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- Sacrificial Living Pt. 5: The Generosity of Giving | Bridgeway
< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 5: The Generosity of Giving Pastor Nate Brosher Feb 9, 2025 Acts 20:34-35 ESV - 34 You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities and to those who were with me. 35 In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' 1. Is Generosity a part of our discipleship / apprenticeship? ■ Blessed – Makarios – Happy, fortunate, well off. Why aren’t we giving? Matthew 6:19-21 NLT - 19 "Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. “In Heaven” the Hebrew language means, “In God.” What are we investing into? Matthew 6:22-24 NLT - 22 "Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. 2. Abundance or Scarcity Mindset Abundance Mindset – God as Father/Provider, Gratitude, Generosity. Genesis 1:29 NLT - 29 Then God said, "Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food. Jesus says, “When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light.” ■ What are your eyes fixated on? Scarcity Mindset – Lacking, scarce resources, distorted, greed, living with fear. Jesus said, but when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 3. We can’t serve two masters. Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. KJV – mammon – mamonas – treasure, riches (where it is personified and opposed to God.) Are we allowing Greed to control us? 2Corinthians 8:1-2, 7-9 NLT - 1 Now I want you to know, dear brothers and sisters, what God in his kindness has done through the churches in Macedonia. 2 They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. ... 7 Since you excel in so many ways--in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us--I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving. 8 I am not commanding you to do this. But I am testing how genuine your love is by comparing it with the eagerness of the other churches. 9 You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich. 2Corinthians 9:6-8 NLT - 6 Remember this--a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need, and plenty left over to share with others. Proverbs 22:8-9 NLT - 8 Those who plant injustice will harvest disaster, and their reign of terror will come to an end. 9 Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor. God will generously provide all you need! ■ Gracious giving is an act of worship and a reflection of love for God and His people. ■ Christians should give sacrificially, generously, and cheerfully. ■ Christians should give proportionally, using their abundance to meet the needs of others. Proverbs 19:17 says, If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD — and he will repay you! Previous Next
- Sacrificial Living Pt. 6: Lord Prepare Me | Bridgeway
< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 6: Lord Prepare Me Pastor Nate Brosher Feb 23, 2025 Exodus 25:8-9 NLT - 8 "Have the people of Israel build me a holy sanctuary so I can live among them. 9 You must build this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the pattern I will show you. The Tabernacle / Sanctuary The Outer Court - The Gate - The Bronze Altar - Laver/Bronze Basin Inside the Court of the tabernacle - The Table of Shewbread - The Golden Lampstand/Menorah - Altar of Incense The Holy of Holies - The Veil - The Ark of the Covenant Sanctuary – miqdāš – A consecrated place, sacred, holy place. The word "sanctuary" comes from the Latin word for "holy". ■ Foreshadow of Jesus Matthew 27:50-52 NLT - 50 Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit. 51 At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, 52 and tombs opened. The bodies of many godly men and women who had died were raised from the dead. John 19:30 ESV - 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, "It is finished," and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. Why is this so important? ■ Lord prepare me to be a sanctuary. ■ How do I become a living sanctuary? 1Timothy 4:4-5 NIV - 4 For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, 5 because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 1Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT - 19 Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So, you must honor God with your body. Previous Next
- Letters from Paul Series Pt. 8: What’s Your Motive | Bridgeway
< Back Letters from Paul Series Pt. 8: What’s Your Motive Pastor Nate Brosher Sep 18, 2024 Philippians 1:12-19 NLT - 12 And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. 13 For everyone here, including the whole palace guard, knows that I am in chains because of Christ. 14 And because of my imprisonment, most of the believers here have gained confidence and boldly speak God's message without fear. 15 It's true that some are preaching out of jealousy and rivalry. But others preach about Christ with pure motives. 16 They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News. 17 Those others do not have pure motives as they preach about Christ. They preach with selfish ambition, not sincerely, intending to make my chains more painful to me. 18 But that doesn't matter. Whether their motives are false or genuine, the message about Christ is being preached either way, so I rejoice. And I will continue to rejoice. 19 For I know that as you pray for me and the Spirit of Jesus Christ helps me, this will lead to my deliverance. 1. Perspective Verse 12; And I want you to know, my dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. How many of us have cursed our storm or our valley? We must evaluate our attitude or point of view. Philippians 1:20-24 NLT - 20 For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. 21 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. 22 But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So, I really don't know which is better. 23 I'm torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. 24 But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live. 2. Two Desires. Paul said, “I’m torn between two desires.” Colossians 3:2 ESV - “Set your mind on things above, not on the things that are on earth”. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr. a physician and writer made this statement; “Some people are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good.” Philippians 1:27-30 NLT - 27 Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News. 28 Don't be intimidated in any way by your enemies. This will be a sign to them that they are going to be destroyed, but that you are going to be saved, even by God himself. 29 For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. 30 We are in this struggle together. You have seen my struggle in the past, and you know that I am still in the midst of it. 3. Suffering is temporary. “Don’t be intimidated in any way by your enemies.” What is our response to adversity or opposition? Run from it or try to avoid it. Embrace it and fight through it. Give up and throw in the towel. Verse 29; For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him. Suffer – paschō - In a good sense, to be well off, in good case. In a bad sense, to suffer sadly, be in a bad plight. Previous Next
- Distractions: Overcoming Fear | Bridgeway
< Back Distractions: Overcoming Fear Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 28, 2024 Distractions: Overcoming Fear Joshua 1:8-9 NLT 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. 1. Fear will try to cripple your Faith. Psalms 23:4 ESV 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalms 27:1 NKJV 1 The LORD [is] my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD [is] the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? Psalms 46:1-2 NLT 1 God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. 2 So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. The word “Fear Not” is presented in the KJV 331 times in 144 verses. The word “Fear” is presented 400 times in 385 verses. (NLT 275, ESV 353, NKJV 367) 2. We are NOT to live in Fear! 2 Timothy 1:7 NLT 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. The enemy creates things in our imaginations, and we expand those in our minds to where they become fear. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 KJV 4 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 3. You are not alone. Isaiah 41:10 ESV 10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Psalms 56:3 NKJV 3 Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. 1 John 4:18-19 NKJV 18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. 19 We love Him because He first loved us. If we embrace his perfect love, then He will cast out all fear. Matthew 6:33-34 NLT 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 34 So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. John 14:26-27 NLT 26 But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative--that is, the Holy Spirit--he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. 27 I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. Previous Next
- Heroes of the Faith Pt. 10: Long Live the King | Bridgeway
< Back Heroes of the Faith Pt. 10: Long Live the King Pastor Nate Brosher Oct 12, 2025 Daniel 6:6-16 NLT - 6 So the administrators and high officers went to the king and said, "Long live King Darius! 7 We are all in agreement--we administrators, officials, high officers, advisers, and governors--that the king should make a law that will be strictly enforced. Give orders that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human--except to you, Your Majesty--will be thrown into the den of lions. 8 And now, Your Majesty, issue and sign this law so it cannot be changed, an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked." 9 So King Darius signed the law. 10 But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. 11 Then the officials went together to Daniel's house and found him praying and asking for God's help. 12 So they went straight to the king and reminded him about his law. "Did you not sign a law that for the next thirty days any person who prays to anyone, divine or human--except to you, Your Majesty--will be thrown into the den of lions?" "Yes," the king replied, "that decision stands; it is an official law of the Medes and Persians that cannot be revoked." 13 Then they told the king, "That man Daniel, one of the captives from Judah, is ignoring you and your law. He still prays to his God three times a day." 14 Hearing this, the king was deeply troubled, and he tried to think of a way to save Daniel. He spent the rest of the day looking for a way to get Daniel out of this predicament. 15 In the evening the men went together to the king and said, "Your Majesty, you know that according to the law of the Medes and the Persians, no law that the king signs can be changed." 16 So at last the king gave orders for Daniel to be arrested and thrown into the den of lions. The king said to him, "May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you." 1. Sabotaged. Sabotaged - Deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct (something). John 10:10 ESV - 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. Matthew 10:22 NKJV - 22 "And you will be hated by all for My name's sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. Romans 14:8-9 NLT - 8 If we live, it's to honor the Lord. And if we die, it's to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 Christ died and rose again for this very purpose--to be Lord both of the living and of the dead. Philippians 1:21 KJV - 21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Luke 9:23 KJV - 23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. Galatians 2:20 NLT - 20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Romans 6:10-11 NKJV - 10 For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11 Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Daniel 6:17-24 NLT - 17 A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den. The king sealed the stone with his own royal seal and the seals of his nobles, so that no one could rescue Daniel. 18 Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night fasting. He refused his usual entertainment and couldn't sleep at all that night. 19 Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions' den. 20 When he got there, he called out in anguish, "Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?" 21 Daniel answered, "Long live the king! 22 My God sent his angel to shut the lions' mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty." 23 The king was overjoyed and ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den. Not a scratch was found on him, for he had trusted in his God. 24 Then the king gave orders to arrest the men who had maliciously accused Daniel. He had them thrown into the lions' den, along with their wives and children. The lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den. 2. He will fight your battle. John 14:9 NLT - 9 Jesus replied, "Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don't know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you? John 10:27-30 NLT - 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, 29 for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father's hand. 30 The Father and I are one." - If we aren’t seeing God move in our life, then we must evaluate if we are truly surrendered to His will and not our own! Previous Next
- Heroes of the Faith Pt. 2: Identity | Bridgeway
< Back Heroes of the Faith Pt. 2: Identity Pastor Nate Brosher Aug 10, 2025 Genesis 17:1-6 NLT - 1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, "I am El-Shaddai--'God Almighty.' Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life. 2 I will make a covenant with you, by which I will guarantee to give you countless descendants." 3 At this, Abram fell face down on the ground. Then God said to him, 4 "This is my covenant with you: I will make you the father of a multitude of nations! 5 What's more, I am changing your name. It will no longer be Abram. Instead, you will be called Abraham, for you will be the father of many nations. 6 I will make you extremely fruitful. Your descendants will become many nations, and kings will be among them! 1. God’s Identity El-Shaddai – God Almighty Yahweh – I AM El Shaddai emphasizes God's power and ability to provide, while “I Am” Yahweh emphasizes God's covenant relationship and active presence with his people. We allow doubt to slow down our process. Charles Spurgeon: “I believe that the happiest of all Christians and the truest of Christians are those who never dare to doubt God, but take His Word simply as it stands, and believe it, and ask no questions, just feeling assured that if God has said it, it will be so.” James 1:4-8 NKJV - 4 But let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting , for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. Are we willing to allow the Lord to change our identity? Genesis 17:9, 15-17 NLT - 9 Then God said to Abraham, "Your responsibility is to obey the terms of the covenant. You and all your descendants have this continual responsibility. ... 15 Then God said to Abraham, "Regarding Sarai, your wife--her name will no longer be Sarai. From now on her name will be Sarah. 16 And I will bless her and give you a son from her! Yes, I will bless her richly, and she will become the mother of many nations. Kings of nations will be among her descendants." 17 Then Abraham bowed down to the ground, but he laughed to himself in disbelief. "How could I become a father at the age of 100?" he thought. "And how can Sarah have a baby when she is ninety years old?" 2. God’s Infinity When God is in it, there is no limit! How do we deal with Identity Theft? Romans 8:28 NLT - 28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Previous Next
- Preparation: Preparing the Way | Bridgeway
< Back Preparation: Preparing the Way Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 10, 2024 Isaiah 40:3-5 ESV 3 A voice cries: "In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain. 5 And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken." Matthew 3:1-3 ESV 1 In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, 2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." 3 For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, "The voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.'" Preparation – the action or process of making ready or being made ready for use or consideration. Matthew 28:18-20 ESV 18 And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Disciples (mathēteuō) – To become a pupil, to follow his instructions and precepts, to teach and instruct. Lack of Preparation Mark 4:35-41 ESV 35 On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, "Let us go across to the other side." 36 And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. 38 But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, "Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?" 39 And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, "Peace! Be still!" And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 He said to them, "Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?" 41 And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" Mark 4:34 NLT In fact, in his public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them. Matthew 14:22-33 NLT 22 Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. 23 After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. 24 Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. 25 About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!" 27 But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" 28 Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." 29 "Yes, come," Jesus said. So, Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. 31 Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" 32 When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. 33 Then the disciples worshiped him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed. Peter recognized his voice (Relationship). 1 Peter 3:13-16 NLT 13 Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14 But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats. 15 Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Previous Next
- Summer Bods Series Pt. 2: Move That Bus! | Bridgeway
< Back Summer Bods Series Pt. 2: Move That Bus! Pastor Nate Brosher Jun 16, 2024 Ephesians 1:3-8 NLT 3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. 4 Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. 5 God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. 6 So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. 7 He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. 8 He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. Understanding your identity in God starts with understanding who He is, what He says about Himself, and what He says about you. 1. The Battle of the Mind – Part 3 “If the mind isn’t right, the body isn’t right.” John 10:7-11 ESV 7 So Jesus again said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” Are we comprehending what he was saying? I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10) Does that mean we will never have challenges? 2. Why are we still living in our broken-down homes? John 14:15-18 ESV 15 "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, 17 even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. 18 "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. We can no longer live in yesterday’s mindsets. Previous Next
- Distractions: Are You Not Entertained?! | Bridgeway
< Back Distractions: Are You Not Entertained?! Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 21, 2024 Distractions: Are You Not Entertained?! Philippians 2:1-5 NLT 1 Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3 Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 1. Don’t be selfish and don’t try to impress others. Distractions: We are distracted by what the world says is success. Luke 14:23 NLT 23 So his master said, 'Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full. Hebrews 12:1 ESV 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely , and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Romans 12:2 ESV 2 Do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. 2. We must have the same attitude that Christ had. Phroneo – To be of the same mind, be harmonious, be wise, have understanding. Jesus said some things that are uncomfortable for many of us to follow. Mat 5:43-44 ESV 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Matthew 5:27-28 ESV 27 "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Was the blood that I shed not enough? 3. Breaking off the Self-Centered mindset. Philippians 2:4 Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. It must be Christ centered at the forefront. Previous Next
- Sacrificial Living Pt. 1: Consecration | Bridgeway
< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 1: Consecration Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 12, 2025 2Timothy 4:3-8 NLT - 3 For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. 4 They will reject the truth and chase after myths. 5 But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. 6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me--the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. 1. What have we made sacred in our lives? Sacred is an adjective used to describe a person or thing worthy of worship or declared holy. Exodus 20:3 ESV - 3 "You shall have no other gods before me. ■ Consecrated – To make or declare sacred. Joshua 3:5 ESV - 5 Then Joshua said to the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you." ■ qāḏaš - sanctify, prepare, dedicate, be hallowed, be holy, be sanctified, be separate. What are we chasing after? 2. Where are we going? Is your life self-driven or is it Christ-driven? Romans 12:1-2 ESV - 1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. 2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Are we presenting our bodies a living sacrifice to God or a living sacrifice to this world? 2Timothy 2:20-22 NLT - 20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work. 22 Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts. How desperate are we? Matthew 5:13-16 ESV - 13 "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Previous Next
- Are You Chasing the Wind? | Bridgeway
< Back Are You Chasing the Wind? Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 7, 2024 Are You Chasing the Wind? Ecclesiastes 3:14-15 NLT 14 And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God's purpose is that people should fear him. 15 What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again. Ecclesiastes represents the painful autobiography of Solomon who, for much of his life, squandered God's blessings on his own personal pleasure rather than God's glory. He wrote to warn subsequent generations not to make the same tragic error. Solomon said, “God makes the same things happen over and over again!” Life is a big cycle. Our response determines our cycle of life. What are we chasing after? If we are chasing and pursuing after anything but God, we are chasing the wind. Isaiah 66:12 ESV 12 For thus says the LORD: "Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream; and you shall nurse, you shall be carried upon her hip, and bounced upon her knees. God gives us peace like a river. How do we explain peace to someone who is distraught and in pain? Philippians 4:6-7 NLT 6 Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Don’t worry about anthing! 1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain, 7 for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. 8 But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. Godliness – (Reverence, respect towards God) with contentment (a perfect condition of life in which no aid or support is needed) is great gain! Solomon’s final words Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 NLT 13 That's the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty. 14 God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad. Only we can answer the question internally of what we are chasing after or pursuing. Previous Next
- Summer Bods Series Pt. 5: His Mighty Armor | Bridgeway
< Back Summer Bods Series Pt. 5: His Mighty Armor Pastor Nate Brosher Jul 7, 2024 Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT - 10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God's armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. 1. The Belt of Truth Ephesians 4:15 NLT - 15 Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. John 17:16-19 CSB - 16 "They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. 18 "As you sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 "I sanctify myself for them, so that they also may be sanctified by the truth. 2. Breastplate of Righteousness Romans 3:10 NKJV - 10 As it is written: "There is none righteous, no, not one” 2Corinthians 2:10-11 ESV - 10 Anyone whom you forgive, I also forgive. Indeed, what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ, 11 so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs. 3. Shoes of the Gospel of Peace Luke 14:23 ESV - 23 And the master said to the servant, 'Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. 4. Shield of Faith Matthew 17:20 NLT - 20 "You don't have enough faith," Jesus told them. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible." Philippians 1:6 NKJV - 6 being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete [it] until the day of Jesus Christ. ■ Confidence – Conviction – Faith 5. Helmet of Salvation Psalm 27:1 CSB - 1 The LORD is my light and my salvation -- whom should I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life -- whom should I dread? Isaiah 59:17 CSB - 17 He put on righteousness as body armor, and a helmet of salvation on his head . 6. Sword of the Spirit Hebrews 4:12 ESV - 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 7. Praying Always! 1Thessalonians 5:17-18 NKJV - 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Previous Next