commitment?
I. Jesus’ Commitment (v12)
II. The Church’s Commitment (v16)
III. My Commitment (v17)
Conclusion:
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Pastor Jon - November 09, 2009 08:34 :: 221 Views
I. Be satisfied with life’s essentials
II. Be wary of life’s temptations
III. Be happy in life’s circumstances
Pastor Jon - November 03, 2009 11:27 :: 221 Views
I. True Faith sees beyond the ordinary
• Certainty of what cannot be seen
• Noah looked beyond the ordinary
• Certainty and hope in the stewardship...
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Pastor Jon - October 26, 2009 10:23 :: 195 Views
Our Purpose
God's Purpose
Pastor Jon - October 19, 2009 08:19 :: 193 Views
“True Generosity”
Introduction:
I. God’s Generosity
• Material
• Spiritual
II. My Generosity
• Allows me to walk with God
• Allows oth...
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Pastor Jon - October 05, 2009 10:08 :: 170 Views
Introduction
• Light
• Instead
• Father
• Everyday
Conclusion
Pastor Jon - September 28, 2009 11:27 :: 200 Views
• God Encourages Us to Worship
• We Encourage One Another Through Worship
• We Encourage Others to Worship
Pastor Jon - September 14, 2009 11:39 :: 190 Views
“God Coming to Me”
Luke 4:16-30
• It’s All About God (16-19)
• God Meeting Us (20-25)
• Our Response (26-30)
Pastor Jon - September 08, 2009 12:33 :: 187 Views
What do you see as your purpose in life? Do you live this purpose every day? In what ways are you struggling in living your purpose? What do you ...
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Pastor Jon - August 31, 2009 10:02 :: 174 Views
Why is it that our lives are busier today than ever? Yet so many people lack purpose and meaning? Why is it that our daily, business overshadows ...
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Pastor Jon - August 19, 2009 16:07 :: 174 Views
Where do you see the devil working in your life? What are the ways the devil uses to torment people’s lives? What is the devil doing in tormenting you...
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Pastor Jon - August 19, 2009 15:27 :: 127 Views
What problem(s) do you struggle in on a weekly or a daily basis? Do they become overwhelming for you? Does it become hard to find a way to deal with t...
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Pastor Jon - August 03, 2009 10:05 :: 173 Views
How do you view baptism, as a tradition/cultural acceptance or a life changing experience? What does it mean for you to be baptized into the deat...
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Pastor Jon - July 27, 2009 09:25 :: 208 Views
What are some dark fears you face on a daily basis? What are the differences between the fear of an adult and the fear of a child? What has becom...
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Pastor Jon - July 13, 2009 10:47 :: 191 Views
1. Where do I find security in my daily life?
• _____________________________________
• _____________________________________
• ___________________...
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Pastor Jon - July 06, 2009 12:39 :: 204 Views
Where in your life do you struggle the most in following Jesus? How does this affect your relationship with Him and with others? Do you ever feel...
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Pastor Jon - June 30, 2009 12:34 :: 213 Views
Where do you find value? Does being made by God change where you seek being valued? How do your relationships with others, both good and bad, differ w...
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Pastor Jon - June 15, 2009 09:53 :: 164 Views
The Psalmist declares two outcomes, “the way of the sinners” and “the way of the righteous”. What are the characteristics for each? What is...
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Pastor Jon - June 08, 2009 09:49 :: 179 Views
Have you ever been in a difficult or disastrous situation where you couldn’t find a reason to praise God at the time? How did that affect your relatio...
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Pastor Jon - June 01, 2009 09:53 :: 215 Views
What makes our congregation comfortable for you? How is our twenty-first century culture similar to the first century in which the early disciple...
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Pastor Jon - May 26, 2009 11:14 :: 174 Views
What is your current involvement in the life of the Church? What do you enjoy about your current involvement in the Church and how do you benefi...
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Pastor Jon - May 19, 2009 13:21 :: 159 Views
As the resurrected Jesus gathered His disciples before He ascended into heaven they wondered if Jesus was going to set up a kingdom here on earth wher...
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Pastor Jon - May 11, 2009 11:00 :: 175 Views
Mother's Day 2009
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Pastor Jon - May 04, 2009 12:26 :: 168 Views
What are some of the greatest obstacles that are preventing you from sharing the gospel? What are some of the greatest obstacles that are preventing FIL from sharing the gospel? Joshua 24:15, “As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.” What is being done in your home for teaching about God and growing in a relationship with Him? What ministries of FIL will help you live your faith in sharing it with others? How does living your faith help others grow in a relationship with God? What do you think your life and our church would look like if we carried out the great sending? Would people look different? Would more lives for Jesus be won? When will you be willing to multiply lives for Jesus?
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Pastor Jon - April 20, 2009 13:32 :: 167 Views
Look through the four Gospels to find incidents where Jesus touched someone and brought a positive change in their life? Why did Thomas not belie...
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Pastor Jon - April 13, 2009 15:28 :: 144 Views
Sunrise Easter Service
Pastor Jon - April 13, 2009 15:32 :: 159 Views
Festival Easter Service 7:30
Pastor Jon - April 13, 2009 15:25 :: 141 Views
Contemporary Good Friday Tenebrae Service
Pastor Jon - April 13, 2009 15:17 :: 148 Views
Maundy Thursday Worship Service
Pastor Jon - April 06, 2009 15:51 :: 147 Views
When have you celebrated with Jesus? What prevents you from celebrating with Him more continuously? Jesus’ approval rating goes down greatly? Whe...
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Pastor Jon - March 30, 2009 10:05 :: 143 Views
Failure often hits us head on. Do you see yourself just as a face in the crowd or more like one of these characters? Why? What characteristics do you ...
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Pastor Jon - March 23, 2009 09:46 :: 133 Views
The disciples through this time seem unprepared. As Christians how are we prepared for the challenges of the world? The Sanhadrin is confus...
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Pastor Jon - March 19, 2009 10:24 :: 137 Views
Jesus warned the disciples to “keep watch.” God’s Word reminds us to “be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring ...
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Pastor Jon - March 09, 2009 14:39 :: 156 Views
In my life is there an area I need to step back in and re-evaluate what I am doing? What is amiss in my life? Why do I need to prepare for this m...
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Pastor Jon - March 02, 2009 12:47 :: 134 Views
Simon the Leper, obviously had Jesus over for dinner, to thank Him for healing him. If you could invite Jesus over for dinner what are the first three...
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Pastor Jon - February 16, 2009 11:26 :: 131 Views
Who do people say Jesus is in our day? More important…who do you say He is? Peter had improper expectations of Jesus. In what ways do we have exp...
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Pastor Jon - February 09, 2009 10:28 :: 133 Views
Is there an episode in your past that is serving as a weight in preventing you to run the race of face? Is there a hurting or broken relationship that can be repaired by forgiveness? What would your relationships look like if you practiced repentance and forgiveness on a regular basis? The hardest thing to do is either to repent or to share forgiveness, so when will you start. What do you think happened to the women in the Gospel, did she go back to her old way of life or did she go forward living in repentance and forgiveness? Why do some people go back to their sinful lifestyle? How can we live that new life? Do you perceive forgiveness as a process or an instant remaking?
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Pastor Jon - January 27, 2009 14:13 :: 114 Views
Of the three excuses under point one of the sermon, which do you use most often? Week 1 of our sermon series was about God’s great joy. In what ways have you been more joyful? Week 2 of our sermon series was about God’s great blessings. In what ways have you been more appreciative of God’s blessings in your life? Week 3 of our sermon series was about God’s great expectations. In what ways have you seen transformation in your life to meet His expectations? What challenges stand in the way of your responding to God’s great gifts through your time, talents and treasures? How can you, by the grace of God, overcome them?
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Pastor Jon - January 22, 2009 15:47 :: 129 Views
Do you find yourself to be spiritually inauthentic or authentic? What determines that for you? What are three expectations God has of you? Are you accomplishing these expectations? What are 3 expectations you have for your own spiritual walk with Jesus? How are you going to meet those expectations? True transformation occurs from the inside out. How has First Immanuel Ministry helped you in a transformation from within? Next week the members of First Immanuel Lutheran will make their commitment to the 2009 ministry. As you are prayerfully considering this commitment, how has our study of God’s Joy, God’s Blessings, & God’s Expectations helped you?
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Pastor Jon - January 12, 2009 10:14 :: 139 Views
What normally defines us by this world’s standards? Why is this the case? How then, does my society define me? How does God define who I am? Why is this the case? Who then am I in the eyes of God? What are five obvious blessings in your life? What are twenty blessings that are not so obvious, taken for granted, or over looked in your life? The Apostle Paul helps us understand that each of our blessings are to be used beyond ourselves. How do you use your material blessings beyond yourself? How do you use your spiritual blessings beyond yourself? What blessings would you be willing to start using for others? Throughout this week, come up with your “blessing plan” to use these blessings for the next two weeks in your life.
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Pastor Jon - January 05, 2009 16:31 :: 143 Views
On a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being full of joy and 1 lacking joy) how joyful are you? Would the people know you best agree with your assessment? What is the difference between happiness and joy? Do you find yourself pursuing after happiness or joy? What things try to rob you of joy? What brings joy to God’s heart?
What celebrations will you be involved in which bring you joy? What celebrations will you be involved in that bring God joy?
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Pastor Jon - December 30, 2008 11:40 :: 129 Views
Pastor Jon - December 30, 2008 11:37 :: 134 Views
Pastor Jon - December 22, 2008 09:49 :: 117 Views
Are you 100% sure that you are going to heaven? If not, how certain are you? Why aren’t you 100% sure? How is your earthly journey to this point? What causes your journey joy? What causes it to be troublesome? Jesus lived the perfect life for us, because we cannot. Jesus died on the cross to forgive every one of our sins. When Jesus rose from the grave He gave the promise that whoever lives and believes in Him has eternal life. Is this easy to believe? Is it easy to put your eternal existence in the hands of Jesus? How does the work of Jesus give you the assurance of heaven? How does Jesus’ promise of a blessed eternity in heaven give new perspective to your earthly journey?
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Pastor Jon - December 18, 2008 13:20 :: 116 Views
Pastor Jon - December 15, 2008 13:52 :: 139 Views
What do you consider the purpose of your life? What in your life keeps distracting you from your destination? What have you learned in your journey so far? Is there anything you would do differently? What has become your biggest struggle? What has become your greatest joy? As a family or as an individual have you thought about a life planning session? If you haven’t already, what is your Mission statement? What are your core beliefs and values that make up your mission statement? What are your goals in living out your mission for 2009?
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Pastor Jon - December 08, 2008 16:31 :: 121 Views
When you consider your daily life, what part does God play in it? How often are you talking to God in prayer? How often are you putting God around your life? How do you need to deepen your relationship with God? Can the world tell where you are in your Christian faith? Is it obvious you’re a Christian or do you blend in with the world? How can you better live as a citizen of God’s kingdom? How would others benefit by you living the faith more openly?
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Pastor Jon - December 01, 2008 10:31 :: 138 Views
At times have you felt Christianity is unfair? What persuaded you to think like this? What have become your challenges being a disciple of Jesus? Have your challenges helped you grow in your faith and being a disciple? Jesus understood his mission—what is your mission as a disciple of Jesus? How have you been living this mission out? With your family, talk about your family’s core values and mission statement, how well are you living it to the glory of God? In your following of Jesus, has there been a time when you became the stumbling block to His ministry? How did you grow in your faith through this experience? What can you do to help your fellow Christians to overcome being a stumbling block for the message of the Gospel?
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Pastor Jon - November 24, 2008 09:45 :: 128 Views
Who do people in your life say Jesus is? Do those people know what you would say about who Jesus is? What becomes stumbling blocks in your life of showing what Jesus means to you? How does this world talk about Jesus? How can First Immanuel help change this view of Jesus? What are you able to do to help First Immanuel change this view? Peter’s confession professes who Jesus truly is. When has your confession done the same? When was a time in your life that you didn’t profess Jesus like you should have? How have you grown in your faith since that experience? Jesus is the foundation of our faith. In our community how can you help profess Jesus to people who don’t have a relationship with Him? Who can you invite to be in worship with you? Who can you invite to be in your REACHGroup? Who can you invite to serve beside you? Think and pray about these people as God gives you opportunities to confess your faithfulness of Jesus to them.
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Pastor Jon - November 20, 2008 10:46 :: 121 Views
Who in your life do you know doesn’t have a relationship with God? Do you view them as someone who is welcomed into the family of God or who just shouldn’t belong to the family of God? When have you shared your faith with someone else? When have you invited others to participate with you in your worship, praise, study, or faith in God? Do you live in an unintentional cloister? What are the needs of the people around you? How are you using your spiritual nourishment to help meet their needs? Did you know the majority of our guests come because of being invited by someone connected to our ministry? Who, either in your life or through your REACHGroup, can you connect with in order to share your spiritual nourishment? Who can you help bring into the family of God and not into a cloister? This week think and pray for this person or family you want to connect with, and set out your plan to build this relationship.
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Pastor Jon - November 10, 2008 16:21 :: 106 Views
How concerned are you about the condition of our countries economy and your personal finances? What causes you worry about our nation’s future and our world’s stability? Why are you and others worried about such things? Why is it that we tend to rely on our meager personal resources rather than the power of God when it comes to our daily activities and normal routines? The disciples were frightened when they saw Jesus walking to them on the water. Are there times when you are frightened to have Jesus involved in your life? Life is a faith walk. Is it difficult for you to “get out of the boat” and walk by faith? Why is it difficult for you to “let go and let God” control your life? Peter began to walk the walk, but he turned his thoughts to the problems of life. How can you walk on water without letting the wind and waves of this world’s challenges distract you from Jesus?
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Pastor Jon - October 27, 2008 11:50 :: 103 Views
Why is it important that before we pray we clear our mind of distractions and personal agendas? Someone once said, “You can’t read your Bible without praying and you can’t pray without reading your Bible.” Why is this true? How does reading the Bible in times of prayer assist you in getting out of your mind and getting into God’s? Living out of your mind is living for Christ. Where in your life do you need to be “living out of your mind?” Have you ever tried “prayer & fasting?” How can fasting assist us in focusing on God and His will? Do you think it is more important for us to change God’s mind or God to change our mind? Why? What does God provide for you to know His mind?
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Pastor Jon - October 13, 2008 11:13 :: 344 Views
(2 Samuel 12:1-23)
Why is the answer “No” from God hard to accept? What in your life makes it easier to accept “No” from God? After you pray do you listen for God’s answer? How often are you listening for your will instead of God’s will? After prayer, when have you seen God’s grace being sufficient in your life? How does living under God’s grace, and seeking His will help you grow in your faith? Set aside time each day this week to pray about these things:
• The mission of First Immanuel
• Guidance and Wisdom for our nation’s leaders
• Your relationship with God
• In your community, to build relationships with people who don’t have a relationship with God.
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Pastor Jon - October 06, 2008 09:22 :: 104 Views
(Matthew 6:9-13)
Reflect on a time when an answer to your prayer was obvious? Did God answer you exactly what you prayed for? Do you think God’s hand was evident in the answer? On a scale of 1-5, with 1 being weak and 5 being strong, where is your prayer life? What keeps your prayer life from being deeper? Given that we often turn to the Lord in times of trouble, how easy is it to pray for God’s will to be done rather than yours? How can you be more conscious about praying for God’s will? Set aside time each day this week to pray about these things:
• Persecuted Christians around the world
• Guidance and Wisdom for our nation’s leaders
• The mission of First Immanuel
• For God to help you in your prayer life throughout this month
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Pastor Jon - September 29, 2008 09:07 :: 127 Views
(Philippians 2:1-11)
Who am I? This is sometimes a tough question. Do you struggle on the continuum of self-esteem and arrogance? How does your sin affect this view? How does your sin affect your living? Forgiveness is beautiful. Do you struggle with living under forgiveness? What in your past or present struggles, is difficult to get out from under? What makes it difficult in your life to live as you are forgiven? Forgiveness creates a new life. How do you live new after receiving the forgiveness of your sins at worship? How do you respond to God’s forgiveness after receiving the Lord’s Supper? Forgiveness is a gift from God. This week look up these verses about forgiveness and talk with your family or others on how you will apply God’s word to your life. Matthew 6:12, Ephesians 1:3-10, Colossians 3:12-17. How will you bask in God’s forgiveness daily?
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Pastor Jon - September 22, 2008 15:26 :: 128 Views
(Acts 8:26-40)
In your life, when do you find yourself struggling to live your faith? Is it difficult to live your faith around your family, friends, in the work place? As God prepares hearts to hear His word, who in your life do you see God preparing? How intentional are you looking to see where God is preparing hearts? How have you responded to them already or when do you plan to respond to them? The Lord blesses each of us with opportunities to help others grow in a relationship with God. When did you respond to an opportunity God presented for you? When have you not responded to God’s opportunity which he has presented for you? Can you go back to that person and change your response? How has that changed your response since?
This week look at your relationships and determine who you will try to find opportunities to share God’s love and forgiveness. Pray for them, and pray for yourself that God will give you the words and actions when the opportunity presents itself?
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Pastor Jon - September 22, 2008 14:03 :: 107 Views
(Matthew 18:15-35)
How do you normally deal with conflict? Do you find yourself stressing in your life when conflict arises? How often do you go to God? Jesus specifically displays in His life how to go to the one who offended you and offer them forgiveness. When was the last time you forgave someone? How was your relationship after your conflict was resolved? Who in your life do you feel you have unresolved conflict with? Do they know about it? Have you spoken with them in a kind Christian manner about your conflict? If not when do you plan too? The power of forgiveness can change a person’s life. When was a time someone forgave you for something either you didn’t expect them to, or you felt so blessed because they forgave you? Where do you see forgiveness strengthening your relationships? Whose sins have you not forgiven that you should? How will your life be different from this message from God’s word?
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Pastor Jon - September 08, 2008 08:40 :: 114 Views
Healing Past Wounds
Pastor Jon - September 02, 2008 12:19 :: 142 Views
Recover From Injuries-Pastor Jon
Pastor Jon - August 25, 2008 09:49 :: 179 Views
Reach for the Goal
Pastor Jon - August 11, 2008 09:18 :: 171 Views
Remove Any Hindrances
Pastor Jon - July 28, 2008 09:53 :: 148 Views
Building Bridges with Actions
Pastor Jon - July 21, 2008 11:11 :: 146 Views
Building Bridges with Words
Pastor Jon - July 14, 2008 10:33 :: 160 Views
Vision From God Leads to Action for God
Pastor Jon - July 07, 2008 12:13 :: 163 Views
Rest for the Restless
Pastor Jon - July 01, 2008 09:21 :: 165 Views
Out With the Old, In With the New
Pastor Jon - June 18, 2008 11:45 :: 159 Views
Vocation: Live That Faith
Pastor Jon - June 09, 2008 12:13 :: 132 Views
Called to Faith
Pastor Jon - June 02, 2008 14:33 :: 166 Views
Fixing Firm Foundations
Pastor Jon - May 27, 2008 12:31 :: 174 Views
Don't Worry About Nuthin
Pastor Jon - May 19, 2008 10:06 :: 156 Views
Outreach O8
Pastor Jon - May 05, 2008 13:54 :: 155 Views
We Live
Pastor Jon - May 05, 2008 12:56 :: 160 Views
We Believe
Pastor Jon - April 07, 2008 11:03 :: 154 Views
The first in the 6 part sermon series entitled 3:16 that goes with the church wide Bible Study of 3:16
Pastor Jon - March 31, 2008 12:43 :: 139 Views
peace on earth
Pastor Jon - March 25, 2008 14:15 :: 154 Views
Festival Services Easter
Pastor Jon - March 25, 2008 12:38 :: 148 Views
Good Friday Tenebrae Service-Traditional
Pastor Jon - March 18, 2008 16:22 :: 182 Views
Palm Sunday
Pastor Jon - March 11, 2008 08:33 :: 152 Views
What is our Vision?
Pastor Jon - February 19, 2008 10:45 :: 180 Views
God's vision deals with relationships. It is our relationship that continues to grow by us reaching up to God in worship.
Pastor Jon - February 04, 2008 09:02 :: 186 Views
Each day every American accumilates 4lbs of trash, not nearly the same amount of weight our lives carry around from our guilt and shame of how we some...
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