Discovering HOPE

A New Work – What Does it All Mean? January 14, 2024 Pastor: Mason Peters This week Pastor Mason invites to consider what a new work inside you means. 4 1) A NEW WORK – DEFINITION Scriptures referenced: Phil 1:6, Philippians 1:6 (NIV) being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Implication #1 – Your salvation is an act of God, not of yourself Implication #2 – Your salvation happened at a moment in time, but it isn’t just a moment in time Implication #3 – Your salvation is a work but it isn’t just a work 2) A New Work – Description Description #1 – Love will increase A decision to love each other is a decision to love yourself and what you want, less – so that somebody else gets the reward of your effort* Description #2 – Knowledge will increase Description #3 – Depth of insight will increase 3) A New Work – Results Result #1 – You will know what is best Result #2 – You will arrive blameless Result #3 – God will be glorified HOPE Church gfhope.org

A NEW WORK – PHILIPPIANS April 07, 2024 Pastor: Mason Peters This week Pastor Mason takes us on a tour of the city of Philippi, to see how God still changes lives, can use anyone, and finishes what he started. Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 1:1, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 3:3 BOOK 1:1 (VER) Quoted passage goes here... 1) GOD STILL CHANGES LIVES Scriptures referenced: Acts 16:6-40, 2) GOD STILL USES ANYONE Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:1-2, Acts 16:6-40, 3) GOD STILL FINISHES WHAT HE STARTS Scriptures referenced: Philippians 1:6; Isaiah 55:11, HOPE Church gfhope.org

He is alive! What Difference Does that Make for You? March 30, 2024 Pastor: Paul Knight This week we celebrate Jesus being risen. Pastor Paul knight asks us what difference does that make in our lives? Does it address fear, a desire to know Jesus, or making a difference in the lives of others? Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 1:1, Genesis 2:2, Exodus 3:3 Matthew 28:1-15 (NIV) After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened.12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day. 1) You do not need to be afraid. Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:1-6, Matthew 28:10, Matthew 28:1-6 (NIV) After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Matthew 28:10 (NIV) Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” Luke 2:9-11 (NIV) An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Matthew 10:28-29 (NIV) Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. 2) You can come and know Jesus. Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:5, 6, Matthew 28:8, 9, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Matthew 28:5, 6 (NIV) The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Matthew 28:8, 9 (NIV) So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 (NIV) For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. 3) You can make a difference in other’s lives. Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:10, 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, 1 John 1:1-4 Matthew 28:10 (NIV) Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 2 Corinthians 5:14, 15 (NIV) For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV) Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Acts 1:8 (NIV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 1 John 1:1-4 (NIV) That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. 2 The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. 4 We write this to make our joy complete. A prayer that we all may desire to pray… Dear God, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that Jesus died for my sins. Please forgive me for my sins. I receive your forgiveness. I receive you as my Savior. I know that you are the Lord. I surrender control of my life into your hands. I receive you as my Lord. I desire to live as a fully devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Thank you for loving me. Amen HOPE Church gfhope.org

The words of Jesus are loud and clear, "no one comes to the father but through me" how we respond is up to us. As we walk through holy week, what soil will you be? 1) THE CONCRETE PATH. . . . AMBIVALENT. but nothing more See also Matthew 26:14-16,47-51; Matthew 27:11-26 2) THE ROCKY GROUND. . . CONFLICTED, but nothing more See also Matthew 1:11, Matthew 21:23-27 3) THE THORN-FILLED SOIL . . . RECEPTIVE, but nothing more See also Matthew 26:47-56; 2 Corinthians 4:7-18

Genuine Faith March 03, 2024 Pastor: Patrick Severson If someone claims to be a follower of Christ but there is no change in their life are they really saved? Pastor Patrick Severson walks us through the concept of genuine faith. Main Scripture Reference(s): Matthew 25:31-46 Matthew 25:31-46 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ “He will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” 1) THE MEASURE OF GENUINE FAITH Scriptures referenced: Matthew 25:40, James 2:18, Ephesians 2:8-10, James 1:27, John 4:8 2) THE METHOD FOR GENUINE FAITH Scriptures referenced: Psalm 34:8, Know Jesus (Psalm 34:8) Position yourself to be transformed by Jesus HOPE Church gfhope.org

Coming from HOPE Studios, this is Hot Seat, where our pastors answer your burning questions, unfiltered. Listen along as Pastor Paul Knight, Pastor Patrick Severson, and Pastor Mason Peters, randomly draw your questions and answer them unfiltered.

Marriage: Sometimes You Need a Knot February 25, 2024 Pastor: Paul Knight Submissiveness, servant-hood, and forgiveness, what would our marriages look like if we applied these concepts instead of looking at marriage being "for me"? This week Pastor Paul Knight asks us through what biblical marriage looks like. Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:21-33, Matthew 19:6, Ephesians 5:21-33 (NIV) Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her 26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, 27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. 28 In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. 29 After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— 30 for we are members of his body.31 “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” 32 This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. 33 However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. Matthew 19:6 (NIV) “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” 1) Tighten your commitment to Living a Christ-like Picture of Marriage. Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:25, 29-33 Ephesians 5:25 (NIV) Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her… After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband. Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV) In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Six Reasons Why Marriage Matters? For the connection of men and women. (1 Corinthians 11:11 NLV; Genesis 2:18 NIV) For the multiplication of the human race. (Malachi 2:15 NLT) For the protection of children. (Proverbs 14:26 NASB) For the perfection of our character. (Proverbs 18:1 CEV) For the construction of society. (Proverbs 14:34 CEV) For the reflection of our union with Christ. (Ephesians 5:26-33 NCV) 2) Tighten your commitment to Living the Character of Christ in Marriage Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:21, 2 Corinthians 5:15, Philippians 2:7, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Colossians 3:13 Ephesians 5:21 (NIV) Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:15 (NIV) And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. Philippians 2:7 (NIV) ...rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV) Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Submission Forgiveness “Couples don’t fall out of love so much as they fall out of repentance.” ~Gary Thomas, Sacred Marriage 3) **Tighten your Commitment to Living the Covenant of Marriage Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:31, Ephesians 5:31, Genesis 2:24, 25, Matthew 19:4-6 Ephesians 5:31 (NIV) For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24, 25 (NIV) That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh. 25 Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame. Matthew 19:4-6 (NIV) “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ 5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’[b]? 6 So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” A covenant is neither a cold contract nor merely an emotional pledge. It is giving your whole life to each other, not just physically but also legally, financially, emotionally, spiritually. The binding, legal commitment creates an unparalleled space for trust, vulnerability, and intimacy. ~Tim Keller, author The Meaning of Marriage HOPE Church gfhope.org

The Rest for Us February 18, 2024 Pastor: Paul Knight Work six take one. That's the pattern God outlined for us in the bible. What if we are a people who are to be different from other people. What if we are not made to be ruled by a schedule or work? Pastor Paul takes us through the concept of biblical rest, and how God might provide for us if we actually trusted. “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Main Scripture Reference(s): Exodus 20:8-11 Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV) “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals… 1) A People Who Remember and Rest. Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:8-11, Exodus 20:8-11 (NIV) Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns.11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. . . Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day. Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (NIV) “Observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy, as the Lord your God has commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.. Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day. Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV) Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. 2 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Exodus 31:16-17 (NIV) The Israelites are to observe the Sabbath, celebrating it for the generations to come as a lasting covenant. 17 It will be a sign between me and the Israelites forever, for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day he rested and was refreshed.’” Numbers 15:32-36 (NIV) While the Israelites were in the wilderness, a man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath day. 33 Those who found him gathering wood brought him to Moses and Aaron and the whole assembly, 34 and they kept him in custody, because it was not clear what should be done to him. 35 Then the Lord said to Moses, “The man must die. The whole assembly must stone him outside the camp.” 36 So the assembly took him outside the camp and stoned him to death, as the Lord commanded Moses. 2) Learn to Trust for a Day of Rest. Scriptures referenced: Exodus 16:14-30, Matthew 11:28-30, Matthew 6:25-34, Galatians 5:1, Colossians 2:16-17, Exodus 16:14-30 (NIV) When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. Moses said to them, “It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Everyone is to gather as much as they need. Take an omer for each person you have in your tent.’” The Israelites did as they were told... Then Moses said to them, “No one is to keep any of it until morning.” However, some of them paid no attention to Moses; they kept part of it until morning, but it was full of maggots and began to smell. So Moses was angry with them. Each morning everyone gathered as much as they needed, and when the sun grew hot, it melted away. On the sixth day, they gathered twice as much—two omers for each person—and the leaders of the community came and reported this to Moses. 23 He said to them, “This is what the Lord commanded: ‘Tomorrow is to be a day of sabbath rest, a holy sabbath to the Lord. So bake what you want to bake and boil what you want to boil. Save whatever is left and keep it until morning.’” So they saved it until morning, as Moses commanded, and it did not stink or get maggots in it. “Eat it today,” Moses said, “because today is a sabbath to the Lord. You will not find any of it on the ground today. Six days you are to gather it, but on the seventh day, the Sabbath, there will not be any.” Nevertheless, some of the people went out on the seventh day to gather it, but they found none. Then the Lord said to Moses, “How long will you refuse to keep my commands and my instructions? Bear in mind that the Lord has given you the Sabbath; that is why on the sixth day he gives you bread for two days. Everyone is to stay where they are on the seventh day; no one is to go out.” So the people rested on the seventh day. Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV) “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? …So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Galatians 5:1 (NIV) It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV) Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. “Even beasts of burden must be turned out to grass occasionally; the very sea pauses at ebb and flood; earth keeps the sabbath in wintery months; and man, even when exalted to God’s ambassador, must recruit his vigor or grown prematurely old…In the long run we shall do more by sometimes doing less.” ~ Charles Spurgeon 3) The Gift of Holy Rest. Scriptures referenced: Exodus 20:1-17 (NIV), Exodus 20:1-17 (NIV) “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery. 3 “You must not have any other god but me. “You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. . . “You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name. “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery. 3 “You must not have any other god but me. “You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. . . “You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name. Commandments 1 to 3 = Love God “Remember to observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household may do any work. This includes you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, your livestock, and any foreigners living among you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens, the earth, the sea, and everything in them; but on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy. Commandment #6 = Let God Love You “Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you. “You must not murder. “You must not commit adultery. “You must not steal. “You must not testify falsely against your neighbor. “You must not covet your neighbor’s house. You must not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.” Commandments 6 to 19 = Love Others Mark 2:27, 28 (NIV) Then he (Jesus) said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” Colossians 2:16-17 (NIV) Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. 17 These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. | Legalism | License | |:---------------------:|:-------------------------------------:| | "You have to Its law" |"Living excessively away from the law" | Blessing and Love Isaiah 56:1-2 (NIV) This is what the Lord says: “Maintain justice and do what is right, for my salvation is close at hand and my righteousness will soon be revealed. Blessed is the one who does this— the person who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it, and keeps their hands from doing any evil.” A Daily Affirmation: I am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor. HOPE Church gfhope.org

Working For the Good of My Neighbor February 11, 2024 Pastor: Paul Knight Making Your Work "More" Main Scripture Reference(s): 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (NIV) Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Where is your place of deployment? How to Impact Your Workplace! 1) Show up like a Christ follower. Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:20, 2 Corinthians 5:11-15, 1 Corinthians 7:17 2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV) We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. 2 Corinthians 5:11-15 (NIV) Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 1 Corinthians 7:17 (NIV) Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches. A Daily Affirmation: I am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor. 2) See Others like a Christ follower. Scriptures referenced: Book 1:1, 2 Corinthians 5:16-17 (NIV) So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! Mark 12:30, 31 (NIV) “The most important one (Commandment),” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Romans 5:8 (NIV) You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 1 John 4:19 (NIV) We love because he first loved us. Genesis 1:26-28 (NIV) Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness... So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them... 3) Serve Others Like a Christ follower. Scriptures referenced: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21, Matthew 5:16, 1 Peter 4:10, 11, Ephesians 2:10, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (NIV) All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Matthew 5:16 (NIV) In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 1 Peter 4:10, 11 (NIV) Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. A Daily Affirmation: I am here on purpose for a purpose. God, help me live it for your glory and the good of my neighbor. HOPE Church gfhope.org

Work that Glorifies God February 04, 2024 Pastor: Paul Knight Making Your Work "More" Main Scripture Reference(s): Colossians 3:17, Colossians 3:1-17, Colossians 3:17 (NIV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:1-17 (NIV) Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Four Guide Words for Doing Work in the Name of the Lord 1) Identity Work that glorifies is done by people who know they are His. Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:1, Colossians 3:3, Colossians 3:12, Colossians 3:23,24, Colossians 3:1 (NIV) Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, Colossians 3:3 (NIV) For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:12 (NIV) Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters… 2) Morality Work that glorifies is done with the values of Jesus Christ. Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:5-11, Colossians 3:12-14, Colossians 3:5-11 (NIV) Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Colossians 3:12-14 (NIV) Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 3) Quality Work that glorifies is done to the best of your ability for Jesus Christ. Scriptures referenced: Colossians 3:23,24, Colossians 3:10, Colossians 3:15,16, Colossians 3:23-25, Genesis 1:31, Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters… Colossians 3:10 (NIV) …and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossians 3:15,16 (NIV) Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. Colossians 3:23-25 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. Genesis 1:31 (NIV) God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day. 4) Eternity Work that glorifies is done with an eye on eternity. Colossians 3:1b-4 (NIV) …set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3:23,24 (NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (NIV) By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, 13 their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. 14 If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward. 15 If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved—even though only as one escaping through the flames. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (NIV) Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. “The main thing God gets out of your life is not the achievements you accomplish. It’s the person you become.” ~ Dallas Willard HOPE Church gfhope.org

The Gift of Work January 28, 2023 Pastor: Paul Knight Making Your Work "More" Main Scripture Reference(s): Genesis 2:1-3, Genesis 2:15, Exodus 20:9 Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV) Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Genesis 2:15 (NIV) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Exodus 20:9 (NIV) Six days you shall labor and do all your work . . . but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord… (Sabbath means rest) 1) Making your work Scriptures referenced: Genesis 2:15, Genesis 2:15 (NIV) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Genesis 3:17-18 (NIV) “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life. 18 It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field. 19 By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” God hasn’t called us merely to make a living. He has invited us to make a life! John 10:10 (NASB) The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly 2) Remember work is godly. Genesis 2:1-3 (NIV) Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Genesis 2:15 (NIV) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Exodus 20:9 (NIV) Six days you shall labor and do all your work . . . 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 (NIV) For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” 11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. Ephesians 4:22-29 (NIV) You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 3) Remember work is a gift. Genesis 1:27 (NIV) So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” Genesis 2:19-20 (NIV) Now the Lord God had formed out of the ground all the wild animals and all the birds in the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds in the sky and all the wild animals. John 3:16 (NIV) For God so loved the world that he gave Genesis 2:15 (NIV) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Deuteronomy 8:18 (NIV) But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points. Read all the related Scripture passages. HOPE Church gfhope.org

Soul Whisperer Feb 26, 2023 Pastor: Paul Knight Discovering the art of being a spiritual influencer 1. Becoming like Jesus, a Soul Whisperer. “Discovering the art of being a spiritual influencer.” Scriptures referenced: Matthew 9:9-13, Mark 6:30-37, John 4:9-15, Luke 19:1-6 & 9-10 Matthew 9:9-13 (NIV) As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow me," he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him. 10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew's house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples. 11 When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?" 12 On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. 13 But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'* For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Mark 6:30-37 (NIV) The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. 35 By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. "This is a remote place," they said, "and it's already very late. 36 Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." John 4:9-15 (NIV) The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.*) 10 Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." 11 "Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12 Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?" 13 Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14 but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life." 15 The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." John 19:1-6 (NIV) Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. 2 A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. 3 He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. 5 When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today." 6 So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. John 19:9-10 (NIV) Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. 10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." 2. Learn to Listen to the Holy Spirit. Scriptures referenced: Mark 1:17, Acts 1:6-8, Acts 3:19, Habakkuk 3:1, 2, Mark 1:17 (NIV) And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men."* Acts 1:6-8 (NIV) Then they gathered around him and asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 3:19 (NIV) Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, Habakkuk 3:1, 2 (NIV) A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet. On shigionoth.* Because We Need More . . . “Revival and prayer always go together. They are inseparably linked.” ~David Mains DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points. Read all the related Scripture passages. HOPE Church gfhope.org

The Bible is Historically Reliable, You Can Trust It! January 15, 2023 Pastor: Paul Knight The Most Popular Book… Can You Trust It? Main Scripture Reference(s): Isaiah 40:8 NIV, 2 Timothy 3:14-17 NIV, Luke 19:37-40 NIV Isaiah 40:8 (NIV) The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever. 2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV) But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Luke 19:37-40 (NIV) When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: 38 "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!"* "Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!" 39 Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, rebuke your disciples!" 40 "I tell you," he replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out." 1. The Discovered Places confirm the trustworthiness of the Bible Scriptures referenced: Genesis 14:9-12, Genesis 19:23-26 A. Sodom and Gomorrah Genesis 14:9-12 (NIV) Against Kedorlaomer king of Elam, Tidal king of Goyim, Amraphel king of Shinar and Arioch king of Ellasar--four kings against five. 10 Now the Valley of Siddim was full of tar pits, and when the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, some of the men fell into them and the rest fled to the hills. 11 The four kings seized all the goods of Sodom and Gomorrah and all their food; then they went away. 12 They also carried off Abram's nephew Lot and his possessions, since he was living in Sodom. Genesis 19:23-26 (NIV) By the time Lot reached Zoar, the sun had risen over the land. 24 Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah--from the LORD out of the heavens. 25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, destroying all those living in the cities--and also the vegetation in the land. 26 But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. B. Megiddo and Solomon's Stables Scriptures referenced: 2 Chronicles 9:25-28 2 Chronicles 9:25-28 (NIV) Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horses,* which he kept in the chariot cities and also with him in Jerusalem. 26 He ruled over all the kings from the Euphrates River to the land of the Philistines, as far as the border of Egypt. 27 The king made silver as common in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar as plentiful as sycamore-fig trees in the foothills. 28 Solomon's horses were imported from Egypt and from all other countries. Nelson Glueck “Don’t walk away at the first sign of a contradiction or a problem. Sometimes scientific study needs to play catch up with the Bible. C. The Pool of Bethsaida John 5:1-9 (NIV) Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for one of the Jewish festivals. 2 Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesda* and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. 3 Here a great number of disabled people used to lie--the blind, the lame, the paralyzed.* 4 5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?" 7 "Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me." 2. The identified people confirm the trustworthiness of the Bible. A. Balaam Scriptures referenced: Numbers 22:4-6, umbers 22:22-40 Number 22:4-6 The Moabites said to the elders of Midian, "This horde is going to lick up everything around us, as an ox licks up the grass of the field." So Balak son of Zippor, who was king of Moab at that time, 5 sent messengers to summon Balaam son of Beor, who was at Pethor, near the Euphrates River, in his native land. Balak said: "A people has come out of Egypt; they cover the face of the land and have settled next to me. 6 Now come and put a curse on these people, because they are too powerful for me. Perhaps then I will be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land. For I know that whoever you bless is blessed, and whoever you curse is cursed." Numbers 22:22-40 (NIV) But God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, it turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat it to get it back on the road. 24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path through the vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, it pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat the donkey again. 26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, it lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat it with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and it said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times? B. King David Scriptures referenced: 2 Samuel 11:1-3, Psalm 23:1-4, Acts 13:21-23 2 Samuel 11:1-3 In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful, 3 and David sent someone to find out about her. The man said, "She is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite." Psalm 23:1-4 A psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, 3 he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,* I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Acts 13:21-23 Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years. 22 After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.' 23 "From this man's descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised. C. Pontius Pilate Scriptures referenced: Matthew 27:22-26 NIV Matthew 27:22-26 (NIV) What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" Pilate asked. They all answered, "Crucify him!" 23 "Why? What crime has he committed?" asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, "Crucify him!" 24 When Pilate saw that he was getting nowhere, but that instead an uproar was starting, he took water and washed his hands in front of the crowd. "I am innocent of this man's blood," he said. "It is your responsibility!" 25 All the people answered, "His blood is on us and on our children!" 26 Then he released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified F.F. Bruce “It can’t have been so easy as some writers seem to think to invent words and deeds of Jesus in those early years, when so many of his disciples were about, who could remember what had and had not happened.” 3. The fulfilled prophecies confirm the trustworthiness of the Bible. Scriptures referenced: Micah 5:2, Isaiah 53:3-6, Psalm 22:1, Psalm 22:14-18, Matthew 24:1-2, Matthew 24:42-44, Acts 1:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4, Revelation 22:20-21 A. The Messiah to be born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 (NIV) "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans* of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." B. The Suffering Messiah Isaiah 53:3-6 (NIV) He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. 4 Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. 5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. 6 We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Psalm 22:1 (NIV) *For the director of music. To the tune of "The Doe of the Morning." A psalm of David. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? Psalm 22:14-18 (NIV) For the director of music. To the tune of "The Doe of the Morning." A psalm of David. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? C. The Destruction of the Temple Matthew 24:1-2 (NIV) Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. 2 "Do you see all these things?" he asked. "Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." D. Yet to be fulfilled: The Return of Jesus Christ Matthew 24:42-44 (NIV) "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. 43 But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and

A Dangerously Beautiful Book! January 8, 2023 Pastor: Paul Knight The Most Popular Book… Can You Trust It? Main Scripture Reference(s): 2 Timothy 3:16, Psalm 119:105, Jeremiah 15:16, Proverbs 2:1-10 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, Psalm 119:105 (NIV) Nun Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Jeremiah 15:16 (NIV) When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, LORD God Almighty. Proverbs 2:1-10 (NLT) My child,* listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. 2 Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. 3 Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. 4 Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. 5 Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 7 He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. 1. The Bible is no ordinary book. Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 1 Peter 1:19-21 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 1 Thessalonians 2:13 (NIV) And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe. 1 Peter 1:19-21 (NIV) but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. 20 He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. 21 Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God. 2. Convinced? Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:14-17, 2 Timothy 3:6-7, Acts 17:11-12, 2 Peter 1:16 2 Timothy 3:14-17 (NIV) But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:6-7 (NIV) They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 7 always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth. Acts 17:11-12 (NIV) Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. 12 As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men. 2 Peter 1:16 (NIV) For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 3. The Bible’s dangerously beautiful power. Scriptures referenced: 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Timothy 3:1-14, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 119:11, 1 Peter 3:15-16 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God* may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:1-14 (NIV) But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. 2 People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, 4 treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God-- 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. 6 They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Psalm 119:11 (NIV) I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. 1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV) But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. Because We Need More . . . DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points. The Bible is not an ordinary book. In what ways do you personally find the bible unique? How do the claims of the bible invite you or ghallenge you? Do you treat the bible in a way that is consistent with it's uniqueness? HOPE Church gfhope.org

Fill Us Up, Please! July 17, 2022 Pastor: Paul Knight Living the Two Step Life. One step away from the darkness, one step toward the light. Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:8-21 (NIV) For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 11 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. 13 But everything exposed by the light becomes visible--and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said: "Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." 1) If we are following Jesus, we should be like Jesus, shouldn’t we? Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:1-7, 1 Corinthians 11:1, Ephesians 5:1-7 (NASB) Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a person is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.* 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NASB) Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. Ephesians 5:1-7 (NIV) Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. 5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person--such a person is an idolater--has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.* 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. 7 Therefore do not be partners with them. Ephesians 5:8-10 NIV (NIV) For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) 10 and find out what pleases the Lord. 2) To be more like Jesus, we need the Holy Spirit, don’t we? Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:18-21, Ephesians 1:13-14, Acts 1:8, Ephesians 4:29-32 Ephesians 5:18-21 (NIV) Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 1:13-14 (NIV) And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, 14 who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession--to the praise of his glory. Acts 1:8 (NIV) But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Ephesians 4:29-32 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Scriptures referenced: Galatians 5:22-25 NIV, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NIV Galatians 5:22-25 (NIV) But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (NIV) Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues,* and to still another the interpretation of tongues.* 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distributes them to each one, just as he determines. Who is the Holy Spirit? What does the Holy Spirit do? 3) Because we want to be like Jesus, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, all of us, all the time. Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:18-21, Philippians 2:4-8, Ephesians 3:14-21 Ephesians 5:18-21 (NIV) Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Philippians 2:4-8 (ESV) Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,* 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,* 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,* being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Ephesians 3:14-21 (NIV) For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family* in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, Being Filled with the Holy Spirit – (vs. 18) Because We Need More... Discussion Questions, Thoughts, and Things to Ponder For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party Quick Review Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that inspired, encourage, challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points. Read all the related Scripture passages. Fill Us Up, Please! In what ways do you notice in the Church a greater need for God’s Spirit? If we are following Jesus, we should be like Jesus, shouldn’t we? In your own life, where are you noticing that you are becoming more like Jesus? If you would think of general areas (finances, attentiveness, sexuality, thoughts, actions, etc.), where do you think it would be important for you to become more like Jesus? What is your greatest spiritual hinderance to becoming more like Jesus? Notes: To be more like Jesus, we need the Holy Spirit, don’t we. What are some of your initial thoughts about the Holy Spirit? What do you know about Him? Would you say you are aware of your need for Him? How would you describe your “feelings” toward the Holy Spirit? (nervous, craving, idolatrous, unsure, etc.) Notes: Because we want to be like Jesus, we need to be filled with the Holy Spirit, all of us, all the time. If you are not full of the Holy Spirit, what are you full of? Can you describe the competitors to the Holy Spirit’s fullness? What would yielding to the Spirit look like in your life? Would you pray right now through Ephesians 3:14-21. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit and to strengthen you in your inner being with His power. HOPE Church gfhope.org

The Silent Killer June 26, 2022 Pastor: Mason Peters Be Church! Living up into who we are Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:3-8 (ESV) But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 1) SYMPTOMS Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 5:3-4 Ephesians 5:3-4 (ESV) But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. 4 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. Stymptom #1: Immorality Scriptures referenced: Matthew 5:27-28; James 1:14-15 Matthew 5:27-28 (ESV) You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Stymptom #2: Greed Stymptom #3: Obscenity 2) DIAGNOSIS Idolatry also known as Discontent 3) PROGNOSIS Loss of the Kingdom 4) ANTIDOTE Gratitude HOPE Church gfhope.org

Be Imitators of God June 19, 2022 Pastor: Eric Kuehner Be Church! Living up into who we are Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 5:1-2 (ESV) Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. 1) 1. Be Like The Father Scriptures referenced: Genesis 1:26, Leviticus 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7; 20:26; 21:8, 1 Peter 1:15-16, Matthew 5:48 Genesis 1:26 (ESV) Then God said, "Let us make man* in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." Leviticus 11:44-45 (ESV) For I am the LORD your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy. You shall not defile yourselves with any swarming thing that crawls on the ground. 45 For I am the LORD who brought you up out of the land of Egypt to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy." Leviticus 19:2 (ESV) Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy. Leviticus 20:7 (ESV) Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God. Leviticus 20:26 (ESV) You shall be holy to me, for I the LORD am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine. Leviticus 21:8 (ESV) You shall sanctify him, for he offers the bread of your God. He shall be holy to you, for I, the LORD, who sanctify you, am holy. 1 Peter 1:15-16 (ESV) but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy." Matthew 5:48 (ESV) You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. 2) Love Like The Father Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, John 13:35 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (ESV) Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;* 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. John 13:35 (ESV) By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." Reason #1: We are beloved children Scriptures referenced: Romans 8:15, Matthew 6:9, Galatians 4:6-7, John 1:12 Romans 8:15 (ESV) For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" Matthew 6:9 (ESV) Pray then like this: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.* Galatians 4:6-7 (ESV) And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" 7 So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. John 1:12 (ESV) But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, Reason #2: Christ loved us and gave himself up for us Scriptures referenced: John 15:13 John 15:13 (ESV) Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. --DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER-- For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or your watch party: Quick Review: Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points below: Be Like the Father Love Like the Father Verse 1 tells us to be imitators of God. How are we to imitate God? Who is our model? What areas of your life are in conflict with being an imitator of God? What does is look like to walk out Love? Do you see yourself as a child of God? Are there things that have happened in your own life that have kept you from trusting God completely? What does your Gospel love look like? HOPE Church gfhope.org

Trading Places May 29, 2022 Pastor: Eric Kuehner Be Church! Living up into who we are Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 4:20-24 (ESV) But that is not the way you learned Christ!-- 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 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, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. 1) The Old Way of Thinking and Living. Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 13:11, Ephesians 4:31, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, 1 Corinthians 14:20, Ephesians 4:13-15 1 Corinthians 13:11 (ESV) When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. Ephesians 4:31 (NLV) Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV) But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. 2 For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, 4 treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. 1 Corinthians 14:20 (ESV) Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature. Ephesians 4:13-15 (NLT) 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) A New Way of Thinking Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:22-23, Romans 12:2 Ephesians 4:22-23 (NLT) Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Romans 12:2 (NLT) 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. 3) A New Way of Living Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:24, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 Peter 1:13-16, Romans 6:12-14 Ephesians 4:24 (NLT) Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT) This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 1 Peter 1:13-16 (NLT) So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14 So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. 15 But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. 16 For the Scriptures say, "You must be holy because I am holy." Romans 6:12-14 (NLT) Do not let sin control the way you live;* do not give in to sinful desires. 13 Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. 14 Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God's grace. HOPE Church gfhope.org

No Looking Back May 22, 2022 Pastor: Patrick Severson Be Church! Living up into who we are Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 4:17-19 (ESV) Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 1) Our new life in Christ according to Ephesians Scriptures referenced: We are blessed with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3) We are chosen (Ephesians 1:4; Ephesians 1:11) We are blameless (Ephesians 1:4) We are adopted (Ephesians 1:5) We are in Him (Ephesians 1:7) We have redemption (Ephesians 1:8) We are forgiven (Ephesians 1:8) We have purpose (Ephesians 1:9) We have hope (Ephesians 1:12) We are included (Ephesians 1:13) We are saints (Ephesians 1:18) We are alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5) We are raised up with Christ (Ephesians 2:6) We experience the incomparable riches of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:7) We experience the kindness of God (Ephesians 2:7) We have peace (Ephesians 2:14) We have access to the Father (Ephesians 2:18) We are members of God’s household (Ephesians 2:19) We are secure (Ephesians 2:20) We are a holy temple (Ephesians 2:21) We have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us (Ephesians 2:22) We share in the promise of Christ (Ephesians 3:6) We can approach God in confidence and freedom (Ephesians 3:12) We can know our suffering is not meaningless (Ephesians 3:13) We experience the deep, profound love of Christ (Ephesians 3:18) We are complete in God (Ephesians 3:19) We have been called (Ephesians 4:1-2) We can mature spiritually (Ephesians 4:15) 2) It is worth leaving our old life and embracing our new life in Christ Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:18 Ephesians 4:18 (ESV) They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 3) Before Christ we were once ignorantly filled with darkness Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:15, Ephesians 4:16 Ephesian 4:15 (ESV) Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. 3) Before Christ we were separated from God Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:18 Ephesian 4:18 (ESV) They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 4) Before Christ Our Hearts Were Hardened Ephesian 4:18 (ESV) They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. 5) Before Christ Our Conscience Was a Mess. Ephesian 4:19 (ESV) They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. 6) Before Christ We Continually Lusted For Things We Thought Would Bring Satisfaction. Ephesian 4:19 (ESV) They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. HOPE Church gfhope.org

TRUTHING May 08, 2022 Pastor: Mason Peters Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 4:14-16 (ESV) So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. TRUTHING – to live in the truth in a Biblical, Godly way so that we are not pushed around by either external or internal deceit 1) TRUTH . . . TRUTHING means the relentless pursuit of REALITY despite the struggle Scriptures referenced: John 8:43-45 NIV, John 8:32 NIV, John 8:36 NIV John 8:43-45 (NIV) Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. 44 You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 Yet because I tell the truth, you do not believe me! John 8:32 (NIV) Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:36 (NIV) So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 2) LOVE . . . TRUTHING means the relentless pursuit of RELATIONSHIPS despite the struggle Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:15 Ephesians 4:15 (ESV) Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ. 3) MATURITY . . . TRUTHING means the relentless pursuit of JESUS despite the struggle Scriptures referenced: Ephesian 4:15, Ephesians 4:16 Ephesian 4:15 (ESV) Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. HOPE Church gfhope.org