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 would not have let his house be broken into. 44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Acts 1:10-11 (NIV) They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." 1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 (NIV) Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. 4 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. Revelation 22:20-21 (NIV) He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's people. Amen. Augustine The Holy Scriptures are our letters from home. 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

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

God’s Game Plan for the Church May 01, 2022 Pastor: Mason Peters 1) ) To Equip the followers of Jesus to accomplish the mission of the Church Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:12 (ESV) To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 2) To mature . . . the followers of Jesus to the point of unity Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:13 Ephesians 4:13 (ESV) Until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,* to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, 3) 3) To Conform the followers of Jesus to His fullness Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:13 Ephesians 4:13 (ESV) Until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood,* to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, HOPE Church gfhope.org

Gifts Given April 24, 2022 Pastor: Eric Kuehner Main Scripture Reference(s): Ephesians 4:7-10 (NKJV) But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift. Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men."* (Now this, "He ascended"--what does it mean but that He also first* descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is also the One who ascended far above all the heavens, that He might fill all things.) 1) Each One is Gifted for a Purpose 1.a Jesus distributes gifts as He desires Scriptures referenced: Matthew 25:15, Ephesians 3:8-9 (NKJV) 1.b These are Jesus’ gifts 1.c Each One has been gifted for the common good Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 12:7, Romans 12:4–6 1 Corinthians 12:7 (ESV) To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. Rom 12:4–6 (ESV) For as in one body we have many members,* and the members do not all have the same function so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 2) To the Victor Go the Spoils Scriptures referenced: Ephesians 4:8, Psalm 68:18 Eph 4:8 (NKJV) Therefore He says: "When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive, And gave gifts to men." Psalms 68:18 (NKJV) You have ascended on high, You have led captivity captive; You have received gifts among men, Even from the rebellious, That the LORD God might dwell there. 3) No Gifts Should Go Unused Scriptures referenced: 1 Peter 4:10 1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV) As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. HOPE Church gfhope.org

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN April 10, 2022 Pastor: Mason Peters Main Scripture Reference(s): Matthew 21:1-11 (NKJV) Now when they drew near Jerusalem, and came to Bethphage,* at the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Loose [them] and bring [them] to Me. 3 "And if anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them,' and immediately he will send them." 4 All* this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: 5 "Tell the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly, and sitting on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.' "* 6 So the disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their clothes on them, and set [Him]* on them. 1) Investing/Inviting may come at a COST Scriptures referenced: Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV) Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV) 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. 2) Investing/Inviting is not DEPENDENT on your ability Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (ESV) For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards,* not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. 27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, 29 so that no human being* might boast in the presence of God. 3) Investing/Inviting will be totally WORTH it Scriptures referenced: Matthew 28:16-20 Matthew 28:16-20 (NKJV) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 "Go therefore* and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, [even] to the end of the age." Amen.* HOPE Church gfhope.org

Invest and Invite April 03, 2022 Pastor: Jason Wood Main Scripture Reference(s): John 4 (NKJV) Therefore, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John 2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples), 3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee. 4 But He needed to go through Samaria. 5 So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink." Evangelism is…Being a Messenger of the Good News 1) God invests in us Scriptures referenced: John 4:6-9 John 4:6-9 (NKJV) Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from [His] journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. 7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink." 8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?" For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. 2) God invites us in Scriptures referenced: John 4:26 John 4:26 (NKJV) Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am [He]." 3) Unity is the POWER of our witness Scriptures referenced: John 13:35 Jhn 13:35 )NKJV) "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. There is not a shortage of the Harvest, there is a shortage of the workers. Scriptures referenced: Matthew 9:35 Matthew 9:35 (NKJV) Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.* HOPE Church gfhope.org

Kneeling before the Father Ephesians 3:14-15, Ephesians 3:20, Matthew 6:1-9, Psalm 95:6-7 Notes: 2. Praying for inner strength Ephesians 3:16-17 Ephesians 3:17 (The Living Bible) And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts, living within you as you trust in him. Ephesians 3:14 & 16 ESV For this reason I bow my knees before the Father . . . that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith— Notes: 3. Praying for comprehension of love Ephesians 3:17-19, Philippians 1:9-11, 1 John 3:1-3 Notes: Next Sunday: Ephesians 3:19-21

Through Him we have Access. Ephesians 2:18, 1 John 4:14-15 Through Him we Belong. Ephesians 2:19 On Him is laid the Foundation. Ephesians 2:20, Matthew 7:24-27, Isaiah 28:16 In Him we are Connected. Ephesians 2:21-22 “The presence of God is what constitutes a temple, not a structure.” 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. Through Him we have Access. Through Him we Belong. On Him is laid the Foundation. In Him we are Connected How did Christ accomplish His reconciliation? Check out Ephesians 2:13, Ephesians 2:15, Ephesians 2:16, and Ephesians 2:18. What are the results/benefits of the reconciliation that Christ brought about? What does it mean to you to be a Citizen/Family member of God’s household? What in your life keeps you off kilter or out of alignment? How can you become more connected with those around and be The Church?

Separated Ephesians 2:11-12, Colossians 1:21-23, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 Separated from. . . God One Another Notes: 2. Blood Ephesians 2:13, Hebrews 9:20-22, Hebrews 10:1-3, Hebrews 10:11-14, 10:18, Colossians 1:19-20 Notes: 3. Remember Ephesians 2:11-12, Deuteronomy 6:4-12, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Notes: 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? Separated Blood Remember Ephesians 2:13 says, “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near . . . “ In what ways do you sense that you have been brought near to God? How do you notice in your personal life the reality of you being “brought near” to others? Where are you separated from others in ways that Christ would desire otherwise? How do you understand the importance of the blood of Jesus Christ being shed? Think about and describe how you have been “brought near” through the blood of Christ? Is this practically true in your life? When called on to remember your former life, what comes to mind? How do you remember the wonderful things God has done for you? What is the difference between remembering in a good way and remembering in a harmful way? What comes to your memory during the Lord’s Supper? Notes:

You are a piece of work! Ephesians 2:10 NASB For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Genesis 2:7, Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 1:31, Philippians 1:6 You are the best you, “in Christ.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV . . . created in Christ Jesus . . . 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:1-2, Galatians 5:16-25 You! Do good. Ephesians 2:10 NASB For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. 1 Corinthians 15:10, James 2:17-19, Matthew 5:14-16 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 challenged, confused, or caught your attention? Review the main idea behind each of the points below? You are a piece of work! You are the best you, “in Christ.” You! Do good. How do you internally respond to the reality that you are a work of God, His masterpiece? In what ways do you see the handiwork of God in your life? Can you describe a time when you were “the best you” in your relationship with Jesus Christ? If you look at your life like a piece of sculpture, who has been doing of the sculpting (God, Satan, Self)? Can you identify an area where God is working in you currently? How do you respond to the idea of doing good works as a lifestyle instead of a project? Pastor Paul mentioned that a lot of Christians have been trained not to do wrong or not to do bad rather than trained to do good. How is this been true or not true in your life? He also mentioned that sometimes we are more concerned with being right than being good. How do you react to that idea? Imagine if all the Christ followers would be like streams of living water, doing good in the name of Jesus. What do you think could happen?

-- Main Scripture Reference -- Ephesians 2:1-10 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh* and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. -- Serman Notes -- 1. You didn't do it. Eph 2:1-3 NIV - 1 As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh* and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. Eph 2:8-9 NIV - 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 2. God did it. Eph 2:4-8 NIV - 4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved. 6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- Rom 5:6-8 NIV - 6 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. 3. There is no room for boasting! Eph 2:9 NIV - 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. Col 3:12-13 NIV - 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. -- 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: * Are you saved? * If you are saved... you didn't do it. * If you are saved... God did it. * If you are saved... Stop boasting Are you saved? Tell or rehearse your salvation story. If you are not saved, what is holding you back? Can you surrender that thing and take a step of faith? Who do you know that needs to hear what God has done for you?? In what ways do you seem to be trying to earn your salvation? Why is God's grace so difficult to receive? Looking back, can you see the hand of God in your salvation? Are there areas of your life or relationships where you tned to boast about who you are in Christ or areas where you demonstrate an arrogance about being a Christ follower? Can you ask God to make you more humble? -- Get Connected -- Contact Us! (https://www.gfhope.org/contactus) We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff. -- Stay Connected -- Follow us on Twitter (https://twitter.com/gfhope) Like us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gfhope.org/)

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 points. 1. Opportunities Lost 2. Opportunities Seized What is the result of obedience to Jesus? What is the result of living a life of faithfulness to God? What is the result of living out the good works that Jesus created us to live by the power of God’s Holy Spirit? Well, jump back to verse 34! The reward is for us to, “. . . inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” When seeing someone in need whether in person or through media, what is your first reaction? Is it a reaction of compassion or is it to look away and ignore the need? What are ways in which we can serve the community, our neighbors, our church, and those within other places of need that is outside our realm of touch?

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