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Spiritual-growth
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Spiritual Emergencies
Sometimes in our lives, we face spiritual emergencies and I think we need to learn to prepare for these events as well, because everyone at one time or another will .. face a "spiritual" emergency of some kind.
II Samuel 12:7-25
The Acappella Church
Why Does the Church of Christ Sing?
This lesson will review the biblical foundation and historical record that establish vocal singing as the Spirit ordained manner of musical praise in public worship.
Spiritual Athletes Knowing Your Spiritual Limits Recipe for a Successful Spiritual Life The Lesson of the Leaven
How to Avoid Materialism
Materialism is a very subtle attack against our faith, against our soul. It creeps into your life because we have to deal every day with material. In this lesson, we will look at ways to beat it.
7 Spiritual Birthday Gifts Three Sets of Spiritual Fruit 3 Resolutions for a Healthier Spiritual Life in 2026 Aspiring to Spiritual Greatness The Changeless Role of Women
Materialism
Mike reviews two different types of materialism and how we are to deal with it.
All Spiritual Blessings in Christ The Spiritual Crisis How to Measure Spiritual Success Keeping the Moral and Spiritual Laws Spiritual Security Spiritual Toughness
Setting our Spiritual Goals
This lesson looks at the goals that the church, which meets inside the building, should have.
Fighting the Boredom Bear
Prayer and Fasting
The spiritual use, benefits, and practice of the combined spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting are examined within a biblical context.
Building the Faith Muscle The Grace of Giving Seeing the Unseen The Pilgrim Spirit
How Should We Worship God?
In discussing worship, there exists a tension between progressive believers who seek a modern expression of worship and traditionalists who believe in preserving established methods, while many in the middle simply desire to express their love for God in a sincere and communal way, emphasizing that true worship transcends worldly norms and is fundamentally about honoring God.
From Religion to Conversion
Repentance is a Revolution
Bible Basics
Mike explains how true repentance goes beyond feeling sorrow for sins—it's about a complete transformation of heart and lifestyle. He emphasizes that repentance is a bold, revolutionary act that turns one's life toward God, creating lasting change. This lesson challenges believers to rethink their understanding of repentance and embrace it as a powerful force for spiritual growth.
Acts 2:38
Drawing Near to God
Part 1
If you are making an effort to come closer to God, if you are investing your energies into becoming a holier person, you will not have the interest or energy to fight with your brothers or sister in the church.
James 4:8-10
Surrender
Let's Get Ready to Rumble
Standing firm against the schemes of the devil is crucial in the battle for faith and unity, as highlighted in this powerful excerpt urging individuals to prepare for spiritual warfare and seek strength in God's protection.
Ephesians 6:10-20
Drawing Closer The Point of No Return Christianity
The Disciple and Service
In this lesson, we learn the basic requirements for becoming and persevering as disciples of Christ.
Matthew 20:28
Top 10 Reasons for Missing Church The Supremacy of Jesus Christ Miracle in the Water Destructive Power The Power of Praise The Upward Call
Death - Ruth's Example
Even in the face of grief and loss, Christians find comfort in the hope of resurrection, trusting in God's promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
I Corinthians 15
What Yoke are You Wearing?
Jesus invites us to submit, carry the burden of faith, and enter a beneficial relationship with Him through the symbolism of the yoke, offering rest and lightness to those who choose to follow Him.
Matthew 11:25-30
EQ, IQ or LQ? In the World – Not of the World Postmodernism What 40 Years of Ministry Has Taught Me No Fear The Non-Negotiables
Celebrating the "Giving" in Thanksgiving
Mike explains why giving is the essential ingredient in thanksgiving.
Freedom, Slavery and Heaven
Reflect on the profound message of being freed from sin and becoming slaves of righteousness, pondering the practical implications in your everyday life and the pursuit of what is right.
Media and Christianity
In our modern era, the rapid, constant influx of information from numerous sources requires us to develop practical ways to filter and manage what we consume daily.
Response of Grace Jesus: Greater than the Jewish Religion 7 Habits of Highly Effective Christians The Foundation The Process of Sanctification The Fruit of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit and Perfection Christianity Vs. Jainism and Sikhism The Practice of Biblical Worship: Submission Introduction to Holy Hunger Drifting Away What Atonement Achieves Speed Bumps on the Road To Heaven Two Versions of the Beatitudes Prayer and Power Jesus' Impatience The First Famine The Poverty of Riches What to Pack for Summer Vacation
Waterworld
Water in movies like "Waterworld" and its biblical significance as a symbol of judgment, purification, and separation, offers a unique perspective on the importance of water in spiritual truths.
Sheep Seeking Shepherd
This sermon delves into the deep spiritual need that every person has for guidance, comfort, and salvation through Christ. Drawing from biblical imagery, Mike explains how Jesus, the Good Shepherd, calls out to those who are lost, offering them safety and purpose under His care. This teaching serves as a reminder of our need to follow Christ's voice in order to find peace and direction in our lives.
Christ, Culture and the Church The 7 Blessings of Salvation Cultivating Obedience The Holy Spirit and Christmas Going with God
God Has Planned Something Better for Us
This sermon explores how God's plan, revealed in the Bible, is superior to anything humans can imagine. It highlights the faith of ancient believers, who looked forward to a promise they would not receive in their lifetime. Mike encourages readers to trust in God's plan, which finds its fulfillment in Jesus, offering something far better than temporary solutions or material gains.
Hebrews 11
Money Matters - Part 2
Understanding the true value of money and its role in our lives is crucial for a balanced perspective, as highlighted in this insightful excerpt on financial stewardship and faith.
Freedom in Christ Christ: The Power and Wisdom of God Stalled on the Highway to Heaven The Almighty or the Almighty Dollar
The Death of a Pope
As you all know Jean Paul II has died at the age of 84. He is the spiritual leader and head of the Roman Catholic Church. It is said that there will be over 1 million people that will visit his body in Rome. The world and especially Catholics see this as an important and historic event, but how are we, as New Testament Christians, to react to the death of this Pope?
Jesus: My Shepherd You Know You're a Christian When... The Perseverance of God The Two Wisdoms Repentance has 5 R's God Provides at Mt. Moriah Why Judas Fell They Knew Who He Was by How He Was Progressive Conservatives
Judge for Yourself
One month after my 16th birthday my father died. He was 53 years old. It was two o'clock in the morning and my mother woke me up saying that she thought my dad was really sick.
Acts 4:19-20
3. How to Grow A Preacher
One of the greatest struggles that some men have is to decide if they're going to go into ministry. This lesson provides direction for those who desire this calling.
Difficult Decisions
Reflecting on the recent events in the congregation, the sermon delivered by the church leader emphasizes the importance of following biblical teachings and supporting the decisions made by the elders, urging individuals to make difficult decisions and move forward in unity.
Cults and Their Effects - Part 2
Understand the history and practices of the Boston Movement, a group that has been described as a cult, and learn how to protect your church by focusing on evangelism, condemning harmful practices, and fostering open communication within the congregation.
Adultery in the 90's
Mike argues that society increasingly tolerates adultery and moral relativism, moving away from objective biblical values and risking societal decline as a result.
Moses' Final Instructions
Moses' final instructions to the Israelites in the book of Deuteronomy emphasize obedience to God's word as the key to maintaining God's blessings, urging them not to compromise His commandments while preparing to enter the Promised Land.
The Last Supper - In Round
At the Last Supper, Jesus transformed a traditional Passover meal into a profound lesson on humility by taking on the role of a servant, washing His disciples' feet and showing that true leadership means serving others—even those who might betray you.
The Chosen Wives
In selecting deacons, Paul emphasizes that their wives should possess qualities that support their husband's role, as their character can significantly impact his ability to serve effectively in the church, aligning with the biblical ideal of mutual partnership outlined in Genesis.
In Case of War
If we understand the times and circumstances correctly, the time for war has come upon us and as Christians we need to be prepared for this fact.
Introduction Psalm of Suffering Promised / Not Promised Look for the Rainbow Paul's Greeting and Prayer Living on the Brink of Hope Colossians 3:1-11 Past-Present-Future of the Church The First Appearance of Satan in the Bible The Gideon Principles How Law and Faith Work Together A 1,000 Choices Along the Way Freedom Through Faith The Power of Prayer Oracles of Judgment and the Fall of Jerusalem The Christian Lifestyle Christianity Vs. Hinduism Prescription for Worldliness The Meaning of Grace Judah and Tamar The Mature Christian Seeks Righteousness by Faith What is Biblical Faith? The Fruit of the Holy Spirit Peter's Last Sermon The Refusal of Grace Saved yet Struggling Why We Pray Joshua's Farewell and Covenant Renewal Holy Sex Bringing Your Friend to Christ The Purpose of Preaching Order in Worship Parables of: Hidden Treasure, Pearl and Debt Cords of Love Freedom from Sin Giving our Best to God Deny Sin, Not Self Christianity Vs. Taoism, Confucianism, Shinto and Buddhism Angels: Fact or Fiction The Act of Marriage Beyond Fasting Self-Control Stillness and Solitude Stress from Worry The Sanctity of Life Living in the Kingdom Surrender How do I Acquire Searching Faith? 4 Rs in Rehabilitation God's Most Precious Gift Perseverance Pass the Salt The Problem of Abortion Make Me a Servant Sacrifice 3 Reasons for Becoming a Disciple A Changeless Faith in a Changing World Testing the Spirits The Blessings of Marital Fidelity Slow to Surrender The Burden of Leadership Honor Thy Leaders Breaking Me Softly Why Are We Rich? Before You Say "Why Not" Role Reversal Building up Without Compromise or Fear The Kingdom's Loss The Cross-Centered Church What Blood Buys Day #27 Polite Conversation Why Men? Seniors and Sin Wall of Righteousness
20. What is the Difference Between the 'indwelling' and the 'empowerment' of the Holy Spirit?
Understanding the difference between the 'indwelling' and 'empowerment' of the Holy Spirit sheds light on the spiritual gifts received through baptism and the laying on of hands by the Apostles, illustrating the transition from miraculous abilities to the enduring teachings of the New Testament.
Evil Spirits Broken or Crushed? Love That Protects
And the Award Goes To...
This article reflects on the challenges artists and performers face in balancing fame and spiritual fulfillment.
And the Award Goes To...
The Beehive
In Montreal, a city once known as "the city of a hundred steeples," a call for spiritual revival echoes through the empty buildings, urging residents to seek meaning beyond the hustle of modern life.
The Beehive
Facing Tragedy
In times of tragedy, it is crucial to offer presence, not explanations, to those affected, as healing begins when they realize they are not alone.
Facing Tragedy
Why Demons Begged Jesus for Permission The Fall of Herod Judas
The 3 Temptations of Jesus
In Matthew 4:1-11, Satan strategically tempts Jesus in the wilderness, aiming to lead Him astray from His divine mission by exploiting legitimate needs or roles, a profound insight into the spiritual battle faced by Jesus.
Matthew 4:1-11
The 3 Temptations of Jesus
Everybody Has a War to Fight
Discover how to engage in the vital spiritual battle we're called to fight and learn how Jesus equips us with the resources we need, whether as parents, students, or ministers, to overcome our unique challenges.
Born of the Spirit The Temptation in the Garden
Our Witness To This World
Reflect on the powerful symbolism behind Noah's ark as a witness against a sinful world, and consider the impact of the Church as a modern-day vessel of salvation and witness for those seeking spiritual safety.
Too Full to Fast... Too Fast to Pray
Fasting used to be part of the regular spiritual exercises of the early church. They fasted as part of their ministry of worship to the Lord.
Too Full to Fast... Too Fast to Pray
Love That Completes The Dynamics of Change
Evangelizing Homosexuals
We need to evangelize this growing number of people but are usually hard-pressed to know where to begin. This lesson provides some information towards this end.
Soft Rebellion
There are no new arguments in the effort to expand women's role in the church to include those tasks that have traditionally been given to men. Some women want to lead prayer as well as teach and preach in public assemblies and find sup...
Soft Rebellion