Withstanding Spiritual Agony

Dennis McCallum

Philippians 4:7

Paul taught us that it is important when we face times of spiritual agony to look back at the message that God has carved into our hearts. God writes His message in our lives through the experiences that we have, where we see Him provide for us or use us in other people's lives. When we look at all that God has done for us, it becomes clear that He will continue to work in our lives, and that we are headed toward overwhelming victory in Him.

Jonathan: Spiritual Friendships

Dennis McCallum

2 Samuel 1:15-17

Through the friendship between David and Jonathan (Saul's son), we get a clear picture of spiritual friendship. Each man was loyal to God first, and this allowed them the ability to develop loyalty to one another knowing that they each desired to follow God. Jonathan knew that it was God's will for David to one day be king instead of him, despite being the sitting prince. He was determined to see God's will established even at his own expense. Though his father was jealous of David, Jonathan chose to love David as he loved himself, forsaking family and the throne.

Serving Love in the Body of Christ (Part 2)

Dennis McCallum

1 Thessalonians 5:11-15

In 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15 we cover five more aspects of ministry that are imperative for a body of Christ to be effective: 1) encourage one another; 2) admonish one another; 3) care for the weak; 4) exercise patience with one another; and 5) continue to show God's grace to each another. A community rich in those traits will thrive: members will grow spiritually and feel an extraordinary sense of belonging; their unity will also be an effective witness of God's love toward non-Christians.

Water to Wine

Gary DeLashmutt

Isaiah 25:6-9

Jesus' first miracle was to turn water into wine. Jesus condemned the ritualistic relating of the people of his day, while showing his love and compassion for the people in his life. God is a good God, and He has good and wonderful plans for our eternity.

Motivation in Discipleship

Dennis McCallum

Isaiah 25:6-9

Dennis McCallum explains what it looks like to effectively motivate people through discipleship. People must be convinced of the correctness and urgency of Christian goals to such an extent that they're eager to act and keep acting to reach those goals regardless of what other people do or think. This requires instruction, modeling, direct influence, and occasional reproof. Although this works best in one-on-one relationships, these principles can work in small group settings as well.

World View Model of Discipleship

Gene Getz

Isaiah 25:6-9

Gene Getz explains his World View Model of Discipleship and how to help a church grow. He begins by explaining his succession plan and how others will step in to take over when he retires. He also explains four key functions of a growing church and defines fellowship segmentation. The emphasis is on understanding where people are at and seeking to get them involved in community. Gene concludes by encouraging people to learn to think about life through a biblical lens.\r\n

The Great Secret: Dealing with Negativity

Dennis McCallum

Romans 8:5-7

Paul called the Philippians to set their minds on the good things that are true of them in Christ. Paul found contentment in rejoicing in God's Love and trusting in His provision. Our relationship with God gives us a firm basis for joy.

What Does Spiritual Maturity Look Like?

Dennis McCallum

Ephesians 4:3

Paul explained that trusting in the Lord and rejoicing in Him are not the fruit of happiness, but they are the means of attaining joy. When we face our anxieties how much of the time are we forgetting to put our trust in the Lord and/or depending on Him? This was key for Paul in his fight against anxiety in times of severe persecution.

The Body of Christ (Part 2)

Dennis McCallum

Romans 12:7-8

The Body of Christ has been given a number of spiritual gifts to edify and serve the people in the church and around the world. God's given people gifts of service, understanding God's Truth, and through prayer. When we serve and love people, we live out God's mission for our lives.