Set Us Apart
Mike Maglish

Part of Building Together
A Study in Nehemiah

August 25, 2024

To sanctify something is to set it apart for God’s special use and purpose. (Grace Theological Seminary) 

17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. 19 And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Jn 17:17–19). (2016). Crossway Bibles.Now on the twenty-fourth day of this month the people of Israel were assembled with fasting and in sackcloth, and with earth on their heads. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 9:1). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

Fasting 
“By fasting, the body learns to obey the soul; by praying the soul learns to command the body.” William Secker

Sackcloth

Earth on their heads

This was also to show their lowly state before God, and to say “we are so troubled by our sin that the normal comforts of life are unimportant.”

“Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes” —Daniel 9:3

HUMILITY is the CATALYST for 

2 And the Israelites separated themselves from all foreigners and stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 9:2). (2016). Crossway Bibles.26 You shall be holy to me, for I the Lord am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Le 20:26). (2016). Crossway Bibles.7 Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the Lord your God. 8 Keep my statutes and do them; I am the Lord who sanctifies you. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Le 20:7–8). (2016). Crossway Bibles.15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 17 And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one’s deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, 18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (1 Pe 1:15–19). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

HOLY means to be SANCTIFIED for God 

5 Then the Levites, Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, “Stand up and bless the Lord your God from everlasting to everlasting. Blessed be your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 9:5). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

The RESULT of sanctification is PRAISE

38 “Because of all this we make a firm covenant in writing; on the sealed document are the names of our princes, our Levites, and our priests. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 9:38). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

COVENANT is the RESOLVE to remain sanctified

19 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, 20 for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (1 Co 6:19–20). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

Takeaway: GLORIFYING GOD with your BODY is SANCTIFICATION

How to Be a Happy Camper
Nehemiah 8:1-18
Tim Nay

Part of Building Together
A Study in Nehemiah

August 18, 2024

—Nehemiah 8:1-18

. —Nehemiah 8:17

Spend an unusual amount of time reading God’s Word.

 —Nehemiah 8:3

—Psalm 18:7-12

Learn the meaning of what you are reading in God’s Word.

8—Nehemiah 8:8

Focus on what God has done for you, not what you’ve neglected to do.

—Nehemiah 8:9-1012 

. —Romans 5:8-11

Obey God knowing the entire community of believers is affected. 

, —Nehemiah 8:1417 

 —Nehemiah 8:17

TAKEAWAY: Commit the next six days to the principles in today’s sermon.

 —Revelation 21:3

Part of Building Together
A Study in Nehemiah

August 11, 2024

7 Now when the wall had been built and I had set up the doors, and the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levites had been appointed, 2 I gave my brother Hanani and Hananiah the governor of the castle charge over Jerusalem, for he was a more faithful and God-fearing man than many. 3 And I said to them, “Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun is hot. And while they are still standing guard, let them shut and bar the doors. Appoint guards from among the inhabitants of Jerusalem, some at their guard posts and some in front of their own homes.” 4 The city was wide and large, but the people within it were few, and no houses had been rebuilt.5 Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles and the officials and the people to be enrolled by genealogy. And I found the book of the genealogy of those who came up at the first, and I found written in it:6 These were the people of the province who came up out of the captivity of those exiles whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried into exile. They returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his town. —Nehemiah 7:1-6

1. Protect the people with faithful, God-fearing leaders—“gatekeepers”.

7 Now when the wall had been built and I had set up the doors, and the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levites had been appointed, 2 I gave my brother Hanani and Hananiah the governor of the castle charge over Jerusalem, for he was a more faithful and God-fearing man than many. —Nehemiah 7:1-2

One of the first positions appointed 
Guards stationed for protection 
Assigned to guard each gate to the city 
Assigned to guard the Temple 
Trustworthy and alert 
Allowed business within walls to happen without concern of outside threats

3 And I said to them, “Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun is hot. And while they are still standing guard, let them shut and bar the doors. Appoint guards from among the inhabitants of Jerusalem, some at their guard posts and some in front of their own homes.” 4 The city was wide and large, but the people within it were few, and no houses had been rebuilt. —Nehemiah 7:3-45 Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles and the officials and the people to be enrolled by genealogy. And I found the book of the genealogy of those who came up at the first, and I found written in it:6 These were the people of the province who came up out of the captivity of those exiles whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried into exile. They returned to Jerusalem and Judah, each to his town. —Nehemiah 7:5-6

2. Follow through with what God puts on your heart.

The heart is deceitful above all things, 
and desperately sick; 
who can understand it? —Jeremiah 17:912 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. —Hebrews 4:12Without counsel plans fail, 
but with many advisers they succeed. —Proverbs 15:2262 

 —Nehemiah 7:62-65

3. Relationships come first, then roles.

66 The whole assembly together was 42,360, 67 besides their male and female servants, of whom there were 7,337. And they had 245 singers, male and female. —Nehemiah 7:66-67

4. Create a culture where all people matter.

—Nehemiah 7:70-73

5. Give generously so others can attend freely.

Discernment is Key
Nehemiah 6
Mike Maglish

Part of Building TogetherA Study in Nehemiah

August 4, 2024

Book: Tyranny of the Urgent by Charles E. Hummel

Now when Sanballat and Tobiah and Geshem the Arab and the rest of our enemies heard that I had built the wall and that there was no breach left in it (although up to that time I had not set up the doors in the gates), 2 Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come and let us meet together at Hakkephirim in the plain of Ono.” But they intended to do me harm. 3 And I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” 4 And they sent to me four times in this way, and I answered them in the same manner. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 6:1–4). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

Prioritize the IMPORTANT and IGNORE the URGENT

The Urgent Will
Demand your time 
Pretend to have your best interest in mind 
Be CLOSE to the truth 
Arouse fear 

5 In the same way Sanballat for the fifth time sent his servant to me with an open letter in his hand. 6 In it was written, “It is reported among the nations, and Geshem also says it, that you and the Jews intend to rebel; that is why you are building the wall. And according to these reports you wish to become their king. 7 And you have also set up prophets to proclaim concerning you in Jerusalem, ‘There is a king in Judah.’ And now the king will hear of these reports. So now come and let us take counsel together.” —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 6:5–7). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

Do not give a PLATFORM for LIES and GOSSIP

 (Ne 6:6–9). (2016)

The Urgent Will
Create Fear 
Focus on Self-Preservation 
Sound Pressing 
Lie 

 (Ne 6:10–13). 

Then Uzziah was angry. Now he had a censer in his hand to burn incense, and when he became angry with the priests, leprosy broke out on his forehead in the presence of the priests in the house of the Lord, by the altar of incense. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (2 Ch 26:19). (2016). Crossway Bibles.21 And King Uzziah was a leper to the day of his death, and being a leper lived in a separate house, for he was excluded from the house of the Lord. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (2 Ch 26:21). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

KNOW people can be BOUGHT

The Urgent Will
Get you to break rules 
Try to “pay you off” 
Use religion against you 

15 So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. 16 And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God. —The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Ne 6:15–16). (2016). Crossway Bibles.

 (Ne 6:17–19). 

Recognize we can be BLINDED by RELATIONSHIPS 

The Urgent Will:
Use friendships against the vision 
Demand you scratch backs 
Line your friends pockets at the expense of your best interest 

(Heb 5:12–14). 

 (1 Co 12:10). 

What God’s people could not do in 100 years, Nehemiah did in 52 days. Why? He ignored the urgent letters, gossip, lies, false accusations, fear tactics, religious manipulation, bad advice, and he recognized the gain others would receive if he didn’t fulfill the mission. 

Takeaway: Discernment is KEY to FORWARD PROGRESS

When God's People Take Advantage
Nehemiah 5
Mike Maglish

Part of Building TogetherA Study in Nehemiah

July 28, 2024

Now there arose a great outcry of the people and of their wives against their Jewish brothers. —Nehemiah 5:12 For there were those who said, “

 —Nehemiah 5:2-5

1) The work was hard and they were hungry. (vs 2) 
2) Food was expensive and supply was low. (vs 3) 
3) They were borrowing money (from other Jews) to pay the King’s tax. (Vs 5) 
4) Their children were indentured servants (Vs 5) 

The GREATER THREAT to God’s plan is INTERNAL.

6 I was very angry when I heard their outcry and these words. —Nehemiah 5:6

Angry - Burning With Anger (Fire) 

7 I took counsel with myself, and I brought charges against the nobles and the officials. I said to them, “You are exacting interest (100th), each from his brother.” And I held a great assembly against them 8 and said to them, “We, as far as we are able, have bought back our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the nations, but you even sell your brothers that they may be sold to us!” —Nehemiah 5:7-835 

Leviticus 25:35-3612 

Then they said, “We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say.” And I called the priests and made them swear to do as they had promised. 13 I also shook out the fold of my garment and said, “So may God shake out every man from his house and from his labor who does not keep this promise. So may he be shaken out and emptied.” And all the assembly said “Amen” and praised the Lord. And the people did as they had promised. —Nehemiah 5:12-13

The WORK can not be ACCOMPLISHED with UNNECESSARY BURDENS. 

14 Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes the king, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the food allowance of the governor. —Nehemiah 5:1415 The former governors who were before me laid heavy burdens on the people and took from them for their daily ration forty shekels of silver. Even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so, because of the fear of God. —Nehemiah 5:1542 For they are my servants, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt; they shall not be sold as slaves. 43 You shall not rule over him ruthlessly but shall fear your God. —Leviticus 25:42-43

It’s good to GIVE with NO INTENTION of being repaid.

16 I also persevered in the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work. 17 Moreover, there were at my table 150 men, Jews and officials, besides those who came to us from the nations that were around us. 18 Now what was prepared at my expense for each day was one ox and six choice sheep and birds, and every ten days all kinds of wine in abundance. Yet for all this I did not demand the food allowance of the governor, because the service was too heavy on this people. 19 Remember for my good, O my God, all that I have done for this people. —Nehemiah 5:16-19

Godly leaders SACRIFICE for the GOOD of the GROUP.

Takeaway: Leadership can FREE people or BURDEN people

Dealing with Opposition
Nehemiah 4
Tim Nay

Part of Building Together
A Study in Nehemiah

July 21, 2024

4 Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. 2 And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that?” 3 Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, “Yes, what they are building—if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!” —Nehemiah 4:1-3

Opposition will happen. 

4 Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. 6 But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” —Numbers 11:4-6

Opposition comes in many forms.

7 But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs and the Ammonites and the Ashdodites heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem was going forward and that the breaches were beginning to be closed, they were very angry. 8 And they all plotted together to come and fight against Jerusalem and to cause confusion in it. —Nehemiah 4:7-8

Choose how you’ll respond.

4 Hear, O our God, for we are despised. Turn back their taunt on their own heads and give them up to be plundered in a land where they are captives. 5 Do not cover their guilt, and let not their sin be blotted out from your sight, for they have provoked you to anger in the presence of the builders. —Nehemiah 4:4-59 And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night.10 In Judah it was said, “The strength of those who bear the burdens is failing. There is too much rubble. By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall.” 11 And our enemies said, “They will not know or see till we come among them and kill them and stop the work.” 12 At that time the Jews who lived near them came from all directions and said to us ten times, “You must return to us.” 13 So in the lowest parts of the space behind the wall, in open places, I stationed the people by their clans, with their swords, their spears, and their bows. 14 And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.” —Nehemiah 4:9-14

Remember God is for Kingdom work!

15 When our enemies heard that it was known to us and that God had frustrated their plan, we all returned to the wall, each to his work. —Nehemiah 4:1520 In the place where you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.” —Nehemiah 4:2038 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, —Acts 5:38-39

TAKEAWAY: Choose how you will help the Kingdom work progress.

Everyone Aligned
Nehemiah 3
Tim Nay

Part of Building TogetherA Study in Nehemiah

July 14, 2024

Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built.3 The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 4 And next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah, son of Hakkoz repaired. And next to them Meshullam the son of Berechiah, son of Meshezabel repaired. And next to them Zadok the son of Baana repaired. —Nehemiah 3:1-46 Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. 7 And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. —Nehemiah 3:6-7

Why Nehemiah?

To raise leaders and mobilize the church toward a shared vision. 

Delegation was a part of the vision. 

18 And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. —Nehemiah 2:18

“If you want to do a few small things right, do them yourself. If you want to do great things and make a big impact, learn to delegate.” John C. Maxwell, American author

Everyone had an important place to serve in the vision. 

 —Nehemiah 3:832 

 —Nehemiah 3:3212 

Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters. 13 Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall, as far as the Dung Gate. —Nehemiah 3:12-13

“It is easy to get dissatisfied when there aren’t any stones in your hand. Often we point to where the wall is the lowest like it is a problem rather than our purpose to rebuild it. We often abandon the places that need our resources and ability in favor of the ones that have already been built by someone else. In doing so, we stand on the accomplishments of others rather than fulfill our own God-given purpose.” 

https://followjonathan.com

Some refused to serve.

5 And next to them the Tekoites repaired, but their nobles would not stoop to serve their Lord. —Nehemiah 3:5

The work was done in groups.

22 After him the priests, the men of the surrounding area, repaired. 23 After them Benjamin and Hasshub repaired opposite their house. After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah, son of Ananiah repaired beside his own house. —Nehemiah 3:22-2326 and the temple servants living on Ophel repaired to a point opposite the Water Gate on the east and the projecting tower. —Nehemiah 3:26

Application to LifeSpring
Alignment - Do we have a shared vision?

Delegation - Do I understand my role in the overall vision?

TAKEAWAY
Progress toward the preferred future is made when we are aligned and roles are delegated.

Preparing with Wisdom
Nehemiah 2
Mike Maglish

Part of Building TogetherA Study in Nehemiah

July 7, 2024

 —Nehemiah 2:1-5

The return of the exiles to Judah and the rebuilding of Jerusalem:

1) 538 B.C. under the leadership of a man named Zerubbabel. It was during this period that the people of Israel built the second Temple.

2) About eighty years later, a second group, under the priestly leadership of Ezra, returned to the land. Spiritual and religious reformation occurred at that time. But the walls of Jerusalem and the completed temple would not be built. 

3) Under the leadership of Nehemiah, a king’s cupbearer, many more returned. Nehemiah’s focus was to repair Jerusalem’s walls and gates. 

 —Nehemiah 2:6-8

All KINGS answer to the KING of KINGS

9 Then I came to the governors of the province Beyond the River (Jordan or Euphrates) and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent with me officers of the army and horsemen. 10 But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant heard this, it displeased them greatly that someone had come to seek the welfare of the people of Israel. —Nehemiah 2:9-10

Sanballat represented Samaria and Samaritan interestests - Intermarried Assyrians, allowed for Ba’al worship, refused to recognize Jerusalem’s temple or Pentateuch. He wanted political influence, power, and control. 

Tobiah had been conducting business in the temple. He had a lot of influence in and among Jerusalem. 

There will ALWAYS be OPPOSITION to God’s Plan (Be Ready)

11 So I went to Jerusalem and was there three days. 12 Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me. And I told no one what my God had put into my heart to do for Jerusalem. There was no animal with me but the one on which I rode. 13 I went out by night by the Valley Gate to the Dragon Spring and to the Dung Gate, and I inspected the walls of Jerusalem that were broken down and its gates that had been destroyed by fire. 14 Then I went on to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but there was no room for the animal that was under me to pass. 15 Then I went up in the night by the valley and inspected the wall, and I turned back and entered by the Valley Gate, and so returned. —Nehemiah 2:11-1516 And the officials did not know where I had gone or what I was doing, and I had not yet told the Jews, the priests, the nobles, the officials, and the rest who were to do the work. —Nehemiah 2:16

It’s WISE to get DETAILS before SHARING God’s Plan 

17 Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in, how Jerusalem lies in ruins with its gates burned. Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer suffer derision.” 18 And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. —Nehemiah 2:17-18And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. —Nehemiah 2:18

OLD hearts can be MADE NEW with VISION 

19 But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant and Geshem the Arab heard of it, they jeered at us and despised us and said, “What is this thing that you are doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” 20 Then I replied to them, “The God of heaven will make us prosper, and we his servants will arise and build, but you have no portion or right or claim in Jerusalem.” —Nehemiah 2:19-20

Others will try to STEAL THE WORK of God

Takeaway: A WELL-ESTABLISHED plan from a GOD-GIVEN vision can be TRUSTED

When God Breaks UsNehemiah 1
Mike Maglish

Part of Building Together - A Study in Nehemiah

June 30, 2024

1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah. Now it happened in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Susa the citadel, 2 that Hanani, one of my brothers, came with certain men from Judah. —Nehemiah 1:1

Historical Overview

Chislev is the 9th month of the calendar year (September) 
It is the 20th year of Artexerxes reign 

2 And I asked them concerning the Jews who escaped, who had survived the exile, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said to me, “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.” —Nehemiah 1:2-34 As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven. —Nehemiah 1:4

God IGNITES big CHANGE in BROKENNESS. 

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. —Psalm 51:1718 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. —Psalm 34:18And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, —Nehemiah 1:56 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned. —Nehemiah 1:6

PERSISTENT PRAYER must be the CENTER of a BIG VISION. 

7 We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses (CONFESSION). 8 Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples, 9 but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them (REPENTANCE), though your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there I will gather them and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there.’ 10 They are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed by your great power and by your strong hand. 11 O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.” —Nehemiah 1:7-11

CONFESSION and REPENTANCE bring MERCY 

Now I was cupbearer to the king. —Nehemiah 1:11

Takeaway:
The MOST IMPORTANT thing in a GOD - SIZED vision is RIGHTEOUS 

Moving Toward a Preferred Future
Nehemiah Overview
Tim Nay

Part of Building TogetherA Study in Nehemiah

June 23, 2024

Why Nehemiah?
The leadership principles and attitude of Nehemiah are just as relevant today as they were in 445 BC.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. —Hebrews 13:8

History Leading up to Nehemiah • 70 Years of Babylonian captivity. • Zerubbabel leads the rebuilding of the temple. • Ezra returns to the temple in Jerusalem for the dedication in 458 BC. • Nehemiah rebuilds the walls of Jerusalem in 444 BC.
Building together: Moving Toward a Preferred Future • Having compassionate, humble, repentant, prayerful hearts. 

1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hacaliah.Now it happened in the month of Chislev, in the twentieth year, as I was in Susa the citadel, 2 that Hanani, one of my brothers, came with certain men from Judah. And I asked them concerning the Jews who escaped, who had survived the exile, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said to me, “The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.”4 As soon as I heard these words I sat down and wept and mourned for days, and I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven. —Nehemiah 1:1-4

• Making sure every individual has a part to contribute. 

3 Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate. They consecrated it and set its doors. They consecrated it as far as the Tower of the Hundred, as far as the Tower of Hananel. 2 And next to him the men of Jericho built. And next to them Zaccur the son of Imri built. —Nehemiah 3:1-2

• Realizing opposition will happen. 

4 Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. 2 And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, “What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that?” 3 Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, “Yes, what they are building—if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!” —Nehemiah 4:1-36 So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work. —Nehemiah 4:65 Now there arose a great outcry of the people and of their wives against their Jewish brothers. 2 For there were those who said, “With our sons and our daughters, we are many. So let us get grain, that we may eat and keep alive.” 3 There were also those who said, “We are mortgaging our fields, our vineyards, and our houses to get grain because of the famine.” 4 And there were those who said, “We have borrowed money for the king’s tax on our fields and our vineyards. —Nehemiah 5:1-4

• Giving God the honor for what He accomplished. 

15 So the wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. 16 And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God. —Nehemiah 6:15-16

TAKEAWAY
Plans done God’s way and with God’s timing, get God-Sized results. 

20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, —Ephesians 3:20

Closer in Hope
Luke 24
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

June 16, 2024

25 but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. —John 19:2513 That very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking with each other about all these things that had happened. 15 While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. 17 And he said to them, “What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. —Luke 24:13-1718 Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” 19 And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, a man who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. —Luke 24:18-20

In both Catholic and Orthodox traditions Clopas is believed to be the brother of St. Joseph (Mary’s husband) and earthly father of Jesus. Making him Mary’s brother-in-law. 

21 But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things happened. —Luke 24:21

Our hope can be misunderstood

We hope in a Messiah who is like a genie in a bottle. 
We hope in a Jesus who will tolerate everything. 
We hope in a Jesus who loves people in the borders of the United States. 
We hope in a political Jesus who will save us from anyone who doesn’t hold our views. 
We hope in a Jesus who is going to FIX our problems. 

22 Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning, 23 and when they did not find his body, they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. 24 Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.” —Luke 24:22-2425 And he said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! 26 Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” 27 And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. —Luke 24:25-273 He was despised and rejected— 
a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. 
We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. 
He was despised, and we did not care. —Isaiah 53:3

His suffering covers our sin

45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures —Luke 24:44-45

God Traded Down 
a Crown for Thorns 
a robe for a burial shroud 
perfection for filthy rags 
His Life for our Death 

10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. —Romans 5:10-1121 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, —Colossians 1:21-22

Hope = Being restored to God 

Takeaway 
Surrender to Christ and live for Him

Close Enough to be HurtLuke 23
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

June 9, 2024

Then the whole company of them arose and brought him before Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse him, saying, “We found this man misleading our nation and forbidding us to give tribute to Caesar, and saying that he himself is Christ, a king.” 3 And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.” 4 Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no guilt in this man.” 5 But they were urgent, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee even to this place.” —Luke 23:1-5

Jesus’ Persecution:
Jesus was falsely accused.
Jesus was accused by religious leaders of:
• Misleading our nation (v. 2) • Forbidding us to give taxes to Caesar (v. 2) • Claiming to be a king [The Anointed One] (v. 2) • Stirring up the people (v. 5)

 —Luke 23:6-16

Jesus was scourged, mocked, and ridiculed.

 —Matthew 27:26-31

Jesus was crucified.

32 Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. 33 And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. —Luke 23:32-33

Jesus’ Response:
Jesus used much wisdom.

11 Now Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said, “You have said so.” 12 But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he gave no answer. —Matthew 27:11-126 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. —Matthew 7:619 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; —James 1:19

Jesus never denied truth.

Jesus continued to show love and compassion to his accusers.

27 And there followed him a great multitude of the people and of women who were mourning and lamenting for him. 28 But turning to them Jesus said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming when they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!’ —Luke 23:27-2934 And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”[a] And they cast lots to divide his garments. —Luke 23:3439 One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him,[a] saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” 40 But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” —Luke 23:39-43

Takeaways
How will I respond to God’s offer to forgive me through Jesus’ sacrifice?
How will I respond to those who persecute me?

23 And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. —Luke 9:23

Closer in My Weakness
Luke 22
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

June 2, 2024

41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. —Luke 22:41-431 And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days, being tempted by the devil. —Luke 4:1-211 Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. —Matthew 4:11 
Jesus experienced weakness.

Jesus was 100% God

9 For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, 10 and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. —Colossians 2:9-10

Jesus was 100& Man

6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. —Philippians 2:6-73 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. —Matthew 5:3

Weakness is not a sin.

A. The religious leaders sought to kill Jesus. (Vs 1-2) 
B. Judas agreed to betray Jesus. (Vs 3-6) 
C. Jesus tells his disciples of his upcoming suffering 
(Vs 14-16) 
D. Jesus foretells of Peter’s Denial (Vs 31-34) 

CENTRAL - Jesus’s Prayer (Vs 39-46) 

B. Judas betrays Jesus and he’s arrested (Vs. 47-53) 
D. Peter denies Jesus (Vs 54-62) 
C. Jesus is mocked (Vs. 63-65) 
A. Jesus before the council (66-71)

1a) Luke 22:31-34, Jesus foretold that Peter will deny him three times before the morning;

1b) Luke 22:35-38, Jesus counseled to bring money bag and swords, for He will be numbered among the transgressors;

1c) Luke 22:39-40, Pray that you may not enter into temptation;

Central axis) Luke 22:41-44, Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane: Not my will, but Yours, be done;

2c) Luke 22:45-46, Why do you sleep? Rise and pray, lest you enter into temptation;

2b) Luke 22:47-53, Judas betrayed Jesus + they came out against Him with swords and clubs;

2a) Luke 22:54-62, Peter denied Jesus three times + and he went out and wept bitterly.

39 And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” 41 And he withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, and knelt down and prayed, 42 saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” 43 And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. 44 And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. 45 And when he rose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, 46 and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.” —Luke 22:39-46

When we surrender we experience God’s strength. 

15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. —Hebrews 4:15-16

Takeway: Jesus experienced weakness so he understands ours. 

Closer to our Redemption
Luke 21
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

May 26, 2024

Basic Rules of Interpretation: 
Who wrote it? 
Who did he write it to? 
What was happening at the time it was written? 
What did it mean to whom it was said? 
What applies to me today? 
Can it be understood literally? 
Does the Bible interpret itself?

And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, “As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” And they asked him, “Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?” And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them. And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.” —Luke 21:5-9Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; —Matthew 24:1-3 

Jesus is answering three questions:

FIRST QUESTION: When will the destruction of the Temple be?

SECOND QUESTION: What will be the signs before the Temple is destroyed? 

THIRD QUESTION: What will be the sign of the end of the age? 

And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them. —Luke 21:8

FIRST QUESTION: When will the destruction of the Temple be? 

Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven. —Luke 21:10-11

 —Luke 21:12-19

Acts 8:1-3 
Acts 11:28 
Acts 12:1-5 

SECOND QUESTION: What will be the signs before the Temple is destroyed? 

. —Luke 21:20-24

Matthew 24:15 
Daniel 9:27

They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive among all nations, and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. —Luke 21:24

—Luke 21:25-28

Daniel 7:13 
Psalm 97:2

So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. —Luke 21:31-32

THIRD QUESTION: What will be the sign of the end of the age? (Matthew 24:36-25:46) 

“But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” —Luke 21:34-36

Reasons to listen to Luke 21: 

To be careful to follow Jesus, not people. 
To hold onto the promises of Jesus. 
To be encouraged. 
Be ready to stand before the throne of God. 

TAKEAWAY: If Jesus came back today, would you be ready? 

Close Enough to Question
Luke 20
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

May 19, 2024

One day, as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple and preaching the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes with the elders came up and said to him, “Tell us by what authority you do these things, or who it is that gave you this authority.” He answered them, “I also will ask you a question. Now tell me, was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From man,’ all the people will stone us to death, for they are convinced that John was a prophet.” So they answered that they did not know where it came from. And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” —Luke 20:1-8

Question:

“Tell us by what authority you do these things, or who it is that gave you this authority.” —Luke 20:2And making a whip of cords, he drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and oxen. And he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. —John 2:15

Answer:

“Was the baptism of John from heaven or from man?” —Luke 20:4

Luke 20:9-16

Jesus has authority over our worship.

The scribes and the chief priests sought to lay hands on him at that very hour, for they perceived that he had told this parable against them, but they feared the people. 20 So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. —Luke 20:19-20

Question:

“Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” —Luke 20:22

Answer:

“Render to Caesar the things that Caesar’s and to God the things that are God.” —Luke 20:25 
So Pilate said to him, “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have authority to release you and authority to crucify you?” 11 Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin. —John 29:10-11

Jesus has authority over our politics.

Question:

“In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had her as wife…” —Luke20:27-33

Answer:

“But Jesus answered them, ‘you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage…” —Matthew 22:29-30

Jesus has authority over our eternity.

Takeaway: Have I submitted to God’s authority over my life?

CLOSER in WORSHIP
Luke 19:28-48
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

May 12, 2024

CLOSER in WORSHIP
Luke 19:28-48 
Mike Maglish 

And when he had said these things, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount that is called Olivet, he sent two of the disciples, saying, “Go into the village in front of you, where on entering you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this: ‘The Lord has need of it.’ ” So those who were sent went away and found it just as he had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” And they said, “The Lord has need of it.” And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.” —Luke 19:28-40

The word garment can be understood as a “tallit” or “prayer shawl”, which was a seamless garment with four corners, with a tassel attached to each of the four corners to remind the Jewish people of all the commands of God. 

Upon its collar, the Hebrew letters spell, “Lord of lords and King of kings” as a symbolic reminder of the promised Messiah. By laying their “tallit’s” down, the people were acknowledging Jesus as God’s promised Messiah. They were declaring that Jesus was the one worthy to be called the “Lord of lords and King of kings”. 

1) The most important piece of clothing 
2) Signified identity of the wearer 
3) Made of heavy fabric and dyed (Joseph) 
4) Durable - Used in harvest 
5) Used as a blanket 
6) Mosaic Law forbade it as payment, but used as a promise to repay (Exodus 22:26)

WORSHIP is laying our IDENTITY before Jesus 

As he was drawing near—already on the way down the Mount of Olives—the whole multitude of his disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen. —Luke 19:37

 —John 11:45-57

. —John 12:9-11

RESURRECTION ignites WORSHIP 

He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.” —Luke 19:40Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. —Zechariah 9:9

The Triumphal Entry was FULFILLMENT of PROPHECY

Worship can be MISUNDERSTOOD yet SINCERE

Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” And some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” —Luke 19:38-39Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! We bless you from the house of the Lord. —Psalm 118:26

Worship is DECLARING the KINGSHIP of Jesus

Takeaway: My WORSHIP is a RESPONSE to my ALLEGIANCE

Closer in Desperation
Luke 18

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

May 2, 2024

Title: Closer In Desperation 
Text: Luke 18 
Speaker: Mike Maglish

Desperate (of a person): 

And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’” 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” —Luke 18:1-8Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation. —Psalm 68:5At the end of every three years you shall bring out all the tithe of your produce in the same year and lay it up within your towns. 29 And the Levite, because he has no portion or inheritance with you, and the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow, who are within your towns, shall come and eat and be filled, that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands that you do. —Deuteronomy 14:28-29

DESPERATION IS- persistent prayer

 - humility - trust - giving up to gain - crying out in faith 

Takeaway:

God rewards desperation with kingdom. 

Close in Our Temptations
Luke 17
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

April 28, 2024

1 And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. 3 Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, 4 and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”Increase Our Faith 
5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. —Luke 17:1-6

Everyone is tempted to sin.

12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. —1 Corinthians 10:12-1315 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. —Hebrews 4:15And he said to his disciples, “Temptations to sin are sure to come, but woe to the one through whom they come! 2 It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck and he were cast into the sea than that he should cause one of these little ones to sin. —Luke 17:1-2

Be extremely careful not to tempt the young.

3 Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, —Luke 17:3

Pay attention to how, when, and where you are tempted.

 —Matthew 26:41-4211 

—2 Corinthians 2:1142 

’ —Mark 9:42-48

Deal drastically with temptation.

22 As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. —Matthew 13:22

18 Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. —1 Corinthians 6:18

22 So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. —2 Timothy 2:224 and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.”Increase Our Faith 
5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” 6 And the Lord said, “If you had faith like a grain of mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. —Luke 17:4-6

When tempted to no longer forgive, forgive again.

47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” —Luke 7:478 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. —1 John 1:8-10

TAKEAWAY: 
What is it you need to do in regards to these topics of temptation and forgiveness?

When will you do this?

Eternity is Closer Than You Think
Luke 16:1-13
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

April 21, 2024

Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”— 14 yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. —James 4:13-14

Retelling of Luke 16:1-13 story:

He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. 2 And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ —Luke 16:1-2

We’ve all mismanaged what God has entrusted to us.

We will all give an account to God.

10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; 11 for it is written,“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, 
and every tongue shall confess to God.”12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.Do Not Cause Another to Stumble 
13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. —Romans 14:10-133 And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ 5 So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ 7 Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ He said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.’ —Luke 16:3-7

It’s not too late to improve on how we steward God’s possessions.

-shrewd = prudent=showing care and throught for the future; astute

8 The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. 9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings. —Luke 16:8-9

-steward = “manages things that belong to someone else”

10 “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. 11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” —Luke 16:10-13

When we are faithful with worldly possessions we can be entrusted with true riches

14 The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. 15 And he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God. —Luke 16:14-15

How to know if you are a Lover of Money:

Takeaway:

I will give an account of how I managed God’s possessions entrusted to me.

How will I use my current situation to prepare for the future?

Closer To Sinners
Luke 15
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

April 14, 2024

Now the tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear him. 2 And the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” —Luke 15:1-2

Jesus explains why he is close to sinners

THE LOST SHEEP

3 So he told them this parable: 4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. —Luke 15:3-7

1.Sinners are worth chasing after

THE LOST COIN

8 “Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? 9 And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ 10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” —Luke 15:8-10

2.Sinners are valuable to God

THE LOST SON

11 And he said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took a journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in reckless living. 14 And when he had spent everything, a severe famine arose in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 And he was longing to be fed with the pods that the pigs ate, and no one gave him anything. —Luke 15:11-16

—Luke 15:17-32

3.Repentant sinners receive grace

COMMON DENOMINATORS FROM THESE PARABLES

The ONE is missing 
The ONE is found (or comes back) 
EVERYONE throws a party 

The Point: 
Heaven throws a party when a sinner repents

LOST SHEEP

7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. —Luke 15:7

LOST COIN

10 Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” —Luke 15:10

LOST SON

18 I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.” —Luke 15:18-19

TAKEAWAY: Am I pointing or inviting?

Closer In Our Motives
Luke 14
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

April 7, 2024

Setting: Social Gathering With Religious People On The Sabbath

One Sabbath, when he went to dine at the house of a ruler of the Pharisees, they were watching him carefully. —Luke 14:1

Religious people watch and wait

2 And behold, there was a man before him who had dropsy. 3 And Jesus responded to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?” 4 But they remained silent. Then he took him and healed him and sent him away. 5 And he said to them, “Which of you, having a son or an ox that has fallen into a well on a Sabbath day, will not immediately pull him out?” 6 And they could not reply to these things. —Luke 14:2-6

The Kingdom changes lives 
(See Luke 6 sermon - Fault Finders Finding Friendship)

AM I RELIGIOUS?

2 Questions to ask yourself: 

Do I care more about what others are doing wrong than about the good that is happening around me?

Am I too focused on self to see the need around me? 

7 Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor —Luke 14:7

Religious People want to elevate their status

24 A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest. 25 And he said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. 26 But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. 27 For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves. —Luke 22:24–2720 Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee (James and John) came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. 21 And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “S*ay that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom*.” 22 Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” 23 He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” 24 And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. 25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” —Matthew 20:20-288 

 —Luke 14:8-11

Humility is the way of the Kingdom

12 He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. 13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14 and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.” —Luke 14:12-14

Religious People Have Selfish Agendas

 ” —Luke 14:15-24

The kingdom is open to everyone

Takeaway: I stand in the way of kingdom advancement when I am religious

The Gospel
Romans 5:8
Tim Nay & DeAnna Coburn

March 31, 2024

24 The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, 25 nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything. 26 And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, 27 that they should seek God, and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him. Yet he is actually not far from each one of us, —Acts 17:24-27

God Rules

20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. —Romans 1:20-2124 Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, 25 because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. —Romans 1:24-25

We Sinned

23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, —Romans 3:2319 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. —Galatians 5:19-2123 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. —Romans 6:23

God Provided

12 Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned— —Romans 5:128 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. —Romans 5:8

Jesus Gives

21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. —2 Corinthians 5:21

We Respond

30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, 31 because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” —Acts 17:30-31What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? 2 By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? 3 Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. —Romans 6:1-4

Takeaway: How will I respond to Jesus who gave his life for me?

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. —1 John 2:1-2

Close Enough to Meet Our Needs
Luke 12:22-34
Tim Nay

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

March 24, 2024

Close Enough to Meet Our Needs 
Luke 12:22-34; Philippians 4:4-9 
Tim Nay 

*Overcoming an anxious heart: *

And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. —Luke 12:22-23And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. —Luke 12:15And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God. —Luke 12:19-21

• Focus more on your spiritual health than physical health.

So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. —2 Corinthians 4:16And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? —Luke 12:25-26

• Focus on productive thoughts—practice.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. —Philippians 4:8-9Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! —Luke 12:24Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,[a] yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! 29 And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. 30 For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. —Luke 12:27-30

• Focus on how God provides for creation.

Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. 
32 “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. —Luke 12:31-34

• Focus on serving others.

TAKEAWAY: Pay attention to what you think about. 

The Lord's Prayer
Luke 11:1-4
Mike Maglish

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

March 17, 2024

What is the Lord’s Prayer

Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” 2 And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread, 4 and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.” —Luke 11:1-49 Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. 10 Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread, 12 and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. —Matthew 6:9-13

What do we learn from it?
Jesus teaches us how to pray
God is in heaven
God is holy
We need His kingdom on earth
God provides
We need forgiveness
We need God to help us overcome sin
What does it mean for us?
Prayer is about God’s Kingdom impacting and changing our current reality
In your groups…
P lace Him On The Throne (His Kingdom - Heaven)
R ealize He Wants To Bring The Kingdom Of Heaven To Earth
A sk God To Provide “daily” as He promised (For you, your friends, your enemies)
Y earn for God’s strength (Not our flesh. Holy like God) 

LifeSpring Reaching Star
Nehemiah 1; Habakkuk 2:2

Part of Closer - A Study in Luke

March 10, 2024

Celebrations: Chris Kelley

Financials: Steve Mehlberg

Vision: Tim Nay

Building Expansion: Chuck Faust