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- The Waiting Room Pt. 1: Prayer and Supplication | Bridgeway
< Back The Waiting Room Pt. 1: Prayer and Supplication Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 8, 2024 Philippians 4:4-7 ESV - 4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness ( gentleness or gentle spirit ) be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand ( near ); 6 do not be anxious ( troubled with cares, to seek to promote one's interests ) about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 1. Rejoice in the Lord Rejoice – (Chairo) – to be cheerful, happy, glad, hail and thriving. Acts 11:19-24 ESV - 19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists ( Greek speaking non-Jews ) also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 2. Don’t be anxious! Philippians 4:6 NLT - do not be anxious ( troubled with cares, to seek to promote one's interests ) about anything , but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Paul is just reiterating what Jesus told his disciples. Matthew 6:25 ESV - 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” ■ Prayer – “proseuchē”: prayer addressed to God. Worship. ■ Supplication – “deēsis”: a seeking, asking, entreating, entreaty to God. ■ Thanksgiving – “eucharistia”: gratitude; actively, grateful language. 3. Always Remembering Him Psalm 34:1-3 ESV - 1 I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. 2 My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. 3 Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! Prayer should be a daily practice. Previous Next
- Sacrificial Living Pt. 3: Take Up Your Cross | Bridgeway
< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 3: Take Up Your Cross Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 26, 2025 Luke 9:23-26 ESV - 23 And he said to all, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. 24 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself? 26 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. 1. Are we willing to follow? Jesus said, we are to deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. ■ The cross was a symbol of death by crucifixion. Galatians 5:24-26 NLT - 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. 25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. 26 Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. ■ Deny – To refuse to give or grant something desired. ■ Arneomai – To reject, disregard one’s own interest. “We are to reject, disregard our own interests and take up our cross daily.” John 14:19-21 NLT - 19 Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Since I live, you also will live. 20 When I am raised to life again, you will know that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. 21 Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." 2. Are we accepting His commandments and obeying them? ■ We are at a crossroad in our lives. John 21:18-19 NLT – 18 "I tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you don't want to go." 19 Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, "Follow me." Are you ready to follow Him? Consider these questions: Are you willing to follow Jesus if it means losing your closest friends? Are you willing to follow Jesus if it means alienation from your family? Are you willing to follow Jesus if it means losing your reputation? Are you willing to follow Jesus if it means losing your job? Are you willing to follow Jesus if it means losing your life? Previous Next
- Sacrificial Living Pt. 2: My Sacrifice | Bridgeway
< Back Sacrificial Living Pt. 2: My Sacrifice Pastor Nate Brosher Jan 19, 2025 “In a secular world where “me” is God and everyone else is a means to more of “me,” who wants to serve others? In a techy world where “selfies” are currency and “likes” are gold, and where academic achievement, sporting achievement, money, fame, media celebrity status, and the latest cool fashion logos have iconic status, who really cares about living sacrificially? Who really cares whether I care? What even is sacrificial living?– Author, Shona Murray Ephesians 2:8-10 NLT - 8 God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. 9 Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 10 For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. 1. Greatest Sacrifice Mark 16:15 : "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation" Matthew 28:19-20 : "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" Matthew 24:14 : "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations" ■ We have all been called to be a witness “Sacrificial living is motivated by a love for God and gratitude for salvation, not by legalism.” – Author, Shona Murray. Matthew 6:31-33 NLT - 31 "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. ■ A sacrificed heart is driven by the concern to meet others’ needs, because Christ met our need. 2. What are we doing? 1Corinthians 6:12-14, 19-20 NLT – 12 You say, "I am allowed to do anything"--but not everything is good for you. And even though "I am allowed to do anything," I must not become a slave to anything. 13 You say, "Food was made for the stomach, and the stomach for food." (This is true, though someday God will do away with both of them.) But you can't say that our bodies were made for sexual immorality. They were made for the Lord, and the Lord cares about our bodies. 14 And God will raise us from the dead by his power, just as he raised our Lord from the dead. ... 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. 1 Corinthians 6:15 NLT Don't you realize that your bodies are actually parts of Christ? Should a man take his body, which is part of Christ, and join it to a prostitute? Never! David Livingstone – (1813-1873) Scottish Missionary.– “God send me anywhere, only go with me. Lay any burden on me, only sustain me. And sever any tie in my heart except the tie that binds my heart to Yours.” Robert Morrison – (1782-1834) First Protestant Missionary in China. - “When you get to heaven, will you look back on this earth and regret how much treasure you laid up here instead of sending it on ahead to heaven?” ■ Sacrificial living is love-motivated, not law-motivated. Matthew 6:1-4 NLT - 1 "Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. 2 When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. 3 But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4 Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Previous Next
- Heroes of the Faith Pt. 11: When Faith is Tested | Bridgeway
< Back Heroes of the Faith Pt. 11: When Faith is Tested Pastor Nate Brosher Oct 19, 2025 Job 1:13-22 NLT - 13 One day when Job's sons and daughters were feasting at the oldest brother's house, 14 a messenger arrived at Job's home with this news: "Your oxen were plowing, with the donkeys feeding beside them, 15 when the Sabeans raided us. They stole all the animals and killed all the farmhands. I am the only one who escaped to tell you." 16 While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: "The fire of God has fallen from heaven and burned up your sheep and all the shepherds. I am the only one who escaped to tell you." 17 While he was still speaking, a third messenger arrived with this news: "Three bands of Chaldean raiders have stolen your camels and killed your servants. I am the only one who escaped to tell you." 18 While he was still speaking, another messenger arrived with this news: "Your sons and daughters were feasting in their oldest brother's home. 19 Suddenly, a powerful wind swept in from the wilderness and hit the house on all sides. The house collapsed, and all your children are dead. I am the only one who escaped to tell you." 20 Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to worship. 21 He said, "I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!" 22 In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God. 1. Why are we being tested? Job 1:8 NLT - 8 He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless--a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil." What is God saying about us? Job 1:22 NLT - In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God. Job 2:7-10 NLT - 7 So Satan left the LORD's presence, and he struck Job with terrible boils from head to foot. 8 Job scraped his skin with a piece of broken pottery as he sat among the ashes. 9 His wife said to him, "Are you still trying to maintain your integrity? Curse God and die." 10 But Job replied, "You talk like a foolish woman. Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?" So, in all this, Job said nothing wrong . Job 6:28-30 NLT - 28 Look at me! Would I lie to your face? 29 Stop assuming my guilt, for I have done no wrong. 30 Do you think I am lying? Don't I know the difference between right and wrong? Job 9:32-35 NLT - 32 "God is not a mortal like me, so I cannot argue with him or take him to trial. 33 If only there were a mediator between us, someone who could bring us together. 34 The mediator could make God stop beating me, and I would no longer live in terror of his punishment. 35 Then I could speak to him without fear, but I cannot do that in my own strength. 2. Mediator Hebrews 8:6 NLT - 6 But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises. Jeremiah 31:31-34 ESV - 31 "Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, 32 not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD. 33 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 34 And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more." 1John 2:1-2 NLT - 1 My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous. 2 He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins--and not only our sins but the sins of all the world. We have been given an advocate to the Father and that is through Jesus Christ! ■ Advocate - paraklētos - one who pleads another's cause before a judge, a pleader, counsel for defense, legal assistant. Ephesians 1:13-14 NLT - 13 And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago. 14 The Spirit is God's guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him. Previous Next
- Guardrails Pt. 4: The Purge | Bridgeway
< Back Guardrails Pt. 4: The Purge Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 23, 2025 John 15:1-8 ESV – 1 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. Prunes – Kathairo – to cleanse, of filth impurity. John 15:3-4 ESV - 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide/Remain in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides/remains in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide/remain in me. 1. Spiritual Growth 2Corinthians 7:1 NIV - 1 Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify/cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. What is contaminating you? Molysmos – defilement, an action by which anything is defiled Are we staying connected to the Vine? 2. The Gardener/Vinedresser Matthew 13:24-30 ESV - 24 He put another parable before them, saying, "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field, 25 but while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. 26 So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. 27 And the servants of the master of the house came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have weeds?' 28 He said to them, 'An enemy has done this.' So, the servants said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' 29 But he said, 'No, lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, "Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned but gather the wheat into my barn." Weeds/Tare - Zizanion - a kind of darnel, resembling wheat except the grains are black. “Sticks and Stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” – Author unknown (1830) Proverbs 12:18 NIV – 18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords , but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Purge – rid (someone or something) of an unwanted quality, condition, or feeling. 1Corinthians 11:31-32 NLT - 31 But if we would examine ourselves, we would not be judged by God in this way. 32 Yet when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned along with the world. John 17:16-17 NLT - 16 They do not belong to this world any more than I do. 17 Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Previous Next
- The Journey Series Pt. 5: Any Way You Want It | Bridgeway
< Back The Journey Series Pt. 5: Any Way You Want It Pastor Nate Brosher Dec 1, 2024 Matthew 24:4-14 NLT - 4 Jesus told them, "Don't let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah.' They will deceive many. 6 And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don't panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won't follow immediately. 7 Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. 8 But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. 9 "Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. 10 And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other. 11 And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 14 And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. 1. My Way is the Right Way. - “Don’t offend me.”. (My feelings outweigh truth.) Matthew 15:11-12 ESV - 11 it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person." 12 Then the disciples came and said to him, "Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?" - “I’m comfortable in my lifestyle of sin.” (You can’t judge me!) Matthew 7:1-2 ESV - 1 "Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. 1 Corinthians 15:33-34 ESV - 33 Do not be deceived: "Bad company ruins good morals." 34 Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning. For some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame. 2 Timothy 4:3-4 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. - “I go to church, I’m ok.” (Form of Godliness) 2 Timothy 3:5 NLT - 5 They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! 1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV - 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. ■ Abstain – Refrain, hold yourself back from. - “I don’t have to share my faith.” (God knows my heart.) Matthew 10:32-33 NLT - 32 "Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. 33 But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. Ephesians 4:25 ESV - 25 Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Romans 12:1-2 NKJV - 1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what [is] that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. 2. Don’t be Misled! Matthew 24:4 Jesus told them, "Don't let anyone mislead you, 5 for many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah.' They will deceive many. Matthew 24:11 - And many false prophets will appear and will deceive many people. 12 Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved. 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
- 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
- Preparation: Equip the Body | Bridgeway
< Back Preparation: Equip the Body Pastor Nate Brosher Mar 17, 2024 Matthew 28:18-20 NLT 18 Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." 1. Therefore GO! Jesus said, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth” then barks out an order to “GO!” Ephesians 4:11-13 NLT 11 Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. 12 Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. 13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God's Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. 2. Equipped to measure up to the standard of Christ. Maturity - Being mature in Christ is being conformed to His image, and therefore it is walking as He walked. Colossians 2:6-7 NLT 6 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Immaturity - “lacking complete growth, differentiation, or development.” Hebrews 5:12 NLT You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. Matthew 17:17 NLT 17 Jesus said, "You faithless and corrupt people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me." Instruction was given to them prior. Matthew 16:18-19 NLT Upon this rock I will build my church , and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven." 3. When we are United. Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT 14 Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won't be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. 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. 16 He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love. 1 Corinthians 15:57-58 NLT But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. Previous Next
- Heroes of the Faith Pt. 5: Be Strong and Courageous | Bridgeway
< Back Heroes of the Faith Pt. 5: Be Strong and Courageous Pastor Nate Brosher Aug 31, 2025 Joshua 1:6-9 NLT - 6 "Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. 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. The Promise The promise rarely discloses the hardship we might face. 1Corinthians 13:9-12 ESV - 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part, 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. 11 When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. 2. Don’t Deviate! Romans 5:2-5 ESV - 2 Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, 4 and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, 5 and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. We catch ourselves outside of the will of God because we have failed to follow His instructions! 3. Do not be discouraged! Joshua 1:9 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." The repeated command emphasized that God was with him! Isaiah 55:8 ESV - 8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. 2Corinthians 4:7-10 ESV - 7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. 8 We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. We will be persecuted but we will NOT be forsaken! Previous Next
- Distractions: Vision Driven | Bridgeway
< Back Distractions: Vision Driven Pastor Nate Brosher Feb 4, 2024 Habakkuk 2:2-3 ESV 2 And the LORD answered me: "Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. 3 For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end--it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay. 1. Appointed Time. Hebrews 9:27 NKJV - 27 And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. (apokeimai) which means, reserved, awaiting and/or set aside. (moed) which is a season, feast and/or an appointed time. 2. We need Vision! Proverbs 29:18 KJV 18 Where [there is] no vision , the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy [is] he. (ḥāzôn) – Dream, revelation, divine communication. Numbers 12:6 – ( mar'â) – Mode of revelation, mirror, looking glass. 3. We are capable. Jeremiah 1:5 ESV 5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born, I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." Appointed – (Natan) – assigned, designated, granted. How do I know greatness is in you? Romans 8:9-11 NLT 9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) 10 And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. 11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Smith Wigglesworth (Book – “Healing”) – 1859-1947 The trouble is that we do not have the power of God in a full manifestation because of our finite thoughts, but as we go on and let God have His way, there is no limit to what our limitless God will do in response to a limitless faith. But you will never get anywhere except you are in constant pursuit of all the power of God. What are you pursuing? Previous Next
- House of Prayer Pt. 3: Stand Your Ground | Bridgeway
< Back House of Prayer Pt. 3: Stand Your Ground Pastor Nate Brosher Jul 20, 2025 Ephesians 6:10-12 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. 1. Be Strong in the Lord! “Be strong in the Lord and in HIS mighty power. Put on all of God's armor.” How do we embrace a mindset of complete dependency on Christ? Ephesians 6:13-18 NLT - 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. Put on EVERY piece of God’s armor. 2. Stay Alert! 1Peter 5:8-9 NLT - 8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are. We must always be watching out! A lion’s roar can reach up to 114 decibels and be heard up to 5 miles. Isaiah 54:17 ESV - 17 no weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD and their vindication from me, declares the LORD." 2Corinthians 1:20-22 ESV - 20 For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory. 21 And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, 22 and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. We must stand our ground when we pray! Previous Next