Dr. Barclay—Theme: Ancient Israel and an example to the
church today
Today in many parts of the world where this is severe
poverty, strife, war and persecution. Places like central and southeast Asia,
Africa and the middle east mosques and churches are full, yet here in North
America and Europe, many churches are empty and only half filled. Here in
the wealthier parts of the world where Christians experienced very little
persecution many Christians have become lazy and selfish, they are not serious,
nor committed when it comes to church attendance, prayer and Bible reading.
When we read the old testament and look at the nation of Israel, it serves as
timeless example and a great study of how compromise with false religions never
works and leads to division and great tragedy. Isaiah along with other prophets
warned ancient Israel and warns us today, we have to stand true for God 100%.
Giving in and acquiescing with pagan practices and beliefs will only bring
destruction. God does not ask or require us to be popular and politically
correct, he only requires us to tell the truth and obey his word.
Isaiah started his prophetic work in 740 BC.
Israel is God's chosen nation. Israel is the vessel God
chose, to spread his message throughout the world.
Sin brings destruction. Destruction was brought on Israel
due to it's straying away from Jehovah.
Isaiah 11:1-5 this passage was written 750 years before the
birth of Christ, Isaiah foretold this great event.
Christmas is to be thought of and celebrated as a Holy Day
not a simple Holiday, such as a time for parties and a day off work. Christmas
is not about presents and trees it is all about our relationship with Christ.
Isaiah 53
Whatever time we have left on this earth we should spend it
in a sincere relationship with God.
Pastor Dave McLean ----Theme: We are not to be controlled by
our emotions.
Christians worldwide need to know who they are in Christ and
not be insecure.
Christians have been made victorious through Christ and we
need to live out that knowledge. We need to love and trust God with our full
hearts and not just half or a little. What is happening in the world today
should not be a surprise. We need to continue trusting God and not fear.
Christians cannot be defeated God is on our side, he said he
would never leave us or forsake us.
|
John 10:10
|
God wants us to have life and to have it more abundantly.
The devil comes to make us feel bad about ourselves. We have been made more
than conquerors in Christ. We are not limited by our worldly education. God has
placed his wisdom within us. Satan will try to have us look back on our
failures. We cannot let our emotions rule our lives. As Christians we are to
let God's word rule our lives. We will never be winners if we let our emotions
control our lives. We are joint heirs with Christ, we are to pray and lay hands
on the sick with full faith and confidence. Satan wants us to feel unworthy so
that we will not step out in faith. God cares about the little things in our
lives. The same spirit that anointed Jesus has anointed you and I.
|
Mark 9:23-24
|
|
24 And
straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I
believe; help thou mine unbelief.
|
Believe the answer is on the way when you pray. If we do not
forgive Satan will take advantage of us. Do not spend time with people who will
bring you down. Only place your confidence and trust in Christ, in this world
he is our only security.


