Equipped Workshop hosted by Lehman Avenue church of Christ

"Jesus is Lord" by Dan Winkler

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 6:00PM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Dan Winkler
 
 
John 20 -
The Resurrection
20 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. 2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” 3 So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. 4 Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5 And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, 7 and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; 9 for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. 10 Then the disciples went back to their homes.
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
11 But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. 12 And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. 13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” 14 Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
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.” 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.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld.”
Jesus and Thomas
24 Now Thomas, one of the twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into his side, I will never believe.”
26 Eight days later, his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
The Purpose of This Book
30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
 
 
Jesus Is Lord
Rom 1:3, 4 -raised from the dead
Jn 21 – the resurrection is the most consequential event in the history of the world. With this He IS the son of God and the Christ and better be your Lord.
Lord – found 41 times in John, 14 of them are in Ch 20-21
Goal in reading the passage Jn 20:1-30 > Pay particular attn to the word(s) SEE, SEEN, SAW
Blecco – see with the eyes
Theoreo – connect the dots/question
Orao – see with the mind’s eye “aha” or lightbulb moment
               Jn 20:1 – see with the eyes
               Jn 20:5 – see with the eyes
               Jn 20:8 – AHA – now he understood he must rise
               Jn 20:12 – connect the dots
               Jn 20:14 – connect the dots
               Jn 20:18 – AHA
               Jn 20:25 – AHA
               Jn 20:29 - AHA
2 Observations
Proof of the resurrection
Power of the resurrection
Proof of the Resurrection
4 lines of evidence at the tomb
At the tomb
               The graves stone 20:1-2, a stone would be extremely large , 20 men would not have been able to move it.  It had been TAKEN AWAY. Matt, Mark, and Luke all say rolled way while John says “taken” or carried. Explain the movement of the stone without a miracle. The tomb was also sealed and two Roman guards were placed.
The Grave Clothes
V5 the linen cloth
V7 Face covering was folded
The Body
There wasn’t one
Graves unspoken message
The AHA
V10 they went back to their homes. Picture John going home and telling Jesus’ mother (Acts 1) Mom and former unbelieving brothers are there.
Evidence away from the tomb. (12) post resurrection appearances – 4 are in Jn 20-21  (20:16, 20:19-23, 20:26-29, 21:1-25)
Power of the Resurrection in our lives today
               1Pet 1:3 – to be with Jesus in Heaven, b/c of resurrection you and I can look forward with confidence that you will go to Heaven. He is your redeemer and his blood is effective b/c he was raised from the dead.
               1Pet 3:20-21 – baptism saves us b/c of the resurrection of Jesus. Forgiveness happens in the heart of God and in His forgiveness you are NEW…because of the resurrection.
 
Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1iAf7hQ-MQ
 
Duration 49:55

Singing Workshop by Andy Baker

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 3:00PM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Andy Baker
 
Throughout the entire Equipped Workshop, Andy Baker lead singing. On this last day of the workshop, Andy gives a class for song leaders.
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vCBL-3oFIfc
 
Duration 2:14:23
 

"Behold the Man" by Scott Cain

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 10:30AM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Scott Cain
 
John 18-19 -
Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus
18 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. 2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5 They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” 9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” 10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant and cut off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”
Jesus Faces Annas and Caiaphas
12 So the band of soldiers and their captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound him. 13 First they led him to Annas, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, who was high priest that year. 14 It was Caiaphas who had advised the Jews that it would be expedient that one man should die for the people.
Peter Denies Jesus
15 Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Since that disciple was known to the high priest, he entered with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest, 16 but Peter stood outside at the door. So the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the servant girl who kept watch at the door, and brought Peter in. 17 The servant girl at the door said to Peter, “You also are not one of this man's disciples, are you?” He said, “I am not.” 18 Now the servants and officers had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold, and they were standing and warming themselves. Peter also was with them, standing and warming himself.
The High Priest Questions Jesus
19 The high priest then questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. 20 Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world. I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together. I have said nothing in secret. 21 Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me what I said to them; they know what I said.” 22 When he had said these things, one of the officers standing by struck Jesus with his hand, saying, “Is that how you answer the high priest?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If what I said is wrong, bear witness about the wrong; but if what I said is right, why do you strike me?” 24 Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.
Peter Denies Jesus Again
25 Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. So they said to him, “You also are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not.” 26 One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, “Did I not see you in the garden with him?” 27 Peter again denied it, and at once a rooster crowed.
Jesus Before Pilate
28 Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the governor's headquarters. It was early morning. They themselves did not enter the governor's headquarters, so that they would not be defiled, but could eat the Passover. 29 So Pilate went outside to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” 30 They answered him, “If this man were not doing evil, we would not have delivered him over to you.” 31 Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” The Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death.” 32 This was to fulfill the word that Jesus had spoken to show by what kind of death he was going to die.
My Kingdom Is Not of This World
33 So Pilate entered his headquarters again and called Jesus and said to him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered, “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “Am I a Jew? Your own nation and the chief priests have delivered you over to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.” 37 Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” 38 Pilate said to him, “What is truth?”
After he had said this, he went back outside to the Jews and told them, “I find no guilt in him. 39 But you have a custom that I should release one man for you at the Passover. So do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 40 They cried out again, “Not this man, but Barabbas!” Now Barabbas was a robber.
Jesus Delivered to Be Crucified
19 Then Pilate took Jesus and flogged him. 2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head and arrayed him in a purple robe. 3 They came up to him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and struck him with their hands. 4 Pilate went out again and said to them, “See, I am bringing him out to you that you may know that I find no guilt in him.” 5 So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” 6 When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, “Crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no guilt in him.” 7 The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die because he has made himself the Son of God.” 8 When Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid. 9 He entered his headquarters again and said to Jesus, “Where are you from?” But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 So Pilate said to him, “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?” 11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin.”
12 From then on Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out, “If you release this man, you are not Caesar's friend. Everyone who makes himself a king opposes Caesar.” 13 So when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Stone Pavement, and in Aramaic Gabbatha. 14 Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover. It was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews, “Behold your King!” 15 They cried out, “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.” 16 So he delivered him over to them to be crucified.
The Crucifixion
So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified him, and with him two others, one on either side, and Jesus between them. 19 Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” 20 Many of the Jews read this inscription, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and it was written in Aramaic, in Latin, and in Greek. 21 So the chief priests of the Jews said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but rather, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.’” 22 Pilate answered, “What I have written I have written.”
23 When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his garments and divided them into four parts, one part for each soldier; also his tunic. But the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom, 24 so they said to one another, “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfill the Scripture which says,
“They divided my garments among them,    and for my clothing they cast lots.”
So the soldiers did these things, 25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
The Death of Jesus
28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.
Jesus' Side Is Pierced
31 Since it was the day of Preparation, and so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken away. 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him. 33 But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. 35 He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe. 36 For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.”
Jesus Is Buried
38 After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. 39 Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. 40 So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. 41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. 42 So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
 
"Behold the Man"
3 Perspectives
Those immediately involved
The hasty heresy
The aged apostle - John writes from an older man's perspective.
Behold the man bound - (John 18:1-12)
John recorded eyewitness evidence.
Jesus was betrayed by one of his own.
Jesus was bold - He didn't run and hide.
Jesus was benevolent.
Behold the man blamed - (John 18:13-27)
Jesus was unfairly scrutinized.
Jesus was shunned by Peter.
Jesus was sound - maintained presence of mind through it all.
Behold the man blameless - (John 18:28-40)
Jesus was accused
Jesus has authority
Jesus was acquitted - He was declared innocent but this was all about politics.
Behold the man beaten - (John 19:1-16)
Humiliation
Humanity
Humiltiy
Behold the man bleeding - (John 19:1-16)
He was loathed.
He was learing
He was loved. - John 15:13.
Behold the man buried - (John 19:1-16)
Murdered
Mortality
Momentary - John 22 - He was risen.
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUGHlFvRa18
 
Duration 45:57

"The Jesus Who Welcomes You Home" by Glen Hitchcock

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 9:30AM MPR 1 Speaker
 
Speaker: Glen Hitchcock
 
The Jesus Who Welcomes You Home - John 21:9-19
Unique Insights
There are unique insights into the thinking of the disciples in that unusual period between the resurrection and establishment of the church in Acts.
No one, not even the disciples of Jesus, understood what God had accomplished in Jesus’ death and resurrection.
There was a period of 50 days when God’s greatest success seemed a failure from the human viewpoint.
Passover and the days of unleavened bread being completed, the disciples had no need to stay in Jerusalem – they went home.
GOOD NEWS, JESUS WELCOMES YOU HOME!
JESUS WELCOMES US WHEN
Overtaken By Separation & Loneliness, 1-2.
Our Best Efforts Result In Emptiness, 3-5.
Our Vision Is Not Always Clear, 5-14.
Our Failure Is Undeniable, 15-19.
When Overtaken by Separation & Loneliness, 1-2.
The disciples were greatly discouraged after the crucifixion, and despite several post-resurrection appearances there seemed to be lingering doubts among some.
The anxiety of separation & loneliness did not force them to quit.
They came in Galilee in obedience to Jesus’s command (Matt. 28:10)… “to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.”
Question? Do You Think the Disciples Were Being Tested?
When Our Best Efforts Result In Emptiness, 3-4
These men were fishermen, and perhaps they needed food and money to provide for their living expenses. Their night labors apart from Jesus proved to be unproductive.
Truth: “Until one can clearly see Jesus, our labors are in vain” (John 15:4-5).
Jesus Welcomes The Weary and Heavy Laden, (Matt. 11:28-30) in contrast to the Wicked and Lazy (Prov. 13:4; Matt. 25:26).
When Our Vision is Unclear, 5-13
The disciples come in before dawn with no fish, Jesus--whom they do not recognize--directs them to cast on the right side - they catch 153 large fish.
The catch is large enough to make John identify the Man on the shore, and he tells Peter, v-7.
Peter, dressed in his undergarments alone, jumps in and immediately heads to shore, v-7.
There, Jesus has cooked a meal for them and welcomes them to break their fast and eat, v-12.
These 7 disciples know who Jesus is; the dawn breaks, and they eat breakfast with Jesus, vs. 12-13.
When Failure is Undeniable, 15-19
“Character is built on the debris of our despair.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Painful Conversation, 15-19
Perfecting Of Character
Present Concern
Plan Of Christ  
Four Basic Realities Concerning Failure
Decisive. There are a hundred ways in which one can be declared a failure, but few in which one can be called a success.
Distortive. A feeling of failure in one area of endeavor often distorts meaning in all other areas.
Depressive. Societal stress on the significance of failure is so powerful that any failure produces a sense of defeatism which can lead one to unquestionably define one’s whole life as a failure.
Diminishing. The common result of failure in any endeavor is the disconnect of personal initiative, drive, self-confidence, and determination.
PAINFUL CONVERSATION, 15-19
To appreciate the awkwardness and painfulness of the moment for Peter, remember a few facts:
The night of the betrayal Peter had emphatically declared that even if everyone else deserted Jesus, he would not desert Jesus. He then did desert Jesus at the arrest.
Later, as he returned to the Jewish proceedings, 3 times he denied Jesus. Luke 22:61 states that upon the third denial that Jesus looked at him, he remembered Jesus' prediction, and he went into the night weeping bitterly.
Luke 24:34 states that the Lord soon after the resurrection appeared to Peter, but no information is given regarding this appearance and what was said.
The first recorded interaction between the risen Jesus and Peter, following the resurrection, is John 21.
PAINFUL CONVERSATION
1.On the betrayal night, Peter before all the disciples had emphatically declared that he would not desert Jesus. In John 21, before 6 of those same disciples, Jesus begins to question Peter concerning his devotion.
2.Three times Peter denied the Lord; three times the Lord now asks Peter if Peter loves Him.
Can you sense the pain, and the awkwardness Peter must have felt?
Jesus is not being cruel; Jesus knows that Peter must find his open commitment and resolve again.
Peter must face what he has done, and he must face how he feels about Jesus!
Jesus in essence, asked Peter, “Peter, where are you in OUR relationship?” (He made Peter state where he was).
PERFECTING OF CHARACTER
HERE IS A PROCESS RARELY EVIDENCED BY SOCIETY
While Peter is fishing in the debris of failure and despair, Jesus is pruning his character for faithfulness and devotion!
Jesus is totally unconcerned about what Peter has done; Jesus is only concerned about where Peter is in his feelings for and devotion to Jesus!
Jesus did not question Peter about the denial.
He did not ask him if he had learned his lesson.
He did not ask him how he felt about what he had done
He did not ask for some statement of repentance.
He did not lecture Peter on what he had done.
Jesus did not say, “Peter, I told you so.”
He did not tell Peter that from now on, you better believe anything I say!
He did not dwell on how weak Peter was or how badly it hurt to hear Peter’s denials.
Jesus wanted to know one thing and one thing alone — “Peter, do you love me?”
How it hurts for someone you have loved dearly to have reason to question your love!
How it must have hurt for Jesus to even feel the need to ask.
Lesson to remember, “We are never defeated unless we give up on God.” (Ronald Reagan). Jesus didn’t give up on Peter & Peter didn’t on God!
Jesus had the same job for Peter to do in John 21 that He had for Peter before that last night. Jesus planned on using Peter to do the work He originally committed to Peter.
The Fact That Peter Had Failed Had No Bearing On Jesus’ Plans For Peter.
If Peter still loved Jesus, his failure had changed nothing.
Jesus was completely unconcerned about past failure; he was concerned only about future service and unselfishness. “A series of failures may culminate in the best possible result.” (Gisela Richter)
Peter’s failures in his denials had not destroyed his ability to accomplish the Lord’s purpose in his life.
Jesus wanted to make an apostle out of a man who had failed.
Jesus wanted to use this man who failed to preach the first gospel sermon to the Gentiles.
There was no reason for those divine plans not to come to pass if Peter still loved Jesus and was not ashamed to admit it publicly. For this to happen:
Peter had to accept his failure. He could not offer excuses for his failure.
He had to accept responsibility for his failure.
He had to put his failure in the past.
Peter had to accept forgiveness. He needed forgiveness for what he’d done.
He had to be open to the forgiveness and to welcome the forgiveness.
Peter had to accept the task the Lord wanted him to do. He could not let feelings of unworthiness keep him from doing the work.
He could not let feelings of embarrassment or shame keep him from it.
He had to believe he could do what the Lord wanted done.
Peter had to have enough faith and love to recover his commitment and devotion – and try!
PRESENT CONCERN
Peter Underscores A Truth We Need To Freely Admit.
It hurts to submit to the Lord’s use after we fail. Why? The realities of failure cause us to fish in our own despair! Satan feeds us the bait and we can’t get off the hook!
When we make a bad mistake, when we really blow it, it is much easier to hide; to build a big, defensive wall of elaborate excuses; or to pretend nothing really happened.
Everyone finds it humiliating to face unnecessary failure. We believe before the failure that we were better persons than that.[Fishing in our despair]
We were confident we were good enough people that we would not do something like that.
We had respect for ourselves. Then to make a mistake which we knew we should not make truly humiliates us.
In that humiliation, we feel like we ought to fade into the background rather than getting involved in God’s service.
IT IS HUMBLING TO FAIL
We are not as strong as we surely were. We cannot trust our own strength as much as we thought we could. [The first problem of Self, not sin]
We become keenly aware of OUR total dependence on the Lord.
It hurts to serve after failure because it is hard for us to take our eyes off the mistake.
Commitment after failure often does draw others attention. There will be some who are skeptical. Yet, no one will be as aware of our mistakes as we are.
THE PLAN OF CHRIST
Take Careful Note Of What He Did
Three times He asked Peter if Peter loved Him, and every time He asked Peter to do the work the Lord had planned for him. [This Pointed to the Future NOT the Failure]
Jesus had said, “Peter, if you love Me, I want you to do the work I have prepared for you.”
Loving Jesus means putting the failure behind and getting on with the Lord’s work. Learn from failure but move on to faithfulness – “Welcome” to the future.
The whole situation was so painful to Peter, he could not stand it. He confessed he loved Jesus, but that was not enough.
It was as though Peter was saying, “Lord, please don’t ask me anymore; You know me--in fact, You know all things, so You must know I love you!
The 3rd time grieved Peter so much he resorted to the oldest tactic of man; he asked, “What about him?” talking of John. Vs. 20-21.
Jesus reply in essence was this: “My plans for him are of not real concern to you.” - “Right now, he is not the issue,” vs. 22.
“I expect you to do what I know you can do,” v-22 “follow me”
A POWERFUL LESSON FOR US “WELCOME”
Our failures have no bearing on the Lord’s plans to use our lives if we have love enough for Him to recover from the failure.
For the Lord to achieve His will after our failure, We Must:
The Jesus Who “Welcomes” Us
We All Fail, Remember: Our failures do not mean an end to the Lord’s plans to make use of us!
Let us not be defined by our failures but by our faithful devotion to serve the Risen Savior Who Welcomes us!
The only time you can’t afford to fail is the very last time you try!
So quit taking Satan’s bait while making Jesus wait! Commit to the cause of Christ now! Matt. 11:28-30.
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JU_TWtlSDKc
 
Duration 41:04
 

Teen: "What Young People Bring to Jesus" by Vince Daugherty

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 9:30 MPR 4 Speaker
 
Speaker: Vince Daugherty
 
“What Young People Bring to Jesus”
 
Negative things teens bring to the table:
Pick and choose what to pay attention to in the Bible.
Teens like to have it their way.
Rebellion.
Teens like to be counter-cultural at times.
Drama.
Think they have it all figured out.
Shame.
Guilt.
Questions/doubts.
Hurts.
 
Need to remember that as you are growing up, you won’t be perfect and you will make mistakes, and that is okay!  Even people that we read about in the Bible made mistakes; they failed; they came up short.  Actually making mistakes, having guilt and shame can be good teachers in life.  Psalm 25:1-7.  Your brains aren’t even fully physically developed until age 25, so it’s inevitable - you will mess up, but you will get through it.  It’s not about falling down, but it’s about getting back up.  Read this when you mess up – Psalm 51.  David wrote this psalm after he messed up royally.  Admit when you make mistakes.  Learn from your mistakes.  
 
You don’t have to have it all figured out.  It’s better to ask questions to learn which can help strengthen your faith.  Remember doubting Thomas in John 20.  Jesus gave Thomas evidence.  Don’t put off asking questions.  If you let questions and doubts fester, then that little bit of questioning and doubt can cause your faith to suffer.
 
Teens have a lot going on.  Matthew 11:28-30.  Think about prayer and what it does.  I Peter 5:6-7.  Jesus cares for you.  
 
Positive things that teens bring to Christ:
Youth.
Energy.
Confidence.
Opportunities/possibilities.
Desire for belonging.
Responsible.
 
Ecclesiastes 11:9-10 and 12:1.  You are young and you need to rejoice in this.  Teens have many stresses in life, but it seems like as you get older, the stress can go up (even with good things).  So, rejoice in being young.
 
As a youth, you have opportunities and many possibilities.  Acts 2:17.  Young people typically have dreams, visions for their lives.  There are endless possibilities as to what you can do.
 
Even the most rebellious teens want to belong.  Ephesians 2:11-13.  At one time, you were without hope, apart from Christ, but with Christ - you have a built-in family.  Remember the times that you felt all alone, but in Christ, you are never alone.  Ephesians 2:19-22.  
 
What should we be working toward as youth?  1 Timothy 4:12.  Work toward consistency.  Sometimes older people look at the teens and just think they don’t have it all figured out - they are inconsistent.  Teens should show up anyway - be consistent, even if they mess up at times.  Don’t give anyone an excuse to look down on you.  Be an example.  
 
Philippians 4:8.  Seek out the good in the world and you will find good.  Think about the things that are lovely and praiseworthy.
 
2 Peter 1:5-7.  Add to your faith.  You aren’t just baptized and then that’s it.  Keep adding to your faith.  Continue to grow in your faith. 
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdlEMlF541I
 
Duration 41:28

"The Lord's Prayer" by Mike Vestal

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 9:30AM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker:  Mike Vestal
 
John 17 -
The High Priestly Prayer
17 When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, 2 since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. 3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. 4 I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. 5 And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.
6 “I have manifested your name to the people whom you gave me out of the world. Yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you. 8 For I have given them the words that you gave me, and they have received them and have come to know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. 9 I am praying for them. I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. 10 All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. 11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. 12 While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me. I have guarded them, and not one of them has been lost except the son of destruction, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. 13 But now I am coming to you, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. 14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.
20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
 
 
"The Lord's Prayer" - Best prayer ever prayed.
Jesus is praying - His hour had come - John 12:23-27; John 13:1, John 17:1
"Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?"
Prayer is how Jesus steered his life while he was on earth. Prayer is measured by its length, but its depth and breadth.
John 17:1-5 - Glory. The glory of God should be at the forefront of your prayers.
v6-12 - Security. To be kept by God. To keep God's word.
v12-19 - Sanctity. Holiness / godly character. - John 17:17.
v20-23 - Unity.
v24-26 - Eternity.
 
v1-5 - Jesus prays for himself
v6-19 - Jesus prays for the apostles.
v20-26 - Jesus prays for those who will believe the word.
 
The setting of the prayer - Jesus looked up.
He had been waiting for this.
He addresses God as his father - unique relationship.
John 17:3,4 - The Lord wrote his own epitaph. This verse is who Jesus is.
John 19:30 - "It is finished"
John 17:5; Gal 6:14-17; Gal 3:13; Eph 3:20-21; The church glorifies God in Jesus. Luke 24:26
Jesus prays for the apostles. Jesus told God that they have kept his word. Then he committed them to God's car.
Sanctity / Holiness: Heb 12:14; 2 Cor  7:1; Jesus prays that the apostles be sanctified and holy.
The world. "Isolation is not an option" and neither is accommodation.
We need to have a biblical theology of the engagement - a mission.
Our mission is to glorify God, to tell others and to strengthen others.
Jesus prays for those who would believe - (v20-26)
Jesus was praying for and thinking of us.
A healthy harmonious relationship with God is possible in Christ.
What brings people together.
A great and awesome God. - (v26)
The love within the Godhead is a love that's shared with us.
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2bv3d9JVz4
 
Duration 38:02

"The Coming of the Spirit" by Neal Pollard

April 21, 2024 - Sunday 8:00AM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Neal Pollard
 
John 14-16 -
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
14 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”
8 Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves.
12 “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.
18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. 19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. 20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” 22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” 23 Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father's who sent me.
25 “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. 27 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. 28 You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. 30 I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, 31 but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.
I Am the True Vine
15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 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. 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. 17 These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
The Hatred of the World
18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21 But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’
26 “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me. 27 And you also will bear witness, because you have been with me from the beginning.
16 “I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues. Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. 3 And they will do these things because they have not known the Father, nor me. 4 But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.
The Work of the Holy Spirit
“I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy
16 “A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me.” 17 So some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I am going to the Father’?” 18 So they were saying, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he is talking about.” 19 Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him, so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me’? 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice. You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. 21 When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. 22 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. 23 In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you. 24 Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.
I Have Overcome the World
25 “I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. 26 In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; 27 for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”
29 His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things and do not need anyone to question you; this is why we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 33 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.”
 
The Coming of the Spirit
The Spirit in John  "You are not alone"
Appellatives of the Spirit (like names)
Helper - advocate - mediator - Represents God to us not us to God.
Spirit of truth - John 15:26; 14:6;
Jesus makes himself the arbiter of truth. - John 1:14, 1:17, 8:45-46; Mark 13:11; 1 Corinthians 2:12
Holy Spirit. Isaiah 6:1-3 The Holy Spirit is our helper. He comforts, corrects and strengthens us as he personally abides in us. 2 Thess. 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2; John 17:17
Assistance of the Spirit
In their works - John 14:10-14; Col 1:23
through revelation - John 14:26, 16:13-15
through testifying
Convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgement - 2 Cor 5:21
Assurances of the Spirit - John 14:1, 18, 27, John 16:1, 16:33. Its not wrong to be afraid but when I'm afraid I should trust.He will be with you forever John 16:1; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:14-18;
The Holy spirit dwells in us. Romans 8
Because the Spirit of God is in us, it gives us identity and Help (26)
He will bring to you remembrance
John 14:26; Mark 13:11; 2 Peter 1:20-24; Acts 1:16; 1 Peter 1:11; John 14:26
He will declare the things which are to some. (15:26)
2 Thess. 2; 2 Peter 3; Rev 2:1-22
 
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TN2oz0vrEXg
 
Duration 40:59

"Faith is the Victory That Overcomes the World" by Hiram Kemp

April 20, 2024 - Saturday 7:00PM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Hiram Kemp
Based on inspired testimony (1 John 1:1-3)
Born out of a proper relationship to sin (1 John 1:6-2:2)
Obeys the commandments of God (1 John 2:3-5, 3:22, 5:2-3)
Brotherly love as a top priority (1 John 2:7-11)
Confidently waiting for final transformation (1 John 3:1-3)
Joyfully assured of eternal life (1 John 1:4, 5:13)
 
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLGuAnUrDQ0
 
Duration 40:12

John The Purpose: "The Reason John Wrote His Gospel" by Jeff Jenkins

April 20, 2024 - Saturday 6:30PM Auditorium Speaker
 
Speaker: Jeff Jenkins
John 20:30-31
 
John 1-11 Power of God
Love of God
 
7 miracles to highlight
Jesus turns water to wine
John 2:1
To show us the great power of our God
Jesus heals son of nobleman (John 4:54)
Bringing into the world a new life
John heals invalid man sick for 38 years (John 5:
Feeding of 5,000 (John 6
Only John records Jesus saying I am the bread of life.  I have fed your bodies and I can feed your souls
Jesus walks on water (John 6)
Even nature was subordinate to His rule
Have you felt like you’re perishing and wondered if Jesus is paying attention? Is he asleep?
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nv4vtIDBYLI
 
Duration 39:20

Teen: "Living a Life of Faith Right Now" by Chris McCurley

April 20, 2024 - Saturday 3:30PM Tent Speaker
 
Speaker: Chris McCurley
 
“Living a Life of Faith Right Now”
 
“If today was the last day of my life, would I want to do what I’m about to do today?” 
– Steve Jobs
 
Is the life you are currently living going to get you to heaven?
 
Would you change anything about your schedule if you knew today was going to be your last day on earth?
 
John 15:1-11
 
The secret to life - Abide in Christ.  Get this right.  It will always be worth it if you abide in Christ.  Put God first.  Often we think if we are good/do good, then we can earn God’s favor and He will bless us in this life and let us into heaven.  But we shouldn’t have a performance-based mindset on life.  In reality, we can never do enough and it’s not all about that anyway.  
 
Everything in our society is about productivity.
Work hard – more money – more valuable to society.
School – work hard – get good grades.
As a church, it’s not all about productivity.  We cannot work our way to heaven.  Don’t be a performance-based Christian.  Have faith in God, not faith in religion.  In John 15, Jesus is not speaking about productivity, but instead connectivity.  Christianity is not as much about rules as it is relationship.  
 
“Fruit production or lack thereof is simply a manifestation of our attachment to the vine.”
 
The Bible is not a rule book, but a story of redemption.
 
John 15:12-17
 
Abide in Me and I will abide in you.  This is Jesus’ invitation.  Matthew 7:21-23.
 
John 14:15.  Plenty of people are moral, but not necessarily Christians.  Rules modify behavior.  A relationship with Jesus gives our lives and our deeds meaning.
 
Put God first, please Him by doing good and following rules.  Don’t focus so heavily on the rules that you forget the relationship.
 
Good connection – Leads to good fruit.
 
What puts your soul in jeopardy is not a lack of productivity but a lack of relationship.
 
When you are connected to the source (God), you will grow and produce fruit, which is a byproduct of being attached to the vine.
 
The worst part of hell is not weeping and gnashing of teeth; it’s that God is not there.
The best part of heaven is that God is there.
 
You’d have to step over the cross of Christ to get to hell; you have to refuse Him.
 
John 15:9
 
A life on the vine is the best life, full of love and joy.  It’s so much more than a list of rules to check off.  Start with the relationship.  
 
We need to allow our relationship with Jesus to drive everything in our lives:  Work, school, family, church.
 
Is what I do the result of who I am with?
 
We often read the Bible with appreciation and for information, but need to ask ourselves, how does this apply to me?
 
Is the way I am currently living going to get me to heaven?  – a question to ask ourselves often.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-6Qe9-BrqU
 
Duration 34:59