Romans 12:1-2

1. Remember Mercy — Understand that God’s mercy is the motivation for a life of sacrifice.
2. Respond Reverently — Offer your body as a living sacrifice in worship.
3. Respect Reality — Recognize that sacrifice involves surrendering your whole life.
4. Reject Replication — Do not conform to the patterns or pressures of this world.
5. Receive Renewal — Be transformed inwardly through the renewal of your mind.
6. Resist Routine — Avoid superficial change; pursue deep, spiritual transformation.
7. Reflect Righteousness — Live a holy life pleasing to God.
8. Recognize Revelation — Discern and approve God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will.
9. Return Regularly — Make daily surrender a lifestyle, not a one-time event.
10. Rejoice Reliantly — Find joy in worshiping God through a transformed life.

1. Private Prayer — Pray in secret, not for public show (v.5-6).
2. Pure Prayer — Avoid vain repetition and empty phrases (v.7-8).
3. Personal Address — Recognize God as Our Father in heaven (v.9).
4. Praise of God — Hallow God’s name with reverence (v.9).
5. Prayer for His Kingdom — Ask for God’s kingdom to come (v.10).
6. Prayer for His Will — Desire God’s will to be done on earth (v.10).
7. Provision Prayer — Depend on God for daily bread (v.11).
8. Prayer for Forgiveness — Seek God’s forgiveness and forgive others (v.12-14).
9. Prayer for Protection — Ask God to lead and deliver from temptation and evil (v.13).
10. Praise for Power — Acknowledge God’s eternal kingdom, power, and glory (v.13, traditional).

1. Love’s Language — Love speaks louder than words (v.1).
2. Love’s Longevity — Love never fails, it endures beyond gifts (v.8).
3. Love’s Lowliness — Love is humble and free from pride (v.4).
4. Love’s Liberty — Love is patient, kind, and selfless (v.4-5).
5. Love’s Loyalty — Love keeps no record of wrongs and trusts always (v.5,7).
6. Love’s Light — Love rejoices in truth and hates evil (v.6).
7. Love’s Labor — Love always protects and perseveres (v.7).
8. Love’s Learning — Love grows through faith and hope (v.13).
9. Love’s Look — Love matures toward full understanding (v.12).
10. Love’s Lordship — The greatest and guiding virtue is love (v.13).

1. The Bible's Divine Origin
  - Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16)
  - Written by human authors inspired by the Holy Spirit

2. The Bible's Authority
  - It is the ultimate authority for faith and practice
  - "All Scripture is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16)

3. The Bible's Unity
  - Despite multiple authors over centuries, it tells one cohesive story
  - Central theme: God's redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ

4. The Bible's Reliability
  - Historical and archaeological evidence supports its accuracy
  - Manuscript evidence attests to its faithful transmission

5. The Bible's Relevance
  - Timeless truths applicable to all cultures and eras
  - Addresses fundamental human needs and questions

6. The Bible's Power
  - "The word of God is alive and active" (Hebrews 4:12)
  - Has the power to convict, transform, and give life

7. The Bible's Clarity
  - Core message is clear and understandable
  - "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105)

8. The Bible's Sufficiency
  - Contains all we need for salvation and godly living
  - No need for additional revelation beyond Scripture

9. The Bible's Purpose
  - To reveal God and His plan of salvation
  - To equip believers for every good work (2 Timothy 3:17)

10. Our Response to the Bible
   - Read it regularly
   - Study it diligently
   - Apply it faithfully
   - Share it boldly

Conclusion: Emphasize the importance of engaging with Scripture daily and allowing it to shape our lives and worldview.

1. God's Love
  - "For God so loved" - God's love is the foundation of the gospel
  - God is love (1 John 4:8)

2. The Object of God's Love
  - "the world" - God loves all people, regardless of race, status, or past
  - God's love is universal and inclusive

3. The Sacrifice of God's Love
  - "that He gave His only begotten Son"
  - Jesus Christ dying on the cross for our sins

4. The Gift of God's Love
  - Eternal life
  - Not earned, but freely given (Romans 6:23)

5. The Condition of Receiving God's Gift
  - "whoever believes in Him"
  - Faith as the means of receiving salvation

6. The Alternative to Believing
  - "should not perish"
  - The reality of judgment for those who reject Christ

7. The Promise to Believers
  - "but have everlasting life"
  - Assurance of eternal life for those who believe

8. The Uniqueness of Christ
  - "His only begotten Son"
  - Jesus as the exclusive way to salvation

9. The Simplicity of the Gospel
  - One verse summarizes the core of Christian faith
  - Accessible and understandable to all

10. The Call to Response
   - Invitation to believe in Christ
   - Urgency of making a decision about Jesus

Conclusion: Emphasize the personal nature of John 3:16 - it's not just about "the world" but about each individual. Encourage listeners to respond to God's love by believing in Jesus Christ..

1. Definition of Faith
  - Trust and confidence in God
  - Belief in things unseen (Hebrews 11:1)

2. The Importance of Faith
  - Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6)
  - Faith is the foundation of our relationship with God

3. Faith Comes from Hearing God's Word
  - "Faith comes from hearing the message" (Romans 10:17)
  - Importance of studying and meditating on Scripture

4. Faith Requires Action
  - "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:26)
  - True faith leads to obedience and good works

5. The Power of Faith
  - Faith can move mountains (Matthew 17:20)
  - Through faith we overcome the world (1 John 5:4)

6. Growing in Faith
  - Faith can increase (Luke 17:5)
  - Trials and difficulties can strengthen our faith (James 1:2-4)

7. Examples of Faith in Scripture
  - Abraham, Moses, David, etc. (Hebrews 11)
  - Learning from the faith of others

8. Faith vs. Doubt
  - Addressing doubts honestly
  - Turning doubts into stronger faith (like Thomas)

9. Living by Faith Daily
  - Walking by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7)
  - Trusting God in all circumstances

10. The Goal of Our Faith
   - Salvation of our souls (1 Peter 1:9)
   - Eternal life with God

Conclusion: Encourage listeners to examine and strengthen their faith, reminding them that true faith in Christ is the anchor that will hold through life's storms.

Chapter 1: Judgment against Samaria and Jerusalem
Chapter 2: Judgment against oppressors
Chapter 3: Judgment against leaders
Chapter 4: Future hope and restoration
Chapter 5: Promise of a Messiah
Chapter 6: God's case against Israel
Chapter 7: Israel's misery and hope in God

Micah Chapter 1:

## Introduction to Micah

## 1. The Prophet's Call

Micah begins with a call to the people to hear the word of the Lord, emphasizing the divine origin of his message (Micah 1:1)

## 2. God's Sovereign Judgment

The chapter highlights God's sovereignty as He comes from His holy temple to judge the earth, underscoring that His judgment is universal and just (Micah 1:2-3).

## 3. The Sins of Samaria and Jerusalem

Micah specifically targets Samaria and Jerusalem for their sins, symbolizing the broader corruption of Israel and Judah (Micah 1:5-7).

## 4. The Instrument of Judgment

The Assyrian invasion is depicted as God’s instrument for executing judgment on Samaria, illustrating how God uses nations to fulfill His purposes (Micah 1:6).

## 5. The Lamentation of Micah

Micah expresses deep sorrow over the coming destruction, demonstrating the prophet's empathy and connection with his people (Micah 1:8-9).

## 6. Play on Words with Place Names

Micah uses wordplay with the names of towns in Judah to emphasize the certainty and severity of coming judgment (Micah 1:10-16).

## 7. The Certainty of Judgment

The chapter conveys that judgment is not just a possibility but a certainty due to persistent sin and rebellion against God.

## 8. The Call for Repentance

Implicit in Micah’s message is a call for repentance, urging the people to turn back to God before it is too late.

## 9. Hope Beyond Judgment

While Micah chapter 1 focuses on judgment, it sets the stage for later messages of hope and restoration found in subsequent chapters.

## 10. Relevance for Today

Micah's message remains relevant as it challenges us to examine our own lives, recognize injustices, and turn back to God with humility. 

In conclusion, Micah chapter 1 serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice and mercy, calling us to repentance and faithfulness in our walk with Him.

Micah chapter 2:

## 1. The Plotting of Evil

Micah condemns those who lie awake at night devising wicked schemes, highlighting the intentional nature of their sin.

## 2. Covetousness and Oppression

The prophet exposes the greed of those who covet fields and houses, then seize them through oppression.

## 3. God's Judgment Proclaimed

Micah announces God's plan to bring disaster upon these evildoers, from which they will not be able to save themselves.

## 4. Loss of Inheritance

As punishment, the wicked will lose their portion among God's people, symbolizing their separation from God's blessings.

## 5. Rejection of True Prophecy

The people refuse to listen to Micah's warnings, preferring instead false prophets who tell them what they want to hear.

## 6. False Security

Micah rebukes those who falsely believe that God's patience means He will never judge them.

## 7. The Desire for False Prophets

The people prefer "lying windbags" who encourage them to continue in their sinful ways.

## 8. Promise of Restoration

Despite the coming judgment, God promises to gather a remnant of His people.

## 9. The Breaker Who Leads

Micah prophesies about a leader who will break open the way for his people, likely pointing to the Messiah.

## 10. God's Faithfulness Amid Judgment

Even in pronouncing judgment, Micah's message contains hope, showing God's ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

In conclusion, Micah 2 presents a stark contrast between human wickedness and divine justice, while also offering hope through God's promise of future restoration. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions, urging repentance and faithfulness to God's ways.

Micah chapter 3:

## 1. The Failure of Leadership

Micah condemns the leaders of Israel for their corruption and abuse of power.

## 2. Perversion of Justice

The prophet highlights how those in authority have twisted justice for personal gain.

## 3. False Security

Leaders mistakenly believe that God is with them despite their wicked actions.

## 4. Spiritual Blindness

Micah describes how sin has blinded the leaders to God's truth and coming judgment.

## 5. Prophets for Profit

False prophets are rebuked for proclaiming peace when paid, but declaring war against those who don't feed them.

## 6. True Prophecy vs. False Prophecy

Micah contrasts his own Spirit-filled ministry with that of the false prophets.

## 7. The Power of God's Spirit

The prophet emphasizes that he is filled with power, justice, and might by the Spirit of the Lord.

## 8. Corruption in All Spheres

Micah exposes how sin has infected religious, political, and judicial leadership.

## 9. The Consequences of Sin

The chapter warns of the severe judgment coming because of the leaders' actions.

## 10. The Destruction of Jerusalem

Micah prophesies that Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins because of the people's sins.

In conclusion, Micah 3 serves as a powerful indictment against corrupt leadership and false prophecy. It challenges us to examine our own integrity, to seek true spiritual power from God, and to pursue justice in all areas of life. The chapter reminds us that God holds leaders to a high standard and that there are serious consequences for those who abuse their positions of authority.

Micah chapter 4:

## 1. The Exaltation of God's House

Micah prophesies that in the last days, the mountain of the Lord's house will be established as the highest of mountains, drawing all nations to it.

## 2. The Nations Seek God

Many peoples will come to learn God's ways and walk in His paths, showing a universal desire to know and follow the Lord.

## 3. God's Word Goes Forth

The law and word of the Lord will go out from Zion and Jerusalem, emphasizing the centrality of God's truth.

## 4. Divine Judgment and Peace

God will judge between nations and settle disputes, leading to unprecedented peace where weapons of war are transformed into tools of agriculture.

## 5. Security and Prosperity

People will live in safety and enjoy the fruits of their labor, symbolized by sitting under their own vine and fig tree.

## 6. Faithfulness to God

While others may follow their own gods, God's people commit to walking in the name of the Lord forever.

## 7. Restoration of the Remnant

God promises to gather the lame, the exiles, and the afflicted, making them into a strong nation.

## 8. God's Eternal Reign

The Lord will rule over His people in Mount Zion forever, establishing His eternal kingdom.

## 9. Redemption Through Suffering

Micah foretells a time of pain and exile for Jerusalem, but also promises deliverance and victory.

## 10. God's Ultimate Plan

Despite current troubles, the chapter emphasizes God's overarching plan for His people's restoration and global impact.

In conclusion, Micah 4 offers a powerful vision of hope and restoration, contrasting sharply with the judgment pronounced in earlier chapters. It reminds us that God's ultimate plan includes peace, justice, and the gathering of all nations under His rule. This chapter challenges us to remain faithful to God, even in difficult times, and to look forward to the fulfillment of His promises.

Micah chapter 5:

## 1. The Siege of Jerusalem

Micah begins by describing a siege against Jerusalem, setting the stage for the coming of the Messiah.

## 2. The Birthplace of the Messiah

The prophet foretells that the Messiah will come from Bethlehem Ephrathah, a small and seemingly insignificant town.

## 3. The Eternal Nature of the Messiah

Micah emphasizes the divine nature of the coming ruler, whose origins are "from of old, from ancient days".

## 4. The Temporary Abandonment

There's a period of abandonment until the time when "she who is in labor gives birth", likely referring to Israel's exile and eventual restoration.

## 5. The Shepherd-King

The Messiah is portrayed as a shepherd who will lead and care for his flock in the strength and majesty of the Lord.

## 6. The Peace-Bringer

This ruler will be their peace, providing security and stability for His people.

## 7. The Defeat of Enemies

Micah prophesies that when Assyria invades, God will raise up leaders to defend the land.

## 8. The Remnant's Influence

The remnant of Jacob will be like dew among the nations, bringing refreshment and life.

## 9. The Purification of God's People

God promises to purge His people of idolatry and false security, removing their reliance on military might and occult practices.

## 10. God's Vengeance on the Nations

The chapter concludes with a warning of God's judgment on the nations that have not obeyed Him.

In conclusion, Micah 5 presents a powerful prophecy of the coming Messiah, blending promises of hope and restoration with warnings of judgment. It challenges us to place our trust in God's appointed ruler rather than in human strength or false securities. This chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness to His promises and His ultimate plan for redemption through the Messiah.

Micah chapter 6:

## 1. The Divine Courtroom

Micah opens with a courtroom scene where God calls His people to plead their case before the mountains, symbolizing a divine trial (Micah 6:1).

## 2. God's Grievance

God questions what He has done to burden Israel, highlighting His past acts of deliverance and faithfulness (Micah 6:3-5).

## 3. The Futility of Rituals

The people ask what offerings they should bring to please God, from burnt offerings to their firstborn, revealing a misunderstanding of true worship (Micah 6:6-7).

## 4. What God Requires

Micah delivers the famous declaration that God requires justice, mercy, and humility, not mere ritualistic sacrifices (Micah 6:8).

## 5. Indictment of Injustice

God condemns the city for its dishonest practices, such as deceitful weights and measures, emphasizing the moral decay in society (Micah 6:10-11).

## 6. Consequences of Sin

The chapter describes the consequences of Israel's sins: destruction, dissatisfaction, and unfulfilled efforts (Micah 6:13-15).

## 7. The Role of Prophets

Micah serves as a true prophet who calls out injustice and points the people back to God's requirements.

## 8. The Misuse of Wealth

The text criticizes those who accumulate wealth through unethical means, highlighting the need for integrity.

## 9. Call to Repentance

Implicit in Micah's message is a call for repentance and a return to genuine faithfulness to God.

## 10. Hope Through Obedience

Despite the judgment pronounced, there is hope for restoration if the people choose to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

In conclusion, Micah chapter 6 challenges us to move beyond empty rituals and embrace a life characterized by justice, mercy, and humility before God. It serves as a timeless reminder that true worship is reflected in our actions and relationships with others.

Micah chapter 7:

## 1. The Prophet's Lament

Micah begins with a cry of distress, lamenting the lack of godly people and the prevalence of sin in society (Micah 7:1-4).

## 2. Breakdown of Social Trust

The prophet warns against placing trust in friends or even family members, as betrayal has become commonplace (Micah 7:5-6).

## 3. Hope in the Lord

Despite the grim circumstances, Micah expresses his unwavering hope in God, waiting for Him to act (Micah 7:7).

## 4. Confession and Repentance

Micah acknowledges the sins of the people and accepts God's discipline, trusting in His ultimate vindication (Micah 7:8-9).

## 5. God's Judgment on Enemies

The prophet foresees a time when God will judge Israel's enemies and bring shame upon those who mocked God's people (Micah 7:10).

## 6. Promise of Restoration

Micah prophesies the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the expansion of its borders (Micah 7:11-12).

## 7. Judgment on the Nations

The earth will be desolate because of the deeds of its inhabitants, fulfilling God's righteous judgment (Micah 7:13).

## 8. Prayer for God's Intervention

Micah petitions God to shepherd His people and protect them as in days of old (Micah 7:14).

## 9. God's Miraculous Deliverance

The Lord promises to show His people marvelous things, as He did when He brought them out of Egypt (Micah 7:15-17).

## 10. Celebration of God's Character

The book concludes with a powerful affirmation of God's unique character - His forgiveness, compassion, and faithfulness to His covenant promises (Micah 7:18-20).

In conclusion, Micah 7 moves from lament to hope, from judgment to restoration, and ultimately to a celebration of God's character. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, we can trust in God's unfailing love and faithfulness. The chapter challenges us to maintain our integrity in a corrupt world, to place our hope in God alone, and to rejoice in His forgiving and compassionate nature.

• God’s impartiality proclaimed
  
  • Peter declares that God accepts people from every nation who fear Him and do what is right, breaking the barrier of Jew-Gentile distinction.

• Peter’s proclamation: faith for forgiveness
  
  • The message centers on faith in Jesus for forgiveness of sins, not on heritage or works, highlighting grace as the path to reconciliation.

• Jesus’ life and ministry established
  
  • Jesus’ deeds, death, and resurrection are presented as the authoritative testimony confirming the messianic mission for all peoples.

• Eyewitness evidence: witnesses testify
  
  • The apostles and others who witnessed Jesus’ earthly ministry, death, and resurrection testify to what they saw and heard.

• Empty tomb as proof of life
  
  • The resurrection demonstrates Jesus’ ultimate victory over death and validates the gospel message for all nations.

• Command to preach to all nations
  
  • The risen Christ commissions all believers to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name to every people group.

• Cross-cultural call to repentance
  
  • The universal invitation invites Gentiles and Jews alike to turn from sin and align with God’s purposes.

• Confirmation through witnesses’ testimony
  
  • The witnesses’ unified testimony reinforces the reliability of the good news beyond cultural or national boundaries.

• Consequence: grace available to all
  
  • Salvation is described as universally accessible through faith, not restricted by background or boundary.

• Celebration: salvation seen among nations
  
  • The inclusion of Gentiles into the people of God marks a transformative expansion of the church’s mission and mission’s message.

Paul’s pastoral wrap-up calls believers to posture and practice that reflect the coming of the Lord and the daily life of holiness. This passage moves from relational leadership to practical moral exhortations, culminating in a call to discernment and obedience.
 

Recognize respected roles
 

• Content: Acknowledge those who labor among you, those who lead in the gospel, and those who admonish with sound doctrine; honor them in love and cooperation.
   
• Purpose: Strengthen unity and enable faithful ministry by honoring godly leadership.
   

Honor honest helpers
 

• Content: Respect and support those who diligently serve the body, sharing in hardships and extending encouragement.
   
• Purpose: Foster a culture of gratitude and mutual accountability within the church.
   

Gracious guidance: rejoice always
 

• Content: Rejoice in the Lord at all times; let joy be a defining Christian habit, independent of circumstances.
   
• Purpose: Cultivate unshakeable joy as a witness and spiritual discipline.
   

Pray perpetually: praise and petition
 

• Content: Pray without ceasing, integrating petition with praise; cultivate a daily rhythm of talking with God.
   
• Purpose: Anchor the believer in dependence on God and align will with divine purposes.
   

Give thanks daily: grateful living
 

• Content: In every circumstance give thanks; cultivate a heart of gratitude that acknowledges God’s goodness amid trials.
   
• Purpose: Reframe hardship as an opportunity to witness God’s faithfulness.
   

Do not quench the Spirit
 

• Content: Do not suppress or disregard the Holy Spirit’s work in conviction, empowerment, and guidance.
   
• Purpose: Remain open to divine leading and spiritual gifts for edification and mission.
   

Do not despise discernment
 

• Content: Test prophetic words and teachers against Scripture; discernment guards the church from deception.
   
• Purpose: Preserve doctrinal integrity while remaining teachable and humble.
   

Test all things; hold to the good
 

• Content: Hold fast to what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable; reject what is evil or harmful.
   
• Purpose: Shape choices, media consumption, and interactions by virtuous standards.
   

Abstain from every appearance of evil
 

• Content: Exercise cautious boundaries to avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing; pursue holiness in conduct and speech.
   
• Purpose: Protect witness and cultivate a lifestyle that honors Christ.
   

Final exhortations: yourself, siblings, and submission
 

• Content: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, and hold fast to what is good as you live in holiness; encourage others, comfort, strengthen, and mutually support one another; submit to God’s timing and authority in all things.
   
• Purpose: Cement a cohesive, resilient, mission-minded community ready for Christ’s return.
   

Introduction

• Light in the darkness: Psalm 27 centers on confidence in God’s protection and presence, even amid fear and opposition. The psalmist moves from fear to faith by focusing on God as light, salvation, and stronghold. This outline preserves that arc while inviting personal trust and devotional depth.

Comfort over fear

• Content: The Lord is my light, dispelling darkness and revealing paths safe for stepping; fear flees when divine radiance surrounds.
• Purpose: Establish a posture of fearless trust in God’s illuminating presence.

Coverage for refuge

• Content: The Lord is my salvation, a fortress in danger, a refuge in distress who preserves and delivers.
• Purpose: Ground confidence in God’s saving power rather than human strength.

Canopy of shelter

• Content: The Lord is the fortress, a steadfast defense when enemies close in, offering shelter and safety.
• Purpose: Encourage reliance on God as an impregnable defense.

Communion's sincerity

• Content: The Psalmist seeks God’s face, not merely His benefits, longing for intimate communion with the Lord.
• Purpose: Reorient prayers toward relationship over requests.

Cries for counsel

• Content: In the time of trouble, petition rises to God; patience and persistence in prayer invite divine response.
• Purpose: Highlight perseverance in approaching God with honest petitions.

Confidence in the unseen

• Content: I believe I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living, trusting future grace even when sights are bleak.
• Purpose: Nurture hopeful anticipation of God’s daily blessings

Courage cultivated by communion

• Content: Be strong and of good courage, wait on the Lord, and allow His presence to empower steadfast action.
• Purpose: Link spiritual proximity to practical perseverance.

Courageous consecration

• Content: Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a level path; align steps with God’s righteous design.
• Purpose: Encourage daily obedience as the pathway to safety and blessing

Covenant confidence

• Content: Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take heart—God’s promises are sure, guiding toward holy assurance.
• Purpose: Fortify patience as a spiritual discipline rooted in God’s character.

Conclusion of Luminous Love.

• Content: One thing I ask of the Lord—to dwell in His house all my days, beholding His beauty and seeking Him at His temple; ultimate desire is worship, reverence, and uninterrupted fellowship.
• Purpose: Culminate in a lifelong orientation of worshipful trust, where God’s light and salvation define every moment.