Discovering HOPE

Discovering HOPE

By Paul KnightReligion & SpiritualityChristianity
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Discovering HOPE episodes

  • Episode 77: The Beautiful Return to Church

    THE BEAUTIFUL RETURN

    Returning to where God desires us to be is beautiful. Step into that beautiful return.

    Acts 2:42-47 NIV

    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.
    A ___________ People

    Acts 2:22-24 NIV

    “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.

    Acts 2:38, 39 NIV

    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.”

    Romans 1:16 NIV

    For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.
    An ___________ people

    The Source of their power

    a. ___________

    Acts 1:8 NIV

    But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
    b. ___________

    Acts 2:46, 47 NIV

    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.
    c. ___________

    Acts 2:46 NIV

    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,
    A ___________ people

    Acts 2:42 NIV

    They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching . . .

    Ephesians 6:17 NIV

    Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

    1 Corinthians 2:14 :NIV

    The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.

    John 1:14 NIV

    The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
    A ___________ people

    Acts 2:42 NIV

    They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

    Acts 2:44 NIV

    All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

    1 Corinthians 6:19, 20 NIV

    Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

    Romans 12:4, 5 NIV

    For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.

    Acts 20:35 NIV

    “…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
    A ___________ people

    Acts 2:47 NIV

    . . . and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

    Matthew 28:16-20 NIV

    Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. 17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

    1 Peter 2:11, 12 NIV

    Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
    We are ___________!
    The church is a people not a place.

    DISCUSSION UESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

    For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

    1. Quick Review

      2. a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

      1. Which characteristic of the early church struck a chord with you?

        2. a. A Gospel People

        b. An Empowered People

        c. A God’s Word People

        d. A Giving People

        e. A Mission People

        1. When you think of the above characteristics, where do you think the church is doing well?

        2. Where do you think the church needs improvement?

        3. What makes a person a part of the church? Are you a part of God’s family, the Church?

          4. a. For more information about receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord and becoming a part of His family, the Church, text: MadeNew to 474747

          1. Thinking of the characteristics above, where do you contribute well to the church living the characteristics?

          2. For the sake of the church, where do you think you need to improve?

          3. What is your next step?

            4. To connect in a lifegroup check out this link: https://www.gfhope.org/lifegroups

            Support Discovering HOPE

            37 min
          4. Episode 76: When Your One Another is Broken, Return.

            Matthew 18:15-20 NIV

            “If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

            18 “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
            19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

            Matthew 18:21-35 NIV

            Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”

            22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
            23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
            26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
            28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.
            29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
            30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
            32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
            35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

            1. One Anothering well is the ____________ of your ____________, be forgiving.

              2. Matthew 18:15-20 NIV

              “If your brother or sister sins (against you), go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.

              Matthew 5:23, 24 NIV

              “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

              John 17:20-22 NIV

              “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one—

              Ephesians 4:3 NIV

              Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

              1 Corinthians 11:17, 18 NIV

              In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.

              Matthew 5:43-48 NIV

              “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

              Forgiveness:

              I will live with the consequences of your sin and not seek vengeance or retribution, but rather your blessing.

              One Anothering well affects ____________ ____________, be forgiving.

              Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV

              Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

              Colossians 3:13 NIV

              Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

              Matthew 6:12 NIV

              And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

              Galatians 5:1 NIV

              It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

              · Forgiveness doesn’t mean it doesn’t matter

              · Forgiveness doesn’t mean there has to be trust

              · Forgiveness doesn’t mean you forget.

              · It does affect your relationship with God too

              · The goal to God is always to heal your broken one another.

              · Forgiveness reflects your love for God.

              · Unforgiveness reflects your being forgiven.

              When your “One Another” is ____________ choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!
              a. Start by looking at ____________.

              Matthew 18:21, 22 NIV

              Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

              Romans 12:3 NIV

              For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment,

              b. Focus on what was done ____________ you, not ____________ you.

              Matthew 18:32, 33 NIV

              “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’

              c. Go to ridiculous ____________ with your forgiveness.

              Matthew 18:22 NIV

              Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.

              d. Choose ____________ over judgement

              Matthew 18:33 NIV

              Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’

              James 2:12, 13 NIV

              Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

              Mercy

              When God chooses to not give you what you deserve.
              e. Live with an “as God has forgiven you” heart or

              Matthew 18:33-35 NIV

              Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’ 34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed. 35 “This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”

              Matthew 6:14 NIV

              For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

              DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

              For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

              1. Quick Review

                2. a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

                1. What stood out to you in the message?

                  2. One Anothering is the heart of your Father, be forgiving.

                  1. Did you know that the phrase ONE ANOTHER appears over 100 times in the New Testament?

                  2. Discuss or think about how important one anothering it to God.

                  3. How do you think your love for God affects your love for others?

                  4. How do you think your love for others affects your love for God?

                  5. When you don’t love someone, don’t forgive them, what do you think that says about your being forgiven?

                  6. One Anothering well affects your heart, be forgiving.

                  7. How do you see unforgiveness affecting your life?

                  8. If God were to give you forgiveness like you forgive others, what would that be like for you?

                  9. Think through and discuss why you are holding unforgiveness toward a person or persons.

                  10. Pastor Paul talked about drinking poison in hopes that it will hurt the other person, think about this statement and discuss it. How might you be doing that in your life?

                    11. When your “One Another” is broke choose a beautiful return, be forgiving!

                    1. Start with you: What does God desire from you?

                    2. Are you willing to consistently ask God for help so that you are forgiving? Pause now and do that.

                    3. What has been done for you: Rehearse the extent that you have been forgiven. Are you like more the unforgiving servant or Jesus?

                    4. God calls us to ridiculous extremes in our forgiveness. How does that make us more like Him?

                    5. Choose mercy: Are you willing to choose mercy? Why or Why Not?

                    6. As God has forgiven you: If God forgives like you do, what will that be like for you?

                      7. Support Discovering HOPE

                      39 min
                    7. Episode 74: Returning to Your First Love

                      You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.

                      Revelation 2:1-7 NIV

                      “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

                      These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
                      4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. 6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
                      7 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.

                      Revelation 1-3 & 6 NIV

                      “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:

                      These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.
                      6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

                      Revelation 2:4 NIV

                      Yet I hold this against you. . .

                      “The cause of Christ, as important as it is, is not more important than your love for Christ.”

                      Revelation 2:4 NIV

                      |Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first.

                      Mark 12:28-31 NIV

                      One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
                      29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

                      Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV

                      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. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.

                      1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NIV

                      If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is . . . 8 Love never fails.
                      “You know you have drifted when your doing for Jesus is more important than your devotion to Jesus.”

                      1. How to ____________ to first ____________ .

                        2. Revelation 2:4-5 NIV

                        Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.

                        Was there a time when you loved Christ more than you love him now?

                        If you do not have a relationship with Jesus and would like to speak to someone about that please text: madenew to 474747

                        “Lord God, I need to confess to you a huge sin in my life.

                        My love for you has grown weak, casual, and cold.
                        I have been so busy and doing that I have drifted in my devotion to you.
                        Please forgive me. Help me turn back to a first love devotion to you.
                        Amen.”

                        DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

                        For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your Life-Group, or a watch party

                        1. Quick Review

                          2. a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

                          1. What stood out to you in the message?

                            2. Good things can rob you of the best thing.

                            1. What good things compete with or threaten the best thing (Jesus Christ) in your life?

                            2. How or why do you think they compete or threaten your devotion to Jesus Christ?

                            3. We often have inner longings or thirsts that drive us in our “doing.” What thirsts are you seeking to satisfy in your work for Christ that are not being satisfied in your relationship with Jesus Christ? How can you address that?

                              4. First comes love.

                              1. Do you think Jesus would say that you have forsaken your first love?

                              2. In what ways do you think stepping away from first love for Jesus is affecting you?

                                3. How to return to first love.

                                1. Remember: What do you remember of your early devotion to Jesus Christ?

                                2. If you don’t have a relationship with Jesus Christ, are you willing to speak to someone about your potential relationship with Him? If so, Text MadeNew to 474747

                                3. Repent: Are you willing to confess the loss of first love for Jesus as sin?

                                4. If you are in a great “love” spot with Jesus Christ, take a moment and thank Him.

                                5. If so, take a moment and do that. If not, ask yourself why you are not.

                                6. Return: As you think of your spiritual life and your love for Jesus Christ, what do you think God would say, “these are the first things you should return to doing?”

                                  7. Bonus Material:

                                  Crazy Love by Francis Chan

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                                    36 min
                                  • Episode 71: Wisdom Calls Us to “If Your Enemy . . . “

                                    Proverbs 25:21, 22 NIV

                                    If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. 22 In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

                                    Proverbs 25:22 NIV

                                    If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink

                                    Proverbs 24:17, 18 NIV

                                    Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice, 18 or the Lord will see and disapprove and turn his wrath away from them.

                                    Matthew 5:43-45 NIV

                                    “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven.

                                    Romans 12:14-21 NIV

                                    14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay, says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

                                    Proverbs 1:7 NIV

                                    The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

                                    Romans 12:19 NIV

                                    Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord.

                                    John 15:5 NIV

                                    “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

                                    Ephesians 5:18 NIV

                                    . . . be filled with the Spirit,

                                    Romans 8:26-39 NIV

                                    In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness . . .

                                    Galatians 5:22-26 NIV

                                    But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

                                    Proverbs 25:22 NIV

                                    In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

                                    Romans 12:11 NIV

                                    Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

                                    Romans 12:20, 21 NIV

                                    On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

                                    John 16:33 NIV

                                    “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

                                    Matthew 5:10-14 NIV

                                    Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 13 “You are the salt of the earth. . 14 “You are the light of the world. . .

                                    2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

                                    Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

                                    ** Philippians 2:10, 11 NIV**

                                    . . . that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

                                    Revelation 20:11-21:4 NIV

                                    Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them.12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. 14 Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. 15 Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

                                    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

                                    • For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

                                    • Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

                                    • What stood out to you in the message?

                                      • A Wise call to a Radical Response

                                      • Proverbs 25:22 begins with “if your enemy…” Enemies may come from a variety of types of people: Political, Relational, Family, Theological, Religious, Racial, etc. Who do you think are your enemies?

                                      • Even though they may not be “actual” enemies, of those who oppose you or the things that you value, who do you think of as enemies?

                                      • Are you responding to them in your actions, thinking, and heart in a way that honors God?

                                      • Do you pray for them? Yes No Make a list now and pray.

                                        • A Wise Call to a Radical Reliance

                                        • How is your engagement with Scripture informing your responses to the various situations in your life that may cause discord or tension?

                                        • Be filled with the Spirit… the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses… Keep in step with the Spirit… We are all truly dependent on the Holy Spirit, what can you do to actively increase your awareness of the Spirit and your dependance on Him?

                                          • A Wise Call to a Radical Hope

                                          • The hope we have is that God will transform people’s lives. How have you seen “life-change” around you and how can that knowledge help you have hope for others?

                                          • Even if there is never life-change God promises that He will judge and make all things new. How can this knowledge give you strength to have a godly response to your enemies?

                                            • Bonus Content:

                                            • Here are a few resources to help you see this type of living in action.

                                              • Books:

                                              In the Presence of My Enemies by Gracia Burnham

                                              For American missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham, what started out as a relaxing, once-in-a-lifetime anniversary getaway at an exotic island resort turned into one of the most horrific nightmares imaginable. Kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf, a terrorist group with ties to Osama bin Laden, the Burnhams were snatched away from friends and family and thrust into a life on the run in the Philippine jungle

                                              Through Gates of Splendor by Elizabeth Elliot

                                              Based on the story of 5 missionaries martyred by the Auca Indians in 1956.
                                              Five missionaries went into the land of the savage Aucas. Their offer of friendship was rejected, and the Aucas killed the missionaries. Elisabeth Elliot, wife of one of the martyrs, her daughter and Rachel Saint would not give up and eventually lived among and brought the Gospel to the Aucas.

                                              To End All Wars by Ernest Gordon

                                              (WWII) The story of Ernest Gordon’s life in the Death House–in a prison camp by the River Kwai. ’When Ernest Gordon was twenty-four he was captured by the Japanese and forced, with other British prisoners, to build the notorious ‘Railroad of Death’, where nearly 16,000 Prisoners of War gave their life.

                                              Movies

                                              Through Gates of Splendor - not rated

                                              To End All Wars – Rated R

                                              Support Discovering HOPE

                                              36 min
                                            • Episode 70: Seven Principles of Wise Parenting

                                              ** Genesis 2:24 **

                                              “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”

                                              Proverbs 22:6

                                              “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

                                              The Church is to Invest in Future Generations (Col 3:20, Eph 6:1, Deut. 31:9-13, Josh. 8:34-35).

                                              WISE PARENTS TRUST GOD’S WORD AND LEAD LIKE THE GOOD SHEPHERD!

                                              1. Wise Parents Provide (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:2)

                                                2. Proverbs 27:23-27

                                                “Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds; 24 for riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations. 25When the hay is removed, and new growth appears and the grass from the hills is gathered in, 26the lambs will provide you with clothing, and the goats with the price of a field. 27You will have plenty of goats’ milk to feed you and your family and to nourish your servant girls.”

                                                Psalm 23:2

                                                “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”

                                                1. Wise Parents Restore (Proverbs 11:8, Psalm 23:3a)

                                                  2. Proverbs 11:8

                                                  “The righteous man is rescued from trouble…”

                                                  Psalm 23:2

                                                  “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.”

                                                  1. Wise Parents Lead (Proverbs 4:11, Psalm 23:3)

                                                    2. Proverbs 4:11

                                                    “I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.”

                                                    Psalm 23:3b

                                                    “He guides me in paths of righteousness.”

                                                    1. Wise Parents Remain Present (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4b)

                                                      2. Proverbs 2:8

                                                      “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”

                                                      Psalm 23:4b

                                                      “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me.”

                                                      1. Wise Parents Defend and Protect (Proverbs 2:8, Psalm 23:4c)

                                                        2. Proverbs 2:8

                                                        “For he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”

                                                        Psalm 23:4

                                                        “Your rod and staff they comfort me.”

                                                        1. Wise Parents Comfort (Proverbs 10:29, Psalm 23:4c, 5b)

                                                          2. Proverbs 10:29

                                                          “The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous...”

                                                          Psalm 23:5

                                                          “You anoint my head with oil…”

                                                          1. Wise Parents Prepare (Proverbs 27:23-27, Psalm 23:5a)

                                                            2. Psalm 23:5a

                                                            “You prepare a table before me…”

                                                            Support Discovering HOPE

                                                            35 min
                                                          2. Episode 69: Financial Principles that lead to Joy, Generosity, and Impact

                                                            Proverbs 3:1-10 NIV

                                                            My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. 8 This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. 9 Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; 10 then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

                                                            Financial Principle #1
                                                            Clarify Who You Are and the Value of Things

                                                            Proverbs 3:5 NIV

                                                            Trust in the Lord with all your heart

                                                            Proverbs 3:9. 10 NIV

                                                            Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; 10 then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.

                                                            Proverbs 22:1-2 NIV

                                                            A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. 2 Rich and poor have this in common: The Lord is the Maker of them all.

                                                            Proverbs 9:10 NIV

                                                            The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

                                                            Proverbs 11:4 NIV

                                                            Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

                                                            Deuteronomy 14:22, 23 NIV

                                                            Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year.23 Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always.

                                                            Malachi 3:6-12 NIV

                                                            “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. 7 Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’ 8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the store house, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it. 11 I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the Lord Almighty. 12 “Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land,” says the Lord Almighty.

                                                            Psalm 24:1 NIV

                                                            The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;

                                                            Matthew 6:24 NIV

                                                            “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.

                                                            A Tool to Help: The Tithe Challenge https://www.gfhope.org/giving

                                                            Michael Jr. – comedy clip on giving from LifeChurch.com

                                                            Bit starts approx. 17:46 (the whole message is good and funny)

                                                            9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More… Pastor Paul and Bonnie Knight

                                                            Financial Principle #2

                                                            Set a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.

                                                            Proverbs 13:11 ESV

                                                            Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.

                                                            Proverbs 10:4 NIV

                                                            Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.

                                                            Proverbs 12:11 NIV

                                                            Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

                                                            Proverbs 21:5, 6 NIV

                                                            The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. 6 A fortune made by a lying tongue is a fleeting vapor and a deadly snare.

                                                            Proverbs 23:4 NIV

                                                            Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.

                                                            Luke 16:10-13 NIV

                                                            “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? 12 And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own? 13 “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.”

                                                            Discipline of a plan:

                                                            10 / 10 / 80

                                                            A Tool to Help: Financial Peace University – Fall at HOPE Church

                                                            Book: Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

                                                            Ramsey’s Baby Steps – See bonus content below or follow link:

                                                            Financial Principle #3

                                                            There is Power in “Not Yet and No.”

                                                            Proverbs 20:21 NIV

                                                            The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.

                                                            Proverbs 28:25 NIV

                                                            The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.

                                                            Proverbs 22:7 NIV

                                                            The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender.

                                                            Psalm 37:21 NIV

                                                            The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously;

                                                            Financial Principle #4

                                                            Experience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous

                                                            Proverbs 11: 24, 25

                                                            One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. 25 A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

                                                            Proverbs 13:22 NIV

                                                            A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.

                                                            Proverbs 19:17 NIV

                                                            Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.

                                                            Proverbs 21:13 NIV

                                                            Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered.

                                                            2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NIV

                                                            Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

                                                            DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

                                                            For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

                                                            Quick Review
                                                            Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?
                                                            What stood out to you in the message?

                                                            Financial Principle #1 -- Clarify Who You Are and the Value of Things

                                                            Do you think of yourself under the Lordship of Jesus Christ?
                                                            Do you see your possessions and money as belonging to God?
                                                            How does your view of who you are and the value of things affect your daily life?

                                                            Financial Principle #2 -- Set a Step by Step, Bit by Bit Financial Pace.

                                                            Do you have a financial plan for the management of money?
                                                            Does your plan fit with worldly wisdom or Godly wisdom?
                                                            Are there areas where you struggle regarding Godly financial wisdom?
                                                            Are there areas where you experience joy and victory in managing finances?

                                                            Financial Principle #3 -- There is Power in “Not Yet and No.”

                                                            How do you personally handle delayed gratification?
                                                            Where have you been victorious in waiting and been blessed?

                                                            Financial Principle #4 -- Experience the Joy of Being Gloriously Generous

                                                            1 Corinthians 9:7 states that God loves a cheerful giver. Do you consider yourself cheerful in your giving?
                                                            If you are not a cheerful giver, what would help you get to that point?
                                                            Are you generous?

                                                            Bonus Content:

                                                            9 Reasons Why We Give a Tithe and More…
                                                            Pastor Paul and Bonnie

                                                            1. We believe what the bible teaches about tithing and giving.
                                                            2. We love the Church and want to support it.
                                                            3. We agree that tithing and generous giving is a principle of financial freedom.
                                                            4. We want to model tithing and generous giving, primarily to our family.
                                                            5. We need to combat our own personal greed and consumerism.
                                                            6. We trust and love God.
                                                            7. We want to acknowledge His provision and protection of us.
                                                            8. To remind us that we are not home, we are aliens and strangers here.
                                                            9. Because we like it, it is fun.
                                                              10. Dave Ramsey 7 Baby Steps

                                                              Baby Step 1

                                                              Save $1,000 for your starter emergency fund.

                                                              Baby Step 2

                                                              Pay off all debt (except the house) using the debt snowball.

                                                              Baby Step 3

                                                              Save 3–6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund.

                                                              Baby Step 4

                                                              Invest 15% of your household income in retirement.

                                                              Baby Step 5

                                                              Save for your children’s college fund.

                                                              Baby Step 6

                                                              Pay off your home early.

                                                              Baby Step 7

                                                              Build wealth and give.

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                                                              38 min
                                                            10. Episode 68: Getting Your Life on a Great Path

                                                              Proverbs 3:5, 6 NIV

                                                              5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

                                                              A Life Question: Are you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?

                                                              Proverbs 3:1-6 NIV

                                                              My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, 2 for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. 3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.

                                                              Proverbs 3:6b NIV

                                                              … and he will make your paths straight.

                                                              Matthew 7:13, 14 NIV

                                                              “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

                                                              Genesis 12:1a & 2 NIV

                                                              The Lord had said to Abram, . . . 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”

                                                              Wisdom Lesson:
                                                              Wisdom is knowing the best life possible is the life lived on the path designed by God.
                                                              Three Practices for the Journey to a Great Life
                                                              Practice #1
                                                              Develop a Deep ________________________ in the Lord.

                                                              Proverbs 3:5 NIV

                                                              Trust in the Lord with all your heart

                                                              Proverbs 3:1 NIV

                                                              My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart

                                                              Proverbs 3:3 NIV

                                                              Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.

                                                              Genesis 12:1-5 NIV

                                                              The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 4 So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Harran. 5 He took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, all the possessions they had accumulated and the people they had acquired in Harran, and they set out . . .

                                                              Wisdom Lesson:
                                                              Wisdom is knowing that where you want to be may require you to move from where you are! Trust God on the journey.
                                                              Practice #2
                                                              Determine to ________________________ in a Way ____________ to God’s Way.

                                                              Proverbs 3:5b NIV

                                                              and lean not on your own understanding. . .

                                                              Proverbs 14:12 NIV & Proverbs 16:25 NIV

                                                              There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.

                                                              Ephesians 6:10-14 NIV

                                                              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. .

                                                              Genesis 16:1-3 NIV

                                                              Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. But she had an Egyptian slave named Hagar; 2 so she said to Abram, “The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her.” Abram agreed to what Sarai said. 3 So after Abram had been living in Canaan ten years, Sarai his wife took her Egyptian slave Hagar and gave her to her husband to be his wife. 4 He slept with Hagar, and she conceived.

                                                              Wisdom Lesson:
                                                              When your way and God’s way are contrary its always wiser to take God’s way.
                                                              Practice #3
                                                              Acknowledge that _________is ______Over ______, _________.

                                                              Proverbs 3:6a NASB

                                                              In all your ways acknowledge Him. . .

                                                              Proverbs 3:6a NIV

                                                              . . . in all your ways submit to him

                                                              Luke 22:42 NIV

                                                              “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

                                                              Genesis 22:1, 2 NIV

                                                              Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” 2 Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, whom you love—Isaac—and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.”

                                                              Wisdom Lesson:
                                                              Acknowledging God is always best even when his best leads to sacrifice and submission.

                                                              DISCUSSION QUESTIONS, THOUGHTS and THINGS TO PONDER

                                                              For your personal discipleship, discussion with family, your LIFE HACK Group, or a watch party

                                                              1. Quick Review

                                                                2. a. Ask yourself: Was there a particular point or passage of Scripture that challenged, confused, or caught your attention?

                                                                1. What stood out to you in the message?

                                                                  2. Are you on a path that is leading to God’s best for you?

                                                                  1. In your everyday life, are you living on the path that God has designed for you?

                                                                  2. Are there specific areas of your life that you know you have taken a detour off God’s path?

                                                                    3. a. What are those areas?

                                                                    Practice #1 -- Develop a Deep Heart Trust in the Lord.

                                                                    1. In what areas of your life do you have difficulty trusting God?

                                                                    2. How do you think you can develop that practice of Heart Trust?

                                                                    3. Are there things you are doing that diminish your trust in God?

                                                                      4. Practice #2 -- Determine to Not Even Lean in a Way Contrary to God’s Way

                                                                      1. Where are you most apt to go your way over God’s way?

                                                                      2. Choosing your way over God’s way is evidence of a lack of trust in God. In the ways mentioned in question 8, why do you think you do not trust God?

                                                                      3. What can you do to learn to “stand firm” instead of “leaning on your own understanding?”

                                                                        4. Practice #3 -- Acknowledge that God is God Over Everything, Always

                                                                        1. Do you agree with the idea that God should be God over everything, always?

                                                                        2. In the areas where you tend to be your own god, your areas of disobedience, will you prayerfully place them and you on “an altar” declaring your willingness to acknowledge, submit and obey? Take a moment and, if possible, kneel or lay prostrate before Him and make that declaration. Submit your questions regarding this message or series to [email protected]

                                                                          3. We would like to invite you to receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.

                                                                          To let us know you have made this decision, to receive more information or for guidance in this decision please text: MADENEW to 474747

                                                                          -- Get Connected --

                                                                          Contact Us!

                                                                          We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.

                                                                          -- Stay Connected --

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                                                                            40 min
                                                                          • Episode 67: When Nobody's Looking

                                                                            Personal integrity should be a staple of a walk with God. Join Pastor Eric Kuehner as he guides us through a discussion on integrity.

                                                                            “So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later.”

                                                                            ** Proverbs 21:3 NIV**

                                                                            3 To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.

                                                                            1. Integrity is ____________ in our private life (Daniel 6:1-3)

                                                                              2. ** Daniel 6:3**

                                                                              3 Daniel soon proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers. Because of Daniel’s great ability, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.

                                                                              ** Proverbs 11:3 NIV**

                                                                              3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

                                                                              1. Integrity is ____________ in our personal life (Daniel 6:4-5)
                                                                              2. Integrity is ____________ in our professional life (Daniel 6:4-10)

                                                                                3. ** Proverbs 4:24-27 NIV**

                                                                                24 Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. 26 Give careful thought to the[a] paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

                                                                                ** Proverbs 10:9 NIV**

                                                                                9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.

                                                                                ** Proverbs 28:6 (English Standard Version)**

                                                                                6 Better is a poor man who walks in his integrity than a rich man who is crooked in his ways.

                                                                                1. Integrity is ____________ in our public life (Daniel 6:11-28)

                                                                                  2. Daniel was not in the lions’ den because he had done something wrong. He was there because he had done something right!

                                                                                  Questions:

                                                                                  1. When you hear the word “integrity,” what comes to mind. What exactly does it mean?

                                                                                  2. Who do you know that you would describe as a person of integrity? What sets this person apart from other people of a similar age and position?

                                                                                  3. Do you think integrity is valued today in society? Why or why not?

                                                                                  4. What do you think is the biggest challenge that we face in keeping our integrity today?

                                                                                  5. Share a time when it was very tempting to lie or be less than God would want you to be.

                                                                                  6. What types of situations test your integrity the most?

                                                                                    7. -- Get Connected --

                                                                                    Contact Us!

                                                                                    We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.

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                                                                                      36 min
                                                                                    • Episode 66: Last Call

                                                                                      What happens when alcohol takes us further than we wanted to go and keeps us longer than we wanted to stay? Pastor Eric Kuehner guides us on a discussion of drunkenness.

                                                                                      ** Proverbs 20:1**

                                                                                      "Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise".

                                                                                      ** Proverbs 23:29-35**

                                                                                      29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaints? Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes? 30 Those who linger over wine, who go to sample bowls of mixed wine. 31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it goes down smoothly! 32 In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper. 33 Your eyes will see strange sights, and your mind will imagine confusing things. 34 You will be like one sleeping on the high seas, lying on top of the rigging. 35 “They hit me,” you will say, “but I’m not hurt! They beat me, but I don’t feel it! When will I wake up so I can find another drink?”

                                                                                      1. Drunkenness ____________.
                                                                                        2. Is drunk you, the real you?

                                                                                        ** Matthew 12:34-35**

                                                                                        34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.

                                                                                        “Drunkenness may expose things deep inside of you, but it doesn’t have any good news for the darkness that emerges.”

                                                                                        ** Gen. 9:20-21**

                                                                                        20 Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded[a] to plant a vineyard.21 When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent.

                                                                                        “No one ever takes the first drink thinking that they want to become an alcoholic.”

                                                                                        The danger in overindulgence in alcohol can trap you in a lifestyle of dependance.

                                                                                        • I must have a drink to relax
                                                                                        • I must have a drink to socialize
                                                                                        • I must have a drink to deal with life
                                                                                        • I must have a drink to fit in
                                                                                        • I must have a drink because I’m happier when I drink

                                                                                          • The more a person consumes the more a person loses.

                                                                                          • Loses the will to think straight
                                                                                          • Loses the will to act right
                                                                                          • Loses the ability to control themselves
                                                                                          • Loses the ability to function

                                                                                            • “We can’t be filled with the Spirit and filled with wine at the same time”

                                                                                            1. ____________ and ____________

                                                                                              2. Ephesians 5:18-21 (NIV)

                                                                                              18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

                                                                                              A. Old Life (Eph. 5:18a)
                                                                                              B. New Life (Eph. 5:18b)

                                                                                              Questions:

                                                                                              1. What stood out to you most about this Sunday’s sermon?
                                                                                              2. How is wine (strong drink) a mocker?
                                                                                              3. Is getting drunk a sin?
                                                                                              4. Do you think that drunkenness is cause for separation from eternity in heaven? Luke 21:34, 1 Cor. 6:10, Gal. 5:21
                                                                                              5. Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit…” If you drink alcohol, what steps have you put into place to not get drunk?
                                                                                              6. If you don’t drink alcohol, why not?
                                                                                              7. Why do you think being drunk with alcohol and filled with the Spirit are used in the same sentence?
                                                                                              8. What things of the old you have you cut off and what evidence of the Holy Spirit do you see with-in yourself?
                                                                                                9. -- Get Connected --

                                                                                                Contact Us!

                                                                                                We'd love to hear from you! Send us a message with questions, prayer requests or any other comments you'd like to leave with the staff.

                                                                                                -- Stay Connected --

                                                                                                • Follow us on Twitter
                                                                                                • Like us on Facebook

                                                                                                  • Support Discovering HOPE

                                                                                                  44 min

                                                                                                About Discovering HOPE

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                                                                                                Our mission is to encourage people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ, who let God love them, love him in return, and who love others in Jesus' name. Our vision is to touch with the…