Scripture References James 4:14–15 James 5:1–12 Matthew 5:3–12 Job (general allusions) Full Texts of Every Passage Read Aloud James 5:1–6 Look here, you rich people. Weep and groan with anguish because of all the terrible troubles ahead of you. Your wealth is rotting away, and your fine clothes are moth-eaten rags. Your gold and silver are corroded. The very wealth you were counting on will eat away your flesh like fire. This corroded treasure you have hoarded will testify against you on the day of judgment. Listen! Hear the cries of the field workers whom you have cheated of their pay. The cries of those who harvest your fields have reached the ears of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. You have spent your years on earth in luxury, satisfying your every desire. You have fattened yourselves for the day of slaughter. You have condemned and killed innocent people who do not resist you. James 4:14–15 How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.” James 5:7–12 Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord to return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near. Don’t grumble about each other, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. For look—the Judge is standing at the door! For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy. But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath—by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned. Matthew 5:3–12 (Beatitudes) God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth. God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied. God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God. God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Introduction The facilitator has spent the entire week burdened by the word “hubris,” convinced it sits at the root of fear. Tonight’s aim: let James 5:1-6 expose hubris in both material and spiritual “wealth,” then learn patience from 5:7-12. Context: Last week Mark covered James 4; the class is now in the penultimate session of the letter. Key Points Definition of hubris * excessive pride that presumes upon “the next” (next breath, day, or year). James’ target audience appears to be “rich people,” yet, by global standards, nearly every American qualifies; moreover, “rich” also includes spiritually proud. Two kinds of wealth Material: money, possessions, comfort, indulgence. Spiritual: knowledge, religiosity, visible ministry résumé, family heritage, etc. Signs that wealth—of either type—owns the believer Greed, hoarding, indulgence (v 2-5). Religious showiness (“spiritual clothes”); Pharisee-like façade. Failure to act justly or extend mercy; exploiting others equals “murder” (v 6). Parallels with the Beatitudes Where James condemns riches, laughter, power, comfort, abuse, and arrogance, Jesus blesses poverty of spirit, mourning, meekness, hunger for righteousness, mercy, purity, peacemaking, and perseverance. Lesson: the gospel always flips worldly priorities. Eternal perspective Reward is “great in heaven” (Mt 5:12); life now is vapor (Jas 4:14). Anything invested solely in this world is ultimately hubris. Living “in-between” Christ’s ascension and return (Jas 5:7-12) Be patient like a farmer: prepare, plant, watch, weed, rest, rotate fields, and store prudently. Strengthen (literally “prop up”) your heart for the windy day, not the calm one. Keep accounts short—no delayed obedience, forgiveness, or evangelism. Let “yes” be yes; refuse grand oaths that center on self-importance. Theological / Exegetical Points Hubris as the root behind every warning throughout James (quarreling 4:1, judging 4:11-12, presuming on tomorrow 4:13-17, hoarding 5:1-6). “Rich” in 5:1 is both literal and metaphorical: any storehouse that displaces dependence on God. Link to Old-Testament prophetic tone: direct, uncompromising denunciation of economic and spiritual injustice. Patience (makrothymia) is active endurance, not passivity—anchored in certainty of the Parousia (“the coming of the Lord is near,” v 8). Job as paradigm: honest lament plus unwavering allegiance; patience permits grief without abandoning faith. Ending with oaths (v 12): an anti-hubris safeguard—speech stripped of self-secured guarantees. Interaction & Group Responses Class consensus: hubris = “over-confidence, arrogance, uber-pride.” Many initially dismissed the passage as “for rich people,” then admitted global wealth realities and spiritual pride implicated all. Illustrations offered: “Spiritual clothes” = public religiosity that looks good but rots like moth-eaten garments. Control, self-reliance, vengeance, manipulation surfaced as heart-level weeds. “Dos” of patient waiting: worship, service, obedience, confession, accountability. “Don’ts”: self-reliance, envy, worry, unchecked busyness, control. Group named “contentment” as the practical opposite of hubris. Farmer analogies supplied by those with agriculture backgrounds—prepare soil, accept limits, stay watchful, work when windows open. Final discussion on v 12: swearing oaths = claiming power we do not possess; simple honesty re-centers life in God’s sovereignty. Practical Applications Examine both bank account and heart for hoarded treasure; repent of anything held tighter than Christ. Cultivate contentment: fast, tithe, serve, confess, and practice simplicity. Keep accounts short—tell the truth, forgive quickly, share the gospel today. Replace self-reliance with active patience: worship while you wait, work faithfully, rest when God says rest. Speak plainly: let “yes” be yes, “no” be no; refuse to leverage God’s name to prop up personal agendas. Daily decision grid: “Would I do or postpone this if Jesus returned tonight?”

Introduction Pastor celebrates last week’s harvest (33,000 in-person; 692 salvations) and warns against treating holy moments as common. Begins Advent series built around the angels’ four-part proclamation: “Fear not, good news, great joy, all people.” Today’s focus: “Fear Not.” Acknowledges modern culture’s anxiety epidemic and media-driven fear. Scripture References Luke 2:1–14 2 Timothy 1:7 Romans 3:25 Genesis 3:10 Exodus 12 Joshua 1:9 Matthew 1:23 John 1:29 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Romans 8:1 Romans 8:38-39 Jeremiah 29:11 Key Points / Exposition 1. God Is For Us—The Atoning Savior “Unto you is born … a Savior” (Luke 2). Jesus’ Aramaic name Yeshua derives from the verb yasha, “to rescue.” Romans 3:25: Christ presented as a sacrifice of atonement. Explains atonement (“at-one-ment”)—reconciling sinners to God. Biblical panorama of the spotless lamb: Genesis 3 – God covers Adam & Eve with a slain animal. Abraham & Isaac – substitutionary sacrifice on the mountain. Exodus 12 – Passover blood on doorposts prefigures the cross. John 1:29 – “Behold, the Lamb of God.” Crucifixion at 3 p.m.—exact hour Passover lambs were slain; temple veil torn, ending separation. Announcement to Bethlehem shepherds (summer) likely addressed men raising sacrificial lambs—God signaling obsolete sacrifices. Result: “No condemnation” (Romans 8:1); fear loses its legal right. 2. God Is With Us—The Incarnate Emmanuel “You will find a baby …” (Luke 2) + Matthew 1:23: Emmanuel, “God with us.” Incarnation (Latin carne = flesh): God con-carne—God in flesh. 2 Timothy 1:7 contrasts Holy Spirit of peace with demonic spirit of fear. Repeated biblical command (366 times): “Fear not … for I am with you.” Personal illustrations: Dad walking with frightened child into the dark; presence, not denial, removes dread. Pastor’s life-review: wife’s cancer scare, infertility/adoption journey, leadership through COVID—evidence of divine companionship clearer in hindsight. 3. God Is Over All—The Sovereign Lord Angels call Jesus “Christ the Lord.” Lordship = absolute ownership of every square inch. Caesar’s census moves Mary & Joseph 95 miles to fulfill Micah’s Bethlehem prophecy; massive empire-wide decree orchestrated for one blue-collar couple. Corrie Ten Boom’s flea-infested barracks: what they begged God to remove became the shield that allowed underground worship and evangelism. Key takeaway: To receive “peace that surpasses understanding,” we relinquish the right to understand and trust His providence. Major Lessons & Revelations Fear is a spirit that prophesies lies; the Holy Spirit counters with truth and peace. Jesus’ birth, life, and death complete God’s centuries-long redemptive pattern—fear is disarmed at the cross. Divine presence (Emmanuel) is the most frequent biblical antidote to fear. God’s sovereignty repurposes even unwanted “fleas” into instruments of salvation. Practical Application Monitor Inputs: Limit fear-inducing media; remember “If it’s free, you’re the product.” Replace Acronym: Shift from “False Events Appearing Real” to “Father Eternal Almighty Reigns.” Declare Scripture: Verbally claim promises (2 Tim 1:7; Rom 8:38-39; Josh 1:9). Celebrate Miracles: Record and revisit past deliverances; celebration perpetuates faith. Practice Gratitude: Obey 1 Thess 5:16-18—even for the “fleas.” Conclusion & Call to Response Christmas proclaims: God is for you (atonement), with you (incarnation), and over all things (sovereignty). Release fear, embrace the Prince of Peace, and step into courageous discipleship. Invitation extended to trust Christ, the Lamb who ended separation. ...

Introduction Series context: “Christmas at the Movies” — using modern films to illuminate biblical truths, mirroring Jesus’ parable method. Seasonal focus: the angelic proclamation that Christ’s birth brings “good news of great joy for all people.” Opening week emphasis: the “all people” element—God’s heart to reach every person wrestling with loneliness. Film illustration: Home Alone. Beneath its humor lies the universal ache of isolation heightened during Christmas. Scripture References Luke 2:10 Genesis 2:18 Genesis 1–2 Ecclesiastes 4:8–12 2 Timothy 4:16–17 Matthew 1:23 Hebrews 13:5 2 Corinthians 2:10–11 James 3:14–15 Ephesians 4:26–27 Key Points / Exposition 1. Loneliness: The Hidden Christmas Crisis Cultural misconception: depression, anxiety, guilt named most, yet loneliness ranks highest during holidays. Biblical insight: God’s first “not good” (Genesis 2:18) addresses human aloneness—even in Eden’s perfection. Home Alone scene: Kevin’s wish to be rid of his family mirrors our own impulse to escape relational strain. 2. We Were Created for Two Core Relationships With God: Genesis 2 imagery—God forms Adam from dust and breathes “ruach” (spirit) into him, face-to-face. True fulfillment flows from restored intimacy with the Creator. With People: Imago Dei means community. Attempting to replace people with work, wealth, or technology (Ecclesiastes 4:8) leaves the soul empty. 3. The Dangers of Isolation Ecclesiastes 4: A lone person toils without satisfaction, falls without help, and stands undefended. Kevin’s carefree solitude devolves into fear and vulnerability once “wet bandits” invade—cinematic metaphor of spiritual attack. Apostle Paul’s testimony (2 Timothy 4:16): “Everyone deserted me.” Experiencing the worst kind of loneliness—rejection. 4. The Healing Pathway a. Forgive Those Who Abandoned You Paul’s choice: “May it not be held against them” (2 Timothy 4:16). Spiritual warfare link: unforgiveness invites demonic influence (2 Corinthians 2:10-11; James 3:14-15; Ephesians 4:26-27). Truth: Holding a grudge keeps you frozen in the past; forgiving releases heaven’s freedom into your present. b. Recognize God’s Immediate Presence Paul: “The Lord stood at my side and gave me strength” (2 Timothy 4:17). Christmas name: Emmanuel—“God with us” (Matthew 1:23). Promise: “Never will I leave you” (Hebrews 13:5). Loneliness is answered first by divine companionship. c. Turn Misery into Ministry God often converts deepest pain into greatest calling. Paul’s prison loneliness birthed epistles that still disciple the church. Christmas outreach: countless neighbors, coworkers, widows, single adults need tangible friendship and gospel hope. Major Lessons & Revelations Loneliness is a spiritual and relational deficit, not just an emotional state. Forgiveness is a decisive spiritual act that shuts demonic doorways and ushers in freedom. Jesus’ incarnation proves God’s willingness to enter our loneliness and stay beside us. Ministry to others is God’s antidote to self-focus and an avenue for personal healing. Practical Application Conduct a relational inventory; list names that stir resentment and verbally release forgiveness. Set daily reminders of God’s presence—read Matthew 1:23 each morning, pray “Thank You that You are with me.” Identify at least one lonely person (elderly neighbor, single coworker, estranged family member) and: initiate a visit or call this week, invite them to a Christmas service, serve a practical need (meal, ride, small gift). Join or host a small group to embed yourself in ongoing Christian community. Conclusion & Call to Response Christ’s birth heralds glad tidings for “all people,” including the lonely. Freedom begins with receiving God’s forgiveness, extending that forgiveness to others, and stepping into community. The sermon concluded with an invitation to salvation—crossing the line of faith into relationship with Jesus—followed by public declarations of that decision. ...

Introduction The speaker—an investigative journalist and former skeptic—opens with a humorous family story and then recounts Elisha’s servant in 2 Kings 6 whose eyes are opened to angelic hosts. This biblical episode frames the central question: Does a supernatural realm still break into our world today? Drawing from years of research for his new book, “Seeing the Supernatural,” the preacher promises evidence-based glimpses into angels, miracles, near-death experiences, and visions that strengthen faith. ...

Introduction Leader opened with a real-life “home intruder” story to illustrate how one irreversible decision (pulling a trigger) parallels the permanent impact of spoken words. Group reflected on the gravity of life-and-death choices and transitioned to the greater spiritual issue: how words can destroy or give life. Scripture References James 3:1–13 James 1:19 James 4:7 Galatians 6:1 Proverbs 10:21 Proverbs 12:25 Proverbs 16:24 Proverbs 18:21 Matthew 10:14 Key Points Teachers are judged more strictly (James 3:1) - spiritual stewardship brings weight and accountability. We all stumble with words; mastering the tongue is equated with overall self-control (James 3:2). Three analogies for the tongue (vv. 3-6): Bit in a horse’s mouth - small device, huge influence. Rudder on a ship - tiny part, steers great mass. Spark in a forest - minor origin, catastrophic result. Tongue described as “restless evil,” “full of deadly poison,” “set on fire by hell” (vv. 6-8). Inconsistency exposed: with the same mouth we praise God and curse people made in His image (vv. 9-10). Final images (vv. 11-12): a spring cannot yield both salt and fresh water; fig trees cannot bear olives—our speech reveals the true source within. Theological / Exegetical Points “Judged more strictly” underscores God’s expectation that teachers preserve doctrinal accuracy and model Christ-like character. James echoes Jesus’ teaching that fruit reveals the tree’s nature; speech discloses heart allegiance. Cross-texts reinforce: James 1:19 - be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. Galatians 6:1 - restore others “in a spirit of gentleness,” only as the Spirit leads. Proverbs collections stress life-giving and destructive power of words. Interaction & Group Responses Gun scenario prompted debate on courage, restraint, and irreversible consequences; served as springboard to discuss verbal “bullets.” Several confessed to posting or texting thoughtless words; others shared safeguards: Store draft messages, review later. Let spouse/friend read sensitive texts before sending. Prefer phone or face-to-face over text for delicate matters. Agreement that investing relationally allows loving correction to be received. Contrast discussed between virtuous boldness (truth-telling) and reckless speech. Practical Applications Practice “talk less, listen more” this week; intentionally pause before responding. Run potential posts or texts through a spiritual filter—ask, “Does this praise my Creator or curse His creation?” Use words to build up: send encouraging texts, call isolated members (e.g., birthdays, health crises). When correction is needed, ensure the Holy Spirit’s prompting, speak in love (Gal 6:1), and consider tone/medium. Memorize or revisit key Proverbs on speech to reshape reflexive patterns. Prayer / Intercession Items Collective petition for Holy Spirit control over tongues; desire to reflect Christ in every word.

Introduction Weekend celebration: ~3,000 participants graduating from the 10-week “Rooted” discipleship experience at Lake Pointe. Upcoming evangelistic weekend: “Christmas at the Movies,” Nov 29–30, designed for guests far from God. CS Lewis’s fictional dialogue in hell: the most effective lie is “There is no hurry.” Transition to Acts 24: the Apostle Paul on trial before Governor Felix and his wife Drusilla—powerful, elite, yet spiritually undecided. Scripture References Acts 22–24 Proverbs 25:28 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 1 Corinthians 7:3–5 Romans 12:1 2 Corinthians 5:21 John 5:22 Matthew 16:27 Hebrews 9:27 Romans 14:10 Matthew 24:37–39 Isaiah 66 Key Points / Exposition 1. Righteousness: Achieved or Received? Every world religion & secular philosophy views righteousness as something to earn; Christianity alone sees it as a gift to receive. Islam: Five Pillars; Buddhism: Eightfold Path; Mormonism: obedience for salvation; secular humanism: activism & virtue signaling. Romans says “There is no one righteous, not even one.” Ten-Commandment “pop quiz” demonstrates universal guilt (adultery, murder in the heart, theft, lying). Two possible paths: Achieve flawless obedience—impossible. Receive Christ’s righteousness by faith (2 Cor 5:21). 2. Self-Control: The Gatekeeper Virtue Paul speaks to Felix & Drusilla’s sexual sin (adulterous relationship). Principle: most destructive sins flow from lack of self-control (gluttony, addiction, gossip, greed, wrath). Proverbs 25:28—person without self-control is a city with broken walls. Specific cultural application: Singles: any sex outside covenant marriage = porneia (1 Thess 4). Marrieds: commanded not to deprive one another (1 Cor 7), yet many neglect intimacy. Bodies belong to Christ (Rom 12:1); believers must “learn to control” desires, not be ruled by them. 3. The Judgment to Come Felix trembles yet postpones decision: “When it is convenient I will call for you.” Biblical certainties: Jesus Himself is Judge (John 5:22). Everyone will face judgment (Heb 9:27; Rom 14:10). Two distinct judgments: Great White Throne—condemnation for unbelievers. Bema Seat—commendation & rewards for believers (Matt 16:27). Christ’s return is certain and could interrupt ordinary life (Matt 24:37-39). Historical prophecies already fulfilled (nation of Israel, Messiah’s virgin birth, 1948 statehood) assure future ones will also occur—Jesus will return. Major Lessons & Revelations Delayed obedience is disobedience; spiritual procrastination destroys souls. Righteousness cannot be earned; it is imputed through faith in Christ. Self-control guards every other area of holiness. The final judgment is not mythological—it is certain, personal, and imminent. Practical Application Receive Christ’s righteousness today—repent and believe the gospel. Conduct a self-control audit: identify desires (sexual, financial, verbal, appetites) where walls are down; submit them to the Spirit. Married couples: honor God by honoring marital intimacy; singles: honor God by abstaining until marriage. Live with eternity in view—invest time, resources, and testimony so you will be rewarded, not merely rescued. Invite unreached friends/family to Nov 29–30 outreach; prioritize their salvation. Conclusion & Call to Response Like Felix, many “believe in heaven and hell” yet assume there is “no hurry.” Pastor’s personal story: friend Ian postponed decision, died suddenly, and is now eternally lost. Urgent appeal: forgive, confess, reconcile, share the gospel, join serious discipleship—do it now, not later. Video testimony of a recent Rooted graduate shown to illustrate life-changing power of immediate obedience.

Introduction The study opened with light conversation on New-Year resolutions, “trying” vs. “doing,” and how mere intention quickly fades. Tonight’s focus: James 2 : 14 - 26, presented as the “apex” of James—everything before it points forward and everything after it looks back. Goal: allow the passage to “penetrate marrow,” producing conviction and action rather than mere agreement. Scripture References Luke 10:25-37 James 2:14-26 Matthew 7:21-23 Romans 3:28 Full Texts (NIV) Luke 10 : 25 - 37 “On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus…‘Go and do likewise.’” ...

Introduction Pastor opens by honoring students who led worship, remembering his own first preaching opportunity. Announces “Christmas at the Movies” (Nov 29–30) designed for evangelism. Sets tone: Today’s shorter message focuses on what will matter when believers are “hugging Jesus”—handing down the faith. Scripture References Hebrews 12:1–2 Hebrews 11 Judges 2:7–10 Genesis 25:21, 25–26 Genesis 37 Key Points / Exposition 1. The Christian Life Is a Relay Race Hebrews 12:1–2 links believers to the “great cloud of witnesses” (Heb 11). Analogy progression: Sprint = initial zeal (energy fades). Marathon = long-term rhythms (helpful but incomplete). Relay = success hinges on the baton pass. Olympic 4×100 illustration (Tokyo 2021): U.S. team lost despite fastest runners; failure occurred in the exchange zone. Spiritual exchange zone: the unbroken transfer of the gospel from the apostles to today’s church. 2. A Charge to the Younger Generation (< 35) Cultural narrative labels Gen Z/Millennials as lazy, purposeless; Scripture and history disagree. Ordinary vs. Extraordinary operations of the Spirit: periods when God does more in minutes than humans in decades (revival). Survey of U.S. Great Awakenings: First (1730s–40s) – Jonathan Edwards, George Whitefield. Second (1790–1850) – Charles Finney, Father Nash. Third (1900–10) – D. L. Moody, Azusa Street. Fourth (late 1960s–70s) – Billy Graham, Chuck Smith, Jesus Movement. Pattern: roughly 50-year intervals; timeline points to potential new move (≈ 2025). Current indicators: Bible sales +42 %, Christian app downloads +80 %, worship streams +50 %, Gen Z/Millennials now largest church-attending block. Historical fact: every awakening was sparked by leaders in their teens, 20s, or early 30s. Call: Consecrate these years; trade drinking, gaming, and scrolling for gospel mission; ask, “What would I attempt if I knew God was in it?” 3. A Charge to the Older Generation (35+) Judges 2:7–10—tragic failure when one generation doesn’t pass on what it has “seen.” Gospel is always one generation from extinction; complacency is dangerous even in seasons of growth. Biblical model of multigenerational transfer: Abraham → Isaac → Jacob. Abraham: first believer in family, a “blessed mess,” but changed the family tree. Isaac: did “a little better”—one wife, prayed, trusted God. Jacob: walked intimately with God; father of the 12 tribes. Principle: each generation’s ceiling becomes the next generation’s floor. Societal commentary: culture dismantles fatherhood and expects government to fill the gap; church must raise strong spiritual mothers and fathers. Pastor’s testimony: Grandfather Jerry—saved late, first college graduate at 50, small-church pastor. Father Rick—encourager, seminary-trained, church planter. Josh—beneficiary of 80 years of accumulated ministry experience at 35, now leading Lake Pointe. Illustration of baton successfully passed. Major Lessons & Revelations God sovereignly places believers in a particular time with specific gifts to advance His kingdom. Faith transmission is the central task of the church; revival often ignites through consecrated young adults supported by faithful elders. Spiritual legacy requires intentionality; without it, an entire generation can “arise who do not know the Lord.” When the baton is rightly passed, God multiplies impact—each generation stands on the shoulders of the previous one. Practical Application For the Under-35s: ...

Introduction Recap of James 1: external trials require internal, Spirit-formed responses (“listen and do,” “quick to listen, slow to anger”). Transition: James now moves from the general (chapter 1) to specific conduct issues—first up, favoritism in the church. Scripture References James 1:15; James 2:1-13 Matthew 5 (Beatitudes / Sermon on the Mount); Matthew 19:24 Luke 10:25-37 (Good Samaritan) Leviticus 19:18 (quoted, “Love your neighbor as yourself”) Key Points James 1:15 reviewed - sin’s progression: desire → sin → death (Cain parallel). James 2:1 - command: “Believers… must not show favoritism.” Working definition offered: valuing certain people over others. Reasons we show favoritism (class input): Pride, comfort, prejudice (appearance, dress, wealth, tats, religion, age, orientation). Self-interest: “people who can help me.” First-century setting: Near-caste society—extremely rich & extremely poor often attended same gatherings. Modern parallels: How would Lake Pointe treat a Lexus-driver vs. homeless visitor? First 17 seconds of contact decide return visit. Business illustration (Kyle’s dad selling power-sports): legitimizing “discrimination” for profit vs. kingdom ethics. Royal Law (James 2:8) = Jesus’ greatest-commandment summary “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Violation seriousness (2:9-11): favoritism = sin on par with adultery or murder—break one part, break the whole law. Root issue identified by group: lack of faith/trust in God as provider (money, comfort, protection). Judgment & mercy (2:12-13): believers will still face divine evaluation; absence of mercy toward people brings stricter judgment (“mercy triumphs over judgment”). Open question left for future study: Is this a matter of salvation or reward? Posture of the heart vs. isolated incidents. Theological / Exegetical Points “Royal law” unique phrase—highlights Jesus as King and His ethic as supreme. James echoes Sermon on the Mount repeatedly; poverty, meekness, mercy connect to Beatitudes. Eye-of-needle text (Mt 19:24) raised to question courting the wealthy for church funding; consensus: trust God, not donors. Interaction & Group Responses Ice-breaker: “Lunch with a pastor, felon, illegal immigrant, PhD, or CEO—who & why?” Answers revealed personal values (impact evangelism, brokenness stories, leadership insight). Multiple men shared dealership / sales anecdotes illustrating snap judgments. Debate: “Healthy discernment” vs. sinful favoritism—where is the line when protecting family or stewarding time? Class concurred they commit this sin “daily” or “15,000 times a day,” often unconsciously. Practical Applications Examine heart posture each time you meet someone new—ask, “Am I loving a neighbor or leveraging a contact?” Pair every “pour-into-me” meeting with one where you pour into someone else (rough 1:1 ratio suggested). Learn & use names of marginalized attenders (example: two homeless regulars in café). Greeters / parking-lot volunteers: remember visitors decide within seconds if they’ll return. Pray for Holy Spirit discernment to balance family safety with gospel hospitality. Next Meeting / Future Arrangements Next week: continuation in James 2 (faith & works). Leader anticipates “really, really heavy stuff.”

Introduction Pastor begins with lighthearted remarks about arriving “disheveled” after family soccer and cheer events, then quickly shifts: no sleepy listeners—today is about the return of Jesus. Series theme: “Run to Win” (1 Cor 9)—races have a finish line; believers must live in view of the end. Hide-and-seek illustration with his children: escalating count and the shout “Ready or not, here I come!” parallels Christ’s escalating signs and certain return. Scripture References Revelation 22:12 John 14:3 Matthew 24 Matthew 24:9 Matthew 24:14 Daniel 12 Revelation 11 Revelation 13 Acts 1 Acts 17 Ezekiel 44:1-3 Zechariah 14:3-5 2 Thessalonians 2:3 2 Peter 3:9 Key Points / Exposition 1. Jesus Is Coming Revelation 22:12 first declaration: “Look, I am coming.” Wedding imagery (John 14:3) explained through 1st-century Jewish customs: Groom negotiates a mohar (bride-price) with the father—Christ paid the ultimate price at the cross. Groom departs to prepare an addition onto his father’s house—“In My Father’s house are many rooms.” Bride lives in expectancy; the father decides the moment of return; a trumpet (shofar) announces the groom. Church = Bride; Jesus = Groom; Father alone sets the day; trumpet (1 Cor 15:52) will signal His appearing. 2. Jesus Is Coming Soon Revelation 22:12 second declaration: “I am coming soon.” Unknown day/hour (Matthew 24:36): even angels and the Son do not know—only the Father. Purpose of secrecy: discourages idleness, encourages perpetual readiness (“If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready”). Believers must avoid divisive speculations over timelines (pre-trib, post-mill, etc.) and unite on the indisputable fact of His return. Signs of the Season (Spiritual “Contractions”) Increase in travel (Daniel 12:4) – from horseback distances to global air travel within hours. Explosion of knowledge (Daniel 12:4) – information now doubling every two months (AI age). Global live-stream capability (Revelation 11:9) – technology allows every tribe to witness the same event simultaneously. Movement toward a one-world economic system (Revelation 13:16-17) – digital IDs, CBDCs, global agencies foreshadow commerce control. Rise in Christian persecution (Matthew 24:9) – historic high in martyrdom; Nigerian believers cited. Mass apostasy (2 Thessalonians 2:3) – cultural “falling away,” seeker-sensitive drift, churches compromising truth. Rebirth of Israel as a nation (May 14 1948) – prophetic prerequisite fulfilled. Gospel preached to all nations (Matthew 24:14) – still in progress; fuels missionary urgency. Mount of Olives to split (Zechariah 14:3-5; Ezekiel 44) – geological fault line discovered; East Gate sealed by Suleiman yet destined to open at Christ’s arrival. 3. His Reward Is With Him Revelation 22:12 third declaration: He will “give to each person according to what they have done.” Distinction: Salvation is free; rewards are earned. Parable of the Talents: faithfulness versus laziness (Matthew 25). Ways rewards are stored: Enduring persecution for righteousness. Deeds done in secret for God’s glory. Generosity to the poor and powerless. Evangelism—bringing the lost to Christ. Goal: Hear “Well done, good and faithful servant,” not merely “Well, you’re done.” Delay of Christ’s coming explained (2 Peter 3:9): God’s patience secures one more day, one more soul. Major Lessons & Revelations Christ’s return is certain, imminent, and personal. God withholds the date to cultivate daily holiness and mission. Global, cultural, and technological shifts align with biblical prophecy, intensifying expectancy. Earthly choices carry eternal consequences; believers will experience varying degrees of heavenly reward. Practical Application Live in a continual state of readiness—daily prayer, repentance, and obedience. Refuse speculation that breeds division; focus on gospel proclamation and holy living. Cultivate courage: expect hatred, prepare for persecution, remain faithful. Invest in secret service, generosity, and global missions; give where return is eternal. Discern worldly systems—maintain allegiance to Christ over any governing power. Conclusion & Call to Response Pastor urges listeners: “Ready or not, here He comes.” Examine your life: Are you hiding from God or welcoming His appearing? Receive Christ’s salvation, join His mission, and run your race to win the eternal prize.