Player FM - Internet Radio Done Right
Checked 3d ago
Added seven years ago
Content provided by Bikers Church Cape Town. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Bikers Church Cape Town or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Player FM - Podcast App
Go offline with the Player FM app!
Go offline with the Player FM app!
Bikers Church Cape Town
Mark all (un)played …
Manage series 2313023
Content provided by Bikers Church Cape Town. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Bikers Church Cape Town or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
One Heart At A Time
…
continue reading
10 episodes
Mark all (un)played …
Manage series 2313023
Content provided by Bikers Church Cape Town. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Bikers Church Cape Town or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
One Heart At A Time
…
continue reading
10 episodes
सभी एपिसोड
×B
Bikers Church Cape Town
The Credibility Crises (Consistency will produce credibility) Credibility means: “The quality of being trusted and believed in”. By: Pastor George Lehman James 1:19-22 (Amp) - 19 Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offense and to get angry. 20 For man’s anger does not promote the righteousness God [wishes and requires]. 22 But be doers of the Word [obey the message], and not merely listeners to it, betraying yourselves [into deception by reasoning contrary to the Truth]. I want to focus on what James’s thought was important to address: Anger is just one letter short of danger. Ephesians 4:1(Amp) - I therefore, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to and beg you to walk (lead a life) worthy of the [divine] calling to which you have been called [with behavior that is a credit to the summons to God's service, If we are going to live a life that is credible, we will have to learn to act rather than REACT. Act out the word; not to react in a manor that destroys your testimony. They say the world needs more warm hearts and fewer hotheads. Story about Moses: The day begins like any other day but ends like no other day. For on this day Moses gives full vent to his anger and finds himself running for his life. Moses is part of a mistreated minority who were grievously mistreated. Not for doing something wrong but for being perceived as a possible threat. He grew up privileged in the palace of a king. He himself was spared such heartless treatment. However, year after year he sees his people suffer. One day he snaps. He is filled with rage as he sees one of his own being beaten. That day Moses kills an Egyptian and hides his body. The Pharaoh hears about it and Moses flees for his life from Egypt. Question: Have you ever become so angry to the point that you acted rashly? Looking at the life of Moses you can see the result of the power of anger... We all have a choice, whether to act wisely or to react foolishly. We must learn to keep our anger under control. Proverbs 29:11 (NIV) - He who being often reproved* hardens his neck shall suddenly be destroyed and that without remedy. *reproved = being spoken to about your conduct Injustice provokes many people to anger. Moses felt understandable anger over the injustice of his brothers. What he did got him into trouble. What he revealed is his true character and inability to fulfil the task ahead of him. God sent him into a desert place for 40 years to learn to do it God’s way. Acts 7:24-30 (Amp) - The story about Moses how he killed the Egyptian and fled into the desert What is the meaning of anger that James is talking about? Fire-fighters know the danger of letting a flame get out of control. They respond quickly because they are trained to. We need to train ourselves to respond quickly to the flame of anger before it consumes our life and destroys relationships. Proverbs 14:17 (NIV) - A quick tempered man does foolish things… Anger: A strong emotion of irritation or agitation* that occurs when a need or expectation is not met. *agitation = disturbed mental state (Agitasie) Proverbs 29:22 (NIV) - An angry man stirs up dissension* and a hot-tempered one commits many sins. *dissension= problems arising from difference of opinions Proverbs 22:24 (Amp) - Make no friendship with a man given to anger and with a wrathful man do not associate. What is the magnitude of anger? Anger, the word, covers many levels of emotions. Anger is like heat - it ranges from mild, controlled irritations to hot uncontrolled explosions. The bible uses many words to express the word ANGER We see this in the Book of Ephesians 4: Indignation[verontwaardiging]: It’s an anger provoked by something appearing unjust or unworthy. It’s often seen as justified. Mark10:14 (NIV) - …Not allowing the children to come to Jesus; when Jesus saw (it) He was indignant… Wrath[toorn/woede]: Is burning anger accompanied by a desire to avenge. Wrath often moves from the emotion of anger to an outward expression of anger. God expresses His wrath as divine judgement upon those who commit willful sin. Fury[ontplof]: Fury is fiery anger. It’s so fierce that it destroys common sense. Fury suggests a powerful force wanting to harm or destroy. The Jews were so angry with Peter and the apostles: Acts 5:33 (Amp) - When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. That’s why the Bible says in Proverbs 27:4 - Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming… Rage[woede/uitbars]: Rage is blazing anger. It involves loss of self-control, violence and temporary insanity. Many people after an outburst of rage, have remorse. “I can’t believe I did that”. Proverbs 19:3 (NIV) - A man’s own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the Lord. What are some of the misconceptions about anger? Do you view your anger as negative and sinful? If you hide your anger from others and even yourself, you’ll place yourself in bondage and false guilt. Is it a sin to be angry? NO! The initial feeling of anger is a God-given emotion. The way you respond or express these feelings determines whether you have allowed your anger to become sin. Ephesians 4:26-27 (Amp) - When angry, do not sin, do not ever let your wrath, your exasperation, your fury or indignation last until the sun goes down. Leave no (such) room or foothold for the devil (give no opportunity to him). How can I keep from feeling guilty when I’m angry? Anger is a signal that something is wrong- -like a red light on a dashboard). Stop, take action. Deal with what is causing your anger. Colossians 3:8 (Amp) - But now put away and rid yourselves (completely) of all these things: Anger, rage, bad feelings towards others, curses and slander, and foul-mouthed abuse and shameful utterance from your lips. It’s a choice!!! James is dealing with our credibility [geloofwaardigheid] How we conduct ourselves says a lot about what’s happening within us. What do you need God to help you with in the area of anger?…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
Faith involves *consistency. By Pastor George Lehman Consistency: It’s the jewel worth wearing; it’s the anchor worth securing; it’s the thread worth weaving; it’s a battle worth winning.” - Charles Swindoll *consistency = stability, to change you go forward not backwards, steadfast to the same principles Inconsistency – when your words and actions don’t align. James 1:18-25 (NIV) – 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of all he created. 19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for human anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. *Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. *Do what it says = Like Putting a password in your computer but never pressing enter, it will never open the programs. True faith is characterized by Knowing Christ. Sowing consistency True faith starts with knowing Christ as our Saviour. Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) – 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. Our best offer was… Ephesians 2:1-2 (NIV) – As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. You are not born a Christian - you must be born again. Then our true faith involves sowing consistency in our lives. This consistency manifests itself in our talk and our walk – our conversations and our conduct. This is when consistency begins to become a reality. If we are going to be a credible witness of Christ to the world… …we must not only genuinely know Him; we must also be consistent in living in a way that honours Him. Consistent in our talk. The mark of genuine Christianity is having one’s conversations consistent with biblical standards and Christian beliefs. James encouraged the church to listen more than we speak. Let your life do the talking. Proverbs 10:19 (NIV) – When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Jesus gave us this warning: Matthew 12:36-37 (NIV) – 36 But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” Genuine Christian living demands that we be cautious in our conversations and that our words are consistent with God’s word and character. James admonishes us: James 1:21 (NIV) – Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. Although God chooses us and calls us to Himself, there is something for us to do. We are to take off our old coats of sin and strip away all filth. You can’t keep playing in the mud when God has taken you out of it. James was writing to believers like you and me who already know Christ. Knowing and representing Jesus, we need to be consistent in our conversations as well as our conduct. James never held back to make his point. That if we are going to show the world a credible Christ then… …we must know Christ and sow consistency in our lives. Consistent in our walk. This is some of James’ most famous and most repeated words. “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.” Then comes a promise: James 1:25b -“He who is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does”. My desire is that I would rather see people “DO” one sermon than hear a hundred of them. Consistency is in the DOING not just in the HEARING. Like: How did you learn to ride a bike ? By reading a manual Watching others ride Listening to instructions about keeping your balance No! You’ll never learn to ride a bike until you get on it and do it over and over. James likened the one who only hears God’s word, but does not do it to… “A man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away and immediately forgets what kind of a man he was.” His message is all too clear. A mirror doesn’t lie – it tells the truth. The Bible is like a mirror, when we look into it, we see ourselves as we really are in God’s eyes. Not what we say we are or who others might think we are. Have you been looking in the mirror of the Bible lately? Not just a passing glance. See yourself in: Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) - 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting. James spoke of one who every day opens the Word and looks intently into it… The result is a “Blessed life in what he does”. E.g. We are not blessed in our stewardship and tithing by studying what the bible teaches us, but in doing it. He challenged us to: James 1:21 – Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. James must have had Jesus’ word in mind. Luke 11:28 (NLT) – Jesus replied, “But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” When we humbly receive God’s word in our hearts, it has a supernatural way of leading us to… “Be doers of the word and not hearers only”. True faith involves not just knowing Christ but also sowing consistency between what we read and hear and our conversations and our conduct Close: 2 Thessalonians 3:13 (Amp) – And as for you, brethren, do not become weary or lose heart in doing right [but continue in well doing without weakening].…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
Your Passion will lead the way. By Pastor George Lehman There is no passion to be found in playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living. Passion is a powerful emotion that drives us towards a deeper commitment to God. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58(Amp) – 57But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labour in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose]. Passion - there’s just so much in this word – even if you just whispered it. How do you know someone has Passion? You see it. What is passion? It’s the driving force behind ordinary people performing extraordinary tasks and achieving great accomplishments. Passion means: eagerness[entoesiasme], enthusiasm[ywer], fire, intensity, zeal[geesdrif], desire[brandende begeerte], hunger, craving[smag/verlange]. Our greatest example… Acts 1:3 (Amp) - To them also He showed Himself alive after His passion (His suffering in the garden and on the cross) by [a series of] many convincing demonstrations [unquestionable evidences and infallible proofs], appearing to them during forty days and talking [to them] about the things of the kingdom of God. Matthew 11:12(TPT) – From the moment John stepped onto the scene until now, the realm of heaven’s kingdom is bursting forth, and passionate people have taken hold of its power. Passion will move you… beyond yourself, (It draws you away from self-centred life) beyond compromise, (you do what the word says) beyond your shortcomings, beyond your failures (indifference; detachment, cold, disinterested) Passion gives you the desire, the fire so strong to succeed, that no force on earth can stop you! It’s passion that makes sacrifice easier and hardship bearable. It’s passion that will endure all persecution. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9 (Amp) - 7However, we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves. 8We are hedged in (pressed) on every side [troubled and oppressed in every way], but not cramped or crushed; we suffer embarrassments and are perplexed and unable to find a way out, but not driven to despair; 9We are pursued (persecuted and hard driven), but not deserted [to stand alone]; we are struck down to the ground, but never struck out and destroyed. Those who remain faithful and fruitful over the years learn to keep the fire of passion flaming! 2 Timothy 1:6 (Amp) - “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [[a]with those of the elders at your ordination]. Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes YOU come alive AND THEN you go and do that. Because what the world needs are people who have come alive with passion. God is looking for His passionate children. 2 Chronicles 16:9a (Amp) - For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show Himself strong in behalf of those whose hearts are ‘blameless toward Him’. Nothing great in this world has ever been accomplished without passion. God’s people are passion-carriers, looking for a place to manifest. Passion and power are inseparable[onafskeidelik] Matthew 11:12b (TPT) - Passionate people have taken hold of its power. We will never experience the full effect of the power of God UNLESS we get the Passion of God. Without passion you don’t have power. Without power you have nothing! We need to renew our passion daily! We need to be passionate about our Praying, reading our bible, Praising, Witnessing, Giving, Church attendance, our Love for each other. 1. Join a home cell Group: Connect with fellow believers who share your passion for God and explore Scripture together. Find a Spiritual Mentor: Seek guidance from a mature Christian who can encourage and challenge you in your faith. Attend Church Services: Participate in corporate worship, learning from sermons and fellowshipping with other believers. Serve Others: Engage in acts of service, demonstrating God's love and compassion to those around you. But mostly, passionate about our 1st love JESUS. On a scale of 1-10 where would you place yourself on the scale of passion for the things of God? What do you plan to do to increase that level? Passion sets goals. What is your goal for this year Passion will drive you towards fulfilling that goal. Let us ask God to ignite the fire of passion in our hearts.…
Faithfully yours… By Pastor Kobus Massyn I am Faithfully yours. Genesis 17: 1-2 1'When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; Walk [habitually] before Me [with integrity, knowing that you are always in My presence], and be blameless and complete [in obedience to Me]. 2“I will establish My covenant (everlasting promise) between Me and you, And I will multiply you exceedingly [through your descendants].” ' Faithfully your will be done. Romans 4:3 - ‘'For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed in (trusted, relied on) God , and it was credited to his account as righteousness (right living, right standing with God).” Romans 4:24 'but for our sake also - to whom righteousness will be credited, as those who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead' Faithfully yours alone. Romans 14:7 'None of us lives for himself [for his own benefit, but for the Lord], and none of us dies for himself [but for the Lord].' Romans 14:12 'So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. ' Romans 14:17-19 'for the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking [what one likes], but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For the one who serves Christ in this way [recognizing that food choice is secondary] is acceptable to God and is approved by men. So then, let us pursue [with enthusiasm] the things which make for peace and the building up of one another [things which lead to spiritual growth]. '…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
1 The effort of Faithfulness produces the promised fruit 1:12:14
1:12:14
Play Later
Play Later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:145-01-2025 The effort of Faithfulness produces the promised fruit By Pastor Kobus Massyn Matthew 25:21 (Amp) His master said to him, Well done, you upright (honorable, admirable) and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy (the delight, the blessedness) which your master enjoys. Psalms 25:21 'Let integrity and uprightness protect me, For I wait [expectantly] for You. ' True faithfullness is a caracter It is about the fruit.... Proverbs 13:17 (Amp) A wicked messenger falls into evil, but a faithful ambassador brings healing. Proverbs 20:6 (Amp) Many a man proclaims his own loving-kindness and goodness, but a faithful man who can find? Faithfullness is about hope and perseverance. Luke 16:10 (Amp) He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is faithful also in much, and he who is dishonest and unjust in a very little [thing] is dishonest and unjust also in much. Hebrews 3:2-6 (Amp) 2[See how] faithful He was to Him Who appointed Him [Apostle and High Priest], as Moses was also faithful in the whole house [of God]. 3Yet Jesus has been considered worthy of much greater honor and glory than Moses, just as the builder of a house has more honor than the house [itself]. 4For [of course] every house is built and furnished by someone, but the Builder of all things and the Furnisher [of the entire equipment of all things] is God. 5And Moses certainly was faithful in the administration of all God's house [but it was only] as a ministering servant. [In his entire ministry he was but] a testimony to the things which were to be spoken [the revelations to be given afterward in Christ]. 6But Christ (the Messiah) was faithful over His [own Father's] house as a Son [and Master of it]. And it is we who are [now members] of this house, if we hold fast and firm to the endour joyful and exultant confidence and sense of triumph in our hope [in Christ]. 1 Corinthians 4:2 Moreover, it is [essentially] required of stewards that a man should be found faithful [proving himself worthy of trust].…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
REMOVE ANY BARRIERS AS YOU FACE 2025 By Pastor George Lehman “It’s never too late to be what you might have been” - George Elliot Philippians 3:12 - Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own. I may not be where I want to be, but I’m not the person I use to be. Barriers = an obstacle that blocks advancement, circumstances that keep things apart. (Barriers = “hinderpaal”). Think seriously about this, what are the barriers you have in your life? Barriers that are preventing you from becoming what Jesus saved you for: - Your calling, your purpose, to be fruitful. 1 Timothy 4:8 - “Bodily exercise is alright, but spiritual exercise is much more important and is a tonic for all you do. So, exercise yourself spiritually and practice being better Christians – because that will help you not only now in this life, but the next life too”. The fitness industry is worth billions of dollars, and is growing due to a number of factors. The Global Wellness Institute estimates the wellness industry is worth $5.6 trillion. The global health and fitness club market was valued at $104.05 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow to $202.78 billion by 2030. It's amazing how much money, time, energy, commitment and dedication goes into bodily exercise, and how little goes into being Spiritually fit and healthy. What is Paul saying – “Keep spiritually fit by actively removing the barriers that are keeping you from being obedient/effective”. It’s not about achieving perfection over night; its more about subtraction. The question as you look back over the past year. In the last 12 months have you become, Committed Dedicated - Is the same fire still burning in you? Obedient Fruitful - Is there real evidence of the fruit of the Spirit? Gone deeper Have you grown in your knowledge of Jesus? I want us to look at …… “The other side of God”. Prophetic Word for His church. Isaiah 45:17-19 (Amp) - “17 But Israel shall be saved by the Lord with an everlasting salvation; you shall not be put to shame or confounded to all eternity. 18 For thus says the Lord—Who created the heavens, God Himself, who formed the earth and made it, Who established it and did not create it to be a worthless waste; He formed it to be inhabited—I am the Lord, and there is no one else. 19 I have not spoken in secret, in a corner of the land of darkness; I did not call the descendants of Jacob [to a fruitless service], saying, Seek Me for nothing [but I promised them a just reward]. I, the Lord, speak righteousness (the truth—trustworthy, straightforward correspondence between deeds and words); I declare things that are right. Here is the cross reference – Hebrews 5:8-9 (Amp) -“8 Although He was a Son, He learned [active, special] obedience through what He suffered 2 Timothy 3:12 – All who want to live a devoted life will suffer persecution. 9 And, [His completed experience] making Him perfectly [equipped], He became the Author and Source of eternal salvation to all those who give heed and obey Him, Something God revealed to me – when we get saved, we cross the border FROM: – darkness to light – Death to life – religion to a relationship “Here is the problem” – many hang around the border post. We read so many scriptures and hear sermons about The HOW TO. But still do not fully put the word into practice. Walk with me through scripture and see God’s heart. James 4:17 - “So, any person who know what is right to do (what is obedient) but does not do it (disobedience to it) to him it is sin”. Matthew 21:28-31 - “28 What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He came to the first and said, Son, go and work today in the vineyard. 29 And he answered, I will not; but afterward he changed his mind and went. 30 Then the man came to the second and said the same [thing]. And he replied, I will [go], sir; but he did not go. 31 Which of the two did the will of the father? They replied, The first one. Jesus said to them, Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the harlots will get into the kingdom of heaven before you. Obedience vs. Disobedience. God is pleased with submission that leads to true obedience. Matthew 22:14 - “For many are called but few are chosen”. Means – Called = to be a Saint (child of God) Chosen = willing to surrender self – the thing that blocks your advancement. Circumstances that keep things apart. But have you chosen the deeper walk with Jesus – deeper, higher, more fruitful, deny self, take up the Cross – Growing in Grace. Moving away from the border post going further, and deeper into the things of God? John 14:24 - “Anyone who does not (really) love me does not observe and obey my teachings”. (Church of Ephesians). Revelation 2:4 - “But I have this one charge to make against you, that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first (you have deserted Me, your first love)”. You see my friend; our relationship is more than just “Praying a sinner’s prayer” –That’s only the start, we must work at removing the barriers that are blocking your progress The church has neglected or placed no emphasis on keeping His commands. Acts 10:34-35 - “34Peter says God is no respecter of people – God shows no partiality. 35But in every nation he who venerates and has a reverential fear for God, treating Him with worshipful obedience and living uprightly is acceptable to Him and sure of being received and welcomed (by Him)”. Hebrews 2:2-3, Jesus said: - “Those who will be in heaven are those who confess and do the will of God”. It is not a once off Sunday decision or a New Years decision; it is a lifetime decision, summed up in one word – Obedience! 1 Peter 1:14 (Amp) - “[Live] as children of obedience [to God]; do not conform yourselves to the evil desires [that governed you] in your former ignorance [when you did not know the requirements of the Gospel]. What barriers are blocking your obedience? Simple things like: Prayerless Reading God’s word Sharing your faith Slack on church attendance Carrying grudges / unforgiveness Anger issues Gossip Telling lies…
I believe in I AM by Pastor Kobus Massyn Exodus 3:14 (Amp) – And God said to Moses, I AM Who I Am and What I Am, and I Will Be What I will Be; and He said, You shall say this to the Israelites: I Am has sent me to you! John 9:5 (Amp) – As long as I am in the world, I am the world’s Light. John 14:28 (Amp) – You heard Me tell you, I am going away and I am coming [back] to you. If you [really] loved Me, you would have been glad, because I am going to the Father; for the Father is greater and mightier than I am. 2 Corinthians 11:6 (Amp) – But even if [I am] unskilled in speaking, yet [I am] not [unskilled] in knowledge [ I know what I am talking about]; we have made this evident to you in all things. 2 Corinthians 12:18 (Amp) – [Actually], I urged Titus [to go], and I sent the brother with [him]. Did Titus overreach or take advantage of you [in anything]? Did he and I not act in the same spirit? Did we not [take the] same steps? 2 Corinthians 12:10 (Amp) - So for the sake of Christ, I am well pleased and take pleasure in infirmities, insults, hardships, persecutions, perplexities and distresses; for when I am weak [in human strength], then am I [truly] strong (able, powerful in divine strength).…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
Our indescribable gift Pastor George Lehman 25 December – the day or date is not important? What is important is that it did happen. Psalm 118:22-24 - 22The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; 23the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. My scripture this morning is 2 Corinthians 9:15 (NIV). It’s a short verse – only 8 words long. Paul says: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” [Maar God sy dank vir sy onuitspreeklike gawe] Most of us have survived the shopping experience. Choosing Christmas gifts for those special people in our lives. Let me ask you: “have you ever received an “indescribable gift?” I thought about this - what kind of gift would it have to be, to be called “indescribable”? If you opened it, what would you say? Wow, it’s beautiful, something you always wanted. Whatever the gift, what would make it an indescribable gift? There are many life tales of great gifts given to people: Mark Shuttleworth gave each one of his employees R1 Million. When he sold his company Joan Linden, a radio show host, featured some gift ideas: $300 000 for a gold and silver toilet seat inlaid with precious stones (R5.7 Million). “You could be King of your Castle on this seat”. $18 000 frisbee (R342000) $10 000 Yo-yo (R190000) $12 000 mouse trap (R228000) $27 000 pair of sunglasses (R513000) and then for grand parentsto buy for the new baby - $28 000 dummy (R532 000) boats and cars valued at billions of rand. I think these gifts stagger our imagination – don’t they? But all these human gifts are very describable by someone. Paul at first talking about gifts in the passage of scripture in 2 Cor 9 – he is discussing human gifts. He commends them for their eagerness to help and for their generosity for giving so abundantly. If you sow sparingly, you will reap sparingly. If you sow generously, you will reap generously. The attention then goes to God’s gift of sending Jesus. Paul has no words to describe this. All he says is: “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” A gift beyond description. So many people, poets, musicians, painters and sculptors have tried to bring tribute and express this indescribable gift the person Jesus, the gift of God’s love. Why does Paul call Jesus “INDESCRIBABLE”? I think there are at least 4 reasons I’m not trying to describe it, because I can’t. But I want to stir your heart to focus afresh on “God’s gift to you”. #1 Because of His nature How do you describe Jesus? What words would you choose? How do you describe God in flesh – reaching out to the hurting masses of humanity and being the 100% cure? John 10:10 (AMP) – The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). “God’s love is not logical. It is unimaginable that God descended in His Son to bring salvation to ungrateful people. Jesus became what we are in order to make us what He is.” Isaiah said: He will be called Emmanuel (God with us); Paul said: We can’t describe the “indescribable” gift The sms making its rounds lately reads as follows: He had no servants – yet they called Him MASTER No degrees – yet they called Him TEACHER No medicine – yet they called Him HEALER No army – yet the King’s FEARED Him He won no military battles – yet He CONQUERED the world He committed no crime – yet they CRUCIFIED Him He was buried – yet He ROSE AND LIVES TODAY! The birth of Jesus brought God to man, BUT it took the cross of Jesus Christ to bring man to God. He is indescribable! #2 Because of His purpose in coming to earth What is the Christmas celebration [Kersfees vieringe] about after all? Not decorated trees, not presents, not holidays, not some overweight dude wearing red either. OUR GREATEST NEED: for HIS coming If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator; If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist; If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist; If our greatest need had been pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer; The Answer is: Our greatest needwas forgiveness, so God sent us a Saviour – to bring hope to a lost, sinful world. God’s gift is indescribable! #3 Because of the grace by which Jesus is given We buy gifts for people we know – like our wife and kids because it’s kind of the right thing to do. Normally if people give us a gift, we feel obliged to give one back. We feel we must help the needy, the poor, because we have an obligation to them. This is what makes God so special – He doesn’t owe us anything, in fact: Romans 5:8 (NIV) - But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We deserved the WORST, but we got the BEST. A gift is not a gift if you pay for it – it’s free by GRACE. Lastly, it’s indescribable! #4 Because of His overwhelming [oorweldigende] effect on us The gifts you got for Christmas may be wonderful and you may be very thankful, BUT tomorrow you will still be the same – it will not change you. The Bible teaches that when we accept Jesus Christ, “The indescribable gift”, we can NEVER be the same again. Our sins are forgiven and forgotten. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV) - “We’re a brand-new person.” Let us thank God for this season as we celebrate “His indescribable gift”, JESUS, to a lost world. He became like us– that we might become like Him. He was rejected– that we might be accepted. He was condemned– that we might be forgiven. He was punished– that we might be pardoned. He suffered– that we might be strengthened. He was whipped– that we might be healed. He was hated– that we might be loved. He was crucified– that we might be justified. He was tortured– that we might be comforted. He died– that we might live. He went to hell– that we might go to Heaven. He endured what we deserved– that we might enjoy what only He deserves.…
B
Bikers Church Cape Town
Thanksgiving - this is the season Pastor George Lehman Thanksgiving is not just a December thing. It’s a lifetime attitude. Luke 2:10 – But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will come to all the people. It isn’t what you have in your pocket that makes you thankful, but what you have in your heart. If Thankfulness was determined by what’s in our pockets most of us would have good reason to be unthankful. We all understand we need to be thankful. How many times do we really express it? Once in a while or is it constant. A thankful heart is far more important to your experience of life than most people realize. It puts you in a great frame of mind. Most people know they should be thankful, but do not put a premium on proactively cultivating a thankful heart. The optimist says, “the cup is half full”. The pessimist says, “the cup is half empty”. The thankful child of God says, “my cup runneth over”. - Go for it!! Tonight, we come to express our thankfulness to our Heavenly FATHER. Our favorite attitude should be gratitude [dankbaarheid]. (A mother was reading from a book of Bible stories to her little daughter Lucy when she came to a page showing Christians being fed to the lions. The little girl began to whimper. Mom said, “It’s all right honey, I’m sure they’re all going to heaven.” The little girl answered, “But Mommy, that little lion in the corner doesn’t have a Christian!” I think it’s safe to say that Lucy missed the point. (Hope you don’t miss the point of this sermon…) An unthankful heart will produce negative issues in your life. I personally have rarely seen a happy ungrateful person. Romans 1:21 says, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” (Clearly being thankful is on Gods heart for mankind - how much more for His children) If you’re not thankful to God for what happens in your life, then, who takes the credit? You do! You become puffed up, arrogant, and vain. You become stuck on yourself. That kind of focus just darkens your heart, creates a foolish heart, and keeps your attention on things you have done and achieved. One of the surest and best ways to remain positive and have a great attitude is to express gratitude and appreciation. Thankfulness to God should be as regular as our heartbeat. They say God as 2 dwellings - one in Heaven and the other in a THANKFUL heart. Psalm 95:2 says, “Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving.” Experiencing the presence of God requires that you be a thankful person. We see it again in Psalm 100:4 - “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving.” (Not complaining, murmuring or grumbling) Ephesians 5:20 (Amp) - At all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father. Philippians 4:6 says, Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; For you to have answered prayer, you need to pray out of a heart of thanksgiving. Many Christians pray out of a heart of desperation instead of a grateful heart. Thankfulness is God’s will for our lives. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (Amp) - Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]. Colossians 3:15 (Amp) - And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them” - JFK Quotes: You cannot be a testifier until you’ve been through the test of fire. Of one thing you should be thankful, only you and God have all the facts about yourself. Real happiness comes when we stop murmuring and complaining about the troubles we have and begin to offer thankfulness for all the troubles we don’t have. Therefore, we want Gods church, His body, to come give thanks and deep appreciation for what He has done. So, we want to bring as the following scripture: Hebrews 13:15-16 (NIV) - Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise-the fruit of lips that confess His name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. Heaven is a place where we will be thankful for: Having received what, we did not deserve; and For not receiving what we did deserve. Psalm 106:1 (Amp) – Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!) O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!…
Courage to live by By: Pastor George Lehman “I will go anywhere, as long as it’s forward” – David Livingstone. (There is no time to get sidetracked) Courage has been used in the Bible more than 114 times. Why the need to speak on courage? I believe it’s been on God’s heart from the beginning of mankind and it’s relevant for us here tonight. (God would never call us to live courageously if it were not possible) Scripture is full of God’s instruction to live a life of courage. Courage is activated when I’m plugged into God. Joshua 1:6 (Amp) – Be* strong (confident) and of good courage, for you shall cause these people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. “BE" is used to create the continuous form not stopping, not just for a day but every day. It’s a lifestyle word. In our day and age there are so many things that seem to be attacking our lives. Challenges to give up to sin and give in to temptations. I don’t think there is anyone here right now who is not: Going through one or other issue in life. Just come through something. Just about to go through some or other issue. I can tell you, it’s certainly different being a Christian now than it was 20 or 30 years ago. There is a great onslaught on God’s people. The good news is: The anointing, power and ability to walk courageously is still the same and is available today as it was 7000 years ago. The challenges of this time and age when sin is no longer called sin, standards are lowered and below the average is the norm. Mans opinions take the place of God’s word. People serve God by their own interpretations. Christians are not faithful, and any old lifestyle will do. The truth is: Those disciples that are serious about their relationship with God carry a bigger responsibility than those of a couple of years ago. The world is following its own direction. “Eternity, going to heaven is a choice. Hell is guaranteed”. We need to be alert to what’s going on around us. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (Amp) - But understand this, that in the last days will come (set in) perilous times of great stress and trouble [hard to deal with and hard to bear]. 2For people will be lovers of self and [utterly] self-centered, lovers of money and aroused by an inordinate [greedy] desire for wealth, proud and arrogant and contemptuous boasters. They will be abusive (blasphemous, scoffing), disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy and profane. 3[They will be] without natural [human] affection (callous and inhuman) relentless (admitting of no truce or appeasement); [they will be] slanderers (false accusers, troublemakers), in temperate and loose in morals and conduct, uncontrolled and fierce, haters of good. 4[They will be] treacherous [betrayers], rash, [and] inflated with self-conceit. [They will be] lovers of sensual pleasures and vain amusements more than and rather than lovers of God. 5For [although] they hold a form of piety (true religion), they deny and reject and are strangers to the power of it [their conduct belies the genuineness of their profession]. Avoid [all] such people [turn away from them]. As God gave this message to Moses about Joshua who would take Israel on the next leg of the journey: Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV) - Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. So, we draw comfort and courage from this word for us, for now. Philippians 4:13 (NIV) - I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. COURAGE; Means: Readiness to face and capacity to endure danger or difficulty. Ability to control or suppress fear. The Bible defines “Courage” as the willingness to act in obedience to God, relying on His strength and guidance. You’re not finished when you are defeated. You’re finished when you quit. People may think you’re finished, but don’t quit on God because He will never quit on you. 1 Chronicles 19:13 (NKJV) - Be of good courage and let us be strong for our people, and for the cities of our God. And may the Lord do what is good in His sight. Remember Numbers 13:18-20 when Moses sent out 12 men to check out the “Promised Land”. They were not asked to draw conclusions. You see, God had already promised and guaranteed the victory. 10 men give an accurate report from a heart of discouragement. 2 men (Joshua and Caleb) speak from a heart of courage. Courage tells us we believe what God says, NOT what our feelings and circumstances tell us. When you make up your mind to live courageously, courage will find a way to do something, not a way not to do it. James 1:22-25 (Msg) – 22-24Don't fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don't act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who they are, what they look like. 25But whoever catches a glimpse of the revealed counsel of God—the free life!—even out of the corner of his eye, and sticks with it, is no distracted scatterbrain but a man or woman of action. That person will find delight and affirmation in the action. Winston Churchill’s famous speech at the Harrow School in 1941: He said: “Never give in, never give in; Never, never, never. In nothing great or small, large or petty. Never give in”. Isaiah 41:3 (NKJV) - For I, the Lord your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, “Fear not, I will help you”. When you decide to live by courage, it will conquer the: Temptation to give up. Maintain a Godly pure lifestyle. You will remain faithful no matter what. You’ll change and grow into the person God called you to be. Courage helps you to be transparent; to want to be more like Jesus. Make a decision to leave church tonight and live courageously tomorrow, Will take courage to back up that decision and to see it through. When Monday comes, that’s the time to say: “I courageously ‘Fight the good fight of the faith’”. 1 Corinthians 16:13 (NIV) - Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Are you willing to live by courage? God is interested in your answer!!…
Welcome to Player FM!
Player FM is scanning the web for high-quality podcasts for you to enjoy right now. It's the best podcast app and works on Android, iPhone, and the web. Signup to sync subscriptions across devices.