1 00:00:00,000 --> 00:00:04,800 Well, good morning and happy, slightly early Thanksgiving. 2 00:00:04,800 --> 00:00:07,500 I hope you're excited about giving thanks this Thursday 3 00:00:07,500 --> 00:00:09,100 with whoever you are celebrating with, 4 00:00:09,100 --> 00:00:12,600 be it family or friends or fellow church members. 5 00:00:12,600 --> 00:00:14,000 Last Sunday, if you were with us, 6 00:00:14,000 --> 00:00:17,100 we talked about the importance of doing this well, 7 00:00:17,100 --> 00:00:20,800 making sure that we slow down in our lives long enough 8 00:00:20,800 --> 00:00:23,700 to really consider how blessed we are 9 00:00:23,700 --> 00:00:26,200 and how much we have to be thankful for, 10 00:00:26,200 --> 00:00:27,900 especially as we talked about last Sunday 11 00:00:27,900 --> 00:00:31,100 about relative to Christians in other eras 12 00:00:31,100 --> 00:00:34,400 who lived under much less favorable conditions. 13 00:00:34,400 --> 00:00:35,800 And I got some really good feedback 14 00:00:35,800 --> 00:00:37,000 from last Sunday's message. 15 00:00:37,000 --> 00:00:39,800 People talked about how it was helpful in reminding you 16 00:00:39,800 --> 00:00:44,100 about all the little details that you rarely think about, 17 00:00:44,100 --> 00:00:45,600 ways that God has blessed you. 18 00:00:45,600 --> 00:00:47,300 And even though you may think, 19 00:00:47,300 --> 00:00:49,000 well, there's still some areas of my life 20 00:00:49,000 --> 00:00:51,700 which I wish were easier or better, 21 00:00:51,700 --> 00:00:53,400 whether it's your job, your finances, 22 00:00:53,400 --> 00:00:56,700 your living situation, your dating life, whatever it is, 23 00:00:56,700 --> 00:00:59,100 it's so easy to get wrapped up in those things 24 00:00:59,100 --> 00:01:03,100 that we want so badly and forget and take for granted 25 00:01:03,100 --> 00:01:05,700 the many gracious gifts that the Lord gives us 26 00:01:05,700 --> 00:01:07,100 each and every day. 27 00:01:07,100 --> 00:01:09,800 So as I said last week, giving thanks is nothing new to us. 28 00:01:09,800 --> 00:01:11,200 That is not a new concept. 29 00:01:11,200 --> 00:01:14,200 It's something we all realize is important, 30 00:01:14,200 --> 00:01:17,400 but because we are so forgetful as a people 31 00:01:17,400 --> 00:01:20,000 and because we're so busy as a people, 32 00:01:20,000 --> 00:01:22,400 it is important for us to be reminded often, 33 00:01:22,400 --> 00:01:23,800 not just one day of the year, 34 00:01:23,800 --> 00:01:26,800 but reminded often about how much we have 35 00:01:26,800 --> 00:01:30,000 and how little we deserve it. 36 00:01:30,000 --> 00:01:31,700 And so I hope based on last Sunday 37 00:01:31,700 --> 00:01:32,900 and what you're gonna hear this morning, 38 00:01:32,900 --> 00:01:35,900 you'll be more and more prepared to celebrate well 39 00:01:35,900 --> 00:01:38,400 on Thursday when you give thanks. 40 00:01:38,400 --> 00:01:41,100 Now, let's talk about today's message. 41 00:01:41,100 --> 00:01:42,100 Hold onto your seats. 42 00:01:42,100 --> 00:01:45,300 This morning, I want to continue our Thanksgiving theme 43 00:01:45,300 --> 00:01:46,500 in a very unique way. 44 00:01:46,500 --> 00:01:49,500 We are going way outside the normal box 45 00:01:49,500 --> 00:01:51,300 together this morning. 46 00:01:51,300 --> 00:01:54,200 This is something that I've actually done twice 47 00:01:54,200 --> 00:01:57,300 in the 17 plus years of the life of our church. 48 00:01:57,300 --> 00:01:59,700 Both times it seems to have been a blessing 49 00:01:59,700 --> 00:02:02,700 to our congregation, so we'll see what happens today. 50 00:02:02,700 --> 00:02:04,700 What I want to do this morning is read to you 51 00:02:04,700 --> 00:02:08,900 a pastoral letter that is uniquely adapted 52 00:02:08,900 --> 00:02:11,800 to this body of believers. 53 00:02:11,800 --> 00:02:14,800 And the model for this letter actually comes from a letter 54 00:02:14,800 --> 00:02:17,200 that you will find in your Bibles. 55 00:02:17,200 --> 00:02:19,300 It's Paul's letter to the Colossian Church. 56 00:02:19,300 --> 00:02:22,000 So before I just jump in and read this, 57 00:02:22,000 --> 00:02:23,300 why don't you grab your Bibles 58 00:02:23,300 --> 00:02:27,000 and let's actually go to the book of Colossians 59 00:02:27,000 --> 00:02:29,500 and just take a quick note, just a glance, 60 00:02:29,500 --> 00:02:30,800 we don't have a lot of time, 61 00:02:30,800 --> 00:02:34,300 at how the book of Colossians is structured. 62 00:02:38,500 --> 00:02:41,500 Go to the very first chapter of Colossians. 63 00:02:41,500 --> 00:02:43,000 As you arrive there, you're gonna find 64 00:02:43,000 --> 00:02:46,700 that it has only four chapters, so it's not a long letter, 65 00:02:46,700 --> 00:02:50,500 but it is packed full of practical instructions 66 00:02:50,500 --> 00:02:53,300 and encouragement, not just for the church back then, 67 00:02:53,300 --> 00:02:55,800 but for the church even today. 68 00:02:55,800 --> 00:02:58,500 Just a couple notes about the background here. 69 00:02:58,500 --> 00:03:01,000 Recall that Paul wrote this letter to the believers 70 00:03:01,000 --> 00:03:04,900 in this somewhat rural city of Colosse, 71 00:03:04,900 --> 00:03:07,900 at a time when he was serving a prison sentence 72 00:03:07,900 --> 00:03:09,800 in a Roman jail. 73 00:03:09,800 --> 00:03:11,800 Let's also remember that Paul did not plant 74 00:03:11,800 --> 00:03:13,600 this particular church. 75 00:03:13,600 --> 00:03:15,400 This was not one of his church plants, 76 00:03:15,400 --> 00:03:17,200 and in fact, there's no evidence he ever 77 00:03:17,200 --> 00:03:20,700 actually visited Colosse or met the believers 78 00:03:20,700 --> 00:03:23,300 in that community, which raises the obvious question, 79 00:03:23,300 --> 00:03:25,900 well then, how did they get a letter? 80 00:03:25,900 --> 00:03:27,800 That's one of the great things I wanna know in heaven. 81 00:03:27,800 --> 00:03:29,000 Well, Lord, how did you decide 82 00:03:29,000 --> 00:03:31,700 which churches actually got a letter? 83 00:03:31,700 --> 00:03:33,500 Well, it appears that the church was planted 84 00:03:33,500 --> 00:03:37,300 by a friend of Paul's, a coworker named Apaphras, 85 00:03:37,300 --> 00:03:39,700 who was a native to that area. 86 00:03:39,700 --> 00:03:41,900 Sometime around the year AD 58, 87 00:03:41,900 --> 00:03:46,400 Apaphras traveled to Rome to visit Paul in prison, 88 00:03:46,400 --> 00:03:49,500 both to encourage him and to get some counsel 89 00:03:49,500 --> 00:03:52,200 from the great apostle concerning a few issues. 90 00:03:52,200 --> 00:03:55,500 So Paul then wrote back to the believers in Colosse, 91 00:03:55,500 --> 00:03:58,500 addressing the issues that Apaphras brought to him, 92 00:03:58,500 --> 00:04:00,800 but in general, challenging them 93 00:04:00,800 --> 00:04:02,900 to keep growing spiritually 94 00:04:02,900 --> 00:04:06,100 and to keep growing in their devotion to Christ. 95 00:04:06,100 --> 00:04:09,400 Now, the structure of Colossians is actually very easy 96 00:04:09,400 --> 00:04:11,900 to follow in terms of its flow and logic. 97 00:04:11,900 --> 00:04:13,500 I'll put a few things on the screen 98 00:04:13,500 --> 00:04:16,500 just so that you can understand the basic flow, 99 00:04:16,500 --> 00:04:19,800 and this is gonna help you as I read my pastoral letter, 100 00:04:19,800 --> 00:04:21,500 I think it's gonna help you understand 101 00:04:21,500 --> 00:04:23,700 why I've included what I've included, 102 00:04:23,700 --> 00:04:26,800 because it follows the same natural flow. 103 00:04:26,800 --> 00:04:28,300 So if you look at chapter one, 104 00:04:28,300 --> 00:04:30,000 again, this is gonna be quick at a glance, 105 00:04:30,000 --> 00:04:32,300 you'll see that Paul starts out with a theme 106 00:04:32,300 --> 00:04:34,900 that's very important for the season we're in right now, 107 00:04:34,900 --> 00:04:36,300 prayer and thanksgiving. 108 00:04:36,300 --> 00:04:39,500 And then if you wanna circle this, at verse 15, 109 00:04:39,500 --> 00:04:41,500 there's a shift in tone. 110 00:04:41,500 --> 00:04:42,900 You guys like to mark up your Bibles? 111 00:04:42,900 --> 00:04:44,200 This is a good place you can write a line 112 00:04:44,200 --> 00:04:46,200 or circle verse 15. 113 00:04:46,200 --> 00:04:49,700 Paul transitions, shifts to some of the most important 114 00:04:49,700 --> 00:04:52,600 and highest Christology that you will find 115 00:04:52,600 --> 00:04:54,400 in the entire New Testament, 116 00:04:54,400 --> 00:04:58,000 the theme being this, the preeminence of Christ. 117 00:04:58,000 --> 00:05:01,600 And then in verse 24, he finishes the chapter 118 00:05:01,600 --> 00:05:04,100 with a discussion of how he has labored 119 00:05:04,100 --> 00:05:06,500 and suffered on behalf of the gospel 120 00:05:06,500 --> 00:05:09,200 and for the spread of the church in the Greek world. 121 00:05:10,400 --> 00:05:12,000 Then if you look at chapter two, 122 00:05:12,000 --> 00:05:14,500 and again, we're going quickly through this, 123 00:05:14,500 --> 00:05:16,800 you'll see Paul walk through an extensive teaching 124 00:05:16,800 --> 00:05:20,400 on how believers in the church need to be rooted 125 00:05:20,400 --> 00:05:24,300 and built up in Christ and knit together in love. 126 00:05:24,300 --> 00:05:26,200 And then there's a transition at verse 16 127 00:05:26,200 --> 00:05:30,500 where he addresses a particular legalistic heresy 128 00:05:30,500 --> 00:05:32,900 that had infected the Colossian church, 129 00:05:32,900 --> 00:05:35,300 and he reminds them that you're free in Christ 130 00:05:35,300 --> 00:05:38,900 and not subject to manmade regulations. 131 00:05:38,900 --> 00:05:40,200 That's chapter two. 132 00:05:40,200 --> 00:05:41,300 If you go over to chapter three, 133 00:05:41,300 --> 00:05:43,200 you see Paul exhorts the believers 134 00:05:43,200 --> 00:05:46,200 to recognize who they belong to. 135 00:05:46,200 --> 00:05:47,500 And since they belong to Christ, 136 00:05:47,500 --> 00:05:49,300 they should put on the new self, 137 00:05:49,300 --> 00:05:52,200 put on a new way of life that reflects 138 00:05:52,200 --> 00:05:55,100 the example that they have in Christ. 139 00:05:55,100 --> 00:05:57,200 Then there's a transition at verse 18. 140 00:05:57,200 --> 00:05:59,900 Paul turns to some very practical topics, 141 00:05:59,900 --> 00:06:02,500 probably something that Epaphras had asked him about, 142 00:06:02,500 --> 00:06:06,000 relationships within the Christian household, 143 00:06:06,000 --> 00:06:09,300 husbands and wives, children and parents, 144 00:06:09,300 --> 00:06:11,500 masters and slaves. 145 00:06:11,500 --> 00:06:13,900 And then finally, take a look at chapter four. 146 00:06:13,900 --> 00:06:16,700 Here's where you see Paul's heart for people 147 00:06:16,700 --> 00:06:18,600 really come out. 148 00:06:18,600 --> 00:06:20,000 He gives final instructions. 149 00:06:20,000 --> 00:06:21,600 He comes back to where he started 150 00:06:21,600 --> 00:06:23,300 with prayer and thanksgiving. 151 00:06:23,300 --> 00:06:27,400 He shares wisdom about how we should deal with outsiders, 152 00:06:27,400 --> 00:06:29,100 how we should relate to them. 153 00:06:29,100 --> 00:06:31,100 And then he sends beautiful greetings 154 00:06:31,100 --> 00:06:33,200 from all of his co-laborers, 155 00:06:33,200 --> 00:06:35,200 letting the believers in Colossae know 156 00:06:35,200 --> 00:06:38,500 how much they are loved by the saints. 157 00:06:38,500 --> 00:06:39,300 So it's beautiful. 158 00:06:39,300 --> 00:06:40,400 It's a beautiful flow. 159 00:06:40,400 --> 00:06:42,500 It's simple. 160 00:06:42,500 --> 00:06:45,700 But now let's get to my letter. 161 00:06:45,700 --> 00:06:48,600 And I want you to hear this really clearly 162 00:06:48,600 --> 00:06:50,800 before I start this morning. 163 00:06:50,800 --> 00:06:54,500 What I'm doing is using Scripture as a guide 164 00:06:54,500 --> 00:06:57,300 to compose a letter to you guys specifically 165 00:06:57,300 --> 00:07:00,900 from God the Father. 166 00:07:00,900 --> 00:07:04,500 Now as I say that, you go, wow, that's dangerous. 167 00:07:04,500 --> 00:07:07,600 You're writing on behalf of God, OK? 168 00:07:07,600 --> 00:07:09,900 Understand, I am not trying to be presumptuous here. 169 00:07:09,900 --> 00:07:12,800 I am not God, obviously. 170 00:07:12,800 --> 00:07:14,700 Ask my wife. 171 00:07:14,700 --> 00:07:17,800 I am not an apostle, obviously. 172 00:07:17,800 --> 00:07:21,300 I am not trying to write holy, inerrant Scripture, obviously. 173 00:07:21,300 --> 00:07:22,400 Make sure you understand that. 174 00:07:22,400 --> 00:07:23,900 And if you're visiting this morning 175 00:07:23,900 --> 00:07:26,300 and you're now frowning your brow, 176 00:07:26,300 --> 00:07:29,400 wondering what's going on, this is a unique Sunday. 177 00:07:29,400 --> 00:07:30,900 Come back next Sunday. 178 00:07:30,900 --> 00:07:32,500 We're going to be in the Gospel of Luke 179 00:07:32,500 --> 00:07:33,500 talking about Christmas. 180 00:07:33,500 --> 00:07:36,400 So just trust me, this is a unique Sunday. 181 00:07:36,400 --> 00:07:38,100 What you're about to hear is my attempt 182 00:07:38,100 --> 00:07:42,600 to adapt the message of Colossians to Oak Hill 183 00:07:42,600 --> 00:07:45,300 and to apply its timeless principles to our lives 184 00:07:45,300 --> 00:07:47,500 together as a church family. 185 00:07:47,500 --> 00:07:48,900 And in the spirit of Thanksgiving, 186 00:07:48,900 --> 00:07:50,600 as we go through this, what I'm going to do 187 00:07:50,600 --> 00:07:52,500 is ask you to pause. 188 00:07:52,500 --> 00:07:54,600 I'm going to put some questions on the screen 189 00:07:54,600 --> 00:07:57,000 about what you're thankful for. 190 00:07:57,000 --> 00:08:00,700 Because we want to get ready to give thanks well this week. 191 00:08:00,700 --> 00:08:02,500 So sit back and relax. 192 00:08:02,500 --> 00:08:05,100 If you want to sort of track with me through the letter, 193 00:08:05,100 --> 00:08:07,100 you can do that or you can just listen. 194 00:08:07,100 --> 00:08:10,700 But make sure you're listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit 195 00:08:10,700 --> 00:08:12,700 as he guides your heart and guides your mind 196 00:08:12,700 --> 00:08:14,000 to track with me. 197 00:08:14,000 --> 00:08:16,100 And my hope is that this morning you'll come out of here 198 00:08:16,100 --> 00:08:20,800 encouraged with hope and joy and most of all with Thanksgiving. 199 00:08:20,800 --> 00:08:22,000 Amen? 200 00:08:22,000 --> 00:08:23,700 All right, here we go. 201 00:08:23,700 --> 00:08:24,900 Chapter one. 202 00:08:24,900 --> 00:08:26,700 How many chapters in Colossians? 203 00:08:26,700 --> 00:08:28,200 A little more. 204 00:08:28,200 --> 00:08:31,000 OK, chapter one is the longest one. 205 00:08:31,000 --> 00:08:33,300 Chapter one. 206 00:08:33,300 --> 00:08:36,600 To the saints in Christ at Oak Hill, 207 00:08:36,600 --> 00:08:40,400 my beloved children in Santa Clarita, grace and peace 208 00:08:40,400 --> 00:08:44,500 to each of you from my heart to yours. 209 00:08:44,500 --> 00:08:46,800 Many prayers for you and for your church 210 00:08:46,800 --> 00:08:50,000 have risen to my throne, especially prayers 211 00:08:50,000 --> 00:08:53,800 of Thanksgiving for the work I'm doing among you. 212 00:08:53,800 --> 00:08:56,400 Since the day I gathered you together and planted Oak Hill 213 00:08:56,400 --> 00:08:59,300 Bible Church, many have heard of your faith 214 00:08:59,300 --> 00:09:03,100 and the fervent love that you have for one another. 215 00:09:03,100 --> 00:09:05,800 I have seen how vibrant your fellowship is 216 00:09:05,800 --> 00:09:08,800 and how you long to serve and care for each other 217 00:09:08,800 --> 00:09:10,800 in many practical ways. 218 00:09:10,800 --> 00:09:14,000 And I see the word of truth is increasing among you 219 00:09:14,000 --> 00:09:17,700 and constantly bearing fruit through the power of my spirit. 220 00:09:17,700 --> 00:09:19,900 You're learning about gospel life from your elders 221 00:09:19,900 --> 00:09:25,300 and your fellow bond servants, Adam and Grant and Dave 222 00:09:25,300 --> 00:09:30,100 and Ross and Ken and the two Jeffs. 223 00:09:30,100 --> 00:09:33,300 They're a group of men who are still a work in process, 224 00:09:33,300 --> 00:09:36,700 but they're faithfully striving to shepherd you well. 225 00:09:36,700 --> 00:09:38,300 They continue to pray for you that you 226 00:09:38,300 --> 00:09:40,600 would be filled with the knowledge of my will 227 00:09:40,600 --> 00:09:43,600 and all spiritual wisdom and understanding. 228 00:09:43,600 --> 00:09:46,600 They desire that you walk each day in a manner worthy 229 00:09:46,600 --> 00:09:50,500 of the one you worship, to please me in all respects, 230 00:09:50,500 --> 00:09:55,600 and to continually increase in knowledge and good deeds. 231 00:09:55,600 --> 00:09:58,200 It is I, the Lord, who gives you the strength and power 232 00:09:58,200 --> 00:09:58,700 to do this. 233 00:09:58,700 --> 00:10:01,800 While your elders serve as good examples for you to imitate, 234 00:10:01,800 --> 00:10:05,500 only I can grant you the power, the endurance, 235 00:10:05,500 --> 00:10:08,800 and the patience that you need as a pilgrim so 236 00:10:08,800 --> 00:10:11,600 journeying through life in a fallen world. 237 00:10:11,600 --> 00:10:13,900 So be thankful and glorify my name, 238 00:10:13,900 --> 00:10:16,700 for I am the one who not only strengthens your walk 239 00:10:16,700 --> 00:10:20,600 but qualifies you to share in the eternal inheritance 240 00:10:20,600 --> 00:10:22,800 of the saints. 241 00:10:22,800 --> 00:10:24,500 Lest you forget, there was once a time 242 00:10:24,500 --> 00:10:26,700 when every single one of you belonged 243 00:10:26,700 --> 00:10:29,400 to the kingdom of darkness. 244 00:10:29,400 --> 00:10:33,400 You were born into it, your nature corrupted by generation 245 00:10:33,400 --> 00:10:36,200 after generation of human sin. 246 00:10:36,200 --> 00:10:37,700 And therefore, on your own, you were 247 00:10:37,700 --> 00:10:41,300 incapable of turning your hearts towards me in faith. 248 00:10:41,300 --> 00:10:47,400 In short, you were lost and helpless and without hope. 249 00:10:47,400 --> 00:10:49,300 But all that's changed now. 250 00:10:49,300 --> 00:10:51,800 Now in Christ, you have redemption, 251 00:10:51,800 --> 00:10:53,300 the forgiveness of sins. 252 00:10:53,300 --> 00:10:54,800 Why? 253 00:10:54,800 --> 00:10:57,000 How did that happen? 254 00:10:57,000 --> 00:10:59,200 Before I laid the foundations of the universe, 255 00:10:59,200 --> 00:11:01,600 I already knew you. 256 00:11:01,600 --> 00:11:04,300 And I purpose to save you, to rescue you 257 00:11:04,300 --> 00:11:06,100 from your hopeless condition according 258 00:11:06,100 --> 00:11:08,300 to my perfect timing. 259 00:11:08,300 --> 00:11:10,100 I delivered you from the deepest pit 260 00:11:10,100 --> 00:11:12,300 and now by my sovereign hand, you've 261 00:11:12,300 --> 00:11:15,100 been transferred from the kingdom of darkness 262 00:11:15,100 --> 00:11:18,100 into the kingdom of my beloved son. 263 00:11:18,100 --> 00:11:21,300 And when I say that all of your sins have been washed away, 264 00:11:21,300 --> 00:11:22,600 I mean it. 265 00:11:22,600 --> 00:11:27,100 Past sins, present sins, even future sins. 266 00:11:27,100 --> 00:11:29,400 Because of the cleansing blood of my son 267 00:11:29,400 --> 00:11:31,200 has been applied to your account, 268 00:11:31,200 --> 00:11:33,200 those sins are buried forever. 269 00:11:33,200 --> 00:11:39,300 There is now no condemnation of this, you can be sure. 270 00:11:39,300 --> 00:11:41,400 Let me pause for a second. 271 00:11:41,400 --> 00:11:43,300 Let's talk about thankfulness. 272 00:11:43,300 --> 00:11:46,900 Are you thankful for the vibrant fellowship here at Oak Hill? 273 00:11:49,800 --> 00:11:52,800 Are you thankful for the team of men the Lord has brought 274 00:11:52,800 --> 00:11:56,800 together as shepherds here? 275 00:11:56,800 --> 00:12:00,200 Are you thankful that God has rescued you, washed away 276 00:12:00,200 --> 00:12:04,100 your sins, and brought you into the kingdom of light? 277 00:12:08,100 --> 00:12:09,100 I'll continue. 278 00:12:09,100 --> 00:12:13,400 Listen, my children, you were purchased at a very high cost. 279 00:12:13,400 --> 00:12:16,100 My son is precious to me, more precious 280 00:12:16,100 --> 00:12:18,200 than you can even understand. 281 00:12:18,200 --> 00:12:20,800 But it was I who crushed him. 282 00:12:20,800 --> 00:12:26,000 It was I who made him a guilt offering for you. 283 00:12:26,000 --> 00:12:27,900 In fact, I was pleased to do this. 284 00:12:27,900 --> 00:12:30,500 That's how much I love you. 285 00:12:30,500 --> 00:12:33,600 But still, you should know how valuable that sacrifice was 286 00:12:33,600 --> 00:12:37,800 and you should never stop contemplating it. 287 00:12:37,800 --> 00:12:39,400 Why is it so valuable? 288 00:12:39,400 --> 00:12:42,900 Because of who Jesus was and is. 289 00:12:42,900 --> 00:12:46,300 You know him by many names, the Christ, the Anointed One, 290 00:12:46,300 --> 00:12:50,200 the Messiah, the Savior, and yes, he is a son, 291 00:12:50,200 --> 00:12:53,800 but not a son as you understand that term on earth. 292 00:12:53,800 --> 00:12:57,800 Many have stumbled over this over the centuries, so beware. 293 00:12:57,800 --> 00:13:00,200 Since the early days of the church, teachers have come 294 00:13:00,200 --> 00:13:02,600 in my name, claiming to speak truth, 295 00:13:02,600 --> 00:13:04,800 but they are wolves among the flock, 296 00:13:04,800 --> 00:13:08,500 because they have not rightly understood the nature of my son. 297 00:13:08,500 --> 00:13:11,900 And by their teaching, many have been led astray. 298 00:13:11,900 --> 00:13:13,500 So let me set the record straight. 299 00:13:13,500 --> 00:13:16,500 When you see Jesus, you see me. 300 00:13:16,500 --> 00:13:21,500 He is my icon, my exact image and likeness. 301 00:13:21,500 --> 00:13:23,200 Beloved, make sure you get this right. 302 00:13:23,200 --> 00:13:25,700 Jesus is not less than me. 303 00:13:25,700 --> 00:13:26,800 He is not a God. 304 00:13:26,800 --> 00:13:28,700 He is fully God. 305 00:13:28,700 --> 00:13:32,200 He is my equal in all of his nature and attributes. 306 00:13:32,200 --> 00:13:35,800 I know this is not easy for your finite minds to fully grasp, 307 00:13:35,800 --> 00:13:38,300 but you must know that it's true. 308 00:13:38,300 --> 00:13:42,700 Trust me, I've declared it so. 309 00:13:42,700 --> 00:13:45,800 My son is also supreme over all creation. 310 00:13:45,800 --> 00:13:49,400 Everything made bows to him. 311 00:13:49,400 --> 00:13:50,700 Why? 312 00:13:50,700 --> 00:13:51,600 It's very simple. 313 00:13:51,600 --> 00:13:53,900 Everything in the heavens and everything on earth 314 00:13:53,900 --> 00:13:57,100 and under the earth found its beginning in him. 315 00:13:57,100 --> 00:13:59,300 He is the agent of all creation. 316 00:13:59,300 --> 00:14:03,000 All things came into being through my son. 317 00:14:03,000 --> 00:14:05,500 That's why the angels bow to him. 318 00:14:05,500 --> 00:14:08,800 And that's why the rebellious demons are subject to him. 319 00:14:08,800 --> 00:14:12,300 Every created thing finds its purpose in him. 320 00:14:12,300 --> 00:14:15,100 He was in the beginning with me before anything 321 00:14:15,100 --> 00:14:16,400 came into existence. 322 00:14:16,400 --> 00:14:21,800 And even now, he holds the created order together, 323 00:14:21,800 --> 00:14:26,500 fixing everything in its proper place. 324 00:14:26,500 --> 00:14:27,600 Let's pause again. 325 00:14:27,600 --> 00:14:33,700 Are you thankful that the Father crushed his one and only son 326 00:14:33,700 --> 00:14:36,800 for your sake? 327 00:14:36,800 --> 00:14:42,200 Are you thankful today that God himself came down to earth, 328 00:14:42,200 --> 00:14:46,400 God himself came down to earth and took on flesh 329 00:14:46,400 --> 00:14:49,500 and suffered to redeem you? 330 00:14:55,100 --> 00:14:56,400 Children, one more thing you need 331 00:14:56,400 --> 00:15:00,700 to remember about my son, he is Lord over the church. 332 00:15:00,700 --> 00:15:02,400 It's his body. 333 00:15:02,400 --> 00:15:04,100 And he is its head. 334 00:15:04,100 --> 00:15:06,400 It belongs to him. 335 00:15:06,400 --> 00:15:08,100 Which church, you might ask? 336 00:15:08,100 --> 00:15:12,600 Well, understand, there is only one true church, 337 00:15:12,600 --> 00:15:15,800 but it's never been found in a particular denomination 338 00:15:15,800 --> 00:15:19,800 or in one particular building or even in one city. 339 00:15:19,800 --> 00:15:23,200 The true church is a vast cross-section of humanity 340 00:15:23,200 --> 00:15:27,700 from every nation, every race, every tribe, and every tongue. 341 00:15:27,700 --> 00:15:31,100 It's made up of those who I have chosen and drawn to myself, 342 00:15:31,100 --> 00:15:34,300 those whose hearts I have regenerated. 343 00:15:34,300 --> 00:15:36,840 And as a result, they've placed their trust in me by faith 344 00:15:36,840 --> 00:15:39,800 alone and not by their good works. 345 00:15:39,800 --> 00:15:42,200 These elect saints belong to my son, 346 00:15:42,200 --> 00:15:45,000 and he will never leave them, he will never forsake them, 347 00:15:45,000 --> 00:15:48,000 and he will never lose any of them. 348 00:15:48,000 --> 00:15:49,900 They will be raised up on the last day. 349 00:15:49,900 --> 00:15:52,200 Count on it. 350 00:15:52,200 --> 00:15:55,800 The plan to save each of you originated in eternity past 351 00:15:55,800 --> 00:15:58,800 according to the counsel of my will. 352 00:15:58,800 --> 00:16:01,100 To accomplish that plan, it was my pleasure 353 00:16:01,100 --> 00:16:04,400 to have all the fullness of the Godhead dwell in my son. 354 00:16:04,400 --> 00:16:09,100 Yes, even as he walked the earth in human flesh. 355 00:16:09,100 --> 00:16:11,700 And as he suffered and died on that Roman cross, 356 00:16:11,700 --> 00:16:15,700 peace was established between you and me. 357 00:16:15,700 --> 00:16:17,000 We are now reconciled. 358 00:16:17,000 --> 00:16:20,700 Does that not bring you great joy? 359 00:16:20,700 --> 00:16:23,900 Beloved, let me expand on this picture of reconciliation 360 00:16:23,900 --> 00:16:28,500 so that you might grasp how deep and wide my love is for you. 361 00:16:28,500 --> 00:16:32,900 There was a time when you were absolutely alienated from me. 362 00:16:32,900 --> 00:16:36,000 You had turned your backs on the whole idea of God. 363 00:16:36,000 --> 00:16:38,700 Your minds were full of hostility towards me. 364 00:16:38,700 --> 00:16:41,000 Your entire life was an act of rebellion 365 00:16:41,000 --> 00:16:44,800 against the very one who created you. 366 00:16:44,800 --> 00:16:47,500 It's hard to believe, isn't it? 367 00:16:47,500 --> 00:16:49,200 Now, if I were merely a human being, 368 00:16:49,200 --> 00:16:52,500 I would have returned that hostility and kind. 369 00:16:52,500 --> 00:16:55,500 I would have ignored you, left you 370 00:16:55,500 --> 00:16:58,800 to your own wicked desires, and in the end, judged you 371 00:16:58,800 --> 00:17:02,300 and snuffed out your life for all eternity. 372 00:17:02,300 --> 00:17:04,700 But I am not a man. 373 00:17:04,700 --> 00:17:06,900 Rather than respond with hostility, 374 00:17:06,900 --> 00:17:10,500 I have chosen to make you my friend. 375 00:17:10,500 --> 00:17:12,600 And not just a friend, as you know it on earth, 376 00:17:12,600 --> 00:17:17,500 I've adopted you as my own, a son, a daughter, an heir 377 00:17:17,500 --> 00:17:19,900 to all that I possess. 378 00:17:19,900 --> 00:17:23,300 And all of this is for my glory that in the ages to come, 379 00:17:23,300 --> 00:17:27,600 you and everyone else might come to see how merciful 380 00:17:27,600 --> 00:17:29,500 and mighty I am. 381 00:17:33,700 --> 00:17:34,300 Let's pause. 382 00:17:34,300 --> 00:17:37,900 Are you thankful today that Jesus is head of the church 383 00:17:37,900 --> 00:17:39,300 and that you are part of his body? 384 00:17:39,300 --> 00:17:42,800 You've been made part of his body. 385 00:17:42,800 --> 00:17:46,100 Are you thankful that you've been reconciled to God 386 00:17:46,100 --> 00:17:47,400 as you sit here this morning? 387 00:17:47,400 --> 00:17:53,600 Are you thankful to be adopted into God's family as a child 388 00:17:53,600 --> 00:17:54,500 and as an heir? 389 00:17:59,000 --> 00:18:00,700 Someday, my children, every one of you 390 00:18:00,700 --> 00:18:05,100 will leave this physical world and pass it into eternity. 391 00:18:05,100 --> 00:18:07,900 If you've been reconciled to me through the death of my son, 392 00:18:07,900 --> 00:18:10,400 when you come before my throne for judgment, 393 00:18:10,400 --> 00:18:14,100 I will see only Jesus in you. 394 00:18:14,100 --> 00:18:18,500 And I will proclaim you to be holy and blameless. 395 00:18:18,500 --> 00:18:19,800 How is that possible? 396 00:18:19,800 --> 00:18:21,800 I have declared it. 397 00:18:21,800 --> 00:18:23,000 And there is no other way. 398 00:18:23,000 --> 00:18:25,200 You cannot do this by yourselves. 399 00:18:25,200 --> 00:18:28,600 It is solely an act of my grace. 400 00:18:28,600 --> 00:18:30,500 For now, though, there's something 401 00:18:30,500 --> 00:18:32,600 you must do during your days on the earth. 402 00:18:32,600 --> 00:18:35,200 You must endure in your faith. 403 00:18:35,200 --> 00:18:38,200 I've set you free and given you the power to reason 404 00:18:38,200 --> 00:18:40,300 and to make very real choices. 405 00:18:40,300 --> 00:18:43,400 So choose wisely in the way that you walk. 406 00:18:43,400 --> 00:18:46,100 Be firmly established in the truth of my word. 407 00:18:46,100 --> 00:18:48,600 Become immovable in your faith. 408 00:18:48,600 --> 00:18:54,000 Never give up on the hope that you have. 409 00:18:54,000 --> 00:18:56,500 I want you to know something about my servant Paul, who 410 00:18:56,500 --> 00:18:59,300 I chose to write many important letters in my word. 411 00:18:59,300 --> 00:19:03,100 He suffered greatly for the sake of the gospel in his day. 412 00:19:03,100 --> 00:19:07,900 And to some degree, you too will have to endure suffering. 413 00:19:07,900 --> 00:19:09,500 But men like Paul, who've been called 414 00:19:09,500 --> 00:19:12,300 to reveal the mysteries of Christ through the teaching 415 00:19:12,300 --> 00:19:15,300 and preaching of the word, they will come under great attack. 416 00:19:15,300 --> 00:19:19,300 So pray for your leaders at Oak Hill. 417 00:19:19,300 --> 00:19:22,000 They strive with the strength that I provide them 418 00:19:22,000 --> 00:19:25,800 to proclaim, warn, and teach you with all wisdom. 419 00:19:25,800 --> 00:19:28,000 And they do it with one goal in mind 420 00:19:28,000 --> 00:19:33,300 that each of you would become mature in Christ. 421 00:19:33,300 --> 00:19:36,000 One last pause before we get to chapter 2. 422 00:19:36,000 --> 00:19:39,000 Are you thankful today that God sees you 423 00:19:39,000 --> 00:19:45,500 as holy and blameless because of Christ? 424 00:19:45,500 --> 00:19:48,800 Do you believe that's true, that God sees you 425 00:19:48,800 --> 00:19:49,600 as holy and blameless? 426 00:19:53,700 --> 00:19:56,400 Chapter 2. 427 00:19:56,400 --> 00:19:59,100 Beloved, here's another set of reasons 428 00:19:59,100 --> 00:20:01,800 why your elders struggle in prayer on your behalf. 429 00:20:01,800 --> 00:20:03,900 They want every member of the body at Oak Hill 430 00:20:03,900 --> 00:20:06,800 to be joined together in love and have 431 00:20:06,800 --> 00:20:09,700 all the riches of understanding and knowledge 432 00:20:09,700 --> 00:20:11,300 concerning my son. 433 00:20:11,300 --> 00:20:15,100 Whenever you're together, he must be your focus 434 00:20:15,100 --> 00:20:17,600 because all of the treasures of wisdom and knowledge 435 00:20:17,600 --> 00:20:21,500 are hidden in him and discovered in him. 436 00:20:21,500 --> 00:20:25,700 So then, just as you've received Jesus as Lord, abide with him. 437 00:20:25,700 --> 00:20:27,100 Walk with him. 438 00:20:27,100 --> 00:20:31,500 Be rooted and built up in the faith concerning him. 439 00:20:31,500 --> 00:20:34,500 That's what your leaders have been telling you. 440 00:20:34,500 --> 00:20:36,200 And be thankful. 441 00:20:36,200 --> 00:20:40,500 In fact, be overflowing with gratitude. 442 00:20:40,500 --> 00:20:43,400 I exhort you in these ways for a very important reason, 443 00:20:43,400 --> 00:20:44,200 friends. 444 00:20:44,200 --> 00:20:46,500 There are many opinions about Jesus out there, 445 00:20:46,500 --> 00:20:47,700 so be careful. 446 00:20:47,700 --> 00:20:50,600 I've told you exactly who my son is. 447 00:20:50,600 --> 00:20:53,700 So do not let anyone delude you with some worldly 448 00:20:53,700 --> 00:20:56,400 philosophical argument that contradicts what 449 00:20:56,400 --> 00:21:00,100 I've already said in my word. 450 00:21:00,100 --> 00:21:03,700 Your church is now almost 18 years old, 451 00:21:03,700 --> 00:21:08,400 and I have delighted to see your growth in discipline 452 00:21:08,400 --> 00:21:11,600 and in the solid, stub substance of your faith. 453 00:21:11,600 --> 00:21:17,700 What a joy to see Miles and Brandon, Veronica and Elijah 454 00:21:17,700 --> 00:21:22,300 and Kenzie on fire for the gospel. 455 00:21:22,300 --> 00:21:24,300 To them and to the rest of you, I say this. 456 00:21:24,300 --> 00:21:25,900 You're on the right track. 457 00:21:25,900 --> 00:21:28,700 Do not deviate from it. 458 00:21:28,700 --> 00:21:31,400 Watch out for people who try to take you captive 459 00:21:31,400 --> 00:21:34,200 with so-called new perspectives on what 460 00:21:34,200 --> 00:21:36,600 Holy Scripture teaches. 461 00:21:36,600 --> 00:21:39,900 They seek to drag you away by their foolishness and deceit, 462 00:21:39,900 --> 00:21:43,200 and their arguments have no basis in the truth. 463 00:21:43,200 --> 00:21:46,400 Rather, their sources are simply this. 464 00:21:46,400 --> 00:21:50,800 Wicked desires mixed with worldly logic 465 00:21:50,800 --> 00:21:54,800 backed by spiritual forces of darkness. 466 00:21:54,800 --> 00:21:58,300 Such people do not know me or my son. 467 00:21:58,300 --> 00:22:01,400 Behold, I've already warned you through my servant Solomon. 468 00:22:01,400 --> 00:22:04,200 There is a way which seems right to a man, 469 00:22:04,200 --> 00:22:07,000 but in the end, its way is death. 470 00:22:07,000 --> 00:22:09,000 So stay alert and make sure you don't 471 00:22:09,000 --> 00:22:11,200 fall into the clutches of these people 472 00:22:11,200 --> 00:22:13,900 or their false teaching. 473 00:22:13,900 --> 00:22:16,800 Remember, you don't need worldly ideas to make you complete, 474 00:22:16,800 --> 00:22:19,700 for I have made you complete in Jesus. 475 00:22:19,700 --> 00:22:22,100 He is the fullness of the Godhead, 476 00:22:22,100 --> 00:22:25,300 and he is the head over every ruler and every authority 477 00:22:25,300 --> 00:22:28,000 in heaven and on earth. 478 00:22:28,000 --> 00:22:29,800 Through him, the power of sin in your life 479 00:22:29,800 --> 00:22:31,300 has been stripped away. 480 00:22:31,300 --> 00:22:33,800 Do you not realize that if you know my son, 481 00:22:33,800 --> 00:22:37,400 you've already been buried with him in baptism? 482 00:22:37,400 --> 00:22:39,600 Do you not know that already you've been raised 483 00:22:39,600 --> 00:22:43,800 to life with him by faith? 484 00:22:43,800 --> 00:22:46,300 Never forget, my beloved, there was once 485 00:22:46,300 --> 00:22:48,700 a certificate of debt sitting in front of me 486 00:22:48,700 --> 00:22:52,000 with your name on it, a list of decrees 487 00:22:52,000 --> 00:22:55,500 which laid out all of your sins. 488 00:22:55,500 --> 00:23:03,600 I remember the names, Sam, Scott, Esme, Olivia, Andrew, 489 00:23:03,600 --> 00:23:11,300 Kristen, Wesley, Sarai, Polly, Serena, and not just those, 490 00:23:11,300 --> 00:23:13,500 but every other person at Oak Hill. 491 00:23:13,500 --> 00:23:17,100 Trust me, it did not look good for any of you, 492 00:23:17,100 --> 00:23:24,300 not for Brianna, Emmy, Logan, Riley, Katie, Ryan, or Molly. 493 00:23:24,300 --> 00:23:30,700 You were all dead in your sins, but that's when I moved. 494 00:23:30,700 --> 00:23:36,200 I made you alive together with Jesus. 495 00:23:36,200 --> 00:23:41,700 You literally went from eternal condemnation to eternal life. 496 00:23:41,700 --> 00:23:44,700 That nasty certificate of debt was canceled, 497 00:23:44,700 --> 00:23:48,200 taken out of the way, and nailed to the cross. 498 00:23:48,200 --> 00:23:50,900 And on that cross, the dark spiritual forces 499 00:23:50,900 --> 00:23:52,900 were stripped of their false authority. 500 00:23:52,900 --> 00:23:55,300 They were marched naked through the streets, 501 00:23:55,300 --> 00:23:59,500 humiliated for all the world to see. 502 00:23:59,500 --> 00:24:03,100 And now, for each of you, the curse of the law is wiped out. 503 00:24:03,100 --> 00:24:06,100 Death has been overcome, and fear no longer 504 00:24:06,100 --> 00:24:07,900 has a hold over you. 505 00:24:10,900 --> 00:24:13,300 Let's pause again. 506 00:24:13,300 --> 00:24:14,800 Are you thankful this morning that you've 507 00:24:14,800 --> 00:24:22,900 been buried with Christ in death and raised with Him to new life? 508 00:24:22,900 --> 00:24:24,900 Are you thankful that that certificate of death 509 00:24:24,900 --> 00:24:29,900 that you once owed to God has been erased and wiped clean? 510 00:24:32,700 --> 00:24:34,300 Do we not have a lot to be thankful for? 511 00:24:36,700 --> 00:24:38,300 Let me continue. 512 00:24:38,300 --> 00:24:40,000 So in light of all these things, friends, 513 00:24:40,000 --> 00:24:41,800 don't let anyone out there pressure you 514 00:24:41,800 --> 00:24:45,900 over non-essential matters, things like what you should 515 00:24:45,900 --> 00:24:50,300 eat or not eat, what you should drink or not drink. 516 00:24:50,300 --> 00:24:52,300 Don't let legalistic teachers tell you 517 00:24:52,300 --> 00:24:55,900 what holidays you should observe or not observe. 518 00:24:55,900 --> 00:24:59,500 All such human regulations are mere shadows. 519 00:24:59,500 --> 00:25:01,300 Stay focused on Jesus. 520 00:25:01,300 --> 00:25:03,500 He is the substance. 521 00:25:03,500 --> 00:25:06,100 Also, ignore all of the distracting noise 522 00:25:06,100 --> 00:25:09,300 about things like ascetic practices and rituals 523 00:25:09,300 --> 00:25:12,400 that are devoid of meaning and chasing after visions 524 00:25:12,400 --> 00:25:17,100 and false worship that's rooted purely in emotionalism. 525 00:25:17,100 --> 00:25:19,700 Have you not noticed that people who claim to participate 526 00:25:19,700 --> 00:25:23,500 in these things become inflated in their own minds? 527 00:25:23,500 --> 00:25:25,000 That's because they've lost connection 528 00:25:25,000 --> 00:25:28,300 to the source of life, the head from whom the true body 529 00:25:28,300 --> 00:25:31,700 of Christ is held together. 530 00:25:31,700 --> 00:25:33,200 So now think. 531 00:25:33,200 --> 00:25:35,900 If you've died with Jesus to the human logic 532 00:25:35,900 --> 00:25:38,200 and man-made traditions of this world, 533 00:25:38,200 --> 00:25:41,800 why would you submit yourself to a set of rules and practices 534 00:25:41,800 --> 00:25:45,000 which I have not commanded you? 535 00:25:45,000 --> 00:25:50,300 For goodness sake, Jesus came to set you free, so be free. 536 00:25:50,300 --> 00:25:52,340 This world is no longer your home, 537 00:25:52,340 --> 00:25:55,560 and all these conflicting ideas about eating and drinking 538 00:25:55,560 --> 00:25:58,500 and observing will one day perish. 539 00:25:58,500 --> 00:26:01,460 The fools who engage in such legalistic behavior 540 00:26:01,460 --> 00:26:04,240 may at times look pious and humble, 541 00:26:04,240 --> 00:26:06,400 but I know the truth about their hearts. 542 00:26:06,400 --> 00:26:10,500 They're just showing off, trying to make themselves look more 543 00:26:10,500 --> 00:26:11,600 godly than they are. 544 00:26:11,600 --> 00:26:14,360 And in reality, none of their practices 545 00:26:14,360 --> 00:26:17,400 have any value in curbing sinful desires. 546 00:26:20,000 --> 00:26:22,800 Before we get to chapter 3, one more pause. 547 00:26:22,800 --> 00:26:27,800 Are you thankful today that you are free in Christ? 548 00:26:27,800 --> 00:26:30,900 Are you thankful that your faith is in the living God 549 00:26:30,900 --> 00:26:36,240 and not in man-made rules and regulations? 550 00:26:36,240 --> 00:26:36,800 Be thankful. 551 00:26:39,500 --> 00:26:40,160 Chapter 3. 552 00:26:43,240 --> 00:26:46,040 So my saints, if as you sit here this morning 553 00:26:46,040 --> 00:26:48,200 you've been brought to life and reconciled to me 554 00:26:48,200 --> 00:26:51,360 through my Son, if you've been brought out of darkness 555 00:26:51,360 --> 00:26:54,320 and into the kingdom of light, then stop looking around 556 00:26:54,320 --> 00:26:57,280 at your circumstances. 557 00:26:57,280 --> 00:27:00,940 Stop being consumed with worry, and stop 558 00:27:00,940 --> 00:27:03,440 seeking the ungodly pleasures of this world. 559 00:27:03,440 --> 00:27:06,520 Instead, shift your mind and your heart 560 00:27:06,520 --> 00:27:12,080 to things above where Christ is seated at my right hand. 561 00:27:12,080 --> 00:27:14,880 I'm going to give you some insight into a mystery that Paul 562 00:27:14,880 --> 00:27:17,440 talked about in his letter to the saints in Colossae 563 00:27:17,440 --> 00:27:19,640 long ago. 564 00:27:19,640 --> 00:27:21,040 You have already died. 565 00:27:24,040 --> 00:27:33,400 David, Brooke, Seth, Lena, Isabel, Preston, Julie, Bruno, 566 00:27:33,400 --> 00:27:34,200 you've all died. 567 00:27:36,840 --> 00:27:39,640 I know that your physical heart is still beating, 568 00:27:39,640 --> 00:27:41,640 but hear this lofty spiritual truth. 569 00:27:41,640 --> 00:27:46,000 Long ago, you were crucified with Jesus. 570 00:27:46,000 --> 00:27:47,880 You were raised from the dead with Him, 571 00:27:47,880 --> 00:27:52,600 and you were seated in the heavenly realms with us. 572 00:27:52,600 --> 00:27:55,880 And yet for now, for a short time, for a vapor, 573 00:27:55,880 --> 00:27:57,160 your life does go on. 574 00:27:57,160 --> 00:28:03,240 But trust me, your life is hidden in my Son. 575 00:28:03,240 --> 00:28:04,520 And here's the best news of all. 576 00:28:04,520 --> 00:28:07,920 A great day is coming when I will send Him back to the earth 577 00:28:07,920 --> 00:28:11,600 to judge and to rule and to reign. 578 00:28:11,600 --> 00:28:13,360 He will be revealed in great glory, 579 00:28:13,360 --> 00:28:18,640 and you too will be revealed right alongside Him in glory. 580 00:28:18,640 --> 00:28:25,680 Alex, Chris, Barbara, Bill, Ron, and Kim, 581 00:28:25,680 --> 00:28:28,480 can you imagine what it will be like to reign 582 00:28:28,480 --> 00:28:34,600 in a perfected, glorified body with no sin, no illness, 583 00:28:34,600 --> 00:28:37,000 no pain, and no more heartache? 584 00:28:39,800 --> 00:28:40,720 Can you imagine it? 585 00:28:44,240 --> 00:28:47,840 Before I get weepy, let me pause again. 586 00:28:47,840 --> 00:28:51,240 Are you thankful that spiritually you 587 00:28:51,240 --> 00:28:54,360 are already seated with Christ in the heavenly realms? 588 00:28:54,360 --> 00:28:57,920 That's how secure your salvation is. 589 00:28:57,920 --> 00:28:59,440 Are you thankful for that this morning? 590 00:28:59,440 --> 00:29:04,480 Are you thankful for the promise that He's coming back? 591 00:29:04,480 --> 00:29:05,040 I hope so. 592 00:29:07,920 --> 00:29:09,840 Now as you wait for the return of my Son, 593 00:29:09,840 --> 00:29:11,600 I have some instructions for you. 594 00:29:11,600 --> 00:29:14,120 Don't check out on me just because your salvation is 595 00:29:14,120 --> 00:29:14,920 secure. 596 00:29:14,920 --> 00:29:17,840 There's work to be done. 597 00:29:17,840 --> 00:29:19,520 Start by putting to death whatever 598 00:29:19,520 --> 00:29:21,680 belongs to your earthly nature. 599 00:29:21,680 --> 00:29:26,200 Sexual sin, impurity, lust, and the evil desires 600 00:29:26,200 --> 00:29:27,720 that leak from your heart. 601 00:29:27,720 --> 00:29:29,960 These are all forms of idolatry, and I 602 00:29:29,960 --> 00:29:33,560 am a jealous God who will deal with any idol that threatens 603 00:29:33,560 --> 00:29:36,040 to steal away your heart. 604 00:29:36,040 --> 00:29:40,400 You once walked in those things, but no more. 605 00:29:40,400 --> 00:29:42,240 Alongside the sins of the flesh, you 606 00:29:42,240 --> 00:29:44,920 must put aside the kinds of unmet desires 607 00:29:44,920 --> 00:29:47,440 that destroy relationships. 608 00:29:47,440 --> 00:29:52,760 Anger, malice, slander, profanity, abusive language, 609 00:29:52,760 --> 00:29:55,640 and lying to one another. 610 00:29:55,640 --> 00:30:00,320 These are not fit for children of the King. 611 00:30:00,320 --> 00:30:03,040 Why would a child of the King wear such a filthy set 612 00:30:03,040 --> 00:30:03,960 of clothes? 613 00:30:03,960 --> 00:30:05,840 Put to death the old self. 614 00:30:05,840 --> 00:30:08,520 That's not who you are anymore. 615 00:30:08,520 --> 00:30:10,560 And in its place, put on the new self. 616 00:30:10,560 --> 00:30:13,120 Put on your true identity in Christ 617 00:30:13,120 --> 00:30:16,400 as if you're slipping on a new set of garments. 618 00:30:16,400 --> 00:30:21,040 Every new piece of clothing is custom-made by my Son 619 00:30:21,040 --> 00:30:24,320 with His label on it. 620 00:30:24,320 --> 00:30:26,520 From now on, there are no category distinctions 621 00:30:26,520 --> 00:30:28,360 between any of you. 622 00:30:28,360 --> 00:30:36,160 Jew, Gentile, Barbarian, slave, Freeman, white, black, brown, 623 00:30:36,160 --> 00:30:38,060 red, or yellow. 624 00:30:38,060 --> 00:30:40,640 These things don't matter in the long run. 625 00:30:40,640 --> 00:30:42,160 All that matters is this. 626 00:30:42,160 --> 00:30:46,120 Which set of clothes do you have on? 627 00:30:46,120 --> 00:30:49,660 Will you be found in Christ or not? 628 00:30:49,660 --> 00:30:55,400 That's all that matters. 629 00:30:55,400 --> 00:30:58,280 And here's the things I want you to put on. 630 00:30:58,280 --> 00:31:01,040 The very same garments that Christ modeled for you, 631 00:31:01,040 --> 00:31:06,360 compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 632 00:31:06,360 --> 00:31:07,440 Follow your master. 633 00:31:07,440 --> 00:31:12,480 It is a privilege to wear the garments that he did. 634 00:31:12,480 --> 00:31:13,360 Now hear me, children. 635 00:31:13,360 --> 00:31:15,840 I've not called you to be new individuals only. 636 00:31:15,840 --> 00:31:18,960 Together, I've called you to be a new people. 637 00:31:18,960 --> 00:31:22,680 And it begins in your local church right there at Oak Hill. 638 00:31:22,680 --> 00:31:26,440 I want you to bear with one another's weaknesses and faults. 639 00:31:26,440 --> 00:31:28,160 I know it's not always easy to do that, 640 00:31:28,160 --> 00:31:31,680 but this is what makes you different from the world. 641 00:31:31,680 --> 00:31:34,320 Think the best of your brothers and sisters. 642 00:31:34,320 --> 00:31:36,140 Recognize spiritual growth in them, 643 00:31:36,140 --> 00:31:39,120 even if they still have a long way to go, 644 00:31:39,120 --> 00:31:41,440 because that's true of you as well. 645 00:31:41,440 --> 00:31:43,760 So bear with them and forgive. 646 00:31:43,760 --> 00:31:46,320 By all means, forgive. 647 00:31:46,320 --> 00:31:48,840 When they disappoint you, forgive them. 648 00:31:48,840 --> 00:31:51,480 When they say something unkind, forgive them. 649 00:31:51,480 --> 00:31:55,760 When they do something that seems insensitive, forgive. 650 00:31:55,760 --> 00:31:59,200 Do you understand how much I've forgiven you? 651 00:31:59,200 --> 00:32:02,640 If you did, you would never withhold forgiveness 652 00:32:02,640 --> 00:32:06,400 from a brother or sister. 653 00:32:06,400 --> 00:32:09,080 In your daily lives, let the peace of God the Son 654 00:32:09,080 --> 00:32:10,360 rule your hearts. 655 00:32:10,360 --> 00:32:14,560 Peace with others, yes, but also peace within. 656 00:32:14,560 --> 00:32:16,440 To have that, you're going to have to trust me. 657 00:32:16,440 --> 00:32:18,120 And why wouldn't you? 658 00:32:18,120 --> 00:32:21,360 I am sovereign over every circumstance, every sickness, 659 00:32:21,360 --> 00:32:24,200 every paycheck, every child, every bird, 660 00:32:24,200 --> 00:32:25,880 and every blade of grass. 661 00:32:25,880 --> 00:32:30,800 If you want peace, my peace I give to you. 662 00:32:30,800 --> 00:32:33,360 I also desire that you let my word dwell richly 663 00:32:33,360 --> 00:32:36,080 within you in your devotional life, 664 00:32:36,080 --> 00:32:39,040 in your Sunday gatherings, in your community groups, 665 00:32:39,040 --> 00:32:41,600 in your casual lunch or coffee dates. 666 00:32:41,600 --> 00:32:44,480 In your entire life as a body together, 667 00:32:44,480 --> 00:32:48,360 let my word sink in deeply. 668 00:32:48,360 --> 00:32:52,920 Read it, study it, pray it, feed on it, teach one another, 669 00:32:52,920 --> 00:32:57,240 and correct one another from my word. 670 00:32:57,240 --> 00:32:59,080 Sing it as well. 671 00:32:59,080 --> 00:33:00,440 Sing the words of scripture. 672 00:33:00,440 --> 00:33:04,440 Sing psalms and hymns and all kinds of spiritual songs. 673 00:33:04,440 --> 00:33:08,760 And if you can't carry a tune, sing anyway. 674 00:33:08,760 --> 00:33:09,400 Don't worry. 675 00:33:09,400 --> 00:33:13,640 You don't have to sing as well as Ariana or Carly or Akaila 676 00:33:13,640 --> 00:33:17,240 or Laura or Becca to get my attention. 677 00:33:17,240 --> 00:33:20,720 I will receive your praise. 678 00:33:20,720 --> 00:33:23,400 My beloved, whatever you do, in word or deed, 679 00:33:23,400 --> 00:33:25,360 do it all in the name of my son. 680 00:33:25,360 --> 00:33:30,120 When you clean the bathroom, when you do the dishes, 681 00:33:30,120 --> 00:33:33,520 when you take out the trash cans, when you drive to work, 682 00:33:33,520 --> 00:33:36,760 when you're eating dinner with your kids, everything you do, 683 00:33:36,760 --> 00:33:41,800 do it all to my glory as you give thanks. 684 00:33:41,800 --> 00:33:46,000 Did you know that Daniel coaches basketball for my glory? 685 00:33:46,000 --> 00:33:49,040 That Emma writes music for my glory? 686 00:33:49,040 --> 00:33:53,440 That Jason sells hardware products for my glory? 687 00:33:53,440 --> 00:33:56,280 Did you know that Tom, Alex, Glenn, and Josh 688 00:33:56,280 --> 00:34:00,040 work for me in Hollywood of all places? 689 00:34:00,040 --> 00:34:01,040 It's all for my glory. 690 00:34:04,560 --> 00:34:05,440 So pause. 691 00:34:05,440 --> 00:34:08,120 Are you thankful for the privilege 692 00:34:08,120 --> 00:34:12,240 of living out the one and others in this local church? 693 00:34:12,240 --> 00:34:14,800 That is a privilege. 694 00:34:14,800 --> 00:34:18,560 Are you thankful for the privilege of forgiving others 695 00:34:18,560 --> 00:34:20,280 just as Christ has forgiven you? 696 00:34:22,640 --> 00:34:24,840 Are you thankful that Oak Hill puts the Word of God 697 00:34:24,840 --> 00:34:28,320 at the center of everything we do? 698 00:34:28,320 --> 00:34:29,440 That's an important truth. 699 00:34:32,160 --> 00:34:35,000 My children, let me get really practical now. 700 00:34:35,000 --> 00:34:38,200 I care deeply about your households. 701 00:34:38,200 --> 00:34:40,240 I'm a God of design and order, and I 702 00:34:40,240 --> 00:34:45,800 have declared my design and my order for your family. 703 00:34:45,800 --> 00:34:48,160 It was divinely instituted from the very beginning 704 00:34:48,160 --> 00:34:49,600 of time in the garden. 705 00:34:49,600 --> 00:34:52,320 So to question it or to try to go your own way 706 00:34:52,320 --> 00:34:55,560 is the absolute height of foolishness. 707 00:34:55,560 --> 00:34:58,000 Your home should operate in a way that honors me 708 00:34:58,000 --> 00:35:00,640 and makes you different from the world. 709 00:35:00,640 --> 00:35:01,880 So are you ready? 710 00:35:01,880 --> 00:35:04,680 This won't be easy. 711 00:35:04,680 --> 00:35:08,520 Wives, I want you to follow your husbands. 712 00:35:08,520 --> 00:35:12,400 I want you to back off and let him lead your family. 713 00:35:12,400 --> 00:35:13,560 I know this may be hard. 714 00:35:13,560 --> 00:35:16,280 You may think you're a better leader. 715 00:35:16,280 --> 00:35:18,840 You may think that he's not a strong leader right now, 716 00:35:18,840 --> 00:35:21,800 but I want you to trust me in this. 717 00:35:21,800 --> 00:35:26,560 Danny and Sarah and Kaylee and Zariah, 718 00:35:26,560 --> 00:35:30,440 Kaitlyn and Mariah, Kelsey and Sage, Brittany and Tierney, 719 00:35:30,440 --> 00:35:33,960 I've called your husbands to lead. 720 00:35:33,960 --> 00:35:37,240 And if you try to step in and usurp his leadership, 721 00:35:37,240 --> 00:35:39,240 it's not only a sin against me, but it 722 00:35:39,240 --> 00:35:43,840 will bring you unhappiness and create chaos in your homes. 723 00:35:43,840 --> 00:35:46,200 So beware. 724 00:35:46,200 --> 00:35:47,800 You will certainly struggle with this. 725 00:35:47,800 --> 00:35:51,560 And when you do, I want you to look past your husband's faults 726 00:35:51,560 --> 00:35:53,520 and look at my son. 727 00:35:53,520 --> 00:35:55,240 Trust me with this command. 728 00:35:55,240 --> 00:35:57,560 And if you need help on how to do it well, 729 00:35:57,560 --> 00:36:01,240 you have Tanya and Carol and Jesse and Meredith 730 00:36:01,240 --> 00:36:02,400 that you can talk to. 731 00:36:02,400 --> 00:36:05,440 They will give you lots of wise counsel 732 00:36:05,440 --> 00:36:09,400 from the years of experience in marriage. 733 00:36:09,400 --> 00:36:12,840 Husbands, your job is even more difficult than what 734 00:36:12,840 --> 00:36:15,480 I just gave to your wives. 735 00:36:15,480 --> 00:36:16,240 Are you ready? 736 00:36:16,240 --> 00:36:23,200 Zach and Luke and Matt and Colton and Caleb and Mario 737 00:36:23,200 --> 00:36:27,400 and Josiah and Travis, I want you to love your wives 738 00:36:27,400 --> 00:36:31,360 using Jesus as your model. 739 00:36:31,360 --> 00:36:33,600 That means you're to be a servant leader, one 740 00:36:33,600 --> 00:36:37,400 who puts the needs of your wife before your own. 741 00:36:37,400 --> 00:36:39,560 Be humble in your leadership. 742 00:36:39,560 --> 00:36:44,000 Be gentle and kind, never taking advantage of your role 743 00:36:44,000 --> 00:36:45,800 as the authority in the home. 744 00:36:45,800 --> 00:36:50,800 If you fail in this area, I will hold you responsible. 745 00:36:50,800 --> 00:36:53,120 So beware. 746 00:36:53,120 --> 00:36:54,720 For children still living in the home, 747 00:36:54,720 --> 00:36:57,440 do what your parents tell you. 748 00:36:57,440 --> 00:36:59,640 Amen. 749 00:36:59,640 --> 00:37:00,800 It's as simple as that. 750 00:37:00,800 --> 00:37:03,080 I know you don't always feel like it. 751 00:37:03,080 --> 00:37:05,160 I know you think you've got everything figured out 752 00:37:05,160 --> 00:37:07,760 and your parents don't have a clue. 753 00:37:07,760 --> 00:37:08,400 But guess what? 754 00:37:08,400 --> 00:37:10,640 They do know a few things. 755 00:37:10,640 --> 00:37:12,720 They do know a few things about being a child, 756 00:37:12,720 --> 00:37:14,880 about being a teenager, and I have 757 00:37:14,880 --> 00:37:18,600 called them to guide you during these difficult years. 758 00:37:18,600 --> 00:37:22,400 But you have to speak less and listen more. 759 00:37:22,400 --> 00:37:25,920 If you'll obey them, you will please me. 760 00:37:25,920 --> 00:37:31,360 Parents, you've been given a huge stewardship responsibility. 761 00:37:31,360 --> 00:37:37,320 Blaine and Kelsey, Mike and Cassie, Dylan and Juliana, 762 00:37:37,320 --> 00:37:42,320 Josh and Yael, Robert and Kimberly, TJ and Rana, Mason 763 00:37:42,320 --> 00:37:46,560 and Sabrina, you are to shepherd those little hearts and lives 764 00:37:46,560 --> 00:37:48,640 in your household. 765 00:37:48,640 --> 00:37:51,440 So raise, teach, and guide them carefully. 766 00:37:51,440 --> 00:37:54,440 Never forget that you have the privilege of representing me 767 00:37:54,440 --> 00:37:56,520 before your kids. 768 00:37:56,520 --> 00:37:58,640 You get to be an example of godliness 769 00:37:58,640 --> 00:38:01,200 that they can imitate. 770 00:38:01,200 --> 00:38:03,240 Don't neglect to discipline your kids in order 771 00:38:03,240 --> 00:38:04,480 to keep them on track. 772 00:38:04,480 --> 00:38:07,400 But as you do, do not squash their spirit 773 00:38:07,400 --> 00:38:09,240 and cause them to lose heart. 774 00:38:09,240 --> 00:38:10,880 That would be a great tragedy, for I 775 00:38:10,880 --> 00:38:14,280 desire that they flourish under your loving hand. 776 00:38:16,960 --> 00:38:23,360 Those of you who are employees, Tori, Andy, Ben, Tammy, 777 00:38:23,360 --> 00:38:25,400 I want you to work hard. 778 00:38:25,400 --> 00:38:27,840 And I want you to put in the hours required of you, 779 00:38:27,840 --> 00:38:31,720 whether you work from a physical office or from your home. 780 00:38:31,720 --> 00:38:34,440 Obey those I put an authority over you. 781 00:38:34,440 --> 00:38:37,640 I know that some of your bosses are difficult to follow. 782 00:38:37,640 --> 00:38:40,960 But remember, as you work throughout the day, 783 00:38:40,960 --> 00:38:44,720 you're really serving me, not your boss. 784 00:38:44,720 --> 00:38:48,040 So don't just do the minimum to get by and collect a paycheck. 785 00:38:48,040 --> 00:38:51,520 Work with real integrity from the heart. 786 00:38:51,520 --> 00:38:53,920 And even if you don't get paid what you're worth, 787 00:38:53,920 --> 00:38:55,960 never forget that I will someday give you 788 00:38:55,960 --> 00:38:57,920 the ultimate inheritance. 789 00:38:57,920 --> 00:38:59,000 So be patient. 790 00:38:59,000 --> 00:39:01,600 It's worth it. 791 00:39:01,600 --> 00:39:04,760 If you're a boss over others where you work, 792 00:39:04,760 --> 00:39:08,320 like Jayden or Stephen, Tom or Simon, 793 00:39:08,320 --> 00:39:10,520 the authority you wield in the lives of others 794 00:39:10,520 --> 00:39:13,640 carries great responsibility in my eyes. 795 00:39:13,640 --> 00:39:15,240 You must be fair. 796 00:39:15,240 --> 00:39:16,480 You must be generous. 797 00:39:16,480 --> 00:39:18,000 And you must be righteous in the way 798 00:39:18,000 --> 00:39:21,960 you deal with those I have put under your care. 799 00:39:21,960 --> 00:39:23,440 As you go throughout your work day, 800 00:39:23,440 --> 00:39:27,320 never forget that you have a boss too, a boss in heaven. 801 00:39:27,320 --> 00:39:31,040 And I will someday judge both employee and employer 802 00:39:31,040 --> 00:39:33,440 without regard to earthly positions. 803 00:39:33,440 --> 00:39:36,360 On the day of judgment, there is no favoritism. 804 00:39:36,360 --> 00:39:38,520 All are equal in my courtroom. 805 00:39:38,520 --> 00:39:39,720 Never forget this. 806 00:39:42,880 --> 00:39:46,000 Before we wrap up with chapter four, a few more questions. 807 00:39:46,000 --> 00:39:48,520 Are you thankful for God's design and ordering 808 00:39:48,520 --> 00:39:51,080 of your household? 809 00:39:51,080 --> 00:39:52,320 Are you thankful for that plan? 810 00:39:55,000 --> 00:39:58,600 Are you thankful for the role that God has called you 811 00:39:58,600 --> 00:39:59,800 to play within the family? 812 00:40:03,120 --> 00:40:05,280 Chapter four. 813 00:40:05,280 --> 00:40:08,080 Finally, my children, never forget 814 00:40:08,080 --> 00:40:11,000 that you were a foot soldier in a great spiritual battle that 815 00:40:11,000 --> 00:40:13,600 is playing out in real time. 816 00:40:13,600 --> 00:40:15,800 Content for the faith that's been passed down to you, 817 00:40:15,800 --> 00:40:18,800 the same faith I delivered to you through my prophets 818 00:40:18,800 --> 00:40:20,880 and apostles. 819 00:40:20,880 --> 00:40:23,440 I want you to pick up the weapons that I've provided to you 820 00:40:23,440 --> 00:40:25,920 and take ground for the kingdom. 821 00:40:25,920 --> 00:40:28,680 And to that end, I've given you two unique weapons 822 00:40:28,680 --> 00:40:31,520 that come with my sovereign power behind them, 823 00:40:31,520 --> 00:40:34,600 your prayers and your witness. 824 00:40:34,600 --> 00:40:37,440 Devote yourself to prayer. 825 00:40:37,440 --> 00:40:39,760 Abide with me all day long, even as you're 826 00:40:39,760 --> 00:40:42,080 doing your earthly tasks. 827 00:40:42,080 --> 00:40:43,920 Take every thought captive. 828 00:40:43,920 --> 00:40:48,560 Bring every trial and temptation that you face before me. 829 00:40:48,560 --> 00:40:50,200 I'll be there. 830 00:40:50,200 --> 00:40:54,480 I'll listen, and I'll help you guard your heart. 831 00:40:54,480 --> 00:40:55,840 Make sure that you stay alert. 832 00:40:55,840 --> 00:41:00,920 Remember, the enemy seeks to distract you and discourage you. 833 00:41:00,920 --> 00:41:03,440 And if you stumble into your day without a thought or prayer, 834 00:41:03,440 --> 00:41:05,400 he will devour you. 835 00:41:05,400 --> 00:41:08,640 So don't fall asleep at your post. 836 00:41:08,640 --> 00:41:11,320 Speaking of prayer, make sure to lift up the missionaries, 837 00:41:11,320 --> 00:41:12,920 evangelists, and pastors that are 838 00:41:12,920 --> 00:41:14,600 on the front lines of the battle. 839 00:41:14,600 --> 00:41:16,920 Make sure that all of the elders and their wives 840 00:41:16,920 --> 00:41:20,040 are on your regular prayer list, plus Chris, 841 00:41:20,040 --> 00:41:22,960 who leads your evangelism table, Malia and others 842 00:41:22,960 --> 00:41:25,840 at Children's Hunger Fund, and Josh and Allie, 843 00:41:25,840 --> 00:41:28,400 who desire to go abroad in the coming years. 844 00:41:28,400 --> 00:41:31,360 I have ordained your prayers as a means 845 00:41:31,360 --> 00:41:34,200 to accomplish my will through them. 846 00:41:34,200 --> 00:41:37,880 So pray for open doors for my word to go forth. 847 00:41:37,880 --> 00:41:40,400 And pray that my ambassadors will clearly 848 00:41:40,400 --> 00:41:42,400 proclaim the gospel. 849 00:41:42,400 --> 00:41:46,800 That's one of my favorite prayers to answer. 850 00:41:46,800 --> 00:41:48,960 Children, each one of you has a specific mission 851 00:41:48,960 --> 00:41:50,800 when it comes to evangelism. 852 00:41:50,800 --> 00:41:53,040 I work through my servants to bring my elect 853 00:41:53,040 --> 00:41:56,400 into the kingdom, so stay on mission. 854 00:41:56,400 --> 00:41:58,240 Whenever you're among unbelievers, 855 00:41:58,240 --> 00:42:01,560 be careful how you act. 856 00:42:01,560 --> 00:42:05,800 Check your attitude and make sure it reflects my love. 857 00:42:05,800 --> 00:42:08,200 Be self-aware as you mingle with people who 858 00:42:08,200 --> 00:42:10,880 might be open to the gospel. 859 00:42:10,880 --> 00:42:15,480 Victoria, Stone, Isaac, are you praying and watching? 860 00:42:15,480 --> 00:42:20,960 Sophia, Kristen, Lizzie, are you prepared to share your faith? 861 00:42:20,960 --> 00:42:23,280 Divine opportunities will come your way, 862 00:42:23,280 --> 00:42:26,720 so make the most of every opportunity that I give to you. 863 00:42:26,720 --> 00:42:30,800 And remember, beloved, watch your speech carefully. 864 00:42:30,800 --> 00:42:33,000 Your conversations with unbelievers 865 00:42:33,000 --> 00:42:36,440 should always be filled with a balance of grace and truth. 866 00:42:36,440 --> 00:42:38,240 And when you speak about your faith, 867 00:42:38,240 --> 00:42:40,800 let all the flavor of your relationship with me 868 00:42:40,800 --> 00:42:41,640 come out. 869 00:42:41,640 --> 00:42:43,400 Make it tasty. 870 00:42:43,400 --> 00:42:44,520 Make it attractive. 871 00:42:47,040 --> 00:42:48,560 One last pause, and then we'll finish. 872 00:42:48,560 --> 00:42:52,320 Are you thankful this morning for the gift and privilege 873 00:42:52,320 --> 00:42:55,160 of prayer, to be able to speak to the creator 874 00:42:55,160 --> 00:42:55,720 of the universe? 875 00:42:58,560 --> 00:43:00,000 Are you thankful that God has called 876 00:43:00,000 --> 00:43:04,160 you to be an ambassador for his saving gospel? 877 00:43:07,240 --> 00:43:10,720 Church at Oak Hill, the saints up here in heaven 878 00:43:10,720 --> 00:43:13,800 send their greetings. 879 00:43:13,800 --> 00:43:18,160 I testify that they have a great concern for you 880 00:43:18,160 --> 00:43:21,560 and for all the other believers in Santa Clarita. 881 00:43:21,560 --> 00:43:26,400 They send greetings to Megan and Ella, to Eugene and Michaela, 882 00:43:26,400 --> 00:43:28,840 those who labor in leading your worship. 883 00:43:28,840 --> 00:43:32,720 They send their greetings to the other deacons, Alex and Blake, 884 00:43:32,720 --> 00:43:34,840 Connor, Glenn and Laura, men and women 885 00:43:34,840 --> 00:43:38,120 who are devoted to the church and who constantly pray 886 00:43:38,120 --> 00:43:40,960 on behalf of the congregation at Oak Hill. 887 00:43:43,840 --> 00:43:46,320 I love you all. 888 00:43:46,320 --> 00:43:50,680 And I'm with you always, even to the end of the age. 889 00:43:50,680 --> 00:43:51,600 Your father in heaven. 890 00:43:55,040 --> 00:43:55,800 We bow your heads. 891 00:44:02,880 --> 00:44:04,600 Father, thank you for your word. 892 00:44:04,600 --> 00:44:09,760 Lord, even as we adapt the message 893 00:44:09,760 --> 00:44:14,440 that you have given to the church from the first century 894 00:44:14,440 --> 00:44:18,400 to today, Lord, the way you have communicated your truth to us 895 00:44:18,400 --> 00:44:19,720 is so beautiful. 896 00:44:19,720 --> 00:44:23,640 To sit back and just enjoy how much you have loved us 897 00:44:23,640 --> 00:44:28,840 by communicating so clearly to us who you are, who we are, 898 00:44:28,840 --> 00:44:31,800 what you have done for us. 899 00:44:31,800 --> 00:44:35,320 Lord, we are thankful people this morning, 900 00:44:35,320 --> 00:44:37,600 thankful for so many things that were included 901 00:44:37,600 --> 00:44:40,480 in the letter that Paul wrote to the Colossians. 902 00:44:40,480 --> 00:44:42,440 Things that, Lord, we may have taken for granted, 903 00:44:42,440 --> 00:44:46,360 may not have thought about in so long. 904 00:44:46,360 --> 00:44:48,240 Father, I pray by your spirit that you 905 00:44:48,240 --> 00:44:50,640 would bring those things to our hearts and minds 906 00:44:50,640 --> 00:44:52,880 this Thanksgiving season and give us 907 00:44:52,880 --> 00:44:55,960 the privilege of talking to you about it 908 00:44:55,960 --> 00:44:59,200 and praising you for all of it. 909 00:44:59,200 --> 00:45:02,840 So God, I pray that as this letter seeps 910 00:45:02,840 --> 00:45:05,400 into the hearts of our body that, Lord, it 911 00:45:05,400 --> 00:45:06,280 wouldn't be my voice. 912 00:45:06,280 --> 00:45:09,200 It wouldn't be Jeff's voice that they hear, 913 00:45:09,200 --> 00:45:12,120 but your voice, your spirit speaking to them. 914 00:45:12,120 --> 00:45:14,800 So thank you for this time this morning. 915 00:45:14,800 --> 00:45:18,520 We love you, and we praise you in Jesus' name. 916 00:45:18,520 --> 00:45:30,080 Amen.