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Cornerstone Fellowship Church
“Now to Him who is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to His power that is at work within us,
to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus
throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
Ephesians 3:20-‐21
June 2016
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Cornerstone Fellowship Church Introduction
This is my sincere attempt to document the unusual (and I believe, supernatural) process God has taken me through over the last year. The process has culminated in a vision for us as believers and a vision for Cornerstone as a church! As of June 1st, the formulation of the vision is complete! It is now time to do it!
God could have chosen older/younger, stronger/weaker, richer/poorer, smarter/less smart people, to accomplish what He desires; but I am convinced that He has chosen us! He has chosen us here! He has chosen us now to do a great work with Him/for Him!
God is always looking for people, for churches:
on whom He can pour out His Spirit, through whom He can display His Glory,
with whom He can impact a lost and dying world!
“These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit,
and who tremble at my word.” Isaiah 66:2
Perhaps if we can claim anything, it may be this: by God’s Spirit, we are becoming a humble, contrite people, and by His grace, we have a healthy appreciation of – we tremble at – His Word!
I earnestly believe that God has chosen to do a NEW THING here at Cornerstone – which is actually an old thing:
He wants us to become a 21st Century Version of the 1st Century Church in the book of Acts. And He wants you and me to become 21st Century versions of the believers we read about in the 1st Century Church!
Back then, the church “shook bridges”, changed lives, impacted 10’s of thousands, and literally turned their world upside down!
“These who have turned the world upside down have come here too!” Acts 17:6 NKJV
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The 1st century church produced witnesses (those who would live for Christ), and martyrs (those who would die for Christ). Interestingly enough, in the original language of the Bible, the word for witness is marturia, from which we get our English word martyr!
God can do it, desires to do it, again! God is eternally the same! Jesus Christ never changes! We have in us the same Holy Spirit who resided in Peter, James, John, Stephen, Phillip and the rest of the common, ordinary men and women we read about in Acts! In addition to what they had, we have literally millions of copies of the Bible as the inspired Word of God to direct our steps and encourage our hearts!
Can WE believe God for a NEW THING? Can we believe that something good can come out of Central, Louisiana?
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.
Isaiah 43:18-‐19
Praise God! As most of you know, on April 20, 2016, God turned my world upside down. He came into my quiet time on an ordinary day of my life, and He gave me a 3-‐fold promise from the Word of God:
1. He will yield to our plea -‐ He will hear our prayer – and He will increase our numbers like sheep (Ezekiel 36:37-‐38) 2. From the next chapter, Ezekiel 37, He promised that He would pour out His Spirit in such a way that dead, very dry bones would come to life, be joined together, and stand up on their feet – a vast army! (Ezekiel 37:1-‐10) 3. Then from Numbers, chapter 7 -‐ the Daily Bread reading for that day -‐ He impressed me that He had entrusted to me a very holy thing, and that I was to carry it carefully, because I was now responsible for it! (Numbers 7:9)
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Oh, how my walk with the Lord has changed since then! To varying degrees, many of you have seen the difference! God has placed a new fire, new vision, new boldness in my heart! I see something in a new way that I have never seen before! And praise God! By His Grace, I am willing to go for it with everything I am and everything I have!
But God does not intend for me to go on this journey alone! We can go together!
“If you want to go fast – go alone! “If you want to go far – go together!”
I want to go far with you!!!
As of now, I recognize 5 steps in the process:
1. Get the vision firmly in my heart! 2. Write the vision down! 3. Share it with the Church! 4. Train the troops!! 5. Mobilize the Army!
I think that some of us will be JUMP-‐IN-‐ERS, some will be WAIT-‐AND-‐SEE-‐ERS, and some will be NEED-‐TIME-‐TO-‐GET-‐ON-‐BOARD-‐ERS. We can leave that up to the Spirit! I simply encourage you to be open to the stirring of the Spirit of God in your heart during these days! (Read Haggai 1:1-‐15 for encouragement) This document is my invitation to you to go with me and the leadership of Cornerstone so we can go far! We can “shake bridges”! We can have a great impact on our world! We can – in the power of His Spirit – turn our world upside down just as they did in Acts 1-‐16! (Read Acts for encouragement)
“I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap
on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one!”
(Ezekiel 22:30)
IF NOT US – WHO? IF NOT HERE – WHERE? IF NOT NOW – WHEN?
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1. THE VISION!!!
CORNERSTONE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH will become a
21st century version of the 1st century Church in Acts!
CORNERSTONE BELIEVERS
will become 21st century versions of 1st Century Believers!
2 Then the Lord replied: “Write down the vision
and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.
3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false.
Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.
Habakkuk 2:2-‐3
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2. THE PROMISE!!!
ON APRIL 20, 2016, GOD GAVE ME A 3-‐FOLD PROMISE:
1. A Promise to hear our prayer and to increase our numbers! 37 “This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Once again I will yield to Israel’s plea and do this for them: I will make their people as numerous as sheep, 38 as numerous as the flocks for offerings at Jerusalem during her appointed festivals. Ezekiel 36:37-‐38
2. A Promise to raise up a vast army! 1The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. 2 He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. 3 He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.” 4 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! 5 This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath[a] enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’” 7 So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. 8 I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them. 9 Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come, breath, from the four winds and breathe into these slain, that they may live.’” 10 So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army. Ezekiel 37:1-‐10
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3. A promise to entrust into our hands a very precious holy thing! 4 “This is the work of the Kohathites at the tent of meeting: the care of the most holy things. Numbers 4:4 15 “After Aaron and his sons have finished covering the holy furnishings and all the holy articles, and when the camp is ready to move, only then are the Kohathites to come and do the carrying. But they must not touch the holy things or they will die. The Kohathites are to carry those things that are in the tent of meeting. Numbers 4:15 20 But the Kohathites must not go in to look at the holy things, even for a moment, or they will die.” Numbers 4:20 9 But Moses did not give any to the Kohathites, because they were to carry on their shoulders the holy things, for which they were responsible. Numbers 7:9
God will hear our prayer – yield to our plea! God will increase our people as numerous as sheep!
God will raise up a vast army! We have been given a Holy Thing and we are
responsible for it!
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A MAN WITH A PROMISE!
The Revival We Need, Oswald Smith, 1933, page 65 “The man who is to used by the Lord will hear from heaven.
God will give him a promise. Not the general promises of the Word that apply to many of his children,
but a definite, unmistakable message direct to his own heart. Some familiar promise, it may be, will suddenly grip him in such a way that He will know God has spoken.
Hence, if I would attempt a new work for God, let me ask myself first of all the questions: Have I a promise? Have God spoken?”
When Heaven Invades Earth, Bill Johnston, 2013, page 24 “Being possessed by a promise I live without options.
I will spend the rest of my life exploring what could happen through the life of one who is willing to cultivate
the God-‐given appetite to see impossibilities bow in the name of Jesus. All my eggs are in one basket. There is no “Plan B”.
And it’s from this posture that I write.”
My Version of Bill Johnston’s quote: “Being possessed by a promise I live without options.
I will spend the rest of my life exploring what could happen through the life of a Church who is willing to let the Spirit of God restore it,
in glory and power, to become a 21st century version of the First Century Church of Acts!
All my eggs are in one basket. There is no “Plan B”.
And it’s from this posture that I write.”
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3. ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD’S PROMISE, OBEYED THE LORD, AND SO BECAME A GREAT NATION!!! 18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope BELIEVED and so BECAME the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”[a] 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised. 22 This is why “it was credited to him as righteousness.” Romans 4:18-‐22 15 The angel of the Lord called to Abraham from heaven a second time 16 and said, “I swear by myself, declares the Lord, that because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, 17 I will surely bless you and make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will take possession of the cities of their enemies, 18 and through your offspring[a] all nations on earth will be blessed,[b] because you have obeyed me.” Genesis 22:15-‐18
WE WILL BELIEVE THE PROMISE! WE WILL OBEY THE LORD!
WE WILL BECOME WHAT GOD HAS PROMISED!!!
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Perhaps the most important page in the book!
Abraham believed the promise! (Romans 4:18-‐22) Abraham obeyed the Lord! Genesis (Genesis 22:15-‐18) Abraham became a great nation! (Romans 4:18-‐22)
Meet one of my new best friends – BOB! Believe Obey Become
I know that if we will believe the promise of God, obey the Word of God, we will become the church God is calling us to be!
Ok, Dick, you are encouraged in the Lord! How can I help, how can I get involved, how can I start my process? (THANKS FOR ASKING!)
1. BELIEVE ! Start confessing the vision! Read the Book of Acts – especially chapters 1-‐13! Get a copy of the book “RADICAL” by David Platt! Before you start reading the entire book, read pages 47-‐53! Come to 9am Sunday morning Bible Study during June and July! Listen carefully to the sermons in June and July! Worship GOD with all your heart every chance you get!!! Read, reread, and meditate on pages 12-‐25 of this book!
Faith comes from hearing the Word of God! (Romans 10:17)
2. OBEY! As you read about the church in Acts, and the believers in the church of Acts, PRAY that you will become like them, and that Cornerstone will become like their church! OBEY anything that God puts in your heart to do related to becoming a 21st century version of the believers in the 1st century church!
3. BECOME! “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become, in every respect, the mature body of Him, who is the head, which is Christ!” Ephesians 4:15
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4. OUR ILLUSTRATION! A Super Petunia Miracle! (Sermon on February 28th) 1. We have a vision! 2. We can’t accomplish it! 3. God can! 4. God, we will listen! You talk! 5. God speaks! 6. We obey! 7. God plants a miracle in the soil of our obedience!
7 inch diameter pot February 28, 2016
27 inch diameter pot April 16, 2016
27 inch diameter pot May 31, 2016
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5. THE WORD OF THE LORD!
7 “To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of Him who is holy and true,
who holds the key of David. What He opens no one can shut,
and what He shuts no one can open. 8 I know your deeds.
See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.
I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word
and have not denied my name. Revelation 3:7-‐8
I believe God has placed before us an open door!
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6. SO, WHAT ARE WE PRAYING for/BELIEVING for and BECOMING?
1. A PRAYING CHURCH filled with PRAYING BELIEVERS!
They prayed constantly while waiting for the Holy Spirit! They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 1:14
They prayed to choose a replacement for Judas! 24 Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Acts 1:24-‐25
They prayed on the Day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit came! 2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 2:1-‐4
They devoted themselves to prayer on a continuing basis! 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:42
They prayed for boldness, signs, and wonders when persecution increased! 23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed one. 27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed. 28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and
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enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:23-‐31
They prayed for new believers to receive the Spirit! 14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:14-‐17 They prayed for a dead woman! 40 Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. 41 He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. 42 This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. 43 Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon. Acts 9:40-‐43 God heard the prayer of Cornelius (A Roman, Italian, Gentile) and sent Peter! 10 At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2 He and all his family were devout and God-‐fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. 3 One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!” 4 Cornelius stared at him in fear. “What is it, Lord?” he asked. The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. 5 Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. 6 He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea.” Acts 10:1-‐8
Peter was praying when Cornelius’ messengers came & asked him to go with them! 9 About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. Acts 10:9 21 Peter went down and said to the men, “I’m the one you’re looking for. Why have you come?” 22 The men replied, “We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-‐fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to ask you to come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say.” Acts 10:21-‐22
They prayed for Peter in prison! 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. Acts 12:5
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Peter miraculously was delivered from prison; he came to the house; they were praying! 12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Acts 12:12 They prayed for Barnabas and Saul, laid their hands on them, and sent them off! 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:1-‐3
Jesus spoke about Prayer!!!
9 “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you;
seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.
10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds;
and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead?
12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion?
13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Luke 11:9-‐13
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2. A SPIRIT FILLED CHURCH filled with SPIRIT FILLED BELIEVERS! Jesus told them to wait for the Holy Spirit! a4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4-‐5
Jesus told them that they would receive power to be witnesses! 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
The Holy Spirit Comes on the Day of Pentecost! 2 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 2:1-‐4
Peter refers to Joel to explain what happened on the Day of Pentecost! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. 21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’[a] Acts 2:16-‐18, 21
Peter explains what happened on the Day of Pentecost! 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. Acts 2:33
Peter preaches, filled with the Holy Spirit! 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! Acts 4:8
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Followers of Jesus were filled again with the Holy Spirit! 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:31
Samaritans were filled with the Holy Spirit! 14 When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. 15 When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 because the Holy Spirit had not yet come on any of them; they had simply been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then Peter and John placed their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. Acts 8:14-‐17
Saul (Paul) was filled with the Holy Spirit! 15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Acts 9:15-‐19
The Gentiles were filled with the Spirit! 44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues[a] and praising God. Then Peter said, 47 “Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have.” Acts 10:44-‐47
Peter explains to Jewish leadership how the Gentiles were filled with the Spirit! 15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.’ 17 So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?” Acts 11:15-‐17
The Church obeys the Spirit and sends Barnabas and Saul on missionary trip #1! 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:1-‐3
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Disciples were filled with the Spirit! 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. Acts 13:52
The Holy Spirit was involved in the decision of the Jerusalem Council! 28 It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: 29 You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. Acts 15:28-‐29
The Holy Spirit directed Paul’s steps on his missionary journeys. 6 Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. Acts 16:6-‐7
Believers in Ephesus filled with the Holy Spirit! 19 While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when[a] you believed?” They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?” “John’s baptism,” they replied. 4 Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues[b] and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all. Acts 19:1-‐7
BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT!!! 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.
Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns,
and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
21 Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Ephesians 5:18-‐21
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3. A NUMERICALLY INCREASING CHURCH filled with NUMERICALLY INCREASING BELIEVERS!
The church was birthed with 120! 15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) 16 and said, “Brothers and sisters,[a] the Scripture had to be fulfilled in which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. Acts 1:15-‐16
3000 were added on the day of Pentecost! 40 With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:40-‐41
More were added daily! 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:46-‐47
Growth continued to 5000 men! 20,000 people? 4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. Acts 4:4
More and more believed! All were healed! 12 The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon’s Colonnade. 13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. 14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. 15 As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. 16 Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed. Acts 5:12-‐16
They never stopped PROCLAIMING! The number of disciples was increasing! 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. 6 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews[a] among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. Acts 5:42-‐6:1
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The number was rapidly increasing! Priest trusted Jesus! 7 So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith. Acts 6:7
The Church Was Persecuted and Scattered! They preached Christ wherever they went! 1And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. 6 When the crowds heard Philip and saw the signs he performed, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 For with shrieks, impure spirits came out of many, and many who were paralyzed or lame were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city. Acts 8:1-‐8
The Ethiopian Eunuch was saved, baptized, and sent to Ethiopia! 26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian[a] eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.” 30 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 32 This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 33 In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.”[b] 34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. 36 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” [37] [c] 38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea. Acts 8:26-‐40
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Saul saved! Saul immediately grew more powerful! 15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” 17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20 At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21 All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” 22 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah. Acts 9:15-‐22
Paul and Barnabas Sent Out on 3 Missionary Journeys!!!! 13 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:1-‐3
BOOM!!!
Paul preached the Word in the following cities and churches were planted: Cyprus Psidion Antioch Iconium Lystra Derbe Pamphylia Attalia Philippi Thessalonica Berea Athens Corinth Ephesus Rome
Paul wrote letters to the following churches. The letters are now books of our bible: Rome -‐ Romans Corinth – 1 & 2 Corinthians Galatia -‐ Galatians Ephesus -‐ Ephesians Philippi -‐ Philippians Colossae -‐ Colossians Thessalonica – 1 &2 Thessalonians
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4. A SPIRITUALLY GROWING CHURCH filled with SPIRITUALLY GROWING BELIEVERS!
They were devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, prayer! 42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:42-‐47
They prayed! 23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. Acts 4:23-‐24
They were of one heart/mind; shared everything they had; no needy people! 32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. Acts 4:32-‐35
They met together! All of the sick were healed! 12 The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon’s Colonnade. 13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. 14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. 15 As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by. 16 Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed. Acts 5:12-‐16
They stood strong in persecution and never stopped teaching/preaching Christ! 40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. Acts 5:40-‐42
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5. A GIVING/MINISTERING CHURCH filled with GIVING/MINISTERING BELIEVERS!
They gave so that no one among them had a need! 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. Acts 2:44-‐47
They did not have everything, but what they had, they gave away! 3 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. Acts 3:1-‐8
The believers share…no needy persons among them! 32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need. 36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet. Acts 4:32-‐37
They gave to help those in a famine! 27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea. 30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul. Acts 11:27-‐30
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6. A HOLY, PURE CHURCH filled with HOLY, PURE BELIEVERS!
Sin was exposed supernaturally and dealt with drastically! 1 Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet. 3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6 Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. 7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, “Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?” “Yes,” she said, “that is the price.” 9 Peter said to her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.” 10 At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. 11 Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events. 12 The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon’s Colonnade. 13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. 14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number. Acts 5:1-‐14 The sin of Simon from Samaria was exposed! 18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money 19 and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” Acts 8:18-‐23
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King Herod’s sin was exposed and dealt with drastically! 21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. 22 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” 23 Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died. Acts 12:21-‐23
An Old Testament Example Achan’s sin was exposed and drastically dealt with!
1But the Israelites were unfaithful in regard to the devoted things; Achan son of Karmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of them. So the Lord’s anger burned against Israel. 10 The Lord said to Joshua, “Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions. 12 That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction. 19 Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, and honor him. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.” 20 Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath.”
25 Joshua said, “Why have you brought this trouble on us? The Lord will bring trouble on you today.” Then all Israel stoned him, and after they had stoned the rest, they burned them. 26 Over Achan they heaped up a large pile of rocks, which remains to this day. Then the Lord turned from his fierce anger. Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor ever since. Joshua 7:1, 10-‐12, 19-‐21, 25-‐26
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7. A SENDING CHURCH filled with SENDING BELIEVERS!
Jesus sent them in to the whole world! 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 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, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-‐20
They were empowered to be witnesses everywhere! 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
They preached in the temple and from house to house! 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. Acts 5:41-‐42
They were forced to scatter because of persecution by Saul! 1And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2 Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3 But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison. 4 Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5 Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Messiah there. Acts 8:1-‐5
They were obedient to the Spirit and sent missionaries! 1 Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. 4 The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper. Acts 13:1-‐5
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Appendix 1 The Product of the First Century Church – Martyrs
Men and women who were willing to live or die for Christ!
Stephen 8 Now Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs among the people. 10 But they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him as he spoke. Acts 6:8,10 59 While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:59-‐60
About 2000 Christians suffered martyrdom during the persecution that arose after Stephen’s death. (Fox Book of Martyrs)
James (10 years after Stephen’s death) It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. Acts 12:1-‐2
The Apostles (from Fox Book of Martyrs) Phillip – Crucified – 54AD Matthew – Beaten to death – 60ad James – Beaten and stoned to death Matthias – Stoned and beheaded Andrew – Crucified Mark – Dragged to pieces Peter – Crucified upside down at his request because he was not worthy to be crucified as Jesus was! Paul -‐ Beheaded Jude – Crucified 72AD Bartholomew – cruelly beaten and then crucified Thomas – Killed with a spear Luke – Hanged on an olive tree Simon – Crucified – 74AD Barnabas – killed 73AD John – only apostle who escaped a violent death
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Appendix 2 The Fellowship of the Unashamed! I am part of the "Fellowship of the Unashamed." I have Holy Spirit power. The die has been cast. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of His. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I am finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, chintzy giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need pre-‐eminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or praise. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by his presence, lean by faith, love by patience, live by prayer, and labor by power. My face is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my guide reliable, my mission clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, diluted, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, let up, or slow up 'til I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus. I must go 'til He comes, give 'til I drop, preach 'til all know, and work 'til He stops. And when He comes to get His own, He'll have no problems recognizing me—my colors will be clear.
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Appendix 3 Making Progress toward completion!!!
We are continuing in a process! We are becoming!
Steady progress is necessary!
Visionary Gradualism – a steady approach to lasting reform that takes into consideration 3 things: 1. The urgency of undertaking change! 2. The difficulty of achieving change! 3. The power of God who is able to do what He promised and bring about change and completion!
Persistence – firm obstinate continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition!
Vigilance – action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties The Promise to Zerubbabel to finish the rebuilding of the OT temple! The Encouragement to not despise small beginnings!
6 So he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty. 7 “What are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” 8 Then the word of the Lord came to me: 9 “The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you. 10 “Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone[a] in the hand of Zerubbabel?” Zechariah 4:6-‐10
The CORNERSTONE is the first block placed in a construction project! The CAPSTONE is the last!
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Appendix 4 The process I have been through!
1. My personal background! Born 1948 Married 1971 (Children, Spouses, Grandchildren) Saved 1974 Filled with the Spirit 1985 Moved to Baton Rouge 1993 Given a Promise 2016
2. Leading up to the promise (May 2015 – February 2016) Too slow in the left lane Atomic Bomb Earthquake – shaking everything shakable The Difference Samuel made in the nation of Israel (1 Samuel 3) Sully Sullenberger -‐Jan, 2016 A Marriage Miracle – Feb 28 Problem I Can’t God Can Let’s Talk – I will listen God speaks I obey God plants a miracle in the soil of my obedience On that day (Feb 28) we planted a Petunia in a 7 inch pot On April 6, we re-‐planted it in a 27 inch pot
3. 4 sermons leading up to Easter March 13 – The Good News of the Gospel March 20 – The Bad news of Man’s Religion March 27 – The Supernatural news of the resurrection (Easter) April 3 -‐ The Empowering News of the Holy Spirit Go! Wait! Bam! Boom!
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4. 50 Days from Resurrection to Pentecost – Easter -‐ Pentecost March 27 – Sunday, Easter April 3 – Sunday, Go Wait Bam Boom! – my sermon April 6 – Presented 50 days to men, NDOP April 10 – Sunday, Dewey preached on Gideon April 12,13,14 – Jimmy Evans Pastor’s conference -‐ Sabbath April 17 – Sunday, A Call to prayer – my sermon April 19 – CAPA meeting (Isaiah 58:1 rejected) April 20 – THE PROMISE! April 24 – Sunday, Obstacles – confession of sin – my sermon April 25,26,27 – AOI conference May 1 – Sunday, May Day – my sermon – Urgency! May 5 – National Day Of Prayer at Cornerstone May 8th – Sunday, What are we praying for? – my sermon May 9 – 1st day of prayer -‐ Morning/noon/7:00pm May 15th – Sunday, Pentecost – 3 birthdays/3 warnings/3 prophesies May 22th – What’s my part – Haggai 1 – Let the Spirit stir your heart!
5. The Promise (April 20,2016) Ezekiel 36:37-‐38 – Hear plea and increase numbers! Ezekiel 37:1-‐14 – Dry Bones Live Numbers 7:1-‐9 – Kohathites Once again – pour out Spirit Like sheep – promise of Abraham Context of Ezekiel – destruction of temple/exile/rebuilding
6. From Abraham’s promise and life -‐ Genesis 12 Abraham in hope: Believed God’s promise Romans 4:18-‐21 Obeyed God’s instructions Genesis 22:15-‐18 Became the Father of a great nation 4:18-‐21
7. My new best friends – Ezra, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Haggai, Zechariah
8. The Restoration of the First Century Church in the 21st Century! Altar – worship (Ezra) Foundation – prophets, apostles, Jesus – Cornerstone (Ezra) Temple – living stones (Ezra) Walls for protection (Nehemiah)
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9. Our Services since the Promise (Since April 20) May 1 – May Day – urgency May 5 – National DOP/Ascension/40th day since resurrection May 6 – 1st day of 10 days of prayer May 8 – What are we praying for – praying, Spirit Filled, grow numerically, grow spiritually, giving/ministering/holiness/purity/sending May 9, Monday – May 15, Sunday – 3 prayer events each day May 15 – Day of Pentecost 3 Birthdays – Jesus, Early church, Cornerstone 1983rd birthday of church 33 birthday of Cornerstone (Cornerstone birthed in 1983) Death and New Birth of Cornerstone 3 warnings Brace yourself for the Rise of evil Brace yourself for an Increase in revelation Brace yourself for a Build-‐up of glory 3 prophecies Dry bones – come alive Spirit – come, blow, breathe People – hear, know – I will put my Spirit in you!
10. Our New Identity The Super Petunia Grain of Wheat (John 12:23-‐26) Vine/Branches (John 15:1-‐8) Parables – Sower, Lamp, Growing seed (all by itself), Mustard seed (MARK 4) I Am Clean I Am a Child of God I Am No Longer a Slave to Fear I Am a New Creature in Christ
11. Five Biblical Pictures of Who we are becoming The Temple of God – Ephesians 2 The Body of Christ – Ephesians 4 The Bride of Christ – Ephesians 5/Revelation 21:1-‐4 The Army of Christ – Ephesians 6 The Pillar of the truth – 1 Timothy 3:14-‐15
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12. Not a work of the flesh! – We cannot touch it! Die! Ishmael (Genesis 16) Zechariah 4:6-‐10 Isaiah 50:10-‐11 – not my own torch Numbers 4 and 7 (Kohathites) and 2 Samuel 6 (Uzzah) Uzzah reached out and took hold of the Ark of God! This cannot be a work of the flesh! 13. Danny Jackson’s friend prophecy -‐ Many fires
14. The Isaiah Road to Victory! Especially Isaiah 60, 61, 62
15. Out of the wilderness leaning on her beloved – Song of Solomon 8:5
16. Martin Luther King – many could have done it – but he did it!!! He knew how to fight the good fight!
17. Isaiah 55:10-‐11 and 2 Corinthians 9:6-‐11 (Jackay) Bread for today! Seed for tomorrow!
18. Sunday night, Sunday May 22, Jackay and I had the same sense: Cornerstone is praying! Cornerstone is spirit filled! Cornerstone is increasing numerically! Cornerstone is growing spiritually! Cornerstone is giving/ministering! ($200,000) Cornerstone is growing in holiness and purity! Cornerstone is sending! We have a good start! We don’t need a big splash! We need a plan, a steady progress, building momentum toward a breakthrough. (Good to Great – Flywheel principle!) Endurance Perseverance Vigilance
19. Sunday, May 29 – Memorial Day – The Product of the Early Church! Men and women who would: Die for Christ – Stephen (Acts 6:8-‐7:60) Live for Christ – (2 Corinthians 4:14-‐15)
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20. We are testing Christ! Matthew 4:5-‐7 and 1 Corinthians 10:9 Asking God to bless our plan! The American Dream!
21. Saving Private Ryan! Tuesday, May 31 Whatever it takes, we must secure the bridge! Maybe then, all of this will make sense! I was thinking that I was on the bridge/Jackay asked me if I was on the bridge! 22. Monday Morning, June 1st, 2016, 1:45am “OK, LET’S DO THIS!” 23. Nathan Smith – Luke 5:1-‐11 – June 5th They left everything! 50 people responded to the invitation by Nathan including Jackay and me! 24. Daily Bread Contributions (2016) January 15 – Sully Sullenberger April 20 – Kohathites May 22 – Reepicheep 25. Contributions from David Platt – “Radical” page 48-‐53 Today -‐ Dependent on ourselves or desperate for His Spirit! A good performance/place to meet/top of the line programs run by professionals A different picture in book of Acts Timid disciples/power of Spirit/explosion/healing/prayer/demons cast out/ persecution/racial-‐ethnic barriers collapse/Saul converted,sent!
THE END!!!
