The Word from Mountain View

3 Circles - October 27, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. As we explore the Word together, we uncover a unique method of sharing the good news using three simple circles, a concept inspired by Pastor Scroggins from Family Church, Florida.

Amidst the beauty of creation, from breathtaking sunsets to the birth of new life, we often face the harsh reality of a broken world. This sermon guides us in reflecting on God's perfect design and how sin leads us away from it. We explore the consequences of departing from God's plan and the brokenness it brings, while finding hope in the gospel message of redemption through Jesus Christ.

Discover how Jesus paid the debt of our sin, offering us a path to recovery and purpose. By repenting and believing in the good news, we can embrace God's grace and live according to His design. Whether you're contemplating your spiritual journey or ready to take the next step, this message encourages you to find your place in God's masterpiece and live a life of fulfillment and purpose.

Join us as we navigate the road from brokenness to wholeness, celebrating the transformative power of the gospel and God's eternal love for each of us. May this sermon inspire you to seek a deeper understanding of God's plan and His unwavering grace.

Come and See -October 20, 2024

Join us in today's sermon podcast as we explore the Apostle Paul's prayer request and the profound impact of personal invitations to faith.  The sermon emphasizes the importance of fearlessly sharing the gospel and God's plan for our lives.

Reflecting on a personal journey with the Church of the Nazarene, the sermon highlights the incredible transformations witnessed when people are invited to "come and see" what God is doing. Through the story of a small church in Lemoore, California, we learn how simple invitations led to miraculous changes in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction, broken marriages, and more.

Delve into the biblical narrative from John 1, where the ripple effect of relationships and invitations to follow Jesus are explored. Discover how the disciples' encounters with Christ brought about radical transformations and confessions of faith.

This sermon challenges us to reach out, build meaningful relationships, and invite others to experience the hope and joy found in Jesus. As we prepare for next week's fall celebration, we are encouraged to invite others to hear the good news and witness the transformative power of God's love.

With Pastor Mike Curry.

“Come and See”

John 1:35-49

Main Idea: Other people come to faith in Jesus Christ because of personal connections with believers.

1. The Ripple Effect of Relationships

John the Baptizer - “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (vs. 35-37)

>  John, son of Zebedee (Matthew 4:21-22)  

              >  James, son of Zebedee

>  Andrew - “We have found the Messiah” (vs. 38-42)

                             >   Simon {Peter} - “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16)

>  Philip - “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law…” (vs. 43-49)

                             > Nathaniel {Bartholomew} - “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”

2. The Principle of Bonding

• Relationships are the glue that bonds people to the church.
  • The fewer relationships a person has in a church, the more apt that person is to leave.
  • The more relationships a person has in a church, the greater their potential for staying and participation.
• It takes, on average, 7 “touches” and  3  “hearings” for some to come to Christ.
  • Touches = Personal contacts
  • Hearings = Clear presentations of the Good News

3. The Power of an Invitation

• Jesus invitation to “come and see” transformed lives.
• The disciples’ invitation to “come and see” radically changed lives.
• Who are you inviting to come and see?

Action Steps: 

Over the next 30 days…

• Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
• Receive and read an email and/or text.
• Participate in at least one prayer walk.
• Send a note or email to 5 people.
• Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live

Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter

 

A Call to Reach the Nations (Part 2) - October 13, 2024

In this powerful sermon, listeners are encouraged to embrace the mission of spreading the hope of the Gospel as outlined in Acts 1:7-11. The pastor invites the congregation to take up the challenge of being witnesses for Christ, not just within their comfort zones, but to the ends of the earth. Reflecting on the ascension of Jesus, the sermon draws parallels with the Church's mission to carry the message of salvation to all corners of the world.

The pastor emphasizes the importance of crossing boundaries—whether geographical, social, or personal—to reach those in need of hope and salvation. The message is clear: every believer is called to be a missionary, sharing the love and grace of God with others, regardless of their circumstances.

Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in spreading the Gospel through prayer, acts of kindness, and personal testimonies. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt prayer for courage and obedience in fulfilling the Great Commission, reminding the congregation of the eternal significance of their mission.

“A CALL TO REACH THE NATIONS” Part 2
Main Idea: All believers are called to reach the peoples of the world, beginning with those around us.
Text: Acts 1:7-11
"Go, be my witnesses."
1. Jesus’ Farewell vs. 7-8
• A command - "You will be my witnesses"
o Jerusalem – Home and local community
o All Judea – Neighboring communities, states
o Samaria – Other places where people are antagonistic
o Reaching "the ends of the earth"
2. We’re all missionaries
• Missionary = someone who crosses boundaries with the purpose of communicating the
gospel of Jesus and making disciples.
o Boundaries: local, international, cross-cultural
• Remember: Every believer has a responsibility to share the gospel
3. An Encouraging Reminder vs. 9-11
• “Why do you stand here looking into the sky?”
• Consequence of inaction: disobedience
o Inactive Christian = disobedient Christian
o Stationary church = disobedient church
• Encouragement for the task
o Matthew 28:20 - "I am with you always"
o Acts 1:8 – “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you”
Action Steps:
Over the next 30 days…
 Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
 Receive and read an email and/or text.
 Participate in at least one prayer walk.
 Send a note or email to 5 people.
 Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

A Call to Reach the Nations - October 6, 2024

Join us in today's sermon podcast as we delve into the powerful message of hope and salvation. Our speaker passionately explores the importance of fearlessly proclaiming the mystery of the gospel and how it relates to our lives today.

In the wake of recent natural disasters, we are reminded of the spirit of community and helping one another. This sermon reflects on the devastation and the hope of rescue, drawing parallels to our spiritual journey and the need to share the hope we have in Christ.

The sermon emphasizes the Great Commission from Matthew 28, urging believers to go and make disciples of all nations. It highlights the authority given to Jesus and His call to share this mission with His followers. Through personal stories and biblical insights, listeners are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and actively participate in spreading the message of hope.

As we consider our role in this global mandate, the sermon challenges us to take practical steps in prayer, outreach, and service. By praying for those who do not know Jesus, participating in prayer walks, and inviting others to church, we can make a significant impact in our communities.

Join us in embracing the Great Commission and becoming a beacon of hope in a world in need of salvation. Together, let's fulfill our purpose as the church of the living God.

Stay in touch with our Church Center App at www.mvcnaz.org/churchcenter

With Pastor Mike Curry.

THE HOPE INITIATIVE

“A CALL TO REACH THE NATIONS” Part 1

Main Idea: All believers are called to reach the peoples of the world, beginning with those around us.

Text: Matthew 28:16-20

 "Go, make disciples."

1. Jesus' Great Statement

• Great claim: All authority
• Great command: All nations
• Great promise: Always with them

2. The Great Commission components

• GO
• MAKE disciples
• BAPTIZE
• TEACH others to obey
• REMEMBER God is with us

3. The problem: Wanting privileges without responsibility
4. Every local church has a global mandate

Action Steps: 

Over the next 30 days…

• Pray each day for 5 unsaved people.
• Receive and read an email and/or text.
• Participate in at least one prayer walk.
• Send a note or email to 5 people.
• Invite at least 8 people to visit our church.

 

We Share Our Gifts with One Another - September 29, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we dive deep into the Apostle Paul's prayer from Ephesians 6:19 and explore how it can guide our lives. The urgency of our mission is clear—Jesus is coming soon, and it's crucial that we, as a church, come together to share our unique gifts for the glory of God.

In this episode, we engage with the younger members of our congregation, conducting a 'shape survey' to understand how God has uniquely equipped each of us. We categorize spiritual gifts into miraculous gifts, enabling gifts, and team gifts, explaining their significance and how they work together to build a thriving church community.

Drawing inspiration from Acts 2:42-47, we explore the early church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, and prayer, emphasizing the importance of living in community. Through practical examples and the involvement of our congregation, we demonstrate how each gift—from evangelism to administration—plays a vital role in the body of Christ.

Join us as we uncover the blueprint for a vibrant, growing church and challenge you to use your God-given gifts to bless others and advance His kingdom. Together, we can do more than we ever could alone. Let’s embrace our call to share and multiply the blessings we've received.

With Pastor Mike Curry

We Share Our Gifts with One Another

Acts 2:42–47

INTRODUCTION: All these people! All these gifts!

1. Miraculous Gifts (confirm and bear witness to the Word)

• Apostle, Tongues, Interpretation, Miracles, Healing

2. Enabling Gifts (qualities possessed rather than activities performed)

• Faith, Discernment, Wisdom, Knowledge

3. TEAM Gifts (functional job-, activity-, ministry- or task-oriented gifts)

• Evangelism, Prophecy, Teaching, Exhortation, Shepherding, Serving, Mercy-showing, Giving,

Administration.

MAIN IDEA: Everyone is a gift with gifts to share.

OUR GIFTS ARE MADE TO SHARE…

1. We are called to do life with others.

• We will live life in a community and not in isolation.

2. We are called to share what we have been given. • We will be generous with our gifts.

3. When we share our gifts, multiplication happens. • We will witness God grow our community.

ACTION POINTS:

 Faithfully and consistently gather in community and fellowship with other believers.

 Be generous with the gifts that God has given you and allow others to be generous with you.

 Be prepared to praise God for growing your community and bringing people to salvation in him.

We Grow Our Gifts Together - September 22, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. We delve into the profound impact of community in nurturing our spiritual gifts and growth. Through the transformative story of Saul's conversion in Acts 9, we explore how God uses others to help us see clearly, clear the way, and keep us on mission.

We celebrate the diverse talents within our congregation and emphasize the importance of unity and mutual support in our faith journey. Join us as we uncover the blueprint for thriving together in Christ, understanding our divine calling, and actively contributing to the body of Christ. May this message enrich your understanding of God's plan for your life and inspire you to embrace your unique gifts for His glory.

We Grow Our Gifts Together

Acts 9:1–31

MAIN IDEA: God uses others to help grow our gifts.

GOD USES OTHERS IN OUR LIVES TO GROW OUR GIFTS:

1. God uses others to help you see clearly. (v. 10–18)

• Truth: We help others discover their gifts.

1. God uses others to help clear the way. (v. 23–27)

• Truth: We use our gifts to help protect and propel the gifts in others.

1. God uses others to keep us on mission. (v. 28–31)

• Truth: We grow our gifts together to grow the Church.

 

Action Points:

• Consider and list practical ways you can use your gifts to protect and propel the gifts of others.
• Take a faith-filled risk to include someone who others may view as an inconvenience to the Church and help them see they belong.
• Take the SHAPE Assessment to begin to discover and grow the gifts God has given you. Click the link below, complete a paper copy from the welcome center and return to the office.

https://tinyurl.com/mvcnazshape

We Use our Gifts Together - September 15, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by Apostle Paul's words in Ephesians 6:19, our message delves into the theme of unity and the strength we find in working together. Are you ready for some engaging participation? Remember, we're not just an audience; we're a congregation united by faith.

In this sermon, we explore the idea that "we are better together" by looking at iconic duos from pop culture and history. More importantly, we examine the biblical partnership of Paul, Aquila, and Priscilla from Acts 18:1-8. Through their story, we learn how our gifts are more powerful when shared, used for both believers and non-believers, and how they expand God's kingdom.

Join us as we uncover practical ways to partner with others, both within and outside our church community, to make a greater impact. Let's embrace our spiritual gifts, serve together, and glorify God in all that we do. Amen!

Find Sermon Notes and the Bulletin here. www.mvcnaz.org/live

We Use Our Gifts Together

Acts 18:1–8

MAIN IDEA: We are better together.

OUR GIFTS ARE BETTER TOGETHER…

1. When we share our gifts with others. (v. 1–3)
2. When we use our gifts for believers and nonbelievers. (v. 4–6)
3. Because when we use our gifts together, the Kingdom expands. (v. 7–8)

Action Points:

• Consider and list practical ways you can work with others to make a bigger impact than you could alone.
• Partner with other Christians in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.
• Partner with God in using your gifts to reach people outside of your faith community.

 

Embracing Your God-Given Talents - September 8, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast. In this episode, we explore the significance of recognizing and utilizing the unique gifts that God has bestowed upon each one of us. Drawing inspiration from Romans 12:3-8 and Ephesians 6:19, we delve into the story of Malcolm Mitchell and his unexpected journey to becoming an avid reader, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication alongside natural talents.

Join us as we discuss how everyone is a gift with a gift, equipped by God to serve and bless others. Through examining our spiritual gifts and understanding their divine origin, we are encouraged to use them diligently for the glory of God and the benefit of the community. Whether you're a long-time believer or new to the faith, this message aims to inspire you to discover and activate your God-given abilities.

As we continue our series, "You Are Gifted for More," we invite you to evaluate your gifts, recognize their source, and commit to using them effectively. Let's embark on this journey together, seeking to fulfill God's plan for our lives and our congregation. Amen.

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With Pastor Mike Curry

Everyone Is a Gift with Gifts

Romans 12:3–8 NLT

 

MAIN IDEA: Everyone is a gift with gifts.

 

GOD HAS GIVEN DIFFERENT PEOPLE DIFFERENT GIFTS…

 

1. It is wise to evaluate your gifts. (v. 3)
2. Realize that different people have different gifts. (v. 4–5)
3. Your gifts have a unique and specific function. (v. 6–8)

 

HOW DO WE RESPOND TO BEING GIVEN GIFTS:

 

1. Evaluate what gifts you have been given. (v. 3–5)
2. Recognize where our gifts come from. (v. 6a)
3. Use your unique gifts. (v.6b–8)

 

ACTION STEPS:

• Do a thorough evaluation of the gifts that you have. Combine this reflection with the results of your SHAPE Assessment and conversations with those closest to you.
• Recognize how your gifts can be best used in your life (among your family, vocation, community, church, etc.).
• Thank God for his benevolence in giving you gifts.

 

 

Everyone is a Gift - September 1, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast! Inspired by the Apostle Paul's prayer in Ephesians 6:19, this sermon aims to bring the Word of God alive in your heart and aid your understanding of His divine plan for your life. Amen.

In today's episode, we kick off a new series titled "Gifted for More." Despite conventional advice against starting a new series on a holiday weekend, our speaker dives into this exciting journey, emphasizing that every individual is blessed with unique talents and abilities. This sermon encourages us to recognize that God has a grand plan for each of us, regardless of age or background.

Through a humorous anecdote about caricatures, the sermon explores how we often create exaggerated versions of God, which can distort our understanding of His true character. By examining Ephesians 2, the message highlights key characteristics of God—His love, mercy, grace, and kindness—and how these attributes should shape our relationships with Him, others, and ourselves.

We are reminded that we are God's masterpieces, created anew in Christ Jesus to do good works. The sermon calls us to recognize ourselves and others as gifts from God and challenges us to share our unique gifts with the world. It concludes with a reflection on the ultimate gift exchange—Christ's sacrifice—and an invitation to adjust our views of God, discover our spiritual gifts, and use them for His glory.

Join us as we embark on this transformative journey of understanding and embracing God's plan for our lives. May today's message inspire you to live out your divine purpose with confidence and joy.

Everyone Is a Gift

Ephesians 2:1–10

INTRODUCTIONS: Caricatures

 MAIN IDEA: Our view of God shapes how we see ourselves and others.

CONFIDENCE IN GOD’S CHARACTER…

1. Confidence in God’s character changes our relationship with God. (v. 4–9)
2. Confidence in God’s character changes our response to others. (v. 1–3)
3. Confidence in God’s character changes our relationship with ourselves. (v. 10)

 

THREE RESPONSES TO GOD’S CHARACTER:

 

1. We recognize ourselves as gifts from God. (v. 5b–6)
2. We realize others are gifts from God. (v. 1-3)
3. We respond to God’s goodness and share our gifts. (v.7–10)

 

ACTION STEPS:

• Adjust your view of God's character

What adjustments do you need to make to the way you see and respond to the character of God?

• Identify lies about your identity and others

As people who are made in the Image of God, when we have a warped image of the character of God, it begins to create in us a warped self-image. Can you name lies that you may believe about your identity based on a wrong view of God’s character?  What about lies that you believe about others?

• Discovering and use your unique gifts

Knowing that God has a plan and a purpose for each of our gifts, take time to discover your unique gifts and how to steward them. (Take your S.H.A.P.E. Assessment – Coming soon!)

Unyielding Faith in the Fiery Trials - August 25, 2024

Welcome to today's sermon podcast, where we delve into the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel Chapter 3. In this concluding sermon of our summer series, we explore the themes of unwavering faith and God's protection in the midst of life's fiery trials.

We begin with a light-hearted yet profound story of Chippy the parakeet, illustrating how unexpected circumstances can leave us feeling stunned and disheartened. This sets the stage for a deeper discussion on how to stand firm in our faith when faced with societal pressures and personal challenges.

Through the example of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we learn about the importance of resisting compromise, standing strong in our convictions, and trusting in God's presence and protection, even when the outcome is uncertain. Join us as we uncover the lessons from these three friends who faced the fiery furnace with courage and faith, and discover how their story can inspire us to remain steadfast in our own trials.

With Pastor Mike Curry

 “Unyielding Faith in the Fiery Trials”

Daniel 3

Introduction: Chippee the Parakeet

1. The King’s Command (verses 1-7)

1. Universal Command: (vs. 4-5).

• Exodus 20:4-6

1. Universal Consequences: Do it or be thrown into a fiery furnace (v. 6)
2. Universal Compliance: All fell down (v.7)

• Romans 1:20-25

1. Defiance of the King’s Decree (verses 8-18)
2. The tale of the tattletales (vs. 8-12).
3. The King’s furious assertion (vs. 13-15)
   • “…what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?”
4. Courageous defiance (vs. 16-18).

• Matthew 10:22, James 1:12

III. Trial by Fire (verses 19-23)

1. Seven-times hotter = the fullness of the trial (v19)
2. Subdued by strongest soldiers (v. 20-22)
3. Falling into the fire (v. 23).

• James 1:2-4, Isaiah 43:1-3a

1. Divine Deliverance (verses 24-30)
2. A fourth in the fire! (v. 24-25)
3. Salvation realized (v. 26-27)
4. Praise be to the Most High God (v. 28-30)
   • “…no other god can save in this way.” (v. 29)

Action Points

• Resist Compromise
• Make a stand with unwavering faith
• Trust God’s Protection