History or Propaganda? - The Gospels

Chris Lang

How do we know what actually happened at the crucifixion of Christ? Are the gospel accounts reliable? Some of the evidence that supports the reliability of the gospels include: 1) an ample number of extremely old manuscripts; 2) a consistent story between gospels; 3) evidence outside the gospels (from both ancient historians and archaeological findings); 4) a large early following; and 5) a crucified Messiah. Who is responsible for killing Jesus is also addressed.

Healing a Man Born Blind

Gary DeLashmutt
John 9:1-41

John describes the sixth miracle in a series of miracles that Jesus performed. Jesus heals a man that was born blind, but the Pharisees refuse to believe in Jesus and instead grow more stubborn against him. After Jesus claims he is the light of the world and reveals his identity, the healed man comes to recognize his healer as the Messiah, therefore receiving spiritual sight as well. Also includes an interview on spiritual bias from existentialist Jean Paul Sartre in 1974.

Schemes of the Adversary

Jim Leffel
Ephesians 6:10-12

Paul warns to be aware of the schemes of the devil. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in the truth, being confident in God's Word. Believers can put on and trust in a breastplate of righteousness. This righteousness is not of their own, but it comes from the grace that Christ has given them. Believers should also know their mission and understand the urgency of it. They should stand with each other as a wall of defense, and they need to gather up a will to fight. Believers should be calculated in their force, trusting and knowing when to use the power of God's Word.

The Power of the Word

Dennis McCallum
1 Peter 1:23-2:3

God's Word is powerful! As we develop a deeper knowledge of His Word we: gain wisdom, experience victorious prayer, are able to minister effectively, and our character is transformed. In order to benefit from God's Word we need to be willing to follow what it says, to interpret it soundly, and to live it out.

Introduction

Gary DeLashmutt
1 Peter 1:23-2:3

God's wisdom revealed through His Word often comes across as counter-intuitive and foolish. Often, this is because human thinking is distorted against God's desires. God's wisdom was fully realized through the cross, which provides us with an ability to see real character change, acceptance, and reconciliation with God free of charge through Jesus. The message of the cross is profound and wonderful for those who have place their faith in Christ, but is offensive to those who don't want God's insight into their problems.

Building Leaders Through Mentoring

Waylon Moore
Isaiah 60:22

Waylon Moore describes avenues of mentoring and how to incorporate them in practical ways. Mentoring is a deliberate relationship of trust and the spurring on of another believer. Following Jesus' example in his private ministry is spiritual work everyone can do. This involves intercession, witnessing, nurturing, and discipling. Jesus modeled these things often and well. Following Jesus' example is the way we can experience duplication in our discipleship.\r\n

The Disciple-Making Church

Dennis McCallum
Colossians 1:28

The discipling church is a church where everyone participates in each other's spiritual maturity. Discipleship is accomplished through long term consistent personal relationships. Discipleship is a role for everyone and should be a priority for church leaders to foster. Discipleship is a way to duplicate oneself. Two areas of expectations for leaders to focus on in discipleship are: 1) relatively mature Christian character; and 2) ministry competence. Fostering discipleship includes six aspects: 1) teach; 2) model; 3) coach; 4) measure; 5) no early rescue; and 6) recognition.\r\n

Christians in a Pluralistic World

Dennis McCallum
Acts 17:1-33

Paul continues his missionary journey. He preaches and persuades others about Christ's death and resurrection. Pluralism is a common view in this culture. Paul engages people and their cultural views. He finds common ground with them, challenges them, and teaches them about the character of God. Because Paul is distressed about the idol worship, he gives a convincing speech about the truth of God. Today postmodern pluralism is the common worldview. Taking Paul's approach can be effective in our day. God's desire to have a relationship with every person is the same today as it was back then. Presenting truth in a sensitive and persuasive way is essential.\r\n

War with the Dragon

Gary DeLashmutt
Revelation 12:1-17

John describes Satan's attempt to kill Jesus, Satan's expulsion from heaven, and Satan's attack on the followers of Jesus during the Great Trinulation. Within this section of the letter, we learn that Satan is a dragon who devours, a serpent who deceives, and an accuser of the brethren. But John does not stop there, and shows us how we can defeat Satan at each turn by not denying our sins, refuting with truth, and being willing to give up even our lives.