CrossWords Ministry

We learn from Paul's meeting with these Ephesian disciples that baptism is integral to salvation and faith.

YT - https://youtu.be/Cv37AqFJIXI

Acts 16 continues to detail the second missionary journey by Paul and Silas. Luke and Timothy join them on this trip. Paul receives a call, not via phone or any other electronic means, but by the Holy Spirit. He understands he needs to go through the region of Macedonia. That is where Lydia is met with and baptized, as well as the Philippian Jailer and others through the area known today as Greece.

YT - https://youtu.be/BktcSYxW1og

Acts 15 - How to Handle Disputes

In Acts 15, we come across two disputes, a major one that is resolved for the time being and a minor one that goes unresolved for a while. We'll focus mainly on the major one.

YT - https://youtu.be/IgnhY1ThXuw

Many Bible commentators feel that chapter 13 marks a distinct break in the Book of Acts. Some even go so far as to call it Volume II of Acts. The Apostle Paul has now definitely come into the place of prominence, and Antioch in Syria becomes the center from which the gospel radiates to the Gentiles.

YT: https://youtu.be/vdg0-ZQ3LBY

This chapter of Acts shows God's Divine Providence in action, contrasted with His miraculous powers. We can usually identify a miracle in the bible because we know those things don't happen today. The way Peter was rescued shows God's power working miraculously. Herod's death, though caused by an angel of the Lord (Acts 12:23), did not exhibit the same visuals as Peter's escape from the prison. It was hidden from man's perception, just as Flavius Josephus' account indicates. These workings, hidden from man's sight and perception, are what divine providence is about. Even though "providence" is not a biblical word, the concept of the word permeates the living Word of God.

YT: https://www.youtube.com/live/LNyZO5tL2H0?feature=share&t=1938

Perhaps no other case of conversion in the Bible receives as much attention as Cornelius, aside from Paul's own conversion. There are many things the Spirit wants us to learn by this example in this chapter and the next. We know in chapter 2 many prophecies were fulfilled upon the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. It was a promise fulfilled. Some say that what happens to Cornelius is a second outpouring but no such scriptural reference is made in this case. The Spirit was already poured out, available unto all who called on His name (Acts 2:21; 22:16). Here we see, about 10 years later, how the Gentiles were ushered into this promise which God intended all along.

YT: https://youtu.be/vNF7HgXT1oE

The greatest persecutor of the church at the time meets with Jesus, and his life is forever changed. He who thought himself to be mighty had to be humbled to recognize what might really is. Paul begins his journey as the 13th apostle of Jesus.

YT: https://youtu.be/m9Lr5djVtak

Acts CH 8 is one of my favorite chapters. Within this chapter we put to rest the misunderstanding of the empowering vs the indwelling of the Spirit, and also why the age of miracles has been over since the first century. This chapter also features three great characters: Philip, one of The Seven, Simon the Magician, and the Ethiopian Eunuch. Our brother Bob will cover the Eunuch in Bible Class, so today we will review how Philip meets Simon in Samaria.

YT: https://youtu.be/sDCqcH8ZGJg

Here we will see how the church responded to a seeming problem among the members of the church, resulting in the first instance of the laying on of the hands of the Apostles to the Seven, the first expansion of the church's organization. We will also see how Stephen rises to be the first martyr of the church in the next chapter.

YT: https://youtu.be/R0OngIhUxXU

A second recorded sermon by Peter reiterates the promise of God unto all those who desire to turn to Him. In this message, he emphasizes dependence on God and not on man. The pattern of man is to look for dependence on the seen and to reject the unseen. Peter reminds them God has made "seen" the signs and wonders that indicate Jesus is the Master of the Universe and the only One who can help us all in this life. Turn to Him!

YT: https://youtu.be/b7BOXfdnjx0

As the Gospels declare the glory of the 2nd person of the Godhead, The Son, Acts declares the work and glory of the third person of the Godhead, The Holy Spirit.

YT: https://youtu.be/fSYoJLOij_E

Jesus appears over a period of 40 days after His resurrection. He gives many convincing proofs He is alive and appears to over 400 people! 

YT: https://youtu.be/aNy4ArEPJBI?t=2345

Jesus had an anxious night, praying in the garden. Then he had a terrible beginning to Friday. This Friday would be the darkest Friday the Universe ever saw - when God's Son was humiliated, rejected, and killed.

YT: https://youtu.be/HzIo5FV6jT8

This was the exclamation Pilate made somewhat in defense of Jesus when the Jews handed him over. It was one of many things we will find interesting in the account of Jesus' trials in the Gospel record. 

We will do a quick review of the process of the trials, then focus on one of the meaningful conversations between Jesus and Pilate. Then we will speak about three lessons and the applications of all this.

YT: https://youtu.be/nuXKCLRAGUk

A scene that is common in every Mario Game I played with my boys is the contest with the boss. To get to the next level, you have to fight the boss. At the end, there is a big boss you have to defeat. Each arena is different. They get more and more grandiose as you go up the levels. More and more intense. 

Think of other places where great contests take place. The arena could be a boxing ring, a raceway, or a battleground. It could be your office, your school, or your bedroom. 

The greatest arena where the greatest match took place was in a garden. The most epic battle between good and evil was decided in a garden. Humanity would never be the same again.

YT: https://youtu.be/85nlvny6-tM?t=2274

Transitions - Journey to Maturity as the Body of Christ - Nomination of Elders and Deacons

If you like any type of gardening or cultivating, planting is involved at one point in time or another. If you buy a small plant, eventually, you have to transition it to a bigger pot. If you buy a tree, you have to plant it somewhere in your yard. Plants are living things and need to grow. That involves transitioning. Even if you plant seeds, you often plant them in a small place, grow them and then transition them to a more permanent place. 

Transition - Movement or passage from one position, state, or stage to another.

YT: https://youtu.be/MM2h_4iT0ts?t=2928

How do you measure greatness? I am sure each of you strives for something you may consider greatness. Or perhaps you strive after someone else idea of greatness, which tends to affect your self-confidence. Is greatness something we can measure universally? What makes someone truly great in the eyes of others, regardless of our ideas, beliefs, or conviction? 

We will explore what that means today. While I get started, finish this sentence in your own mind: "I serve others by…"

YT:  https://youtu.be/Q3BqLv5rVBY

Have you ever felt betrayed? It is one of the worst feelings in the world. The betrayer will also feel his betrayal sooner or later, and it will weigh upon them a whole lot more. 

On which side of Jesus will you stand? On His right or on His left? Have you ever felt you betrayed Jesus? What happened? How can we end up betraying Jesus?

YT: https://youtu.be/Aw2H1iHYPG4

Jesus wanted to teach his disciples about giving. It was more than the amount you give, it is about where your heart is when you give.

We hear about billionaires giving millions to charity, but what kind of giving actually pleases God?

YT: https://youtu.be/kHFZTjAOEL8

The Jews understood the Messiah was royalty, but Jesus wanted them to understand He was deity. 

What you think of the Christ impacts the way you live.

YT: https://youtu.be/pNMa2uAPkcg

We are in Jesus' final week of His life. Many things are coming up to a head this week. Think of the pressure on Jesus. He knew what was coming. He had been telling His disciples about the outcome, but they were unable to understand His predictions.

YT: https://youtu.be/ZMmSzgy4XxM

There have been many throughout history: The Crossing of the Rubicon by Julius Caesar, the return of General Douglas MacArthur to the Philippines, and the return of the Apollo 11 astronauts to Earth. 

Today we will be taking a look at the most iconic triumphal entry of all. In this episode we will also learn some more things about Jesus, the Christ. 

YT:  https://youtu.be/Ar1vgVqjTB4

This is a funny phrase. It is an idiomatic phrase that comes from Genesis. What distracted Eve? What got a hold of her focus? What got her off-track? Of course, the proverbial apple. The fruit of the tree of good and evil was the "Apple of her eye". This phrase is mostly used as a term of endearment as well. We can call our spouse the "apple of our eye", and of course, Jesus, our King, should be the apple of our eye. 

We're going to study two incidents this afternoon and wrap around them a parable that emphasizes the importance of what we are actively seeking at any moment in time in our lives. You see, there are things we can miss out on, just because we're not paying attention. 

YT: https://youtu.be/azVKLxyZf4c

Jesus discusses the rewards of obedience with his disciples. I know we have all pondered upon the current blessings we enjoy as disciples of Jesus. We believe we will be in bliss in Heaven in the presence of God. Sometimes, though, I know we need to be reminded of the rewards of following Christ particularly when things may get difficult or challenging for our faith. 

Another question you may have concerns those who become Christians at a young age versus those who get baptized at their 11th hour. Is there a difference in their rewards? Should those who worked for a longer time in God's kingdom reap better rewards? Is it fair for those who were baptized on their death bed to receive the same rewards as those who've been in the kingdom all their life?

YT: https://youtu.be/wvQLcTZ2bmI?t=3036

Even though God is unlimited in His kindness, patience, and compassion, there seems to be a limit to His mercy. Jesus will touch on that in today's lesson. The reason Jesus brings it up? People were not showing fruit of repentance.

YT: https://youtu.be/5we5tSOYlv4?t=2886

Jesus is being tested again. How do you react when someone tests you? Do you get offended, or defensive? It is hard not to let your emotions get the best of you when you realize someone is putting you to the test. This is not the only thing we learn from Jesus' actions during this event. We also learn about judgment. Jesus' character is revealed as to what kind of judge is He. We should be grateful! People tend to go to extremes, lacking in mercy for selfish reasons, or not caring about truth and morality at all - being extremely liberal. The Pharisees were already judging Jesus as being extremely liberal - uncaring about what the Law said. But Jesus always turned the issue on them. Let's see how this event unfolds. 

YT: https://youtu.be/tkdIJ4up3yc

People remember songs very easily. We also tend to remember acronyms, which is why we usually use them to recall things that may not so easily be remembered otherwise, like the corresponding musical notes on the lines and spaces of the pentagram and other useful things. Jesus used something a little different to help us not only remember spiritual teachings but to also reflect on the depth of His teachings. He used a common literary device to teach profound spiritual truths which are still reverberating in our collective consciousness.

YT:  https://youtu.be/abEBUg74IR4

Judging others is frowned upon. People say, "don't judge or you will be judged," which is actually a quote from Jesus. What goes around comes around, and many other proverbs from yore. We make judgments every day, though. You can't make it through the day without judging. You judge for yourself what you must do and what decisions you must make just to make it through the day. Judging sometimes takes a lot of work and it often takes an emotional and mental toll.

Today we will learn how to judge because we must judge. We will qualify the kind of judgment Jesus is speaking of when He says, "do not judge". Judging rightly is something a disciple is called upon by God Himself. But if we judge wrongly, we will find ourselves alone, exhausted, and ostracized by people and God.

https://youtu.be/SeyUgOimqPc

We are looking at some events that occurred after Jesus' birth. We will continue to do a character study of some of the people in these events. By studying their character we will also be learning about the evidence given that He was the Messiah to come. Their message is more important than their reputation.

YT: https://youtu.be/tQC_98Vdtco

Youth Devotional Lesson

Pedro Enoch Gelabert

9/24/2021

Usamos la palabra gracia para describir muchas cosas diferentes, incluyendo cómo las personas tratan a los demás (favorablemente) y cómo la gente se presenta (elegantes/agradables). Este mismo doble significado existe en el hebreo. Al rastrear la palabra a través del Antiguo Testamento, podemos obtener una mejor comprensión de lo que es la gracia y cómo podemos depender de ella. 

FB: https://www.facebook.com/1547824029/videos/10218302343620472/
YT: https://youtu.be/SE9AYKkwXFM

Relationships revolve around trust. Without this element, there is no improvement, no calling higher, no challenge, and no depth of love. Trust requires trustworthiness, though. Trustworthiness relies on evidence - something tangible that proves reliability and truthfulness. Trust in God or in humans requires this element - is not blind trust.

With this episode, we finish God's Character Series. We are working on producing it in Spanish and the episodes will be rolling out soon. 

Mercy, love, kindness, lovingkindness, goodness, steadfast love, and faithfulness; are some of the words different translations have used when conveying God's attribute of "abounding in love". But in reality, it is a combination of some of these that better convey the meaning of the Hebrew "khesed". It really carries the idea of a deep-seated zeal towards someone, expressed in acts of love, kindness, and generosity because of a promise that has been made to someone who has your undivided loyalty. Because of this loyalty you are motivated to go above and beyond what is expected. This is the idea behind khesed.  I guess we can distill all of this down into Steadfast Lovingkindness. 

As human beings, we display a wide range of emotions. This is something unique in God's creation. One of the most misunderstood ones is anger. Those of us raised in western ways tend to think of anger as something bad, an emotion we'd rather not deal with or even try to understand in others. We treat anger as a problem, as something we need to weed out of our character. I think that is why we have so many outbreaks and dysfunctions when it comes to this. God's anger never gets mismanaged. It is never out of control. God is not only willing to tolerate, but to be patient. His patience is as much a display of His love as is His anger. He is quick to forgive and does not hold onto His anger as we do.

Definition and examples of Covenants
What Marriage is NOT

YouTube: https://youtu.be/67y8enzC0R8?t=175

When we speak of grace, we can think of two different meanings. In reference to a person, like, "she looks so graceful", we're referring to the person's demeanor, behavior, and esthetic beauty altogether. When said of someone's demeanor towards someone else, like in, "our landlord was graceful to us", the word takes on another meaning, as in showing favor, kindness, and/or compassion. In this second example, grace involves showing favor towards someone. Favor can be shown because you like the person, because you want something from the person, or simply out of the kindness of your heart, because you take pity on them. In this latter context, we find compassion and grace often put together when referring to God's character. 

Exodus 34:6-7 (NIV) The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, (7) maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.

Verse 7 illustrates God's traits are consistent and don't depend on what He gets in return. He is not defined by what others give Him. It is Him who defines us by the consistent love we get from Him.

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/2855770197976855

YouTube: https://youtu.be/dg_NhNtjJYk?t=2390

Luke 15:25-32
One of the most famous parables of Jesus can give us much insight into God's Character. It is a parable that puts us at ease, fills us with peace, and makes us long for the day when we hug our Heavenly Father!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/381722359575064

YouTube: https://youtu.be/iKcH5OAVpR0?t=2595

The muscle known as the heart is considered to be the center of physical life. It is the focus of all the vital functions of the body. However, in the figurative sense, the heart has come to be known as the center of a person’s mental (intellectual and emotional) and spiritual life. It describes the person as a whole. In biblical language, the heart is closely connected to 7 aspects that make us human beings. Taking all this into consideration, it is important for us to know the nature of the heart. The Bible clearly teaches that the heart is something that is not to be trusted. God has given to us a heart to connect with others, not to trust or hope in it. Not to follow it, but to use it to relate to others and to God. May this Bible study help you understand your heart so you can be blessed!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/699550330601722/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/egDh4TIxWq4?t=2447

If we are convinced Jesus died for our sin and was raised from the dead - living now in Heaven, interceding for the saints before the Father - we are convinced He sends us on a mission to tell of His Good News to people everywhere. This is what we call "The Great Commission". As we live and move and have our being; as we work, play, and study; we share this Good News of Jesus by how we live with Jesus' words on our lips. We show and tell of this Good News, as disciples in the making. If we truly are disciples in the making, we will be making disciples.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1604222593078907/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/v5khOKY4eE0?t=1306

"Worship" sounds like a religious word. The truth is, atheists and agnostics also worship. Man is a creature built to worship. The things is, unless you do it in Spirit and in Truth, as Jesus says in John 4:24, your worship is in vain. Vain worship ends in bitterness, lack of peace, heightened worldly passions, and leaving you totally defeated. Jesus came to testify to the truth (John 18:37) to save you from yourself and from the evil influences around you.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/570304090324852/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/KmHIdnUAbKI?t=1498

All human beings are of the same family. Prejudice and entitlement tend to come from minds that reject this truth, that see us as evolved animals instead of creatures made in love and to love by a God who is LOVE. Without involving God, people grow to take care of themselves. It is a kind of "survival of the fittest" mentality we see expressed in God's creation. Although God may have put that instinct in animals, He surely made us to be different from them. He called us to form part of a family that transcends this earthly existence.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/586700445315935/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZHZb-kIZX0Q?t=1514

Being in the Spirit

God wants intimacy with us just like any parent would like to have with their children. In order for intimacy to happen, those involved need to be willing to surrender to each other, to “give themselves up” in order to value the interests of the others. God showed us His willingness and desire to do this by having Jesus die for us while we were still His enemies (Rom 5:6-9). Now He calls us to die to self to be “in the spirit” in order to pursue intimacy with Him. In this lesson, we will examine what “being in the Spirit” is all about.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/2312783939029101/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/I6mbw0ZCq8Q?t=1511

Listening to God

A driver who aimlessly drives about without a goal in mind doesn’t know where he will end up and might end up completely lost without any guidance. A sailor who doesn't chart a course and doesn't have a map will be taken off course! The wind and the waves will take you away from the direction you want to go. Often the waves of injustice, bias, prejudice, and ignorance take us off course. God provides a trajectory so we can make sure we reach the destination we want. Sometimes we don't know what that looks like, but we trust God intends good for us, not harm.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/251535232739306/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/LqH3b2wEb-Y?t=1382

Big Mindedness vs Small Mindedness

One of the ideas that permeate in our society is the idea that unless we've done something significantly recognizable, we are no one important, with insignificant influence. We will examine Miriam, Moses' sister, in this lesson, to see how a small, courageous act resulted in the salvation of a nation and mighty acts of God that still reverberate throughout human history.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/175024840507234/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/tFBwdRFKxUM?t=1277

God's Kindness offers relief when you feel you're stuck in a situation beyond your control. God's kindness helps you prevent "herd mentality". God's kindness helps you see yourself as God sees you, not as you see you or how you think others see you. God's kindness helps you wait and be patient. God's kindness often comes from other people whom you least expect. That's God's way of putting a smile on your face every day you look to Him. Let's study this kindness in Titus 2:11-14. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/284676622553085/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/qvVV-SBLkZA?t=1378

God's Promises are dependable and trustworthy. The Lord provides for the righteous and unrighteous, but only those who make Him their refuge and trust Him are recipients of blessings in this life and into eternity. We will look at 8 promises God makes to His faithful in this Psalm that give us comfort, assurance, and peace anytime, anywhere.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/2898021970252638/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/9oo5w7Ov6WQ?t=1198

God sent Goliath to the Israelite camp in 1 Samuel 17. The Israelites thought Goliath was there to stop them. David knew it was to glorify God. David didn't look to what he didn't have to overcome this giant. David trusted God had given him all he needed. As a shepherd, he knew any obstacle he encountered, like a lion or a bear, was not there to stop him but to strengthen his faith and his love for God. David's character shows us the template needed to defeat any seeming giant in our lives today.

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1412708288914639/

YouTube: 

https://youtu.be/oa3vcLLr7o0?t=1367

Cuando Israel se enfrentó a Goliat en el campo de batalla, quedaron paralizados por el miedo porque lo percibieron como algo que no podían superar. ¿Pero, era él el verdadero gigante al que se enfrentaban? David expuso quiénes eran los verdaderos gigantes cuando derrotó a Goliat! ¿Quiénes son los verdaderos gigantes a los que nos enfrentamos hoy? Sintoniza y descubre.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/AutdLvGcGHc

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/285631221471754/videos/686132488620280/

None of These Diseases - Exodus 15:26

Pandemic, social distancing, quarantine, face masks… all seem to be new vocabulary words for this current age, and who knows, words we will be using much more frequently from now on. But are they really new? Is the practice of social distancing something we invented now? It's interesting that in light of medical and pharmaceutical advances, we're resorting to practices taken from the pages of the Bible. Before any other culture or peoples observed sanitary practices, Israel was given the "in" on it by God Himself, proving, once again, that the Bible comes from God and not from people.

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/kingdomsaint/videos/10215992229469062/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/P8i75TcydLY

#covid19 #apologetics #pandemic #bible #disease

Colosenses 2:11 (RVC) En él ustedes fueron también circuncidados. Pero no me refiero a la circuncisión física, sino a la circuncisión que nos hace Cristo, y que consiste en despojarnos de la naturaleza pecaminosa.

Colossians 2:11 (NIV) In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the flesh was put off when you were circumcised by Christ...

Pandemic 1

We live in unprecedented times. Fluid times often cause panic. Feeding into the panic, or fear, will undoubtedly produce rash, illogical, harmful, and selfish decisions. We are certainly not part of a herd of animals. We belong to a different herd: Jesus has called us out of the world to be His church and the gates of Hades (death) shall not overcome it!

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/4207885862570281/

YouTube: 

https://youtu.be/chsME7D6TDE?t=1153

Con Charlie Gomez, evangelista de la iglesia de Cristo en Long Island 

Romanos 8:1 (RVC) Por tanto, no hay ninguna condenación para los que están unidos a Cristo Jesús, los que no andan conforme a la carne, sino conforme al Espíritu...

With Charlie Gomez, Spanish Evangelist at the Long Island Church of Christ

Romans 8:1 (NIV) Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...

1 Pedro 1:3 (RVC) Bendito sea el Dios y Padre de nuestro Señor Jesucristo, que por su gran misericordia y mediante la resurreción de Jesucristo nos ha hecho nacer de nuevo a una esperanza viva...

1 Peter 1:3 (NIV) Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!  In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...

Isaias 25:8 (RVC) Dios el Señor destruirá a la muerte para siempre, enjugará de todos los rostros toda lágrima, y borrará de toda la tierra la afrenta de su pueblo. El Señor lo ha dicho.

Isaiah 25:8 (NIV) He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken.

Romanos 10:9 (RVC) Si confiesas con tu boca que Jesús es el Señor, y crees en tu corazón que Dios lo levantó de los muertos, serás salvo.

Romans 10:9 (NIV) If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,”  and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead,  you will be saved.

Galatians 2:20 (NIV) I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.  The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God,  who loved me and gave himself for me.

Part 4 of the series on "No Hell Below Us?"

We are fearful of many things in our lives. Fear of sickness, death, rejection, sadness, and loss. What did Jesus fear most? Tune in to find out.

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/656836938385970/

YouTube: 

https://youtu.be/pJlzbO4QnmI?t=1870

Psalms 100:3 (NIV) Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us,  and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Romanos 12:1 (RVC) Así que, hermanos, yo les ruego, por las misericordias de Dios, que se presenten ustedes mismos como un sacrificio vivo, santo y agradable a Dios. ¡Así es como se debe adorar a Dios!

Romans 12:1 (NIV) Therefore, I urge you,  brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,  holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.

Lucas 13:3 (RVC) ¡Pues yo les digo que no! Y si ustedes no se arrepienten, también morirán como ellos.

Luke 13:3 (NIV) I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 

Part 3 of the series on "No Hell Below Us?"

Jesus has a lot to say about Gehenna (hell). What is it? Why did He talk about it? What's at stake? Get ready to learn why Jesus came into this world and what He wants to save you from. Hell and judgment are more real than death and taxes. 

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/192987235267234/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/JJ4bqyrEaII?t=1571

Filipenses 2:5-7 (RVC) Que haya en ustedes el mismo sentir que hubo en Cristo Jesús, (6) quien, siendo en forma de Dios, no estimó el ser igual a Dios como cosa a que aferrarse, (7) sino que se despojó a sí mismo y tomó forma de siervo, y se hizo semejante a los hombres...

Philippians 2:6-7 (NIV) Who (Jesus), being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; (7) rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.

Matthew 11:28 (NIV) Come to me,  all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Mateo 11:28 (RVC) Vengan a mí todos ustedes, los agotados de tanto trabajar, que yo los haré descansar.

1 Juan 3:16 (RVC) En esto hemos conocido el amor: en que él dio su vida por nosotros. Así también nosotros debemos dar nuestra vida por los hermanos.

1 John 3:16 (NIV) This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.  And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.

1 Corintios 1:18 (RVC) El mensaje de la cruz es ciertamente una locura para los que se pierden, pero para los que se salvan, es decir, para nosotros, es poder de Dios.

1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV) For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing,  but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV ...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

2 Crónicas 7:14 (RVC) ...si mi pueblo, sobre el cual se invoca mi nombre, se humilla y ora, y busca mi rostro, y se aparta de sus malos caminos, yo lo escucharé desde los cielos, perdonaré sus pecados y sanaré su tierra.

Part 2 of the series on "No Hell Below Us?"

Where do we go when we die? Are there people in Heaven now? What happens when Jesus comes back? What happens on Judgement Day? Listen in.....

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/848590558883960/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/JH0-44zNio8?t=1554

2 Samuel 24:10-16 (GW) After David counted the people, his conscience troubled him. David said to the Lord, “I have committed a terrible sin by what I have done. Lord, please forgive me because I have acted very foolishly.”

(11)   When David got up in the morning, the Lord spoke his word to the prophet Gad, David’s seer. (12) “Go and tell David, ‘This is what the Lord says: I’m offering you three choices. Choose the one you want me to do to you.’ ”

(13)   When Gad came to David, he told David this and asked, “Should seven years of famine come to you and your land, or three months during which you flee from your enemies as they pursue you, or should there be a three-day plague in your land? Think it over, and decide what answer I should give the one who sent me.”

(14)   “I’m in a desperate situation,” David told Gad. “Please let us fall into the Lord’s hands because he is very merciful. But don’t let me fall into human hands.”

(15)   So the Lord sent a plague among the Israelites from that morning until the time he had chosen. Of the people from Dan to Beersheba, 70,000 died. (16) But when the Messenger stretched out his arm to destroy Jerusalem, the Lord changed his mind about the disaster. “Enough!” he said to the Messenger who was destroying the people. “Put down your weapon.” The Messenger of the Lord was at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite.

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (GW) The weapons we use in our fight are not made by humans. Rather, they are powerful weapons from God. With them we destroy people’s defenses, that is, their arguments 5   and all their intellectual arrogance that oppose the knowledge of God. We take every thought captive so that it is obedient to Christ.

Psalm 19:14 (GW) May the words from my mouth and the thoughts from my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my defender.

Ezekiel 36:26 GW  I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove your stubborn hearts and give you obedient hearts.

"The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy." This is how wise people build their lives on the rock of Jesus Christ. Foolish men are not so, they build their lives on the sand of earthly wisdom. Are you a wise man or a wise guy?

Facebook: No recording.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/1nKI75n0_Us?t=1739

Isaiah 55:6-7 (GW) Seek the Lord while he may be found. Call on him while he is near. (7) Let wicked people abandon their ways. Let evil people abandon their thoughts. Let them return to the Lord, and he will show compassion to them. Let them return to our God, because he will freely forgive them.

Intro to the series on "No Hell Below Us?". "The Value of Suffering" and "The Missionary From Tartarus" teach us about pain and suffering - something we all experience in the here and now. How can we turn negative experiences like these into a force for our own good and the good of others? Make pain and suffering your ally. They are a tool God has given you to develop a fear of Him that leads to peace, wisdom, and hope in this life, no matter how much pain and suffering you need to endure.

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/478647526421906/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/0HCV4FAybK4?t=1554

Romans 15:4 (GW) Everything written long ago was written to teach us so that we would have confidence through the endurance and encouragement which the Scriptures give us.

We are accustomed to living within time restraints, by our doing or by the imposition of others. This causes unnecessary stress in our lives. We will run out of time. How do we number our days to gain a heart of wisdom in light of our fleeting days? Are we living in view of the day "when time is no more"?

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1550981418425867/
(Audio is a bit jittery in some parts)

YouTube: https://youtu.be/n_Obm8e6tjc?t=1147

This is the 10th and final episode dealing with the prayers Paul writes in his letters in the New Testament. In this prayer, we deal with what pleases God: praying for all people, especially for those in government and anyone in authority, for the purpose of spreading the Gospel in peace and quietness and by living in godliness and holiness. God wants all people to be saved and to come to know the truth. In order for us to be counted as partners with God in this venture, we need to align our will to God's in praying, petitioning and interceding on behalf of others with grateful hearts and a deep understanding of every good thing we have in Christ (Philemon 1:6).

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1280611192138817/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/3YD1Selfths?t=1447

Galatians 6:9 (GW) We can’t allow ourselves to get tired of living the right way. Certainly, each of us will receive ⌜everlasting life⌟ at the proper time, if we don’t give up.

Hebrews 11:6 (GW) No one can please God without faith. Whoever goes to God must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

When Jesus said "Truly truly I say to you..." what did He mean by that phrase? Listen in and be encouraged by 5 fundamental truths that are non-negotiable for God. They are freeing, saving and empowering for those who put their faith in Jesus Christ! 

No FaceBook Video Link

YouTube: https://youtu.be/WEKQK8GOmJc?t=1620

1 John 3:18-20 GW  Dear children, we must show love through actions that are sincere, not through empty words.  (19)  This is how we will know that we belong to the truth and how we will be reassured in his presence.  (20)  Whenever our conscience condemns us, we will be reassured that God is greater than our conscience and knows everything.

God has made us what we are. He has created us in Christ Jesus to live lives filled with good works that he has prepared for us to do.

Ephesians 2:10 God's Word Version

Episode 9 of Prayers in the New Testament - This is a prayer to bring about revival in your congregation - giving us the winning divine formula for the gospel to spread rapidly and be honored. Let the message ring out! 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/bUiJfD0LBW0?t=1805

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/487771678763136/

Episode 8 of Prayers in the New Testament - How to make sure you have gained enough spiritual momentum in your life to get you through the trials and tribulations that will continue to sharpen your focus and get you on track for Jesus to be glorified in you. 

YouTube: (audio not 100% but understandable) https://youtu.be/EsDXoNZMw_A?t=1508

FaceBook: (audio not 100% but understandable) https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/703597346798026/

The New Testament has 5 Trustworthy Sayings told to Timothy and Titus, Evangelists of the Lord's Church, by the Apostle Paul. These are fundamental principles for every church leader to hold near and dear to his heart, and for all Christians to dwell on as they "fight the good fight"!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/lvNv8j8nmNA?t=1402

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/675836872942536/ 

This is Episode 6 of Prayers in the New Testament, a prayer found in the letter to the Colossians - Praying that we may be filled with spiritual understanding, bearing good fruit in every good work, strengthened with all power, and giving joyful thanks.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/5BLH0xyj7Vs?t=1722

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/775773792844180/

How do you determine priorities in life? What are God's priorities for you? Would I be OK if my priorities don't match God's priorities?  What can I do about it?

YouTube: https://youtu.be/6J_p5H4IpiY

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1347743015374120/

This is Episode 5 of Prayers in the New Testament, the second prayer found in the letter to the Philippians - Praying that our love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that we may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/l56DZKF0rEA

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/2489263957776186/

What gives you joy? What/who do you seek? In this episode, we will explore prayers of confidence in Christ's work in us. It matters who we trust!  Our joy is affected by where we put our trust. Our confidence needs to be in the work God will complete in us if we are faithful!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/5EsA3QxBhd0

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/509791033131748/

Praying consistently, turning to the spiritual instead of the flesh and the worldly, is how we keep ourselves sober and alert. Don't allow evil tendencies and your passions to derail you and make you fall asleep to the reality of Christ's love. Be on your guard and ready to fight the spiritual forces of evil that prowl around ready to devour!

YouTube: https://youtu.be/UE0IgTp-2xc

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/537459930324242/

Prayers of POWER - To be strengthened with unearthly power, from above and from within, by the Holy Spirit. So that Jesus dwells in our heart and we may get to know His profound love - to know that this love surpasses knowledge! 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Wv3NN4HHxCg 

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/2454834057942471/ 

Ephesians 1:17-19 - Praying for Wisdom, Revelation, and Enlightenment;  to know the hope to which you've been called, the riches of His inheritance and the immeasurable power available to all believers. 

YouTube: https://youtu.be/jKsjexvWGHk 

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/LongIslandChurchOfChrist/videos/1338602086309408/

The Divine Swap: God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so  that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. - 2 Co 5:21.

God so loved the world - a love unknown to us which God was to manifest  in the person of Jesus to show the full extent of His love by a unique  sacrifice that still leaves us in awe.

An exchange takes place  when the believer is baptized, placing his faith in this sacrifice. God  takes away the believers sin and bestows righteousness that is not his -  the righteousness of Christ!

What gets in the way of proper adulting? The Heart. We confuse our "yes's" and our "no's". We lose integrity because we get too proud and manipulated by our passions. As parents we need to teach our children the difference between "yes" and "no" before they turn 1. We need to teach them to say "yes" and "no" with conviction and respect others when they say "yes" and "no". With this training we teach them to make correct choices and work as a team with others who may have differing opinions. All this promotes confidence and trust in God.

Wisdom and training are needed in order to be influential on social media in a godly way. Satan capitalizes on our greed and curiosity - he makes worldliness attractive. What can you do to get your child's heart longing for God instead of the world and become a force for good? Take a listen. 

Jesus' prayer in John 17 shows His care and focus on unity. To be part of the answer to His prayer we need to make sure we are members of His body, taking up His mission to preach the Gospel. The Spirit was given to us to help us in our weakness because we don't know how to pray. We will examine a passage that gives us a new acronym for prayer in 1 Tim 2:1. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can be effective ambassadors, interceding for one another and being the beacons God uses to continue to gather the elect into the body of Christ.

Jesus teaches us how to deal with abandonment and rejection when He was at the lowest point of His life on Earth. Accepting our human vulnerabilities is a major lesson Jesus illustrates with His life. Salvation is found when we accept our humanity, including our lot and the vulnerabilities that come with it, and humble ourselves before God. When we own the hurt of life, God teaches us to use our humbling experiences to minister to others and help them in their time of need, as He does with us. 

Who is more powerful, a lion or a lamb? A roaring lion or a slaughtered lamb? It may seem obvious to you, but things are not as they seem. Jesus teaches us about power when He washed His disciple's feet. Would you let Jesus wash your feet? Those who refuse His foot washing have no part with Him. Those who let Jesus wash their feet continuously purify themselves and will sit at His feet in heaven. These are those who understand that true power empowers and who are willing to humble themselves as Jesus did. 

 You can also watch the sermon on our YouTube Channel:
https://youtu.be/1KkqfWGd7HI

Jesus says, "I am making everything new!" (Revelation 21:5). Here in the world people are always looking for the next big thing; the next upgrade, the latest and the greatest. All we can imagine here pales in comparison to what God is preparing for us. When Jesus was transfigured on the mountain the curtain of this virtual life is peeled back and we see something eternal for a brief moment. A look at what's coming? A peek at Humanity 2.0? Listen in to see what we can learn from this moment in Jesus' life. 

You can also watch the sermon on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LicocOrg 

Jesus was undeterred in His loyalty towards us. Even when facing opposition, ridicule and death threats, He was not deterred in accomplishing His goal for our sake. He makes an invitation for us to come to Him and surrender ourselves to His yoke, so that rivers of living water can flow from us. Jesus wants to make us sources of living water for many around us as we share His good news. 

Here's the sermon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JKlwAipx2kM