The Fruitful Life

Scott Risley
John 15:1-16

Jesus used the metaphor of a gardener with the grapevine and branches to describe a fruitful life for God. He illustrated three types of people and commanded us to abide in him through the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the only way to bear fruit for God. Practical ideas for how to abide and the benefits of abiding are given. What better life is there?\r\n

The Helper

Dennis McCallum
John 14:1-31

Jesus is still with his disciples in the Upper Room as he begins to fill them in on what will happen after he leaves to be with the Father. Jesus tells the disciples that once he leaves, he will leave them with the Holy Spirit and highlights eight different ways the Holy Spirit will minister to believers: 1) empowering; 2) interceding; 3) transforming; 4) sealing; 5) indwelling; 6) regenerating; 7) baptizing; and 8) enlightening. Being led and understanding the role of the Holy Spirit is vital for Christians becoming effective in following God.

We Have Not Been Left As Orphans

Conrad Hilario
John 14:1-27

Jesus told the disciples he was going to be leaving them soon. He explained he was going to be with the Father and the only way for them to come was through him. Jesus told them he would not leave them alone, but God would send them the Counselor, i.e., the Holy Spirit, who had equality with God the Father and the Son. This three-part union is called the Trinity. Through Jesus' explanation of the Holy Spirit, we see eight distinct roles the Holy Spirit has and how they apply to our lives.

The Holy Spirit

Scott Risley
John 14:1-26

Jesus taught his disciples about the ministries of the Holy Spirit on the night before his crucifixion. Trusting in the Holy Spirit is the key to true spirituality and to all spiritual victory. We can do nothing supernaturally for God without the Holy Spirit. Will you step into the power, guidance, and closeness that only the Holy Spirit can provide?\r\n

Walking With the Holy Spirit

Jeff Gordon
Galatians 5:13-26

In the heart of every believer, there is a battle between the flesh and the Spirit. The goal of the Christian is to be sensitive and responsive to the Holy Spirit that indwells them. This is possible because in Christ our flesh has been crucified, with all of its evil passions and desires. Ultimately, the fruit of walking with the Spirit is love.

Abraham's Life of Faith

Jeff Gordon
Genesis 12:1-4

In the book of Galatians, Paul continues to defend a life of faith as opposed to the Law. He reminds the believers in Galatia that both their salvation and sanctification never had to do with the Law, but were a result of the Spirit's work in them. No one can be made right with God through trying to keep the Law, and even Abraham was blessed solely because of his faith. As Abraham received a blessing for his faith, so now believers can receive the Holy Spirit through faith.

Nothing but the Gospel

Doug Patch
Galatians 1:6-10

In the book of Galatians, Paul vehemently opposes false teaching that adds works to the message of the gospel. Essentially, the gospel says that Jesus' death on the cross paid for our sins, and that if we want forgiven, we can ask him for it. Christians can increase their trust in God's grace by remembering that His Spirit will transform their hearts and seeking to apply His gifts to their lives.

4 Witnesses to Christ's Authenticity

Dennis McCallum
Nehemiah 2:1-8

Jesus demonstrates four witnesses that authenticated his authority to his Jewish audience: 1) John the Baptist; 2) the miracles and works God had given Jesus the power to perform amidst the people; 3) inner witness of the Holy Spirit; and 4) the Scriptures that predicted Jesus. Jesus proves here that he has authority given to him by God the Father and we as Christians today should listen to him because of his authority.

Some Principles for Servant Living

Jim Leffel
Acts 15:36-16:40

Paul's second missionary journey reveals several principles about living lives as servants. The first principle is that God works through broken people, as evidenced through the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas. It also shows the need for servants of God to take chances, be challenged and grow from failure. Secondly, servants of God will relate to the culture around us, while remaining distinct, to reflect God to those who don't know Him. Lastly, servants who want to be used by God are led by the Holy Spirit. Practicing these principles will keep us effective in glorifying God with our lives.