Luke 1:39-80

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 10, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 1:39-80. These chapters cover Mary, Elizabeth, and Zechariah’s response to God working in their life. The prominent theme of advent is the transformative nature of this season. God is working peculiar things in His people and changing the lives of those who follow Him. On the eve of God’s second advent, God is still looking to transform the lives of men and women.

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Read Luke 1:39-45

As the women greet each other, Elizabeth’s unborn child (John) leaps in her womb, and Elizabeth is fill with the Holy Spirit. Evidently, the Holy Spirit revealed to her that Mary was carrying the Messiah. We see Mary, Elizabeth and her unborn son full of joy. This scripture shows us how precious human life is. No mistake in this message regarding the sanctity of life as the unborn child leaps for joy in the presence of the unborn Savior. Just as all of them were full of faith and joy at this first advent, we are reminded that we too should be full of faith and joy as we wait expectantly for the second advent – Christ’s return. In what ways are you preparing for Christ’s return?

Read Luke 1:46-56

Mary responds to Elizabeth’s cry of joy and proclamation with a song. This song is very similar to Hannah’s song of praise in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. Mary knew the song of Hannah, which shows us an important fact. We need to KNOW the word of God! We need to be able to recognize when God is speaking and have the ability to stand firm when we face difficulty. It is easy to live on what you THINK the Bible says, rather than what you KNOW it says. Marshall reminded us today that “snacking” on God’s word is not the same as FEASTING on it! How much time are you spending in God’s word each day? Are you snacking or eating a full meal?

Read Luke 1:57-66

In this passage, we see the transformation taking place in Zechariah. A man who was once filled with doubt and unbelief becomes a man who is filled with faith and a willingness to follow God rather than cultural traditions. Elizabeth and Zechariah named their son John, which went against the customs of their time. They obeyed God, not the opinions of man. Are we willing to do that? When the world tells us how we should act, think, speak or respond in any given situation, are we quick to go along or do we listen to the voice of God and do as He instructs us? Another great observation in this passage is that while Zechariah couldn’t speak for 9 months, he had no other choice but to do a lot more listening! Marshall reminded us that we can learn a lot if we stop talking so much and listen more! This reminds me of two passages – James 1 and Proverbs 10. Are you quick to speak before you think? Do your words often cause pain, destruction or lack of faith rather than comfort, healing and encouragement? If you struggle with your tongue, ask the Lord to take control of it and use it for good rather than evil.

Read Luke 1:67-80

Zechariah went from a man full of religious ritual and doubt, to a man filled with faith and boldness in declaring God’s faithfulness. God is looking for those who are filled with faith and willing to surrender ALL of themselves. Do you desire to be that kind of person? If your answer is “yes,” but you struggle with the “how,” the answer is pretty clear and basic – PRAY! Prayer changes everything! If prayer has not been a regular daily part of your life, please be encouraged to start today! Let this advent season be a season of transformation for you this year! Watch and see how God transforms your life as you seek Him through prayer and the study of His word.

Luke 1:1-38

Pastor Marshall Ochs | December 3, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from Luke 1:1-38. These verses cover the angelic announcement of John’s birth and Jesus’ birth. The two accounts are recorded together so we can see the parallels in the story. The message from Gabriel was similar, but the reactions were very different. Zechariah responded with unbelief, but Mary responded with faith. These responses are important as we ponder our reactions to the second advent of Jesus.

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Read Luke 1:1-4

Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts compiled his accounts from first-hand experiences and eyewitness testimonies. Theophilus, for whom Luke wrote, had been taught but needed certainty. Luke's message provided that certainty by offering a well-documented and truthful account of the life, teachings, and miracles of Jesus Christ.

In many ways, we all share a common thread with Theophilus. We, too, need constant reminders. Just as God instructed Joshua to meditate on His laws and follow them carefully, we should also be disciplined in studying God's Word. Confidence in our faith takes root when we are disciplined to be in God's Word daily. This commitment should not be viewed as a mere checklist item for us every morning but rather as a sincere heart to seek God wholeheartedly and surrender ourselves entirely to Him.

How can you relate to Theophilus in your own spiritual walk? Have there been times when you needed greater certainty or a deeper understanding?

Read Joshua 1:1-9

Reflect on the comparison with Joshua meditating on God's laws. How can discipline in daily Scripture help build your faith and deepen your relationship with God?

Read Luke 1:5-38

As we move through the first chapter of Luke, we encounter two parallel accounts that reveal the contrasting responses of two individuals when confronted with the divine message of the first advent – the coming of Jesus. Zechariah, a priest, and Mary, a young girl, both received a visitation from an angel, but their reactions were profoundly different.

Zechariah's encounter with the angel left him in disbelief. On the other hand, Mary, a young and humble girl, responded to the angel with faith and surrender. She accepted the incredible news that she would conceive and give birth to the Savior, declaring, "I am God's servant; let it be to me according to your word."

Luke presents these two accounts side by side to highlight the stark contrast in their responses. It serves as a reminder that at the first advent of Christ, those who should have known and believed often struggled with doubt, while those who might have been overlooked by society, such as Mary, demonstrated unwavering faith.

Consider your own response to God's promises and plans in your life. Are there areas where you have doubted or questioned, like Zechariah? How can you grow in trust and surrender to God's will?

Zechariah and Mary's story reminds us that Christ's advent is marked by unexpectedness. It challenges us to examine our faith and readiness for the second advent, encouraging us to trust in God's promises and to embrace the unexpected ways His plans may unfold in our lives and the world.

2 Thessalonians 2-3

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 19, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Thessalonians 2-3. Paul closes his letter to the church with a warning against Christians who live idle lives. In light of the glorious new life Christ has given to us, we should be hard at work in God’s vineyard. When Jesus returns He should find us accomplishing the Lord’s plans and building His kingdom. If a church member refuses to stay busy with God’s work, Paul’s instruction is to disassociate with them until they turn in repentance.

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Read 2 Thessalonians 2:9-17

In 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 Paul paints a vivid picture of the end times, where Satan will empower the antichrist to perform signs and wonders, deceiving the nations. Why? Because the nations, tragically, have chosen deception over truth. They have embraced darkness and lies, and in response, God allows them to sink deeper into their delusion. I can’t help but continue to think of the quote Marshall shared this morning from C.S. Lewis: “God is love, but the world sees love as God.” It's such a slight change in words but a complete lie.

Now, why is this important? Paul is setting up a powerful contrast in verses 13-15. On one side, we have the nations, deceived, condemned, and blind, chasing after darkness. On the other side, we find you, dear believers, saved, called beloved, and sanctified. You are no longer blind; you see the light of truth. While the nations chase after darkness, you pursue the light. God has chosen you and called you out of that darkness. You are no longer who you used to be.

So, what do we do with this profound reality? Paul's message is clear:

Stand Firm: In this new reality, stand firm in your faith. Let nothing shake your mind or deter you from the path of truth. The storms of deception may rage, but you stand unshaken.

Hold to the Traditions and Commands: Obey God's Word faithfully. It is your guide in this world filled with deceit. Let the Word of God shape your character, actions, and speech.

Comfort Believers: Walk out this reality daily and speak it out to others. Comfort your fellow believers with the truth. Let your life be a testimony to the transformative power of God's grace.

As Pastor Marshall noted, this echoes a theme we find in the life of David in 1-2 Samuel. What David believed about God shaped his character, actions, and speech. Similarly, Paul emphasizes that who you are and belong to should change everything about you. When you truly grasp the reality of your salvation and sanctification, you handle life differently. Your perspective and speech are different, and your actions reflect the light you now walk in.

As we reflect on these words, let us remember that we are the chosen, the beloved, and the sanctified. We are the ones who walk in the light of truth while the world may

stumble in darkness. May our lives be a testament to this reality as we stand firm, obey God's Word, and comfort one another in the knowledge of our transformation through Christ. May the lost see our joy amid chaos and long to know more of our hope in Jesus Christ!

Read 2 Thessalonians 3

In chapter 3, Paul implores the Thessalonians to pray fervently for them in specific ways: spread of the gospel, that what happened in Thessalonica would happen everywhere, and deliverance and protection from evil and wickedness. Paul's words carry divine inspiration. Let us embrace them in our prayers, weaving Paul's requests into our time with God. May we pray for a revival, that His light may shine brightly.

As you study and pray through 2 Thessalonians, will you invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate any areas where you might inadvertently focus on idleness? Paul's teaching is straightforward; he commands us to be diligent and active in our work. As Marshall pointed out, the specifics of our work may look very different, but certain practices and aspects remain consistent for all of us. These practices include daily study of God's Word, dedicating time to prayer, engaging in worship, and looking for ways to demonstrate the love of Christ to others.

2 Thessalonians 1-2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 12, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Thessalonians 1-2. The church is concerned that they have missed the Day of the Lord. Paul addresses their concerns by making reference to Jesus’ teaching in the Olivet Discourse. They have not missed the Day of the Lord because certain events must take place before Jesus returns. Paul outlines these events and his message brings comfort to us today.

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• Do I encourage others, boast about their successes and positive qualities, or do I focus on the negative?

• Are you prepared for the coming of Christ? Will He find you to be faithful to Him or simply pretending to truly know Him as your Savior?

• When people look at your life, do they see Jesus?

• How often are you in God’s word? If there is not a daily time of reading God’s word, but you are only listening to other forms of information, (i.e., news, podcasts, books, other people’s opinions) you will not be able to discern truth from lies and can easily be deceived.

• We must live with our eyes open to the signs around us and the knowledge that time is of the essence. If you knew that you only had 7 years of life left before the return of Christ, how would you live differently? Please read Mathew 25: 1-13 in closing and reflect on how God is leading you to prepare for His return.

1 Thessalonians 4-5

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 5, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Thessalonians 4-5. These chapters cover the Day of the Lord and the resurrection of the saints. Paul clearly outlines the order of events at Jesus’ second coming to encourage the church to overcome the fear of death, for themselves and their loved ones. This message is filled with hope and encouragement.

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1 Thessalonians 3-4

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 29, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Thessalonians 3-4. Paul wrote this letter shortly after planting the church and his desire was to check on their spiritual condition. Timothy gave news that the church was healthy and fruitful, but a few key areas needed addressing. In these chapters, Paul address the issue of sexual immorality and the daily life of a Christian.

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1. In 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20, Marshall reminded us that Paul wanted the church to know that Satan is always at work trying to thwart the work of God in His people and in His church. We must be aware and guard ourselves with the full armor of God. If we don’t, we will see our lives getting out of control and falling easily into sin. When you wake up in the morning, what is the first thing you do? If it isn’t prayer and getting into God’s word, then the world gets in and the enemy uses that to distract us and keep us from what the Lord is trying to do in us and through us. If this has not been your priority, please take the time to reprioritize the start to your day and see what happens.

2. Paul also reminded the church that it is the bride of Christ. The church is not a social club or a self-help group. We are to be about preparing for Christ’s return, and we are to be ablaze for Christ – pure, spotless, full of hope and joy. When Christ returns, what kind of bride will he find you to be?

3. In Chapter 3, Timothy returns with encouraging news. The church in Thessalonica is filled with faith and love. This is comforting news to Paul. A healthy church lifts burdens, (i.e., discipleship, financial, hospitality, ministry, etc.) A church filled with faith and love is a healthy church and is exactly what the world needs. Paul prays for this church, and we should be doing the same for our church and the churches in our community, country and world. Read over Paul’s prayer and make that a part of your daily prayers for your family, Red Hills Church, missionaries and other churches/believers in our world today.

4. Paul is glad that the church is growing and doing well. However, he is concerned about one issue – sexual sin. The Gentiles were bringing old customs into new churches which involved sexual immorality. Most men in this culture had mistresses, slaves, concubines, harlots, temple prostitutes and a wife. Paul reminds them that they are to live holy in their sexuality. Anything beyond one man and one woman in biblical marriage is sin. If you are a Christian, you are expected to live a sexually pure life. If this is an area of sin you struggle with, repent, seek the Lord and if needed, seek help from a leader in our church.

5. Paul goes on in chapter 4 to encourage believers to show brotherly love even more than they already were. He tells them to live quietly, minding their own affairs and work. We should not be loud and obnoxious, being nosey, gossiping, or a burden financially to others. Why are these things important? Because these things will affect our witness to others. Please read the “conclusion” in Marhsall’s notes. Take the time to read over 1 Thessalonians 3-4 and ask the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. May you be blessed this week!

1 Thessalonians 1-2

Pastor Sean Doughtie | October 22, 2023

In this message, Pastor Sean teaches from 1 Thessalonians 1-2. These chapters address the faith of the young Thessalonian church and the impact of their testimony on the region. Paul address the nature of his character in ministry, using the language of parenthood to describe his care for etc people. He thanks God for the Thessalonians, because they received the Word of God, and the Word had produced fruit in their lives.

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1. How does Paul's commitment to spreading the gospel inspire your faith journey?

2. Can you think of a time when you felt a deep passion for sharing the message of Christ with others? The transformative power of the Holy Spirit becomes evident when individuals embrace the gospel. When we share Jesus with others, we rely on the Holy Spirit to illuminate their understanding and persuade them of their need for salvation.

3. Are there specific people you can share the gospel with in your life?

4. In what ways does Paul's affectionate tone toward the Thessalonian church challenge you to love and care for fellow believers?

5. Reflect on the concept of being "in God" as described in Colossians 3:3. How does this idea of being hidden with Christ in God provide comfort and security in your faith?

6. As we reflect on 1 Thessalonians 1 and Paul's passion for the gospel, his love for the people, his approach to evangelism, and his desire to instill values and character in the early church, let us also seek to imitate these qualities in our faith journey. May we be inspired to share the gospel boldly and love one another deeply.

2 Samuel 23-24

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 15, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Samuel 23-24. These chapters cover David’s final reflections on leadership and the consequences of taking a census. These chapters help us see the wonderful blessings that godly leadership brings to God’s people as well as the warning to not idolize leadership. The warning exposes the temptation of leaders to look to people for answers and the temptation for people to put all their hope in leaders.

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1. Godly leaders, who fear the Lord are compared to the sun on a clear sky morning. Worthless leaders are compared to thorns which no one wants to touch. When David was following God’s leading, Israel was blessed. When he was full of disobedience, Israel suffered. As you reflect on this, take inventory on what kind of leader you are in the areas of influence you have.

2. What areas of influence and leadership has God placed you in? (Family, friendships, workplace, church and community.) What kind of atmosphere do you cultivate in these areas by your choices of conduct? Do you lead with godliness, justice, equity, compassion, mercy, etc.? Do you lead with harshness, selfishness, impatience, greed, etc.? Are you more concerned with how circumstances will affect you rather than how they impact others?

3. What kind of leaders do you follow? One of the mistakes we can make is idolizing or worshiping leaders. As leaders, we can also fall into the pit of desiring and enjoying the worship of others. Both are dangerous! Human leaders fail. The only One truly worthy of following and worshiping is Jesus! Marshall reminded us today that if Christ is not working through us, then the enemy is! If we aren’t aspiring to being a godly leader, then we are a worthless one!

4. We see the leaders in David’s army and their achievements recorded in chapter 23. This serves as a reminder to us that our names are recorded in the Book of Life if we have made the decision to follow Christ. We have an inheritance! Like these soldiers, we will be rewarded. We must hold fast to our faith, never give up and take courage – even when things are challenging and difficult. We must stay faithful to our God!

5. In chapter 24, David is once again tested and falls prey to putting his trust in the size of his army rather than in God. This causes the consequence of a plague killing 70,000 of his men. When we put our trust in anything or anyone over our trust in God, be aware that God may remove that very thing or person we have put our confidence in.