The Connection Church-Deaf Christians!

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: NEW WEBSITE

2011-01-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

we have launched a new website: www.tccdeaf.com.

Everything about the Connection Church Deaf Ministry will be on that website.

This blog will be left up until a full transition has been made.

January 9th Bible Study Notes

2011-01-11T20:14:00.000-08:00

Introduced the blue letter blue website:
http://www.blueletterbible.org/study/

Key Word of the Bible Study: Disarm

We all need encouragement. We all get it from God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus. We get it from each other too. Some Christians or born- again believers are encouragers but some are not. It depends on the person's spiritual level.

Christians or born-again believers who do not encourage or do not get encouragement are “at risk” because that can lead to disarming and discouragement. Read 2 Corinthians 13:5-6

“Disarm” is removing obstacles or barriers. It also means to make something weaker or to stop something. For example, in the army, there are people who disarm bombs to prevent it from going off. There are different tools used to disarm bombs as we have different tools in our “toolbox” for our spiritual life and our relationship with God.

Question to the Audience: Who disarms your spirit?
Audience Answered: Yourself

Satan works hard to disarm you with temptations and sins but you have to be armed at all times.

The question: How can you disarm yourselves? The answer is in The Bible. It tells you how in verses Galatians 5:19-21. Those things mentioned in Galatians cause your spirit to become weak. It is as if Satan is using a screwdriver or a measuring tape to disarm your sprit.

Some people ask: Where is Jesus? Why is He not with me? But why do you ask those questions. He is already in you but you have chosen to look away and drift from Him. By doing this, you disarm yourself. Satan uses sin to draw you away from God. Satan does that to prevent you from having a relationship with God. When your spirit is frozen, you become disarmed.

Read: Galatians 5: 22-23
When you get on your knees, confess your sins and ask for forgiveness, God forgives your mistakes. He gives forgiveness freely and you will become armed again. Your spirit will develop fruits as you continue to grow in your relationship with God. The nine fruit of the spirit are mentioned in verses 22-23. They help you stay armed.

In your toolbox, you have many tools but you may struggle with those tools, trying to fix something in your life. It is a battle. But if the Holy Bible is in your toolbox, the Devil flees. You can’t just have or hold the bible! You must open it, read it, study and memorize it. You must follow His Word. Go to bible study; go to worship or whatever is available for you to study God’s Word.

Read: 1 John 1:8-10 And 1 Corinthians 9:24

Without God’s Word, you are lost. There is no direction or guidance without God.
People who are disarmed tends to be alone, with their own thoughts and emotions. The devil will use his tools to destroy your spirit. What do you do? Don't disarm yourself and be alone. If you know u are becoming disarmed, turn to God and tell Him that you need him. Ask him to send you the right helpers. Or Run to your brothers and sisters in Christ and get help. You have help in your church daily. You have helpers who are your brothers and sisters in Christ. Go to someone. Why do u think you can do it without God? Why do you think you can do it on your own? People can encourage each other but they cannot save you. You must turn to God and to His Word first then get help.
Ask God to send you help and he will take your life and lead you.

Read: Matthew 22:37-40
Mark 12: 28-32
Deut 6:4-7

You must love the Lord your God first in all 4 areas: heart, mind, soul n strength. Then, you must love others as you love yourself. If you are disarmed and do not love yourself but act happy or loving to others, your spiritual life will weaken. You must follow God first! You must follow His Word. You must use His tools. You cannot do it by yourself. You cannot save yourself or others. It is only God who can do it but he sends helpers to serve others for Him. When you are called to help others, use the Bible and what it teaches. Do not use your own experiences, feelings or knowledge. Practice God’s tools: love, patience, kindness and the other fruits of the spirit.

When u procrastinate with your sins, you brig wrath on yourself. If you choose not to follow the two commandments, you will be immature in your spirit.. Stop. Become true and follow God’s Word. Help each other. Encourage each other. Stay armed.

Closing Verse: Hebrew 10:25
Coming to God’s House is important because you learn God’s Word and have fellowship with each other. It is in God’s House and in fellowship that you can give and get support here. Don't give up coming to God’s house. Don’t become disarmed.

Character Counts!

2011-01-10T01:38:00.001-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being with me all the way. Let's give our hesitation and fear to the Lord. You will not fail us. You will be faithful to light our path and lead us in the way. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Character is what you do when nobody is watching.

Character is how you treat people who can do absolutely nothing for you.

Character is how you react when the pressure is on.

Character is deciding before that you are going to do the right thing.

In book of Psalm, chapter 25, verse 3-5.
3 No one who trusts in you will be ever disgraced, but disgrace come to those who try to deceive others.

4 Show me the right path, O Lord point out the road for me to follow.

5 Lead me by your truth and teach me, for the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.

May the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Tim Smith

Bible Trivia Quiz Part one

2011-01-07T09:07:00.001-08:00

5 Old Testament Factoids:

1. When he was disobeying God. Adam blamed_____?

2. Methuselah lived how many years_____?

3. Mohammed, founder of Islam was from the family line of Ishamel: true or false?

4. Joseph's father, Jacob loved him more than his other sons because Joseph_____?

5. Before Israelites left Egypt, God told them to ask for_____?

Key answer will be posted on blogspot.
1. A woman
2. 969
3. True
4. Was the son of his old age
5. Silver and gold

Encourage all of you to read in book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 10.

Good thoughts about Life! There is something here for every one of us:

The most incredible computer: The HUMAN BRAIN

The worst thing to be without: HOPE

The greatest asset: FAITH

The most satisfying work: SERVING OTHERS

Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Tim Smith

Bible Trivia Quiz Part two

2011-01-07T01:20:00.001-08:00

5 Old Testament Factoids:
6. When a lion attacked Samson after visited the woman he wanted to marry, he_______?
7. Boaz was kind to Ruth because she_______?
8. When Samuel was born to Hannah. She took him to________?
9. Samuel knew that Saul was to be first king of Israel because________?
10. Who is Adonijah, he is ________?

Key answer will be posted on blogspot.
6. killed it with his bare hands
7. had taken good care of Naomi
8. Eli, the priest
9. God had told Samuel in his ear that Saul was the one
10. Solomon's older half-brother

Good thoughts about Life! There is something here for every one of us:
The greatest joy: GIVING
The greatest problem to overcome: FEAR
The greatest natural resource: OUR YOUTH
The greatest "shot in the arm": ENCOURAGEMENT
Let's behave like a Christian. Read in book of Romans, chapter 12, verse 9-21.
Much grace and love in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Tim Smith

Bible Trivia Quiz Part two

2011-01-05T05:05:00.001-08:00

5 Questions about Body Parts:
Encourage you use the scriptures to find a word to fill in the blank from the Bible.

Have fun!

6. The magicians said to Pharaoh, "This is the______ of God!" (Exodus 8:19)

7. I put a jewel on the______. (Ezekiel 16:12)

8. His_______ shine like the sun. (Matthew 17:2)

9. A shepherd who tries to rescue a sheep from a lion's mouth will recover only_______ or ______. (Amos 3:12)

10. The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting_______. (Deuteronomy 33:27)

Good thoughts about Life! There is something here for every one of us:

The most destructive habit: SIN(s)

The most crippling disease: PROCRASTINATE

The ugliest personality trait: SELFISHNESS

The deadliest weapon: The TONGUE

Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.

Tim Smith

January 2 Bible Study Notes

2011-01-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

Announcements:

January 9th: Connection Group leader training (need to rsvp by Wed to tccdeaf's email)
January 16th: Potluck After 2nd Service (e-mail will be sent out for sign up)

Bible Study Slides Below:

Bible Trivia Quiz Part one

2011-01-04T05:20:00.000-08:00

5 Questions about Body Parts:
Encourage you use scriptures to find a word to fill in the blank from the Bible. Have fun!

1. Turn your____ to me; when I call, answer me quickly.
(Psalm 102:2)

2. Keep me as the apple of your______.
(Psalm 17:8)

3. Take heed to the path of your______.
(Proverbs 4:26)

4. True instruction was in his_______.
(Malachi 2:6)

5. Cleanse your _____,
you sinners...
(James 4:8)

Good thoughts about Life! There is something here for every one of us:

The two most powerful words: CAN DO

The most powerful force in life: LOVE

The most beautiful attire: A SMILE!

The most contageous spirit: ENTHUSIASM

The most powerful communication: PRAYER

Much grace and love in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Tim Smith

12 spiritual tips for 2011 and forever. Part two

2010-12-31T22:12:00.000-08:00

7. Learn your spiritual gifts and use them in places of service.
"Each one has received a gift minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."
(1 Peter 4:10)

8. Continually seek opportunities to tell others about Jesus. You voluntereed for service and that means you're on ASSIGNMENT and ACTIVE DUTY!
"Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation."
(2 Corinthians 5:18)

9. Confess your need for Christ's control over your finances.
"No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You can't serve God and mammon(personified as a false god)."
(Luke 16:13)

10. Determine to live within your income. TRUST God as your provider!
"Not that I speak in regard I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am."
(Philippians 4:11)

11. Begin to eliminate all credit debt.
"Owe no one anything
Pay your debts on time." (Romans 13:8)

12. Faithfully tithe to the ministries/or your church and trust God's Word for His provision.
"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 4:19)

Memory verse:
"Call to me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things which you do not know."
Jeremiah 33:3
Tim Smith

12 spiritual tips for 2011 and forever. Part one

2010-12-31T01:32:00.000-08:00

1. Commit yourself fully to Jesus Christ.
"Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation. On You I wait all the day."
(Psalm 25:5)

2. Put your commitment to Christ above all else.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and Hus righteousness and all these things shall be added(provided) to you."
(Matthew 6:33)

3. Put the needs of others ahead of your wants.
"For even the Son of Man didn't come to be served, but to serve and to give His life."
(Mark 10:45)

4. Spend time daily in the Word(meditates) and in prayer(talks).
"Happy is the man delight is in the Lord's instruction and In His law he meditates day and night."
(Psalm 1:1-2)

5. Attend church regularly as a member of the family of God.
"Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and not staying away from worship,fellowship and encouraging each other."
(Hebrews 10:24-25)

6.Become a blessing to your lead servants and workers.
"We urge you brethren to recognize those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. Be at peace among yourselves."
(1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

Memory verse:
"The things which you learned, received, heard and saw in Me, these do and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9
Tim Smith

What Kind of Peace does Jesus give?

2010-12-29T01:05:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
O Lord Jesus, I feel so celebrating now. Knowing I'm on your side, instead of being at war(disobedient) with You. I will never lost and alone again. I pray that I continue to grow spiritually every day. By faith, I know I can trust You and count on You when things get tough(good/bad). Help me ready to help other people as others have already helped me. I want to make a difference in this world. I can't do this alone. I need You!
In Jesus' name. Amen

Key Scriptures:

Peace-Preparation
Peace-Persevere
Peace-Protection
Peace-Prosperity

PREPARATION
"When a man's ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him."
(Proverbs 16:7)

PERSEVERE
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." ( John 16:33)

PROTECTION
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man."
(Psalm 118:8)

PROSPERITY
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth but you shall meditate in it day and night that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
(Joshua 1:8)

In book of Jeremiah, chapter 33, verse 3.
Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things which you do not know. Amen.

Tim Smith

What Kind of Peace does Jesus give?

2010-12-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

"It makes no difference who you're or where you're from if you want God and are ready to do as He say, the door is open."
(Acts 10:35)

Let's pray together!

Dear God,
I have so much joy right now. Knowing that you decided to send Jesus to earth so I could be saved from life of hopeless and sin and be peacemaker for You. I now can live a life of HOPE, FAITH and LOVE. I see so many people who are struggling with stressful, meaningless, chaotic lives without loving and caring relationships. That was my life before You saved me. Thank You Jesus for the peace you have given me. I pray you will use me as an example so I can help my family, friends and the world in which I live. Because of Jesus, I now can live a life of joy, purpose, peace, and love. I love you, Jesus! In Jesus' name. Amen.

Greek word for peace is EIRENE. Harmonious realtionship between God and men, men and men, nations and families. Jesus as Prince of Peace gives peace to those who call upon Him for personal salvation.

Tim Smith

What Kind of Peace does Jesus give?

2010-12-27T03:49:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for loving me. Thank You for saving me. Thank You for giving me a peace. Everything I do reflect these same qualities as you help me sharing with others. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Peace WITH God(spiritual)
In book of Romans, chapter 5, verse 1.
Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Peace OF God (emotional)
In book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 6-7.
6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. Let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Peace WITH each other (relational)
In book of Matthew, chapter 5, verse 9.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall called the children of God.

"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth
peace, goodwill toward men!"
(Luke 2:14)
Tim Smith

Love and Joy Perfected

2010-12-22T10:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for unstoppable loving me. O Lord Jesus, be with me when I practice instant obedience to God and His Word. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Godly living is living in, through, and for Jesus.

GODLINESS includes three elements:
LOVE, OBEDIENCE, and UNITY. We learn to see things as God does and adopt His Word as our only standard.

In book of John, chapter 15, verse 11-12.
11 These things I have spoken to you, that My joy remain in you, and that your joy may be full. 12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

JUDGE spiritual things by spiritual standards
NOT by appearance.

EXALT Jesus in your life and service to draw men to Him.

RECOGNIZE that love obey Jesus and lay down life for others.

COMMIT yourself to the unity of the (ekklesia in greek word) mean an assembly, church(es), and congregation.

PRACTICE Christian citizenship but realize that the world system is often opposed to God's kingdom.

"Imitate me just as I also imitate Christ Jesus."
(1 Corinthians 11:1)
Tim Smith

One Accord: Power of Unity

2010-12-21T19:23:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for sending Your beloved Son and The Bible. He is my mentor and my model. I can be trained by You. Be able to teach Your Word. In Jesus' name. Amen.

CONSIDER others more IMPORTANT than yourself.

In book of Philippians, chapter 2, verse 1-5.
1 Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy. 2 Fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love of one accord, of one mind.
3 Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4 Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.
5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Amen!

DILIGENTLY seek unity with other believers in your THOUGHTS, ATTITUDES, LOVE, SPIRIT, and PURPOSE.

BE concerned about the things that are IMPORTANT to others.

"The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
(Philippians 4:7)

FOLLOW Jesus' example of humility. Be willing to lay down your rights and reputation for the sake of the gospel.

HUMBLE yourself, and serve others as a bondservant of Christ.

Tim Smith

Serving from the heart

2010-12-17T01:32:00.001-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to please and serve You. O Lord Jesus, thank You for the Bible. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Bible say to "serve the Lord with ALL your heart." God wants you to serve Him passionately, NOT dutifully.

In book of Deuteronomy, chapter 11, verse 13.
And it shall be that if you earnestly obey My commandments which I command you today to love the Lord your God and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.

How do you know when you're serving God from your heart?

First sign is ENTHUSIASM. No one has to motivate or challenge, or check up on you. You do it for the sheer enjoyment.
You don't need rewards, or applause or to be paid, because you love serving Him.

Second sign is EFFECTIVENESS. You do what God wired you to love to do, you get good at it. Passion
drives perfection.

When you don't have a heart for what you are doing, you're EASILY discouraged. Don't waste your life in a job that doesn't express your heart.

BE CONFIDENT that God will supply all you need to follow Him fully. Understand that life in Christ is a life of faith. God will show His goodness and greatness.

Figure out what you love to do that which God gave you a heart for and then DO IT for His glory.

"Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure with trouble."
(Proverbs 15:16)

Tim Smith

When serving God, listen to your heart

2010-12-15T05:13:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for Your example of humility and obedience. Father, thank you for Your special plan. O Lord Jesus, help me to be wise for You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

LISTEN, apply your heart, seek wisdom, instruction, knowledge, and understanding.

The Bible says what is in your heart is what you really are. It determines why you say, why you feel, and why you act.

Your heart represents the source of all the motivations. Where did those come from?
Each of us have a unique heartbeat. It's amazing that out of billions of people who have ever lived,
NO ONE has ever had exactly like yours. They came from God!

In book of Proverbs, chapter 2, verse 5-6.
5 You will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God.
6 For the Lord gives wisdom, from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.

These reveal the nature of your heart, listen for that can be point to the ministry God plan for you to have.

FEAR the Lord by rejecting evil, pride, and arrogance.

FEAR the Lord and leads to the life and satisfaction.

God is also loving, awesome, righteous, all-powerful and sovereign over all things. Walk in the fear of the Lord will bring great blessing to your life.

"As in water face reflects face, So a man's heart reveals the man." (Proverbs 27:19)

Tim Smith

Dec 12th Bible Study Notes

2010-12-14T19:05:00.000-08:00

http://cybersarges.tripod.com/foldedflg.html

**Summary: Tim Smith led bible class on discussion of the American Flag and how it is folded during a funeral. Each fold has a meaning which Tim discussed and elaborated on. To review, you can link on the website above.

Verses To Read:

Ephesians 4: 4-6 matches the 6th fold of the flag

Psalm 23 matches the 8th fold

Announcements:

Next week is the Lord's Supper and we will have a guest speaker. Love offerings will be accepted to support the guest speaker's missionary trip.
TCC is closed December 26th-there will be no services that day.

Spiritual gifts for serving God

2010-12-14T01:17:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for the gifts that you generously divided out to us. O Lord Jesus, help us to understand your determines which gift each person should have. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Your spiritual gifts were not given for your own benefits but for others. This is why God wants us to discover and develop our spiritual gifts.

Keep in mind, your gifts reveal one part of God's will for your ministry. He uses to shape you for service.

In book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 12, verse 4-6
4 There are diversities of gifts but the same Spirit.
5 There are differences of ministries but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of activities but it is the same God who works all in all.

Whenever we forget these basic truths about gifts, always cause trouble in the church/ministries.

Common problem is that "gift-envy" and "gift-projection."
It is often occured when we compare our gifts to others, feeling not satisfy with what God gave us, become resentful or jealous of how God uses others.

WITHOUT this rootedness in the Word. It will be separated me from our basic growth in the knowledge of God's word in the Bible.

Such "ROOTEDNESS" is in truth and love, not merely in learning knowledge or accomplished study. We must spend in the Word and resist ourselves from the hindrance of lovelessness, competitiveness, and strife.

"My love be with you all in Christ Jesus" (1 Corinthians 16:24)

Tim Smith

Ministry: Shaped to serve

2010-12-13T01:49:00.001-08:00

Dear God the Father,
Thank You for making me so wonderfully complex!! Your workmanship in me are so amazing!
In Jesus' name. Amen.

Before God created you. Each of us was unique shaped to do certain things. He decided what role he wanted you to play on earth. He planned exactly how he wanted you to serve Him. You are the way you are because you were made for a specific ministry.

In book of Ephesians, chapter 2, verse 10.
For we are His poiema(greek word for workmanship) created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

We're God's hand-crafted work of art.
We're a custom designed one-of-a kind and masterpiece!

Not only did God shape you before your birth. He shaped and planned every day of your life to support process of His plan.

God never wastes anything. He would not give you abilities, interests, talents, gifts, personality and life experiences unless He intended to use them for His glory.

In book of 2 Timothy, chapter 2, verse 15.
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

God uses all of it mold you for your ministry to others and shape you for your service to Him. Amen.

Tim Smith

Scripture Treasures

2010-12-10T09:01:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for giving us the epistles in the
Bible that we can follow, obey and listen. In Jesus' name. Amen.

THE CHURCH:
"They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers."
Acts 2:42

THE BIBLE:
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path."
Psalm 119:105

GUIDANCE:
"The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way."
Psalm 25:9

OUR TONGUES:
"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."
Colossians 4:6

WITNESS:
"Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."
1 Peter 3:15

May the grace and peace of Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Tim Smith

Scripture Treasures

2010-12-09T04:49:00.001-08:00

PRAYER:
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach. It will be give to him."
James 1:5

GOD'S FORGIVENESS:
"He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy."
Proverbs 28:13

FORGIVING OTHERS:
"Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do."
Luke 23:34

LOVE:
"With all lowliness and gentleness with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Ephesians 4:2-3

DISCIPLINE:
"Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word. I know, O Lord that Your judgements are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.
Psalm 119:67,75

Cherish the moments after reading and meditating on this scriptures. Encourage all of you to learn so as to remember.
Amen.

Tim Smith

Dec 5 Bible study notes

2010-12-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

What is the Right Direction?
What direction are you going in now? The Bible will tell you what direction.

You know Jesus died on the cross. The cross can represent faith, hope and love on the "branches".

Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:13 Faith, hope and Love, the greatest is love.

Visualize this: On Earth, God is trying to reach his children, regardless of age. He made us all humans. Imagine Jesus died on the cross. Why did he die? For the pardon of our sins: breaking God's law; we became separate and God wanted to reconcile so God himself became human (Jesus). Jesus is God and Man. He became flesh. Jesus name is also Immaunel (God with us). He walked with humans for 33yrs. He died on the cross and bled. He went down to hell and rasied from the dead for us so that we can be forgiven.
We are given =3 things to help us preserve. It must be in balance on the scale. For example: u have so much hope but no faith and then you crash. You became upset, angry and curse God. But if no hope but so much faith but nothing happens- people complain. We incorrectly balance. But maybe we have hope and faith but no love. But if you have no love, you still lack.You will struggle within your spirit and it will show in your personaity: the way you act and talk. People will see that.

Look at Jesus: He stayed on the cross with composure. He had love. He held on to love for everyone: believer and non-believers. It is hard to match Jesus's love.

With Hope and faith, we can love like Christ. Now on Earth, everyone needs all 3: faith, hope and love. When the world ends, Jesus will come. Jesus will not come to seek for your hope and faith; he will see your heart if there is love.

The goal as a Christian sis to arrive home: that is our Hope. The faith is that we keep faithful in Christ and God, we know we have eternal life. When Jesus appears, Hope and faith is gone. Because we have achieved that, we have arrived to heaven. We have held on to the lampstand, and we now have Love- Eternal Love in the kingdon. We must practice hope faith and love on earth and go through trials but we must keep love. If we do not have love, we have nothing.

What takes you away from hope, faith and love? SIN

Sin comes from Satan and comes in many forms. Following the verses below, the class discussed how Satan uses sin to keep us as weak vessels.

SATAN: Names of Satan and verses where you can find them
Lucifer: Luke 4: 5-8
Accuser Revelation 12:10
Roaring Lion 1 Peter 5:8 (adversary)
Angel (Light) 2 Corinthians 11:14
Liar (father of lies) John 8:44
Tempter 1 Thessalonians 3:5
Devourer Revelation 20:10
Ruler of This World John 12:31
Prince of Power of Air Ephesians 2:2

The Devil knows our weaknesses and our flaws; he will use them to destroy us. But the good news is that God will never let Satan do more to us than what we can bear.
Word Study:
Abaddon (hebrew word): destroyer
Apollyn (greek word): Destroyer

Both names represents "Place of Death"
Regardless of Satan's effort to destroy throughout the OT and NT, he has already lost. How? Because Jesus Christ raised from the dead.

Additional Reading:

James 2:19
Galatians 6

Announcements:

Deaf Bible study classroom must be empty by 10:45am to allow the children's class set up.

We will have a special guest speaker: a missionary married couple.

Scripture Treasures

2010-12-08T05:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thanks for Your loving and comforting for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

PRAYER:
"Call to me, I will answer you, show you
great and mighty things, which you do not know."
Jeremiah 33:3

OBEDIENCE:
"But why do you call Me "Lord, Lord" and do not do the things which I say?"
Luke 6:46

DISCIPLESHIP:
"By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples."
John 15:8

ASSURANCE:
"In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace."
Ephesians 1:7

GUIDANCE:
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct you paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6

I have been praying, meditating, communicating, asking, supporting and feeling for you and another.

THANK YOU!
Tim Smith

Take a Step in the Right Direction

2010-12-03T02:17:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Please allow me to be assured by Your loving in me. O Lord Jesus, thank You for your faith in me. Father, thank You for reminding me that I have hope in me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

OBEDIENCE is the key..
("Firm to the End")

In book of Matthew, chapter 10, verse 22.
And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.

In book of Mark, chapter 13, verse 13.
And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved.

In book of Revelation, chapter 2, verse 10.
Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.

In book of Revelation, chapter 3, verse 11.
Behold, I am coming quickly! Holdfast what you have, that no one may take your crown.

While individual relationship with Jesus will always be VITAL.

We have ONE head, who is Christ, and One body, the Church.

Renew your commitment to the body of born-again believers. Seek to build up the church through your WORDS, ACTIONS, and PARTICIPATION.

DO NOTHING that will tear down the body, but build on the foundation of Christ Jesus.

SEEK and UTILIZE to use your spiritual gifts to build up the church and glorify Jesus.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Tim Smith

Take a Step in the Right Direction

2010-12-02T01:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Let's halal the name of the Lord Jesus. Keep me stay away from a wicked people. I want my prayers not be hindered. Help me be one of mind, having compassion for another, love as brothers, courteous, and tender-hearted. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Importance of Baptism:

In book of 1 Peter, chapter 3, verse 21.
There is also an antitype which now saves us baptism(not the removal of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In book of John, chapter 3, verse 5.
Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you. Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, OR he cannot enter the kingdom of God."

UNDERSTAND that the Holy Spirit makes you holy. Set apart by the blood of Jesus. Obedience is to be our responsible.

UNDERSTAND that the goal of your faith is Salvation.

UNDERSTAND that when you are insulted, despised and let the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

In book of Titus, chapter 3, verse 6.
Whom He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
Tim Smith

Take a Step in the Right Direction

2010-12-01T01:10:00.000-08:00

Dear Lord,
Thank You for being with me entire time when I need you. You are so amazing. Help me understand your plan for the ministry.
In Jesus' name. Amen.

PRACTICE patient, persistent, and persevering prayer.

BELIEVE follow Jesus, knowing that He is the Way to Salvation.

TRUST that Jesus will give you the wisdom and words when you are facing the opposition of the gospel.

In book of Mark, chapter 16, verse 15-16.

15 Jesus said to them, Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creatiure.
16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved but who does not believe will be condemned.

BOLDLY confess Jesus before others.

BELIEVE He will acknowledge you before the Father.

In greek word, SOZO means SAVED. It is rescue from danger or destruction.
Sozo saves from physical death by healing and from spiritual death by forgiving sin. It is translated "to give new life" and "to cause to have a new heart".
Tim Smith

Take a Step in the Right Direction

2010-11-30T02:56:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Your name is so praiseworthy! Guide me to the people who needs You the most.
In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of 1 Timothy, chapter 1,verse 14-15
14 And grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 15 This is faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners whom I am chief.

We need to be washed and cleansed through the blood of Jesus Christ to remove our sins. We need to confess that we are sinners to be saved by the faith in Him.

As a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. You also need to be baptized and proclaimed as a obedient servant.

Thank You the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself a ransom for all to be testified in due time.

Our Good Confession:
"You, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.
1 Timothy 6:11
Tim Smith

Take a Step in the Right Direction

2010-11-29T01:53:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
May I ask You to bless all born-again believers as each of you journey through life with Him! In Jesus' name. Amen.

We are walking and placing our faith in loving and knowing the TRUTH from the Bible.

It's from God's Grace.

In book of 2 Thessalonians, chapter 2,verse 13-14
13 We are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. 14 Which He called you by our gospel for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

BE discerning, understanding that Satan can imitate signs and wonders.
Through the Holy Spirit and the truth of the Scripture, you will able to recognize the true works done for the glory of God.

STAND faithfully, holding firmly to the truth of God's Word, the Bible.

Please Pray!

PRAY for leaders, that God would use them powerfully and effectively to preach the gospel.

PRAY for their protection and the protection of their families from those who oppose their faith in Jesus Christ.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Tim Smith

Always Thankful!!

2010-11-26T05:51:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for answering my prayers. Help me to always accept Your answers. Guide me as I serve You today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 4-5.
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand.

Yesterday we celebrated a day of Thanksgiving. But no matter where you live in the country, it is good for you to thank God for what He has given to you.

GIVING thanks should be an important part of our prayers every day.

What are you thankful for today? The food you have to eat? The place where you live? Families and friends? God's love and salvation through blood of the Christ? Don't forget to take time to spend with Him and talk to God. Thank Him for His blessings.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Tim Smith

Giving Thanks!!

2010-11-25T06:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for people
who help me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

When I became a follower of Jesus. I spent the rest of my life praying, learning and teaching other people about Jesus.

I was thankful that God had helped me. I was also thankful for other Christians who encouraged and supported my ministry.

In book of Philippians, chapter 1, verse 3-4.
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 4 always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.

I thanked God for the way these Christians had blessed me when they shared God's kindness with me.

There are Christians that I know who help, support and encourage me. I want to tell you that I appreciate it and cherish it. Thank God for these brothers and sisters in Christ.

Have a joyful day on thanksgiving day!

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Tim Smith

Giving Thanks!!

2010-11-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for prayer. I want to share my life with You. Thank You for all the wonderful things You do for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Colossians, chapter 2, verse 6-7.
6 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. 7 Rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.

God listens to us when we pray. Sometime we don't know the right words or signs to communicate to God. But He understands us and pay attention to our needs and our requests. Jesus thanked God for hearing Him. We, too, should thank God for paying attention to us when we pray,ask, and seek His guidance.

God always knows what is the best for you. Pray and thank Him for loving you and helping you serve Him.

In book of Jude 2.
Mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you.
Tim Smith

Giving Thanks!!

2010-11-22T06:12:00.000-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for all the blessings You have given me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Thanksgiving to the Lord for His great works of deliverance.

In book of Psalm, chapter 107,verse 1-2
1 Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. 2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.

The people were called Pilgrims came to America in December of 1620. Sailed across the Atlantic Ocean. They could be free to worship God. They faced a difficult and hard times with cold weather and starvation. After first successful harvest with helping from Indians. The Pilgrims gave THANKS to God for helping them survive. Today, we still remember the Pilgrims and celebrate a special day of giving thanks to God, the Father.

In book of Psalm, chapter 107,verse 22.
Let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, And declare His works with rejoicing.

What can you thank God for today?
Tim Smith

November 21, 2010 Bible Study Notes

2010-11-21T19:47:00.000-08:00

november 21 bible study notes

prayer requests:
ts:sick
tm: sick
al: health

announccement:
dec 4: pink ladies tea party from 9:30 - 12:30; donations needed for party supplies
contact susie kornkven for details

Focus Today on : THANKS

Adoration: psalm 63:3
- give unlimited praise and thanks
- plenty to be thankful for
- thanksgiving happens once a year? NOPE every day 365 days a year
- this "lovingkindness" is eternal
- ADORE GOD, give ADORATION to GOD

Confession: 1 john 1:9
- resolve any differences between yourself and others; confess first to God for forgiveness then forgive that person
- confess to God; once to do, you will feel light
- God brings peace and harmony
- celebrate your thanksgiving in peace with your family and friends

Thanksgiving: 1 Thesssalonians 5:18
- develop your character
- stop blaming others; stop saying "you you" and take responsibility
- encourage to mend relationships so your relationship with God will stay strong

Supplication: Philipians 4:6
- be specific who and what you pray for
- when you pray, God will touch those that you pray for
- do this everyday

ACTS: act!, JUST DO IT!
Do it and your thanksgiving will be good; children, relatives, husband/wife and friends will feel good and have a good time.

Activity:divide in groups
- introduce each other
- TASK ONE: Give thanks for who God is: 1 Chronicles 16:8
-tell about what God did!
- TASK TWO: Give thanks to God for daily provision, answer to prayer and for others: 2 Corinthians 1:11
-our prayers for others does help others's prayers be answered

Lords supper: Read 1 Cor 11:23-24

November 14 Bible Study Notes

2010-11-21T18:57:00.000-08:00

Post Options

Reason for Giving?

2010-11-19T05:49:00.000-08:00

The Bible says there are lot of reasons to give and be generous. BUT one thing God never do is pressure us OR guilt us into giving.

God doesn't want your money, He wants your HEART. He wants YOU to decide when and how YOU will give.

How do YOU decide?
YOU can give by reason or by revelation.

*Giving by REASON just means that give based on what you can afford. God doesn't BLESS that kind of giving.

*Giving by REVELATION means taking a big step of faith. It is asking, God, I want to depend on You, not myself." Ask God a question and let Him give you a guidance. What do you want me to give? Will you stretch my faith and help me trust you more?

It is out of your comfort level. This is the kind of giving that PLEASES God. Amen.

Read in book of 2 Corinthians, chapter 9, verse 5-15.

Tim Smith

Precepts and Principles

2010-11-19T02:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
O Lord Jesus, be with everyone whoever ask Your name of the Lord Jesus. Lord, lead me to a person, who need you right now.
In Jesus' name. Amen.

There are several PRECEPTS and PRINCIPLES in the Bible that should guide our values.

In book of Colossians, chapter 3, verse 15-17.
15 Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body and be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalm, hymns and spiritual songs, signing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. 17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

CONTINUALLY live a life worthy of the Lord

BE productive in doing good, and grow in your understanding of God.

BE strengthened with
power from the might of His glory, enduring pateintly with JOY!

LET the peace of Christ control your thoughts and emotions. Be grateful!

LET'S put on LOVE. From the core of your being, be tender, merciful, humble, patient, and forgiving in all relationships.
Tim Smith

Precepts and Principles

2010-11-18T01:37:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank you for giving Your instructions and guiding us Your example. In Jesus' name. Amen.

There are several PRECEPTS in the Bible that should guide our values.

Apostle Paul's words:

*In book of 2 Timothy, chapter 3, verse 2-9

*In book of Romans, chapter 1,verse 28-32

There are several PRINCIPLES in the Bible that should guide our values. The Lord and others(non-christians) in the world are watching us.

Hindrances (barriers) to our spiritual progress.

UNDERSTAND that suffering is part of the Christian life. Study Jesus' response to suffering and follow His example.

UNDERSTAND that when you are insulted and despised, the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

UNDERSTAND that pride will cause God to resist you, so repent and turn from it. Knowing that God will give you grace. Give God your anxieties.

Tim Smith

People

2010-11-17T02:03:00.000-08:00

Dear Lord,
Help us continually sharpen our sense and ability to discern good and evil. Remind us to obeyed what we were taught. Do this with fear and respect for God. He gives you the power to do.
In Jesus' name. Amen

We may also learn from PEOPLE in the Bible. There are people in the Bible who behaved that TRULY pleased the Lord were:

*Abraham Genesis 12
*Abel Genesis 4
*Moses Exodus 2-40
*Paul Acts 9,11, 13-28

Also people in the Bible who behaved that did NOT please the Lord were. Failed to obey God:

*Cain Genesis 4
*Ananias and Saphire Acts 5

True spiritual values means thinking, believing and behaving in ways that are pleasing to God.
Our spiritual valus should follow Jesus Christ's way of thinking.

In book of 1 Corinthians,chapter 2,
verse, 4-5.
4 My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power. 5 that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. Amen.

SEEK to build up the church through your words, actions and participation.

In book of John, chapter 8, verse 12.
Jesus spoke to them again, saying "I am the light of the world. He follow Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.
Tim Smith

Precepts and Principles

2010-11-16T02:06:00.001-08:00

There are several PRECEPTS in the Bible that should guide our values.

*Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in book of Matthew, chapter 5-7.

*In book of Galatians, chapter 5,verse 19-21

There are several PRINCIPLES in the Bible that should guide our values. The Lord and others(especially non-christians)in the world are watching us.

Our bodies as temples of God.

GLORIFY God in your body and your spirit. Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. DO NOT give yourself to immorality or sin of any kind.

*In book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 3
verse 16-17.
16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy you. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.

*In book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 6
verse, 19-20.

Greet one another with a kiss of love, Peace to you all who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Tim Smith

Precepts and Principles

2010-11-15T01:27:00.001-08:00

There are several PRECEPTS in the Bible that should guide our values.

*Ten commandments in Exodus 20

*In book of Mark, chapter 12,verse 28-32.

There are several PRINCIPLES in the Bible that should guide our values. The Lord and others(especially non-christian) in the world are watching us.
CONSIDERING the following will help us evaluate our behavior.

The ASSURANCE of our hearts.

SPEAK with your mouth and BELIEVE in your heart that Jesus is the risen Lord. You will be saved. BELIEVE and PREACH the Word of God.
FAITH comes through hearing, and SALVATION comes through faith.

In book of Romans, chapter 14, verse 22-23.
22 Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves.
23 But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith. For whatever he is not from faith is sin.

Dear God,
Thank You for guiding me in your own example of a Christlike life. Therefore I have reason to glory in Christ Jesus things which pertain to You.
I will dare to proclaim the truth through His Word and deed. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tim Smith

Keys to Wise Living!

2010-11-10T02:19:00.001-08:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the Word of encouragement.
O Lord Jesus, help me to identify the difference of teachings, prophets, doctrines. Prepare me to see the opportunity to share Your Word today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

GIVE your love for Jesus first place in your life.

Jesus calls us to have an absolute devotion.

Jesus calls His people to faithfulness and patient endurance. Never give up!

Jesus calls His people to be fully separated from the demonic power and be free from the controlling influence of sin.

In book of Ephesians, chapter 5, verse 6-7.
6 Let no one deceive you with empty words,for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.

AVOID lukewarmness, stir up your zeal for the Lord.

RECOGNIZE that worldly assets have no spiritual or heavenly value.

DO NOT value worldly success. DO NOT trust worldly wealth.

DO NOT adopt the world's way of thinking or standard of behavior.

REPENT quickly whenever the Holy Spirit conscience and convicts you of sin.

DEVELOP your spiritual. Listen to what the Spirit plan to say to you and the church. When force to make choice, Obey God not people!

UNDERSTAND that one may be so rich in the Spirit but very poor in the world's eyes. Be faithful, reach and receive the crown of life.

TRUST God for understanding when you read the Bible.

In book of Galatians, chapter 6,verse 17-18
17 From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.
18 Brethen, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Tim Smith

Keys to Godly relationships

2010-11-09T02:59:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for everything you have done in my life. O Jesus Lord, teach us to learn about
Forgiveness and Prayer! In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Mark, chapter 11,verse 24-26.
24 Therefore I say to you whatever you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them and you will have them. 25 And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26 But if you do not forgive, neither will your father forgive your trespasses.

Jesus' teaching is how to build and maintain right relationships with God. He will produce within us the qualities of character that multiply through our Spiritual life.

PRACTICE instant reconciliation, understand that conflicts cause much greater damage to relationships when left unresolved.

UNDERSTAND that God forgives us our sins as we forgive others who have sinned against us.

ADOPT the forgiveness of others into your prayer life as a daily discipline.

In bool of Ephesians, chapter 1, verse 3.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. Amen.
Tim Smith

Steps to Faithful Obedience!

2010-11-08T02:29:00.001-08:00

Dear God,
Thank You for your loving and forgiving.
O Lord Jesus, help us walk as devoted christians. Lord, show us how to be obedient to His commands. In Jesus' name. Amen.

You might wonder why we should become a Christian at all and simple answer is: So that you WILL NOT be defeated by your temptations that satan plot to separate YOU from God.

As a Christian you will find the help you need to become the kind of person God wants you to be.

YOU WILL RECEIVE HELP:
From the Bible. God has given everything we need.

From the Holy Spirit. God is with you, wanting to work through you. He will make you strong.

From fellow christians
Your new brothers and sisters in Christ will help you grow.

From worship and service. The more you praise God and serve others in His name, the fuller and richer you will find your life becoming.

Be patient with yourself. God has begun to do His conversion job on you. Be faithful to Him
He will carry you through every difficult times.

In book of Matthew, chapter 6,verse 22-23
22 The lamp of the body is the eye. If your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

REMEMBER that your words and actions flow out of your love relationship with Jesus Christ.

NEVER undervalue obedience.

DETERMINE to obey God's Word.

Obeying the Father was supremely important to Jesus. Obedience is the response of faith to any instruction from God.
Tim Smith

Nov 7 Announcements

2010-11-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

* November 14: Baptism at TCC
-Sign up at TCC Booth or contact tccdeaf@gmail.com for more information.

*November 20: Pastor Ordination for Tim Smith at 1pm at TCC
- Let's celebrate together. After the ordination, we will have a potluck.
- Please contact tccdeaf@gmail.com to sign up for food to bring.

Activities/Events for the Public:

Every 1st and 3rd Saturday:
- Mens Bible Study from about 10 to 11 at Jason's Deli Southpark Meadow; for details: contact Tim Smith
- Women's Bible Study on Purpose Driven Life (after Men's Bible Study at the same location); for details, contact Susie Kornkven

December Tea Party: December 4th from 9:30 to 12:30 at Jesus Lutheran Deaf Church
- for women only
- contact Susie Kornkven for more information

Deaf/Hearing Mentor Program

2010-11-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

The purpose of this is to get to know each other a little better. Hopefully we can meet some new people and some of us can learn a few signs in the process. This isn’t meant to be time intensive, just an opportunity to help make communicating with each other a little less overwhelming.

Introductory sign language class (for hearing people) - Saturday, December 4th at 3 pm OR December 5th after 2nd service

Mixer – Sunday, December 12th after 2nd service

2 months – meet with your partner for 5 minutes (or more – smile). Terri will send out a question each week to give you a topic to talk about (weather, favorite activity, etc).

Wrap-up mixer – February 6th after 2nd service

If you have any questions, are interested in becoming a mentor or helping out, contact Terri at terri@theconnectionchurch.org

Nov 7 Bible Study Notes

2010-11-07T19:08:00.000-08:00

*Pictures have been deleted due to copyright issues*

Dynamic Disciples!

2010-11-03T01:34:00.000-07:00

The most effective method of discipling another individual is meeting one-on-one.
We can share heart-to-heart, answer questions, pray over problems, check progress.

INVEST in other lives:
Any born-again believers who has a Bible and can read, can help someone else. Ask yourself a question. Are you willing to give time to pray for others, to prepare a lesson, and to spend time with an individual or a small group?

START with one:
There could be a new Christian in the church who needs a "shepherd" who will pray with the person, take him/her to church and involve him/her in a Bible study group. We will soon find opportunity ministry.

STAY with one:
Our prayers begin to pay off when someone TRUSTS Jesus Christ through our efforts. As a good spiritual leader, we can help in the feeding, protecting, training. We can give individual time when it is impossible for the pastor who shepherds such a large flock to do so. As a good shepherd, we can establish the new Christian in the faith and the church.

SPIRITUAL UNITY is at the very heart of the Christian faith and the life of Christ's church.

In book of Ephesians, chapter 4, verse 3-6.
3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one spirit just as you were called in one hope of your calling;
5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in you all.

As we grow, mature, and reproduce in Christ, we can be the answer to that prayer.

Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

Tim Smith

Dynamic Disciples!

2010-11-02T02:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
We agreed to pray for each other daily. To make our prayers more specific.
To encourage us making Bible study, Scripture memory, the quiet time, witnessing, and discipling others, habits in our lives. O Lord Jesus, let the power of the Holy Spirit be with you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

To characterize our lives and ministry is how our goal was to be godly, Spirit-filled, witnessing, and reproducers.

Godliness, Psalm 12:1
"Help, Lord for the godly man cease! For the faithful disappear from the sons of men."

Spirit-filled, Ephesians 5:16-18
16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which dissipation but filled with the Spirit.

Witnessing, Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth."

BELIEVE that the power of God comes only by the Holy Spirit.

EXPECT your Spirit-filled relationship with Jesus to help you speak boldly, with courage and spiritual understanding.

Reproducers,
2 Timothy 2:1-3
1 You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these faithful men who will be able to teach others. 3 You
therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

Jesus promises us. In book of John, chapter 14,verse 15-16, 26
15 If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father and He will give you another Helper that He may abide with you forever. 26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, bring to your rememberance all things that I said to you. Amen.

Tim Smith

Dynamic Disciples!

2010-11-01T02:06:00.000-07:00

By definition, a disciple is a "learner."
To abiding in His Word, and living by His Word.

Becoming a disciple is a learner and follower of Jesus. Amen!

Jesus, our Master Teacher: To train and equip disciples.

Let us walk as devoted disciples being faithful to Him and obedient to His commands.

We must make a habit of giving generously to the Lord and practice spending time daily in devotion to Jesus Christ.

I LEARN TO DO BY DOING. PRAY!
READ IT!
STUDY IT!
MEMORIZE IT!

In book of Matthew, chapter 28, verse 19-20.
19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you. I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

RECOGNIZE that Jesus calls His disciples to have a responisble TIME of praying, sharing, and giving.

Dear God,
Help us to prepare, to understand, to be trained and equipped through your Word from the Bible. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tim Smith

Oct 31, 2010 Bible Study Notes

2010-10-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

Verses To Read (were discussed during bible study)

Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
Romans 12:21
1 John 1:9
Jeremiah 29:11

**Videos and pictures are not posted due to copyright permissions-apologizes**

Oct 31, 2010 Announcements

2010-10-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

November 3rd First Wednesday Service with Lord's Supper at 7pm (Interpreter to be confirmed)
November 7th Lords Supper during Deaf Bible Study at 9:30am
November 7th Connection 101 12:30 at TCC- email tccdeaf@gmail.com to RSVP
November 14th- Baptism- email tccdeaf@gmail.com for information on how to sign up
November 20th Pastor Ordination for Tim Smith at TCC at 1pm; Potluck After

Applying the Scriptures

2010-10-29T02:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Almighty God,
Thank You, Our Father in heaven.
Everyone, please look in book of Matthew 6:5-15. Using this as your prayer right now.
O Lord Jesus, blessed be to each of you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

As Christians are like these trees planted along a riverbank. God is unending source of energy, power and divine moisture. His Word supplies all nutrients for healthy growth. We MUST give God's Word a prominent place in out lives.

Mature and equipped for service:

As we study and apply God's Word. He leads us to purity, honesty, humility, holiness of life and victory over the world, the flesh and the devil. In progress, we mature and become equipped for every branch of service.

In book of Ephesians, chapter 4,verse 11-13
11 He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists and some pastors and teachers. 12 for the equipping(katartismos) of the saints for the work of ministry, for edifying of the body of Christ. 13 till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God to a perfect man, to the measure of the fullness of Christ.

The primary of meaning of KATARTISMOS is
"A making fit, preparing, training, perfecting, making fully qualified for service."

In book of Philippians, chapter 4,verse 6-7,9
6 Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 9 The things which you LEARNED, RECEIVED, HEARD, and SAW in me, these do and the God of peace will be with you

Tim Smith

Applying the scriptures

2010-10-28T01:35:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Thank You for being available when I need You. Let Your mercy,
O Lord Jesus be upon me just as I hope in You. Lord, help me to remain be faithful to walk in His ways. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Instruction in righteousness:

Not only God will censor our behavior and give us a new direction for our lives. He promises to be our instructor. He will advise you and watch your progress.

No matter where I go, I never go by myself.
I have GJHS (God, Jesus, and Holy Spirit)

In book of Psalm, chapter 32, verse 8.
I will instruct you and yarah(teach) you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.

The primary of meaning of yarah is "to shoot straight" or "to direct the flow"

This passage promises GROWTH, PRODUCTIVITY, and MATURITY through application of the Word of God.

In book of Romans, chapter 3,verse 24-25
24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood through faith to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God has passed over the sins that were previosuly committed.

May the glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works for the Lord Jesus. Amen.
Tim Smith

Applying the scriptures

2010-10-27T05:22:00.000-07:00

Dear God the Father,
Give thanks to the Lord for He is good! O Lord Jesus, before ask anything from You. Lord, please help us to be able to "discern" the difference between the two. There are are "flesh people" who tear us down and there are "faith people" who build us up and help us unlocking the potential. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Joshua, chapter 1, verse 8.
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, shall meditate in it day and night that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have good success."

Correction in the direction of our lives:

Study the Bible, God will guide and give us a new perspective for living. Begin to see the value of living according His plan and purposes. God speaks through his Word the positive aspects of correcting, censoring, and rebuking. We need to turned (repent) from our sin toward a whole new lifestyle of pleasing God.

The life of OBEDIENCE brings about many additional benefits.
Psalm 119 lists a number of results that comes from hearing and obeying the Word.

ASK yourself a question: What is God asking us to do?
God wants his people to enjoy a productive, fulfilling, victorioius and holy Christian life.

Tim Smith

Applying the Scriptures

2010-10-26T02:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,

I don't want to keep any secrets from You. Please forgive my sins. Guide me as I serve You today. God, please protect people who are serving You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Hebrews, chapter 4,verse 11 and 13
11 Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest and, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.

Rebuke from the scripture:

The Holy Spirit use the scripture to point out any behavior that displeasing to God. Whether it's company we keep, cheating, lying, immoral acts, or any other disobedience. Through the conviction and conscience of the Word. God shapes our lives to the image of Jesus Christ.

UNDERSTAND that knowing the truth of God's Word is made possible by the Holy Spirit.

KNOW that God sees all of the things that we do.

WALKING away from the path of evil.

WALKING in the way of righteous, your path will be clear.

WALKING in the fear of the Lord will bring great blessing to you life. Amen.

Tim Smith

Applying the Scriptures

2010-10-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

Dear God our Father,

Thank You for sending and showing Your letter in the Bible. The Bible is filled with promises and blessings as we can study and apply to our lives. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Hebrews, chapter 4, verse 12.
"For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even the division of soul and spirit and of joint and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the hearts."

A solid foundation in the basic doctrines of the Bible:

We need to have clear understanding of what the Bible teaches about the salvation, the Holy Spirit, baptism, sanctification, and Second Coming.

BE CAREFUL with what we believe that may be affects our behavior and the course of our lives.

In book of 2 Timothy, chapter 3,verse 16-17
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteous. 17 that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

The Christian life can be an exciting adventure as you live day by day in the power of the Holy Spirit. God has many wonderful things in store for you as you walk in obedience to His Word and live for His glory.

Grace to you and Peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Tim Smith

Oct 24 Bible Study Notes

2010-10-24T19:04:00.000-07:00

Top 10 Prepare, Popular and Power Verses!!

2010-10-22T02:41:00.000-07:00

Pray and Memorize this:

In book of Psalm, chapter 119, verse 11 and 105.
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart that I might not sin against You. 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

1 "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal. John 3:16

2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1

3 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6

4 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. Matthew 28:19

5 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Romans 3:23

6 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8

7 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1

8 All Scriptures is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteous.
2 Timothy 3:16

9 That if you confess with you mouth, "Jesus is Lord" and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Romans 10:9

10 You shall love the Lord you God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second is You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.
Mark 12:30-31
Tim Smith

Pathway to Heaven!

2010-10-21T03:05:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Teach me to persevere and to be like You. O Lord Jesus, help me build our families, friends, and a foundation in our everyday living on You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

ASK God to give you life-changing understanding the truth. ALLOW it to dynamically change the way of your relationship with God. STUDY the life of Jesus to see the power and authority God has given you.

"Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid."
(Proverbs 12:1)

UNDERSTAND God's principle of giving. MAKE God's priorities your priorities. GIVE Him the firsts of your time, talent, and treasure. DO NOT live by the world system, which tells you to look out for yourself first.

ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God.(Romans 3:23) A sinner needs to acknowledge that he has sinned.

BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved, you and your household.(Acts 16:31)

CONFESS your sins. We only need to tell Jesus that we have sinned and ask for His forgiveness. He will forgive us, no matter what the sin is.
(1 John 1:9)

Let the life of Jesus be manifested in your body.

May be the grace of Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Tim Smith

The People's Obedience!

2010-10-20T02:54:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
I want to grow and learn more about You. Lord, help me to spend time with You today. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Haggai, chapter 1,verse 13-14
13 Then Haggai, the LORD's messenger spoke the LORD's message to the people, saying"I am with you, says the LORD." 14 So the LORD stirred up the spirit of all the remnant of the people and they came and worked on the house of the LORD of hosts, their God.

PRAY and ask the Lord to stir up your spirit so that you will obey Him.

RECOGNIZE that it is the Holy Spirit who gives us the ability and desire to do all that God asks of us. He changes us into the image of Jesus.

ASK God to fill His church with such visible glory that the nations of the Earth will come to Jesus.

HEAR God's word to us today. As born-again believers, we are the temple of the Holy Spirit.(1 Corinthians 6:19-20) God wants to display His glory through His people, the church.

COMMIT to the Lord to be a person in whom His glory can dwell and through whom His glory can be made manifest.

Tim Smith

October 10 Bible Study Notes

2010-10-19T10:35:00.000-07:00

Let All Peoples Praise the Lord!!

2010-10-19T02:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your being so faith in me. Please help me walk in Your ways and honor You with your wealth and blessing. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Psalm, chapter 117,verse 1-2
1 Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! 2 For His merciful kindness is great toward us. And the truth of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!

ASK God to strengthen you against the temptation to compromise and to teach you godly principles.

ASK God the honest questions of your heart. After you open, honest, and heart to heart relationship with God makes our devotion dynamic.

Do not allow the ungodly practices of those around you to influence you. Set you heart on the Lord, and look to Him alone for your answers.

In book of Psalm, chapter 118,verse 8.
8 It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

SEEK the Lord. SEEK His righteous, and SEEK humility. In Jesus, you will be hidden and delivered from God's wrath and judgment against sin.
Understand that it is the holiness of Jesus that makes you holy. Walk in His ways and honor Him. Amen!
Tim Smith

Bible wisdom!!

2010-10-15T02:01:00.000-07:00

The book of Proverbs is full of all sorts of wisdom.

Be PRUDENT in order to be PURE and PREPARE.

Ten gems from the Book of Proverbs:
1 Gossip:
"A gossip separates close friends."
Proverbs 16:28

2 Correction: "Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid."
Proverbs 12:1

3 Wisdom:
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy Spirit is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10

4 Temper:
"A fool vents all his feelings, but a wise man holds them back."
Proverbs 29:11

5 Adultery:
"Whoever commits adultery with a woman or man lacks understanding, destroys his/her own soul."
Proverbs 6:32

6 Learning from ants:
"Go to the ants, you sluggard! Consider her/his ways and be wise."
Proverbs 6:6

7 A kind word:
"Anxiety in the heart of man/woman causes depression, but a good word makes it glad."
Proverbs 12:25

8 Prayer:
"The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous."
Proverbs 15:29

9 These six things the Lord hates:
Read in book of Proverbs, chapter 6, verse 16-19.

10 Not speaking:
"Where there is no counsel, the people fall, But in the multiitudes of counselors there is safety."
Proverbs 11:14

Dear Lord, the Father
Thank You for all of my Christian friends. They are a real and encouragement to me. Prompt me to build those relationships where I may be a servant for you. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Tim Smith

The Way of Wisdom!!

2010-10-13T02:49:00.000-07:00

Wisdom brings life, blessing, honor, and the favor of God. Amen!

LISTEN, apply your heart, cry out for, seek, and search for wisdom, knowledge and understanding. They come from the Lord.

In book of Matthew, chapter 7, verse 7.
ASK and it will be given to you. SEEK, and you will be find. KNOCK, and it will be opened to you.

REFRAIN from incessant talking, it will get you into trouble. Let the things
you say be nourishing and encouraging to others.
"The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous."
(Proverbs 15:29)

WALK in the fear of the Lord. It is the beginning of wisdom.
"The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility."
(Proverbs 15:33)

DILIGENTLY seek God's wisdom daily, for with wisdom comes life, blessing, favor from the Lord, wealth, joy, peace,and other benefits.

Tim Smith

Meditate on These Things(Whatever)

2010-10-12T01:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for allow me being as Jesus' disciples, help me have the opportunity to lay down my rights and reputations. Prepare me to give my life in service to others for the sake of the gospel and the glory of God. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Greeting every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren who are with me greet you.

In book of Philippians, chapter 4, verse 8-9.
8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever are of EUPHEMISTIC, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things. 9 The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me, these do and the God of peace will be with you.

EUPHEMOS- A combination of Eu-"well", and pheme,"a saying".

"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24)

RECOGNIZE that wholehearted, focused pursuit of Jesus is a mark of mature Christianity and devotion.

LEARN to control your thought life. Practice focusing your thoughts on things that are pure, lovely, virtuous, and worthy.

Blessing with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Tim Smith

Be Generous and Do Good!!

2010-10-11T02:54:00.000-07:00

Let the life of Jesus Christ cover you as clothing. Let Christ live freely through you.

Walk in the freedom that Christ purchased. Do not submit to legalist rules regardless of how right arguments in favor may seem.

In book of Galatians, chapter 6, verse, 6-9.
6 Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teachs.
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
8 For he who sows to he flesh will reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will everlasting life.
9 Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Be free from the controlling influence of sin.

"From now on let no one trouble me, for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus. Brethren the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit." Amen.
(Galatians 6:17-18)

Tim Smith

October 3 Bible Study Notes

2010-10-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Christ predicts the birth of the church.

Prophesied in Matthew 16: 18-19

Fulfilled in Acts 2

All Christians with spiritual gifts to carry on God's mission and purpose through Body of believers known today as the church.

You will know God's mission and purpose when you find it through Jesus Christ.

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Map (picture temporarily unavailable)

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When is a Church Not a Church?
Revelation 2:1-7

•That is, when is an earthly church not part of God’s true church?
•Let me ask another question: Why did God create the church? What was His purpose?
•Before answering that, let me back up one more step:
•Why did God create man? He tells us in Isaiah 43:6-7:
“Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made."

**************************************************

•A couple of chapters later, Paul concludes the first half of his letter to Ephesus by asking for this to happen:

"To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."Ephesians 3:21 (emphasis added).

•God created the church for His glory.

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•Revelation 2:1-7: In this letter, Jesus tells the Ephesians church that they are in danger. They are about to lose their status as a church.

•How WE OURSELVES need to hear it –so that in the years ahead we do not run into this danger.

•So open your ears. Listen carefully. Hear what the Spirit says to the churches. And then let us heed what is written here, so that we might receive the promised
blessings.

•To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: 'The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands.
•2 "'I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false.
•3 I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name's sake, and you have not grown weary.

•4 But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.
•5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.

•6 Yet this you have: you hate the works of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
•7 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.'

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•What was the nature of their fight? They seem to be under attack doctrinally. In Acts 20, Paul had told warned the Ephesian elders:
•29I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock;30and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them.31Therefore be alert. (Acts 20:29-31)
•So Paul told them some of their elders would become false teachers. Evidently they had taken this warning to heart. A problem had occurred, but they had handled this serious problem well. They tested the teaching of these elders against Scripture, and had successfully fought for the truth, disciplining the false
teachers.

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•Do you see how the Israelites’ lack of love leads to wrong actions? Lack of love for God means that their priority is put on something else, something that in comparison is worthless. When they do that, they diminish the glory of God. When they do that, they are saying –by their actions if not by their words –that God is worth less.
•13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no
water. (Jeremiah 2:13)
•The first evil they commit is abandoning or forsaking God. This is the same word image used in Revelation 2:4, which literally reads, “You have forsaken your first love.”

•But do you see how this first evil leads to the second? When you forsake God as your first love, you always attempt to find joy, pleasure, and protection elsewhere. So they did their own cisterns.
•A cistern is a tank or hole in the ground lined with cement, used for storing water. In Palestine in most years there is no rain for about 5 months. Thus, there is a huge need for water storage.

********************************

•So we’ve seen that when we abandon our first love, we necessarily pursue joy elsewhere. Lack of love for God leads to wrong actions.

•So the problem in Ephesus is that they did not endure in what is most important:
•They endured in doctrine. That’s important.
•They endured in church discipline. That’s important.
•They endured in hard work. That’s important.
•But they did not endure in LOVE!

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A church . . .

•·can love its building more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love its traditions more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love its worship songs more than it loves Jesus;
•· can love its history more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love the fellowship of believers more than it loves
Jesus;
•·can love its programs more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love evangelism more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love missions more than it loves Jesus;
•·can love the lost more than it loves Jesus;

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•Do you see the difference between doing missions when you love Christ and doing missions when you love missions?
•Missionaries will go out;
•Missionaries will raise support;
•Missionaries will sacrifice comfort and ease;
•Missionaries will help people;
•Missionaries may even speak words of the Gospel
message.

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•But the goals of the two enterprises are completely different. One exalts an institution –the church. The other exalts God.
•Institutions change so that they care more about their own survival than about the purpose for which they were created.
•This is such a danger!
•When that institution is the church, then the church abandons its first love.

This is what Jesus threatens in verse 5: He will remove the lampstand from the church in Ephesus. The lampstand pictures the Holy Spirit within the church. It also pictures the light of the Gospel going out from the church. Without the lampstand, the light is no
longer shining. Darkness prevails.

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He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the

paradise of God. Revelation 2:7
•Jesus makes this promise to “the one who overcomes” or “the one who conquers.” What needs to be conquered? The temptation to abandon your first love! The temptation to love other things more than Jesus!
•This promise is for eternity. But the promise begins now, as we hold onto Jesus as our first love, delighting in Him above all else. We can have this eternal life of knowing Him even now.
•This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus, whom you have sent. John 17:3

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So (where , what, who, which) are you?

•A member who needs to live this out more effectively?

•A believer who needs to commit to a local church?

• Or perhaps you don’t love Jesus at all?

•Jesus invites YOU to eat of the tree of life. To know Him. To delight in Him. To value Him above all else.

•You too can be used by God as His weapon, His tool, and be part of the true church.

******************************************

•So do you see the picture? God is supplying all their needs: He is the fountain, overflowing with water. But they have abandoned their first love.

•They have abandoned His fountain. This leads to action. When their delight is not in God.

•They seek joy, delight, and satisfaction elsewhere.

•Lack of love for God leads to wrong actions.

•So repent. Turn away from broken cisterns that hold no water. See God as the source of living water. And know that He is your first love.

Read Matthew 22: 37-40

The Spirit Within You!!

2010-10-08T02:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for being so great and faithful! Help me to be wise for You. I want to show my friends and family how they can live close to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

In book of Galatians, chapter 4, verse 6.
Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His son into your hearts.

Jesus Christ's ascension:
Christ arose and now He lives! He sent the Holy Spirit so that all born-again believers might live under His control.

The indwelling Holy Spirit:
In book of John, chapter 16, verse 13-14.
13 When He, spirit of the truth has come. He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own authority but whatever He hears He will speak and He will tell you things to come. 14 He will glorify Me. He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.

MINISTER in the power of the Holy Spirit.

BELIEVE that the power of God comes only by the Holy Spirit.

EXPECT your spirit-filled relationship with Jesus to help you speak boldly with courage.

Jesus Christ promised after He ascended. He would prepare a place for born-again believers.

Jesus Christ also promised to send the Holy Spirit to live in every born-again believers after He ascended.

The Holy Spirit gives us power to lead an obedient, christ-centered life.
Tim Smith

The Person of Jesus Christ!!

2010-10-07T02:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Father,
Thank You for sending Jesus to earth to live as a human. I want to share the Good News about Jesus with others today. In His name. Amen.

Jesus Christ is the perfect image of God. As a God, He has authority over the earth.

Jesus was human too. Many of his experiences were similar to those you have today. He
suffered and was tempted. He never yielded, allow him to understand when you are fail, He forgives as you confess your sins to him.
(1 John 1:9)

In order to begin understanding Jesus Christ, it is necessary to explore his DEITY and his HUMANITY.

DEITY: the divine character God, supreme being.

In book of Hebrews, chapter 1, verse 8-12.

Jesus is the Creator
Jesus is unchangeable
Jesus is righteous
Jesus is eternal

HUMANITY: the quality of being human, spiritual part of Creation.

In book of Hebrews, chapter 2,verse 14-18

Understand that Jesus has destroyed the power of death and released you from the satanic bondage of the fear of the death. In faith, take hold of freedom. Be strengthened and comforted, knowing that He is able to help you.
Tim Smith

God Cares For You!!

2010-10-06T02:53:00.000-07:00

Dear God
Help us to follow Your guidance in the Bible. Thank You for making us so important people in Your plan. In Jesus' name. Amen.

You are a special person. You are special because of God. God says you are valuable to Him. He genuinely cares about you and what happens to you.

God created you.
In book of Genesis, chapter 1,verse 26-28
26"God said, Let Us make man in our image, according to Our likeness."
27"So God created man in His own image, He created him, male and female.
28"God blessed them and He said to them, Be fruitful and multiply."

God knows you.
In book of Matthew, chapter 10, verse 30.
30"The very hairs of your head are all numbered."

God loves you.
In book of 1 John, chapter 4, verse 9-10.
9"In the love of God that God has sent His only begotten son into the world that we might live through Him."
10"In this is love, not that we love God but He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation(sacrificial) for our sins."

God made you part of His family.
It is important for you as a Christian to be assured that God is your Father and you have eternal life. This assurance must
depend on the word of God(Bible).

You may want to memorize verse which helps. Three verse are
John 5:24
1 John 5:11-13
Revelation 3:20-21
Tim Smith

Not By Bread Alone!!

2010-10-05T02:33:00.001-07:00

Billions of the world's people go through life spiritually undernourished.

Dear Father,
Thank You for your spiritual hugs today. Lord, halal the Lord for the Bible. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Satan tempts Jesus

Book of Matthew,
chapter 4, verse 4
But Jesus answered and said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God."

ESTABLISH your personal study of the scriptures.

EXAMINE the great truths of the Bible.

LEARN and PRACTICE!

Be sure to pray before you begin. Ask the Lord for understanding as you study these topics.

Book of Luke, chapter 24, verse 45
"And He opened their understanding that they might comprehend the Scriptures."

All you need to begin is a Bible. Each question will direct you to a passage of Scripture. After thinking about the passage, write the answer in your own words.

The Holy Spirit gives us power to lead an obedient, Christ-centered life. Amen.

Tim Smith

God, Our Father

2010-10-04T03:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Father,
I am so glad that I am Your child. Thank You for Your loving and comforting and faith in me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Romans 8:14-16
14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.
15 For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, Abba, Father.
16 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.

RECEIVE God's righteous through faith in Jesus. Understand that none of us is able to meet God's standard of perfection. That is why Jesus paid in full the penalty of sin.

RECEIVE Jesus as Lord and Savior. Let grace reign in your life through godly living.

RECEIVE the Spirit of adoption that makes God your Abba, Father.

RECEIVE the witness of the Holy Spirit that you are His child.

Through Jesus, we have received abundant grace and the gift of righteousness. He grants us the freedom to live and grow in godliness, Love, humility, and unity to motivate godly living.

Expect your spirit-filled relationship with Jesus to help you speak boldly, with courage and spiritual understanding. Amen.

Tim Smith

God, Our Protector

2010-10-01T03:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for protect me each day. O Lord, halal God for His protection, instruction and teach me in the way I should go. O Jesus, You paved the pathways. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Psalm 33:20-22
20 Our soul waits for the Lord, he is our heart and our shield.
21 For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in Holy name.
22 Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, just as we hope in You.

EXPECT that Jesus, your Shepherd, will care for you. REST and knowing that He will REFRESH you, WALK with you, COMFORT you, NOURISH you and PROTECT you. Amen.

DEVOTE and KNOW God's Word, it will guide your steps and show you the path on which you are to walk.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me because He counted me faithful and putting me into the ministry.

"Grace of our Lord was abundant with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus."
(1 Timothy 1:14)
Tim Smith

God, Our Safety

2010-09-30T03:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord,
You are a safe place in my life. You give true peace to people who depend on you, to people who trust you.
Thank You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

WHEN I realize that I need a place of safety right away. When problems happen in my life. I pray and say O Lord Jesus, O Lord God because in the Lord I have a place of safety forever!

"Trust in the Lord forever, For in the Lord is everlasting strength."
(Isaiah 26:4)

WORSHIP God in His holiness. Invite the conviction of the Holy Spirit, confess your sin before God and receive His forgiveness and cleansing. Now ask God to use you.

WALK on God's "Highway of Holiness"
There you will find safety, restoration, and joy.

GUARD against the scheme of the enemy, who slanders the character and integrity of God, His leaders, and His people.

RECOGNIZE that the enemy will try to intimidate you and undermine your faith in God. Do not allow yourself to believe him. REJECT satanic lies.

The last two verses in the chapter of Revelation.
20 He who testifies to these things says Surely I am coming quickly! Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
21 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
Tim Smith

God, Our Rest

2010-09-29T02:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the rest You give me when I am tired and weak. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Maybe today you feel tired and weak. Please PRAY!

ASK Him earnestly to refresh you with new life and fresh power of the Spirit today.

ASK the Lord to teach you and give you discernment that will enable you to walk in His ways and honor Him through your actions. Teach others how to walk in His holiness.

ASK for invitation and receive a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit to touch every desperate place in you. Let the power of God transform you, restore you completely, and flow from you to those around you.

Look at verses in book of Ezekiel 34:
11 God, the True Shepherd indeed Himself will search for My sheep and seek them out.
15 I will feed My flock and I will make them lie down.
16 I will seek what was lost and bring back what was driven away, bind up the broken and strength what was sick but I will destroy the fat and the strong and feed them in judgement.
17 O My flock, Behold
I shall judge between sheep and sheep, between rams and goats.

Tim Smith

God, Our Comfort

2010-09-28T02:45:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Thank You for leading me through this day. Thank You for being my comforter in the past, present and future. In Jesus' name. Amen.

I don't know what problems I will face today. But I do know that God will be with me, and He will be my comforter. God will do the same for you too.
Amen.

ALLOW the Lord to comfort you. Though you may feel as if God has forsaken or forgotten you, have confidence that you are continuously on His mind.

If you or a loved one has walked away from God or feel broken or needy, know that the Lord desires deeply to restore you relationship with Himself. Receive these verses as promises for you today, inviting you into the loving arms of Jesus.

TAKE comfort, knowing that God, in Christ, has come to us with forgiveness and tender mercy.

WAIT on the Lord and put your hope in Jesus ask him to comfort and touch you at your point of need.

"Sing, O heaven! Be joyful, O earth! And break out in singing, O mountains! For the Lord has comforted His people. And all will have mercy on His afflicted."
(Isaiah 49:13)
Tim Smith

September 26, 2010 Bible Study Notes

2010-09-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

God, Our Hope

2010-09-27T03:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord God,
You are truly my hope. Thank You for providing for me every day. In Jesus' name. Amen.

KNOW that God can give you hope when circumstances indicate there is none.

REMEMBER that He has promised to be present with you both day and night.

SET your heart and hope on the Lord, every time you feel so hurt and hopeless.

Psalm 71
1 In You, O Lord, I put my trust. 2 Deliver me in Your righteousness
Incline Your ear to me and save me. 3 Be my strong refuge. You have given the commandment to save me. You are my rock and my fortress. 4 Deliver me, O my God out of the hand of the wicked. 5 For You are my hope, O Lord GOD, You are my trust from my youth.

Tim Smith

"Jesus is Lord"

2010-09-24T03:55:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Thank You for the blessings I receive because I am connected to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Let the peace of Christ control your thoughts and emotions. Be grateful.

Let faith rise in you as you see the greatness of who Jesus is.

"Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth."
(Colossians 3:2)

FOCUS your thoughts and attention on things that are important to God.
UNDERSTAND when Jesus died, your sinful nature died too. Your life is now hidden with Christ in God.

BELIEVE in Jesus, the reconciler of all things. Through His blood. He made peace so we are no longer separated from God. Amen.

BELIEVE in Jesus, the exact representation of the invisible God. When we see Jesus, we see God. Amen.

BELIEVE in Jesus, whom we have life and forgiveness and through whom all demonic powers have been defeated. Amen.

"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."
(Philippians 4:23)
Tim Smith

Best Advice!

2010-09-23T02:51:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Please give me wisdom so I can make the right decisions. In Jesus' name. Amen.

When you need advice, who do you ask? Be careful! Getting advice from a trusted friend and family members or pastor may be a good idea. BUT it's sometimes dangerous. People are limited in their ABILITIES, WISDOM, and KNOWLEDGE.

"Great is our Lord, and His mighty in power, His understanding is INFINITE."
(Psalm 147:5)

Be sure to get some advice from God too.
Pray and read God's advice in His Word from the Bible.

"Our hearts may be encouraged in love and riches of full assurance of understanding to the knowledge of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."
(Colossians 2:2-3)

STUDY, THINK, MEMORIZE, BELIEVE, and LIVE the Word of God so that it becomes part of who you are. LET the Word inhabit in your conversation with others. DEVOTE yourself to Jesus and to knowing God's Word.
Tim Smith

Saying of Jesus!! Part two

2010-09-22T02:50:00.000-07:00

"Jesus taught as one having authority and not as the scribes."
(Matthew 7:29)

In Greek words:
MAKARIOS- supremely blessed

ELEOS- merciful (active compassion)

KATHAROS- without blemish, undefiled
(Physical cleanliness)

Greatest sermon ever preached on the Mount.

In the chapter 5 in book of Matthew.
The beatitudes:
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for rightousness' sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.
12 Rejoice and be glad for great is your reward in heaven, For so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

EMPLOY "The Lord's Prayer" often as an outline for personal worship, intercession, petition, warfare, and praise.

ALWAYS pray in an honest and sincere manner.

FORSAKE any display of religion that is done for men's approval.

Tim Smith

Saying of Jesus!!

2010-09-21T03:19:00.000-07:00

"Jesus taught as one having authority and not as the scribes." (Matthew 7:29)

In Greek words:
MAKARIOS- supremely blessed

ELEOS- merciful,
(active compassion)

KATHAROS- without blemish, undefiled
(Physical cleanliness)

Greatest sermon ever preached on the Mount.

In the chapter 5 in book of Matthew.
The beatitudes:
2 He opened His mouth and taught them saying;
3 Blessed are the poor in the spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heavens.
4 Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth.

RECOGNIZE that your life has either a positive or negative effect.
LIVE responsibly to bring glory of God. Be LOYAL to God.
FORSAKE any ambition that compromises your commitment to God.

Tim Smith

Let All Things Praise the Lord!!

2010-09-20T02:54:00.000-07:00

In Hebrew word for praise is halal.

In book of Psalm 150:

Halal the Lord!
Halal God in His sanctuary, Halal Him in His mighty.
Halal Him for His mighty acts. Halal Him according His excellent greatness! Halal Him with the sound of trumpet. Halal Him with the lute and harp! Halal Him with timbrel and dance. Halal Him with stringed instruments and flutes! Halal Him with loud cymbals. Halal Him with clashing cymbals!

Let everything that has breath halal the Lord. Halal the Lord!

Let's show our expressive halal, innovative music and joyful singing(signing) are all dynamic elements of vibrant and fulfilling devotional life with God.

May the grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord be with you.
Tim Smith

September 19, 2010 Bible Study Notes

2010-09-19T15:52:00.000-07:00

Next Sunday: Forgiveness and Passion

We have homework! Read, pray, and fill out the Character Traits worksheet that was given out!

Where can I find?

2010-09-17T03:07:00.000-07:00

It is always helpful to be able to lay your hand on well-known passages from the Bible.

LOVE is...

Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.
It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with truth.
It always PROTECTS, always TRUSTS, always HOPES,
always PERSEVERES.
Love never fails... And now these three remain FAITH, HOPE and LOVE. But the greatest of these is LOVE.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13)
Tim Smith

God wants to give You freedom!!

2010-09-16T03:10:00.000-07:00

I can do anything I want to do, say anything I want to say, without anybody telling me to do. The world says you can have your freedom but only being totally SELFISH and FOOL.

Jesus said, "you shall know the truth and truth shall makes you free." (John 8:32)

Real FREEDOM is freedom from fear where you're truly free from guilt, from worry, from bitterness, and from death.

The Bible says the only way to true freedom is through Jesus: "If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed."
(John 8:36)

How do you get rid of those kinds of fears? by confessing, believing and letting God love you! "There is no fear in love but perfect love casts out fear."
(1 John 4:18)

When you realize how much God loves you, you'll begin to live in TRUE freedom. It's an act of freedom to agree that He is a loving, caring, generous God.
Tim Smith

Guest Speaker for Bible Study on Sept 12

2010-09-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

Are You Identified as “Lukewarm”?
Presented Through the Scriptural Views

What do You Mean by “Lukewarm”?
According to Revelation 3: 15 – 22 (KJV), the church of the Laodiceans are described as “lukewarm”.
15I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. 16So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. 17Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 18I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 20Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. 21To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. 22He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

Brief Outlook on the Characteristics of Seven Churches Mentioned in the Book of Revelation
Ephesus
Smyma
Pergamos
Thyatira
Sardis
Philadelphia
Laodicea (Probably the last church age)
Identified as Apostasy mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2:3?

Signs of Being “Lukewarm”
Trust in money & materialism over God.
Matthew 6:24 (KJV) says “ No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one , and despite the other. You cannot serve God and mammon”.
Are you lacking your disciple responsibilities as a Christian?
Lack of time in your personal relationship with God through prayer and mediation on Word of God (bible).
Not doing the will of the Father in heaven for the Kingdom of God.
Not aware of the wolves in sheep clothing. You must test EVERY spirit whether they are of God or not.
False prophets/teachers and their false doctrines. No add/subtract to the Scripture. Also, read 1 Timothy 4:1-2 and 2 Timothy 4:3-4.
Continuity in sin
2 Corinthians 13:5 (KJV) says “Examine yourself, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except you be reprobates?”
John 14:15 says “If ye love me, keep my commandments”.

What Can You Do?

Read Deuteronomy 6:5 that says “And thou shalt love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might”.
Mediate diligently with Word of God.
Mark 12:31 (KJV) “And the second [is] like, [namely] this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these”.
Be mindful of Matthew 24:12 that says, “And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.”
Lev. 19:2 "Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy."
Be aware of Ephesians 6:12 that says, “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.
Test every spirit.

Any questions?

From slide #3:
1 Timothy 4:1-2, Paul says, “1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron”.
2 Timothy 4:3-4, Paul says, “3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables”.

Time for action!!

2010-09-15T03:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord,
Teach me patience, to wait when I must make any important decision, to wait until I sense the clear word of direction from Your wisdom. In Jesus' name. Amen.

You would not reached this far in this book if you did not believe that the Bible is for helping us to grow up spiritually.

LET strengthen your devotional life by reading and studying the Bible until it become part of who you are, part of the way you think, talk, and act.

LET moral excellence be the mark of your life, add knowing God, self-control, endurance, and love, which will help your life to be meaningful and productive as you grow in your knowledge of Jesus.

LET you receive by faith the great and precious promises given to you in Jesus Christ, whose very nature has become part of who you are.

"The best proof that the Bible is the word of God is that warms and lights my soul." C.H. Spurgeon

Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-14T03:04:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Thank You for the power of prayer and allowing me to see Your will fulfilled in the lives of others. Thank You for sending your son Jesus Christ. Please lead me to people who need to be introduced to You. Lord, I rest in Your presence, trust in Your power, and embrace Your peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 7
Spoken to God the Father
"When Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said," Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit." He breathed his last.
(Luke 23:46)

ACKNOWLEDGE that only God has power over death and hell.

PRACTICE patient, persistent, persevering, and prayer

"For this reason, He is the Mediator for the new covenant by means of death for the redemption of transgressions. Those who are called may receive the promise of the eternal inheritance."
(Hebrews 9:15)
Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-11T06:15:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Let me smell the full of aroma out of you in your presence.
Thank You for your loving and willingness. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 6
A cry of triumph
"He said, It is finished and bowing His head, He gave up His spirit."
John 19:30

It is indication that the work of redemption has been completed once for all. Lord's return will be actual, personal, and visible.

God's power is so ABSOLUTE,
AMAZING,
ASPIRATIONAL

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end," says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."
(Revelation 1:8)
Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-11T05:44:00.001-07:00

Dear Lord,
Thanks for everything you have done for me and my life. Thank You for your comfort and love me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 5
An exclamation
"I am thirsty."
(John 19:28)

To the very last, Jesus'
earthly life demonstrated the priority He placed on LOVE and concern in RELATIONSHIP.

"Behold, He is coming with clouds and every eye will see him, even they who pierced Him. All the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him."
(Revelation 1:7)
Tim Smith

Connection 301 Class

2010-09-09T14:00:00.000-07:00

When: September 19, Sunday

Time: 12:30 to 3:30

Where: At The Connection Church

Who: Brian Geiger will lead it.

What is 301 About? (From TCC website)

God didn’t design church ministry for a select few with seminary degrees. The Connection Church, every member is a minister. That’s what CONNECTION 301 is all about. It’s an exciting, fast-paced two hours session, designed to help you discover your SHAPE for ministry.

Your SHAPE is a one-of-a-kind combination of your Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality and Experiences.

During CONNECTION 301, you’ll complete a SHAPE Profile, which is a detailed Discovery tool that helps reveal how God wants to use someone with your SHAPE to minister to others in need.

Next, you’ll be encouraged to schedule a follow-up SHAPE Discovery Session to talk one-on-one with a Ministry Leader about your SHAPE Profile. Your Ministry Leader will help connect you with a ministry where God can use you to make a lasting impact.

“Your hands formed and SHAPED me…” Job 10:8a (GN)

PLEASE RSVP by E-MAILING TCCDEAF@GMAIL.COM or sign up on http://theconnectionchurch.org/classes/301-your-shape

Financial Peace University

2010-09-09T13:54:00.001-07:00

MSG from Terri:
I just wanted to send out a reminder that Financial Peace University will be this Friday. The introduction/orientation will be held this Friday, Sept 10th 6-8 pm. Cost of the workshop, childcare, what the workshop will be discussing - all of that will be covered. The official start will be Sept 17th and run through December.

Keep in mind that we have tried to organize this for 2 years with sign language interpreters. The guy running it, Joe Barnes, promised that the next one he ran, would have interpreters (even told another group we couldn't have it on Thursday nights as some deaf members had a conflict that night!).

If you could please let me know if you are interested. We want to make sure we plan for more than one interpreter if there is a big group.

Send email to tccdeaf@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-09T01:47:00.000-07:00

Dear God the Father,
It's against you that I have sinned. Worse yet, I've ignore it. I repent of this sin. I want you to take it away. Wash me in the blood of your Son that I may once again be the son you'd have me to be. Lead me in the path of righteousness. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 4
Spoken to God the Father
"And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried out with a loud voice saying "Eli, Eli lama sabachthani?" that is "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?"
(Matthew 27:46)

The blood of Christ was shed for all people. The acceptance of this blood is three-fold:
1) CONFESSION begins by step out of denial to acknowledge my sin.
2) REPENTANCE continues the process by turning from the sin to be cleansed and purified.
3) FORGIVENESS is God's personal assurance of His love for us in Christ.

He's the God of second chances!

"Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ"
(Philippians 1:2)
Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-08T03:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord,
Sometimes witnessing for you can cost a lot, there can be a great risk. I need from you the courage to respond in obedience. Please give me the strength to step out in faith for your sake. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 3
Spoken to Mary and John
"When Jesus saw His mother and the disciple whom he loved standing by, He said to His mother, Woman behold your son! Then he said to disciple, behold your mother! From time on disciple took her to his own home."
(John 19:26-27)

OBEYING Jesus is evidence that we love Him and are His disciples. OBEDIENCE
Is vital to holy living. The Holy Spirit teaches us and gives us understand of the Scriptures, enabling us to OBEY the Lord.

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom."
(James 3:13)
Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-07T03:05:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Please give me wisdom as I make decisions today. I want to show my friends and family how they can live close to You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 2
Spoken to the dying thief who was crucified next to Jesus.

When Jesus was on the cross. Two men who are criminals were hanged on the cross. One man blasphemed Jesus but the other answering rebuked him saying this Man has done nothing wrong. Then he said to Jesus, 'Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.'

Jesus said to him, "Assuredly, I say to you today you will be with Me in Paradise."
(Luke 23:43)

ACKNOWLEDGE worry as sin. DISCIPLINE yourself to turn from any anxiety, and CHOOSE to trust the Lord Jesus Christ.

That is the choice he has made when he asked Jesus to remember him.
Tim Smith

Jesus' seven 'words' from the cross

2010-09-06T03:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Lord,
Thank You for teaching us that the most ordinary people, young, and old are used by You to bring the needs of other people to You.
In Jesus' name. Amen.

Jesus said seven things on the cross:

'WORD' 1
Spoken to God the Father, as Jesus was nailed to the cross

"Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing."
(Luke 23:34)

The people who practices in their life with iniquities are literally wickedness and rebellion.
Jesus suffered not for Himself but for mankind's SINS and SICKNESSES.

"All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned, every one, to his own way. And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all."(Isaiah 53:6)
Tim Smith

September 5th Bible Study Notes

2010-09-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Conduct of the Gospel

A. Proclaim it: Matthew 4:23-25

B. Defend it: Jude 24-25

C. Demonstrate it: Philippians 1:27

D. Share it: Philippians 1:5-6

E. Suffer for it: 2 Timothy 1:8

F. Don't hinder it: 1 Corinthians 9:12

G. Be not ashamed: Romans 1:16

H. Preach it: 1 Corinthians 9:16

I. Guard it: Galatians 1:6-8

Key verses to read:
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 27:11
Matthew 28:16-20

The Lord the Shepherd of His People!

2010-09-03T03:04:00.000-07:00

Dear God,
Help me to understand that my troubles here on earth will only continue for a short time. Father, even though I have problems I still praise You. Thank You for answering my prayers. Please prepare me to always accept Your answers. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Psalm 23:5-6
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me. All the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord, Forever.

Psalm 23:1-6 reflects absolute trust and peaceful confidence in God. It is divided into two metaphors the shepherd (v.1-4) and the host (v.5-6).

STUDY the works of God. ENJOY the Bible and delight in it. GREAT blessing is promised to those who do.

Make PRAISE a daily part of your devotional life's habit. Let it be JOYOUS, RELEVANT and STRONG.

"For the law was given through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ."(John 1:17)

Tim Smith