Working Together

Message by Guest Speaker Rueben Popet

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Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9

Rueben and Karen Popet founded Beraca Ophanage in 2000. The orphanage is located in  in southwestern Romania. It is a home which provides care, education, spiritual guidance, and love for children.

Today Ruben speaks to us about accomplishing great things as we come together with a focus on the Kingdom of God.

Bearing Fruit That Will Last

Message by Guest Speaker, Janine Geekie

Scripture: John 15:16

Janine Geekie

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Janine is a missionary to Japan. Prior to her speaking, the following video on Fuse Jesus Community was played.

Janine on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/zenezene

Living Out the Incarnation

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 5:14-21

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Most of us think of the Incarnation as an event—that moment when Christ came to earth, took on human flesh and lived as a man (John 1:14). As important as the event is to everything we believe about Jesus, we need to see the Incarnation as God’s agenda and calling for our lives. The theology of the Incarnation means nothing if we do not allow its truth to transform our lives. The apostle Paul tells us our call to be an “ambassador” for Christ defines what it truly means to live incarnate lives that demonstrate the glory of God (2 Corinthians 5:20).

1) Ambassadors live only for the One whom they are called to represent! 2 Corinthians 5:14 – For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.

Paul direction toward two motivating forces that enable us to live for Christ

• The power of the Cross.
• The compelling force of God’s love.

2) Ambassadors have a redemptive outlook on relationships! 2 Corinthians 5: 16-17 – Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

• We see Christ differently.
• We see ourselves differently.
• We see others differently.

3) Ambassadors do the hard work of reconciliation! 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 – Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, … Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. Ambassadors do the hard work of reconciliation

• Ambassadors look at others redemptively
• Ambassadors take the initiative to restore relationships
• Ambassadors do what is necessary to restore relationships

Introduction to Proverbs

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

First in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 1:1-7

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Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,  But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Solomon the author

Solomon means “peaceable” (2 Samuel 12:24)
Son of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:24)
Becomes king over Israel (1 Kings 1:30-53)
He rules the kingdom by wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-9)
He is the wisest man in his day (1 Kings 4:29; 1 Kings 10:1-6)
Prolific writer and composer (1 Kings 4:32)
He is a man of great wealth (1 Kings 10:14-23)
Commissioned to build the temple (1 Kings 5:5)
Great downfall (1 Kings 11:4-5)

The book of Proverbs – Proverbs is “wisdom” literature

• philosophical wisdom
• practical wisdom
• truisms not promises
• principles more than methods

Proverbs is all about wisdom (Proverbs 4:7) - wisdom, understanding, instruction, knowledge

Wisdom is not “intellect” but “life smarts”
The wisdom of Proverbs is anticipated in Jesus (Colossians 2:3)
Wisdom is living your life under the Lordship of Christ

Wisdom begins with the “fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7)
The “fear of God” is both an Old and New Testament concept
(2 Corinthians 7:1; Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Peter 1:17)

Loving the Congregation

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Final Message in the Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16

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This week we conclude our year long study of the Book of 1^st Corinthians. Throughout this series we have covered some of the more complex issues in all of Scripture, including the Cross, church splits, immorality, gender confusion, lawsuits, alcohol, feminism, and spiritual gifts, to name a few. In closing Paul speaks from his heart as a pastor who shares some important concerns with his congregation.

A pastor’s concern for continued grace giving Now regarding your question about the money being collected for God’s people in Jerusalem. You should follow the same procedure I gave to the churches in Galatia. On the first day of each week, you should each put aside a portion of the money you have earned. – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2

Grace giving principles: sacrificial, regular, cheerful & proportional (2 Corinthians 8-9)

His concern for all the ministry demands For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. – 1 Corinthians 16:9

(pastoring, missions, Christian counseling & conciliation)

Paul’s concern for good leaders And if Timothy comes, see that he may be with you without fear; for he does the work of the Lord, as I also do. Therefore let no one despise him. – 1 Corinthians 16:10-11

Recognize, receive & respect (Hebrews 13:17)

A pastor’s concern for strong men Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. – 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

GracePoint should be a “man factory” – Boys come in and men go out!

If There is a Resurrection, What Do We Gain?

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:20-58

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The church in Corinth was immersed in a Greek culture that did not believe in the resurrection of the dead. When Paul preached at Athens and declared the fact of Christ’s resurrection, some of his listeners laughed at him and considered him mad (Acts 17:32). This skeptical attitude against the resurrection had invaded the church and Paul had to address it. In this section Paul deals with several important questions regarding the resurrection.

If Jesus did not rise from the grave what do we loose?
(1 Corinthians 15:12-19)

• No one will ever beat death.
• The apostle’s teaching and preaching is a lie.
• The Christian faith is worthless.
• Sin cannot be forgiven.
• Christians are hopeless fools.
• There is no hope beyond the grave.
• Christians are the most pitiful people on earth.

If Jesus rose from the grave what do we gain in eternity?
(1 Corinthians 15:20-28)

• We gain a resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:51-53)
• We belong to Christ and not Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45, 46, 49)
• We will live forever with Christ in His kingdom (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
• Sin, Satan & death have been conquered (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)

What are the implications of the resurrection in this life?
(1 Corinthians 15:29-35)

• We can die in the hope and faith of eternity with Christ
• We can live this life with an eternal perspective

Paul addresses the real problem concerning the resurrection. Some people resisted the idea of a resurrection for so called academic reasons saying it did not make sense or was not logical. However, Paul argues that resistance to believing in the resurrection is really not an academic issue but a heart issue. The truth is people love their sin more than they love God’s truth and His gospel. Paul calls them to come to their senses through repentance of sin and embrace an eternal vision.

If There is No Resurrection…

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-19

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Christianity is the largest religion in the history of the world with billions of followers who worship Jesus Christ as God. Unlike the founder of any other religion, Jesus declared Himself to be God and then proved His divinity through His resurrection from death as the only person to ever defeat the grave. Thus, the entirety of the Christian faith is built upon the historical fact of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Simply, if Jesus did not rise from death then Christianity is not merely a well-intentioned error, but a deceitful delusion of the worst kind. In Chapter 15, Paul addresses questions concerning the resurrection of Jesus Christ, by proving its validity and demonstrating its power.

The Gospel succinct
(1 Corinthians 15:3-4)

• Jesus died
• Jesus was buried
• Jesus rose from the grave

The proofs of the resurrection
(1 Corinthians 15:4-11)

• Historical evidence, death, burial & resurrection
• Peter’s eye witness testimony
• Jesus appeared to the twelve disciples
• James the brother of Jesus believed
• Paul the persecutor of the church was transformed

The devastating implications if Jesus did not rise from the grave
(1 Corinthians 15:12-19)

• No one can overcome death (verses 12-13)
• The apostles teaching is worthless (verses 14-15)
• Christianity is a worthless faith (verse 14)
• Our sins cannot be forgiven (verse 17)
• Christians are hopeless fools (verse 19)
• There is no hope beyond the grave (verse 18)
• Christians live the most miserable life of all (verse 19)

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 10)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14

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The flow of the church service is a key factor in determining the release of a congregation’s life and ministry. Our gatherings can be fruitful or frustrating and the difference is found in how we understand and apply key the principles of corporate worship. The Corinthians were very zealous and exuberant when it came to the worship service, but they often expressed their worship carelessly and selfishly by misusing and abusing the spiritual gifts. They needed balance and wisdom and so Paul gives three principles that must be a part of every worship service.

Edification 1 Corinthians 14:1-5

• Why prophecy is the greater gift.
• Prophecy is greater than tongues in the corporate worship service because everyone is edified.

The problem in Corinth was not the gift of tongues, but the attitude of the worshipers who exalted their personal experience above the edification of others.

Understanding 1 Corinthians 14:6-25

Three examples:

1. Musical instruments,
2. The commands of a trumpet
3. Plain, understandable conversation

The speaker must strive to make his message understandable so believers can be instructed and worship together and non-believers can understand the message that God is speaking to them.

Order 1 Corinthians 14:26-40

Guidelines for tongues

1. Tongues must be interpreted
2. The message in tongues must be judged
3. They should speak one at a time not more than three

Guidelines for prophecy

1. Limit the number to three prophecies
2. Prophecy must be judged
3. Prophets must be gracious and submissive
4. Prophecy should be given in orderly fashion
5. The prophet must exercise self-control
6. The operation of the gifts should create an atmosphere of peace

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 9)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14

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Definition
The Bible defines speaking in tongues as the ability to praise and pray to God in a language unknown to the speaker.

Blessings that come through the gift of speaking in tongues:

1. Tongues glorifies God in personal devotion and prayer. (1 Corinthians 14:2)
2. Tongues edifies the believer. (1 Corinthians 14:4)
3. Tongues has both a public and private expression. (1 Corinthians 14:3-5)
4. Tongues is a sign to unbelievers. (1 Corinthians 14:22)

Definition
Prophecy in its simplest from is divinely inspired and anointed utterance.

There is a difference between the Old Testament office of the Prophet and the New Testament gift of prophecy. (1 Samuel 3:20; 1 Kings 18:36; 2 Kings 6:12; Haggai 1:1)

Old Testament Prophets heard, spoke and wrote divine revelation.

The Scripture warns against false prophets

• They claim to speak for God
• They often perform counterfeit signs
• They point to false gods.

Principles for the New Testament Gift of prophecy:

1. The New Testament does not elevate the “gift of prophecy” to the same level of authority as the Scripture.
2. The gift of prophecy is often the teaching and preaching ministry of the Scriptures in the Church. (1Corinthians 14:4-7)
3. Prophecy can be a revelation about a future event that God in tend to reveal to the entire church. (Acts 11:28-29)
4. Prophecy is sometimes a word from God given to an individual. (Acts 21: 10-11)
5. Prophecy should be tested and approved by church leaders. (1 Corinthians 14:29-30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22)

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 8)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13

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I Corinthians 13 is known by many people as the “Love Chapter.” However, it is also greatly misunderstood. Many people read it without considering the context. Chapter 13 is not a theological treatise on love. Nor is it just sentimental instruction on Christian charity. The context is spiritual gifts and Paul is telling us the true motive for doing spiritual gifts (ministry) must be love.

The evidence of spiritual maturity is not demonstrating the greatest gifts, but its loving Jesus and loving people.
1 Corinthians 13:1 – Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.

Love is the standard for doing ministry together in the church!
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 – Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails.

Love must dictate the culture of the church
The dictionary defines culture as “the sum of attitudes, customs and beliefs that distinguish one group of people from another. Culture is the relational environment that we create as we do ministry together.

What makes up a church’s culture?

• Focusing on kingdom values (Matthew 13:46)
• A people who truly know God (Daniel 11:32; Acts 4:13)

Assessing the eternal value of love
1 Corinthians 13:8-9 – But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part.

• Maturity discerns between the eternal and temporal
• The Perfect is Jesus
• Continue in faith, hope and love

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 7)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:8-11

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The Gift of the word of knowledge / Definition
The gift of the Word of Knowledge is divine revelation of certain facts in the mind of God that He imparts to believers so that we can know what God knows and respond accordingly.

General make up of the gift
These people have a thirst for the knowledge of God’s truth and it motivates them to studying and prayer to understand the Scriptures. However, more than just wanting head knowledge they desire God’s revelational knowledge of certain divine facts that when shared, imparts a clear sense of God’s will in to the situation.

Examples from the Bible

• The prophet Elisha (2 Kings 6:12; 5:21)
• The ministry of Jesus (John 1:47-48)
• The apostle Peter (Acts 5; Acts 10)

Do you have the gift?

1. Do you have desire for the knowledge of God’s Word that motivates you to pray and study the Scriptures continually?
2. In studying God’s word have you found new insights and understanding, even when it comes to difficult subjects?
3. Do you have a strong prayer life and often sense God speaking to you during times of devotion and communion?
4. Do you desire to see people set free from sin and bondage and long for people to have a strong God-awareness in their life.

The Gift of discerning of spirits / Definition
The spiritual gift of discerning of spirits is the ability to perceive whether such things as people, events or beliefs are from God or Satan.

General make up of the gift
Those with the gift of discerning of spirits are acutely aware that there are two forces at work in the world today.. .the kingdom of God and the kingdom of darkness. They understand that Satan and his demons love to disguise themselves as angels of light and often use copies and counterfeits of God’s work to deceive people.

Examples from the Bible

• Jesus (Matthew 4:1; Mark 1:5; 5:1-9)
• Peter (Acts 5:1-10; 10:19)

Do you have the gift?

1. Do you feel a special responsibility to protect the truth of God’s Word by exposing error?
2. Do you love righteousness and hate sin?
3. Do you have a strong sense that if you yield to temptation it could open the door to Satan’s influence?
4. Do you often make a careful evaluation of someone or something that was said, that others did not see, but yet proved to be correct?

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 6)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: I Corinthians 12:9-10 “…to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles..”

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The Gift of Faith / Definition

The gift of faith is the ability to envision what needs to be done and then to trust God to accomplish it even though it seems impossible to most people.

Different from…

Saving faith & the fruit of faith

Mark 11:22-23 – So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. 23 For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.

General make up of people with the gift of faith

• They believe the impossible is possible
• They are convinced that God performs His Word
• Great encouragement to the Body of Christ
• People always borrow their faith

Examples from the Bible

• The life of Jesus (Luke 22:42; 23:46)
• The heroes of faith (Hebrews 11)
• The life of Paul (Acts 27)

The gift of faith is given…

• For the faithful not the faithless
• At the moment we need it
• In connection with God’s purpose
• For others to borrow

Do you have the gift of faith?

1. Do you view obstacles as opportunities and trust God for the impossible?
2. Do you love to boast about the power of God?
3. Are you motivated by new ministries?
4. Do you get frustrated with people who say something can’t be done?
5. Do other believers come to you to borrow your faith?
6. Do you have an effective prayer ministry?

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 5)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: I Corinthians 12:9-10 – “To another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles.”

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How are you applying this series?

• Are you filled with the Spirit?
• Are you using the gift(s) God has given you?
• Are you moving forward or looking backward?

Avoiding two extremes

God can’t! Or God must!

But our God is in heaven; He does whatever He pleases. (Psalm 115:3)

The Working of Miracles / Definition

The ability to call on God to do extraordinary, supernatural acts that reveal His power.

Examples from the Bible

• The Life of Jesus (John 20:30)
• The example of Stephen (Acts 6:8)

Errors concerning miracles

• Self promotion
• The assumption that anointing means approval
• The lust for power
• Demanding a sign

Do you have the gift of working of miracles?

The Gifts of Healings / Definition

The ability to call on God to heal the sick through supernatural means for the purpose of revealing God’s grace and power.

Examples from the Bible

• The Life of Jesus (Matthew 4:23, 24)
• The example of Peter (Acts 6:8)
• The example of Paul (Acts 19:11, 12)

Errors concerning healing…

• God doesn’t heal today…
• We shouldn’t use doctors or medicine
• Healing should only be done at church service
• If you love God and walk by faith you never get sick

Do you have the gift of healing?

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 4)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:8-10

As we consider the gifts of the Holy Spirit, it is important to remember that Jesus is our best model for understanding spiritual gifts.

• Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35)
• Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:21-22)
• Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1)
• Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:14)
• All His ministry was Spirit empowered and directed (Luke 4:18)

Gifts are given…

• To promote the Lordship of Christ (verses 2-3)
• By the Trinity (verses 4-6)
• To benefit others (verse 7)
• By God’s appointment (verse 11)

I Corinthians 12:9 – to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles,

Avoiding the extremes
God can’t! and God must!

The Gifts of Healings / Definition
The ability to call on God to heal the sick through supernatural means for the purpose of revealing God’s grace and power.

The Working of Miracles / Definition
The ability to call on God to do extraordinary, supernatural acts that reveal His power.

The Gift of Faith / Definition
The ability to envision what needs to be done and then to trust God to accomplish it even though it seems impossible to most people.

General Makeup

• Trust God in impossible situations
• Believe God for big things
• Futuristic Change oriented
• Totally convinced of God’s Word

Illustrated
Jesus (Luke 1:37) Paul (Acts 27)

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 3)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:7-10

For the past two weeks we have been considering important principles that Paul gives to help us understand the use of spiritual gifts. This week we actually begin studying the “gifts.” As we consider the gifts of the Holy Spirit, it is important to remember where it all began. Acts chapter two gives us the account of the Spirit of God being outpoured on the Day of Pentecost.

Fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy at Pentecost

And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. (Acts 2:17-18)

Marked the Spirit’s outpouring on all flesh

Announced the beginning of the “last days”

Established the norm for the Spirit’s gifting and activity in the church

Gifts of Revelation

• A Word of wisdom
• A Word of knowledge
• Discerning of spirits

Gifts of Power

• The gift of faith
• The working of miracles
• The gift of healing

Gifts of Inspiration

• Prophecy
• Different of tongues
• Interpretation of tongues

The Word of Wisdom

for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, (1 Corinthians 12:8)

Definition: The gift of the word of wisdom is God’s supernatural insight given to the believer about people and situations that is not obvious to the average person and it comes with the understanding of what to do and how to do it.

All Christians are called to search for and learn wisdom from God. (Ephesians 1:16-17, James 1:5)

Demonstrated in the life of Jesus (Luke 2:40-52)

Illustrated in Scripture: Joshua (Deuteronomy 34:9) Daniel (Daniel 2:17) Solomon (1 Kings 3:5)

Do you have the gift?

Do you find that when you counsel people,  God by His Spirit, gives you wisdom to share with them from Scripture, which they accept as God’s truth to them through you?

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit (Part 2)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-26

In this section of Scripture we come to one of the most exciting portions of the New Testament. Paul addresses the subject of the Holy Spirit’s gifting in the church, empowering the believers to do the ministry Jesus had begun when He was on earth and now to be continued in the church. Jesus is our greatest example of what it means to be Spirit filled, Spirit led, Spirit empowered and Spirit gifted!

What do we need to understand about spiritual gifts?

• Spiritual gifts are different from natural talents
• There are several lists of spiritual gifts in the New Testament
• We are each given different gifts and different portions of gifts
• We must be open to serving outside our area of gifting
• God gives us passion and opportunities to assist our gifting
• Every gift must be cultivated to be effective in ministry

Spiritual gifts serve the Lordship of Jesus
Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 12:3)

Spiritual gifts are given and administered by the Trinity
There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)

Spiritual gifts each exist to benefit the whole church
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. (1 Corinthians 12:7)

Four principles of corporate edification:

• Unity (1 Corinthians 12:12-13)
• Diversity (1 Corinthians 12:14-17)
• Interdependence(1 Corinthians 12:18-21)
• Value (1 Corinthians 12:22-26)

Spiritual gifts are appointed by God
But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. (1 Corinthians 12:11)

The Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:2-16

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. (1 Corinthians 12:7)

In this section of Scripture we come to one of the most exciting portions of the New Testament. Paul addresses the subject of the Holy Spirit’s gifting in the church, empowering the believers to do the ministry Jesus had begun when He was on earth and now to be continued in the church. Jesus is our greatest example of what it means to be Spirit filled, Spirit led, Spirit empowered and Spirit gifted!

• Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35)
• Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:21-22)
• Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1)
• Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:14)
• All His ministry was Spirit empowered & directed (Luke 4:18)

Jesus sends the Holy Spirit upon the church so believers can continue the very same ministry He began.
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” (John 14:12; Acts 1:8)

What we need to understand about spiritual gifts!
Spiritual gifts are different from natural talents
There are several lists of spiritual gifts in the New Testament
We are each given different gifts and different portions of gifts
We must be open to serving outside our area of gifting
God gives us passion and opportunities to assist our gifting
Every gift must be cultivated to be effective in ministry

Spiritual gifts serve the Lordship of Jesus (1 Corinthians 12:2-3)

Spiritual gifts are given and administered by the Trinity (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)

Spiritual gifts each exist to benefit the whole church (1 Corinthians 12:7)

Spiritual gifts are appointed by God (1 Corinthians 12:11)

The Lord’s Supper (Part 2)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34

But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. (1 Corinthians 11:28-2 9)

The Corinthians were making a mockery of the Lord’s Supper. The very observance given to us by Jesus Himself, which was intended to bring believers closer together, was actually causing division and destruction in the Corinthian Church. In this packed portion of Scripture, Paul gives the following directives for the Lord’s Supper.

• It is about Jesus and therefore only for Christians
• It requires prior self-examination and repentance of sin
• It is to honor all Christians as equals in Christ
• It is to be a source of unity and not division among Christians
• It is not to be eaten as a normal meal
• Disregard for these directives may bring God’s judgment.

The Reformed view holds that Christ is present in the Lord’s Supper, but not physically or bodily. Rather His presence in the sacrament is spiritual or dynamic. Calvin said that the Lord is present influentially, and used the sun as an illustration. Just as the sun remains in the heavens and its light and warmth affect the earth, so too Christ’s presence in the Lord’s Supper is spiritual and not physical. So it’s the radiance and the power of the Spirit that conveys on us the communion of the Lord’s flesh and blood. (Romans 8:9-11).

How do we remember Christ’s death and rightly discern His Body?

• By Looking Back (1 Corinthians 11:23-26a)
• By Looking Ahead (1 Corinthians 11:26b)
• By Looking Within (1 Corinthians 11:27-28, 31-32)
• By Looking Around (1 Corinthians 11:33-34)

Created and Redeemed For Right Relationship

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:2-16

In 1 Corinthians 11, we come to the section of Scripture where Paul addresses the issue of gender. Some of the most important but controversial theological debates in all of Christianity today center around the issues of gender; such as marriage, feminism, homosexuality, lesbianism etc. These issues are at the forefront of our culture today and everybody wants to debate them. Certainly the church needs to know what the Scriptures have to say concerning these things. Speaking through Paul, God provides principles that are applicable to similar problems in our own day.

Three positions on gender:

• Egalitarianism
• Hierarchical Chauvinism
• Complimentarian Chivalry

Paul’s reasoning from Scripture:

• Creation (11:8-9)
• Redemption (11:2-12)
• Nature (11:13-16)

What does Creation teach us?

1. Men and women are equal, both created in God’s image. (Genesis 1:26)
2. God has given men and women different roles. (Genesis 2:18)
3. All that God made is very good! (Genesis 1:31)
4. Sin, not gender has caused the conflict and confused the roles between men and women. (Genesis 3:16)

What does Redemption teach us?

1. The Trinity models right relationship (1 Corinthians 11:3)
2. Men and women must respect godly authority (1 Corinthians 11:4-9).
3. Angels provide us an example for authority (1 Corinthians 11:10).
4. Men and women need each other (1 Corinthians 11:11-12).

What does nature teach us?

Men should be masculine and women should be feminine. Gender roles and identity are defined by Scripture not culture. (1 Corinthians 11:13-16)

Created In His Image and Glory

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:2-9

In 1 Corinthians 11, we come to the section of Scripture where Paul addresses the issue of gender. Some of the most important but controversial theological debates in all of Christianity today center around the issues of gender; such as marriage, feminism, homosexuality, lesbianism, etc. These issues are at the forefront of our culture today and everybody wants to debate them. Certainly the church needs to know what the Scriptures have to say concerning these things. Speaking through Paul, God provides principles that are applicable to similar problems in our own day.

Three positions on gender

Egalitarianism
Hierarchical Chauvinism
Complimentarian Chivalry

Paul’s reasoning from Scripture

Creation (11:8-9) Redemption (11:2-12) Nature (11:13-16)

What does Creation teach us?

• Men and women are equal, both created in God’s image. Genesis 1:26 – Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
• God has given men and women different roles.
  • Head (1 Corinthians 11:3-9)
  • Helper (Genesis 2:18)
• All that God made is very good! (Genesis 1:31)

Men make culture, culture doesn’t make men.

• Sin, not gender has caused the conflict and confused the roles between men and women. Genesis 3:16 – Your desire shall be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.”

What does Redemption teach us?

• The Trinity models right relationship (1 Corinthians 11:3)

Genesis 3:14-15

Glorifying God

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:23-33

When we come to this section of 1 Corinthians Paul revisits a theme he had brought up earlier in his letter. It is the issue of being good missionaries to our community and city. Whenever the Church exists in a culture that is not rooted in Christ or the truth of Scripture, Christians must constantly live with the tension of trying to relate to their culture for the sake of the Gospel and yet remain faithful to Christ and His kingdom. And that means there all kinds of practical decisions we must make on a daily basis about the way we present Christ to our world. Paul reminds us of several very important responsibilities as good missionaries.

1. Obey God’s Word: Is something permissible? 1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful;
2. Obey your conscience: Is it wise to do? 1 Corinthians 10:23b all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify.
3. Demonstrate God’s love: Will others be edified? 1 Corinthians 10:24 Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being.
4. Be a good evangelist: Will this help bring others to Christ? 1 Corinthians 10: 31-33 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
5. Bring Glory to God! Will we be happy? 1 Corinthians 10: 31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

A. You were created for God’s glory (Isaiah 43:7)
B. All life is an opportunity to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31)
C. People often choose happiness over glory (Romans 3:23)
D. True happiness is impossible apart from God’s glory
E. Your highest joy is found in God alone

“The chief end of man is to glorify God by enjoying Him forever.” (Westminster Confession / John Piper)

The Most Important Information! The Gospel of Jesus Christ

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

We live in an age of mass information and we are constantly bombarded with the need to know more! There is a constant influx of information from countless sources, all clamoring for our attention. But did you ever stop to think: What is the most important information to know? Paul tells us plainly in these first few verses of 1 Corinthians 15 the most important information to posses is contained the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul gives us five line of powerful evidence to prove the Gospel is true and of supreme importance

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is “good news!”
It has the power to save us!
It is for everyone!
It must be believed, received and stood upon!

1. Christ died! 1 Corinthians 15:3 – For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.
2. Christ was buried! 1 Corinthians 15:3 – and that He was buried.
   
3. Christ rose from the dead! buried! 1 Corinthians 15:4 – and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.
4. Christ appeared to many eyewitnesses! 1 Corinthians 15:5-8 – and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.
5. Christ by His grace continues to transform lives! 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 – For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am…

Resisting Idolatry

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:1-14

When we come to chapter ten of First Corinthians, Paul gives a very strong warning to the Corinthians. Paul is writing to a group of Christians who were over confident in their ability to overcome temptation. Paul uses the Old Testament example of Israel’s failure in the wilderness to warn the believers of the dangers of sin and in particular the sin of idolatry. Paul gives several specific warnings but his main concern is the sin of idolatry which is the root of all other sin.

1st Warning: Privileges are no guarantee to success. (verses 1-4)

2nd Warning: Good beginnings do not guarantee a good finish. (verses 5-9)

3rd Warning: Don’t be deceived by sin: God can enable us to overcome if we obey His Word. (verses 11-13)

4th Warning: Flee from idolatry (verses 7 and 14)

Idolatry is a root issue to all other sin.

Martin Luther’s understanding of the Ten Commandments

Jesus points us to the heart (Ezekiel. 36:25, Luke 6:43-45)

We are inherently worshipers! Idolatry is simply inverted worship. (Genesis 1:26-28, Romans 1:21-26)

The human heart is an idol factory (John Calvin)

The Slippery Slope of Idolatry

Desire

Demand

Expectation

Disappointment

Judgment

Punishment

How do we free ourselves from idolatry?

• Recognize – see and name your idols (Jeremiah 17:9)
• Repent – confess your false gods and break them (I Thessalonians 1:9)
• Replace – worship Jesus as your only true Savior & Lord (John 4:23)
• Rejoice – through Jesus, idols are exchanged for the real God (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Living to Preach the Gospel

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:19-27

One of the important questions facing the church is: What is the role of the church in regards to mainstream culture?

1. Our greatest gift to culture is the Gospel of Jesus Christ
   1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.
2. We must be faithful to contend for the Gospel 1 Corinthians 1:17 – For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect.
   
   Pit Bull Christianity is dangerous!
3. We must be willing to apply the Gospel to different cultures
   1 Corinthians 9:19 For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more… Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.
   
   How do we contextualize? Consider the Gospel writers: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Every culture has aspects to be; rejected, received and redeemed.
4. We must allow the Gospel to transform us personally
   1 Corinthians 9:24 – Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Respecting Your Pastor

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9

For some reason many people imagine pastoral ministry to be some kind of dreamy life; filled with endless hours of Bible reading; prayer walks with Jesus; and unbroken seasons of singing worship songs and all the time smiling. Statistically however, being a pastor is one of the most hazardous professions to pursue. Some believe being involved in full time ministry is the spiritual equivalent of being a kamikaze pilot, diving into the heartbreak of people’s brokenness, crisis, conflict and criticism. Certainly the apostle Paul experienced the pain of ministry firsthand. In this section he speaks directly about a proper relationship between a pastor and a church and gives us three broad principles.

1. A Good Pastor Is Worthy of Respect

1 Corinthians 9:1 – Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord? If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

2. A Good Pastor is Worthy of a Decent Wage

1 Corinthians 9:4 – Do we have no right to eat and drink? Do we have no right to take along a believing wife, as do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working?

Paul argues from human experience (verse 7)

Paul argues from Old Testament Law (verses 8-10; Deuteronomy 25:4)

1 Corinthians 9:14 – Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.

3. There May Be Times When It Is Right To Lay Aside One’s Wages

1 Corinthians 9:12 If others are partakers of this right over you, are we not even more? Nevertheless we have not used this right, but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ.

• For the sake of the Gospel (verses 15-18)
• For the sake of unbelievers (verses 19-23)
• For the sake of oneself (verses 24-27)

1 Corinthians 9:1 – Am I not an apostle? Am I not free? Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord? If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.

The Lord’s Supper

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:14-17

There are many ways to view human history. Some people say that the best way to study history is by talking about important people, key events or even God’s covenants. However, one of the unique ways of looking at human history is looking at how Scripture speaks of five important meals.

1st Meal – Man eats alone
And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:16-17)

2nd Meal – The Lord’s Passover
And thus you shall eat it: with a belt on your waist, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand. So you shall eat it in haste. It is the LORD’s Passover.
(Exodus 12:7-11)

3rd Meal – The Last Supper
And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.
(Luke 22:19-20)

4th Meal – Communion
The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
(1 Corinthians 10:16)

Choosing the Higher Principle

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

In every church some of the most contentious arguments can arise over issues of different Christian liberties. While the issue in the Corinthian Church was “meat offered to idols” the issues in our own day would include things such as drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, listening to secular music, etc. Christians must always remember they exist in a much wider culture context than just the local church to which they belong. We are called of God to be missionaries into the world, which means there are going to be a lot cultural issues that are going to be highly controversial. We need to know what is acceptable and unacceptable for a Christian when it comes to God’s Word and we need to know how to get along when our convictions differ over matters of conscience. Paul takes us back to the model of Christ and he reminds us of four things about Christian liberty.

Avoiding the errors of sectarianism and syncretism (John 17:15)

1. We need the right knowledge. Corinthians 8:1 – Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. 2 And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know.
2. We need to obey our conscience. 1 Corinthians 8:7 – However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.
3. We need to be honest about our weaknesses and strengths? Romans 14:4 – Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand.
4. We need to practice the highest principle! 1 Corinthians 8:8 – But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor f we do not eat are we the worse.

What about… Alcohol? Cigarettes? Secular music?

Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage, Part 2

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:10-24, 39-40

Three weeks ago we began a two-part message on Marriage Divorce and Remarriage. In addressing each of these subjects we want to try and answer some common questions that people have on this whole issue. First we dealt with the question concerning marriage.

What does the Bible tell us about marriage?

1. 1. God made marriage for one man and one woman. (Genesis 2:22-25)
2. God designed marriage to be a permanent union of “oneness” that is not to be broken. (Genesis 2:23-24; Matthew 19:4-6)
3. Marriage is a covenant. (Malachi 2:14; Proverbs 2:17; Ecclesiastes 5:4)
4. 4. A marriage is one in which the husband commits himself to providing for his wife’s and children’s well-being. (Exodus 21:10; Ephesians 5:28-29; 1 Timothy 5:8)
5. A husband is accountable for his family’s well-being and conduct. (Genesis 3:9; Ephesians 5:22-23; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Peter 3:1-7)
6. God hates divorce. (Malachi 2:16)

Six important questions regarding Divorce and Remarriage

1. What constitutes the legitimate ending of a marriage?
   1. Death of a spouse (1 Corinthians 7:39; Romans 7:2-4)
   2. Adultery (Matthew 5:32; 19:8)
   3. Non-Christian leaves (1 Corinthians 7:12-1 6)
   4. Treason or Betrayal (Matthew 19:9)
2. What will the elders do if my Christian spouse insists on divorcing me? (Mark 10:11-12; Romans 7:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 27)
3. Does this mean women must endure an abusive relationship? (1 Peter 3:7)
4. Can I remarry after divorcing an adulterer? (Matthew 19:19; Mark 10:10; Luke 16:18)
5. What if I divorced my spouse because of domestic violence, child abuse or abandonment—can I remarry?
6. What if I was divorced as a non-Christian?

Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage, Part 1

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:10-24, 39-40

In our society, marriages fail under a wide range of circumstances. Many people have gone through a divorce before having a relationship with Christ, and others have experienced divorce through no desire or decision of their own. Still others may have divorced because of their own wrongful choices, but have since experienced the repentance and forgiveness offered through our Lord Jesus.

The myth of divorce
No one is harmed
It’s better for the children
It ends the relationship

1. God made marriage for one man and one woman (Genesis 2:22-25)
2. God designed marriage to be a permanent union of “oneness” that is not to be broken (Genesis 2:23-24; Matthew 19:4-6)
3. Marriage is a covenant (Malachi 2:14; Prov. 2:17; Ecclesiastes 5:4)
4. A marriage is one in which the husband commits himself to providing for his wife’s and children’s well-being (Exodus 21:10; Ephesians 5:28-29; 1 Tim. 5:8)
5. A husband is accountable for his family’s well-being and conduct (Genesis 3:9; Ephesians 5:22-23; Col. 3:18-21; 1 Peter 3:1-7)
6. God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16)

Our commitment at GracePoint of Webster to protect marriage!

Singleness, Curse or Blessing?

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:7-9, 25-36

In the opening verses of the chapter Paul address those who are married, but in this section he gives some very important instruction to those who are single. Nationally, about half of American adults over the age of 21 are single. While over 90% of all single people do get married, leaving less than 10% who will never marry, the number of single people in our society continues to increase.

Reasons for growing number of singles in our nation:

1. people are waiting longer to get married
2. more people are sexually active before marriage
3. more couples getting divorced
4. the death of a spouse

Theologically, marriage is God’s preferred norm. Yet both marriage and singleness are God’s gift.
(Genesis 2:18; Matthew 19:4-6; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Timothy 4:1-3; Proverbs 18:22)

Practically, there may be some very important reasons why people might want to remain single.

Paul exhorts singles to… be Thankful!
1 Corinthians 7:7b – But each one has his own gift from God,

…be Pure!
1 Corinthians 7:8 – So I say to those who aren’t married and to widows—it’s better to stay unmarried, just as I am. But if they can’t control themselves, they should go ahead and marry. It’s better to marry than to burn with lust.

…be Wise!
1 Corinthians 7:25 -31 vs. 26 …Because of the present crisis,

…be Devoted!
1 Corinthians 7:32 I want you to be free from the concerns of this ljfe…. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with
as few distractions as possible.

The Right Kind of Sex

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:1-6

There was tremendous confusion in the Corinthian Church concerning marriage. Because of the rampant immorality in their culture and in the church; the high divorce rate, widespread homosexuality and mass gender confusion; problems with slavery; and celibacy, most people had a very low view of marriage.

• 1 Corinthians 7:1 – Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
  Some believe Paul himself had a low view of marriage. But Paul is not telling the men that they shouldn’t get married, because that would contradict what the Scripture teaches. (Genesis 2:18; Matthew 19:4-6; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Timothy 4:1-3; Proverbs 18:22). Paul is not condemning marriage, nor sexual relations in the marriage. But rather he condemns sex before marriage in the church and in society.
• 1 Corinthians 7:3 – Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband.
  Paul’s says in a Christian marriage each partner has an obligation to fulfill their mate’s sexual needs and desires. There should be a mutual giving of ourselves in sexual love and intimacy to one another continually. This is God’s design for a strong and happy marriage.

• 1 Corinthians 7:4 – The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.
  Paul is simply saying the wife does not have authority over her own body because she has released, or given herself completely to her husband. And the husband does not have authority over his own body because he has released, or given himself completely to his wife.

• 1 Corinthian 7:5 – Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of
  your lack of self-control.

Sex is for pleasure (1 Corinthians 7:3)
Sex is for procreation (Genesis 1:26-28)
Sex is for companionship and oneness (Genesis 2:18)
Sex is for comfort (2 Samuel 12:
Sex is for protection (1 Corinthians 7:5)
Don’t allow Satan room in the marriage!

The Wrong Kind of Sex

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

The believers in Corinth were young new Christians who came in to the kingdom with all kinds of sexual experiences and lifestyles. They were confused about morality, gender issues and things concerning the physical body. Even though they were God’s people, they had a lot of beliefs and ideas that were totally incongruent with Christianity. They had very little understanding about what it meant to be righteous, holy, children of God. So Paul is dialoguing with them in this letter and refuting some of the misguided thinking they had about sexuality and morality. Paul addresses several misconceptions these believers had.

1. I am free in Christ to do whatever I want. 1 Corinthians 6:12 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
2. We are just physical, material beings, therefore sex is just meeting a need. 1 Corinthians 6:13 Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods, but God will destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power.
3. It’s my body, I can do with it whatever I want. 1 Corinthians 6:13b Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power.
4. What I do sexually is a private matter and doesn’t affect anyone else. 1 Corinthians 6:16 Or do you not know that he who is joined to a harlot is one body with her? For “THE TWO,” He says, “SHALL BECOME ONE FLESH.” But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.

Dealing with Christian Conflict

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:1-8

In this section Paul is addressing the issue of how Christians were completely disregarding Christian love. And they were using the court system established by the Greeks to sue one another. And Paul has to rebuke them, because their conduct was destroying the testimony of Christ in the community.

Christ’s principles on dealing with conflict. (Matthew 18:7)
Conflict is inevitable
Conflict is an opportunity to glorify God.
Resolving conflict biblically is a great witness.

Church relationship draw sometimes draw into business matters.
What are we to do when those business arrangements go wrong?

Christians should always seek to resolve trivial (secondary) disputes among themselves and not rush off to court. (1 Corinthians 6:1)

Christians should call on the resources of the church to help in such conflicts. (1 Corinthians 6:2-5)
Negotiation, Mediation, Arbitration

1. Paul makes a difference between “trivial matters” and “criminal” matters. (1 Corinthians 6:1-8; Romans 13:1-7)
2. The church should handle “trivial matters,” the secular courts should handle “criminal matters.”
3. Paul does not imply that the church has a right to cover up crimes or protect criminals.
4. Paul does not forbid Christians from filing a law suit against a non-Christian.
5. Christians should always do what is right for the Gospel.

Abuses at Corinth

• They were destroying the testimony of Christ!
• They failed to live up to their potential in Christ!
• By trying to resolve conflicts in court, everyone was loosing!

When The Church Needs Discipline

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not As God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 5:1-8

When we come to chapter five, Paul deals specifically with one of the more troubling sins in the church. To understand what was going on in the church you need to understand what was going on in the city. Corinth was a city with a very long history of sexual perversion that permeated the culture. The life style and culture was steeped in immorality. There was open tolerance for alternative sexuality and worse yet there was great pride in their sexual freedom. The very term “Corinthianize” meant someone who was involved in a sexually perverted lifestyle. And so anything that you could think of, but shouldn’t think of that is happening in our present day – was taking place in Corinth.

Two important questions we must answer:
What constitutes sexual immorality?
How should the church respond to unrepentant Christians?

1. As Christians we should have the right action and attitude toward sin!

1 Corinthians 5:1-2 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and such sexual immorality as is not even named among the Gentiles – that a man has his father’s wife! And you are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he who has done this deed might be taken away from among you.

Our culture misunderstands freedom, tolerance and acceptance!

2. The Church must judge Christians who are unrepentant of their sin.

1 Corinthians 5:3-5 For I indeed, as absent in body but present in spirit, have already judged (as though I were present) him who has so done this deed. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when you are gathered together, along with my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

3. Churches become increasingly weak and even sinful when they fail to judge sin in the church.

1 Corinthians 5:6-8 Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover was sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Loving The Church Like A Father

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:14-21

In this section of Scripture Paul painfully reveals his head of a father for the Corinthians. He had labored hard to birth the church in Corinth. He had given them an excellent model to follow. And now they are returning the favor with an arrogant attitude that is refusing to listen to their father. And so like a good father, Paul sternly instructs the church, calling them to repentance or face discipline. Paul makes a series of analogies between parenting and pastoring. Basically he says that being a good pastor or a good leader is very much like being a good father.

1. Like good fathers, pastors love the people.

1 Corinthians 4:14 I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

Fathers love by caring
Fathers love by understanding
Fathers love by bearing the burden
Fathers love by disciplining when necessary

2. Like a good father, pastors provide an exemplary lifestyle.

1 Corinthians 4:15 for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Therefore I urge you, imitate me.

Example is the most powerful rhetoric. (Thomas Brooks)

3. Like a good father pastors are not just all talk.

1 Corinthians 4:18 Now some are puffed up, as though I were not coming to you. But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord wills, and I will know, not the word of those who are puffed up, but the power. For the kingdom of God is not in word but in power.

4. Like a good father, pastors must be willing to confront sin.

1 Corinthians 4:21 What do you want? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and a spirit of gentleness?

The Kind Of Leaders The Church Needs

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:1-15

The issue of leadership is paramount in the church. The problem that Paul was experiencing in the Corinthian church was there were all kinds of people aspiring for leadership, but they had no idea know how to be godly Christian leaders. They were taking cues from non-Christian sources. Where do we get our example of Christian leadership? Do we opt for the business model? Or do we take our prompts from the entertainment world? The Corinthians were confused about Paul’s leadership and so the apostle gives them four powerful images of the Christian leader to help them understand the kind of leaders the Church needs.

1. The Obedient Servant
1 Corinthians 4:1 Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ…
“servant” here means under-rower

2. The Faithful Steward
1 Corinthians 4:1b …and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover
it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.

There are always three judgments in the life of a steward.

• There is man’s judgement (4:3).
• There is his own judgement (4:3b-4a)
• Most importantly there is God’s judgment (4:4b)

3. The Humble Spectacle

1 Corinthians 4:9 For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men.
Paul said as ministers we became “spectacles.” In other words they were the “last act,” the leftovers after the main event.

4. The Loving Father
1 Corinthians 4:14 I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel

• A father loves by beginning the family.
• A father loves by setting an example for the family.
• A father loves by disciplining his children.

Why Should We Love The Church?

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16-23

The Corinthian Christians were reeling from controversy and divisions in their young urban church. So Paul, the church founder, writes this letter in an effort to contend for their survival. In this section Paul argues that the greatest threat to the church is usually from those forces from within and not from without: Its from enemies who join the ranks of the believing. Most importantly, we learn from 1 Corinthians chapter 3 that God cares very much for the church—even the messed up ones. Paul had a deep concern for the church and we should care too. Without a deep love for the church we can become the cancer that spreads through the church body that causes weakness and poor health.

Three things you need to know about the church

1. The Church Comes At A Great Cost
2. The Church Is Always Under Attack
3. The Church In America Is Struggling

Three Questions That Paul Answers In These Verses:

1. Why Should We Care About The State Of The Church?
1 Corinthians 3:16 Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?  If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.

2. What Causes Someone To Destroy A Good Church?
1 Corinthians 3:18 Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “HE CATCHES THE WISE IN THEIR OWN CRAFTINESS”; and again, “THE LORD KNOWS THE THOUGHTS OF THE WISE, THAT THEY ARE FUTILE.”

3. How Can A Church Prevent Its Own Destruction?
1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours: whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come—all are yours. And you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s.

What are We Building? (Part 2)

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:7-23

Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are God’s family, God’s field and God’s temple. In the metaphor “temple” the primary thought Paul is trying to convey is the building of the local church. Many Christians only see the church and Christianity from an individual perspective. Paul gives us six principles to help us understand the importance of building church according to God’s plan. The first three we dealt with last week. Today we will look at the remaining three.

Principle #4 We Must Build With The Right Materials!
1 Corinthians 3:12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear;

Paul described two opposite kinds of building materials. Wood, hay and stubble – represents that which is passing, temporary, ordinary, common, cheap, easy to find. Gold, silver and precious stones – represents that which is permanent, beautiful, valuable and rare. There are some materials that are worthless and there are some materials that are valuable, lf you want to build something that will last… you have to build with valuable materials

Proverbs 24:3 Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety.

How do we find wisdom?
Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.

We ask God!
James 1:5 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.

We must learn humility
Psalm 25:4 Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day……25:9 The humble He guides in justice, And the humble He teaches His way.

We must keep seeking!
Proverbs 2:4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints.

Principle #5 We Must Build For Eternity!
1 Corinthians 3:14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.

Paul warns us that everything we do both as Christians and churches will one day be judged by Jesus much like a building inspector coming for final inspection. Some things may appear to be very successful to you and me as look on, but on that day, the Day of Judgment, Jesus is going to come to destroy all the work that has not been built upon Him.

Principle #6 We Must Build With The Right Motive!
1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours: whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come – all are yours.

The motive that must guide everything in our life is the glory of God.

The members of the Corinthian church were glorifying men instead of Christ and that was wrong. If they would have been seeking to glorify God alone, there would have been harmony in the assembly.

What are We Building? (Part 1)

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:7-23

The Corinthians had become selfish and immature causing them to loose sight of their mission to make their church an effective outreach to their city. In this chapter Paul instructs them with three powerful metaphors to guide them back to a right understanding of what God has called them to be and do. He reminds the Corinthians that they are God’s family God’s field and God’s temple. The metaphor Paul uses in verse 9 of the “temple” paints an obvious picture of a building. The usual explanation for this passage is that Paul is describing the building of the Christian life. And while there is an individual application to these verses, the primary thought that Paul is trying to convey is the building of the local church. Many Christians only see the church and Christianity from an individual perspective. Paul gives us six principles to help us understand the importance of building church according to God’s plan. Today we’ll look at the first three.

Principle #1 – The Church Belongs To God!
1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.

Principle #2 – The Leaders Of The Church Must Be Good Builders!
1 Corinthians 3:10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation,

Principle #3 – We Must Build On The Right Foundation!
1 Corinthians 3:11 For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Are We Mature Yet?

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:1-7

Although the Corinthians are Christians they are slow to repent of their sin and obey God. Paul likens them to an immature baby, stubbornly keeping some ways of thinking and acting that are from their former way of life, which are unfitting for their new life in Jesus Christ. In this lesson, Paul identifies three key areas that greatly hinder Christian growth. He then directs their focus away from themselves and back to Jesus and the work He has appointed the church to do.

What does a true Christian look like?

• Jesus is both Savior and Lord
• Christians can be carnal
• Being A Christian implies change

What kind of progress are you making?

1 Corinthians 3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in Christ.

• In what areas of your life have you experienced spiritual growth?
• What areas of your life are still immature?
• Is there an urgency to see godly change take place?

What are the things that hinder spiritual growth?

1 Corinthians 3:2 I fed you with milk and not with solid food; for until now you were not able to receive it, and even now you are still not able; 3 for you are still carnal. For where there are envy, strife, and divisions among you, are you not carnal and behaving like mere men? For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not carnal?

• Poor spiritual diet
• Failure to process our needs in God’s grace
• Hero making instead of team building

Do we truly see God as the source of all things?

1 Corinthians 3:5 Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7 So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.

• God is the Gardener
• Jesus is our Great Example of growth
• The Bible is the Gardener’s handbook
• The Church is God’s Garden

Are We Spiritual Yet?

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended It!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

In the church there are all kinds of different ideas as to what it means to be spiritual. To some Christians knowing the Scripture is considered a mark of spirituality. To some it’s being filled with the Holy Spirit, or speaking in tongues. To others it’s the idea of being missional. And so the questions persist. What does it mean to be spiritual? How does someone become spiritual? This is an important issue, because we live in a very spiritual culture that is not a very Christian. Likewise, the city of Corinth was a very spiritual city, but not a very Christian. Even the Christians in the church of Corinth were having huge disagreements over what it meant to be spiritual. Paul tries to clear up all their misunderstanding by telling them being spiritual simply means that we are filled with, led by and empowered with the Spirit of God. And so in this section, Paul is going to focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit and he will teach us four-fold process.

God the Holy Spirit works through a preacher…
1 Corinthians 2:1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

Who teaches spiritual truths…
1 Corinthians 2:9 But as it is written: “EYE HAS NOT SEEN, NOR EAR HEARD, NOR HAVE ENTERED INTO THE HEART OF MAN THE THINGS WHICH GOD HAS PREPARED FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM.’’ But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit.

Using spiritual words…
1 Corinthians 2:10b For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit offend. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been freely given to us by God. These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing (combining) spiritual things with spiritual.

To produce spiritual people.
1 Corinthians 2:14 But the natural men does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself rightly judged by no one. For ‘‘WHO HAS KNOWN THE MIND OF THE LORD THAT HE MAY INSTRUCT HIM?” But we have the mind Christ.

Boasting In Jesus

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended It!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31

The Corinthians were struggling with the offense of the Gospel. Here was a young, hip, urban church in the midst of a very “cool” culture and Christianity was anything but cool. And these Christians were struggling with what other people thought about Christ and the Gospel. And the truth is this is major problem in our day. How we are perceived by others sometimes can make us feel uncomfortable. And the question is how do we respond to that as a Christian? We want to believe in Christ and follow God, but at the same time we don’t want others to think you are a total freak. And so the pressure is on to find a way to still serve God and go to heaven and still be cool…as if that were even possible.

The foolishness of the Gospel: 1 Corinthians 1:18
Martin Luther’s theology of glory versus a theology of the Cross.

Worldly wisdom verses God’s wisdom: 1 Corinthians 1:19-21

• The wise (the expert)
• The scribe (the interpreter and writer)
• The disputer (the philosopher and debater).

Responses to the Cross: 1 Corinthians 1:22-25

• Some stumble
• Some laugh
• Some worship

The true reason why God chose us: 1 Corinthians 1:26-28

Don’t be ashamed! 1 Corinthians 1:29

• Some change the message
• Some refuse to speak the message
• Some are more proud of themselves than Christ

Our greatest boast is Jesus! 1 Corinthians 1:30-31

The Church Belongs To Jesus (Part 2)

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended It !

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:10-17

We are studying the book of 1 Corinthians, a letter written to one of the worst churches in the Bible and perhaps in all of history. Paul wrote the letter as a sharp rebuke to address the major problems in the church. Last week we briefly outlined some of the problems Paul addresses in his letter. There was defilement in the people; disunity in the church and there was disgrace in their testimony. In the verses that we will discuss today, Paul begins to address this problem of disunity.

CONSIDER THIS!

Jesus promised to establish the church (Matt. 16:18) and He is praying that we will always be unified (John 17:20).

A Call For Unity! 1 Corinthians 1:10

Unity is not absolute tolerance of all people, perspective and views.
Unity is not uniformity.
Unity at GracePoint is…

• Theological
• Relational
• Philosophical
• Missional

A Call For Maturity! 1 Corinthians 1:11-12

Personality cults cause division.
We need the proper respect for leaders.
We can have preferences but not prejudice.
We want to encourage diversity but not division.

Who Does the Church Belong To? 1 Corinthians 1:13

Is Christ divided?
Was Paul crucified for you?
Were you baptized in the name of Paul?

Our Main Priority Is To Preach The Gospel! 1 Corinthians 1:17

The Church Belongs To Jesus (Part 1)

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended It!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9

Today we start a brand new series in the book of 1 Corinthians. Christianity, Not the Way God Intended It To Be. Ironically, we have just finished the series on 1 Thessalonians, one of the best churches in the New Testament. When we study 1 Corinthians we are going to see that it is actually one of the worst churches in that we find in the Bible.

Introduction to our author, the Apostle Paul

Radically saved and called by God (Acts 9)

Becomes a Missionary and Church Planter (Acts 13-28)

Plants the church of Corinth about 50 A.D. (Acts 18)

His first letter to the church is lost (1 Corinthians 5:9)

He writes what we now call 1 Corinthians in 57 A. D.

Corinth was a church of many problems

“defiled, divided and disgraced”

The Church needs spiritual leadership!
Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, (1 Corinthians 1:1)

How To Pray For Missions

Guest Speaker Steve Chulick and his wife Carolyn are missionaries to India

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Click photo to go to the Chulicks' page on GlobalMessenger.org

Scripture: Romans 8:26 & 1 Corinthians 14:14

Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us^[a] with groanings which cannot be uttered.

For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. ¹⁵ What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding.

• Pray for Nations – Psalm 2:8 – - – - Internet Resources: JoshuaProject.net and OperationWorld.org

• Pray for Missionaries - Romans 15:30
• Pray for Unbelievers – 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Presentation of the Chulicks’ ministry in India:

Music played during the presentation: “Before The Throne Of God Above” by Invocation