Message Series Guides
* The Series Summaries are PDF documents containing the titles, order the messages were given, scripture references and keywords, they are not an entrance to the archive but intended as a reference tool.
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iFocus Apps to Win in 2010 | IN PROGRESS
Many people are using iPhones and other smartphones to perform a variety of tasks. Many applications (Apps) can be downloaded to make the phone even more versatile. In this series Pastor David Dykes talks about the importance of FOCUSING on several important Biblical truths and APPLYING these truths to your life. This is life-changing data that can have a positive impact in your life if you download them into your heart.
Parables & Miracles | IN PROGRESS
This study of the parables and miracles contained in the book of Matthew, examines the personal impact of the words and works of Jesus. Pastor David often says "There is a parable in every miracle and a miracle in every parable." That means that hidden below the surface of every miracle there is a life-changing truth to be discovered. And every parable of Jesus contains miraculous truth that can change your life. This series will continue through 2010 and will have approximately 88 messages.
2 Corinthians: Hope for Cracked Pots | 45
The overall message contained in 2 Corinthians is "Hope for Cracked Pots." The Bible says, "For we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." (2 Corinthians 4:7) The secret of the Christian life is realizing that we contain the life of the Lord Jesus Christ released through the Holy Spirit. Even though the container may be a little misshapen, or even cracked, the value is the treasure we contain, not in the container itself. In other words, "It's not about ME!" "It's all about HIM!" So, even if you consider yourself to be a little cracked, take hope because you can still carry the greatest treasure the world has ever known!
A Church on Purpose | 4
Every successful organization and business has a purpose for which they exist. If someone asked you, “Why does Green Acres Baptist Church exist?” I hope you could answer correctly. Our church has formally adopted a purpose statement. There are hundreds of things a church could do that are good things, but a clearly defined purpose statement keeps us focused on the best things we can do. We exist to exalt God’s greatness; evangelize God’s world; equip God’s people and express God’s love—through Jesus Christ our Lord. The Pastor’s challenge to be on purpose in three different directions: across the aisle; across the street; and across the globe.
A Matter of Life or Debt | 3
One of the biggest problems facing Christians in the 21st century is dealing with unmanageable debt. The average unpaid credit card balance for Americans is over $18,000 per family. A Christian enslaved to debt is unable to give to God the way he or she desires, and he or she isn’t free to obey God’s call on their lives because their debt keeps them prisoner. In this series, Dr. Dykes combines both biblical principles and sound financial advice to teach individuals and families how to GET out of debt and STAY out of debt.
Aliens | 26
The Bible identifies followers of Jesus Christ as "Aliens and Strangers in this world." Because of our faith, we are "different" than the native earthlings (unbelievers). We bless others when they curse us; we forgive others when they hurt us; we go the second mile. In today's dog-eat-dog world, that's ALIEN behavior! Learn simple, practical ways on how God directs us to conduct our lives while we're on this planet. (From 1 Peter)
Angels All Around Us | 4
While there is a great deal of interest in the world about angels, there is also a great deal of ignorance. You will be surprised to learn what the Bible does and does not say about angels. Angels are God’s ministering spirits, sent to serve the saints of God.
Are You Plugged in to... | 3
A series about the importance of being plugged in to the best God has for you. (From the book of Ezra)
Back to the B.A.S.I.C.S. | 3
Any good coach will tell you that before an athlete or team can be successful, the fundamental skills of a particular sport must be mastered. The team that best executes these simple skills usually wins. What are the BASIC ESSENTIALS of the Christian Life? Before you will ever be effective for Christ, you must identify and practice these basic fundamental truths.
Battle Stations! a study in Spiritual Warfare | 4
Part of the Ephesians series. On a battleship, every sailor has a battle station. When the cry, “Battle Stations!” is issued, they immediately know where to go and what to do. In the Christian life, we are involved in spiritual warfare, but too many Christians are ignorant of their role and location. This series from Ephesians 6 will help equip you for battle in the spiritual realm.
Big Events of the Old Testament | 41
Includes the miniseries David The Old Testament is one of the most exciting books in all literature, and it is true. God’s work in and through the nation of Israel is an important background study for Christians to understand. Take a chronological journey through all the big events of Old Testament history. This series will help you get a grasp of why and when things happened as God dealt with the nation Israel.
Daniel: Turning Chaos Into Character | 14
How is a committed Christian to behave when he finds himself in a strange, godless culture? Many people are facing that decision every day as they find themselves in schools, jobs and families where their God is not acknowledged. Daniel stands as a powerful model to teach us how to stay committed. Although he was exiled from his home as a teenager and forced to live his entire life in a strange culture, he turned this chaos into character—and you can too.
David: A Man After God's Own Heart | 5
Part of the Big Events of the Old Testament series. King David was one of the most enigmatic characters in history. Although he was “the sweet singer of Israel,” he also committed terrible sins. Learn how to discover and avoid the pitfalls each of us faces, so we can be a people after God’s own heart.
Ephesians: Enjoying Our Riches in Christ | 39
Includes two miniseries: Home Improvement Jesus Style (5) and Battle Stations! A Study in Spiritual Warfare (4)
When you accepted Christ, you won the “spiritual lottery.” This series explains the riches of Christ that belong to each of us who know Him. These are not riches that can be deposited in the bank—they are riches that enable us to make the most of our daily living.
Family: An Endangered Species? | 4
Whatever happened to the traditional American family? In the 21st century, the definition of families in America has gone through a tremendous revision. One might think that a biblical family has become an endangered species. Learn how to apply positive, biblical principles for building a strong biblical family in changing times.
Get Connected! | 4
You cannot communicate with God or access His vast spiritual wisdom unless you are connected. Learn how to be connected and make a spiritual application for it.
Go for the Gold! How to Be a Champion for God | 5
When you think of Biblical champions, stories like David and Goliath, Samson and the Philistines, or Daniel in the lion’s den probably come to mind. But the pages of the Bible are filled with everyday champions whose names are relatively unknown, but whose impact is undeniable. In the process of meeting these unsung Biblical heroes, we’re going to discover there are many potential champions for God all around us as well.
God's Medicine for Hurting Families | 4
There is no such thing as a PERFECT family or a PERFECT marriage; however, it is possible to have a HEALTHY family and a HEALTHY marriage. Get God’s prescription to address any unhealthy relational problems you face in your family.
Grace Robbers | 4
Part of the Colossians series. The grace of God is truly amazing! It's also amazing that many Christians are still trying to obey rules and regulations to earn God's favor. Legalism is a deadly virus infecting the Body of Christ. Be able to identify beliefs and actions that DISGRACE the Grace of God. Do not let anyone or anyone ROB you of the powerful impact of the amazing grace of God!
The Gospel According to Country Music | 4
“Can the message of country music get you into heaven?” A study of the gospel roots of country music and how it has become a multi-billion dollar industry. The Pastsor presents biblical truth beside the message of familiar country songs and examines for compatibility.
The Gospel According to GSPN: It's More than a Game | 4
(God’s Spiritual Playmaker Network). On a sports team, there can only be a few real playmakers who impact the outcome of the game. On God’s team, every member can be a playmaker and can have an eternal impact on the lives of others! Are you a playmaker, or a spectator? God wants you to step onto the field (or up to a tee box) and join Him in what He is doing! GSPN, it’s more than a game!
The Gospel According to TV | 5
Whatever your age, we are a generation of screenagers. Today, with hundreds of television channels available, there are literally thousands of programs to watch. Many of them are not worth watching, but some are entertaining, others educational, and many inspirational. The Gospel According to TV series uses popular television shows or themes as a launching pad to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
Is There Any HOPE for Me? | 5
Does life seem hopeless? You can't turn on the television or pick up a newspaper without learning about another murder, disaster or war. Much of our stress is caused by simply trying to handle all the pain around us. In a crazy world, many cry out, "IS THERE ANY HOPE FOR ME?"
It's Time to Get Good and M.A.D. (make a Difference) | 5
When most people get mad they lose their temper and do something bad. I’m going to challenge you to get GOOD and mad. It’s okay to be GOOD and mad. The Bible says in Ephesians 4:26, “Be angry, but do not sin.” That means there are times we should express a righteous indignation toward an injustice that spurs us to do something good. Jesus Christ teaches that each of us should make a difference in the lives of others.
Joshua: Making the Leap from Good to GREAT! | 6
The book of Joshua is one of the most exciting books in all of the Bible. It reads like an action novel. But it is much more than an historical record of Israel’s military conquest of Canaan. It is a powerful picture of how every follower of Jesus can experience victory. Thousands of Christians are content to be merely “good” (they have their ticket to heaven punched) but they seldom enter into the joy of spiritual greatness.
Life Overflowing! A Study of Colossians | 25
The renowned Psychiatrist Dr. Carl Jung wrote: "The central neurosis of our time is emptiness." In a world filled with empty people, the message of Colossians has never been more needed than now. The theme of this wonderful book is "LIFE OVERFLOWING." If you are feeling broken and empty, Jesus Christ can fix the fundamental problem of your life. Find out how Jesus can keep the gauge on your life tank pointing on full!
Living in Fast Forward | 13
When you’re watching a tape or DVD, you can press the fast forward button on your remote and scan ahead to see what happens later. By reading this wonderful book, we can also look ahead to preview the final outcome of this world. When we look forward in faith, we can have confidence and hope to endure whatever trials we face today. (From 2 Peter)
Luke: Jesus, The Perfect God-Man | 106
Includes two miniseries: The Prodigal Son (3) and The Passion & Triumph of Jesus Christ (9)
In the gospel according to Luke, Dr. Luke examines the life of Jesus from the standpoint of his humanity. There are more teaching parables and special passages in Luke than the other two synoptic gospels. A verse-by-verse examination of the life and teachings of the greatest man who ever lived—the Lord Jesus Christ.
NO! That's Not in the Bible | 10
There are many “popular sayings” that people think are in the Bible. For instance we’ve all heard someone say, “The Bible says, ‘God helps those who help themselves.’” You may be surprised to discover that these sayings DON’T come from the Bible—and in some cases they contradict what the Bible says about that topic! An examination of several “phantom Bible verses” and what the Bible really says to us.
The Passion & Triumph of Jesus Christ | 9
Part of the Luke: Jesus, the Perfect God-Man series. Why were so many people touched by the story of The Passion of Jesus Christ? How did God turn movie theaters into sanctuaries of worship? Why does a story thousands of years old still move people? Because it is the TRUTH. This detailed study takes an in-depth look at the scriptures surrounding the life of Jesus from the Last Supper through His suffering and torture, onto the cross and out of the grave. Explore the Bible and uncover the truth of the Passion of Jesus Christ that has shaken modern society.
The Prodigal Son | 3
Part of the Luke: Jesus, the Perfect God-Man series. There are many “popular sayings” that people think are in the Bible. For instance we’ve all heard someone say, “The Bible says, ‘God helps those who help themselves.’” You may be surprised to discover that these sayings DON’T come from the Bible—and in some cases they contradict what the Bible says about that topic! An examination of several “phantom Bible verses” and what the Bible really says to us.
REFRESH! What to Do When Life Crashes | 8
Do you need spiritual and personal refreshing? Computers aren’t the only things that crash—cars crash, planes crash...and even lives crash. The truth is: Life is tough for all of us. We’ve all hurt other people and we’ve all been hurt by others. Learn how you can experience personal and spiritual refreshment. This series traces the beatitudes of Jesus and shares seven important steps to experience blessing and happiness—by tapping into God’s power to restore and refresh lives that have crashed and been broken. (From the book of Matthew)
Revelation: Unveiling the Truth | 29
Simple, easy-to-understand messages from the wonderful book of Revelation. These messages will reveal Jesus Christ to you in a way; perhaps, you have never seen Him before. You will be encouraged to know that God accomplishes the final victory of our human destiny.
Romans | 62
Includes the miniseries Romans 8: The Mt. Everest of Biblical Truth (8)
When the apostle Paul set out to write a personal letter to the church at Rome, he included some of the deepest theological insights in the entire Bible. This book is the magnum opus of Christian doctrine.
Romans 8: The Mt. Everest of Biblical Truth |
8
Part of the Romans series. Most theologians agree the book of Romans is the magnum opus of New Testament Christianity. Romans rises above the plain of biblical truth like a magnificent mountain range. Rising in the midst of the range is the majestic Mt. Everest of biblical truth—Romans 8. Climb to the pinnacle of truth in one of the greatest chapters in all the Bible.
Share the Joy | 5
“Share the Joy” is a series of messages based on the wonderful Old Testament Book of Joshua. As Joshua prepared a new generation to move into the Promised Land, Pastor David O. Dykes challenges Christians to “cross over” into the promises that God has for each of us. (Given in conjunction with the completion of the Worship Center building project).
Spiritual Gifts | 9
One of the greatest frustrations Christians face is when they try to do a job for which they are not gifted. In this New Testament study of spiritual gifts, all the gifts mentioned in the New Testament and are examined and explained how they operate in the church today. If you are looking to discover what your spiritual gifts are, this series will be an invaluable help to you.
Surrender 2 Win | 5
Personal spiritual victory occurs when you surrender to God. It sounds like a contradiction to say you must surrender to win, but the Bible contains several paradoxical truths such as "the first will be last and the last will be first" and "if you want to receive, you must first give" and "if you want to save your life, you will lose it, but if you lose your life for the sake of Jesus, you will find your life." Don’t be surprised to learn the way to win is by surrendering. (from Proverbs)
Turning Tears into Telescopes: A Study of Job | 13
The Book of Job is more than a story about a poor man who suffered greatly. It is a victorious account of a man who lost everything—except his unshakable faith in God. We learn from Job that we have a choice in how we react to pain and suffering. Our tears can either obscure our vision of God, or they can become telescopes to magnify God's greatness and goodness. Practical insights about how to endure the tough times of life without losing your sanity—or your faith.
Words That Shook the World: Final Words from the Cross | 5
Throughout history, when famous people were dying, scribes stood by to record the last words they spoke. There is an air of finality and authority about the last words a person ever speaks before death. We can’t call Jesus’ words form the cross His final words, because unlike any other person, Jesus rose from the dead and spoke many more words—and He still speaks TODAY! (An Easter series)