Weekend Message | Becoming Who We Are - Session 4 of 5 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always 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 time in Session 4, Beth teaches us to embrace the goodness of our limitations because it vastly increases our confidence. Generally speaking, our limitations are good. They're God ordained and built-in! 

How good are they? For instance, they keep us needing Jesus, instead of trying to be like Him. They keep us needing others, instead of becoming our own little, isolated islands. And, importantly, they keep us humble.

Humility is a good thing. And if we're willing, our limitations keep us learning, because we realize what we don't know, and what we need to know. And, again, if we are willing, our limitations keep us achieving.

There is so much more great teaching included in this message that you won't want to miss it. Make yourself comfortable and spend a little time with Beth Moore this weekend, won't you? It's definitely worth the time!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Hypocrisy and Pride: A Double-Edged Sword

"It is common for those that are farthest from God, to boast themselves most of their being near to the Church."  - Matthew Henry, British Nonconformist and Presbyterian minister (1662-1714)

Jim Jones, a self-proclaimed cult leader, built the Peoples Temple along with a life of deception. He diverted his followers' money while manipulating them in his cult. In the end, over 900 of his followers died as the result of a forced mass suicide at Jonestown, Guyana in 1978.

This unfortunate incident is an extreme example of how hypocrisy and pride, if allowed to thrive, can result in catastrophic consequences. To aid in our discussion of these, let's first examine what they are.

• Hypocrisy is defined as the difference between one's public image and their true nature, a display of virtue that conceals an insincere or immoral heart.
• Pride, a form of self-worship, is often the underlying cause of this deception.

Using scriptural examples, we can learn how to identify these sins (hypocrisy and pride) in our lives and strive for humility. Let's start by first examining hypocrisy, which is, as we will see, just a hollow façade concealing a person's inner moral emptiness with an outward appearance of righteousness. 

Jesus himself harshly rebuked the religious leaders of his day for their hypocrisy, providing purposeful illustrations of its nature, as in:

• Matthew 7:3-5 - Jesus uses the embellished imagery of a person with a large "plank" in their own eye trying to remove a tiny "speck" of sawdust from someone else's eye to illustrate the hypocrisy of focusing on the minor faults of others' while ignoring one's own much larger shortcomings.
• Matthew 23:25-28 -  Jesus admonishes the Pharisees and teachers of the law for their hypocrisy, comparing them to cups and tombs that are clean on the outside but full of greed, self-indulgence, and inner wickedness. He encourages them to first cleanse the inside of their hearts to become truly righteous, instead of just maintaining a beautiful outward appearance.

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above):

1. What does the imagery of "whitewashed tombs" teach us about the heart of a hypocrite?
2. What is the main idea of the "log and speck" lesson? What message does this convey regarding the connection between pride and judgement?

Now, let's move on to the nature of pride. The Bible directly teaches that pride is detestable to the Lord, and paves the way to destruction. C.S. Lewis called pride "the complete anti-God state of mind." Here are a few examples:

• Proverbs 16:5 (NIV) - This verse points out that God finds pride in the heart detestable and promise that these sorts of people will answer for their arrogance. 
• Proverbs 16:18 (NIV) - This verse cautions that excessive arrogance and a haughty attitude can lead to ruin and downfall. It emphasizes the danger of self-confidence that becomes an inflated ego, which can result in significant physical or spiritual damage. 
• Proverbs 16:19 (NIV) - This verse underscores the value of humility and the negative consequences of arrogance. It suggests that it is more beneficial to empathize with the oppressed and be humble than to associate with the proud, especially if that association involves unfair or unlawful personal benefit.

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above): 

1. As stated by these verses, what is God's view of a proud heart?
2. How does the warning "Pride goes before destruction" in verse 18 reveal itself in people's lives?

We've now seen some scriptural causes and consequences of hypocrisy and pride. The Bible also shares some ways to remedy them, such as veering away from both through sincere humility and repentance. 

In this manner, we recognize that real value is not derived from the praise of others but from the grace of God, as shown in:

1. James 4:6-10 (NIV) - This passage is a strong encouragement for believers to reject pride and embrace humility, leading to a restored relationship with God.
2. 1 John 1:9 (NIV) - This verse highlights that God's character of faithfulness and justice provides assurance of forgiveness and cleansing for those who humbly acknowledge their sins. 

Thoughts to Reflect On (using the Bible references given above): 

1. What core distinction does John derive from 1 John 1:9?
2. How does obedience to God and resisting the devil relate to overcoming hypocrisy and pride?

In general, it can be said that hypocrisy and pride are like a double-edged sword. Both are involved in self-glorification, either by claiming recognition for God's blessings or by misrepresenting a false image to the world.

The sole remedy is to redirect attention from ourselves to God and others. We must show humility, thus allowing God's grace to reveal and cleanse our "inner" life so that our "outer" life can evolve into an authentic representation of His character.

Prayer: "Dear God, I confess my own hypocrisy and pride, and ask for Your forgiveness. Open my eyes to see Your truth, so that I may constantly seek it and be protected from my own self-deception. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Lamai

Bible Studies To-Go | Spiritually Complete in Christ

"You will never know the fullness of Christ until you know the emptiness of everything else." - Charles H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

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. More detailed Bible studies can easily be obtained from other sources, if one prefers that.

Study Prayer: "Dear Lord, we know that all wisdom and understanding come from you. Please grant us your wisdom as we read your Word, to avoid dependency on our own understanding. Help us discern your truth and be transformed by what we learn. In Your name, Amen."

Background Information: In Colossians 2:10, Paul was addressing the believers in the church at Colossae, a city in modern-day Turkey. He wrote this encouraging letter from prison to counter a specific false teaching, or heresy, that was threatening their faith.

Topic for Study: Spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. 

In the passage mentioned above, the focal point is on how believers are made complete in Christ. This is a state of spiritual fulfillment and wholeness that is found exclusively in Him, who is the head of all spiritual authorities. 

These authorities can be individuals or institutions holding divinely-delegated power and the right to guide, teach, and govern in religious or spiritual matters. Regardless, Jesus Christ has sovereign authority and lordship over the church and the cosmos. 

Thought-Provoking Questions: What is the central message of  Colossians 2:10? What does it mean for believers to be "complete in Him?"

Study the above 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 our topic of discussion. You will find these related verses will help to clarify some of the points raised in the discussion.

• John 1:16
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Ephesians 1:21
• Colossians 1:16-17
• 1 Peter 3:22

** Read Colossians 2 prior to answering the following questions!**

 

Contextual Questions: 

1. What traditions or practices were the Colossian believers being pressured to adopt that Paul argues against by emphasizing their completeness in Christ?
2. How does understanding that the Colossians were a mix of Jewish and Gentile Christians help explain the pressure they were facing to adopt new rituals and beliefs?

Evidence-Based Questions:

1. How does Paul's declaration that believers "are complete in Him" directly contradict the specific legalistic, ritualistic, and ascetic teachings that were troubling the Colossian church (Colossians 2:8, 2:16–23)?
2. How does Christ's victory over the rulers and authorities (Colossians 2:15) provide reassurance to the Colossians that they are secure in their union with Christ and do not need to seek protection from false religious practices?
3. Given that the Colossians were warned against practices involving angel worship (Colossians 2:18), how does Colossians 2:10's emphasis on Christ as head over all rule and authority address this specific heresy?

Questions for Personal Insight/Application: 

1. How does a correct understanding of Colossians 2:10 impact the Christian's daily life? 
2. If a believer is already "complete in him," how should this truth influence their attitude toward spiritual striving, legalism, and reliance on external rituals?
3. How does the concept of being "complete in him" challenge the modern idea that personal fulfillment and meaning must be found outside of a relationship with Christ?

Food For Thought:

• How does knowing that you are "complete in Him" impact your daily life as a Christian?

I hope that this condensed study format paves 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!

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle

Do You Take God Seriously?

"The farther we get from God, the more the world spirals out of control."  - Billy Graham, American evangelist (1918-2018)

Previously, we discussed our reliance on God for strength, purpose, and our abilities in life. In short, we are totally dependent on Him for our existence, spiritual power, and our potential to achieve things of spiritual significance.

Now, using Psalm 76, we shall take a concise look at God's greatness and power, His control of all situations, and how He is a sovereign, formidable defender who hands down judgment on the enemies of His people as a protector.

The psalm itself is a song of worship praising God's power and wisdom. Though not explicitly stated, the majority of scholars agree that it observes the miraculous defeat of the Assyrian army during their attack on Jerusalem in 701 B.C.

If you'd care to examine it, this important event is chronicled in 2 Kings 19 and Isaiah 37. To help provide clarity, I've furnished a short outline of Psalm 76 below.

• God's earthly dwelling place (vv.1-3)
• God is all-powerful; man is not (vv. 4-6)
• The justice of the Lord (vv. 7-9)
• An appeal to worship and vows (vv. 10-12)

Living in today's world is not easy. We need all the assistance we can get to help us live life to the fullest. This psalm especially teaches us that God is on our side in the battles of life. 

It teaches us that nothing man can do frightens God in the least. God, who is always in control, can readily humble the most powerful earthly rulers. Nothing compares to the sovereignty of God as so many have found out the hard way.

Some points for consideration and discussion:

1. Psalm 76 highlights God's power over human rulers and military might. How does the psalm describe the ineffectiveness of leaning on earthly strength (vv. 5–6)? What modern-day "superpowers" do people trust in, and how does this passage challenge that trust?
2. The psalm says, "It is you alone who are to be feared. Who can stand before you when you are angry?" (v. 7). What is the difference between a "healthy fear" of God and being "afraid" of him? How can both motivate a person toward him?
3. Psalm 76 is thought to be a hymn celebrating a specific victory for Israel. How does remembering God's past acts of deliverance, both individually and collectively, help us trust him in both present and future struggles?

Amazingly, even the wicked motives and malice of God's enemies ultimately serve to glorify Him by creating an opportunity for God to demonstrate His power and justice. His actions also encourage us to honor, respect, and demonstrate steadfastness toward Him, as well.

Scripture: Psalm 46:10; Psalm 135:6; Proverbs 16:33; Isaiah 45:5-7; Romans 8:28

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me always be aware of how much I need You in every situation. Open my ears to hear what You say and grant me the grace to trust Your wisdom and timing, even during periods of hardship. Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Charlotte

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