A.J. Dummitt

“Show Us the Father”JESUS Series Week 3 John 14:6-11 (KJV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=John+14.6-11&t=KJV]6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Today we are going to look at a discussion that Jesus has with Phillip when they were wanting to know how Jesus was going to solve everything that was wrong in their world. Jesus often spoke of “the Father” because the people with whom He was speaking could not understand how a human being could come from God. So when Jesus in human flesh is referring to the Father – He is talking about the Almighty, Eternal, OmniPresent Spirit that we know is God! That Spirit was what overshadowed Mary, that Spirit is what filled and directed Jesus through life on Earth and that Spirit is the same spirit that we receive when we are filled with the Holy Ghost – and it is that Spirit that will raise us up whether dead or alive to be with Him for eternity! Jesus explains to Phillip – that if you have seen the person of Jesus Christ…You have seen the Eternal Spirit of God because they are one and the same! Like Colossians 2:9 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+2.9&t=KJV] says, 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Jesus had already explained to some Jews in John 10 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=John+10&t=KJV]:30 I and my Father are one.31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.32 Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?33 The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God. 37 If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.38 But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. Phillip says – Show us the Father… Jesus says – I already have. The Jews couldn’t understand how a MAN could be GOD Jesus said -if I don’t do the WORKS of GOD, and you have no evidence or proof that what I am doing is a GOD THING – then don’t believe me – BUT… If I do the WORKS OF GOD and you have evidence and proof that what I am doing is A GOD THING – then believe me! Our world wants to see a better way… They want to see GOD…the HOPE beyond this life!…1 Corinthians 4:14-16 (KJV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Corinthians+4.14-16&t=KJV]14 I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.15 For though ye have ten thousand instructers in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.16 Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. Keep in mind that what Jesus told Phillip was accurate – when we see Jesus – we are seeing the only image of the invisible God.Colossians 1:15-18 (ESV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+1.15-18&t=ESV]15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by[a] him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. We know that GOD IS LOVE – Jesus showed us that…in everything He did and every word He said… He was the visible display of LOVE for all to see! He showed us that God hears and answers prayers – in the many times He healed, delivered, raised from the dead…and even in the delays or seeming denials…He heard and answered! In one of the parables Jesus spoke He SHOWED us the FATHER and the LOVE OF THE FATHER…it is usually called the Parable of the Prodigal Son (also known as the parable of the Two Brothers, Lost Son, Loving Father, or of the Forgiving Father). I think of it as the parable of the Prodigal (Extravagant) Father! We spend lots of time and energy discussing the relevance of the brothers..and their actions and reactions – but the focus the whole time is THE FATHER! Jesus was showing the LOVE of the GOD through this illustration of the EXTRAVAGANT (Prodigal) FATHER! I believe Jesus was showing us that GOD loves all of us…and wants all of us to be with HIM in the house…but even though His Love for us is EXTRAVAGANT – ultimately…we CHOOSE whether or not we will be “in the house”! The parable of the two sons (another parable Jesus tells that directly mentions a father) – has much the same message. One son eventually does the will of his father, the other just claims to…but never does! GOD GIVES ALL OF US THE OPPORTUNITY – IT ALL COMES DOWN TO OUR CHOICE! Our World is in desperate need right now. They need to SEE GOD in us! They don’t even understand their need for us to SHOW THEM THE FATHER! We need someone to step up and give clear direction for children and families in this time that we live in. It’s kind of like our society is saying, SHOW US THE FATHER – and we will be ok! Church, that is exactly what our world needs. Not someone to be a champion for social justice, not an insurgent or protest rally leader, not a political figure… This world needs us to SHOW THEM THE FATHER! They need to see God! We cannot fix them or what is broken. We can only show them GOD! The choice they make about Him is up to them..but we have to be Jesus to this world. GOD is LOVE, and that is what our world needs like never before! Not just Love, but GOD’S LOVE! When we show God’s Love – we are showing them the Father! How can we show God’s Love this week? * By praying for them to return to the Father * By going out of our way to show love and kindness * Being careful about what we say and post… * In being there when they are ready to talk/pray. * Treating everyone the same way…without prejudice * Welcoming them with joy and excitement when they return Have you made your choice today? Do you want a Barabbas Life or a Jesus Life? Today if you will turn from sin, and turn to God – you will receive the peace that only Jesus can give you! If you will be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ – all the sins and mistakes of your past will be washed away never to be held against you again. God will fill you with His Spirit and you will have peace that passes any human understanding. The choice is yours today. Will you get caught up in all the chaos, tension and trouble – or will you choose peace in your life – by choosing GOD!

Lose Your Mind“Mind Set” – Part 4 (Lose Your Mind) Text: Philippians 2:5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+2.5&t=KJV] / 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Corinthians+2.14-16&t=KJV] Philippians 2:5 (KJV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+2.5&t=KJV]5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Get the Mind of Christ, lose the old way of thinking In order to find your mind in Christ, you first have to TURN TO GOD, and turn away from your old way of doing things. Realizing that there is more to life than what you have currently found, you take a step of faith by Repenting of Sin and Turning to God, then you are baptized in Jesus’ Name to wash away the stains from the past, and God will fill you with His Spirit – the Gift of the Holy Ghost. This is the prerequisite to having the Mind of Christ. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Corinthians+2.14-16&t=KJV] 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ. Romans 12:1-3 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+12.1-3&t=KJV] 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Ephesians 4:17-24 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Ephesians+4.17-24&t=KJV] 17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.20 But ye have not so learned Christ;21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Lawrence Peter said, “Since the right side of the brain controls the left side of the body, does that mean only left-handed people are in their right mind?” “Yogi” Berra (1925-2015) quipped, “Ninety percent of the game is half mental.” In his book, Berra took credit for this one. This quotation is also sometimes rendered as: “Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical.” 1 Peter 1:13 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Peter+1.13&t=KJV]“Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” Luke 10:27 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Luke+10.27&t=KJV]“So he answered and said, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’” 1 Corinthians 15:22 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Corinthians+15.22&t=KJV]“For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.” Get a FOCUSED MIND – Filling your mind with Christ Philippians 2:5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+2.5&t=KJV] “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Beware, the god of your imagination is an imaginary god. The Christ of your imagination is not the Christ of the Bible. Make certain you believe on the Jesus of the Bible. Philippians 4:8 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+4.8&t=KJV] “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” Joshua 1:8 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Joshua+1.8&t=KJV] “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 then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Psalm 119:15-16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Psalm+119.15-16&t=KJV], 97 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Psalm+119.97&t=KJV] “I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. . . . Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day.” Chris Kleyn shares the following: “To many Christians think the Bible is like a software license. They don’t actually read it. They just scroll to the bottom and click ‘I agree’.” Paul exhorts Timothy, his son in the ministry, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=2Timothy+2.15&t=KJV]). We have got to LOSE our carnal mind, and fill our mind with Jesus Christ DAILY! Dr. Walter A. Elwell explains, “By studying the Bible we get to know who God is and what he is like. The Scriptures include over 15,000 references to God and a thorough study of those passages alone could change our lives. So why don’t we take 10-15 minutes a day minimum? Cause the enemy keeps you distracted and you aren’t redeeming the TIME you have! We should also study the Bible in order to test out what we believe. The world is filled with false ideas about God and His purposes for us. So when we hear someone stating what God’s will is, we ought to check it out for ourselves in His Word, and then reject what is false and keep what is true. Finally, we need to study the Bible in order to grow spiritually as it encourages us to love and serve God and others, calls our attention to our own sin, and helps us live like Christ.” The Bible is a Him Book, it is all about Him, Jesus Christ! Remember the acronym GIGO—garbage in garbage out. Whatever you feed your mind will fill your mind. Fix your mind on Christ. Philippians 2:5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+2.5&t=KJV] – “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:5-8 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+8.5-8&t=KJV] “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” Here is what Having the Mind of Christ looks like: When you have the mind of Christ you have a sound mind.2 Timothy 1:7 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=2Timothy+1.7&t=KJV] – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” When you have the mind of Christ you have a sober mind.1 Peter 1:13 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Peter+1.13&t=KJV] – “Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” There was a popular song once that said, “. . . whiskey river take my mind”? Do you know what? It will!Ephesians 5:18 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Ephesians+5.18&t=KJV] – “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.” We must ask the Lord to take our carnal mind, and give us His mind everyday. We can only follow Jesus, if we have His mind…1 Peter 2:21 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Peter+2.21&t=KJV] – “For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.” The only way to have revival in our community is for the church to have Biblical unity and this is only achieved when all members have the mind of Christ! “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them” (Romans 16:17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+16.17&t=KJV])! Those without the mind of Christ operating in their life are marked by “. . . envy, strife, and divisions. . .” (1 Corinthians 3:3 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=1Corinthians+3.3&t=KJV]). Now is the time for us to LOSE OUR MINDS and take on the Mind of Christ! – There is a mind to reject, a mind to receive, and a mind to renew. Repentance is a change of mind and heart that leads to a change in direction. Isaiah 1:18 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Isaiah+1.18&t=KJV] – “‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ Says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, They shall be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They shall be as wool.” 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=2Corinthians+4.3-4&t=KJV] – “But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.” Philippians 2:5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+2.5&t=KJV] – “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” To gain His, have you lost your mind?

Peace of Mind“Mind Set” – Part 3 (Peace of Mind) Text: Colossians 3:2-5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+3.2-5&t=KJV] / Phil. 4:6-9 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Phil.+4.6-9&t=KJV] Colossians 3:2-5 (NKJV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+3.2-5&t=NKJV]2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.5 Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Philippians 4:6-9 (NASB) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Philippians+4.6-9&t=NASB]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 [a]comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is [b]lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, [c]dwell on these things. 9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. You can’t have a positive life with a Negative mind. Write out your 2 biggest worries… Really over exaggerating for some…and others of you are like…you left a lot of things off that list! So let’s talk about WORRY and the MIND, and how you can have PEACE of MIND! Your life will always move in the direction of your strongest thoughts. This is good if you have your mind SET on GOD and things above…not so good if you are focused on other things! Any time you’re: Afraid—Anxious—Worried— It Compounds the issues at hand. We have a little almond shaped portion in our brain called the — Amygdala —Whenever you are afraid, this is in full alert mode. Amygdala—Helpful Part of the brain Wired for Survival—Responsible for fear. When your brain senses Danger— the Amygdala kicks in sending strong doses of Adrenalin to your body! The Problem is that our Amygdala is not objective —It is hard wired to protect us. The Amygdala needs help from Prefrontal Cortex—the Logical part of our brain. Noise at night—Amygdala tells you, you are Going to die—Prefrontal Cortex reasons what it could be. Jesus didn’t say: Let your hearts be troubled! (Do not…) Angel didn’t say: Glory God in highest—Stress/anxiety on earth. Paul didn’t say: Be anxious about everything! Phil 4:6-7 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Phil+4.6-7&t=KJV]6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. All we can do now is PRAY? Why is that our LAST OPTION? It should be our FIRST OPTION!! Prayer is powerful! Boldly go before throne grace… Not only does prayer move the heart of God. Prayer changes the chemistry in your brain. A few decades ago—Neurologists believed brain didn’t change after adolescence. Neuroplasticity — We have learned that our brain is continually changing—thoughts change brain. Neurotheology — Also known as Spiritual Neuroscience Studies relationship between: Brain & Belief in God. Prayer changes brain. “It has been found that 12 minutes of daily focused prayer over an 8 week period can change the brain to such an extent that it can be measured on a brain scan.” Dr. Caroline Leaf author of Switch On Your Brain Just as toxic—Negative thoughts—Hurt brain. – Pre-programming us for unhealthy thinking and living Prayer heals—Renews the MIND – Romans 12 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+12&t=KJV] – Do not be conformed to the patterns, thought processes or the WAYS of this world, but be TRANSFORMED (be MADE DIFFERENT)…how is that possible – by the RENEWING of your MIND! God’s Word renews your mind, and Prayer Transforms your thinking about God, about reality and about what is and is not possible! So then, Why do we worry? Panic? Anxiety? Many different reasons…we are xperiencing an Amygdala Hijack. Your brain tells you in the middle of the night…that you have to prepare for the worst case scenario…if you don’t the WORST is going to happen to you, to your family, etc… Neuroscience would tell you it is an Amygdala Hijack… Paul would say—Mind is dominated by sinful thinking. What is worry?Worry is the sin of distrusting the promises and power God?– It’s saying, God I don’t believe you are good enough to take care of this…I better take care of it without you! God, I just can’t trust you with this! Instead of letting my sinful nature control my mind, I will choose to let my brain choose the Truth that the Spirit will direct me to think. Romans 8:5-6 (NLT) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+8.5-6&t=NLT]5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. This is why we need to… Take every thought captive. So if there is a thought we have that is not consistent with the WORD OF GOD, we take that thought captive and we make it obey and follow what the Word of God tells us! (Obedient to Christ). When we choose the Word of God…we are allowing the Spirit of God to lead us in our thinking! The Spirit of God is not going to go against the WORD of God. Prefrontal Cortex grabs the Amygdala and gives every worry to God. Prayer Box — STRATEGY —Do what I can do.Give God what I can’t doTrust God no matter what. Imagine having a true Heart of Peace, Life that is full of Joy, and constantly having true Peace of Mind, because you are totally Trusting in God. THAT IS possible. And it’s also a choice. If your life is moving in the direction of your strongest thoughts…Do you like the direction your thoughts are taking you? If you don’t control what you think You will never control what you do. Identify the truth that will MAKE you free from the bondage of fear and anxiety… Then you —Write it. Think it. Confess. Until you Believe it. * Jesus First in my life. My purpose is to serve and glorify Him Alone. * Jesus in me is stronger than my sinful desires. * I’m getting closer to Jesus every day. * Because of Jesus, my family is closer, my body is stronger, my faith is deeper, my brain is sharper. * I am victorious—because the Holy Spirit dwells within me. * I place my words, thoughts and imaginations under the power of Jesus. * I am not a hostage to unhealthy thoughts. * The weapons I fight with are not the weapons of this world. I have divine power to demolish strongholds. * Worry is not my master. I trust in God alone. * God’s peace guards my heart, guards my mind, and guards my soul in Christ Jesus. * I am not a slave to habits. I am not a prisoner to an addiction. I have been rescued from the power of darkness and brought into the kingdom of God’s light. You can’t control what happens to you but you can control how you frame it. Stop interpreting God through circumstances. Start interpreting your circumstances through goodness of God. (There is a plan, He’s allowing it for a reason). Cover everything you do in prayer! Don’t Believe the LIE (anything that is not consistent with God’s Word, anything that exalts itself against the knowledge of God…anything that would make your worries bigger than your God) Embrace the TRUTH. Jesus is Truth, His Word is Truth…His Ways are truth… And the Truth will MAKE you FREE (Free from Fear, Free from anxiety, free from worry…)

Jesus is Enough! Text Matthew: 17:1-8 17 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, 2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. 3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. 4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. 5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. 6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. 7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. 8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. Mount Hermon- Tallest mountain in all of Palestine, over 9000ft tall Peter, James, and John- the inner circle of the apostles Luke 9 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Luke+9&t=KJV]: Traveled, fell asleep, woke up in a start so this story happened at night- One thing to see a bright light, but to see Jesus clothed in garments shining * English word Behold Greek word- idou– means Pay attention to this- interpreted- Behold 1. Matt 17:3 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+17.3&t=KJV]-Mosses and Elijah were there- Both had mountain top experiences 1. Moses received ten commandments up on Mount Sinai in Ex 19 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Ex+19&t=KJV] 2. Elijah was up on Mount Carmel, called down fire from heaven and it consumed the sacrifice, and the water * Why did God choose Moses and Elijah: * Moses- I think it is because Moses represents the Law- wrote first five books of the Bible, often called the Torah: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy * He was considered the giver of the Law * Elijah- He was considered the foremost of the prophets * So in Moses and Elijah you have both the Law and the prophets * Did you know that Jesus was the fulfillment of both the Law and the Prophets * Matt 5:17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+5.17&t=KJV]: Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. Then Peter sees Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah and thinks that Jesus is their equal This is where we see God respond with a voice from heaven What caused God to speak from heaven? When Peter suggested that Jesus should share His glory with someone else Isaiah 42:8 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Isaiah+42.8&t=KJV] I am the Lord that is my name and my glory will I not give to another neither my praise to graven images. 2. Matt 17:5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+17.5&t=KJV] God Presence appears in form a cloud- second important thing to notice Matt 17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+17&t=KJV]: 5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: God uses a cloud several times in the Bible to indicate his presence: 1. The Exodus from Egypt- cloud by day, fire by night 2. The inauguration of the tabernacle- Shekinah glory of God 3. The inauguration of the temple 4. Ezekiel’s vision 1:5 5. John’s vision in Revelation chapter 6. Matt 17: 5b The Voice of God spoke – Matt 17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+17&t=KJV]: 5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. This passage tells us three things: 1. Voiced Divine approval on Jesus- “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased- Approval was not focused on Moses, not on Elijah, But the focus was upon Jesus 2. Directed authority to Jesus- Hear Ye Him! Not Moses, Not Elijah, but listen to Jesus alone 3. Called for Obedience to Jesus alone, Not Moses, Not Elijah You see, the disciples distracted by the presence of Moses and Elijah, they were taught about Moses and Elijah, and they missed the point that was right in front of them! JESUS IS ENOUGH Telegraph Illustration: Back when the telegraph was the fastest method of long distance communication, a young man applied for a job as a Morse code operator. Answering an ad in the newspaper, he went to the office address that was listed. When he arrived, he entered a large, busy office filled with noise and clatter, including the sound of the telegraph in the background. A sign on the receptionist’s counter instructed job applicants to fill out a form and wait until they were summoned to enter the inner office. The young man filled out his form and sat down with the seven other applicants in the waiting area. After a few minutes, the young man stood up, crossed the room to the door of the inner office, and walked right in. Naturally the other applicants perked up, wondering what was going on. They muttered among themselves that they hadn’t heard any summons yet.  They assumed that the young man who went into the office made a mistake and would be disqualified. Within a few minutes, however, the employer escorted the young man out of the office and said to the other applicants, “Gentlemen, thank you very much for coming, but the job has just been filled.” The other applicants began grumbling to each other, and one spoke up saying, “Wait a minute, I don’t understand. He was the last to come in, and we never even got a chance to be interviewed. Yet he got the job. That’s not fair!” The employer said, “I’m sorry, but all the time you’ve been sitting here, the telegraph has been ticking out the following message in Morse code: ‘If you understand this message, then come right in. The job is yours.’ None of you heard it or understood it. This young man did. The job is his.” ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Are our ears tuned to His voice?? While others were pre-occupied with other conversations, although worthwhile they may have been, they missed the main message! * THE ONES WHO WILL HEAR THE STILL, SMALL VOICE OF JESUS IN THIS GENERATION ARE THE ONES WHO ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS! WE HAVE ALL HAD PEOPLE SAY SOMETHING TO US AND WE WERE DAYDREAMING, OR OTHERWISE PRE-OCCUPIED. “The only way I can really understand what someone says is if I am looking directly at them when they speak!” * IN ORDER TO HEAR WHAT GOD IS SAYING, WE MUST REMOVE ALL DISTRACTIONS AND KEEP OUR EYES ON HIM! 6 And when the disciples heardit,they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid. 7 But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Arise, and do not be afraid.” 8 When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. To put this scripture in context, just a week earlier, Jesus had asked his disciples a question in Matthew 16:13 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matthew+16.13&t=KJV]- Whom do men say that I am? They had responded in verse 14: And they said, Some say that thou are John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Matt 16:16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+16.16&t=KJV]– And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. It is interesting that in the space of just a week that he forgets that Jesus is the Son of the Living God. I submit to you that the entire point of the Mount Transfiguration experience is to show the inner circle, Peter, James and John that He is God manifested in the flesh The Law was necessary for its time but Jesus came to fulfill the law, Jesus is Enough all by himself. The prophets had a very important function in their day, but the prophets cant save you but Jesus can, Jesus is enough! I am saying to this church today, God has a job for someone to do! There is a work to be done, and the position is open, who will fill it? Who will go and do the work of God in this generation? * THE JOB POSITION IS OPEN, AND THE ADVERTISEMENT HAS GONE FORTH! Mark 16:15-16 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Mark+16.15-16&t=KJV] And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Matthew 9:37-38 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matthew+9.37-38&t=KJV] Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; 38 Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Acts 1:8 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Acts+1.8&t=KJV] But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. What is The job you may ask? Reach the lost at any cost! The Pay? Matthew 16:26-27 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matthew+16.26-27&t=KJV] 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. The benefits? Romans 14:17 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Romans+14.17&t=KJV] 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. And a life insurance policy that is out of this world! And, the applicants have come from near and far, and are sitting in the interview room, waiting for their turn! But, I would say to you today, that it is not the most qualified, not the most well-dressed, not the first on the scene, or not the ones with the most ability that will get the job, but the ones that will get the nod from the Lord of the Harvest are those who will hear his still, small, voice and understand what the purpose of the church is in this day! Those whose attention is not diverted by the other sounds that clamor all around, those who don’t think that they have already arrived and deserve the job because of their superior qualifications, but those who are listening and understanding the voice of God! We can argue all day long amongst ourselves, and use scripture to back up why we are right, and everyone else is wrong, but while we are crossing theological swords, people are dying and going to hell! * THE ONES WHOM GOD WILL WORK THROUGH IN THIS GENERATION ARE THE ONES WHO HAVE ELIMINATED THE DISTRACTIONS IN THEIR LIVES. Not the most educated, Not the best dressed, Not the ones with the most impressive pedigree or heritage, But, those who have eliminated distractions! If you have Jesus, you have enough! I truly believe that what God is looking for in this generation is not talent, ability, pedigree, heritage, etc. I BELIEVE THAT GOD IS SIMPLY LOOKING FOR PEOPLE WHO WILL ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS! PEOPLE WHO WILL KEEP THEIR PURPOSE CLEAR, THEIR LIVES UNCLUTTERED, AND FREE FROM THE THINGS OF THE WORLD THAT WILL DIVERT OUR ATTENTION AWAY FROM THE STILL, SMALL VOICE OF GOD! People that will not only hear, but understand what God is saying. How do I hear and understand the voice of God? It’s not enough to hear the voice of God; I must understand what God is saying. Peter heard the voice of God but wanted to build three temples. It’s one thing to hear the voice, but another to know from where it is coming and what it is saying. John 10:27 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=John+10.27&t=KJV] 27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: The way that I can hear the voice of God is only through prayer, fasting, spending time in the Word and eliminating distractions. Jesus is Enough! * When you are fearful, – “His perfect Love Casteth out all fear” Jesus is enough for you * Lonely– Matthew 28:20 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matthew+28.20&t=KJV] Jesus said, “Lo I am with you always even to the ends of the earth” Jesus is enough for you! * Weary– Matt 11:28 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Matt+11.28&t=KJV] “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest- Jesus is enough for you! * Friendless– He is the friend that sticketh closer than a brother- Jesus is enough for you * Healing– Jesus is the healer- he bore stripes upon his back for your healing, he has already paid the price- Jesus is enough for you * Salvation: Jesus died on the cross for your sins- Jesus is enough for you! If you have never repented of your sins, let me tell you that Jesus is enough for you- He died to pay the penalty of your sins You don’t need to carry it any longer, bring it to Jesus Bring your hurts to him, Acts 2:37-39 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Acts+2.37-39&t=KJV] 37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. If you have never been baptized in Jesus Name, Jesus is enough for you! * Today is your day, we have warm water in the baptistry tank * We have robes here, * There is a private place to get changed * you can be baptized and go home in your dry clothes * But most importantly, you can go home with your sins washed away!

Set Your Mind“Mind Set” – Part 2 (Set Your Mind) Text: Colossians 3:2-5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+3.2-5&t=KJV] Colossians 3:2-5 (NKJV) [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Colossians+3.2-5&t=NKJV]2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.5 Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Psalm 150:1-6 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Psalm+150.1-6&t=KJV]1Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. 2Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. 3Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. 4Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. 5Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. 6Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD. James 3:6 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=James+3.6&t=KJV] And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. Proverbs 18:21 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Proverbs+18.21&t=KJV]Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. 2 Chronicles 20:18-22 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=2Chronicles+20.18-22&t=KJV]18And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground: and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD. 19And the Levites, of the children of the Kohathites, and of the children of the Korhites, stood up to praise the LORD God of Israel with a loud voice on high. 20And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.21And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever. 22And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten. Psalm 103:1-5 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Psalm+103.1-5&t=KJV] 1 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. 2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: 3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; 4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; 5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. If you want to make the enemy look SMALL, then make God look BIG with your praise. PRAISE DOESN’T CHANGE GOD’S POWER, IT CHANGES OUR PERSPECTIVE! (It sets our MINDS on things above) Magnify the Lord in praise!Psalm 34:1-4 [https://www.blueletterbible.org/search/preSearch.cfm?Criteria=Psalm+34.1-4&t=KJV]1 I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. 3 O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.4 I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. •YOU CAN SET YOUR MIND THROUGH PRAISE… If you LAUNCH THE WEAPON OF PRAISE TO GOD – you will live in victory! THE WORSHIPPER’S ALPHABET (by Raymond Woodward) •You can talk about your ANXIETIES, or you can praise the Advocate, the All in All, the Almighty, the Alpha and Omega, the Altogether Lovely, the Amen, the Anointed, the Apostle of our Profession, the Author of Eternal Salvation, and the One who is Alive Forevermore. •You can talk about your BITTERNESS, or you can praise the Banner, the Bearer of Sin, the Beginning and the Ending, the Beloved, the Buckler, the Branch, the Bread, the Blessed Hope, the Bridegroom, the Bright and Morning Star, and the One who is Before All Things. •You can talk about your CONCERNS, or you can praise the Captain of our Salvation, the Chief Cornerstone, the Chosen of God, the Christ, the Chief Shepherd, the Cleft of the Rock, the Comforter, the Commander, the Consolation, the Counselor, the Creator, and the Chiefest Among Ten Thousand. •You can talk about your DEPRESSION, or you can praise the Daysman, the Day Spring from on High, the Daystar to Arise, the Defense, the Deliverer, the Desire of all Nations, and the Dwelling Place. •You can talk about your EMPTINESS, or you can praise the Elect, the Eternal God, the Everlasting Light, the Ensign, Emmanuel, the Everlasting Name, the Express Image of God, and the Everlasting Father. •You can talk about your FEARS, or you can praise the Faithful and True, the Finisher of your Faith, the First Begotten of the Dead, the Firstborn, the Faithful High Priest, the Firstfruits of Them that Slept, the Fortress, the Foundation, the Fountain of Living Waters, the Friend of Sinners, the Faithful and True, the Foreordained before the Foundation of the World, and the Friend that Sticketh Closer than a Brother. •You can talk about your GUILT, or you can praise the Gift of God, the Glorious Name, the Good Master, the Glory of God, God Blessed Forever, God Manifest in Flesh, God Who Avengeth Me, God With Us, God of My Strength, the Great Shepherd of the Sheep, the Guiltless, the Governor, the God of My Life, the Great God, the Guide, and the God of My Salvation. •You can talk about your HABITS, or you can praise the Habitation of Justice, the Head of all Principality and Power, the Head of the Body, the Heir of All Things, the Helper, the Hidden Manna, the Hiding Place, the High Priest, the High Tower, the Holy One, the Hope of Glory, the Horn of Salvation, the House of Defense, and the High and Lofty One who Inhabiteth Eternity. •You can talk about your INSECURITIES, or you can praise the I Am, the Innocent, Immanuel, and the Image of the Invisible God. •You can talk about your JEALOUSIES, or you can praise Jesus Christ, the Judge of the Quick and the Dead, the Jasper Stone, the Just One, and the Judge of All the Earth. •You can talk about your KNOWLEDGE, or you can praise the King of Glory, the King of Saints, the Keeper, the King Eternal, the King Immortal, the Kinsman, the King in His Beauty, the King Forever and Ever, the Kindness and Love of God, the King of Kings, and the King who Cometh in the Name of the Lord. •You can talk about your LONELINESS, or you can praise the Last Adam, the Lawgiver, the Life, the Lifter Up of Mine Head, the Light of the World, the Lily of the Valleys, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Living Bread, the Lord of Lords, the Living God, the Lord God Almighty, the Lord of Glory, the Lowly in Heart, the Lord God Omnipotent, and the Lamb that was Slain before the Foundation of the World. •You can talk about your MISERY, or you can praise the Magnified, the Maker, the Man Christ Jesus, the Man of Sorrows, the Manna, the Master, the Mediator, the Meek, the Mouth of God, the Merciful and Faithful High Priest, the Messiah, the Mighty God, the Morning Star, the Mystery of God, and the One who is Marvelous in our Eyes. •You can talk about your NEEDS, or you can praise the Nazarene, the Nail Fastened in a Sure Place, and the Name Above Every Name. •You can talk about your OFFENSES, or you can praise the Offering and Sacrifice, the Offspring of David, the Ointment Poured Forth, the Only Potentate, the Omega, the Only Wise God, and the Only Begotten of the Father. •You can talk about your PROBLEMS, or you can praise the Passover, the Pavilion, the Perfect Man, the Physician, the Place of Refuge, the Portion of Mine Inheritance, the Potter, the Precious Corner Stone, the Preeminence, the Priest of the Most High God, the Prince and Saviour, the Prophet, the Propitiation, the Purifier, and the Prince of Peace. •You can talk about your QUESTIONS, or you can praise the One who is the Quickening Spirit. •You can talk about your REASONS, or you can praise the Rain, the Ransom for All, the Rabbi, the Redeemer, the Redemption, the Refiner’s Fire, the Resting Place, the Righteousness of God, the Refuge in Times of Trouble, the Rock of Our Salvation, the Root and Offspring of David, the Rose of Sharon, the Ruler, the Reward for the Righteous, the Riches of His Glory, the Righteous Judge, the River of Water in a Dry Place, the Resurrection and the Life, and the Rock that is Higher Than I. •You can talk about your SADNESS, or you can praise the Sacrifice for Sins, the Salvation of God, the Seed of the Woman, the Sanctuary, the Saving Strength of His Anointed, the Saviour of the World, the Scapegoat, the Scepter of Israel, the Secret, the Seed of Abraham, the Sent One, the Separate from Sinners, the Servant, the Shadow from the Heat, the Shelter, the Shepherd, the Shield, Shiloh, the Sign, the Son of the Living God, the Star of Jacob, the Sweet Smelling Savour, the Stone which the Builders Rejected, the Strength of my Life, the Strong Consolation, the Stronghold, the Strong Tower from the Enemy, the Sure Foundation, and the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever. •You can talk about your TRIALS, or you can praise the Tabernacle of God, the Temple, the Testator, the Treasure, the Teacher, the Testimony, the True Bread, the True Light, the True Vine, the True Witness, the Tender Mercy of God, the Truth, and the Tried Stone. •You can talk about your UNCERTAINTY, or you can praise the Undefiled, the Understanding, the Unknown God, the Unspeakable Gift, the Upright, and the Upholder of All Things. •You can talk about your VICTIMIZATION, or you can praise the Very Great, the Veil, the Victory, the Very God of Peace, the Vine, the Voice, and the Very Present Help in Time of Trouble. •You can talk about your WEAKNESSES, or you can praise the Wall of Fire, the Wave Offering, the Wedding Garment, the Well of Living Waters, the Wisdom of God, the Witness, the Well of Salvation, the Wonderful, the Word, the Worthy, the Wise Master Builder, and the Way, the Truth and the Life. •You can talk about your X-CUSES, or you can praise the One who is X-cellent! •You can talk about your YEARNINGS, or you can praise the One whose Yoke is easy and His Burden is Light. •You can talk about your ZEROS, or you can praise the One who is the Zeal of the Lord of Hosts. •The secret to setting your mind for victory is CONTINUAL PRAISE. Praise God when you are feeling like it, praise God when you don’t feel like it! It’s always the right time…so SET YOUR MIND, when you are focused on things above…out of your mouth will come the praises of God which will bring about your victory! SMALL GROUP QUESTIONS: 1. Why is it so easy to speak negative and pessimistic things? 2. What circumstances around you lately have tempted you to complain instead of praising? 3. What are 3 things that you can praise God for today? 4. After taking time to praise God for those things and think about the goodness of God – how does your mindset change?