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Introduction : Joy.  It is a word that we hear often during this time of year.  We even sang about it this morning. We read it often throughout Scripture and especially with the announcement of Jesus birth. It is a fruit of the Spirit. “An attitude God’s people adopt not because of happy circumstances but because of their hope in God’s love and promise.” (The Bible Project) What brings you joy? Discourage vs. 5-7,18,24-25 ·          Christmas time is typically a time of joy, but for many it is a time of discouragement. ·          What causes discouragement in you? It might be a friendship, a strained relationship in family, a loss of job, a loss of a loved one, frustrations at work or school, health issues, COVID. ·          Zechariah and Elizabeth are experiencing discouragement as well. o    Vs. 7-They had no children & They were adv...

My word for 2018 is abide.  I have this great picture over my fireplace made by a good friend that reminds me to abide each day.  My understanding of abide is to "be with Jesus." What does it mean to abide?  Here are some definitions to help us better understand the word.  The Greek word "meno" which is a verb means "to stay". It can also be translated as abide, continue, dwell, endure, be present, remain, stand, tarry for.  Each week I will share a verse (or two) to help us better understand abiding. 16  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, [ a ] to be with you forever, (John 14:16) 4  Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.   (John 15:4)  

My word for 2018 is abide.  I have this great picture over my fireplace made by a good friend that reminds me to abide each day.  My understanding of abide is to "be with Jesus." What does it mean to abide?  Here are some definitions to help us better understand the word.  The Greek word "meno" which is a verb means "to stay". It can also be translated as abide, continue, dwell, endure, be present, remain, stand, tarry for.  Each week I will share a verse (or two) to help us better understand abiding. 5  And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” (Luke 19:5)   29  but they urged him strongly, saying, “ Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. (Luke 24:29)   46  I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me ...

Here are selected promises of God from the gospel of John compiled by Kenneth Boa. Whoever receives Christ becomes a child of God, is given eternal life, is no longer under condemnation, and has crossed over from death to life (1:12; 3:16; 5:24). Jesus came as the good shepherd to offer his sheep rich pasture and fullness of life (10:9-10). He who believes in Jesus Christ will live, even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in him will never die (11:25-26). When we abide in Christ, we are given the power to bear lasting spiritual fruit that will glorify the Father (15:1-8). When we come to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, we are given the gift of life in his name (20:30-31).

There always seems to be a debate when the topic of the Holy Spirit is discussed.  Some want to focus on the experience we have with the Holy Spirit.  Others want to make sure we keep things "orderly."  Both of these are misguided.  The Holy Spirit is personal and powerful.  You cannot keep Him under control and He will never go against what God's Word says. Today, I want to share several verses from the gospel of John related to the Holy Spirit.  Read these and let your theology be shaped by God's Word not extremes or what others would say.  God's Word is true and alive. 15  “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17  even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. 25  “These things I have spoken to you while I am sti...

"The Greatest of These" was Ed's title. In his younger years in a dream, Ed realized he was afraid of Jesus. Through his journey, he is now not afraid any more. Who is Jesus? To understand Jesus, Ed took us on a journey through the gospel of John. The Holy Spirit is a He not an it. Surrender and submission can be fulfilling. Some of us are not good at loving or being unified. Jesus calls us to love one another! Psalm 115:1-all glory to Jesus!