Skycrest Community Church

The New Person: Embracing Transformation in Christ

In a world filled with discouragement and trials, the message of becoming a new creation in Christ offers hope and purpose. Grounded in 2 Corinthians 5:17, this sermon explores the transformative power of faith and the journey towards living a life that reflects Christ's victory over sin and death.

Key Themes

1. New Creation in Christ

The cornerstone of this message is the assurance found in 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This transformation is not just a change in status but a profound renewal of our identity and purpose. Through faith in Jesus, we are made righteous and begin a journey of sanctification—becoming more like Christ.

2. Purpose and Power

The sermon emphasizes that every believer has a powerful purpose, underscored by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. This purpose is not only to live a life pleasing to God but to actively engage in rescuing others from darkness, as highlighted in Philippians 3:8-11. The Holy Spirit empowers us, much like dynamite (from the Greek word "dunamis"), to make a significant impact in the world.

3. Eternity Matters

Understanding that eternity is planted in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11) compels us to live with eternal significance. The sermon reminds us that our time on earth is finite, and our actions should reflect our eternal purpose. Colossians 3:1-2 encourages believers to set their minds on things above, focusing on eternal rewards rather than temporary earthly gains.

4. Reconciliation and Restoration

Through Christ, we are reconciled to God, as described in 2 Corinthians 5:18-20. This reconciliation is not just a personal restoration but a call to become ambassadors of Christ, sharing the message of reconciliation with others. Our lives should reflect this restored relationship, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

5. Living Out Good Works

The sermon challenges believers to live out their faith through good works, as outlined in Ephesians 2:10 and James 2:17-18. Our conduct should align with our confession of faith, serving as a testament to the world of the genuine change Christ brings.

6. Freedom from Condemnation

Finally, the message reassures believers that in Christ, there is no condemnation (Romans 8:1-2). We are called to shed the weights of past sins and live with the freedom and confidence that comes from being in Christ. Philippians 3:13 encourages us to forget what lies behind and press forward towards our heavenly calling.

Conclusion

This sermon is a powerful reminder of the new identity and purpose we have in Christ. As new creations, we are called to live with intentionality, embracing our purpose, and impacting the world for the Kingdom of God. Let us be encouraged to live out our faith boldly, knowing that our lives have eternal significance and that we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill our God-given purpose. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Moses: A Journey of Faith and Liberation

In this sermon, we delve into the compelling narrative of Moses and the liberation of the Hebrew people from Egyptian bondage, as recorded in the book of Exodus. This story is not just a historical account but a profound illustration of faith, obedience, and divine intervention.

The Encounter at the Burning Bush

Our journey begins with Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush, where he is called to lead the Israelites out of slavery. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses is convinced by God to undertake this monumental task. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the subsequent events that unfold in Exodus 5-12.

Confrontation with Pharaoh

Moses, along with Aaron, approaches Pharaoh with a simple request: to allow the Israelites to go into the wilderness to worship God. Pharaoh's refusal sets the stage for a series of divine interventions. Initially, Moses and Aaron warn Pharaoh that if he does not comply, God will strike them with plagues, a threat that Pharaoh dismisses.

The Ten Plagues

The narrative of the ten plagues is a dramatic display of God's power and a testament to His authority over creation. Each plague, from the Nile turning to blood to the death of the firstborn (detailed in Exodus 7:14-12:30), serves as a direct challenge to the Egyptian gods and Pharaoh's hardened heart.

Plague of Blood: The Nile River turns to blood, showcasing God's control over life-sustaining resources.

Frogs, Gnats, and Flies: These plagues disrupt daily life and highlight the nuisance and chaos that disobedience to God can bring.

Livestock Disease and Boils: These afflictions demonstrate God's power over health and wealth.

Hail, Locusts, and Darkness: These natural disasters emphasize God's supremacy over the natural world.

Death of the Firstborn: The final and most devastating plague, leading to the liberation of the Israelites.

The Passover: A Symbol of Salvation

The final plague introduces the Passover, a significant event where the Israelites are instructed to mark their doorposts with the blood of a lamb. This act of faith ensures that the angel of death "passes over" their homes, sparing their firstborn. This event is commemorated annually by the Israelites and serves as a precursor to the Christian practice of Communion.

The Last Supper: A New Covenant

Fast forward 1400 years, Jesus and His disciples gather to celebrate the Passover. During this meal, Jesus reinterprets the elements of the Passover, instituting the Lord's Supper. The unleavened bread and wine now symbolize Jesus' body and blood, sacrificed for the forgiveness of sins, as described in Matthew 26:26-28.

Conclusion

This sermon reminds us of the power of faith and obedience in the face of adversity. The story of Moses and the Exodus is not just a tale of liberation from physical bondage but a profound spiritual liberation through Jesus Christ. As believers, we are invited to partake in the Lord's Supper, celebrating the grace and salvation offered through Jesus' sacrifice.

This timeless story encourages us to trust in God's plan, remain steadfast in our faith, and celebrate the freedom we have in Christ. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Moses and the Phases of Vision

In the recent sermon titled "Moses - EP6 7.12.26," the story of Moses as depicted in Exodus 3 and Exodus 4 is used to explore the development of leadership and vision in the context of faith. The sermon emphasizes the idea that effective leadership is developed over time and through various phases, as explained by Dr. J. Robert Clinton in "The Making of a Leader."

The Phases of a Godly Vision

The sermon outlines the four phases of a vision anchored in God's call:

Birth of a Vision: This is the initial spark of an idea for God's kingdom. For Moses, this began with the vision of delivering the Israelites from slavery.

Death of the Vision: This phase is marked by obstacles and setbacks that cause doubt and abandonment of the vision. Moses experienced this when he fled to Midian after his initial attempt to lead ended in failure.

Rebirth of the Vision: God rekindles the vision, as seen when He appeared to Moses in the burning bush at Exodus 3:10, commanding him to return to Egypt and lead his people to freedom.

Fulfillment of the Vision: This occurs when the vision becomes reality, as Moses eventually leads the Israelites out of Egypt.

Moses’ Objections and God’s Responses

Moses raised several objections to God's renewed call:

"Who am I?" (Exodus 3:11): Moses doubted his worthiness, but God assured him, "I will be with you" (Exodus 3:12).

"What if they do not believe me?" (Exodus 4:1): God provided Moses with signs like turning his staff into a snake (Exodus 4:2-4) to prove His presence.

"I am slow of speech" (Exodus 4:10): God reassured Moses, "I will help you speak" (Exodus 4:11-12).

Despite these reassurances, Moses initially resisted, saying, "Please send someone else" (Exodus 4:13). However, God’s anger was kindled, and He provided Aaron to assist Moses, demonstrating that God equips those He calls.

Vision and Leadership

The sermon suggests that every believer is called to have a vision for God's kingdom, whether grand or modest. It highlights that visions are not always about monumental tasks like Nehemiah’s rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, but can be simple acts of faith and obedience, akin to the servant girl’s vision for Naaman’s healing.

Reflection and Call to Action

The sermon concludes with a call for self-reflection:

Do you know God's vision for your life?

Are you willing to pursue it, despite objections or fears?

It encourages believers to pray for clarity and to rely on God's strength to fulfill His purposes. The message is clear: God can resurrect visions that seem dead when we acknowledge our limitations and depend on Him.

In closing, the sermon reminds us that a relationship with Jesus is foundational for receiving and pursuing a God-given vision. As Jesus transforms our hearts, He enables us to serve His kingdom purposefully.

For further reflection, consider reading Exodus 3-4 to see how God’s interactions with Moses can inspire your own journey of faith and leadership.

Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Moses - Lawgiver and Nation Builder

In this sermon, we explore the profound role of Moses not just as a liberator but as a lawgiver who transformed the Israelites from a wandering people into a nation under God. This transformation is grounded in the biblical narrative found in Exodus 19:1-6 and Exodus 20:1-17, where Moses receives the law from God at Mount Sinai.

The Judeo-Christian Foundation

The sermon begins by questioning and affirming the Judeo-Christian roots of Western civilization and the United States. The speaker emphasizes that biblical morality, as given through Moses, underpins the nation's founding principles. This foundation is crucial as it sets the stage for understanding how laws were established to maintain freedom and order.

Moses: From People to Nation

Exodus 19:1-6: Here, the Israelites arrive at the desert of Sinai, marking a pivotal moment where Moses meets with God to receive the law. This encounter is not just about legal codes but about forming a covenant that would unite the Israelites as a nation.

Exodus 20:1-17: This passage introduces the Ten Commandments, the moral laws written in stone by God's own finger. These commandments are the bedrock for Israel's nationhood and serve as a guide for moral and civil governance.

The Covenant and Its Importance

The sermon highlights two covenants:

The Abrahamic Covenant: A unilateral promise from God to Abraham, establishing a nation through grace.

The Mosaic Covenant: A bilateral agreement requiring the Israelites to obey God's laws to maintain their freedom and identity as a nation.

The speaker underscores that these covenants were not merely historical artifacts but living principles that shaped Israel and continue to influence modern governance and freedom.

The Role of the Ten Commandments

The Ten Commandments are divided into two categories:

Love and Honor God: The first four commandments focus on worship, reverence, and the sacredness of God's name and the Sabbath.

Love and Honor People: The remaining six commandments guide interpersonal relationships, emphasizing life, justice, and respect for others.

These principles are echoed in Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus summarizes the law as loving God and loving one's neighbor.

Lessons for Today

The sermon draws parallels between the founding of Israel and the United States, arguing that both were built on divine principles. The speaker cites historical figures like John Adams and Benjamin Franklin, who recognized the necessity of a moral foundation for sustaining a republic.

John Adams: Emphasized that the Constitution is only adequate for a moral and religious people.

Benjamin Franklin: Warned that maintaining a republic requires adherence to moral laws.

Conclusion

The message concludes with a call to action: as individuals and as a nation, we must embrace the freedom given to us by God through faith in Jesus Christ. The laws and principles established by God through Moses are not just ancient texts but living guides for maintaining freedom and justice today.

The sermon ends with a prayer of gratitude for the freedoms enjoyed and a reminder of the responsibility to uphold them through faith and moral integrity.

For further reflection on these themes, consider reading Exodus 19 and Exodus 20 in full to understand the foundation of the laws that shaped a nation and continue to influence us today. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Teach Us to Pray: Jesus' High Priestly Prayer

In our concluding session of "Truth Worth Living," we delve into the profound insights of Jesus' High Priestly Prayer, specifically focusing on John 17:20-26. This prayer, offered by Jesus in the upper room before His arrest, is a testament to His love and vision for His followers.

The Vision of Unity

Central to Jesus' prayer is the theme of unity among believers. He envisions a community that mirrors the divine unity of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This unity is not merely a call for harmony but a strategic alignment against the forces of darkness. Jesus emphasizes that we, as His followers, are not on the defensive; instead, we are called to actively engage and advance the kingdom of light.

The Call to Action

Jesus' prayer is a clarion call to action. Just as Admiral Bill Halsey urged his commanders in World War II to "strike," Jesus calls us to strike against the kingdom of darkness. This proactive stance requires us to embody the unity and love that characterize the Trinity.

The Essence of Trinitarian Unity

The unity Jesus prays for is rooted in Trinitarian fellowship—an absence of selfish ambition and competition. He desires that this divine harmony be reflected in the Body of Christ. The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his letter to the Romans, where he explains that each member of the Body belongs to all the others. This unity is achieved through love and mutual service, prioritizing the success and preferences of others over our own.

Reflecting Divine Love

To mirror the unity of the Trinity, love must abound among us. Love compels us to serve others, to seek their success, and to put their preferences above our own. This selfless love is the first step in reflecting Trinitarian fellowship within the Church.

Utilizing Our Gifts

Another aspect of this unity is the commitment to God's mission. Just as the Trinity functions with different roles to accomplish divine purposes, believers are called to use their unique gifts to build up the Church. This cooperative effort glorifies God and spreads His love and light in the world.

A Vision Worth Pursuing

Jesus prayed that our unity and love would distinguish us from the darkness of the world. His vision is for us to embody the perfect fellowship found in the Trinity. This is a vision worth pursuing—a truth worth living.

Conclusion

As we conclude this series, we are reminded of the power of unity and love in advancing God's kingdom. Jesus' High Priestly Prayer is a powerful reminder of our calling to reflect divine unity and love in our lives. As we go on a summer sabbatical, let us carry this vision in our hearts, ready to return with renewed purpose and passion.

May God bless you and keep you, and may His face shine upon you, granting you peace. We look forward to continuing our journey together after Labor Day with more "Truth Worth Living." Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Moses in the Wilderness: A Journey of Humility and Divine Calling

In the fourth episode of our series on Moses, we delve into the transformative years Moses spent in the desert, a period that refined his character and prepared him for God's mission. The story, rooted in Exodus 2:3 and Exodus 3:1-10, provides profound insights into God's ways and how He prepares us for His purposes.

The Desert Experience

Moses, once a prince of Egypt, found himself in the wilderness of Midian, a stark contrast to the splendor he was accustomed to. This wilderness was not just a physical place but a spiritual crucible where Moses faced his deepest desolation. Despite having a family, he named his son Gershom, meaning "foreigner in a foreign land," reflecting his inner turmoil and sense of displacement.

The desert, as explained, is a place where God speaks, a concept rooted in the Hebrew word midbar, meaning "to speak." In this barren land, stripped of worldly comforts and distractions, Moses was positioned to hear God’s voice. This period was crucial for Moses to shed the pride of his past and embrace humility, paving the way for God to use him mightily.

God’s Unwavering Faithfulness

During Moses' time in Midian, the Israelites in Egypt cried out in their suffering. Interestingly, Exodus 2:23-25 reveals that their cries were not specifically directed to God, yet God, in His grace, responded. This highlights a key theme: God’s faithfulness is not contingent on our perfect prayers but on His promises and character.

God remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, showcasing His unwavering commitment to His people despite their waywardness. This divine response underscores the truth that God hears and answers prayers, proving His deity by doing what no other god can do.

The Call of Moses

In Exodus 3:1-10, God appears to Moses in a burning bush, a pivotal moment marking the beginning of Moses’ divine mission. God declares His intent to rescue the Israelites and calls Moses to lead this mission. This encounter transforms the desert into holy ground, a place where God confirms Moses' calling.

Moses’ initial response to God’s call reflects his newfound humility. Unlike his younger self, who was eager to act on his own accord, Moses now questions, "Who am I?" This humility, forged through years of hardship, made him ready to partner with God in delivering His people.

Lessons from the Wilderness

God’s Aim is Transformation: The desert is not merely a place of trial but a tool for God to refine us. God is more interested in making us better than just making our circumstances better.

Humility as a Prerequisite: True service to God begins with humility. As Philippians 2:5-8 illustrates, Jesus exemplified this by humbling Himself to the point of death.

Trust in God’s Grace: Even when our prayers are imperfect, God’s grace is sufficient. He works in our lives to fulfill His purposes, often in ways we cannot foresee.

Worship in the Wilderness: In times of desolation, we are called to worship and listen for God’s voice, trusting that He is at work even when we feel abandoned.

In conclusion, Moses' journey from the palace to the desert teaches us about the power of humility, the faithfulness of God, and the transformative potential of the wilderness. As we reflect on these truths, may we be encouraged to embrace our own desert experiences, knowing that God is with us, speaking, refining, and preparing us for His divine purposes. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Teach Us to Pray: Lessons from Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer

In this episode of "Truth Worth Living," we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus' high priestly prayer as recorded in John 17. This prayer, offered in the upper room before Jesus' arrest and crucifixion, provides deep insights into the nature of prayer and the mission of believers in the world.

Jesus’ Joy Amidst Trials

One of the most striking aspects of Jesus’ prayer is His joy despite the impending trials. As He prays for Himself, His disciples, and future believers, Jesus demonstrates a profound sense of joy. This joy is not just for Himself but is a gift He desires for His disciples, knowing that it will be their strength in the challenging times ahead. John 17:13 highlights this: "...that they may have a full measure of my joy within them."

Protection from the Evil One

Jesus acknowledges the hatred His disciples will face from the world because they are not of the world, just as He is not. His prayer is not for their removal from the world but for their protection from the evil one. This is crucial because the world’s hatred manifests in two primary attacks: fear and doubt.

Fear: If disciples fear the world or the evil one more than God, they might retreat from their mission.

Doubt: If they doubt the truth they believe in, their light dims, leaving the world in darkness.

Jesus’ prayer in John 17:15 is a plea for divine protection: "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one."

The Call to Sanctification

Sanctification is a central theme in Jesus’ prayer. He prays for His disciples to be sanctified by the truth, emphasizing that "Your word is truth" (John 17:17). Sanctification is the process of being set apart for a divine purpose, and it is through this that disciples are prepared to face the world's challenges.

Jesus underscores that just as He was sent into the world, He is sending His disciples into the world with a mission. Their sanctification is essential for them to fulfill their kingdom-building purpose. He concludes this part of the prayer by affirming His own sanctification for their sake, ensuring they too may be truly sanctified (John 17:19).

Conclusion: A Truth Worth Living

The high priestly prayer of Jesus encapsulates the essence of living a life of faith amidst a challenging world. It is a call to embrace joy, seek protection from spiritual adversaries, and pursue sanctification through truth. Jesus’ prayer is a testament to His love and commitment to His disciples and all future believers.

As we reflect on this powerful prayer, we are reminded of the strength and joy that come from a life rooted in Christ. May we, like the disciples, be sanctified by the truth and equipped to shine as lights in a world that desperately needs hope.

Thank you for joining this exploration of Jesus’ prayer. May God bless you and keep you, and may His face shine upon you, giving you peace. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Discovering God's Purpose: Lessons from Moses

In our continuing series on Moses, we delve into the pivotal moments of his life that reveal profound insights into discovering and fulfilling God's purpose. This narrative, particularly grounded in Exodus 2, Acts 7, and Hebrews 11, offers a rich tapestry of lessons applicable to our spiritual journeys.

Moses’ Early Life and Purpose

Moses' story is a testament to the intricate ways God prepares us for our divine purpose. Raised in Pharaoh's palace, Moses had access to the best education, becoming "powerful in speech and action" as noted in Acts 7:22. His upbringing in both Egyptian royalty and Hebrew faith uniquely positioned him for his future role as a leader.

Key Lessons from Moses' Life

Preparation and Purpose:

Moses' education at the Temple of the Sun, akin to the "Oxford of the ancient world," equipped him with skills in leadership, language, and military tactics.

His formative years with his Hebrew family instilled a deep faith and knowledge of God's promises, laying the foundation for his life's mission.

Passion and Sacrifice:

Moses' decision to identify with his Hebrew roots, as described in Hebrews 11:24-26, highlights his willingness to forsake Egyptian riches for God's calling. This choice underscores the importance of aligning our passions with divine purpose.

Timing and Trust in God:

Despite knowing his mission, Moses initially acted on his own timing, leading to dire consequences. His attempt to deliver his people prematurely resulted in exile, teaching us the critical lesson of waiting on God's timing.

The Turning Point: The Burning Bush

While many associate Moses' calling with the burning bush encounter, it's crucial to note that this event was a confirmation rather than a revelation of his purpose. Moses had long understood his role, but the burning bush marked the moment God empowered and released him to act.

Spiritual Insights

God’s Timing:

Moses' story illustrates the necessity of aligning with God's timing. His initial failure was due to acting independently of God's plan. As Zechariah 4:6 reminds us, "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty."

Dependence on God:

Jesus’ words in John 15:5 emphasize the futility of pursuing God's work without His guidance: "Apart from me, you can do nothing." Moses' eventual success came from learning to rely entirely on God.

Applying Moses' Lessons to Our Lives

Identify Your Preparation: Reflect on your life experiences, education, and skills. How have these prepared you for God's calling?

Passion as a Guide: What ignites your passion? If it aligns with God's will and inspires sacrifice, it likely points to your purpose.

Wait on God: Learn from Moses' initial misstep. Trust in God's timing and seek His guidance before moving forward.

In conclusion, Moses' journey from a prince of Egypt to a leader of God's people offers timeless wisdom on discovering and fulfilling divine purpose. By embracing these lessons, we can align our lives more closely with God's will, ensuring our actions resonate with His eternal plan. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Teach Us to Pray: Jesus' High Priestly Prayer

In this episode of "Truth Worth Living," we delve deeper into the profound moments of Jesus' high priestly prayer as recounted in John 17:6-19. This prayer, uttered by Jesus in the upper room just before his crucifixion, reveals his deep concern and love for his disciples and, by extension, all believers. Let's explore the key themes and insights from this prayer.

Jesus' Prayer for His Disciples

Jesus' prayer in John 17:6-19 is a testament to his role as a steward of the disciples entrusted to him by God. Here, Jesus acknowledges:

Revelation and Belief: Jesus begins by confessing that he has revealed God's truth to those given to him. These disciples have accepted and believed that Jesus was sent by God, recognizing his words as the source of eternal life.

Stewardship: Jesus views his mission as that of a steward, caring for his disciples as a gift from God. A steward in biblical times was responsible for managing the master's household and resources, ensuring everything ran smoothly and profitably. Similarly, Jesus faithfully passed on God's truth and created an environment for his disciples to thrive in their mission.

Protection and Unity: Jesus prays for the protection of his disciples, asking that they may be united just as he is with the Father. He highlights that while he will no longer be physically present, the disciples will remain in the world and need divine protection.

Distinctiveness of Believers

A significant part of Jesus' prayer is his explicit distinction between believers and the world. He states:

Selective Prayer: Jesus mentions, "I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours." This statement underscores the unique relationship between Jesus and his followers, emphasizing their role in God's kingdom.

Heresy of Universalism: Jesus' prayer challenges the notion that all will be saved regardless of belief. He distinguishes between those who accept him and those who do not, highlighting that only believers are destined for eternal life with God.

The Role of a Good Steward

Jesus' acknowledgment of his stewardship role provides a model for believers today. As stewards of God's message and mission, we are called to:

Faithfully Share God's Truth: Just as Jesus imparted God's words to his disciples, we are tasked with sharing the gospel with others.

Create Environments for Growth: It's essential to cultivate spaces where believers can grow in faith and prepare for missional living.

Pray for Protection and Unity: In a world filled with challenges, praying for divine protection and unity among believers is crucial.

Conclusion

Jesus' high priestly prayer in John 17:6-19 offers profound insights into his love and commitment to his disciples. It reminds us of our role as stewards of God's truth and the importance of unity and protection in our faith journey. As we reflect on this prayer, may we strive to live by the truth Jesus imparted and be faithful stewards of the mission entrusted to us.

Join us next week as we continue to explore this pivotal prayer and its implications for our lives today. May God's peace and blessings be with you. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107

Moses - A Story of Faith and Deliverance

In this week's sermon, we continued our exploration of the life of Moses, focusing on the theme of faith and deliverance. The story of Moses is deeply intertwined with the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan, which is evident throughout the Bible.

Key Scripture References

Galatians 4:4: "But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law."

Genesis 41:38: Pharaoh recognizes the spirit of God in Joseph.

Exodus 1-2: The birth and early life of Moses.

Hebrews 11:23: By faith, Moses’ parents hid him for three months.

Joshua 24:14: Encouragement to serve the Lord faithfully.

2 Chronicles 16:9: "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."

The Story of Moses

The narrative begins with the Israelites enslaved in Egypt, a time when a new Pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, rose to power. This Pharaoh, fearing the growing number of Israelites, enacted a genocidal decree to kill all Hebrew baby boys. However, the story of Moses begins with an act of defiance and faith by his parents, who hid him for three months.

The Role of Faith

Active Faith: Moses' parents demonstrated incredible faith by defying Pharaoh's edict, a theme echoed in Hebrews 11:23. Their actions were driven by a fear of God rather than fear of man.

Fear of God: This fear is described as "faith in selfless action." It is the courage to act according to God's will, even when it means standing against worldly powers.

The Deliverance Plan

God's Timing: Just as Jesus came "when the set time had fully come" (Galatians 4:4), Moses was born at a crucial time to deliver God's people.

Divine Protection: The midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, feared God and protected the Hebrew boys, including Moses, which was crucial for the deliverance plan.

Lessons for Today

God Works Through Faith: God often chooses to work through those who fear Him, as seen in the faith of Moses' parents and the midwives. FB Meyer notes that God seeks the cooperation of man in fulfilling His purposes.

Fear of God vs. Fear of Man: The sermon challenges us to examine whether we truly fear God, which should lead to a life distinguishable from the world. The fear of God gives us the courage to resist societal pressures.

God's Search for the Faithful: 2 Chronicles 16:9 reminds us that God is actively seeking those whose hearts are fully committed to Him, to strengthen them for His purposes.

Conclusion

The story of Moses is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of living a life of active faith. As we reflect on this narrative, we are encouraged to examine our own lives and ask if we are living in the fear of God, allowing Him to work through us to bring about change in the world. Let us be inspired by the courage of Moses' parents and the midwives, and strive to be the faithful servants God seeks to advance His kingdom. Skycrest Community Church · 125 N Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL 33765

Sundays: Group Bible Studies 9:00 AM · Worship 10:30 AM

Wednesdays: Pastor's Bible Study 6:30 PM

Plan your visit, watch live, or give: https://skycrestfamily.org

Questions or prayer requests: [email protected] · (727) 791-7107