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Scripture References Genesis 1:29 Deuteronomy 6 Deuteronomy 8 Psalm 119:11 Ezekiel Matthew 4 Matthew 6:13 Matthew 24:35 Luke 4 Romans 6 Ephesians 6:10-17 Hebrews 5:12 1 John 2:16 1 John 4:1 Introduction Week 3 of the “Boot Camp: Training for Team Jesus” series. Focus: a true disciple becomes a man or woman of the Word and of prayer. Pastor warns that drowning people don’t need Greek word studies on “life-jacket”; they need someone to throw the jacket—today’s sermon is that practical life-jacket. Special assignment: text “BIBLE” to 20411 for a podcast deep-dive on reading, studying, and teaching Scripture to families. Key Points / Exposition 1. You Have an Enemy Satan’s profile: once a chief angel (Ezekiel), now the devil/diabolos (slanderer), tempter (Matthew 4). His mission: steal, kill, destroy. Typical errors: some ignore him; others open themselves to every spirit (occult, crystals, tarot). 1 John 4:1 commands discernment. Attack timing: when you are alone, isolated, hungry, tired (Luke 4). Three predictable “lures” (1 John 2:16): Lust of the flesh – over-desire to feel something (food, alcohol, sex, drugs). Lust of the eyes – over-desire to have something (materialism, envy). Pride of life – over-desire to be something (status, applause). Homework: “If you were the devil, how would you take you out?” Identify your most vulnerable lure. 2. The Word of God—Our Only Offensive Weapon Armour of God (Ephesians 6:10-17): every piece is defensive except “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Jesus’ model (Luke 4): three temptations, three answers—“It is written….” (quotes Deuteronomy 6 & 8). Scripture defeats Satan. Nature of Scripture: 66 books, 40 writers, one divine Author whose words “will never pass away” (Matthew 24:35). Historic resilience: French Huguenots, Tyndale’s English Bible, Voltaire’s failed prediction—“Pound away, you evil hands; the hammer breaks, the anvil stands.” 3. Grow Up and Feed Yourself Psalm 119:11—hide the Word in your heart to resist sin. Hebrews 5:12 rebuke: believers should mature from milk to solid food; spiritual “big babies” rely only on Sunday spoon-feeding. Especially to men/husbands: God made you the head—pick up the sword and fight for your family. 4. Lake Pointe Tools for Bible Saturation Weekly expository sermons. “Live Free” podcast: deeper dive every Monday (text BIBLE to 20411). “Rooted”—10-week discipleship boot camp teaching how to handle Scripture. Lake Pointe App: tap “Daily” icon for a one-chapter-a-day reading plan synced to the sermons (Mon-Fri). Major Lessons & Revelations Satan is beatable because he’s predictable; Scripture is sufficient. For every action of the Holy Spirit, expect an opposite reaction from unholy spirits. Once Bible intake reaches 4+ days a week, measurable life transformation follows (study: +228% evangelism, -50% anxiety, etc.). God applauds progress, not perfection—when you stumble, He still says, “You’re doing it!” Practical Application Commit to at least four days of personal Bible reading this week (use the app or any plan). Memorize one verse that counters your primary temptation. Fathers/husbands: schedule a family Scripture time; lead the reading and prayer. Register for the next Rooted session. Replace occult or “spiritual” curiosities with sound Bible study; destroy any items tied to spiritism. Share the “Live Free” podcast with spouse, kids, or small-group friends and discuss. Conclusion & Call to Response The enemy is real, but the Word is stronger. Pick up your sword—fight for your soul, your spouse, your children, your legacy. Decide today to become a person of Scripture and prayer, and watch God reshape your lineage. ...

Scripture References Luke 3:1–22 Malachi 4:5-6 Romans 6:3-4 Matthew 3:13-15 Matthew 28:19 1 Corinthians 12:13 Romans 8:9 Luke 4:1, 14 Luke 10:21 Isaiah 61:1-2 John 20:19-22 Acts 1:4-5 Ephesians 5:18 Acts 2:38 Acts 8:12-17 Acts 19:1-6 John 3:16 Introduction Series: “Boot Camp – Training for Team Jesus.” Year-long theme: “I am a disciple.” Congregation using a “Field Guide” to pray over one specific next-step in discipleship. Today’s focus: a disciple is “baptized in water and Spirit.” Humorous opening: video of young Caroline taking medicine, mimicking pastor’s salvation invitation count-down—illustrates responding in obedience. Setting: Luke 3 and the ministry of John the Baptizer—eccentric, fearless forerunner who prepared Israel for Messiah after 400 years of prophetic silence. Key Points / Exposition 1. A Disciple Must Be Baptized in Water Baptism = commanded, not suggested; public declaration of new association with Christ. Greek baptizō: dip, dunk, submerge. Everyday word (even used in 1st-century pickle recipes) ⇒ full immersion, not sprinkling. Symbolism: Romans 6 – “dead, buried, raised.” Down into the water = united with Christ’s death; raised = newness of life. Baptism does not save; it visibly testifies to an already-existing, personal faith (wedding-ring analogy). Infant baptism: noble parental intent, but New Testament pattern is believer’s baptism—an expression of the individual’s own faith. Jesus’ example (Matthew 3): though sinless, He was baptized “to fulfill all righteousness.” If He submitted, His disciples must. Obedience issue, not preference: hiding faith is as unthinkable as refusing a wedding ring after proposing. 2. A Disciple Needs to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit At Jesus’ baptism: heavens open, Spirit descends and “remains,” Father affirms Son—model for Spirit-filled life. Effects of Spirit-filling: Power for holiness. Experiential assurance of the Father’s love. Power for supernatural ministry. Jesus ministered “full of,” “led by,” “in the power of,” and “rejoicing in” the Spirit (Luke 4; Luke 10:21) — if He needed the Spirit, we certainly do. Three distinct but interconnected works seen in Scripture: Salvation – Spirit baptizes us into Christ (1 Cor 12:13). Water Baptism – a disciple baptizes us in obedience (Matt 28:19). Spirit Filling – Jesus baptizes/fills us with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:16; Acts 1:4-5). Continuous need: Ephesians 5:18 commands already-saved believers to “be filled” (present tense, ongoing). Biblical pattern illustrated: Acts 2:38 – repent (salvation), be baptized, receive the Spirit. Acts 8:12-17 – believed, baptized, then apostles lay hands to receive the Spirit. Acts 19:1-6 – disciples who had believed are re-baptized in Jesus’ name and then receive the Spirit through Paul’s hands. Pickle illustration: baptizō implies prolonged immersion producing total change—believers need to be “pickled” in the Spirit, not merely dipped. Major Lessons & Revelations Public, obedient identification with Christ (water) and experiential empowerment by Christ (Spirit) are both normative for disciples. Salvation is personal; God saves first names, not last names. Spiritual power is not optional: the people of God need the Spirit of God to live for the glory of God. The courage to go public for Jesus must surpass the world’s boldness in flaunting sin. Practical Application Haven’t been baptized post-conversion? Text “LIFE” to 20411 today and schedule baptism. Prepare hearts for January 21 Prayer & Worship Night—ask daily: “Holy Spirit, if I’m missing anything, I want all You have.” Use the Field Guide: pray for the single next step Jesus is asking in your discipleship journey. Reject fear of man; proclaim faith openly at work, school, online. Continually ask for fresh filling—repent of known sin, worship, receive prayer, and step out in ministry. Conclusion & Call to Response The world fearlessly parades wickedness; therefore disciples must courageously declare allegiance through water baptism and Spirit-empowered living. If you need baptism, act today. If you are dry, seek the Spirit’s fullness—salvation, baptism, and Spirit filling are the normal Christian life. ...

Scripture References John 19:28-30 Genesis 3:15 Ephesians 2:8-9 1 John 4:10 1 John 1:5-10 1 John 2:1-2 Galatians 2:16 Romans 6:23 Revelation 12:10 Introduction Pastor Josh launches a new six-week series, “Boot Camp: Training for Team Jesus,” designed to raise—not lower—the bar of discipleship. Sets a military tone with an illustration of a blunt Marine recruiter: people long for a mission worth living and dying for. Lake Pointe’s vision: not crowds, but disciples who “come die with Jesus.” 2025 ministry recap: 11 church plants (total 90), 3,854 finished Rooted, 3,131 baptisms, new Sunnyvale campus (881 at Christmas). 2026 outlook: Roy City campus, two more in process. Practical tools distributed: “Field Guide,” tear-off “One More” evangelism card, 2026 church-family calendar, new Lake Pointe app with Bible-reading plan and Lift Read podcast. Series challenge: Each person asks, “What is my next step of obedience?"—then does it. Key Points / Exposition 1. “It Is Finished” — What Was Finished Jesus’ final word (Greek: Tetelestai) on the cross (John 19:30) is the most important word in Scripture. Everyday Greek usages illuminate its meaning: Business: written on receipts—“debt paid in full.” Judicial: inscribed on a criminal’s record—“sentence fully served.” Military: battle cry of victory—“enemy defeated.” At Calvary: PAYMENT: Christ settled humanity’s sin-debt completely (1 Jn 4:10; propitiation). PENALTY: Divine justice fully satisfied—no double jeopardy for sin. POWER: Serpent-crusher of Genesis 3:15 wins the cosmic war; victory imputed to those who didn’t fight. 2. “It Is Finished” — The Ongoing Reality Discipleship begins with trusting, not trying; otherwise the gospel degrades into self-help. Perfect-tense verb: a past, completed act with abiding results. Nothing can alter the “state of affairs.” Common distortions: “It was finished” — God loved me then, but I blew it. “It’s kind of finished” — grace starts salvation; works keep it (official Catholic position refuted by Gal 2:16). “It will be finished” — God will love a future, improved version of me. Biblical truth: right now, it is finished. Ephesians 2:8-9 anchors salvation by grace through faith alone. Courtroom imagery (1 Jn 1–2): Satan = prosecuting attorney (Rev 12:10), citing sin and demanding death (Rom 6:23). Jesus = defense attorney/advocate (1 Jn 2:1-2), presenting nail-scarred hands as proof that punishment already fell; to condemn again would be unjust. Walking in the light (1 Jn 1:5-10): not perfection but nothing hidden—confession, honesty, and fellowship. 3. Identity Formed by Finished Work Only Jesus defines you; you are not your sin, success, orientation, addiction, divorce, abortion, or Instagram likes. Extensive biblical identity declarations were read aloud (e.g., light of the world, temple of the Spirit, chosen race, saint, etc.), reinforcing that believers live under a banner reading “Paid in Full.” Major Lessons & Revelations True discipleship grows from the bedrock of Christ’s completed work; we obey from acceptance, not for acceptance. God’s justice now requires Him to forgive believers because their sin has already been punished in Christ. The enemy cannot steal salvation, so he tries to rob believers of enjoying it through accusations and shame. Mission clarity: Lake Pointe exists to make disciples who embrace the cross, pursue one more soul, and live on the Word of God. Practical Application Carry the “Field Guide” and a physical Bible each week; rustle pages together. Tear off “One More” card: write the person closest to you yet farthest from God; place it privately (mirror, dashboard) and pray daily for gospel opportunities. Sync to the church calendar—prioritize family rhythms around corporate prayer (Jan 21 Night of Prayer & Worship) and discipleship environments (Rooted, groups). Download the new Lake Pointe app: follow daily one-chapter Bible plan, watch sermons, listen to Lift Read for deeper study. Continually ask, “What is my next step of obedience?” and act on it rather than trying to tackle everything at once. When you sin, run to the Father, not away; confess, receive forgiveness, walk in the light. Conclusion & Call to Response • Discipleship starts at the cross: Tetelestai. Receive, then follow. • Pastor invited anyone lacking assurance to whisper a prayer of surrender—“God, I’m Yours; the cross counts for me”—marking a new lineage and legacy. • Church prayed for fresh awareness of grace and courage to abide in Christ throughout 2026. ...

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 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 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 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.

Introduction Guest preacher: Ernest Smith, Lead Pastor of Front Range Church (Castle Rock, CO), a Lake Pointe church-plant (2013). Ernest recounts Lake Pointe’s partnership, highlighting the Strategic Launch Network and personal support from Pastors Steve & Josh. Sets the stage by confessing a lifelong struggle with comparison and the cultural pressure to “be successful.” Central tension: God’s definition of success vs. our drive for status, wealth, and control. How God re-defines achievement through Naaman’s healing and our own obedience. ...