Huntsville First Baptist Church

 

I want to invite each of you to covenant with me to read through the New Testament this year as a church family.  I pray you will join me in this year-long journey as we read God’s Word together.

                                                                         Pastor Jack McCarty, Senior Pastor

 

Each month we will post the reading plan for the month.  We are also including three questions you may use after each day’s reading for application.

 

QUESTION #1

What does the passage teach me about who God is?

(This question keeps us centered on the purpose of the Word and makes it about Him, not us.)

 

QUESTION #2

What does the passage teach me about who I am in light of who God is?

(Only after we have focused on who God is are we prepared to move toward any application to ourselves.)

 

QUESTION #3

What does the passage teach me about how I should live in light of who God is and who I am?

(This question gives us the opportunity to begin applying the truths of the text to our own lives, while being careful not to insert ourselves into stories that aren’t about us.)

 

 

 

January 4          Luke 1

January 5          Luke 2

January 6.         Luke 3

January 7          Luke 4

January 8          Luke 5

 

January 11         Luke 6

January 12         Luke 7

January 13         Luke 8

January 14         Luke 9

January 15         Luke 10

 

January 18         Luke 11

January 19         Luke 12

January 20         Luke 13

January 21         Luke 14

January 22         Luke 15

 

January 25         Luke 16

January 26         Luke 17

January 27         Luke 18

January 28         Luke 19

January 29         Luke 20

 

 

February 1          Luke 21

February 2          Luke 22

February 3          Luke 23

February 4          Luke 24

February 5          Acts 1

 

 

February 8          Acts 2

February 9          Acts 3

February 10        Acts 4

February 11        Acts 5

February 12        Acts 6

 

 

February 15        Acts 7

February 16        Acts 8

February 17        Acts 9

February 18        Acts 10

February 19        Acts 11

 

 

February 22        Acts 12

February 23        Acts 13

February 24        Acts 14

February 25        James 1

February 26        James 2 

 

 

 

 

       

 

TUESDAY 12/29/20

 

How can the Bible, containing 66 books, written by 40 different authors over a 1600 year period consistently have one central message:  God, who created us all, desires a relationship with us, who sacrificed His Son on the cross, offering repentance and salvation to all who would trust Him?

 

What is the attitude of the people you encounter daily (at work, school, family, etc.) of the Bible?  How important is it to them?  Do they believe it?  Do they apply it/live it out?

 

What is your attitude towards the Bible personally – what does it mean to you?  How much time do you spend with it?

 

Read 2 Timothy 3:14-15.  What is Paul challenging Timothy to continue in?

 

Also read 2 Timothy 1:5.  Who did Timothy learn from?

 

What impact has your parents or grandparents had on your spiritual life?

 

Describe the importance of a parents influence in a child’s/teenager’s spiritual life.

 

Why do so many Christian parents place more emphasis on other activities and accomplishments than their child’s relationship with the Lord?

 

Spend time today praying for a growing DESIRE for the Word of God.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY 12/30/20 “No Ordinary Book” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

 

In verse 15 Paul states “…from childhood you have been acquainted with the Sacred Writings,…”

 

What is Paul referring to when he says “sacred writings”?

 

The “Sacred Writings” were the Old Testament which were the only scriptures available 2000 years ago as Timothy was taught as a child by his mother and grandmother.  (2 Timothy 1:5)

 

The second part of verse 15 says, “…which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:3-4.  The words “…in accordance with the scriptures…” indicate what about the Old Testament?

 

Beginning in Genesis, the Old Testament points towards Jesus Christ, the Messiah, God’s plan for redemption and salvation.

 

Spend some time reflecting on passages in the Old Testament that have had an impact on your life.  Describe the impact!

 

Identify a passage or story in the Bible that points towards salvation in Jesus Christ.

 

Spend time today reflecting on the passage you identified in the Old Testament and thanking the Lord for the salvation He has offered a lost world.

 

 

 

THURSDAY 12/31/20 “No Ordinary Book” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

 

In verse 16 Paul begins with “All scripture” – including the Old and New Testament – “…is breathed out by God…”.

 

In the Greek the word “inspired” means “breathed out” – the source of Sacred Writings (the scripture) is breathed out by God – the very words of God through men.

 

Read Hebrews 1:1-2, 2 Peter 1:20-21, Matthew 24:35.

 

In Matthew 24:35 – every small detail!  What is the meaning of this verse?

 

Verse 16 says the scriptures are profitable for:

1.  Teaching – Doctrine or our beliefs as a follower of Jesus Christ.    

Explain the value of biblical teaching (discipleship)!

 

2.  Reproof (reprimand) – Why is it important we rebuke wrong behavior or belief (what is not in accordance with God’s Word)?

If we fail to rebuke in an individual’s life or in the church, what are the possible results?

 

Spend time today asking the Lord to give you a desire to go deeper in His Word and for greater understanding and discernment.

 

 

 

FRIDAY 1/01/21 “No Ordinary Book” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

 

As you read the passage today, verse 16 continues to say “the scriptures are profitable for”:

 

3.  Correction – How would you describe godly correction?  How does the scriptures correct or restore?

 

4.  Training in Righteousness – How can scripture help you stay on the right path and develop godly character?

 

Why is it important to have a blueprint for building a house?

 

Is it not even more critical we have a blueprint for our life?

 

This passage closes with verse 17 – “that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

 

How can the Bible and presence of the Holy Spirit make us complete and equipped to serve the Lord?

 

Spend time in prayer today thanking the Lord for speaking and guiding us through His Word.

 

 

 

SATURDAY 1/02/21 “No Ordinary Book” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

 

As we begin 2021 we ask that you spend time praying for:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TUESDAY 12/22/20  THE NAME

 

Isaiah 9:6 tells us that Jesus is both human (“A Child Is born”) and divine (“A son is given”) – the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ.

 

“The government will rest on His shoulder,” the Messiah will come to govern!  He will rule over the whole world with justice and righteousness.

 

He will rule as King of Kings and Lord of Lords upon His second coming.  Philippians 2:9-11

 

As we celebrate Christmas, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, explain what it means to you personally.

 

Reflect on how God gave His Son to be born in a manger – in poverty – to suffer – to be rejected – beaten and tortured – and ultimately die on a cross in our place for our sins – that we could experience forgiveness, salvation, and eternity in heaven.

 

Spend time praying and thanking God for the Greatest Gift – His Son, Jesus Christ!

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  12/23/20  THE NAME

 

There are over 256 names in the scripture attempting to describe the character and nature of Jesus Christ.  “Indescribable”

 

Isaiah shares four descriptive names describing the Messiah’s excellence and superiority.

 

We will look at two of these names today allowing you to meditate on what they mean to you.

 

“Wonderful Counselor” – Describe the meaning of these two words to you personally.  

 

List how “Jesus”, the “Wonderful Counselor” has guided, encouraged, comforted, and strengthened you.

 

“Mighty God” – Describe Jesus’ power and what it means to you.

 

What does the following words mean?

 

*Omnipotent –

*Omniscient – 

*Omnipresent –

 

Read Ephesians 3:20-21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Think of the meaning of these two words!

 

“Father” – Describe what a loving Father means to you.  Describe the actions of a loving father for their child.

 

“Everlasting” – What does this mean to You?

 

*Prince of Peace 

Describe the peace Jesus bring to your life in spite of confusion, trials, and temptations (what is going on in our lives at this time with the virus, uncertainty, and political chaos)

 

“Prince” – What does this signify?

 

Spend time giving thanks for the love and peace we experience in Jesus Christ.  Also pray that others will experience the love, hope, and peace offered in the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

 

 

 

FRIDAY  12/25/20  CHRISTMAS DAY

 

Read Isaiah 7:14, 9:6-7 and Luke 2:1-20 as a family.

 

Spend time thanking the Lord for the greatest gift – Jesus Christ!

 

 

 

SATURDAY  12/26/20  ISAIAH 9:6-7

 

*Spend time praying that others will experience the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.  (Be specific)

 

*Pray for the Message at 11:00 a.m. tomorrow to impact our lives.

 

*Pray for First Baptist Church as we begin to read through the New Testament in 2021 together – that we will experience the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our church.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TUESDAY 12/15/20  The Tree and the Gift

 

Christmas is almost here!  Family gifts, Christmas trees, decorations, carols, Christmas movies, and above all, celebrating the Birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!

 

Spend time explaining what Christmas means to you – the difference it makes in your life!

 

How important are gifts in your celebration of Christmas?

 

Read Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Romans 5:8.

 

Describe the meaning of these verses to you personally.

 

How did God demonstrate (or show) His love for us?

 

How does this gift compare to anything else you have received?

 

Spend time today thanking the Lord for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ – our Savior.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  12/16/20  The Tree and the Gift

 

The message on Sunday spoke about the symbolism of the Christmas Tree – A Gift!

 

The history of Christmas trees began in the Middle Ages (approximately in the 800’s AD) in Germany – celebrating the Paradise tree – the feast of Adam and Eve.

 

A small tree was brought into the home and first decorated with small apples, representing the sin (fall of mankind).

The second decoration was later put on – wafers – representing the communion bread, “This is my body.”

The third decoration placed on the tree was small candles, representing Jesus Christ, the Light of the World!

 

In the early 1500’s Martin Luther cut an evergreen tree down and took it into his home and decorated it with candles to teach his children at this time of the year that the Light of Jesus Christ penetrated the darkness – setting man free through His birth and sacrifice on the cross!  (tree)

 

In the 1840’s the Christmas tee became more popular in Europe and the United States.

 

The decorations – ornaments (often homemade), candles, and the giving of gifts ushered in the Christmas tee as we know it today.

 

The Christmas tree demonstrates the Spirit of Giving!

 

List the top three gifts you have received over the years – given to you at Christmas time.

 

Read John 3:16, 2 Corinthians 9:15.

 

How does the gift of salvation compare to those three gifts?

 

Spend time giving thanks for the gift of salvation you have received.  Also, pray for others to experience the gift of salvation.

 

 

 

THURSDAY  12/17/20  The Tree and the Gift

 

The wise men giving gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the Messiah.  

 

During the third century in what we call modern day Turkey, a bishop (preacher) named Nicholas was known for being very compassionate – secretly giving gifts to children and the poor.  Upon his death people took up the custom of giving which spread to Europe where a red cape and white fur were added to the legend.  The Dutch called him Sinter Klaus, where we get the name Santa Claus!

 

Today we often confuse the idea of receiving instead of the blessing of __________________!

 

It’s important we teach our families and children the true meaning of Christmas, the greatest gift of all – __________  _____________!

The greatest gift of all , the gift upon the tree – Jesus Christ!  

 

Read Acts 13:29, Acts 530, 1 Peter 2:24.

 

Spend time today praying we will understand we have the greatest gift of all – when we have Jesus Christ – A Living Hope!

 

 

 

FRIDAY  12/18/20  The Tree and the Gift

 

 

FIRST TREE:  In the beginning – Genesis 2:9, 2:16-17, 3:22

The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil

 

Describe the Fall of Mankind (why? – the disobedience)

 

Why were Adam and Eve removed from the Garden of Eden?

 

SECOND TREE:  Read Revelation 2:7, 22:2, 22:19.

What is the Tree of Life?  What does it mean to you and to others?

 

THIRD TREE:  The Cross!  Read Romans 5:8.

The Tree of Life is available to mankind through Jesus Christ.  Eternal Life is once again available.

 

Read Romans 5:17.

 

The Bible begins in Genesis with the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and ends in Revelation with the Tree of Life!

 

In between those two trees – is the Cross!

 

The one tree that enables people to get to the final tree – the Tree of Life – Life Forever!  The Greatest Gift of All!

 

Spend time in prayer thanking the Lord for the greatest gift of all – Salvation!  Pray that the world will experience the gift of salvation and find peace and hope that only comes through Jesus Christ!

 

 

 

SATURDAY  12/19/20

 

As we are only a few days away from Christmas, pray that our families, our church, our community, our country, and across the world will experience the true meaning of Christmas – the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  The Greatest Gift of All!

 

Pray for the services tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. and for the Candlelight Service at 6:00 p.m.

TUESDAY 12/08/20  Read 1 John 2:15-17

 

Explain what John is saying in the opening of verse 15, “Do Not love the World.”

 

The word “World” is used three primary ways in the New Testament.

Referring to:  1.  Planet Earth

                    2.  People John 3:16

                    3.  The organized evil system – with its principles and practices under the authority of Satan

 

John is referring to #3 – the organized evil system under the authority of Satan.

 

Read John 14:30 and John 16:11.  What is Jesus calling Satan in these verses?  

 

Read 2 Corinthians – What is Paul calling Satan in this verse and what is he doing?

 

Read Luke 16:8.  Who is Jesus speaking of in this verse?

 

Describe the evil world system we are experiencing today in our culture – our lives?

 

Spend time praying today for wisdom, discernment, and strength from the Holy Spirit to recognize and refrain from compromising your biblical values.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  12/09/20  1 John 2:15-17

 

After reading 1 John 2:15-17 today, go back and define the word “Love” in verse 15.

 

What does true love require?

 

Identify someone you deeply love.  What do you invest in that relationship personally?

 

Identify something you love other than an individual (a sport, hobby activity, material items, etc.)

 

How much time do you spend in or with this activity or item?

 

What resources do you invest in this item or activity?  (And how much?)

 

Love is a desire for something and a commitment for something.  It not only requires commitment but also time and resources.

 

If you love the world’s system that’s where your time and resources go!  Often something we pursue or acquire may not initially be wrong, until it begins to hinder, distract, and break our fellowship with God.  (Examples:  sports, jobs, hobbies)

 

Loving the world is the sin of allowing your appetites, ambitions, and conduct to be fashioned (shaped) according to earthly values.

 

List at least four signs or characteristics of people loving the world:

 

Spend time today taking inventory of where your time and resources go and pray for the Lord to give you the heart, desire, and discipline to readjust your priorities for His Glory!

 

 

 

THURSDAY  12/10/20  1 John 2:15-17

 

After reading 1 John 2:15-17 today, go back and focus on the second part of verse 15 and verse 16.

 

After reading this, is it possible to love the world and God?

 

Explain your answer!

 

Read Matthew 6:24 (the word “money” in this verse means material things.)

 

Explain the meaning of this verse.

 

What are the two masters?  What is the result of trying to serve two masters?

 

Take a personal test:  What occupies your time?  Thoughts?  Efforts?  Bank accounts?

 

Read 2 Corinthians 6:14.  Explain the meaning of this verse.

 

Quote from Augustine – “to love the world and not God would be like a maiden who loved the ring her lover had given her and cared nothing for him who gave it!”

 

Spend time today praying that your desire would be for God – God alone!

 

 

 

FRIDAY  12/11/20  1 John 2:15-17

 

After reading this passage today, identify the three desires found in this verse.

 

Describe the desires of the flesh.

 

Read Galatians 5:19-23.  Identify the contrast of those loving the world and those controlled by the Holy Spirit.

 

Describe the desires of the eyes.

 

 

Read 2 Samuel 11:2-5.  David’s desires of the eyes and the consequences.

 

Read Matthew 6:23-24.  Describe the meaning of this passage.

 

Describe the desire of the Pride of Life.

 

Read Genesis 3:6.  Identify the desires of the flesh, eyes, and of the pride of life in this verse.

 

Every Christian has three great enemies:  the world, the flesh, and the devil!

 

The combined power is impossible to overcome in our own strength.

 

Spend time today praying that you would walk in the spirit daily – pursuing the Word – putting on the armor of the Lord – and allowing the presence of the Holy Spirit to strengthen and guide you.

 

 

 

SATURDAY  12/12/20  1 John 2:15-17

 

 

The world’s system is temporary!  It is in the process of passing away!  

 

Why invest your time and resources in something that will not last?

 

Why love and commit your life to something that is in the process of passing away?

 

The real question if why not love and commit your life to Jesus Christ?

 

Only God and His kingdom and those who have a relationship with the Lord will last forever!

 

Re-evaluate where your commitment is – where your time is spent – where your resources are going.  Are you loving the world or God?

 

Spend time praying that your love for the Lord will not be divided but be for Him alone!  Also pray for the worship service tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.

 

 

 

 

 

TUESDAY 12/01/20

 

John is challenging and encouraging the church to grow spiritually – to be fully committed – and to stand firm!

 

One of the greatest examples of being fully committed in American history is the Battle of the Alamo in 1836.  Legend states that the commander of the Alamo drew a line in the sand towards the end of a thirteen day siege against the Mexican Army and said that those willing to stay and fight for the Independence of Texas to cross the line knowing this commitment  would mean certain death.  All but one soldier crossed the line committing to give their lives fighting for the Independence if Texas.  Their commitment and death bought Texas enough time to organize and eventually defeat the Mexican Army – 187 to 257 lives fully committed!

 

Define commitment in your own words.

 

What are the characteristics of a fully committed follower of Christ?

 

List at least three men or women in the scripture that displayed this type of commitment.

 

Spend time praying for a spirit of humility – asking the Lord to develop a desire in your heart to be fully committed.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  12/02/20  A LINE IN THE DIRT  1 John 2:12-14

 

In this passage John addresses three groups of people in the church:  children, young men (and women), fathers (and mothers).

 

He opens with a statement encompassing all of them – “Little children” – a statement of love and endearment for the body of believers.  In verse 12 he says, “because your sins are forgiven for his name’s sake.”

 

Explain why forgiveness is the key to our relationship and fellowship with Christ.  (Explain how forgiveness affects each one differently)

 

What is the meaning of “for his name’s sake”?

 

Why would he be certain they (us) knew forgiveness was for Christ’s sake and not ours?

 

Read Psalm 23:3, Psalm 79:9, Isaiah 43:25.

 

Realizing our sins are “forgiven for His name’s sake” should give us an entirely different perspective on life.

 

How does it impact your understanding and response in your relationship with Jesus Christ?

 

Spend time today praying through this verse and asking the Lord to give you greater understanding of this statement and how you should live your life..

 

 

 

THURSDAY  12/03/20  A LINE IN THE DIRT  1 John 2:12-14

 

In verse 13 John addresses fathers – young men – and children.

 

When John addresses the fathers, he is identifying those that are spiritually mature in the church.  (men and women)

 

Describe the characteristics of someone spiritually mature and how important they are to the church and other believers.

 

Next John addresses the young men of the church – those who are younger in their faith (not by age).  Believers who have overcome the devil through their victory in Christ!

 

Describe the characteristics and what young believers can bring to the church and the work of the ministry.  (young men (or women) can be of any age; however, are often younger physically.)

 

John concludes in verse 13 addressing “children” – translated here in the Greek meaning young of age and innocent.

 

How important is it that churches invest in the lives of children and teenagers?

 

What is the impact if a church fails to see the value of investing in children?  (to the children, families, the church, the community)

 

Spend time today praying for a spirit of unity in our church – realizing how the Lord can use us more effectively when all ages work together for the Lord’s glory.

 

 

 

FRIDAY  12/04/20  A LINE IN THE DIRT  1 John 2:12-14

 

In verse 14 John addresses fathers (mature believers) and young men (those younger in their faith).

 

To Fathers:  Think of someone who is spiritually mature.  Describe their spiritual maturity.

 

To the Young Men:  John says three things describing them.

1.  ______________________________________________________

2.  ______________________________________________________

3.  ______________________________________________________

 

List the three statements he makes about young men and describe their meaning and importance.

 

Spend time today praying for all ages in our church – uncommon unity – for encouragement – and for the believers of FBC to serve together for the Kingdom of God.

 

 

 

SATURDAY  12/05/20  A LINE IN THE DIRT  1 John 2:12-14

 

Spend time today praying for First Baptist Church:

  *If a person has a relationship [born again-2 Corinthians 5:17, John 3:3] – How is the fellowship with God broken or made 

 

   Jesus Christ-He alone has the right to stand before God. In God’s presence as our Advocate or Attorney representing us.

 

  *Verses 1 and 2 tell us Jesus Christ is our Advocate/Helper and the Sacrifice for our sins.

  *Verse 3 is the TEST for genuine salvation 

   What is the proof of our relationship and fellowship with the Lord?

 There are 3 motives for obedience:

   1] Because we have to.—Example: a slave

   2] Because we need to.—Example: employee

   3] Because we want to.—Example: Christian

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” John 14:15

   *The word “know” is used four times in verses 3 through 6. This is assurance for the true Believer who is striving 

     to live in obedience for the Lord out of love.

   *In verse 4 John writes that those who say they know Him, but do not obey His commandments are “liars.” He is 

    speaking of those who continually live in disobedience and have never given their lives to the Lord-lying about 

    their relationship with the Lord.

Spend time today praying that you will continually grow in your fellowship with the Lord-realizing to “know” Him more requires time with Him! [prayer, the Word, Bible Studies, Worship]

 

The devotions this week were scheduled to be 1 John 2:1-6.  Due to having guest speaker, Ron Harris, the devotions will be on Ephesians 5:15-17.

 

TUESDAY  11/03/20  “Walking In Wisdom”  Ephesians 5:15-17

 

Ron Harris spoke this past Sunday on Ephesians 5:15-17.

What does the first part of verse one mean?  “Look carefully then how you walk,”  

What is the meaning of the word “walk” in this context?

 

Paul also says “look carefully” – these are not idle words; what is he saying?

 

We often stumble in the “dark”:  when we first get up, when we are not alert, when we are not “walking in the light”.

 

Life is a walk, a journey.  Identify some of the things that have caused you to stumble.

 

Read Psalm 119:105.  What difference does the Word of God make in YOUR life?

 

Spend time today praying for the desire to “walk in the light”.  Seek the Lord with all of your heart.  Thank Him for our salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ – for the presence of the Holy Spirit in our life and for His Word!

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  11/04/20  “Walking In Wisdom”  Ephesians 5:15-17

 

Paul writes in the second part of Ephesians 5:15 that believers are to walk “not as unwise but wise.”

 

Describe an individual that is walking “unwise” in their life.  (with out wisdom)  Identify a time in your life (or times) when you were walking unwise.

 

Describe an individual that is walking “wise” – in wisdom.  Read Proverbs 1:1-7, Proverbs 2:1-5.  Describe the difference it makes in your life when seeking “wisdom’ from the Lord.

 

Ron spoke of three words in the beginning of his message:  conscience (knowing right from wrong), character, and courage.

 

How does each one of these words apply to walking in wisdom?  The difference each characteristic makes in your life?

 

 

Spend time today praying for God’s wisdom in your life.  Pray through Proverbs 2:1-5.

 

 

 

THURSDAY  11/05/20  “Walking In Wisdom”  Ephesians 5:15-17

 

Paul writes in verse 16 that we are to be “making the best use of the time,”.  What does this mean?

 

He also states “because the days are evil.” in verse 16.

 

Describe the days we are living in:  our culture, morals, influence, our country, media, politics, marriage, our schools, abortion, violence, lack of respect, and apathy in the church.

 

Verse 16 is a picture of “urgency.”  Why is it urgent to you, your family, others, our country, and to our church that you (all believers) pursue God’s wisdom and WALK in LIGHT!

 

Be specific!

 

Identify times you have wasted your time!

 

How could those times (or in the future) be spent for God’s Glory?

 

Spend time today praying you will seek the Lord’s will in your life, making the most of the remainder of your journey here on earth for God’s Glory!  Pray for a sense of urgency!

 

 

 

FRIDAY  11/06/20  “Walking In Wisdom”  Ephesians 5:15-17

 

Ron had three additional questions in the message.

 

 

Ron spoke of Paul (the author of Ephesians) – applying these three questions above to his life – before conversion, his conversion, and his life after conversion.

 

Before Paul’s conversion (the leader of persecution against the church) – the church was praying!  The power of prayer!

 

Making the best use of your time!  A sense of urgency!  Living for God!  Reaching and praying for the lost!

Doing the will of God!  (not yours nor the world’s)  Matthew 6:33

 

 

This is a critical time in our country -in our church – and in your life!

 

 

 

SATURDAY  11/07/20  “Walking In Wisdom”

 

TUESDAY  10/27/20  3 Choices:  to cover up, to conceal, to confess  1 John 1:8-10

 

Last week we talked about the difference between relationship and fellowship.  (1 John 1:5-7)

 

Define relationship.

 

Define fellowship as mentioned in verses 5-7.

 

Define darkness in verses 5-7.

 

How does sin/darkness interrupt our fellowship with God?

 

Describe the difference when we walk in the light.

 

Spend time reading through 1 John 1:8-10 and pray for the Lord to reveal the message of these verses.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  10/21/20  3 Choices 1 John 1:8-10

 

The word “sin” in verse eight is singular – referring to our sin nature.

 

What does verse eight say about a person who says, “we have no sin”?

 

What does verse ten say happens when a person states “we have not sinned”?

 

Why is it easy to confess the sins of others?  To correct them?

 

It’s easy to recognize their sins, but what about ours?

 

Spend time defining sin.  How does it impact you?  How does God feel about our sins?

 

Spend time today asking the Lord to reveal sin in your life and spend time praying for forgiveness and the strength to “walk in the light”!

 

 

 

THURSDAY  10/29/20  3 Choices  1 John 1:8-10

 

Sin is a transgression, a failure before God, an offense, a sin against God!  It is a violation of what God says is true.  Read Psalm 51:4.

 

Our sins hurt ourselves and others; however, nothing compares to the offense to God.  The most dangerous thing you can feel is Nothing!

 

Sin is real!  Sin breaks _______________ with God.

In verse eight John says, “if we say we have no sin,” we are doing what?

1.  _________________________________

2.  _________________________________

 

In essence we are covering our sin, hiding it, lying to ourselves and to others and pretending to be walking with God.

 

The person who covers/conceals – eventually leads to _____________________

_____________________

 

Again there are three options

1.  ________________________

2.  ________________________

3.  ________________________

 

In verse nine John says “if we confess our sins,” God will do what?

 

Describe the meaning of true confession.

 

What did God do showing how serious He sees sin in mankind?

 

What did He do enabling the lost to have a relationship with Him?

 

Enabling the believer to have fellowship with Him?  To renew our fellowship?

 

Verse nine shows we have the option to confess our sins!  (to agree with God, to say the same thing, to be broken)

 

Spend time today praying that you will not cover nor conceal your sins, but confess and renew your fellowship with the Lord.

 

 

 

FRIDAY  10/30/20  1 John 1:8-10  3 Choices

 

John says, don’t cover nor conceal your sin – confess your sins – let God cover your sin in the blood of Jesus Christ.

 

Read 1 John 2:1.  What does John say the believer has?

 

What does he do?

 

Who is he?

 

In verse ten, John says:  “If we say we have not sinned,” – what does this say about the person who is concealing their sin?

 

What is the meaning of Romans 3:23?

 

To claim being without sin is proof a person is not walking with God.

 

You can either give up sin (confess) or give up Hope!  Isaiah 1:18

 

 

If so, you have every reason to be confident!

 

In closing, you have 3 Choices:  Cover – Conceal – Confess.

 

Spend time praying for true repentance in your life and ask the Lord to forgive you and to cleanse you and renew your fellowship!

 

 

 

SATURDAY  10/31/20  3 Choices  1 John 1:8-10

 

Today read through 1 John 2:1-6 and pray for the Lord to speak to you through this passage.

 

Pray for the message tomorrow at 11:00 a.m.!

 

Pray for Wes as he leads worship.

 

Pray for Bro. Jack as he shares God’s Word.

 

Pray for:

 

 

 

 

 

TUESDAY  10/13/20  IT’S REAL  1 John 1:1-4

 

Spend time today praying for a deeper – more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ – giving you assurance – hope and peace.

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY  10/14/20    IT’S REAL!  1 John 1:1-4

 

In these four verses there are three vital facts about the life that is REAL!  JESUS CHRIST!

 

Fact #1:  The life that is REVEALED!  The reality of JESUS CHRIST!

 

God reveals Himself to man in three ways!

How have you seen God:

In creation?_________________________________

 

What evidence does John share in verse one of the reality of Jesus?  List the four!  

 

How can the beliefs destroy our faith – destroy the church?

 

Have you ever had a conversation with anyone who stated Jesus was only a good man or any of the beliefs above?

 

How did you respond?

 

Spend time praying for anyone in your life who may be struggling with the reality of who Jesus Christ is and that He died for us on the cross, enabling us to receive salvation through grace.

 

 

 

THURSDAY  10/15/20    IT’S REAL!  1 John 1:1-4

 

Fact #2:  Experiencing Jesus Christ!  (verse 2)

 

Reflect over your salvation experience!  Describe how you came to that point and what Christ did in your life.

 

Even though it appears John had the advantage of living with – walking with – (hearing Him, seeing Him, learning from Him, and touching Him), what is the greater advantage we have today as followers of Jesus Christ?

 

John 3:3-8,16

1 John 5:9-13

 

Read 1 John 2:29 and 1 John 4:7.  What two characteristics do followers of Christ have that are described in these verses?

 

Read Matthew 7:22-23.  What is Jesus saying in these verses?

 

What is a counterfeit christian?

 

Do you know someone who is struggling with assurance of their salvation?  Spend time praying they will truly experience the peace and confidence that comes when we put our trust in Him as Savior.

 

 

 

FRIDAY  10/16/20  IT’S REAL!  1 John 1:1-4

 

Fact #3:  So we can experience “fellowship and joy”!  (verses 3 & 4)

 

What is true fellowship with God?  Describe!

 

What is true fellowship with other believers?  Describe!

 

How does true fellowship with God and other believers lead to Joy?  Psalm 16:11

 

How important is the church in providing fellowship – community?

 

Read Philippians 4:4-7.  Define true joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

 

Read John 10:10.  Describe the meaning of this verse and what type of life Christ provides when we trust in Him.

 

Spend time today praying through Philippians 4:4-7.

 

 

 

SATURDAY  10/17/20

 

Spend time today praying for: