Point of Grace Online Worship - June 7, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 6.7.20 Trinity Sunday 2020 Sermon Notes - “His Present is His Presence”

Knowing God is vital to Experiencing God!

Acts 232 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

Matthew 28 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 3 16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

John 14 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.

Genesis 1 26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image …!

Deuteronomy 6 4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one 5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

The doctrine of the Trinity reveals the nature of God as a singular unified whole (one) while being three distinct persons Father – Son – Holy Spirit!

One God in three persons – co-equal, co-eternal, co-existent!

This diagram is like the one used in the sermon.

Why?

Ephesians 3

14 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.

Having a triune God means I am Exponentially “LOVED3”

which means …

(As you pray this pray, think about filling in the blank with the width, height, length and/or depth of the love of God. This may enhance your personal receiving of His love every day.)

Father, thank you for loving me …… I receive our _____ love for me,

Jesus, thank you for loving me … … I receive Your ______ love for me,

Holy Spirit, thank you for loving me … … I receive Your _____ love for me.

I love You back so much!

Resources which will help you receive and live in the exponential LOVE3 of our God who is Trinity!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – John 14:25-26,15:26-27 Tues – Ephesians 2:19-22 Wed – Ephesians 3:14-21 Thu – Colossians 1:9-14 Fri – Matthew 28:16-20 Sat - Psalm 100

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional - Check out the devotion for June 3. It is a great read for the topic of the exponential love of God for us.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 31, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.31.20

Pentecost 2020

Sermon Notes

Pentecost 2020 - “His Present is Presence”

Pentecost?

Acts 1 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 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.” 9 After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

“Wait for the gift … … … the Holy Spirit”

Acts 1 12 Then the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city. …. 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

“power” - “able-to-do–ness”

“be my witnesses … … … to the ends of the earth.” - Jesus “raises their gaze” to what He will do through them!

How will they be “able to do” the meaningful life Christ intends for them?

Acts 2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? ….. we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!” 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?” Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine.”

14 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: “Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people…………

22 “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. 23 This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. 24 But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.

32 God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. 36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”

37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

His Present is His Presence

“Able-to-do-ness” flows freely when the Holy Spirit is welcome and present.

Luke 1111 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

Come Holy Spirit. Fill me afresh. I Surrender myself and my agenda and Receive You and Your agenda and now will Act like it!

Resources which will help you receive and live in the gift of the Holy Spirit every day!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Acts 1:1-14 Tues – Acts 2:1-24 Wed – Acts 2:36-47 Thu – Luke 11:9-13 Fri – John 14:15-18, 23-27 Sat - Psalm 51

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Check out bibleproject.com. Look for their videos on the Holy Spirit and Acts.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 24, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.24.20 Sermon Notes

Resurrection Matters – “If We Get a Sword Why Use a Butter Knife?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Armoring Up with the Armor

“and (receive) the short sword of the Spirit which is the word of God”

Closer Look - If we get a “sword” why use a butter knife?

-The word as “rhema” – utterance of God. What God has said, is saying?

Jesus Wields the Sword

Mark 4 Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted[a] by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Deuteronomy 8 Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today, so that you may live and increase and may enter and possess the land the Lord promised on oath to your ancestors. 2 Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands. 3 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. 4 Your clothes did not wear out and your feet did not swell during these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you.

Matthew 4 5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”

Deuteronomy 6 16 Do not put the Lord your God to the test as you did at Massah. 17 Be sure to keep the commands of the Lord your God and the stipulations and decrees he has given you. 18 Do what is right and good in the Lord’s sight, so that it may go well with you and you may go in and take over the good land the Lord promised on oath to your ancestors,

Matthew 4 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”

Deuteronomy 6 13 Fear the Lord your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name. 14 Do not follow other gods, the gods of the peoples around you; 15 for the Lord your God, who is among you, is a jealous God”

11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

Wielding the sword of the Spirit involves giving the Spirit something to wield in me and for me!

Know the Story – Reading and Study

Own the Words – Meditation and Contemplation

- Holy Spirit, please speak to me through Your Word. (Read and Notice!)

- Holy Spirit why this word this day? What are You saying to me? (Contemplate, meditate, ruminate!)

- Own it! (Document, communicate, remember and give thanks!)

Psalm 119 How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. 10 With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. 11 Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You.

How do I “receive the sword of the Spirit” … so I don’t wind up fighting with a plastic knife?

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you “Receive the Sword of the Spirit” everyday!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Psalm 119:9-16 Tues – 2 Timothy 3:12-17 Wed – 2 Peter 1:16-21 Thu – Colossians 3: 15-17 Fri – Hebrews 4:12-16 Sat - Psalm 119:41-48

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read the scripture slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. Begin to own the “word of God” being revealed to you.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

“Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 17, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.17.20 Sermon Notes Resurrection Matters – “Saving My Thinking?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

Armoring Up with the Armor

“receive the helmet of salvation”

Why “receive”?

Why “salvation”, “deliverance” for my head ….my mind … my thinking?

Romans 12 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 8 5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

Our “flesh” for Paul is our “sinful nature” and at its core is “The Self”, “Exalted Self”, “Self Life” which is Self-centered, Self-ruled, self-ish etc.

Romans 8 5 Those who live according to the Self have their minds set on what the Self desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the Self is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the Self is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the Self cannot please God

No wonder Paul says our “mind” needs “saving”, “delivering”, “healing” from being ruled by the Self.

When the Self is ruling or leading our thinking we are so very vulnerable to the evil one!

How do I know when the “Self Life” is running the show in my mind and thinking?

(delton quotes here from “Get Your Life Back” Chapter 9 by John Eldredge)

What’s the fear? We fear that If we surrender “self-rule” (die to self as Jesus would say) we won’t have a life.

Mark 8 34 Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life[b] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.

John 10 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

With Jesus we get “Life to the full!”

How do I “receive” the helmet of salvation? Only one helmet can be on my head.

Taking Off and Receiving

“Jesus, I surrender the Self Life to You. I deny it a place of authority in my life and thinking. Come Holy Spirit, fill me afresh, reign over my life and thinking.”

“Jesus, I invite you into my (our) thinking on ……….. and yield to Your leading!”

Over the top Worship, Praise and Giving Thanks

Make no room for offense.

Cultivate admiration

How do I “receive the helmet of salvation”?

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you “receive the helmet of salvation” everyday!

The book delton read from in the sermon today is “Get Your Life Back” by John Eldredge Check it out!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Romans 12:1-8 Tues – Romans 8:1-8 Wed – Romans 8:9-17 Thu – Colossians 3:1-11 Fri – Isaiah 26:1-4 Sat - Psalm 62

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 10, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship                5.10.20               Sermon Notes

Resurrection Matters – “Am I Armored Up and Ready?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

How do I go from “that’s nice” to “I am armored up and ready for battle”?

Armoring up is an act of faith which includes

·       intentionality, effort and involvement

·       especially with regards to prayer, contemplation and rehearsing scriptural truth.

The Armor

“and having shod your feet with the preparation of the Gospel of peace.”

The Gospel of Peace gives us a kind of preparation, readiness and equipping so we can stand sure footed (with security, agility and confidence) under the assault and not slip, misstep or lose our footing.

Romans 5 Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. 2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

I can be my own worst enemy here.

Choosing relief, retreat and resignation into the well-worn way of anxiety over readiness that comes from the good news of peace.

Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Do not underestimate the transformational power of “peace with God” when consistently enjoyed!

“among all these things having taken up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one;”

The enemy’s flaming arrows are incredibly intimidating at a time we need to be confident and courageous.

Faith is the very real yet unseen relational connection with God and all the abundance He has for us!

Ephesians 2 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.

My sinful self will cling to my feelings and circumstances as real and true

but my faith will cling a “greater real” and the “greater true” from my Father in Heaven.

How do I “fit my feet with readiness” and “take up the shield of faith”?

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you “fit your feet with readiness” and the take up the “Shield of Faith” every day!

This is the app shared in the message just go to your app store to download it: The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – Romans 5:1-5 Tues – Ephesians 2:1-10 Wed – Ephesians 2:14-22 Thu – 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 Fri – Romans 8:12-17 Sat - Lamentations 3:18-24

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcasts etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - May 3, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 5.3.20 Sermon Notes

Resurrection Matters – “Are you dressed? …………… for battle?”

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

How do I go from “that’s nice” to “I am armored up and ready for battle”?

Armoring up is an act of faith which includes

·       intentionality, effort and involvement

·       especially with regards to prayer, contemplation and rehearsing scriptural truth.

In unpacking the words of the Apostle Paul we will better grasp

·       the profound relevance of this armor,

·       what is at stake in the battle

·       the relatively simple reality of “armoring up” every day and

·       the profound yet mysterious results - winning against evil.

The Armor

“Stand, therefore, having belted your waist with truth,”

Is “truth” a settled issue for you? What is the “truth”? Who is the Truth?

Jesus claimed to be Truth and claimed his teachings were the truth!

Satan is a “liar” so we desperately need to receive Jesus as Truth and His word about

·       God,

·       ourselves,

·       others and

·       how life really works …

…as “truths” for us to live by.

John 14 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

John 8 Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

and having clothed yourselves with the breastplate of righteousness,”

The breastplate protects what?

Righteousness - has to do with identity, approval, acceptableness, “being enough”, measuring up, worth, status, value, loveable-ness etc.

I need “righteousness” – where do I go and how do I get it?

Earning, measuring up and proving myself is the vocabulary of “righteousness” in the kingdom of people.

Grace, gift and love are the vocabulary of “righteousness” in the kingdom of God.

Jesus is my “righteousness” as a free gift received by faith I don’t have to look anywhere else or perform for it.

The “accuser” will send me searching, striving, trying harder to measure up.

Romans 1 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes… 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last… just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.”

John 1 12 Yet to all who did receive him (Jesus), to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God

1 John 3 See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

How can I intentionally pray, contemplate and rehearse the armor on to me every day?

Resources which will help you put on the “Belt of Truth” and the “Breastplate of Righteousness?” every day!

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: Mon – John 8:31-41 Tues – John 14:1-14 Wed – Ephesians 6:10-18 Thu – Romans 3:21-31 Fri – Romans 8:1-11 Sat - Psalm 108:1-5

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer)

Point of Grace Online Worship - April 26, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 4.26.2020 

Sermon Notes 

Resurrection Matters – “How’s Your Thinking?” 

Ephesians 6 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 

John 10 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 

John 8 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. 

1 Peter 5 8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, 

James 4 6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 

Right Thinking about The Problem 

• I am born into a world at war with a conscienceless, lying enemy that wants to steal, kill and destroy especially as I move toward Jesus and experience the life He offers. 

• The devil works in a triple alliance with my broken sinful nature and a world of broken sinful people against me and all children of God through faith in Jesus. 

Right Thinking about The Solution 

• God has come to rescue us in Jesus. Jesus dealt with the triple alliance against me! 

Colossians 1 13 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. 

• Through faith in the crucified and risen Jesus I have tremendous resources available every day to wage war on the battlefield and win. 

Ephesians 6 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 

How’s my thinking about the situation I and mine are in? 

Where am I vulnerable to lies? 

When is it hard to access truth? 

Does my “operating system” lens include the truth about my enemies and how they work? 

Facebook Live – Thursday at 7 pm. 

Resources which will help you ask, “How’s my thinking about the situation I and mine are in?” everyday! 

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week: 

Mon – Ephesians 6:10-18 Tues – Matthew 4:1-11 Wed – 1 Peter 5:5-11 Thu – James 4:1-10 Fri – Luke 10:17-24 Sat - Revelation 12:7-17 

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths... Just be... “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!” 

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts. 

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart. 

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved. 

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day) 

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book) 

Restoration Year by John Eldredge – A 365 Day Devotional 

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcast etc 

Moving Mountains by John Eldredge (excellent teaching on spiritual warfare and prayer) 

Point of Grace Online Worship - April 19, 2020

Point of Grace Online Worship 4.19.2020 Sermon Notes

Resurrection Matters – When “When?” is not our best question.

Jeremiah 29 This is the text of the letter that the prophet Jeremiah sent from Jerusalem to the surviving elders among the exiles and to the priests, the prophets and all the other people Nebuchadnezzar had carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon…. It said: 4 This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 “Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. 6 Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. 7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” 8 Yes, this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: “Do not let the prophets and diviners among you deceive you. Do not listen to the dreams you encourage them to have. 9 They are prophesying lies to you in my name. I have not sent them,” declares the LORD. 10 This is what the LORD says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. 11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the LORD, “and will bring you back from captivity.

Is “When?” our best question now?

The Resurrection of Jesus means I get to ask a better question.

“Jesus, How are you working … in me, … for me, … through me?”

“Jesus, how are you working in me?” – God loves me too much to leave me the way I am!

Romans 6 9 For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 10 The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. 11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.

“Jesus, how are you working for me?”

Ephesians 1 18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms.

With Resurrected Jesus at work “for me and in me” I get to let go of “easy me” and go for “better me”!

“Jesus, how are You working through me?”

Acts 1 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 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.”

Jesus, how are you working in me, for me, through me every day?

Facebook Live – Thursday at 7 pm.

Resources which will help you ask every day: “Jesus, how are You working in me, for me and through me?”

Daily Scripture Readings for this Week:

Mon – Ephesians 1:17-23

Tues – Jeremiah 19:1-14

Wed – Romans 6:1-7

Thu – Romans 6:8-14

Fri – Acts 1:1-8

Sat - Psalm 13

Solitude – Spend TWO minutes quietly alone. Take some deep breaths… Just be… “Holy Spirit, speak to me through Your Word! I rest in You!”

Scripture – Read slowly, out loud if possible, listen, reread, dwell, notice words & phrases you are drawn to & return there! Reflect on what you are noticing and where He is leading your thoughts.

Prayer – Have a conversation with God, “What are You saying to me, God?” Talk about what you notice is on your heart.

Finish - Spend TWO minutes again with God, resting and listening and being loved.

The “One Minute Pause” App by Ransomed Heart (use is multiple times every day)

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young (Devotional Book)

Restoration Year by John Eldridge – A 365 Day Devotional

Ransomed Heart website and app - many helpful resources including prayers, readings, podcasts, etc.