I. You Must SANCTIFY CHRIST in Your HEART (1 Pet. 3:15).
v. 15a: but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;

Sanctify –
As Lord –

II. You Must Show CHRIST by Your LIFE (1 Pet. 3:14a)
v. 15a: but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;

Defense –
Account –

III. You Must SHARE CHRIST with OTHERS (1 Pet. 3:14b)
v. 15a: but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;

Gentleness –
Reverence –

Luke 18:9-14: To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’

But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’

“I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

Application

1. What can you do to sanctify Christ as Lord in your heart?
2. What will you do to prepare yourself to give an account of the hope in you?
3. How can you do a better job serving others through Good Hope ministries?
4. Make a list of 5 people you believe do not know Jesus as Lord and Savior, and share
your faith with them.

1 Peter 3:15; Assorted Scriptures
by
Re. Russell de Pina

You Should Share The Good News Because of What Christ Did For You

but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, 1 Pet. 3:15a (ESV)

How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Rom. 10:14-15 (ESV)

kerysso – preaching, proclaiming.

You Must Understand That Sharing Your Salvation Through Good Works is More Important Than Sharing It With Words

“You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.“ You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Mt. 5:13-16 (NLT)

For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Eph. 2:10 (NLT)

Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.” Jam. 2: 18 (NLT)

always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you 1 Pet. 3:15b (ESV)

A. You Must Be Prepared to Tell Others About Your Salvation Intelligently

Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. Eph. 6:14-15 (NLT)

B. You Must Be Prepared To Tell Others About Your Salvation Respectfully

There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor? Jam. 4:12 (ESV)

having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame. 1 Pet. 3:16 (ESV)

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Rom. 12:21 (ESV)

Philippians 4:10-13; Selected Scriptures
By
D.Z. Cofield, Th.M., D. Min.
June 4, 2023

Responsive Reading – Proverbs 22:7 (ESV), 22-27 (NLT2)

Leader: 7 The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the
lender.

Congregation: 22 Don’t rob the poor just because you can, or exploit the
needy in court.

Leader: 23 For the LORD is their defender. He will ruin anyone who ruins
them.

Congregation: 24 Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hottempered
people,

Leader: 25 or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.

Congregation: 26 Don’t agree to guarantee another person’s debt or put up
security for someone else.

Everyone: 27 If you can’t pay it, even your bed will be snatched from under
you.

Jack Whittaker
David Lee Edwards
William Post
Evelyn Basehore
Billie Bob Harrell Jr.

YOU ARE IN DEBT WHEN YOU SPEND MORE THAN
YOU MAKE.

YOU ARE IN DEBT WHEN YOU SAY YES TO
YOURSELF MORE THAN YOU SHOULD.

1. You must realize becoming CONTENT is something you
must LEARN, not something you are BORN with.
Philippians 4:10-11 (ESV) – I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at
length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned
for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in
need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

Learned –

Content –

Proverbs 14:30 (CEV) – It’s healthy to be content, but envy can eat you up.

Proverbs 30:7-9 (ESV) – Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me
before I die: 8 Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither
poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, 9 lest I be
full and deny you and say, “Who is the LORD?” or lest I be poor and steal
and profane the name of my God.

2. You need to realize you can achieve a state of

CONTENTMENT despite the CIRCUMSTANCES you find
YOURSELF in.

Philippians 4:12 (NLT) – I know how to live on almost nothing or with
everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is
with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.

A. Contentment is possible whether you have SOMETHING or
NOTHING.

Luke 12:15 (NLT) – Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of
greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.”

B. Contentment is possible regardless of the SITUATION you find
YOURSELF in.

Ecclesiastes 5:10 (TEV) – If you love money, you will never be satisfied; if
you long to be rich, you will never get all you want. It is useless.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NLT) – Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great
wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world,
and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough
food and clothing, let us be content. 9 But people who long to be rich fall into
temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge
them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds
of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith
and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

Ecclesiastes 6:9 (NLT) – Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you
don’t have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless—like chasing
the wind.

3. You need to realize your ability to be CONTENT is only
achievable when you DEPEND upon CHRIST.

Philippians 4:13 (NLT) – For I can do everything through Christ, who gives
me strength.

Philippians 4:10-17 (ESV) – I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at
length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned
for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in
need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know
how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every
circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger,
abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens
me. 14 Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. 15 And you Philippians
yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia,
no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except
you only. 16 Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and
again. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your
credit.

A. You can only become content when you depend upon Christ to
STRENGTHEN you.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV) – But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for
you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the
more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon
me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults,
hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am
strong.

B. You can only become content when you depend upon Christ to
TAKE CARE of you.

Hebrews 13:5-6 (ESV) – Keep your life free from love of money, and be
content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor
forsake you.” 6 So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not
fear; what can man do to me?”

Psalm 28:7 (NLT) – The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all
my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of
thanksgiving.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Do you think most people play the lottery to take care of their needs,
satisfy their greed, or a little of both? Explain.
2. Why do you think so many people end up broke after winning the
lottery?
3. In general, when you look at your life do you think you are more content
or discontent? Explain
4. Why is it so challenging to be content in life, especially when it comes
to getting and having possessions?
5. What has happened to you that helped you learn how to become more
content in life?
6. When was a time you felt contentment in the middle of problems or
uncertainty?
7. When you look at Philippians 4:13 in its context, how can God
strengthen you to become consistently content in your life.
8. How can you distinguish the difference between what you really need
and what you only want?
9. How does coveting the things of this world keep you from being
content?
10. What’s the relationship between being content and giving thanks for
your blessings?
11. What’s the relationship between being content and giving your material
possessions to do the kingdom work of God?
12. What can you do this week to become more content in your life?

Romans 12:1-11; Selected Scriptures
By
Aaron Simpson, M.Div.
May 28, 2023

Responsive Reading – Romans 12:1-11 (NASB)

Leader: 1 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and
holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship

Congregation: 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your
mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.—

Leader: 3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of
himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a
measure of faith. .

Congregation: 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the
same function,

Leader: 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another.

Congregation: 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use
them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith;

Leader: 7 or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching;

Congregation: 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with
diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness

Leader: 9 Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.
Congregation: 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in
honor

Everyone: 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord

A LIFESTYLE of SERVICE

1. You must make YOURSELF AVAILABLE to SERVE.
Romans 12:1-2 (NASB) – Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your
bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship2 And
do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you
may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Proverbs 23:7a (NKJV) – For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.

Matthews 36:20 (NASB) – It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among
you shall be your servant

Mark 10:45 (NASB) – For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give
His life a ransom for many.”

John 13:16 (NIV) – Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger
greater than the one who sent him.

2. You must discover your GIFTS and AREA of SERVICE for the body to FUNCTION
efficiently

Romans 12:3-8 (NASB) – For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among
you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has
dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the
members do not have the same function, 5 so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and
individually members of one another. 6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given
to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry, let us use
it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with
liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Ephesians 2:10 (NASB) – For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,
which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.

2 Timothy 3:17 (NASB) – So that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work

A. Within the Community of Faith

Romans 12:10,13 (NASB) – Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one
another in honor; 13 contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality

Hebrews 6:10 (NASB) – For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have
shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints.

B. Outside the Community of Faith

Romans12:16 (NASB) – Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind,
but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation

Associate with–

3. You must serve with PASSION and ENTHUSIASM
Romans 12:11 (NASB) – Not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord

Lagging –
Diligence –
Fervent –

Colossians 3:23-24 (NASB) – Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for
men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ
whom you serve.

Ephesians 6:7 (NASB) – With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men

L.I.F.E. Group Questions
1. Has there been a time when you can recall presenting yourself to God as a living sacrifice? If
not, how about today?
2. What do you need to do make yourself more available for service?
3. In what areas of your life do you feel you need to sacrifice more to be more available for God?
4. Have you discovered your spiritual gift(s)?
5. How can changing the way you think help you to transform your lifestyle more into one of
service?
6. In what area(s) of service do you feel God calling you to serve?
7. What do you need to do, from this point forward, to maximize your talent, skills and abilities
and let God work through you?

8. Do you feel your gifts and talents help the body of Christ function more effectively within the
community of faith or outside the community of faith?

9. Why is it important to have enthusiasm and passion in all you do when serving the Lord?

10. What can you do to keep yourself motivated to serve?
Dr. Elliott Mallory-Greene “The Quality of Mercy” (Matthew 5:7) Media

Main Idea:
Those who have experienced God’s mercy in Christ will show it to others and so demonstrate their
Christly character and their destiny as those who will receive mercy at the last day.

Restatement:
Those who are merciful are so because they have been saved by the mercy of God in Christ, and now live
in it.

A. Mercy is where ministry meets misery.

1. The first four beatitudes focused primarily on a state of mind; however, this beatitude adds to the
state of mind nuance the readiness to act.

2. Mercifulness requires action.

3. What does it mean to be merciful?
a. Mercy means sympathy or compassion toward the needy or guilty.
b. Mercy means taking on the suffering of others; not just sympathy but empathy.
c. Mercy includes both feelings and actions.
d. Toward the needy, the merciful person offers help.
e. Toward the guilty, the merciful person deals compassionately with them.
f. God’s actions in Christ are pictured as merciful.
g. Hebrew 2:17 shows how Christ“ had to be made us his brothers [and sisters] [namely us] in
every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of
God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”
h. Mercy in the heart and actions of one who professes Christ is a paternity test.
i. Mercy is a kindness exhibited to someone caught in an offense against you.

B. Those who exhibit mercy shall receive it, especially through the Christ atoning work on the cross in
service and sacrifice to His Father.

C. But also mercy is a quality that the Body of Christ must evidence because we are organically
connected to Christ.

Responsive Reading – Ephesians 2:1-10 (ESV)

Leader: 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins

Congregation: 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of
the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—

Leader: 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the
body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.

Congregation: 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us,

Leader: 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace
you have been saved—

Congregation: 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ
Jesus,

Leader: 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness
toward us in Christ Jesus.

Congregation: 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is
the gift of God,

Leader: 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Everyone: 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God
prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

How To MAKE The MOST of Your LIFE

Lausanne Covenant –

GOD wants His whole CHURCH to take the whole GOSPEL to the whole WORLD.

1. You need to realize GOD has done a WORK for YOU. (Eph. 2:4-9)

A. YOU ARE LOVED BY GOD! (v. 4).

Ephesians 2:4 (ESV) – But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved
us,

B. YOU ARE ALIVE IN CHRIST! (v. 5).

Ephesians 2:5 (ESV) – even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with
Christ—by grace you have been saved—

C. YOU HAVE BEEN EXALTED BY HIS POWER! (v. 6).

Ephesians 2:6 (ESV) – and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in
Christ Jesus,

D. YOU HAVE BEEN KEPT BY GOD! (vv. 7-9).

Ephesians 2:7-9 (ESV) – so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his
grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And
this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

2. You need to let GOD work in YOU (Eph. 2:10a)

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) – For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Workmanship –

To do this, He uses three special tools:

A. The WORD of God

1 Thessalonians 2:13 (ESV) – And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received
the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it
really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.

B. PRAYER

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV) – Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or
think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

C. SUFFERING

1 Peter 4:10-14 (ESV) – As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards
of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as
one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified
through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 12 Beloved, do not
be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were
happening to you. 13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice
and be glad when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed,
because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV) – to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and
is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on
the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

3

3. You need to let GOD work THROUGH you (Eph. 2:10b)

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) – For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which
God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Walk –

James 2:14-20 (ESV) – What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have
works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16
and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things
needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18
But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works,
and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the
demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from
works is useless?

Matthew 5:16 (ESV) – In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your
good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Titus 2:14 (ESV) – who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for
himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.

Hebrews 13:16 (ESV) – Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices
are pleasing to God.

1 Peter 2:12 (ESV) – Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak
against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

Prepared beforehand –

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Who do you know that, based on talent, skills and abilities, didn’t make the most of their life?
Explain
2. In what area of your life do you feel you didn’t maximize your talent, skills and abilities?
3. How important is it to know God has done a work for you? Explain
4. Why should you constantly remind yourself you are loved by God?
5. How can knowing you’ve been raised up in Jesus Christ help you have a more positive view of
yourself?
6. Describe what it feels like to know you’ve been kept by God, and that God has kept you
through your life even when He didn’t keep you from some things.

4

7. Why is it important to let God work in you?
8. How does God use the Bible to do a work in and on you?
9. What role does prayer play in allowing God to work in you?
10. When has your personal suffering allowed God to work in you and help you grow in Him?
11. What does it mean to truly follow Jesus when He leads?
12. What do you need to do to surrender the leadership of your life to Jesus?
13. How important is it to know God can work through you?
14. Where do you feel God calling you to do good works?
15. What do you need to do, from this point forward, to maximize your talent, skills and abilities
and let God work through you?

2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Selected Scriptures
By
D.Z. Cofield, Th.M., D. Min.
May 14, 2023

Responsive Reading – Galatians 5:16-25 (ESV)

Leader: But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

Congregation: For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are
against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to
do.

Leader: But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

Congregation: Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,

Leader: idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,

Congregation: envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before,
that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Leader: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Congregation: gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Leader: And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

Everyone: If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.

Intro:

Sun Tzu said if you know the enemy and know yourself in a hundred battles you will never be
in peril. When you are ignorant of the enemy but know yourself, your chances of winning or
losing are equal. If ignorant both of your enemy and of yourself, you are certain in every battle
to be in peril.

TODAY I WANT TO TALK TO YOU FROM THE THOUGHT:

How To OVERCOME The STRONGHOLDS In Your Life

Colossians 1:13 (ESV) – He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the
kingdom of his beloved Son,

Galatians 1:4 (ESV) – who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age,
according to the will of our God and Father,

1. You need to realize you are in a SPIRITUAL battle EVERYDAY of your life with your
STRONGHOLDS.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV) – For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to
the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy
strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God,
and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
Strongholds –

Ephesians 6:10-12 (ESV) – Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on
the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do
not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic
powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

A. You are in a spiritual battle with the devil.

1 Peter 5:8 (ESV) – Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a
roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

Devil –

B. You are in a spiritual battle with your FLESH.

Romans 7:21-25 (ESV) – So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. 22

For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, 23 but I see in my members another law waging war
against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. 24
Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? 25 Thanks be to God through
Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve
the law of sin.

2. You need to realize you must depend upon the POWER of GOD to be VICTORIOUS over
your strongholds.

Romans 8:11 (ESV) – If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who
raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells
in you.

A. THE HOLY SPIRIT FIGHTS WITH YOU!

B. THE HOLY SPIRIT FIGHTS FOR YOU!

1 John 4:4 (ESV) – Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is
greater than he who is in the world.

3. You must CHOOSE to FIGHT to overcome the STRONGHOLDS in your life.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV) – For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to
the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy
strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God,
and take every thought captive to obey Christ,

Warfare –

A. Ask God to reveal the SIN that is at the root of your stronghold and CONFESS it.

1 John 1:8-10 (ESV) – If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If
we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all
unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

B. REPENT of the sinful acts and RELEASE the pain caused by sin.

Acts 3:19 (ESV) – Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,

Hebrews 12:1 (ESV) – Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us
also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race
that is set before us,

C. Ask GOD to give you what you need to set you FREE from the POWER the
stronghold has over your life.

Galatians 5:16 (ESV) – But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV) – No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is
faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also
provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

James 5:16 (ESV) – Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you
may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Do you know anyone who had an enemy they were unaware of? Explain
2. When did you realize you have an enemy and are in a spiritual battle everyday?
3. What’s the difference between a sin and a stronghold?
4. When was a time you were in a spiritual battle with the devil? Explain
5. When was a time you were in a spiritual battle with your flesh? Explain
6. Where do you see spiritual battles most in your life today?
7. What stronghold can you identify in your life?
8. How necessary is it for you to depend on the power of God for you to be victorious in your
spiritual battles?
9. What comfort do you find in knowing the Holy Ghost fights with and for you to help you
overcome your strongholds?
10. What does it mean to choose to fight to overcome the strongholds in your life?
11. Why is it important to repent of your sinful acts in order to break the power of your
strongholds?
12. Why is it important to release the sinful acts of others against you in order to break the power
of your strongholds?
13. What spiritual weapons are available to you?
14. How can you better utilize the spiritual weapons that are available to you?
15. What do you need to do to maintain your freedom in overcoming your stronghold once God
delivers you?

Responsive Reading – John 20:19-22 (ESV)

Leader: 19 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the
disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be
with you.”

Congregation: 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples
were glad when they saw the Lord.

Leader: 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am
sending you.”

Everyone: 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy
Spirit.”

1. You need to RECOGNIZE His PRESENCE.

John 20:19 (ESV) – On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked
where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them,
“Peace be with you.”

John 7:8-13 (ESV) – You go up to the feast. I am not going up to this feast, for my time has not yet
fully come.” 9 After saying this, he remained in Galilee. 10 But after his brothers had gone up to the
feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. 11 The Jews were looking for him at the feast,
and saying, “Where is he?” 12 And there was much muttering about him among the people. While
some said, “He is a good man,” others said, “No, he is leading the people astray.”13 Yet for fear of the
Jews no one spoke openly of him.

Hebrews 13:5 (ESV) – Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have,
for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

2. You need to RECEIVE His PEACE.

John 20:19-21 (ESV) – On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked
where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them,
“Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the
disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the
Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.”

Glad –

John 14:27 (ESV) – Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give
to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

John 16:22 (ESV) – So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will
rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.

3. You need to accept His PURPOSE for your LIFE.

John 20:21 (ESV) – Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even
so I am sending you.”

John 15:16 (ESV) – You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go
and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he
may give it to you.

4. You need to RECEIVE His POWER.

John 20:22 (ESV) – And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the
Holy Spirit.

A. HE GIVES YOU HIS POWER IN THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.

Receive –

B. HE GIVES YOU HIS AUTHORITY IN THE PROCLAMATION OF HIS WORD.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. What’s something that a lot of people are afraid of?
2. Did you have a favorite hiding place when you were growing up or wanted to get away? Explain.
3. Where is it dangerous to openly follow Christ today?
4. Who have you not seen in a while that you would be really glad to see again?
5. What does it mean to know that Jesus is present with you?
6. What does it mean to know Jesus gives peace to you?
7. What does it mean to know Jesus has a plan and purpose for your life?
8. What does it mean to know Jesus makes the Holy Spirit available to empower you?
9. What do you need to do to walk in the power The LORD makes available to you?
10. To whom has Jesus sent you?
11. What do you need to do reach people Jesus gives you an opportunity to touch?
12. What do you need to do this week to overcome fear in your life so you can do what The LORD
commands you to do?

Luke 24:1-9; Selected Scriptures
By
D.Z. Cofield, Th.M., D. Min.
April 9, 2023

Responsive Reading – Luke 24:1-12 (ESV)

Leader: 1 But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices
they had prepared.

Congregation: 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb,

Leader: 3 but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

Congregation: 4 While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling
apparel.

Leader: 5 And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them,
“Why do you seek the living among the dead?

Congregation: 6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in
Galilee,

Leader: 7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on
the third day rise.”

Congregation: 8 And they remembered his words,

Leader: 9 and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest.

Congregation: 10 Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the
other women with them who told these things to the apostles,

Leader: 11 but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them.

Everyone: 12 But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by
themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.

1. You need to realize YOU want something MEANINGFUL in life.

Luke 24:1-4 (NLT) – But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices
they had prepared. 2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. 3 So they went in,
but they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared
to them, clothed in dazzling robes.

A. LOOKING FOR PEACE

B. LOOKING FOR JOY

C. LOOKING FOR VALUE & PURPOSE

D. LOOKING FOR COMMUNITY

E. LOOKING FOR REAL LOVE

Amos 5:4 (ETRV) – The LORD says this to the nation of Israel: “Come looking for me and live.

2. You need to realize looking for the RIGHT thing doesn’t matter if you’re looking in the
WRONG place.

Luke 24:5-6a (NLT) – The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men
asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from
the dead!

Matthew 6:19-21 (NLT) – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust
destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and
rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires
of your heart will also be.

3. You need to know you can ONLY find what you’re LOOKING for if you look in the RIGHT
place.

Luke 24:6-9 (NLT) – He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in
Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he
would rise again on the third day.” 8 Then they remembered that he had said this. 9 So they rushed back
from the tomb to tell his eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened.

Luke 24:35-40 (NLT) – Then the two from Emmaus told their story of how Jesus had appeared to them as
they were walking along the road, and how they had recognized him as he was breaking the bread. 36
And just as they were telling about it, Jesus himself was suddenly standing there among them. “Peace be
with you,” he said. 37 But the whole group was startled and frightened, thinking they were seeing a ghost!
38 “Why are you frightened?” he asked. “Why are your hearts filled with doubt? 39 Look at my hands. Look
at my feet. You can see that it’s really me. Touch me and make sure that I am not a ghost, because
ghosts don’t have bodies, as you see that I do.” 40 As he spoke, he showed them his hands and his feet.

A. Only GOD can meet your need for PEACE.

John 14:27 (NLT2) – “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is
a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”

John 16:33 (ESV) – “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world
you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Colossians 3:15 (ESV) – And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were
called in one body. And be thankful.

B. Only GOD can meet your need for JOY.

John 15:11 (ESV) – These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy
may be full.

John 16:24 (ESV) – Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that
your joy may be full.

John 17:13 (ESV) – But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may
have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

C. Only GOD can meet your need for VALUE and PURPOSE.

Matthew 10:28-31 (NLT) – “Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your
soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 What is the price of two sparrows—
one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. 30 And
the very hairs on your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a
whole flock of sparrows.

Acts 11:23 (NKJV) – When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them
all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord.

D. Only GOD can meet your need for COMMUNITY.

John 1:11-13 (NLT) – He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. 12 But to all who believed
him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. 13 They are reborn—not with a
physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.

Ephesians 2:19 (NLT) – So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens
along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family.

E. Only GOD can meet your need for real LOVE.

John 3:16-17 (NKJV) – For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever
believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world
to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

1 John 4:10 (NLT) – This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a
sacrifice to take away our sins.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Have you ever had to look for something you lost for an extended period of time? Did you find it?
Explain
2. How did you feel when you could not find what you were looking for?
3. How did you feel when you finally found what you misplaced?
4. Why did the women go to Jesus’ tomb? (24:1)
5. What did the women find once they arrived at the tomb? (24:2)
6. What happened while the women were wondering what had happened to Jesus’ body? (24:4)
7. What did the angels tell the women about Jesus? (24:5-7)
8. What did the women do after they were told Jesus had risen from the dead as He had predicted?
(24:9)
9. What do you think is the greatest need you have between unconditional love, belonging or having
value and purpose? Explain.
10. Has accepting Jesus Christ as your Savior helped you find what you really needed? Explain
11. If the gospel is such good news, why are you sometimes reluctant to tell others about how Jesus
Christ saved you and can save others?
12. How does this story encourage you to share your faith with others?

1 THESSALONIANS 5:1-11 CSB
Selected Scriptures

By
Rev. Ronald Bell, Sr.
Sunday, March 19, 2023

RESPONSIVE READING
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 CSB

LEADER: 5 About the times and the seasons: Brothers and sisters, you do not need
anything to be written to you.

CONGREGATION: 2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will
come just like a thief in the night.

LEADER: 3 When they say, “Peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come
upon them, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

CONGREGATION: 4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in the dark, for this day to
surprise you like a thief.

LEADER: 5 For you are all children of light and children of the day. We do not belong to
the night or the darkness.

CONGREGATION: 6 So then, let us not sleep, like the rest, but let us stay awake and be
self-controlled.

LEADER: 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at
night.

CONGREGATION: 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled and put
on the armor of faith and love, and a helmet of the hope of salvation.

LEADER: 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our
Lord Jesus Christ,

CONGREGATION: 10 who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we may
live together with him.

EVERYONE: 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are
already doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 CSB: 5 About the times and the seasons: Brothers and sisters, you do not need anything to be
written to you. 2 For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come
just like a thief in the night. 3 When they say, “Peace and security,” then sudden
destruction will come upon them, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will
not escape. 4 But you, brothers, and sisters, are not in the dark, for this day to surprise
you like a thief. 5 For you are all children of light and children of the day. We do not
belong to the night or the darkness. 6 So then, let us not sleep, like the rest, but let us
stay awake and be self-controlled. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who
get drunk, get drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be selfcontrolled
and put on the armor of faith and love, and a helmet of the hope of
salvation. 9 For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our
Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we may
live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as
you are already doing.

I. You must know who you are. (vv4-5)

4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in the dark, for this day to surprise you
like a thief. 5 For you are all children of light and children of the day. We do not
belong to the night or the darkness.

Children of Light –

Matthew 5:14–16 (NASB95) — 14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill
cannot be hidden; 15 nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the
lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 “Let your light shine before
men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in
heaven.

1 John 1:6-7 CSB: 6 If we say, “We have fellowship with him,” and yet we walk in darkness, we are lying and
are not practicing the truth. 7 If we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have
fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.

II. You must stay woke. (vv6-10)

6 So then, let us not sleep, like the rest, but let us stay awake and be self-controlled.
7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get
drunk at night. 8 But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled and put
on the armor of faith and love, and a helmet of the hope of salvation. 9 For God
did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus
Christ, 10 who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep, we may live
together with him.

Ephesians 6:18 CEB: 16 Above all, carry the shield of faith so that you can extinguish the flaming arrows of
the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s
word. 18 Offer prayers and petitions in the Spirit all the time. Stay alert by hanging in
there and praying for all believers.
Stay Awake (V6) –

Luke 21:34-36 NLT: 34 “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by
the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, 35 like a trap. For that day
will come upon everyone living on the earth.

1 Corinthians 16:13 NLT: 13 Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.

1 Peter 5:8 NLT: 8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring
lion, looking for someone to devour.

III. You must be persistent. (v11-CSB)

11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up as you are already
doing.

Encourage –

Proverbs 16:24 ESV: 24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

Acts 4:36 CEB: 36 Joseph, whom the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (that is, “one who encourages”), was
a Levite from Cyprus.

Hebrews 3:13 (NASB95) — 13 But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is
still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 10:25 (NASB95) — 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the
habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day
drawing near.

Romans 15:4 NLT: 4 Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures
give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.

Buildup –

Romans 15:2 HCSB: 2 Each one of us must please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

Ephesians 4:29 (NASB95) — 29 Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth,
but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so
that it will give grace to those who hear.

Colossians 2:6-7 HCSB: 6 Therefore, as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in Him, 7 rooted and built
up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, overflowing with
gratitude.

.I.F.E. Group Questions
1. How do you react when you hear predictions about the end of the world?
2. What contrast is there between believers and non-believers? (5:4-8)
3. According to 1 Thes. 5:4-8, how does a person who belongs to the light
think and behave?
4. What dangers are associated with living in darkness (1 Thes. 5:5-7)?
5. What instructions does Paul give for living in the light (1 Thes. 5:8)?
6. What roles should faith, hope, and love play in our lives? (5:8)
7. Paul tells us that our defensive weapons against darkness are faith, love
and hope (1 Thes. 5:8). What are some practical ways in which these
virtues can defend you?
8. For what reason can we be assured of our salvation? (5:9-10)
9. What is God’s plan for us (1 Thes. 5:9-11)?
10. How should a believer use this information to help others? (5:11)
11. What do you want to take to heart from 5:1-11?
12. What do you want to do about it?

Responsive Reading – Matthew 25:31-40 (ESV) –

Leader: 31 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then
he will sit on his glorious throne.

Congregation: 32 Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate
people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.

Leader: 33 And he will place the sheep on his right, but the goats on the left.

Congregation: 34 Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are
blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the
world.

Leader: 35 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
I was a stranger and you welcomed me,

Congregation: 36 I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was
in prison and you came to me.’

Leader: 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you
hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink?

Congregation: 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and
clothe you?

Leader: 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’

Everyone: 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of
the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’

Mark 10:42-45 (ESV) – And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that
those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones
exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would
be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you
must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and
to give his life as a ransom for many.”

1 Peter 4:7-9 (ESV) – The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and
sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another
earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another
without grumbling.

1. You must USE the GIFT God has given you to SERVE others.

1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) – As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good
stewards of God’s varied grace:

1 Peter 4:10 (NLT2) – God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual
gifts. Use them well to serve one another.

Gift –

Serve –

It’s your task to use your gift to:

A. BUILD up BELIEVERS in the church

B. WITNESS and MINISTER to the WORLD.

Ephesians 4:11-12 (NLT2) – Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the
apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their
responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body
of Christ.

2. You must USE the GIFT God has given you to SERVE in the POWER of
God.

1 Peter 4:11 (ESV) – whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever
serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies — in order that in
everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and
dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:11 (NLT2) – Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God
himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all
the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to
God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

Strength –

Supplies –

Galatians 6:10 (NLT2) – Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do
good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith.

3. You must USE the GIFT God has given you to SERVE to the GLORY of God.

1 Peter 4:11 (ESV) – whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever
serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in
everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and
dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 4:11 (NLT2) – Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God
himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all
the strength and energy that God supplies. Then everything you do will bring glory to
God through Jesus Christ. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

Glorified –

Matthew 5:16 (NRSV) – In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they
may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

John 15:8 (ESV) – By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove
to be my disciples.

Romans 15:5-6 (ESV) – May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to
live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you
may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

4. You must USE the GIFT God has given you to SERVE so you will one day
hear The Lord say “WELL DONE”.

1 Peter 4:11 (ESV) – whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever
serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in
everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and
dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Matthew 25:21 (ESV) – His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.
You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your
master.’

Matthew 25:21 (NLT2) – The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful
servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many
more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’

Matthew 24:45-47 (ESV) – “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master
has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? 46 Blessed is
that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 47 Truly, I say to you,
he will set him over all his possessions.”

Servant –

L.I.F.E. Group Questions
1. What job in society bests epitomizes what it means to be a servant? Explain
2. In your opinion, what best distinguishes Christians from non-Christians?
3. How does Peter say you are to use your gifts? (1 Peter 4:10)
4. How are you to speak and serve? (1 Peter 4:11)
5. What goal does Peter want you to reach with all you do? (1 Peter 4:11)
6. Do you think it’s easy or difficult to serve others? Explain
7. What gift has God given you that you could use to serve others?
8. How important is it to know your serving is to be done in the power of God?
Explain
9. How does knowing your serving is to always bring glory to God affect what you
do in serving and why you serve?
10. How important is it to you to know God sees and knows all the serving you do?
Explain
11. What are some things you can do to make sure your serving is always a
celebration of God?
12. During this week in what simple ways can you use your gift to serve others to
show that you live by a unique set of priorities?

Colossians 3:12 (NLT2) – Since God chose you to be the holy people he
loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness,
humility, gentleness, and patience.

Colossians 3:13 (NLT2) – Make allowance for each other’s faults, and
forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you
must forgive others.

1. You are commanded to forgive others because YOU have
already been FORGIVEN by GOD.

Ephesians 4:32 (ESV) – Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving
one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

2, You are commanded to forgive others because FORGIVING
people makes you more like GOD.

Luke 6:35-36 (ESV) – But love your enemies, and do good, and lend,
expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be
sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. 36 Be
merciful, even as your Father is merciful.

3. You are commanded to forgive others so your FELLOWSHIP
with God can be RIGHT.

Mark 11:25 (ESV) – And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have
anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may
forgive you your trespasses.”

4. You are commanded to forgive others so that when you need to
be FORGIVEN by someone else you are better positioned to get what
you need from THEM.

Luke 6:37-38 (ESV) – “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn
not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38
give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken
together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you
use it will be measured back to you.”

5. You are expected to forgive others because The LORD said SO.

Luke 17:3-4 (ESV) – Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins,
rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, 4 and if he sins against you
seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you
must forgive him.”

A. THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING FORGIVEN

B. THE EXAMPLE OF HOW TO FORGIVE

C. THE ENABLEMENT TO FORGIVE

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. What’s an example of someone being given an “impossible” task that
they were able to accomplish?
2. When was the last time you were asked by someone to do something
that was very difficult? Explain
3. Why do you think you’re challenged, as a Christ-follower, to forgive
others?
4. What role does forgiving others play in showing the love of God to
others?
5. How does knowing you’ve been forgiven by God help you to forgive
others?
6. What role does prayer play in helping you forgive others? Explain
7. What role do you need to allow the Holy Spirit to play in helping you
forgive others? Explain
8. How does forgiving others testify to the goodness of God and bring
glory to Him?
9. How does knowing your walk with God is dependent upon you
forgiving others help you to forgive others?
10. WHO DO YOU NEED TO FORGIVE THAT YOU STILL HAVEN’T
FORGIVEN? WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?

Responsive Reading – Ephesians 4:25-32 (NLT2) –

Leader: 25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are
all parts of the same body.

Congregation: 26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the
sun go down while you are still angry,

Leader: 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

Congregation: 28 If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands
for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need.

Leader: 29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be
good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those
who hear them.

Congregation: 30 And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way
you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that
you will be saved on the day of redemption.

Leader: 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander,
as well as all types of evil behavior.

Everyone: 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one
another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

WORD CLOUD QUESTION:

Q – WHEN YOU THINK BACK OVER HISTORY, WHO DO YOU THINK
WOULD BE THE HARDEST PERSON EVER TO FORGIVE?

Colossians 3:12 (NLT2) – Since God chose you to be the holy people he
loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness,
humility, gentleness, and patience.

1. You must LEARN how to BEAR with the FAULTS of OTHERS.

Colossians 3:13 (ESV) – bearing with one another and, if one has a
complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven
you, so you also must forgive.

Colossians 3:13 (NLT2) – Make allowance for each other’s faults, and
forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you
must forgive others.

Bearing with –

Romans 15:1 (NRSV) – We who are strong ought to put up with the
failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

Galatians 6:2 (ESV) – Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of
Christ.

Ephesians 4:1-2 (NLT2) – Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg
you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God.
2 Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making
allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.

2. You must LEARN what it means to forgive OTHERS.

Colossians 3:13 (ESV) – bearing with one another and, if one has a
complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven
you, so you also must forgive.

Colossians 3:13 (NLT2) – Make allowance for each other’s faults, and
forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you
must forgive others.

Forgiving –

FORGIVENESS MEANS:

A. YOU GIVE UP THE RIGHT TO RETALIATE

Romans 12:19 (ESV) – Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to
the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the
Lord.”

PLAY STAR TREK VIDEO FROM THE WRATH OF KHAN
HERE AT MY SIGNAL

B. YOU GIVE UP THE BURDEN OF CARRYING YOUR PAST
PAIN SO YOU CAN WALK UNBURDENED IN YOUR PRESENT AND
FUTURE.

TWO QUESTIONS ABOUT FORGIVENESS.

– DOES FORGIVENESS REQUIRE ME TO RESTORE THAT
PERSON TO A PLACE OF VIOLATED TRUST?

– DOES FORGIVENESS REQUIRE YOU TO FORGET?

Philippians 3:13-14 (NLT2) – No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not
achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking
forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and
receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling
us.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. When you think back over history, who do you think is the hardest
person ever to forgive? Explain
2. Who is the hardest person for you to forgive? Explain
3. Is there anything that someone can do to you that you think is
unforgiveable?
4. How important is it for you to learn how to bear with the faults of
others?
5. What does it mean to forgive others?
6. Is it easy or difficult to give up the right to retaliate when someone
has done you wrong? Explain
7. How do you think carrying the burden of pain from your past can keep
you from fulfilling your God-given potential.
8. Does forgiveness require you to restore a person to previous position
of trust once that trust has been violated?
9. How can you “forget” what has happened to you in the past to the
point that it no longer holds you hostage?
10. This week what can you do to move towards forgive someone,
regardless of whether or not they ask for?

Responsive Reading – 1 John 3:13-18 (ESV)

Leader: 13 Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.

Congregation: 14 We know that we have passed out of death into life,
because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.

Leader: 15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know
that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.

Congregation: 16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and
we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers.

Leader: 17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in
need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?

Everyone: 18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in
truth.

How To LOVE One ANOTHER, Pt. 1

1. You need to realize GOD wants your LOVE to be REAL.

Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

1 Timothy 1:5 (ESV) – The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and
a good conscience and a sincere faith.

1 Peter 1:22-23 (ESV) – Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a
sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have
been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and
abiding word of God;

1 John 3:18 (NLT2) – Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us
show the truth by our actions.

How To LOVE One ANOTHER, Pt. 2

1. You need to realize GOD wants your LOVE to be LIVED.

A. Your love is LIVED when it hates EVIL.

Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

Abhor –

1 Thessalonians 5:22 (ESV) – Abstain from every form of evil.

Psalm 34:14 (ESV) –Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

Psalm 97:10 (ESV) – O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his
saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.

B. Your love is LIVED when it is COMMITTED to what is GOOD.

Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

Hold fast –

Luke 6:35 (ESV) – But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in
return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is
kind to the ungrateful and the evil.

Galatians 6:10 (ESV) – So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone,
and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Hebrews 13:16 (ESV) – Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for
such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

C. Your love is LIVED when it is SHOWN to others.

Romans 12:10 (ESV) – Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in
showing honor.

Romans 12:10 (NLT2) – Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in
honoring each other.

Brotherly affection –

John 13:34-35 (ESV) – A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another:
just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know
that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 John 3:14 (ESV) – We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we
love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.

D. Your love is LIVED when it intentionally HONORS others.

Romans 12:10 (ESV) – Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in
showing honor.

Romans 12:10 (NLT2) – Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in
honoring each other.

Outdo –

Honor –

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV) – Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility
count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own
interests, but also to the interests of others.

1 Corinthians 10:24 (ESV) – Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his
neighbor.

1 Corinthians 10:32-33 (ESV) – Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church
of God, 33 just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own
advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.

Galatians 6:10 (ESV) – So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone,
and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Who do you know who’s known to have problems getting along with other
people?
2. What advice would you give to someone who wanted some practical wisdom on
how to get along with others?
3. What’s the difference between real love and fake love?
4. What, or who, tests and challenges how real your love is? Explain
5. What does the Bible say we as believers should hate? (Rom. 12:9)
6. Is there a difference between hating evil and hating evil people? Explain
7. In what ways can you honor someone more than yourself?
8. Is it easy or difficult to treat others as more important than yourself? Explain
9. What’s the biggest obstacle to you loving another believer?
4
10. What’s the biggest obstacle to another believer loving you?

Responsive Reading – John 15:12-17 (ESV)

Leader: 12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

Congregation: 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for
his friends.

Leader: 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you.

Congregation: 15 No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what
his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my
Father I have made known to you.

Leader: 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should
go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in
my name, he may give it to you.

Everyone: 17 These things I command you, so that you will love one another.

1. You need to realize GOD wants your LOVE to be REAL.
Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Love –

Genuine –

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

1 Timothy 1:5 (ESV) – The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and
a good conscience and a sincere faith.

1 Peter 1:22-23 (ESV) – Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a
sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart, 23 since you have
been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and
abiding word of God;

1 John 3:18 (NLT2) – Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us
show the truth by our actions.

2. You need to realize GOD wants your LOVE to be LIVED.

A. Your love is REAL when it hates EVIL.
Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

Abhor –

1 Thessalonians 5:22 (ESV) – Abstain from every form of evil.

Psalm 34:14 (ESV) –Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

Psalm 97:10 (ESV) – O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his
saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.

B. Your love is REAL when it is COMMITTED to what is GOOD.

Romans 12:9 (ESV) – Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is
good.

Romans 12:9 (NLT2) – Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is
wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

Hold fast –

Luke 6:35 (ESV) – But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in
return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is
kind to the ungrateful and the evil.

Galatians 6:10 (ESV) – So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone,
and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Hebrews 13:16 (ESV) – Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for
such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

C. Your love is REAL when it is SHOWN to others.

Romans 12:10 (ESV) – Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in
showing honor.

Romans 12:10 (NLT2) – Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in
honoring each other.

Brotherly affection –

John 13:34-35 (ESV) – A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another:
just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know
that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 John 3:14 (ESV) – We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we
love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.

D. Your love is REAL when it intentionally HONORS others.

Romans 12:10 (ESV) – Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in
showing honor.

Romans 12:10 (NLT2) – Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in
honoring each other.

Outdo –

Honor –

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV) – Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility
count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own
interests, but also to the interests of others.

1 Corinthians 10:24 (ESV) – Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his
neighbor.

1 Corinthians 10:32-33 (ESV) – Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church
of God, 33 just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own
advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.

Galatians 6:10 (ESV) – So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone,
and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. Who do you know who’s known to have problems getting along with other
people?
2. What advice would you give to someone who wanted some practical wisdom on
how to get along with others?
3. What’s the difference between real love and fake love?
4. What, or who, tests and challenges how real your love is? Explain
5. What does the Bible say we as believers should hate? (Rom. 12:9)
6. Is there a difference between hating evil and hating evil people? Explain
7. In what ways can you honor someone more than yourself?
8. Is it easy or difficult to treat others as more important than yourself? Explain
9. What’s the biggest obstacle to you loving another believer?
10. What’s the biggest obstacle to another believer loving you?

Responsive Reading: Psalm 118:1-9 (ESV)

Leader: 1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his
steadfast love endures forever!

Congregation: 2 Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures
forever.”

Leader: 3 Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love
endures forever.”

Congregation: 4 Let those who fear the LORD say, “His
steadfast love endures forever.”

Leader: 5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD
answered me and set me free.

Congregation: 6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What
can man do to me?

Everyone: 7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in
triumph on those who hate me.

1. J.K. Rowling

She had just gotten a divorce, was on government aid, and could barely
afford to feed her baby in 1994. She wrote a children’s book that she
thought was good, but she was so poor she couldn’t afford a computer or
even the cost of photocopying the 90,000 word novel, so she manually
typed out each version to send to the publishers. It was rejected dozens of
time until finally Bloomsbury, a small London publisher, gave it a second
chance after the CEO’s eight year-old daughter fell in love with it. She was
broke just three years before the first of her books was published, and now
she is the best selling living author in Great Britain, worth over 820 million
British pounds or over $1 billion US dollars. The name of the first book –
Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone. Her name is J.K. Rowling.

2. Tyler Perry

He had a rough childhood. He was physically and sexually abused growing
up, got kicked out of high school, and tried to commit suicide twice—once
as a preteen and again at 22. At 23 he moved to Atlanta and took up odd
jobs as he started working on his stage career.

In 1992 he wrote, produced, and starred in his first theater production, I
Know I’ve Been Changed, somewhat informed by his difficult upbringing.
Perry put all his savings into the show and it failed miserably; the run lasted
just one weekend and only 30 people came to watch. He kept up with the
production, working more odd jobs and often slept in his car to get by. Six
years later, Perry finally broke through when, on its seventh run, the show
became a success. He’s since gone on to have an extremely successful
career as a director, writer, and actor. In fact, he was
named Forbes’ highest paid man in entertainment in 2011 and today is
worth over 1 billion dollars. His name, Tyler Perry.

3. Sylvester Stallone

Born in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, complications his
mother suffered during labor forced her obstetricians to use two pairs of
forceps during his birth; misuse of these accidentally severed a nerve and
caused paralysis in parts of his face. As a result, the lower left side of his
face is paralyzed – including parts of his lip, tongue, and chin – an accident
which has given him his snarling look and slightly slurred speech.
By all accounts, he also had a difficult childhood. His parents had a
volatile relationship and fought all the time. They eventually got divorced.
So, after living for a number of years in the Washington, D.C. area, he
moved to Philadelphia to live with his mother and her second husband.
He took on a number of odd jobs during these days to pay the bill,
including working in the cleanup crew for the lion’s cages at the Central
Park Zoo.

After several small roles, he began writing a screenplay that would
change his life forever. In 1976 his life would make a dramatic change.
The film he wrote and starred in was nominated for 10 Oscars, including
two for him for acting and writing. He wrote and directed two sequels in
the ensuing years, and went on to earn critical praise for his
performances 2 other movies.

Steps of Philadelphia Art Museum named after him. His credits include the
Rocky series, the Rambo series, Judge Dredd, Get Carter and His name –
Sylvester Stallone

4. Shania Twain

Her career began more out of necessity than raw ambition. Her parents
divorced when she was two, and she rarely saw her father. Her mom and
stepfather, to whom she grew close, often couldn’t make enough to get by,
so she started singing in bars to make extra money when she was just
eight years old.

She recalls her mother waking her up at all hours to get up and perform.
Sadly, when she was 21, her mother and stepfather were killed in a headon
car accident with a logging truck on the highway. She put her career on
hold to step in and take care of her three younger siblings (who were in
their teens at the time). She sang in resorts and put off going after big-time
stardom until her sister and brothers were old enough to care for
themselves. Only once her youngest brother graduated high school did she
feel OK heading down to Nashville to pursue her career.

She has sold over 100 million records, making her the best-selling
female artist in country music history and one of the best-selling
music artists of all time. Her name is Shania Twain

Ask yourself which helps more — having advantages or

How To Get PAST Your PAST, Pt. 3

1. You must take RESPONSIBILITY and DO all you can to GROW
and fulfill God’s purpose for your life. (14)

Philippians 3:13-14 (ESV) – Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it
my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining
forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of
the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 3:14 (NKJV) – I press toward the goal for the prize of the
upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

PRESS –

Romans 8:29 (MSG) – God knew what he was doing from the very
beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love
him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the
line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our
lives there in him.

Ephesians 4:13-15 (NLT2) – This will continue until we all come to such
unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the
Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 14 Then we
will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown
about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when
people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 15 Instead,
we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like
Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.

2. You must stay FOCUSED and keep THINKING and DOING what
will keep you growing in spiritual maturity (15-16)

Philippians 3:15-16 (ESV) – Let those of us who are mature think this
way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.
16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.

Philippians 3:15-16 (NLT2) – Let all who are spiritually mature agree on
these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain
to you. 16 But we must hold on to the progress we have already made.

Philippians 3:15-16 (MSG) – So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of
us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else
in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred
vision—you’ll see it yet! 16 Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it.

Romans 8:6 (NLT) – So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to
death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.

Galatians 5:16 (NLT) – So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then
you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.

Philippians 4:8-9 (ESV) – Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is
honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever
is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of
praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received
and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace
will be with you.

1 John 2:4-6 (NLT2) – If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey
God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. 5
But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him.

That is how we know we are living in him. 6 Those who say they live in God
should live their lives as Jesus did.

L.I.F.E. Group Questions

1. What are some things children have to do and experience to grow
physically?
2. When did you take responsibility for your own spiritual growth and
development?
3. What is God’s purpose for your life?
4. What are some things the enemy uses to distract you from focusing
on what it takes to fulfill God’s purpose for your life?
5. Why’s it important to know you are responsible for, and can choose to
grow spiritually?
6. How has God used something that was challenging to you in your
past to make you stronger, better and wiser?
7. How does knowing God can do something better for you in your
future help you focus on what’s in front of you instead of what’s behind
you? Explain
8. What do you need to do specifically to help fulfill God’s purpose for
your life?
9. How do you stay focused on God’s purpose for your life when
distractions and difficulties come your way?
10. What do you need to do to maintain the spiritual progress you’ve
already made in your life and to continue making spiritual progress in your
life?

Responsive Reading – Philippians 3:12-16 (ESV)
Leader: Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to
make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.

Congregation: Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I
do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,

Leader: I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ
Jesus.

Congregation: Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you
think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.

Everyone: Only let us hold true to what we have attained.

1. You need to realize you are still a WORK in PROGRESS, even after you
accepted Jesus as your Savior (v. 12, 13a)

Philippians 3:12-13 (ESV) – Not that I have already obtained this or am already
perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own.
13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting
what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,

Obtained –

Perfect –

Philippians 3:12 (MSG) – I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made.
But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out
for me.

Romans 7:18-19 (ESV) – For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my
flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. 19 For I
do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing.

Ephesians 3:8 (ESV) – To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace
was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,

2. You must CHOOSE to let go of ANYTHING in your PAST that will keep you
from doing your best in the PRESENT (13b)
Philippians 3:13 (ESV) – Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But
one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,

Philippians 3:13-14 (MSG) – Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count
myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning
us onward—to Jesus. 14 I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.

Forgetting –

A. Don’t allow what you HAVEN’T done in the past to keep you from doing
what God wants you to do right now!

B. Don’t allow the BAD you’ve done in the past to keep you from doing what
God wants you to do right now!

C. Don’t allow the GOOD you’ve done in the past to keep you from doing
what God wants you to do right now!

2 Corinthians 3:5 (ESV) – Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as
coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God,

3. You must CHOOSE to SHIFT your FOCUS to what’s in front of you (13c)

Philippians 3:13 (ESV) – Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But
one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead,

Philippians 3:13-14 (NKJV) – Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but
one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those
things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God
in Christ Jesus.

Reaching –

1 Peter 1:13-15 (ESV) – Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being soberminded,
set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of
Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your
former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your
conduct,

Study Questions

1. Do you think people find it easier to remember the negative or positive things
from their past? Explain
2. When it comes to your spiritual life, what have you been working on the longest?
3. Why is it important to realize that, even as a Christian, you are still a work in
progress?
4. What area of your life do you need to work on the most to continue growing in
spiritual maturity?
5. How does the devil use your past to try and hinder you in your spiritual growth?
6. Is it more difficult to become spiritually mature or stay spiritually mature? Explain
7. What do you need to do to not be held back by things from your past?
8. How do you shift your focus from what you’ve done in the past to what’s in front
of you in your present?
9. What’s the most difficult thing you’ve had to overcome in the pandemic in order
to jumpstart your spiritual growth?
10. What do you need to do to renew your focus on doing what God has called you
to do?

SCRIPTURE READING

Luke 19:1-10 (ESV) – He entered Jericho and was
passing through. 2 And behold, there was a man named
Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3
And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on
account of the crowd he could not, because he was small
in stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a
sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that
way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up
and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I
must stay at your house today.” 6 So he hurried and came
down and received him joyfully. 7 And when they saw it,
they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a
man who is a sinner.” 8 And Zacchaeus stood and said to
the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the
poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore
it fourfold.” 9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has
come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. 10
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”
1. You must be willing to IDENTIFY and SEEK what
you really need CHANGED in your life.

Luke 19:1-3 (ESV) – He entered Jericho and was passing
through. 2 And behold, there was a man named
Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3
And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on
account of the crowd he could not, because he was small
in stature.

2. You must DO whatever you NEED to do.

Luke 19:1-4 (ESV) – He entered Jericho and was passing
through. 2 And behold, there was a man named
Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. 3
And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on
account of the crowd he could not, because he was small
in stature. 4 So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a
sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that
way.

Scripture Reading:

Psalm 116:12-19 (ESV) – What shall I render to the LORD for all his
benefits to me? 13 I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of
the LORD, 14 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his
people. 5 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. 16 O
LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant.
You have loosed my bonds. 17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of
thanksgiving and call on the name of the LORD. 18 I will pay my vows to the
LORD in the presence of all his people, 19 in the courts of the house of the
LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

Psalm 145:9 (NLT) – The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all
his creation.

Matthew 5:45 (NLT) – In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in
heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on
the just and the unjust alike.

James 1:17 (ICB) – Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good
gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars. God does not change
like their shifting shadows.

John 3:27 (NLT) – John replied, “No one can receive anything unless God gives it from
heaven.

Romans 11:36a (NLT) – For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is
intended for his glory.

1 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT) – For what gives you the right to make such a judgment?
What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God,
why boast as though it were not a gift?

Psalm 50:10-12 (CEV) – Every animal in the forest belongs to me, and so do the cattle
on a thousand hills. 11 I know all the birds in the mountains, and every wild creature is
in my care. 12 If I were hungry, I wouldn’t tell you, because I own the world and
everything in it.

1. You must GIVE God your PERSON! (vv. 13, 16)

Psalm 116:12-16 (ESV) – What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits to me? 13
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the LORD, 14 I will pay my vows
to the LORD in the presence of all his people. 15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is
the death of his saints. 16 O LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of
your maidservant. You have loosed my bonds.

A. SALVATION (v. 13)

Psalm 116:13 (ESV) – I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the
LORD,

John 5:24 (NLT) – I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in
God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but
they have already passed from death into life.

B. SERVICE (v. 16)

Psalm 116:16 (ESV) – O LORD, I am your servant; I am your servant, the son of your
maidservant. You have loosed my bonds.

Mark 12:30 (NLT) – And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your
soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’

Romans 12:1-2 (NLT) – And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give
your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy
sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 2 Don’t
copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new
person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you,
which is good and pleasing and perfect.

2. You must GIVE God your POSSESSIONS! (vv. 14, 18-19a)

Psalm 116:14-19 (ESV) – I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his
people. 15 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. 16 O LORD, I am
your servant; I am your servant, the son of your maidservant. You have loosed my
bonds. 17 I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the
LORD. 18 I will pay my vows to the LORD in the presence of all his people, 19 in the
courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

Psalm 50:14 (NLT) – Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you
made to the Most High.

1 Chronicles 29:14, 16-17 (ESV) – “But who am I, and what is my people, that we
should be able thus to offer willingly? For all things come from you, and of your own
have we given you. . . . . 16 O LORD our God, all this abundance that we have
provided for building you a house for your holy name comes from your hand and is all
your own. 17 I know, my God, that you test the heart and have pleasure in uprightness.
In the uprightness of my heart I have freely offered all these things, and now I have
seen your people, who are present here, offering freely and joyously to you.

1 Corinthians 16:1-2 (NLT) – Now regarding your question about the money being
collected for God’s people in Jerusalem. You should follow the same procedure I gave
to the churches in Galatia. 2 On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a
portion of the money you have earned. Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect
it all at once.

2 Corinthians 8:9-12 (NLT) – You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he
could make you rich. 10 Here is my advice: It would be good for you to finish what you
started a year ago. Last year you were the first who wanted to give, and you were the
first to begin doing it. 11 Now you should finish what you started. Let the eagerness you
showed in the beginning be matched now by your giving. Give in proportion to what
you have. 12 Whatever you give is acceptable if you give it eagerly. And give according
to what you have, not what you don’t have.

3. You must GIVE God your PRAISE! (vv. 17, 19b)
Psalm 116:17 (ESV) – I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the
name of the LORD.

Thanksgiving –

Psalm 116:19 (ESV) – in the courts of the house of the LORD, in your midst, O
Jerusalem. Praise the LORD!

Praise –

Psalm 50:23 (CEV) – The sacrifice that honors me is a thankful heart. Obey me, and I,
your God, will show my power to save.

Hosea 14:2 (CEV) – Return to the LORD and say, “Please forgive our sins. Accept our
good sacrifices of praise instead of bulls.”

Jonah 2:9 (NLT) – But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill
all my vows. For my salvation comes from the LORD alone.

Hebrews 13:15 (NCV) – So through Jesus let us always offer to God our sacrifice of
praise, coming from lips that speak his name.

Questions to Consider

1. What are some of the ways people express their gratitude to those who have
been kind to them?
2. What should be your response when you remember God’s goodness to you in
the past?
3. What can you learn about thankfulness from the psalmist’s attitudes and actions?
4. How can you do a better job giving your PERSON to God?
5. What area of your life do you find the most difficult for you to present to the Lord?
6. How can you develop an attitude of service?
7. How can you do a better job giving your POSSESSIONS to God?
8. What vow have you made to the Lord that you need to fulfill and make good on?
9. How can you do a better job giving your PRAISE to God IN CHURCH?
10. How can you do a better job giving your PRAISE to God IN THE WORLD?