WHY IT’S IMPORTANT //

Supernatural authority is the inheritance of everyone who is “In Christ”. A part of the kingdom work of every believer is to pray in alignment with the will of God to see “His Kingdom come on Earth as it is in Heaven” (Matt 6:10). When we ask God to reveal his plans to us for ourselves, our neighborhoods, our cities etc. we can pray with the assurance that we have authority to allow permission and to forbid permission. This authority only comes from knowing the will of God, agreeing with the will of God and declaring the will of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Most scholars believe that the book of Matthew was written by the Apostle Matthew sometime within 50AD-79AD. In this passage Jesus is speaking to the disciples about His identity. He is questioning them to see if they truly understand who He is. When Simon-Peter replies that he is the Christ, Jesus states that he will build his gathering of people (the church) on this same revelation. Those same people will have authority over every power of hell and will have the keys (authority) from Jesus to permit and forbid regarding the spiritual realm.

Matthew 16:13-19 NLT

13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”

14 “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.”

15 Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?”

16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

17 Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. 

18 Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. 

19 And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

God presents two choices in Proverbs: to live as a fool (ignorant of God’s morality) or to live as a wise person who submits to God’s wisdom in humility. Wisdom is a gift from God, as he makes known to us the right way to live in order to be fruitful and honor Him. This requires humility on our part as we submit ourselves ad exchange our thoughts and ways for His.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The writer of Proverbs personifies Wisdom as a person shouting in the streets and crying out in the public square. This is a picture of how the wisdom of God is available to us, yet must be received and exchanged for foolishness. Proverbs constantly gives warning for those who reject wisdom and admonishment for those who choose to receive it.

Proverbs 1: 20-33 NLT

20 Wisdom shouts in the streets.
    She cries out in the public square.
21 She calls to the crowds along the main street,
    to those gathered in front of the city gate:
22 “How long, you simpletons,
    will you insist on being simpleminded?
How long will you mockers relish your mocking?
    How long will you fools hate knowledge?
23 Come and listen to my counsel.
I’ll share my heart with you
    and make you wise.
24 “I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come.
    I reached out to you, but you paid no attention.
25 You ignored my advice
    and rejected the correction I offered.
26 So I will laugh when you are in trouble!
    I will mock you when disaster overtakes you—
27 when calamity overtakes you like a storm,
    when disaster engulfs you like a cyclone,
    and anguish and distress overwhelm you.
28 “When they cry for help, I will not answer.
    Though they anxiously search for me, they will not find me.
29 For they hated knowledge
    and chose not to fear the Lord.
30 They rejected my advice
    and paid no attention when I corrected them.
31 Therefore, they must eat the bitter fruit of living their own way,
    choking on their own schemes.
32 For simpletons turn away from me—to death.
    Fools are destroyed by their own complacency.
33 But all who listen to me will live in peace,
    untroubled by fear of harm.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

Many of us relate to God as though we are orphans, instead of the sons and daughters that he has made us through Jesus. This affects our ability to perceive ourselves and God correctly. God made us sons and daughters before we did anything to earn a position in his family. It’s because of our position that we can be connected to His Spirit as we walk through our life. Once we understand God’s love and acceptance for us it frees us from shame and fear, enabling us to become more like Jesus.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The book of Romans was written by Paul the Apostle to the church in Rome around AD 57. Paul reminds the believers that they are children of God, led by The Spirit of God and able to relate to The Father the same way that Jesus did. As children of God, we are also heirs, together with Christ — we get to share in his glory, which is something far greater than what we can even imagine.

Rom 8:12-30 NIV

12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. 

13 For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

14 For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. 

15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” 

16 The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 

17 Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 

19 For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. 

20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 

21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 

23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. 

24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? 

25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

26 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 

27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 

29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 

30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT //

It’s important that we do the work of wholeness in our lives. Sanctification is the process that the Holy Spirit leads us through to become like Jesus. He offers us healing in exchange for brokenness, freedom in exchange for bondage and wisdom in exchange for foolishness. In order to truly be whole we must take hold of all three of these things.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Isaiah was a prophet to Judah prior to the Babylonian exile. He starting his ministry around 740BC. Isaiah 61 is a messianic prophecy, meaning it speaks of Israel’s coming messiah, Jesus. In Luke 4 Jesus is beginning his appointed time of public ministry and he picks up the scroll of Isaiah to read this passage. He then declares that “this scripture is fulfilled in their hearing”. This passage powerfully outlines the assignment of the messiah and what His people will do on the Earth to partner with Him in Kingdom work.

Isaiah 61:1-4 NIV

1 The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
    because the Lord has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
    to proclaim freedom for the captives
    and release from darkness for the prisoners,[blind]
2 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor
    and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3     and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
    instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
    instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
    instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
    a planting of the Lord
    for the display of his splendor.

4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins
    and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
    that have been devastated for generations.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT //

Supernatural authority is the inheritance of everyone who is “In Christ”. A part of the kingdom work of every believer is to pray in alignment with the will of God to see “His Kingdom come on Earth as it is in Heaven” (Matt 6:10). When we ask God to reveal his plans to us for ourselves, our neighborhoods, our cities etc. we can pray with the assurance that we have authority to allow permission and to forbid permission. This authority only comes from knowing the will of God, agreeing with the will of God and declaring the will of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Most scholars believe that the book of Matthew was written by the Apostle Matthew sometime within 50AD-79AD. In this passage Jesus is speaking to the disciples about His identity. He is questioning them to see if they truly understand who He is. When Simon-Peter replies that he is the Christ, Jesus states that he will build his gathering of people (the church) on this same revelation. Those same people will have authority over every power of hell and will have the keys (authority) from Jesus to permit and forbid regarding the spiritual realm.

Matthew 16:13-19 NLT

13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”

14 “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one of the other prophets.”

15 Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?”

16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”

17 Jesus replied, “You are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. 

18 Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ‘rock’), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. 

19 And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

We live in a world that is impacted by the spiritual realm. It’s important to remember that the spiritual realm is very real, and in order to win battles here on earth, such as winning souls for God’s Kingdom, we need to first win them in the spirit realm. Our prayers and the way we intercede are powerful weapons against darkness, and prepares the way so that the veil can be removed enabling people to be open to the truth about Jesus

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The apostle Paul wrote the second series of letters to the church in Corinth to further instruct them in the faith, calling them to stand firm and be obedient in their walks with Christ. In this particular letter, he offers encouragement to the church, reminding them of an eternal, kingdom perspective that keeps our eyes fixed on Christ instead of our circumstances. 

2 Cor 5:1-10 NIV

1 For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 

2 Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, 

3 because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 

4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. 

5 Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

6 Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. 

7 For we live by faith, not by sight. 

8 We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 

9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

WHY IT MATTERS //

Spiritual battles are real and every Christian will experience battles throughout their lives, to some degree. The good news is that we have received the full armor of God, to stand against the devil’s schemes. This means that we should not be hopeless in our struggles and battles. God has given us insight on how we defeat the enemy. 

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Paul wrote this letter around AD 60, and it could have been a circular letter, intended for many of the churches in the area. Ephesus was a center for commerce and it hosted the statue of the  pagan goddess Diana, which speaks of it’s spiritual condition. Paul spent a number of years evangelizing to the Ephesians, and the church grew rapidly, but not without fault. In this letter Paul encourages his readers to gain deeper understanding into the dimensions of God’s eternal purpose and grace.

Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV

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.

WHY IT MATTERS //

What we observe outwardly in our life (what’s coming out of our hearts) is communicating what’s happening internally (areas that need attention). God’s word tells us that he will transform us, by the renewal of our minds (Rom 12:2), but we play a role in the renewal process; we are called to not conform to the patterns of this world. Christ-likeness is a journey that takes time, and it’s important that we are aware of the internal conflict between the flesh and the Spirit (Gal. 5:17), so that we can submit selfish desires under the Lordship of Jesus. 

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Paul wrote to the churches in southern Galatia after helping them get started on his first missionary journey to Asia Minor. When he arrived in Antioch, Paul received a report that the churches he had started in Galatia had fallen into hard times and confusion. A group of people sought to make living under the Mosaic Law a requirement of the Christian faith. Paul wrote the letter a few months before his attendance at the Jerusalem Council in AD 49, a meeting where the apostles would take up this very topic.

Gal 5:13-26 MSG

13-15 It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?

16-18 My counsel is this: Live freely, animated and motivated by God’s Spirit. Then you won’t feed the compulsions of selfishness. For there is a root of sinful self-interest in us that is at odds with a free spirit, just as the free spirit is incompatible with selfishness. These two ways of life are antithetical, so that you cannot live at times one way and at times another way according to how you feel on any given day. Why don’t you choose to be led by the Spirit and so escape the erratic compulsions of a law-dominated existence?

19-21 It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on.

This isn’t the first time I have warned you, you know. If you use your freedom this way, you will not inherit God’s kingdom.

22-23 But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

23-24 Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified.

25-26 Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original.

WHY IT MATTERS //

The parable of the sower is a parable about what happens to the seed i.e the word of God when it lands on different kinds of soil, i.e. a picture of a person’s heart condition. Last week we studied why Jesus speaks in parables and why a calloused heart, i.e. a heart that is waterlogged prevents the fresh revelation (the Spirit) of God to flow through which brings understanding of the secrets of the Kingdom of heaven. But a person with a calloused heart is ever hearing and seeing but not understanding. In this week’s chapter, Jesus gives the explanation of the parable of the sower and reveals what the different kinds of soil represent.  

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT //  

The Gospel of Matthew doesn’t name an author, but early scholars unanimously agree that Matthew, one of the 12 Apostles, was the author. Most likely it was written around 50-60 A.D. This book was written in Greek, so the readers must have been Greek-speaking, but many were probably also Jewish. Matthew’s main focus throughout the book is to show that Jesus is the messiah (Christ in Jewish). Jesus shared the parable of the sower during his ministry in Galilee, after he has commissioned the 12 Apostles. 

Matt 13:18-23 NIV

18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 

19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 

20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 

21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 

22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.

23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

Last week we studied the parable of the sower, which talks about what happens to the seed i.e the word of God when it lands on different kinds of soil, i.e. a picture of a person’s heart condition. In this passage, Jesus answers the disciples’ question about why he speaks in parables. Jesus says that the “knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you”. And he continues by quoting Isaiah saying that they do not understand because their heart has become calloused i.e. their heart is hardened and therefore they cannot hear or see. How do we make sure that our hearts stay tender and do not turn calloused?

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT //  

The Gospel of Matthew doesn’t name an author, but early scholars unanimously agree that Matthew, one of the 12 Apostles, was the author. Most likely it was written around 50-60 A.D. This book was written in Greek, so the readers must have been Greek-speaking, but many were probably also Jewish. Matthew’s main focus throughout the book is to show that Jesus is the messiah (Christ in Jewish). Jesus shared the parable of the sower during his ministry in Galilee, after he has commissioned the 12 Apostles. 

Matthew 13:10-17 NIV

10 The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”

11 He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 

12 Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 

13 This is why I speak to them in parables:

“Though seeing, they do not see;

    though hearing, they do not hear or understand.

14 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:

“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding;

    you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.

15 For this people’s heart has become calloused;

    they hardly hear with their ears,

    and they have closed their eyes.

Otherwise they might see with their eyes,

    hear with their ears,

    understand with their hearts

and turn, and I would heal them.’

16 But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. 

17 For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

WHY IT MATTERS //

The parable of the sower is a parable about what happens to the seed i.e the word of God when it lands on different kinds of soil, i.e. a picture of a person’s heart condition.  Jesus speaks about four different soils: 1. along the path, 2. shallow rocky places, 3. among thorns, 4. good soil. Each of these represent a heart condition, and the seed is successful to grow and multiply only in the good soil. What heart conditions do the four soils represent and how can we prepare our hearts to be a good soil that produces a multitude of that which was sowed?

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The Gospel of Matthew doesn’t name an author, but early scholars unanimously agree that Matthew, one of the 12 Apostles, was the author. It was most likely was written around 50-60 A.D, for a Jewish and Greek-speaking audience since it was written in Greek. Matthew’s main focus throughout the book is to show that Jesus is the messiah (Christ in Jewish). Jesus shared the parable of the sower during his ministry in Galilee, after he had commissioned the 12 Apostles. 

Matthew 13:1-9 NIV

1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. 

2 Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. 

3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. 

4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 

5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 

6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 

7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 

8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 

9 Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

Life with God is not devoid of effort. There are things God calls us to do. What matters is what we are doing, why we are doing it and whose strength we are using to do it. When we work from God’s grace to do things that He asks us to do we will find that there is provision and peace. When we do things without his guidance, from our own strength, we will often find ourselves toiling and striving without peace.

In Genesis 2 we see God plant a fruitful garden (vs 9) then He places Adam in the middle of it to work and take care of it (vs 15). This is a picture of working from grace; receiving an assignment from God along with his provision to steward the work that God initiates. Then in Genesis 3:17-19 we read the curse that Adam received in response to breaking covenant with God. Now through sweat and toil he will plant himself and he will reap little for his effort. Jesus has broken every curse that sin brought into the world. This include the curse of toiling for little fruit. God desires for us to live fruitful lives, His way.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The book of Matthew is one of four gospels written to give an account of the life and major events of the ministry of Jesus. In His Sermon on the Mount Jesus teaches us to work for things that will last for eternity, not simply things that are temporal. The work that God calls us to do lays up treasure for us in heaven that can never be stolen or destroyed.

Matthew 6:25-34 NIV

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.Are you not much more valuable than they?
27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 
29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 
30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 
31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 
32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 
34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

WHY IT MATTERS //

Life with God is not devoid of effort. There are things God calls us to do. What matters is what we are doing, why we are doing it and whose strength we are using to do it. When we work from God’s grace to do things that He asks us to do we will find that there is provision and peace. When we do things without his guidance, from our own strength, we will often find ourselves toiling and striving without peace.

In Genesis 2 we see God plant a fruitful garden (vs 9) then He places Adam in the middle of it to work and take care of it (vs 15). This is a picture of working from grace; receiving an assignment from God along with his provision to steward the work that God initiates. Then in Genesis 3:17-19 we read the curse that Adam received in response to breaking covenant with God. Now through sweat and toil he will plant himself and he will reap little for his effort. Jesus has broken every curse that sin brought into the world. This include the curse of toiling for little fruit. God desires for us to live fruitful lives, His way.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The book of Matthew is one of four gospels written to give an account of the life and major events of the ministry of Jesus. In His Sermon on the Mount Jesus teaches us to work for things that will last for eternity, not simply things that are temporal. The work that God calls us to do lays up treasure for us in heaven that can never be stolen or destroyed.

Matthew 6:19-24 NIV

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.
20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 
23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

WHY IT MATTERS //

Life with God is not devoid of effort. There are things God calls us to do. What matters is what we are doing, why we are doing it and whose strength we are using to do it. When we work from God’s grace to do things that He asks us to do we will find that there is provision and peace. When we do things without his guidance, from our own strength, we will often find ourselves toiling and striving without peace.

In Genesis 2 we see God plant a fruitful garden (vs 9) then He places Adam in the middle of it to work and take care of it (vs 15). This is a picture of working from grace; receiving an assignment from God along with his provision to steward the work that God initiates. Then in Genesis 3:17-19 we read the curse that Adam received in response to breaking covenant with God. Now through sweat and toil he will plant himself and he will reap little for his effort. Jesus has broken every curse that sin brought into the world. This include the curse of toiling for little fruit. God desires for us to live fruitful lives, His way.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

The Psalms are a collection of 5 books of sacred hymns and songs from ancient Israel. Many of them were written by King David himself, though the authorship of every Psalm is not known. Psalm 127 in particular is attributed to King Solomon who lived 990-931BC. This Psalm speaks of God’s provision for those who build from his rest and initiation.

Psalm 127 1-2 NLT

1 Unless the Lord builds a house,
the work of the builders is wasted.
Unless the Lord protects a city,
guarding it with sentries will do no good.

2 It is useless for you to work so hard
from early morning until late at night,
anxiously working for food to eat;
for God gives rest to his loved ones.

WHY IT MATTERS //

Pentecost, which in Greek means “the 50th day” is during Shavuot or the festival of weeks. It’s celebrated fifty days after Passover. This was the day that God gave the law to Moses and also the day when the Holy Spirit filled the people who were assembled in the upper room. John the Baptist foretold this event; he baptized his disciples with water, which is associated with repentance (i.e. turning away from a sinful lifestyle), but he also preached about another baptism, one of the Holy Spirit (grace) and fire (power). Repentance and living a life that bears good fruit is hard, practically impossible, without the grace of God and without the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Fortunately, we do not need to strive for holiness in our own strength, the Holy Spirit is a gift given to all who repent and believe in Jesus, and works inside of us to transform us into the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:6, Romans 12:2).

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In Matthew, John the Baptist mentions three different baptisms: one of water, Holy Spirit and fire. The water baptism symbolizes the burial of the “old man” and the forgiveness of sin. The latter two are baptisms that come from Jesus, and are available to every believer. We see this take place for the first time in Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit filled the believers in the upper room.

Matthew 3:1-11 NIV

1 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 

2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 

3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:

“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for the Lord,

    make straight paths for him.’”

4 John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 

5 People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan.

6 Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.

7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? 

8 Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. 

9 And do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. 

10 The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.

11 “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 

WHY IT MATTERS // 

In Proverbs 1:7 we read that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools (ie. those who reject God’s moral standards) despise wisdom and instruction.” In our modern culture it can be easy to view God without the honor that he deserves. When the Bible speaks of the “fear” that we should have towards God it refers to a deep respect, honor and reverence; an awareness that we are subject to Him and that He possesses all power and authority. It is truly an amazing reality that our all-powerful God invites us into covenant with Him and that He co-labors with us. In making God approachable we can mistakenly remove his Awe and Holiness, bringing him down to human equality. In Isaiah 55:8-9 God reveals that his thoughts and his ways are both “different” and “better” than the natural thoughts and ways of mankind. It is only through a correct positioning of humility before Him that we are able to receive His greater knowledge and wisdom. When we elevate ourselves (our thoughts, ideas, ways) before Him the Bible calls this sinful response pride. When we humble ourselves before Him he chooses to elevate us because we have been given a righteousness we do not deserve through Jesus. From this righteous standing we can exchange the ways of man for the ways of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the book of Proverbs we see God personified as “Wisdom” itself.; That wisdom is not something God has, but rather it is something he is. God is the source and compass of our morality and he decides the difference between what is right and what is wrong. By responding rightly to God (with reverence) we receive, not only knowledge from Him concerning how to live (intellectual), but we actually receive Him (union with his nature). Wisdom and righteousness become byproducts of our lives as we are unified with Jesus, positioned in the fear of God.

Proverbs 9:1-12 NLT

1 Wisdom has built her house;
    she has carved its seven columns.
2 She has prepared a great banquet,
    mixed the wines, and set the table.
3 She has sent her servants to invite everyone to come.
    She calls out from the heights overlooking the city.
4 “Come in with me,” she urges the simple.
    To those who lack good judgment, she says,
5 “Come, eat my food,
    and drink the wine I have mixed.
6 Leave your simple ways behind, and begin to live;
    learn to use good judgment.”
7 Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return.
    Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt.
8 So don’t bother correcting mockers;
    they will only hate you.
But correct the wise,
    and they will love you.
9 Instruct the wise,
    and they will be even wiser.
Teach the righteous,
    and they will learn even more.
10 Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom.
    Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.
11 Wisdom will multiply your days
    and add years to your life.
12 If you become wise, you will be the one to benefit.
    If you scorn wisdom, you will be the one to suffer.

WHY IT MATTERS // 

In Proverbs 1:7 we read that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools (ie. those who reject God’s moral standards) despise wisdom and instruction.” In our modern culture it can be easy to view God without the honor that he deserves. When the Bible speaks of the “fear” that we should have towards God it refers to a deep respect, honor and reverence; an awareness that we are subject to Him and that He possesses all power and authority. It is truly an amazing reality that our all-powerful God invites us into covenant with Him and that He co-labors with us. In making God approachable we can mistakenly remove his Awe and Holiness, bringing him down to human equality. In Isaiah 55:8-9 God reveals that his thoughts and his ways are both “different” and “better” than the natural thoughts and ways of mankind. It is only through a correct positioning of humility before Him that we are able to receive His greater knowledge and wisdom. When we elevate ourselves (our thoughts, ideas, ways) before Him the Bible calls this sinful response pride. When we humble ourselves before Him he chooses to elevate us because we have been given a righteousness we do not deserve through Jesus. From this righteous standing we can exchange the ways of man for the ways of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the book of Proverbs we see God personified as “Wisdom” itself.; That wisdom is not something God has, but rather it is something he is. God is the source and compass of our morality and he decides the difference between what is right and what is wrong. By responding rightly to God (with reverence) we receive, not only knowledge from Him concerning how to live (intellectual), but we actually receive Him (union with his nature). Wisdom and righteousness become byproducts of our lives as we are unified with Jesus, positioned in the fear of God.

Proverbs 4:1-13 NLT

1 My children, listen when your father corrects you.
    Pay attention and learn good judgment,
2 for I am giving you good guidance.
    Don’t turn away from my instructions.
3 For I, too, was once my father’s son,
    tenderly loved as my mother’s only child.
4 My father taught me,
“Take my words to heart.
    Follow my commands, and you will live.
5 Get wisdom; develop good judgment.
    Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.
6 Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.
    Love her, and she will guard you.
7 Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!
    And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.
8 If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.
    Embrace her, and she will honor you.
9 She will place a lovely wreath on your head;
    she will present you with a beautiful crown.”
10 My child, listen to me and do as I say,
    and you will have a long, good life.
11 I will teach you wisdom’s ways
    and lead you in straight paths.
12 When you walk, you won’t be held back;
    when you run, you won’t stumble.
13 Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go.
    Guard them, for they are the key to life.

WHY IT MATTERS // 

In Proverbs 1:7 we read that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools (ie. those who reject God’s moral standards) despise wisdom and instruction.” In our modern culture it can be easy to view God without the honor that he deserves. When the Bible speaks of the “fear” that we should have towards God it refers to a deep respect, honor and reverence; an awareness that we are subject to Him and that He possesses all power and authority. It is truly an amazing reality that our all-powerful God invites us into covenant with Him and that He co-labors with us. In making God approachable we can mistakenly remove his Awe and Holiness, bringing him down to human equality. In Isaiah 55:8-9 God reveals that his thoughts and his ways are both “different” and “better” than the natural thoughts and ways of mankind. It is only through a correct positioning of humility before Him that we are able to receive His greater knowledge and wisdom. When we elevate ourselves (our thoughts, ideas, ways) before Him the Bible calls this sinful response pride. When we humble ourselves before Him he chooses to elevate us because we have been given a righteousness we do not deserve through Jesus. From this righteous standing we can exchange the ways of man for the ways of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the book of Proverbs we see God personified as “Wisdom” itself.; That wisdom is not something God has, but rather it is something he is. God is the source and compass of our morality and he decides the difference between what is right and what is wrong. By responding rightly to God (with reverence) we receive, not only knowledge from Him concerning how to live (intellectual), but we actually receive Him (union with his nature). Wisdom and righteousness become byproducts of our lives as we are unified with Jesus, positioned in the fear of God.

Proverbs 3:7-15 NLT

7 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.
    Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
8 Then you will have healing for your body
    and strength for your bones.

9 Honor the Lord with your wealth
    and with the best part of everything you produce.
10 Then he will fill your barns with grain,
    and your vats will overflow with good wine.

11 My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline,
    and don’t be upset when he corrects you.
12 For the Lord corrects those he loves,
    just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.

13 Joyful is the person who finds wisdom,
    the one who gains understanding.
14 For wisdom is more profitable than silver,
    and her wages are better than gold.
15 Wisdom is more precious than rubies;
    nothing you desire can compare with her.

WHY IT MATTERS // 

In Proverbs 1:7 we read that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools (ie. those who reject God’s moral standards) despise wisdom and instruction.” In our modern culture it can be easy to view God without the honor that he deserves. When the Bible speaks of the “fear” that we should have towards God it refers to a deep respect, honor and reverence; an awareness that we are subject to Him and that He possesses all power and authority. It is truly an amazing reality that our all-powerful God invites us into covenant with Him and that He co-labors with us. In making God approachable we can mistakenly remove his Awe and Holiness, bringing him down to human equality. In Isaiah 55:8-9 God reveals that his thoughts and his ways are both “different” and “better” than the natural thoughts and ways of mankind. It is only through a correct positioning of humility before Him that we are able to receive His greater knowledge and wisdom. When we elevate ourselves (our thoughts, ideas, ways) before Him the Bible calls this sinful response pride. When we humble ourselves before Him he chooses to elevate us because we have been given a righteousness we do not deserve through Jesus. From this righteous standing we can exchange the ways of man for the ways of God.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the book of Proverbs we see God personified as “Wisdom” itself.; That wisdom is not something God has, but rather it is something he is. God is the source and compass of our morality and he decides the difference between what is right and what is wrong. By responding rightly to God (with reverence) we receive, not only knowledge from Him concerning how to live (intellectual), but we actually receive Him (union with his nature). Wisdom and righteousness become byproducts of our lives as we are unified with Jesus, positioned in the fear of God.

Proverbs 2:1-15 NLT

1 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.
8 He guards the paths of the just
    and protects those who are faithful to him.
9 Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair,
    and you will find the right way to go.
10 For wisdom will enter your heart,
    and knowledge will fill you with joy.
11 Wise choices will watch over you.
    Understanding will keep you safe.
12 Wisdom will save you from evil people,
    from those whose words are twisted.
13 These men turn from the right way
    to walk down dark paths.
14 They take pleasure in doing wrong,
    and they enjoy the twisted ways of evil.
15 Their actions are crooked,
    and their ways are wrong.

WHY IT MATTERS //

What we meditate on and what we allow into our mind, affects our thoughts, emotions and our spirit. It is important that we protect our mind, heart and spirit from allowing fear to creep in, especially at a time of uncertainty. Fear is a scheme of the enemy to paralyze people and to make them doubt God’s character and promises. The world might react with fear, but we, as believers in Christ, have an eternal hope that surpasses our worldly circumstances. Psalm 91 is a declaration about God’s unwavering character and the protection and refuge that he provides for us, regardless of what comes against us. We shouldn’t live in fear, but instead we should meditate on his word and his promises, and declare them over our life, our families lives, and over our cities, which changes atmospheres and brings glory to God. 

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

Psalm 91 was most likely written by David because it has similarities to a few other psalms he wrote . However, since this psalm is without a title, the Jewish tradition is to ascribe the last mentioned author, which in this case is Moses in Ps. 90. Either way, if the author was King David or Moses, both had personally experienced God’s mighty power and protection in their own lives in the midst of trouble. This psalm is a powerful declaration of God’s omnipotence (all powerful), omniscient (all knowing), and omnipresence (God is everywhere at the same time), and his promises for everyone who lives in close fellowship with God. 

Psalm 91 NIV

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High

    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my

refuge and my fortress,

  my God, in whom I trust.”

3 Surely he will save you

from the fowler’s snare  and

from the deadly pestilence.

4 He will cover you with his feathers,

    and under his wings you will find refuge;

    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

5 You will not fear the terror of night,

    nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,

    nor the plague that destroys at midday.

7 A thousand may fall at your side,

    ten thousand at your right hand,

    but it will not come near you.

8 You will only observe with your eyes

    and see the punishment of the wicked.

9 If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”

    and you make the Most High your dwelling,

10 no harm will overtake you,

    no disaster will come near your tent.

11 For he will command his angels concerning you

    to guard you in all your ways;

12 they will lift you up in their hands,

    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

13 You will tread on the lion and the cobra;

    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

14 “Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;

    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

15 He will call on me, and I will answer him;

    I will be with him in trouble,

    I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life I will satisfy him

    and show him my salvation.”

WHY IT MATTERS //

“This will be a day for you to always remember. I want you and all generations after you to commemorate this day with a festival to Me. Celebrate this feast as a perpetual ordinance, a permanent part of your life together” (Exodus 12:14). Passover is a traditional Jewish holiday that lasts for 7 days, remembering how God delivered the Israelites from Egypt and in particular,  delivered them from the angel of death—the last of the ten plagues He brings upon the Egyptians. On the First Passover, God tells the Israelites to paint the blood of the lamb on the doorposts of their homes as a sign to the angel to “pass over” them and spare their firstborn child from death. 

In observing Passover, we remember God’s faithfulness towards His people, and recognize the significance of Passover in preparation for Good Friday, where Jesus became the ultimate sacrificial Lamb for our sins so that God would spare us from His judgment.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the Book of Exodus, Moses recounts the story of God leading the Israelites out of Egypt and towards the promised land. Throughout these chapters, we see God’s incredible faithfulness to His people and to His Word, to bring deliverance and salvation to a people very much held captive by the Egyptians and by their own fear/idols. Despite the Israelites’ continual doubt and rebellion against God, God remembers His promise and continues to lead them towards the land he promised to them. In this particular passage, God gives the Israelites instructions on how to prepare themselves and their homes for Passover. The blood of the lamb serves as a sign to the Lord to pass over the Israelites, so that everyone protected by the blood will not be destroyed along with the Egyptians.

Exodus 12:21-28 NIV

21 Then Moses summoned all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go at once and select the animals for your families and slaughter the Passover lamb. 

22 Take a bunch of hyssop, dip it into the blood in the basin and put some of the blood on the top and on both sides of the doorframe. None of you shall go out of the door of your house until morning. 

23 When the Lord goes through the land to strike down the Egyptians, he will see the blood on the top and sides of the doorframe and will pass over that doorway, and he will not permit the destroyer to enter your houses and strike you down.

24 “Obey these instructions as a lasting ordinance for you and your descendants. 

25 When you enter the land that the Lord will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony. 

26 And when your children ask you, ‘What does this ceremony mean to you?’ 

27 then tell them, ‘It is the Passover sacrifice to the Lord, who passed over the houses of the Israelites in Egypt and spared our homes when he struck down the Egyptians.’” Then the people bowed down and worshiped. 

28 The Israelites did just what the Lord commanded Moses and Aaron.

WHY IT MATTERS //

“This will be a day for you to always remember. I want you and all generations after you to commemorate this day with a festival to Me. Celebrate this feast as a perpetual ordinance, a permanent part of your life together” (Exodus 12:14). Passover is a traditional Jewish holiday that lasts for 7 days, remembering how God delivered the Israelites from Egypt and in particular,  delivered them from the angel of death—the last of the ten plagues He brings upon the Egyptians. On the First Passover, God tells the Israelites to paint the blood of the lamb on the doorposts of their homes as a sign to the angel to “pass over” them and spare their firstborn child from death. 

In observing Passover, we remember God’s faithfulness towards His people, and recognize the significance of Passover in preparation for Good Friday, where Jesus became the ultimate sacrificial Lamb for our sins so that God would spare us from His judgment.

WHAT IT'S TALKING ABOUT // 

In the Book of Exodus, Moses recounts the story of God leading the Israelites out of Egypt and towards the promised land. Throughout these chapters, we see God’s incredible faithfulness to His people and to His Word, to bring deliverance and salvation to a people very much held captive by the Egyptians and by their own fear/idols. Despite the Israelites’ continual doubt and rebellion against God, God remembers His promise and continues to lead them towards the land he promised to them. In this particular passage, God calls Moses to be the primary leader of these Israelites, granting him assurance in who He is and what He has promised. These 4 “I will” statements are God’s promises to Israel to deliver them from Egypt; they are fulfilled in completion through the new covenant and ultimate salvation brought through Jesus. These statements also frame the Passover celebration as we consider what Jesus has done for us:

1-Sanctification – “I ​will bring you out​ from Egypt”

2-Deliverance – “I ​will deliver you​ from Egyptian bondage”

3-Redemption – “I ​will redeem you​ with My power”

4-Restoration – “I ​will acquire you​ as My people”

Exodus 6:1-8 NLT

1 Then the Lord told Moses, “Now you will see what I will do to Pharaoh. When he feels the force of my strong hand, he will let the people go. In fact, he will force them to leave his land!”

2 And God said to Moses, “I am Yahweh—‘the Lord.’ 

3 I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty’—but I did not reveal my name, Yahweh, to them. 

4 And I reaffirmed my covenant with them. Under its terms, I promised to give them the land of Canaan, where they were living as foreigners. 

5 You can be sure that I have heard the groans of the people of Israel, who are now slaves to the Egyptians. And I am well aware of my covenant with them.

6 “Therefore, say to the people of Israel: ‘I am the Lord. I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you from your slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm and great acts of judgment. 

7 I will claim you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God who has freed you from your oppression in Egypt. 

8 I will bring you into the land I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. I will give it to you as your very own possession. I am the Lord!’”

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

When Revive began God gave our leaders a specific scripture that helped them understand the mission of our movement: Isaiah 61:4. We believe that we are people called to be a part of the work that God is doing on the Earth to “Revive The Way”. The early believers were first called followers of the way, as Jesus himself said “I am The Way…”. We believe we are called to return (and help others return) to the purity of following Jesus.

The foundation of all mission (or “doing for God”) in our life springs out from who we are. In community we engage together in the journey of intentionally being formed into the image of Christ. This process of spiritual formation is much like the natural process of growing up. If we skip this process we will not have the foundation required to fulfill the calling God has for us. As we submit to the maturing process of discipleship we can enter into wholeness, which is one aspect of the word “salvation” (sozo) in scripture. The salvation that Jesus extends to us is not only for eternal life but should also be understood as redemption from the effects of sin on our life right now.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

Second Timothy was written by Paul to Timothy. Paul is encouraging him to stay faithful in the mission God has given to him and instructing him to remind the church to remain in the truth. He uses an analogy of household containers to illustrate the choice that we have as believers to allow ourselves to become the type of person who can used by God. The power of that choice will impact our usefulness as we see a compost bin can not be used for the same purpose as a crystal glass. The beauty of these verses is that we get to choose what type of container we want to be.

2 Tim 2:20-22 MSG

20-21 In a well-furnished kitchen there are not only crystal goblets and silver platters, but waste cans and compost buckets—some containers used to serve fine meals, others to take out the garbage. Become the kind of container God can use to present any and every kind of gift to his guests for their blessing.

22 Run away from childish indulgence. Run after mature righteousness…

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

When Revive began God gave our leaders a specific scripture that helped them understand the mission of our movement: Isaiah 61:4. We believe that we are people called to be a part of the work that God is doing on the Earth to “Revive The Way”. The early believers were first called followers of the way, as Jesus himself said “I am the The Way…”. We believe we are called to return (and help others return) to the purity of following Jesus. We also believe that we are a movement to “bring church back home”. This statement carries 3 meanings to us:

1. To bring church back to its origin; the focus on the basic foundations of faith and practice embraced by the early church.

2. To bring spiritual health and discipleship back to the family unit and also to set the lonely into spiritual and practical family.

3. To bring church back to the place of intimacy by gathering in actual homes in a format that cultivates growth and mutual commitment.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

3. To bring church back to the place of intimacy by gathering in actual homes in a format that cultivates growth and mutual commitment.

When members of the body of Christ gather together Jesus is among us. The standard format and way of gathering for the first 300 years of church history was house to house. While the believers in Jerusalem still additionally gathered in the temple courts, the body of Christ was composed of various house churches. They contained groups of local people who lived life together and met frequently to engage in all aspects of their Christian faith. This way of gathering was intimate and inclusive, giving all members the space to actively participate in the meetings.

Matthew 18:20 NIV

20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

1 Corinthians 14:26 NIV

26 What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

When Revive began God gave our leaders a specific scripture that helped them understand the mission of our movement: Isaiah 61:4. We believe that we are people called to be a part of the work that God is doing on the Earth to “Revive The Way”. The early believers were first called followers of the way, as Jesus himself said “I am the The Way…”. We believe we are called to return (and help others return) to the purity of following Jesus. We also believe that we are a movement to “bring church back home”. This statement carries 3 meanings to us:

1. To bring church back to its origin; the focus on the basic foundations of faith and practice embraced by the early church.

2. To bring spiritual health and discipleship back to the family unit and also to set the lonely into spiritual and practical family.

3. To bring church back to the place of intimacy by gathering in actual homes in a format that cultivates growth and mutual commitment.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

2. To bring spiritual health and discipleship back to the family unit and also to set the lonely into spiritual and practical family.

The family is the original community that we belong to. Healthy family experiences build health and stability in their members. Parents are responsible to train and disciple their children, however the benefit of spiritual community is invaluable as we also take up the role to serve and love one another’s families. The setting of spiritual family also creates space for those without naturally healthy environments to belong and grow together in deeply-committed relationships.

Psalm 127:3-4 NLT

3 Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him. 4 Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.

Proverbs 22:6 NLT

6 Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

Ephesians 6:4 NLT

4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

Psalm 68:6 NLT

6 God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.

Romans 12:5 NLT

5 so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

When Revive began God gave our leaders a specific scripture that helped them understand the mission of our movement: Isaiah 61:4. We believe that we are people called to be a part of the work that God is doing on the Earth to “Revive The Way”. The early believers were first called followers of the way, as Jesus himself said “I am the The Way…”. We believe we are called to return (and help others return) to the purity of following Jesus. We also believe that we are a movement to “bring church back home”. This statement carries 3 meanings to us:

1. To bring church back to its origin; the focus on the basic foundations of faith and practice embraced by the early church.

2. To bring spiritual health and discipleship back to the family unit and by setting the lonely into spiritual and practical family.

3. To bring church back to the place of intimacy by gathering in actual homes in a format that cultivates growth and mutual commitment.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

1. To bring church back to its origin; the focus on the basic foundations of faith and practice embraced by the early church.

What did life look like in the Early church? What did it practically mean for them to be committed to Jesus and committed to one another? In Acts we have a glimpse into the daily life of the believers as house churches were planted and the gospel began to spread to new people groups. The believers commitment to one another was all encompassing addressing more than just spiritual needs. In 1 Corinthians we see the Apostle Paul bringing correction and instruction to a relatively new church in Corinth. Chapter 14 concerns the way they should conduct regular gatherings together in a healthy and orderly way. It also demonstrates a very different structure of gathering than we find in most western church expressions.

Acts 2:42-47 NIV

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

I Corinthians 14:26, 33 NLT

26 What then shall we say, brothers and sisters? When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. Everything must be done so that the church may be built up… 33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

When Revive began God gave our leaders a specific scripture that helped them understand the mission of our movement: Isaiah 61:4. We believe that we are people called to be a part of the work that God is doing on the Earth to “Revive The Way”. The early believers were first called followers of the way, as Jesus himself said “I am the The Way…”. We believe we are called to return (and help others return) to the purity of following Jesus.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

Isaiah 61 is a messianic passage of scripture, meaning it is speaking of the future messiah, Jesus. In Luke chapter 4 Jesus quotes Isaiah 61:1-2 in the temple and then tells the hearers that this scripture “has been fulfilled in their hearing”. Basically, Jesus is telling them that He, Himself is the fulfillment of this passage; That He Himself is the fulfillment of redemption and the new covenant promised to God’s people. Today we are the continuation of the ministry of Jesus on the Earth. 1 Corinthians 5:18-21 says:

18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.”

Jesus has given us the great honor to continue his work until he returns.

Isaiah 61: 1-4 NLT

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me,
    for the Lord has anointed me
    to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted
    and to proclaim that captives will be released
    and prisoners will be freed.
2 He has sent me to tell those who mourn
    that the time of the Lord’s favor has come,
    and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies.
3 To all who mourn in Israel,
    he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,
a joyous blessing instead of mourning,
    festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks
    that the Lord has planted for his own glory.

4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins,
    repairing cities destroyed long ago.
They will revive them,
    though they have been deserted for many generations.

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity.

Revive is a body of believers led by Apostles, Prophets, Pastors, Evangelists and Teachers who share the responsibility of guiding the overall direction of the church. We have local leadership such as house church pastors and elders (in more established churches) who serve to nurture and shepherd. We also have an Apostolic team that exists to unify and mature all of the churches. This is the leadership model displayed both in scripture and in the life of the early church. Some people would refer to this as a 5-Fold or Apostolic ministry model. While this is the only leadership model we find in the Bible, many contemporary churches are led by only one ministry gift, such as a pastor.

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

The 5-Fold Ministry gifts described in Ephesians 4 are different then the spiritual gifts described elsewhere in scripture. 1 Corinthians gives examples of the gifts that the Holy Spirit gives to all Christians to serve others and to fulfill their callings. Ephesians 4 explains that Jesus himself appoints specific people with what is needed to lead and govern in the church on His behalf. They have different strengths that work in tandem to accomplish two tasks: Unity and Maturity in the body. Unlike the Spiritual gifts, these people are themselves the gift that Jesus gives to the body. When they work together the church gets what it needs to grow and be strengthened in all the strengths possessed by these leaders. A different way to understand this would be that any person can desire a gift of prophecy whether they are a prophet or not, but the person called to be a prophet not only has a gift of prophesy, but a calling to equip the body of Christ. Here is an example of some of the primary strengths of the different people that Jesus calls to 5-fold church leadership:

Apostles govern and strategically build
Prophets reveal and declare
Teachers illuminate and guard truth
Evangelists preach and reach with the gospel
Pastors nurture and protect

Ephesians 4:11-16 NLT

11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 
12 Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 
13 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. 
16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

WHY IT MATTERS //

As members of Revive we are Committed to Jesus and Committed to one another. This commitment (also known as koinonia) is one of the pillars of our ReviveHOMES; It sets a foundation for us to grow and mature in community. Each unique ReviveHOME is a local expression of the same DNA that God has given us as a family of churches. Over the next weeks we will explore together our shared convictions, our identity and the Kingdom mission God has called us to accomplish in unity. This week we dive deeper into something we began to touch on last week: How do we discover our personal role in the Kingdom and the community? Words like gift, purpose and calling are often confused and interchanged but what do they really mean?

WHAT IT’S TALKING ABOUT //

This week we want to discuss the biblical foundation of how we explore and outwork who we are personally in the context of community.

1. IDENTITY 

Your identity comes from your Father God and is defined by your union with Christ. God has adopted you to be his son or daughter.

Romans 8:15

15 So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.”

2. PURPOSE

You were born to glorify God. This means to worship through your everyday life; in all that you do bearing witness that Jesus is alive.

Romans 11:36

36 For everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his glory…

3. COMMISSION

To carry on the mission of Jesus to make disciples. You have a mandate to tell people about Jesus and teach them how to follow him.

Mark 16:15-16

15 And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. 16 Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned.

4. CALLING

The unique way that God assigns you to glorify him and make disciples. Your gifts, desires and natural circumstances contribute and this assignment can change.

1 Corinthians 12:7

7 A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.

Genesis 2:15,19

15 The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it…19 …He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name.

5. DESTINY

To hear Jesus say “Well done” when you stand before him to give an account for how you lived in response to his salvation.

2 Corinthians 5:9-10

9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.