“Open Your Heart”

Show Notes

Scripture: Joshua 6 / Hebrews 11:31

Theme Verse: “It was by faith that Rahab the prostitute was not destroyed with the people in her city who refused to obey God. For she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.” (Hebrews 11:31)

SHOW NOTES: Fear gripped the hearts of the people shut inside the gates of Jericho. No one was allowed to enter the city or depart. Israel had crossed the Jordan River and was now camped a short distance from the walled city. But, there was one scarlet cord hanging from a window on the city wall. Rahab demonstrated an amazing faith and believed the two spies would be true to the oath they made with her. For six days Israel marched around the city wall one time and then returned to their camp. On day seven, the people marched around the wall seven times and then the priests sounded the long blast on their horns. The people were commanded to Shout! Joshua turned to the two spies and said, “Keep your promise. Go to the prostitute’s house and bring her out, along with all her family.”

Show Notes

Scripture: Judges 4–5

Title: The Battle Belongs to the Lord

SHOW NOTES: Deborah was used by God to lead, guide, and direct the people of Israel during a time of cruel oppression. She trusted His Word to be true and fulfilled her God-given work with great purpose. She was a wife and served as the only female judge and a prophetess to the people of Israel. Her inner strength and calm leadership are powerful examples of her trust in God! Deborah was a decisive figure in the defeat of the Canaanites. Following this significant military victory against Jabin the king and Sisera the commander of his army, Israel experienced 40 years of rest in their land.

Show Notes

Scripture: John 3:1-17, 7:50-52, 19:38-42

SHOW NOTES: A man named Nicodemus comes to talk with Jesus during the night. He asks questions and he has a seeking heart. God sent His Only Son to the world and offered the free gift of salvation. Jesus came to demonstrate God’s love for all people and extend eternal life to whoever believes in Him. Nicodemus was a secret follower whose faith grew slowly. Jesus is not pushy, rather He is patient. He waits and He wants to meet with you. Bring your questions but also, come ready to listen for His still, small voice.

Show Notes

Scripture: Acts 8:1-3, 18:3, 22:3-4, 26:9

SHOW NOTES: In the time period of the early Church, we meet a Pharisee named Saul. Later in his life, He makes this statement, “I myself have reason for confidence in the flesh … circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless” (Phil. 3:4-6). The new believers in Jerusalem were greatly afraid of the zealous work of this man. He was a leader in the great persecution of the Church in Jerusalem – arresting, binding men and women, and having them imprisoned. But we know God had His eye on this very zealous follower of the Law. No matter where you find yourself today … know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you can come to the Lord … just as you are!

Show Notes

Scripture: Acts 9:1-28

SHOW NOTES: Life’s Journeys will bring us face to face with difficult people, even cruel people. Last time we met Saul, a leading Pharisee in Jerusalem, zealous for the Law, and persecuting men and women who were following Jesus. He was determined this new message would not spread any further into Judaism. Saul travels from Jerusalem to Damascus when suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice speaking to him. “Why are you persecuting me?” For three days, he could not see, and he waited in a house in Damascus. Then, the Lord spoke to Ananias, “Go, for this man is now a chosen instrument of mine.” The purpose of Saul’s journey was rerouted, and he was now “called” to be a messenger of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Saul’s entire life was changed!

Show Notes

Scripture: Philippians 1:21, 3:7-9 / Select Passages in Acts

SHOW NOTES: Paul’s life included many journeys – he persecuted believers in Jerusalem and his famous Road to Damascus experience! After Paul returned to Jerusalem, he continued to learn and grow in his new-found faith in Jesus. His entire life was changed! The purpose of his journey was rerouted, and he was now “called” to be a messenger of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There is much to study and learn from Paul’s three missionary journeys, as he reached many people and established churches in Asia Minor and Greece. Of the 27 books in the New Testament, 13 are attributed to Paul, and approximately half of the book of Acts deals with his life and works. Then, God allowed Paul to “sit on the shelf” in Caesarea for several years. He was a chosen instrument in God’s hand and from our human viewpoint, it looked like Paul’s ability and time were being wasted. But God’s perspective is very different. Paul continued to share with others every time he had an opportunity. And he boldly stated, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Phil. 1:21)

Coming! A New Season – Praise & Adore Him!