The Power of the Cross Part 4 1 Corinthians 1:17-25 The cross is powerful because it contains a: •1. Saving Message In response to this message: Some dismiss it as absurd. Some embrace it as the answer. •2. Simple Message In light of its simplicity: Human wisdom denies it. God's wisdom is displayed in it. •3. Separating Message The gospel separates people into 2 categories: Those who reject it. Those who respond to it.

The Power of the Cross Part 4 1 Corinthians 1:17-25 The cross is powerful because it contains a: •1. Saving Message In response to this message: Some dismiss it as absurd. Some embrace it as the answer. •2. Simple Message In light of its simplicity: Human wisdom denies it. God's wisdom is displayed in it. •3. Separating Message The gospel separates people into 2 categories: Those who reject it. Those who respond to it.

The Way of the Cross Part 3 Luke 9:23 & Luke 19:28-40 Are you are a part of: 1. The Sunday Crowd This group: a. Included people who were spiritual b. Were in a position to be spectators c. Had a passion that was short-lived 2. The spiritually committed. This group: a. Is selfless b. Is willing to sacrifice c. Is dedicated to service

The Necessity of the Cross Part 1 Acts 2:23 Jesus died on the cross because: 1. His death had been determined from eternity past in accordance with the infinite wisdom of God. The death of Jesus was not ultimately the result of a sinister plot by men. It took place rather in fulfillment of the sovereign plan of God. 2. His death had been declared in advance in the Word of God. 3. He was dedicated to fulfilling the work of God. 4. We disobeyed the will of God. Personal Application: Whenever all looks chaotic, remember that God is in control. When everyone seems to have the right answer, commit to do whatever the Lord commands. When you look at the cross, recognize that you are the cause of Christ's suffering.

The Necessity of the Cross Part 1 Acts 2:23 Jesus died on the cross because: 1. His death had been determined from eternity past in accordance with the infinite wisdom of God. The death of Jesus was not ultimately the result of a sinister plot by men. It took place rather in fulfillment of the sovereign plan of God. 2. His death had been declared in advance in the Word of God. 3. He was dedicated to fulfilling the work of God. 4. We disobeyed the will of God. Personal Application: Whenever all looks chaotic, remember that God is in control. When everyone seems to have the right answer, commit to do whatever the Lord commands. When you look at the cross, recognize that you are the cause of Christ's suffering.

Lose your religion: It won't save you 1. The reality of sin (v 25) 2. The righteousness of the non-religious/ritualistic saints (vv 26-27) 3. The redemption made available through our Savior. (vv 28-29) Our salvation isn't about: Hands Habits It is all about the heart Application: Stop trying to prove your faith through rituals Start growing in obedience not observances Seek the approval of God not men

True Worship of the Savior Matthew 26:6-13 Intro: A. The scene: Vs. 6-9 1. There is obvious rejection: 2. It was a life of isolation from human touch: 3. He had obviously been healed by Jesus: I. True worship doesn't consider the cost: II. True worship is not deterred by those around us: III. True worship is connecting to the heart of God: A. We agree with His position: B. We agree with His plan: IV. True worship is always beautiful in God's eyes:

Part 5 Romans 2:21-24 "Are You a Pretender?" Pretenders: 1. Are false advertisers to the world. (21-22) 2. Make flawed assessments about themselves. (23) 3. Give unbelievers the freedom to accuse God of hypocrisy. (24) Application:

The Indictment Part 4 Romans 2:17-20 Paul discusses two areas of sin among the Jewish people: Pride (17-18) Presumption (19-20) These two areas of sin produced a flawed view of: Their lineage The law Their Lord Their leadership

Hypocrite Part 3: The Verdict Romans 2:11-16 Paul declares three truths regarding God’s judgment: 1. It is impartial (v. 11). 2. It involves the informed (vv. 12-13). 3. It involves the ignorant (vv. 14-15). Application: • Recommit yourself to the Great Commission. • Remember that no one is beyond salvation. • Be real with God and others now instead of later. • Reclaim your conscience by holding it captive to scripture.