Harvest Church of Minden

As we look at the baptism and genealogy of Jesus, we are able to find out more of who he is as the Son of God and the Son of Man.

John had a very important ministry in preparing the way of the Lord, and he included a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. We need to understand the meaning of these things to the Jewish culture and to the church today. As a result, we can understand that repentance is a very important ministry for our walks with God. 

As we look at the limited information that we have surrounding the childhood of Jesus, we see some good truths about Luke's account of the gospel and  the importance of being devoted to the Lord, and understanding that salvation is for all. We also see the struggle of honoring our father and mother, while obeying God in our life. This seems to be the same thing, but is a conflict that we will all face one day, as we understand faith as our own. 

Jesus' incarnation shows us the love of God in many ways. In this message we focus on how it is vulnerable, brings life, and is present. Many times we try to substitute other things through our difficulties in life to feel love or be made whole. Jesus is the only thing that can satisfy that longing. 

The birth of John the Baptist brings about joy and excitement for the path to be prepared. He will prepare the path for people to Christ. The wonder surrounding his birth caused the people to exclaim, "what then will this child be?" As the church we too light the path for people to encounter Jesus, and we look at our lives with the same wonder of what will our new life in Christ be!

The Second week of Advent has us looking at the announcement given to Mary in Luke 1 and her response to Gabriel, Elizabeth and John's response to Mary, and Mary's response to Elizabeth. All filled with praise! Mary's Hymn motivates us to respond in kind.

Beginning our study of the gospel of Luke, and beginning the advent season to focus on the prophecy of John the Baptist. His purpose was to make ready for the Lord a people prepared. There are many connections to our own lives as to how we are prepared for coming of Jesus. We need to repent and trust in the Word of God. 

During the 40 year desert wandering, the Israelites continue to complain about a lack of water. God responds, and Moses doesn't think God is reacting enough so he takes matters into his own hands. We need to be careful in how we are representing God in all areas of our lives as Christians. We are called to holiness, and it is to maintained for the glory of God. We should approach our days, conversations and opportunities in a way to bring Him glory.

Unbelief and doubt will often stems find its root in fear. Your anxiety, worry and fear paralyze you in many ways. Today we look at how the fear that the Israelites had denied them the promise of God and took them out of his will. How do our fears impact our ministry opportunities and walk with Christ.

How long does a lesson or application stick with you? We continue the Exodus journey and see patterns that the Israelites fall into when it comes to rebellion. They faced the same question that we do, is God's grace sufficient, or will we desire something else?