Reveal Gathering

Peter, the disciple of Jesus who firsthand saw Christ's ministry, rejected following Jesus at his weakest moment. Oftentimes, we see Peter in our actions, fall into the trap of dismissing Christ. Yet, just as Peter is to be like a rock for the church, so too can Jesus take us and spread His Kingdom. A command stands in the way, pick up your cross and follow Him.

All movements of faith in the Kingdom of God began with one thing: A Prayer. As we close out our series on James, we see that James reminds believers that the lifestyle of the kingdom is marked with a posture of prayer, thanksgiving, and worship. As we live out our faith, the Holy Spirit will meet us and accompany us with power to accomplish God’s Kingdom purposes. And we see that power starts with prayer.

From the start of his letter, James writes about the development and growth of our faith. Through our actions, we are to show our love for God and to people. Yet within our faith and works, what fruit are we producing? Are we manifesting Godliness or worldliness?

A direct reflection into our hearts is seen through the words we speak. Yet James teaches us that, at its core, the tongue is wicked. Just as Jesus redeemed our souls through His saving grace, so also are the words of our heart reclaimed. In order to tame the tongue, an authentic change of heart is required. Only by the transformation of Jesus, can purified speech steer you from death onto life.

In every chapter, James calls the reader to live out their faith. To live a verbal, shallow faith is not what Christ died for. Jesus, on that cross, took up our sin, so that we all may live as one in Him, and to do works for others. To live out your faith is to actively love and serve.

Created in His image, we are all image bearers of our King, Jesus. The walls we build up around ourselves are the very thing Christ tore down on the cross. Only in Jesus, are we all one. In a world full of growing division & hostility towards one another, the church must be the beacon of hope displaying true unity and equality for all.

What factors influence your actions? Anger? Emotion? Strife? In James, we are called to be quiet and hear from others. But that requires intentional listening. We are called as Jesus followers to speak slowly, listen intently, act decisively by while loving Christ and loving people.

Everyday, all around us, 24/7, we see pain, sin, harm, injustice, violence, and damage in this world. Yet, in the midst of suffering, there is joy. As Jesus followers we find joy because suffering produces perseverance; perseverance produces character; and character produces hope. Our hope can never be taken away and never fails. Our hope is to be eternally with the one who died for us, Jesus.

Upon hearing the good news of the Gospel with repentance, God takes you from a life in darkness into His Kingdom of light. To be called by God requires us to be imitators of Him. As imitators of Christ, it may look foolish to society, but it produces authentic discernment to shine through the darkness.

When Biblical wisdom is applied to our lives, what does it look like? Jesus Christ is the perfect example of Biblical wisdom in human form. The character of Christ reveals that a true fear of the LORD results in complete trust in Him. We are thankful for brother Narcis Popovici for taking the time to teach us on how Jesus is our example of Christian character. We are continuing to pray for him and his family, as they spread the Gospel in the Middle East.

When describing generosity, it often finds itself in the same category as wealth and philanthropy. However, generosity is more than just money and prosperity. Generosity is an extension of Godly love to people. Rather than focusing on earthly riches, Biblical generosity focuses on God's Kingdom.

On the third day after His death, the tomb was found empty. Jesus, the resurrected King, fulfilled all prophecies displaying that His Gospel is the true good news. Yet prior to Christ's ascension, He commanded us all with the same mission: go out and spread this Gospel. Whether you are in your home or overseas, the Gospel message remains the same. We all have sinned, and are in need of a Savior.

As followers of Jesus, we all are seeking after God's divine Wisdom. In today's current health crisis, more of God's wisdom is needed everyday. Yet, man's natural inclination is one of self determination and of fear. In order to know God's direct wisdom, all of our trust and anxieties must be placed on Him.

Everyday, words flow out of our mouths. It is your very own words that reflect your character. Even more so, your words will impact your surroundings. Do your words tear down like the fool, or build up like the wise?

Even in the presence of what seems like defeat, God has it all in His hand. No enemy, danger, threat, or virus can interfere God's control. Although this current global health pandemic may evoke fear and cause social distancing, God is always by our side. Faith over fear, worship over worry, and prayer over panic.

What is your identification to Jesus? _________________ Your friends dictate your principles. Friendships are treasures, which should lead you to the prize which is Jesus. What does your current friendships say about your life? What foundation are you building with your friends?

Where does wisdom come from? _________________ From a fear of the Lord. When God came to King Solomon stating he could have anything he desires, Solomon knew of the invaluable riches that comes from wisdom. Divine wisdom is far greater than simply intellectual knowledge. But what is a fear of the Lord? How does it look like?

What are you waiting for? Are you ready to go out and proclaim the gospel? You’re never ready. What matters, is in whose Name and authority you are going in. God will give you the right words to say. How can you do this? Draw near to God, cleanse your hands and purify your hearts. Talk to God. He can only speak to you when you are silent and free from distractions Are you “too busy” for God?

What is substance? It is a tangible matter or presence; the essential part or meaning of something. Our Christian life has to be full of substance. He wants to use you no matter how small or insignificant you think you are. Through you He can do great things. Expect good things from God.

What makes you unique and special? Your faith in God. Christianity is a life of faith in the Promises of God. The Bible states promises of salvation, personal peace, Holy Spirit guidance, and eternal life. Even if they take time to fulfill, doesn’t mean they won’t. What He speaks will come to pass.