Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 3 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It has always been our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we continue a 5-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. These are full presentations of one of her teaching sessions, not video clips, so be prepared to receive lots of great information!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Here in Session 3, Beth teaches us what it means to deceive, to be deceived, and how the difference between a liar and a deceiver often comes down to success rate. But more importantly, she says, "We faced a more personal truth: we all carry an imposter within us!"

Rather than shaming that part of ourselves, let's lean into the understanding that wrestling is a form of intimacy. We see Jacob engage in his first honest fight in Genesis 32:24-32, a powerful moment not because it gave him all the answers but because, in Beth's words, "It brought him into contact, face to face with God." 

We discover a powerful truth: when we build relationships from our false selves, we often get trapped because those relationships can't truly hold the real us. So, let's break that pattern by remembering the three perimeters: Authenticity with all, transparency with most, and intimacy with some.

These guidelines will help us stay true to who we are becoming, heed the inner warnings, and avoid falling into old traps. It's not about having it all figured out—just about showing up more honestly, together.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

In What Do You Base Your Self-Worth?

"You say, 'If I had a little more, I should be very satisfied.' You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled."  - C.H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

A large proportion of people's self-worth is often influenced by external forces such as social approval, engagement in meaningful activities like work or academics, appearance, and the successes of their family and children. 

Without question, all of these are certainly good and valid reasons. But allow me to add a point to ponder, if you will. For the believer in Jesus Christ, we need to remember that our true worth cannot be determined by earthly standards.

Rather, it is found in the transformative power of seeking first the kingdom of God. In other words, our true worth or self-value should instead come from a deep, spiritual relationship with Christ, which truly supplies life-changing power.

This is a directive to prioritize spiritual growth over material success, acknowledging that only by knowing and abiding in Him can one build a life of lasting significance. Here are some bible verses to reinforce our discussion:

• Philippians 3:7-9 - points out the Apostle Paul's perspective of his worldly accomplishments as rubbish compared to knowing Christ.
• Matthew 6:19-21 - motivates the pursuit of spiritual wealth over earthly wealth, accenting or stressing that your heart follows your treasure.
• Colossians 3:1-2 - advises focusing on divine affairs in contrast to earthly ones.
• Romans 12:2 - implores for transformation through the renewal of the mind, rather than compliance to the world.
• Ephesians 2:10 - maintains that believers are God's creation, intended for good works.

Essentially, this message is to remind all of us to shift our perspective from external results to internal spiritual reality, recognizing that true identity and security lies in Christ, not material wealth, possessions, and worldly goods. 

Scripture: Proverbs 3:13–15; John 10:10; Romans 8:38–39; Colossians 2:9–10; 1 Peter 2:9

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for showing my true value through your unconditional love and grace through the eternal truth that I am your creation and your beloved child. Amen."

May God bless you always,

Liana

Bible Studies To-Go | Jesus, A Physician for Spiritual Sickness

"Let us understand that God is a physician, and that suffering is a medicine for salvation, not a punishment for damnation.." - Augustine of Hippo, theologian, writer, preacher, rhetorician, and bishop (354-430 A.D.)

The ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the contemporary believer who desires to enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

Our short studies focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others. Detailed Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

The topic for study presently is: Jesus, the healer of spiritual sickness. Mark 2:13-17 will serve as our focal point. It would be most advantageous to read this passage before proceeding with the subject.

In the verses mentioned above, the center of attention is on Jesus' mission to heal spiritual sickness, that is, those who are spiritually broken and need salvation. Thus establishing Himself as the Great Physician.

Thought-Provoking Questions: Do you see yourself as spiritually "sick"? Or, do you consider yourself spiritually "healthy"? 

Consider these questions carefully. You may want to write your thoughts down to help you stay on task and limit diversions. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers here, just be upfront.

Below, I have provided some scripture passages that are associated with this topic of discussion. You will find these related verses will help to clarify some of the points raised in the discussion.

• Isaiah 55:7
• Matthew 9:13
• Luke 5:32
• Luke 15:7 
• 1 Timothy 1:15

Mark 2:13-17 draws attention to Jesus' invitation of Levi, a tax collector, and his following meal with other tax collectors and sinners. This important event challenges the social and religious norms of the time and makes known a core aspect of His mission.

Contextual Questions:

1. Who was Levi in the passage and why were tax collectors despised in that society?
2. Who were the Pharisees and what was their primary concern?

Evidence-Based Questions:

1. What does the call of Levi reveal about Jesus' mission and character?
2. What made Jesus's acceptance of people deemed "unclean" so offensive to the religious establishment?
3. How does the metaphor of a doctor for the sick explain Jesus' mission to call sinners to repentance?
4. In Luke 5:32, Jesus says "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners..." What is meant by His statement, given that all have sinned?

Questions for Personal Insight: 

1. In what ways does engaging in genuine fellowship with non-believers, as Jesus did, serve as a form of evangelism?
2. How does religious pride prevent us from seeing our own sinfulness and need for Jesus?
3. Why is the comprehension of Jesus as a physician for the spiritually ill, rather than the morally upright, crucial for spiritual growth?

Food For Thought:

• This passage calls us to maximize our abilities by moving beyond familiar boundaries. How can you show Christ's love to someone who may not feel accepted or seen by the church?

I trust that this condensed study format opens the way for more time to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited about our next Bible study, and eagerly look forward to our next meeting!

Closing Prayer: "Dear Lord, we are thankful for the insights and truths shared today. Thank You for Your faithfulness and for the way Your Word transforms us. May You guide us and keep us safe. In Jesus' name, Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Sanctification: A Lifelong Journey

"The growth of trees and plants takes place so slowly that it is not easily seen. Daily we notice little change. But, in course of time, we see that a great change has taken place. So it is with grace. Sanctification is a progressive, lifelong work."  - John Owen, English Puritan Nonconformist church leader, and theologian (1616-1683)

During the course of our lifetimes we can experience many major events that occur only once. Becoming a parent for the first time, getting married, graduating from a school or university, and buying a first home are some examples.

When it comes to our relationship with God, however, He is never finished working on, in, and through us. And so it is with our sanctification. In biblical terms, "sanctification" means being "set apart" for God's special use and made holy.

Our sanctification is a continual journey that starts after salvation, and is both lifelong and enduring. It is where a believer, in a slow, step-by-step change, is transformed into the likeness of Christ with the help of the Holy Spirit.

This evolution occurs in different phases, as briefly indicated below,

1. Positional (Past) Sanctification: This takes place at the moment of salvation when a believer is proclaimed to be righteous and "set apart" in Christ.
2. Progressive (Present) Sanctification: The process of growing (maturing) spiritually and becoming more holy with every day of our lives.
3. Perfect (Future) Sanctification: This is the final product, so to speak. It is the total, concluding sanctification occurring when believers receive their eternal bodies and are completely unified with Christ in heaven.  

As noted, sanctification is a process of growth and maturity. It may be gradual and even difficult to perceive, but the general trend should always show an advancement toward holiness.

In a nutshell, it develops through spiritual practices (disciplines) such as reading the Bible, prayer, and active participation in church. By our yielding to God, whereby we voluntarily submit our will to God and His will and trust the process.

There is also our spiritual growth, or the process where there is an increase in our faith, humility, and obedient self-control. Finally, the process is ultimately fulfilled when we are glorified and conformed to the image of God, becoming like Jesus.

As discussed, this dynamic process includes both divine initiative and human response. In the end, ongoing sanctification is a testament to God's faithfulness and a commitment on the part of the believer to grow in Christlikeness. 

I highly recommend that you explore this central and crucial doctrine in Christian theology further!

Scripture: John 17:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 1 Corinthians 6:11; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Timothy 2:21

Prayer: "Dear Lord, create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me, Amen. - Psalm 51:10 (NIV)

Yours in Christ,

Emily

Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 2 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It has always been our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This weekend, we continue a 5-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. These are full presentations of one of her teaching sessions, not video clips, so be prepared to receive lots of great information!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

This complete lesson centers around a single, transformative truth: “Everything about becoming who we are hinges on absorbing how we are loved.” 

The full extent of this series is devoted to becoming undisguised, and as Beth mentioned, for the person in Christ, the most ill-fitting of all possible disguises is walking as one UNLOVED. 

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

God's Mystery Is Our Salvation

"Father, son, and Holy Spirit mean that the mystery beyond us, the mystery among us, and the mystery within us are all the same mystery."  - Frederick Buechner, American author, Presbyterian minister, preacher, and theologian (1926-2022)

A general definition of the word "mystery" may be: something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain. Or, something kept secret, such as a phenomenon, person, or event that arouses curiosity or speculation. 

In the Bible, a "mystery" is not something that is unknowable, but rather a divine truth, God's plan, or a secret purpose that was previously hidden and later revealed through special revelation to God's chosen people. 

In Ephesians 3:2-6, Paul addresses the Gentile (non-Jewish) believers in Ephesus, explaining his role as the apostle to the Gentiles and the revelation of God's "mystery." 

The "mystery" is that God's eternal plan has brought Jews and Gentiles together as co-heirs and members of the same spiritual body, the Church, through Christ. Jesus Christ revealed the "mystery of Christ" to the apostle Paul through a direct revelation by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 3:3).

This truth was obscure to prior generations but is now clarified by the Holy Spirit. Although the Gentiles were blessed through Israel in the Old Testament, Paul's revelation makes known they are now equal partners in God's covenant.

How did the Jews feel about this? There was a deeply divided and often negative reaction to his teaching. After all, his "mystery of Christ" involved the radical inclusion of Gentiles as joint heirs with them in God's plan, disputing the prevailing religious separatism.

Bear in mind that the Jewish people did not generally accept the revelation of the "mystery of Christ." Instead, the majority rejected Jesus as the Messiah due to differing theological beliefs. Also, they initially feared Paul due to his fierce persecution of the early church before his conversion.

It should be noted that the truth was foreshadowed through prophecies, shadows, and "types" like the Passover lamb in the Old Testament, but it was not fully understood until the revelation of the Gospel in the New Testament era. 

A synopsis of Ephesians 3:2-6 is presented below:

• Ephesians 3:2 - Paul affirms his spiritual mandate to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles, considering his role a gift of God's grace.
• Ephesians 3:3-5 - The apostle explains that God imparted this "mystery" to him, a vague, perplexing truth in former times but now disclosed to the prophets and apostles through the Holy Spirit.
• Ephesians 3:6 -The "mystery" is openly declared: that "through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."

Essentially, this passage brings to light the "secret" that God's plan for the church is to integrate Jews and Gentiles under Christ, thereby forming a single, unified family that takes part in the inheritance and promises of God.

Scripture: Jeremiah 33:3; Matthew 13:11; Romans 16:25; Ephesians 1:9; Colossians 1:26-27

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for revealing Yourself to me in Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for the gift of Your Word, which gives me truth and understanding, and for the guidance of Your Holy Spirit. Amen."

May God bless you,

Dorit

Bible Studies To-Go | Give Your Burdens to the Lord

"The daily troubles we have are meant to drive us to God, to drive us to the promise, and also to show us where our weak points are, in order that we may contend with all our might against them."  - Charles Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

Our ©Bible Studies To-Go series presents abridged Scripture studies that are tailored for the modern believer who desires to supplement and enhance their Bible learning, but is limited by a demanding daily routine. 

More intensive Bible studies can easily be located, if one prefers that. Our studies will focus on themes, topics, and in some cases are even developed by questions we gather from our work with others.

The topic for this particular study is: taking our burdens to the Lord. We shall examine the Divine command to cast our cares on God and find peace in His sovereignty.

It's no secret that we all carry burdens in our daily lives. These can include personal responsibilities, spiritual and emotional weight, afflictions or failings, and sin. 

Question: What does it feel like to carry a heavy burden? Think carefully about this question and respond honestly. You may want to write your thoughts down to help you stay on task and remove any distractions.

Allow me to provide some key scriptural passages that demonstrate how to relinquish control and trust God's sustaining power for encouragement, comfort, and guidance. 

• Psalm 55:2 - This verse relates a deep emotional struggle and a plea for God's attention during personal strife, highlighting a need for God's intervention and presence when feeling abandoned.
• Matthew 11:28-30 - Here, Jesus invites the weary and burdened to find spiritual rest in Him, not by yielding to harsh religious laws or self-effort, but by taking on His gentle and light yoke of discipleship, which provides freedom and true refreshment for the soul.
• 1 Peter 5:7 - This verse is a command to entrust your concerns to God's capable hands, as He is sovereign and ultimately seeks to exalt (honor) those who humbly submit to Him. 

Questions for a more in-depth analysis of these verses:

• What promise of God is highlighted in Psalm 55:2?
• What does Jesus offer in Matthew 11:28-30?
• What are we encouraged to do in 1 Peter 5:7?

Realistic actions for casting our burdens can include: 

• praying, or making petitions or requests concerning our worries, 
• undertaking deep contemplation and meditation on biblical texts to understand their meaning, connect with God, and apply the truths found within them to your life
• seeking the support of others.

Food For Thought:

• Which "heavy load" feels most challenging for you to let go of?
• God's promise to sustain us can mean different things to all of us. What does it mean to you?
• How does the gentle nature of Jesus determine your willingness to share struggles?
• How does knowing God cares about you help with worries and concerns.
• How can you actively engage in prayer and seek help, guidance, or assistance from others his week?

I genuinely hope this condensed study format opens the way for more time to incorporate additional activities, methods, and reflections in deepening your understanding and retention of God's Word, the Bible. 

I'm excited about our next Bible study, and eagerly await the next time we meet!

Closing Prayer: "Dear Lord, thank You for the wisdom and truths we've shared today May our hearts remain open to Your Word and may we continue to grow in our faith. Help us carry Your teachings into our daily lives. Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle