Zoe' Ministries Blog

Announcements

2012-03-09T03:00:00.001-05:00

Daylight Savings - Next Sunday, 3/11/12, marks the beginning of Daylight Savings Time. Be sure to set your clock one hour AHEAD on Saturday night.

Calling All Volunteers

2012-03-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

If you would like to help with SOME PROJECTS around the church, here are a few that need attention:

1) Many of the fluorescent bulbs in both buildings need changing.

2) The leak in the ladies' room is mostly fixed now, but there is still some work the sink area needs.

3) The sanctuary needs to be connected to the WiFi network.

Let Pastor Steve know if you can help.

Quotable Quotes

2012-03-07T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Faith in God puts no pressure on people." - Keith Moore

This Week at Zoe

2012-03-06T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, 3/7/12, Pastor Steve will continue teaching on the book of Joshua.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - Doing, Discovering,Serving

2012-03-05T03:00:00.004-05:00

Text: Matthew 25:1-13, 25:14-30

Am I Doing my own thing, Discovering what God wants me to do, or Serving in the role He has given me?

Note: When looking at Matthew 24 and 25, not everything in these chapters is for us. Some of it applies to those in the Tribulation period.

Preparation

1) The Ten Virgins

A) All believed in the Bridegroom's return.

B) All were waiting for it.

C) Only some were ready.

2) What made them ready? Notice this was a short timeframe.

Faithfulness

1) The Man who called his servants.

A) He gave each of his servants a certain amount of money. Those who saw an increase were praised for their faithfulness and given more.

B) The unfaithful servant was judged on what he knew, right or wrong, and what he did with what he had.

It is imperative we have a right understand of God. Having a wrong understanding will impact what we do.

Recognition - Matt. 25:31-46

1) The Son of man returns

A) What they did with the good they had

B) What they did with what time they had

C) What they did with what opportunities they had

This passage talks about the Tribulation. People cannot buy and sell without the mark of the beast. So, giving away clothing or other necessities presents a hardship. Visiting people in jail (Christians) requires faith because they could be arrested without the mark.

What God Expects of Me

1) Prepare for what is coming.

2) Be Faithful with what has been entrusted to you.

3) Recognize the opportunities around you.

To hear the entire message, go to our website, and click on the Sermon Player. The website link for the blog is still missing, but you can access it here. You can also download the message to your MP3 player or podcast Free.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Calling All Volunteers

2012-03-01T03:00:00.001-05:00

Interested in serving at Zoe? If so, these areas can use some help:

1) Nursery

2) Building Maintenance Team

3) Outreach Team

If you can help, please contact Pastor Steve or Connie. Thank you!

Quotable Quotes

2012-02-29T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Pride makes excuses; humility makes adjustments." - Joel Simms

This Week at Zoe

2012-02-28T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, February 29, 2012, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 12.

The ladies will be going to Longwood Gardens on Saturday, March 3rd. If you haven't paid for your discounted ticket, please see Connie ASAP. While there aren't any discounted tickets remaining, you can still go but will have to pay the regular price.

We're planning to meet at Connie's house at 11:30 A.M. For more information, see Phyllis or Connie.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - God's Measuring Stick

2012-02-27T03:00:00.003-05:00

Text: Luke 16:10-13, Exodus 24:1-14, Daniel 5:24-28

We're looking at Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and Hur to see how God measures a man. If God measures us by a certain measuring stick, we'd better find out what He's using. It doesn't matter if you agree or not with His standard.

When Moses was sent to Egypt, Aaron was his assistant. Yet later on, we see Joshua and Hur filling that role.

God calls Moses up into the mountain. Moses brings Joshua and some others with him part way. They're up there for awhile, and the Children of Israel get restless. They were resistant to God, and they yielded easily to pressure. Aaron was given the job of dealing with any problems while Moses and the others were away.

The people demanded that Aaron make them a god. Instead of standing firm and restraining them from their plans, Aaron instructs them to bring gold, prepares it, and fashions a golden calf.

Hur was also left to deal with the people, yet he's not mentioned. Jewish historians believe the people killed him during the revolt because he refused to agree to their plans and tried to stop them. Obviously, this could have caused fear in Aaron.

When confronted, Aaron blames the people and gives excuses. Moses holds him accountable for the situation. Thereafter, we see Joshua soaring ahead as Moses' assistant.

Hur is the husband of Miriam according to Josephus. Another source said he was her son, but I believe Josephus is more reliable. Hereafter, we only hear of Hur's sons.

Joshua was Commander in Chief of the army and does a good job. As Moses' assistant, he does whatever he's told to do. While he's waiting for Moses, he hears what he believes is warfare down below. You can imagine his agitation that he can't be there defending the people. He doesn't move from his spot though because Moses said to wait.

Application: Be faithful in your assignments whether you like them or not. Don't complain or speak evil of those you're serving. A person who is faithful is respectful. They don't usurp authority but wait until it is given to them.

1) Treat everything that is given to you as great. If you have a car or house, don't gripe about what's wrong with them. Appreciate all God's gifts.

2) Don't take what hasn't been given. Absalom seized the throne, but he could not hold it. He took what didn't belong to him, and it cost him his life.

3) Learn to follow instructions and wait.

Not everyone makes it onto great things, but that doesn't mean that everyone isn't intended for them. Make yourselves a vessel of honor, and promotion will come from God.

God measures us by our faithfulness.

At the moment, our website is undergoing changes. At this time, you can access the messages at http://zcf.sermon.net. Note there are two channels. The main channel contains all the Wednesday night teachings, while the other contains the Sunday messages. The podcast should not be interrupted at all, and the Facebook links are in working order.

If you're visiting the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Announcements

2012-02-24T03:00:00.002-05:00

Volunteers Needed

Interested in serving at Zoe? We could use some help in the following areas:

1) Nursery

2) Building Maintenance Team

3) Outreach Team

Please see Pastor Steve or Connie if you can assist in one of these areas.

Kenya Project

Donations for the Church in Kenya for their building project came to $1,359.00, and we sent a check for $1,500. Between our church and another organization, they have plenty of funds to finish their building.

Thank you for your gifts to this project. As pictures come in, we will share them with you.

Longwood Gardens Trip
The ladies will be going to Longwood Gardens on Saturday, March 3rd. All the discounted tickets have been sold, but you can still go. The ticket price is $18.00. If you're interested, please see Connie or Phyllis.

The Church Webpage

2012-02-23T03:00:00.004-05:00

The Church Webpage at http://www.zoe-ministries.org is undergoing some revisions. Right now, most of the features are missing (Sermon Player,Church Blog, etc.). As soon as we find out the timetable to get all these features back, we'll let you know via text messages and/or Facebook posts.

Meanwhile, you can access past sermons by going to http://zcf.sermon.net. There are two channels: one for Wednesday night services, and the other for Sunday services.

The podcasts should not be interrupted at all. The Facebook links work fine.

Quotable Quotes

2012-02-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

"The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety." - George Mueller

This Week at Zoe

2012-02-21T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, February 22, 2012, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 11.

The Ladies' Breakfast will be held on Saturday, February 25, 2012, at 10:00 A.M., in the Children's Church Auditorium. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible. Don't forget to invite your friends!

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - Pressure Comes In Many Ways

2012-02-20T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: Exodus 3:1-4:20, 2 Samuel 11, Matt. 26:69-75

Sometimes we feel pressured to go in a certain direction. Athletes learn to resist pressure. Discern where pressure is coming from: circumstances, the enemy, or the direction of God. We need to resist the pressure originating from circumstances and the enemy, but yield to God's direction.

Moses felt pressure when God told him to go back to Egypt and deliver the Children of Israel. He gave God all kinds of reasons why he could not go. His problem was not obedience. When God told him to pick up a snake by the tail, he did it. When God told him to put is leprous hand (a disease transmitted by touch) into his bosom, he obeyed. His problem was going back to Egypt, the place where he had failed. The kind of pressure Moses faced comes from feelings of inadequacy and/or past failure.

Pressure exposes both weaknesses and strengths. Believe God for the smaller things that cause pressure, so you get accustomed to it. Then when big pressures arise, you'll be able to face the challenge.

To hear this message in its entirety, go to our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Worship Service at 10:00 A.M. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Announcements

2012-02-16T03:00:00.001-05:00

Visit the Church Webpage, and check out the church blog and sermon player. Do you have some pictures of church events? Let us know, and we can add them to a photo page.

Quotable Quotes

2012-02-15T03:00:00.001-05:00

"We must meet the uncertainties of this world with the certainty of the world to come." - A. W. Tozer

This Week at Zoe

2012-02-14T03:00:00.002-05:00

Due to last week's snow event, our Wednesday evening service was cancelled. On Wednesday, 2/15/12, at 6:30 P.M., the leadership will meet for prayer at 6:30 P.M.

At 7:30 P.M., we'll have ALL CHURCH PRAYER. If you're unable to attend and have a prayer request, please contact Pastor Steve via email or Facebook.

The Men's Ministry will have their monthly breakfast on Saturday, 2/18/2012, at 8:00 A.M. They'll meet in the Children's Church Auditorium. Bro. Keith will be sharing from the Word of God.

Please bring your Bible and a breakfast item (if you can).

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - What Suffering Can Produce

2012-02-13T03:00:00.003-05:00

Text: I Samuel 13 & 17

Bad suffering situations are those we cause ourselves. Good suffering is for the Word's sake.

In this passage, Saul is waiting for Samuel to arrive and sacrifice to God. When Samuel is late, he grows impatient. Impatience produces pressure to act. The hasty decision in most cases, including this one, is the wrong thing.

When Samuel confronts Saul, he makes excuses.

1) He blames those under him (the people).

2) He blames those over him (Samuel).

3) He blames those against him (the Philistines).

Instead of accepting responsibility and repenting, Saul points at everyone else. Like him, if we are continually in pressure situations and blaming everyone around us, we're developing a hard heart.

On the other hand, David faced a pressure situation in a different way. He hears Goliath defy the armies of the Lord. Unlike Saul, faith rises in his heart and he doesn't change course. The other soldiers heard the same words, had the same opportunity to face the giant, but it produced fear in them instead of faith.

APPLICATION: The goal is that no matter if pressure comes upon us or we walk into it, we don't change. We must learn this where we are now in life before we can get to where we are going.

It doesn't matter how we got into the situation, whether it's through something we did, something another person did, or persecution for the Word's sake. What matters is how we respond: in fear or in faith.

To hear the entire message, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen online or download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Worship Service, at 10 A.M. We'd love to meet you!

Kenya Project

2012-02-09T03:00:00.002-05:00

We're collecting donations to assist a church in Kenya with their building project. If you wish to participate in this project, please mark "Kenya," on your offering envelope and the amount you'd like to give.

Our goal is $3,000. So far, we have $1,264 - almost halfway there!

Quotable Quotes

2012-02-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Great faith is the product of great fights." - Smith Wigglesworth

This Week at Zoe

2012-02-07T03:00:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, 2/8/2012, at 6:30 P.M., the leadership will meet for prayer. At 7:30 P.M., we'll have ALL Church Prayer.

If you have a prayer request, please contact Pastor Steve by phone, email, or Facebook message.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - The Key to Stability

2012-02-06T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: Various.

Review

1) The difference between stubborn and stable: who's right in God's eyes and who is wrong.

2) If you hear words of correction as condemnation, you probably have a hard heart.

3) When we hear the Word, we'll either mix it with faith or unbelief. How do we know which one we're blending with the Word? Those who act on the Word are those who are mixing it with faith.

Suffering

Can you say you've suffered? If just the suffering was all that was needed, would you be at the head of the class? What is lacking then? Obedience.

Hebrews 5:8 talks about learning through suffering. I Peter 3:13-17 talks about you're blessed if you take ill treatment for doing good. God does not bring the suffering upon us, but will use it if we take it patiently and trust Him.

What types of suffering are beneficial?

1) In your testimony. I Peter 4:12-19

2) In your faith. I Timothy 4:1-11

3) In your obedience. Hebrews 5:5-14

To hear this message in its entirety, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Worship Service, at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686.

Annoucements

2012-02-02T03:00:00.002-05:00

LADIES, watch for upcoming announcements and information on a local trip to Longwood Gardens. Miss Connie is getting a limited number of discount tickets for this attraction, which will be provided on a first come, first serve basis.

It will be scheduled for some time in March 2012.

Quotable Quote

2012-02-01T03:00:00.001-05:00

"You must be willing to go where you have never been to create something you have never had." - Mike Murdock

This Week at Zoe

2012-01-31T03:00:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday, February 1st, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 10.

On Friday, February 3rd, the men will take their annual trip to the PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW. Tickets are $12.00 each unless we find some deals or coupons. Afterwards, we'll have dinner together at our usual stopping grounds...Famous Dave's.

Let Pastor Steve or Keith know immediately if you are planning to attend.

On Sunday, February 5, 2012, we'll have our bi-monthly COVERED DISH DINNER and church meeting after the morning service.

Please bring a main dish and a side, salad, or dessert dish (depending on the size of your family). We will be finished by 2:30 P.M.

Sunday, February 5, 2012, is Communion Sunday.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - The Way Back

2012-01-30T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: Romans 2:1-11, Hebrews 3

Review:

Once we start getting off track and become stubborn or stuck in our own way, how do we get back to being steady?

What is Present

1) Unbelief is mixed with what is heard instead of faith.

2) Three reasons we maintain a hard heart:

a) I BELIEVE I'm RIGHT

b) I WANT SOMETHING

c) I RESIST A DIRECTION

3) The Upward Progression

a) Is it RIGHT?

b) Is it God's WILL?

c) Is it God's DESIRE?

4) The downward progression

a) Is it RIGHT?

b) Is it PERMITTED?

c) Is it LEGAL?

d) Is it WHAT I WANT?

Do you have a stubborn or steady heart? Those who have a stubborn heart are unrepentant. They are self-seeking, do not obey the truth. They follow unrighteousness, indignation, and wrath.

Those with a steady heart obey God are patient, continuing in doing good. They seek for glory, honor, and immortality. If you wonder what seeds you have sown, just check out your harvest.

To hear the entire message, go to our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen online, download it to your MP3 player, or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Worship Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Upcoming Event

2012-01-26T03:00:00.003-05:00

Men, our annual trip to the upcoming PHILADELPHIA AUTO SHOW will be on Friday, February 3rd.

We will aim to leave about 4:00 PM or you can meet us there. Tickets are $12.00 each, unless we find some deals or coupons. Afterwards, we will have dinner together at our usual stopping grounds...Famous Dave's.

Let Pastor Steve or Keith know if you're planning to go (or thinking about it) ASAP.

Quotable Quotes

2012-01-25T03:00:00.000-05:00

"Faith will deteriorate where there is continual sin without repentance." - Billy Joe Daugherty

This Week at Zoe

2012-01-24T03:00:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday, 1/25/12, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 10.

Worship Team Auditions will be held on Thursday, 1/26/12, at 7:00 P.M. If you play an instrument or sing, let Phyllis or Miss Connie know you're planning to audition.

The Ladies' Brunch will be held on Saturday, 1/28/12, at 10:00 A.M., in the Children's Church Auditorium. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady of Stubborn - Things Permitted

2012-01-23T03:00:00.003-05:00

Text: Matthew 19:1-6 & Ephesians 4:17-32

Three reasons we maintain a Hard Heart:

1) I BELIEVE I'm RIGHT.

2) I WANT SOMETHING.

3) I RESIST a DIRECTION.

In Matthew 19:1-6, the Pharisees tried to trap Jesus with their questions. They wanted to know if it was lawful for a man to put away (divorce) his wife for any reason. One course of action stresses the Law, while another course of action stresses people.

When we get to the place asking, "is it lawful," we know we've already missed it. They were elevating principles over people. On the other hand, to choose people over principles is also wrong. Both leave God and love out of the picture.

The Upward Progression

1) Is it right?

2) Is it God's will?

3) Is it God's desire?

The Downward Progression

1. Is it right?

2. Is it permitted?

3. Is it legal?

4. Is it what I want?

Looking for loopholes or reasons why not doing what God states, wants, or desires is an indicator of a hard heart. Note: You can be tenderhearted in one area and have a hard heart in another. When you have a hard heart, you are giving the devil an opening in your life.

Bitter, evil words are a sign of a hard heart. Kind, forgiving words are a sign of a tender heart.

To hear the entire message, check out our website, and click on the Sermon Player link. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to join us for our Sunday Morning Worship Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is 215-343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Announcements

2012-01-19T03:00:00.001-05:00

The Ladies' Brunch will be held in the Children's Church Auditorium on 1/28/12, at 10:00 A.M. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

Quotable Quote

2012-01-18T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Faith does not wait for the walls to fall down; faith shouts them down!" - F. F. Bosworth

This Week at Zoe

2012-01-17T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, 1/18/12, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 9 - The Gibeonites.

On Saturday, 1/21/12, at 8:00 A.M., the Men's Breakfast will be held in the Children's Church Auditorium. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady of Stubborn - Make It Stop!

2012-01-16T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: Mark 10:17-20

This story is about a young man, who asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus quotes some of the Ten Commandments. It's interesting that He only names the ones about our relationship with other people.

The man assures Him he's observed all these from his youth. Jesus looked at him with affection, and addressed the heart of the matter. He told the man he was lacking one thing and instructed him to sell all he had and give to the poor. He then told the man to take up the cross and follow Him.

The young man was sad and went away grieved because he had great possessions. Jesus wasn't saying having riches was wrong, but rather that riches kept this person from trusting God.

Jesus turned to the disciples and said, "How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" They were astonished by his words. After all, they weren't poor men. They had businesses and boats. One was a tax collector. Jesus sees He needs to clarify this saying for them. This time he says, "Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the Kingdom of God!" The issue was trust.

If Jesus showed up and said this to you, how would you respond? Are there some areas of resistance in you?

Three reasons we maintain a Hard Heart:

1) I believe I'm right.

2) I want something.

3) I resist a direction.

If you'd like to hear the entire message, go to our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Annoucements

2012-01-12T03:00:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, January 21, 2012, the men will meet for breakfast and Bible study at 8:00 A.M.

Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

The Ladies' Brunch will be held in the Children's Church Auditorium on Saturday, January 28, 2012, at 10:00 A.M.

Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

Quotable Quote

2012-01-11T03:00:00.001-05:00

"One way you can tell rebellion: rebellion won't answer a question straight up." - Keith Moore

This Week at Zoe

2012-01-10T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, 1/11/12, at 6:30 P.M., the leadership will meet for prayer.

At 7:30 P.M., we will have All-Church Prayer. Come out, and pray for the needs in the church, community, and country.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - Resistance is Futile

2012-01-09T03:00:00.001-05:00

Text: Hebrews 3:1-13

Am I steady in my beliefs and practices, or stubborn and unmovable in things of God?

This scripture exhorts us not to harden our hearts. We are the house of Christ if we:

1) Hold fast the confidence (of hope)
2) and the rejoicing of hope firm to the end.

Verse 7 "...as the Holy Spirit says, 'Today, if you will hear His voice..." We can hear His voice, but do we obey or harden our hearts in rebellion?

In Verse 12, we are warned not to have an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. When we do not heed God's voice, our hearts become hard. The next time He speaks, it's more difficult to hear Him.

There are some things we can do to keep our hearts soft. We're to exhort one another. If a coach sees a player holding the bat wrong, he points out the problem. When we hear His voice and are quick to obey, we're remaining open and pliable to the Lord.

Hearing God's voice will always require the addition of faith. If faith is not added, unbelief will take its place. We can see which one we added by the results. When we resist the leading of the Holy Spirit, it is futile because we're rebelling against something beneficial or His guidance away from harm.

This is a small sampling of the message. To hear the rest, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd., Route 611, Warrington, PA. The church phone is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Mark Your Calendars

2012-01-05T03:00:00.001-05:00

1) On Saturday, January 21, 2012, the men will gather for breakfast in the Children's Church Auditorium at 8:00 A.M. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

2) On Saturday, January 28, 2012, the women will enjoy Brunch at 10:00 A.M. Please let Candy know what you're planning to bring. Come out for fellowship and a time of Bible Study.

Quotable Quote

2012-01-04T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Waiting is where the battle is won in the spiritual realm. Waiting and keeping our eyes on God..." - Joyce Meyer

This Week at Zoe

2012-01-03T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, 1/4/12, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on Joshua 7 and the failed attack on Ai. Come out and see how they ultimately got the victory.

Sunday Morning Series - Steady or Stubborn - Which One Am I?

2012-01-02T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: Mark 3:1-6

Am I steady in my beliefs (open to new revelation but resistant to deception) or stubborn and unmovable (keep truth out) in the things of God? The opposition:

1) The enemy wants to...

a) deceive me

b) pervert the Word in me

c) steal the Word from me

d) kill the life of God in me.

2) Overall, he wants to neutralize me - make me ineffective.

In Mark 3:1-6, the religious leaders expected Jesus to heal the man. They had become so calloused that they preferred their doctrine over helping people.

Which is more important - doctrine or people? If you say, "doctrine," you'll act like the Pharisees. If you say, "people," you'll be moved off your principles. They answer is, "neither." Jesus had a balance of doctrine and serving people. How ironic that the Pharisees plotted how to murder someone on the Sabbath, who wanted to heal.

To get the full message, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service, at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Announcements

2011-12-22T03:00:00.001-05:00

KENYA PROJECT - We're helping a church in Kenya with their building project. Our goal is to raise $3,000. So far, we've collected $813.

If you wish to participate, please write Kenya on your offering envelope and the amount you're enclosing.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE PRAYER - for a specific need during the Sunday Morning Service, please mention it to one of the ushers or use a prayer request card located on the back table. We are happy to pray for you during the service or privately afterward, whichever you prefer.

Quotable Quote

2011-12-21T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Jesus is not to us as Christmas is to the world, here today and gone tomorrow." - Rick Mylander

This Week at Zoe

2011-12-20T03:00:00.002-05:00

ON WEDNESDAY, 12/21/11, AT 7:00 P.M., we'll meet at Neshaminy Manor, to sing carols for the residents. We'll be finished by about 7:45 P.M. because they go to sleep early.

Afterward, we'll head back to the church for hot chocolate and cookies. We'll provide the hot chocolate, but we'd appreciate folks bringing some cookies to share.

ON SATURDAY, 12/24/11, AT 6:00 P.M. (CHRISTMAS EVE), we'll have a Candlelight Service.

ON SUNDAY, 12/25/11, AT 10:00 A.M. (CHRISTMAS DAY), we'll have a service.

Sunday Morning Message - What Is It For?

2011-12-19T03:00:00.001-05:00

Text: Matthew 7:7-11

This scripture tells us that everyone who asks receives, and everyone gets what they asked for. This is important to know because many believe that:

1) bad things come from God

2) God decided I didn't need a fish, so he gave me a serpent instead.

3) God is not good.

This passage is followed by Jesus warning about false prophets. There are those who come as sheep among wolves. Sheep eat grass, but wolves eat sheep. When people teach contrary to scripture, they're false teachers.

How can we be deceived?

1) Wrong information

2) Twisted information

3) Ignorance

Do you want to know how you can build your spiritual house on a firm foundation? Please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen on your computer, download it to your MP3 player, or podcast - all FREE of charge.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning service. We will be having a service on Christmas Day at 10:00 A.M., which is also the regular time for our meetings every Sunday.

We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rt. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Mark Your Calendars

2011-12-15T03:00:00.002-05:00

1) On Wednesday, 12/21/11, we will meet at Nashaminy Manor at 7:00 PM to sing Christmas Carols for the residents.

Afterward, we'll go to the church for hot chocolate and cookies. Come out and spread some joy for those unable to go home for the holidays.

2) We are still collecting donations to send to the church in Kenya for their building project. Our goal is $3,000. So far, we have $753.00.

Quotable Quote

2011-12-14T03:00:00.000-05:00

"Whether we like it or not, asking is a rule of the kingdom." - Charles Spurgeon

This Week at Zoe

2011-12-13T03:00:00.001-05:00

1. On Wednesday, 12/14/11, at 7:30 P.M., we'll gather for All Church Prayer.

2. Next Sunday, 12/18/11, is Visitor Sunday. Invite a friend!

Sunday Morning Series - Victory For Doubters - Summary

2011-12-12T03:00:00.003-05:00

Pastor Steve summarized the series, "Victory for Doubters." Here are a few highlights:

1) Just saying words won't change your circumstances. Belief must accompany your speech. Words have power when we believe.

2) There's a difference between believing in your heart and believing in your head. Thoughts can come into your head and affect what you say, but they won't come to pass. However, what you believe in your heart and speak carries power.

3) What's wrong when nothing changes? If I directly disobey a word from God, my words will have no impact. This can be corrected by doing what God says.

4) Indications of flesh faith (versus spiritual):

A) When you hear yourself saying, "I have been___________."

B) It should

C) Why didn't God_____?

D) I deserve___________.

Flesh faith is based on feelings and what I've done.

5) People who are going in the wrong direction:

A) Critical of others

B) Judge their motives without speaking to them.

C) Blame others for their own problems, dilemmas, and shortcomings.

D) Justify their actions to others not involved.

E) Recruit allies.

To hear the entire message, go to our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen on your computer, download it to your MP3 Player, or Podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to join us for Sunday Morning Worship. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church telephone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Quotable Quotes

2011-12-07T20:00:00.000-05:00

"Here's a side to the Christmas story that isn't often told : Those soft little hands, fashioned by the Holy Spirit in Mary's womb, were made so that nails might be driven through them. Those baby feet, pink and unable to walk, would one day walk up a dusty hill to be nailed to a cross. That sweet infant's head with sparkling eyes and eager mouth was formed so that someday men might force a crown of thorns onto it. That tender body, warm and soft, wrapped in swaddling clothes, would one day be ripped open by a spear. Jesus was born to die."

John MacArthur

Announcments

2011-12-07T19:45:00.000-05:00

We are planning to go over to Nashaminy Manor on either the 2nd or 3rd Wednesday night in December to sing carols to the residents.

We are still collecting donations to send to the Church in Kenya for their building project. Of the $3000.00 needed, $753 has been collected so far. Give as God directs you.

Instead of the usual Woman's Brunch there will be a cookie exchange this Saturday Dec. 10th.

The event will be at Pastor Steve and Connie's home at 10:00 a.m. Bring some cookies with you and take home some new ones. Regardless of bringing cookies or not this is a great time of fellowship. Hope to see you there.

Victory for Doubters - "Dealing with Entitled People

2011-12-07T19:30:00.001-05:00

Are you entitled? Perhaps you have been led into believing that you are entitled to healthcare, a part of someone else's wealth, etc. That's at least what the media and politicians would have us believe. After all it's what our country was founded on. NOT!!

If you look to the word of God we see that in Numbers 16 God is very definite in his approach to dealing with "entitled people". Miriam and Aaron rise up against Moses. They feel they are entitled to be recognized by the Lord as Moses is. The Lord thinks otherwise. He makes Miriam into a leper and were it not for the Priestly garment Aaron wore he would have shared the same fate. The Lord did give them a chance to repent.

Again, in Acts 4:34 - 5:11 Ananias and his wife sold a piece of property to give to the Apostles but felt they could hold back some of the money. They felt they were entitled to the recognition that others who gave were getting. God did not particularly care for this deceit. He was swift to Judge.

While we too would like to follow God's example it is not for us to be quite so final in our actions. We must remember we have not quite reached the perfection of God.

In John 8:1-10 we see how Jesus deals with this issue. A woman caught in the very act of adultery is brought into the midst of the crowd before Jesus. They ask Jesus whether they should stone the woman as Mose's law commands or not. They are not interested in justice.

They are trying to use this incident to bring Jesus down and elevate themselves in the people's eyes. To this end they are not above using other people.

Jesus reaction? Ignore them. He writes in the sand. And he continues writing until one by one the accusers have left. What did he write? Could have been the sins of the accusers? The Bible does not specify. But this is an effective way to deal with entitled people. Jesus refocused their attention from the sins of others to their own sins.

The entitlement mentality is a contagious one. People who feel entitled will try to show you how you too are entitled to what they themselves feel entitled to. Don't fall into this. Ignore them. Obviously, God doesn't like an entitlement attitude. You would not want to have him deal with you in the same manner he has dealt with others.

If "entitled" people can't draw you in to their mentality they will then try to bring you down. Don't listen to them, don't react to what they say. Don't fall into the trap of condemning others. Don't boast of your own righteousness. Your righteousness is from what Jesus did, not from anything you did. We must identify our lack of ability to Judge because of the sins that still reside in ourselves. We are told elsewhere in the Bible that before we can remove the speck from our brother's eye we need to remove the plank from our own eye.

Hear ye, Hear ye...

2011-11-17T03:00:00.002-05:00

The Children's Church is preparing THANKSGIVING BASKETS. Please alert Pastor Steve or the Children's Church staff if you know of a family that can use a basket.

Instead of the usual Women's Brunch scheduled for Saturday, November 26th, there will be a cookie exchange on Saturday, December 10th.

Watch the blog for further details.

Quotable Quotes

2011-11-16T03:00:00.001-05:00

"The object of His being made sick with our diseases was that we might be perfectly healed with His life." - E. W. Kenyon

This Week At Zoe

2011-11-15T03:00:00.003-05:00

On Wednesday, November 16th, at 7:30 P.M., we'll have our Midweek Service. The topic will be posted on our Facebook page on Wednesday.

Come out and find refreshment in God's Word!

The Men's Breakfast is this Saturday, November 19th, at 8:00 A.M. Bring your Bibles and a breakfast item.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Overcoming Bitterness

2011-11-14T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: I Samuel 30

Last week, we talked about bitterness. When bitterness takes root, it's usually a reaction between two people. One might not be aware of the problem. By definition, it's a feeling of anger or unforgiveness and can lead to retaliation.

A bitter person is easily angered, offended, and puts up barriers to relationship. It attacks the individual's joy, which in turn weakens them.

In I Samuel 30, we have the story of how the Amalekites burned down the homes of David's men, took their goods, their wives, and their children. When the warriors return home, they're angry and bitter against David and want to stone him.

David responded to this situation by strengthening his heart. Why does he need to do this? Any situation that has the potential to make you bitter will first get you to focus on something that won't help the situation. Worry, fear, and anxiety will be produced. Worry is to the Christian is what Krytonite is to Superman. It weakens the believer and renders him ineffective to deal with the situation.

How did he strengthen his heart? He put off the worry, anxiety, and fear and put on joy, love, gladness, and faith. He doesn't respond to the circumstances when he's in a weak condition, but puts on joy. Then David sought the Lord's counsel. He resists reacting to the bitterness around him and keeps a loving attitude toward his men and God.

Application:

1. Get strengthened.

2. Find counsel.

3. Respond lovingly and recognize you cannot change others.

4. Change yourself.

This is only a taste of the message. We hope you'll stop by the website for the "full meal." Just click on the Sermon Player link. You can listen on the computer, download it to your MP3 player, or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to worship with us on Sunday at 10:00 A.M. We'd enjoy meeting you!

Announcements

2011-11-10T03:00:00.002-05:00

The Men's Breakfast is Saturday, November 19th, at 8:00 A.M., and the Ladies' Brunch is Saturday, November 26th, at 10:00 A.M. Since the Ladies' meeting is Thanksgiving Weekend, please let Connie or Phyllis know whether or not you'll be able to attend.

The Children's Church is preparing Thanksgiving Baskets. If you know anyone that needs a basket, please let us know. They will be prepared and ready to go on Sunday, November 20th.

If you would like to contribute to these baskets, the Children's Church is collecting money to go out shopping for the food. Just write, "baskets," on your offering envelope and the amount you're giving. Thank you!

Quotable Quotes

2011-11-09T03:00:00.001-05:00

"Healing is just as valid this hour as forgiveness is valid this hour." - Billy Joe Daugherty

This Week at Zoe

2011-11-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

On Wednesday, 11/9/11, at 7:30 P.M., we'll have our All Church Prayer Night.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Bitterness

2011-11-07T03:00:00.002-05:00

Text: 2 Chronicles 14 - 16

Last week, we talked about pride. The root: A quality or ability not recognized or utilized properly by others. The enemy comes against the Godly character trait of humility and tries to destroy it.

We're moving on to the next hindrance to a victorious life: bitterness. What is it?

1) "A feeling of deep and bitter anger and ill will."

2) "A resentment strong enough to justify retaliation."

Root: A response or accusation perceived or received wrongfully. How many times have we said something that people misunderstood? Whether we meant it the way they received it or not, we still have to deal with the situation.

Who becomes bitter? No one is born bitter. We become bitter. Once bitterness sets in, other responses follow:

1) Easily angered.

2) Easily offended.

3) Jealousy

4) Envy

5) Barriers block relationships. You meet the person, and a wall goes up. You're on the defensive.

In 2 Chronicles 14 - 16, King Asa of Judah walked with the Lord. However, toward the end of his reign, he got angry when corrected by a prophet. Instead of repenting, he became offended and threw the messenger into prison.

Bitterness comes against the Godly character trait of joy. The joy of the Lord is our strength. When we hold bitterness in our hearts, it weakens us and provides an opening for the enemy to attack. Left unchecked, bitterness grows stronger over time.

To hear the full message, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to worship with us on Sunday morning at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Seminar with Margie Grotto Fleurant

2011-10-31T03:00:00.002-04:00

Rev. Margie Fleurant ministered to the ladies on Saturday, October 29, 2011. It was definitely one of those "God appointments."

Prayer is the cornerstone of her ministry, which is called, "The River Ministries." She teaches on intercession, getting to know the Holy Spirit, and learning how to flow with Him.

Her text was from John 14:10-16. The Holy Spirit is referred to as, "The Comforter." He is everything we need to fulfill our destiny.

Rather than attempt a complete summary of what she taught, here are a few nuggets to whet your appetite:

1) She quoted Frances Chan. "Without the Holy Spirit, people operate in their own strength and get human-sized results.

2) The more of the Word you put in your heart, the more the Holy Spirit has to draw on. Keep growing, keep learning, and feeding your spirit.

3) The Holy Spirit and the Word always agree. When you first wake up, look inward. What is God saying to you? Is a scripture, a song, or a few words catching your attention? That's the Holy Spirit speaking to you.

4) Margie said, "I don't want to be the work of man or tradition but of the Holy Spirit."

5) "It's the Holy Spirit that keeps your relationship with Christ fresh."

I took lots of notes and will be chewing on her insights for a long time. Our women were greatly blessed. A special note of thanks to Pastor Steve, Connie, and all the others, who worked so hard on this event.

If you'd like to learn more about The River Ministries, the resources available, or have her speak to your group, visit her website. I'm looking forward to reading her books and hearing her teach again.

Susan

Zoe Blog Writer

Hallelujah Night

2011-10-27T03:00:00.003-04:00

On October 31, 2011, from 6:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M., we will have our annual Hallelujah Night. We'll meet at the Philadelphia Sports Club (formerly High Point), in Chalfont, PA off of County Line Rd.

Next Sunday (10/30), please bring some packages of bite-sized candy for the children. We'll make up bags for them to take home.

In addition to food, candy, and fellowship, we'll be playing laser tag and wolleyball (for those who wish to participate). Invite your friends for this FREE event.

Quotable Quotes

2011-10-26T03:00:00.001-04:00

"It is impossible for one ever to pray with faith until the "if" has been removed from his prayer." - F. F. Bosworth

This Week at Zoe

2011-10-25T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, October 26, 2011, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will continue with the Ephesians series. Bring your Bible and invite a friend!

On Saturday, October 29, 2011, Rev. Margie Grotto Fleurant will hold a seminar for the Ladies. Margie will minister at the end of the session. Doors open at 8:30 A.M.

Please note, there is a $25.00 registration fee, which covers breakfast and lunch. We expect to be finished by 3:00 P.M.

If you plan to attend, please let us know ASAP, so we can make sure we have enough food for everyone. Please contact Pastor Steve or Connie.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - What Do We Ask For?

2011-10-24T03:00:00.004-04:00

Text: Mark 11:24, Matthew 6:8, Matthew 7:11, Luke 11:13, Matthew 18:19, John 14:13

We need to be clear what we're asking for when we pray. The Father is the One, whom we're petitioning. Prayer doesn't inform God of our needs. He knows our needs before we ask.

Jesus said we're to ask the Father in His name. God doesn't condemn us when we're struggling to believe. Abraham believed Him in the area of finances, but had difficulty with trusting God to fulfill His promise concerning an heir. God worked with Him until his faith was strong.

So, when we ask, we are...

1) Asking the Father, who is God

2) Who gives good things

3) Asking in the name of the Son.

What are we supposed to ask God for? In many cases Christians are asking God for what they already have. If you ask for something you already have, you're reinforcing unbelief. There are things we speak to and some we request. Jesus already provided salvation and healing. Here are some of the things we're to pray for:

1) Matt. 9:35-38 - That the Lord will send laborers to the field (sharing the Good News of eternal life through Jesus Christ).

2) Luke 11:5-13 - Intercession for others, who don't know how to ask.

3) Luke 11:13 - We can ask God for the Holy Spirit.

4) Ephesians 1:17-19 - We can ask for wisdom, revelation, and understanding.

5) Ephesians 3:16-19 - Strength, indwelling, comprehension.

6) Colossians 1:9-11 - Walk and fruitfulness.

7) Acts 4:24-31 - Boldness, signs, and wonders.

8) To know the will of God. (Jesus in the Garden and Paul to go to Rome)

To hear the entire message, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen on your computer, download the teachings to your MP3 player, or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Worship Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Women's Ministries Seminar

2011-10-20T03:00:00.007-04:00

On Saturday, 10/29/11, we will be having guest speaker, Rev. Margie Grotto Fleurant, at our monthly meeting. She will be teaching on "Hearing the Voice of God/Flowing with the Spirit."

Registration is $25.00 and covers the cost of breakfast and lunch. For more information and how to register, contact Connie via the church phone number.

Quotable Quotes

2011-10-19T03:00:00.001-04:00

"A sick soul invites a sick body." - Gordon Lindsay

This Week at Zoe

2011-10-18T03:00:00.004-04:00

On Wednesday, 10/19/2011, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve continues teaching on the book of Ephesians. Come out, and let's study the Word of God together!

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - "What is Seen and What is Revealed"

2011-10-17T03:00:00.003-04:00

Text: Genesis 48-49

Seeing is not all bad Our faith is based on what we see and understand in God's Word, but more wisdom and understanding awaits us in what waits to be revealed. When we walk in what God has revealed, He gives us more.

As his life draws toward a close, Israel gathers his children together and blesses them. He spoke what God revealed to him.

Don't equate inspiration with revelation. Many of the prophets spoke by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, but did not have an understanding of what it meant.

With revelation, the person both speaks and understands what God is saying.

When Joseph brings his sons, Manasseh and Ephraim to his father, he positions the oldest by Israel's right hand and the youngest by his left hand. The right hand always denoted a greater blessing. Since Israel's eyesight dimmed with old age, Joseph tried to help. His father crossed his hands, putting the right one on the younger son and the left one on the oldest.

When Joseph protested, Israel told him he knew what he was doing. While the oldest would be a great nation, the youngest would be even greater. Israel had sought God and received a specific word for each of his children.

Israel continued with each son, revealing their future. His words did not make it happen. Rather, God looked down through time and revealed what each one's future held based on their choices.

God wants us to speak and pray out of revelation. In John 15, Jesus said the Holy Spirit would reveal many things to the disciples after He was gone. It is the Holy Spirit who illuminates the Scripture and gives understanding to us.

To hear the entire message, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Quotable Quote

2011-10-12T09:00:00.000-04:00

"You are not going to get healed through cheap faith or lazy faith or nonchalant faith."

Norvel Hayes

Sunday Morning Series-Victory For Doubters-When You Pray

2011-10-11T11:00:00.003-04:00

We learned last week that there situations we are to speak to, not pray about, and situations in which we are to do the opposite.
This week we focus on praying to receive. Mark 11:24 we are told to ask GOD for whatever things, believe you receive them, and you will have them (paraphrased).

There are no restrictions on the asking save that whatever we are asking must be what we instructed to ask for from The Word.

When I ask I must be believing. The believing must be present at the asking. How do I come to this? Through the correct understanding of The Word. Understanding can come in a number of ways. Sometimes I just hear The Word and I understand right away. Sometimes I hear and I am unsure. This requires further study of The Word. Finally I hear and have to meditate upon The Word until the understanding comes. Trouble comes when we understand with our flesh and not with our spirits. That's when we build faith, not from God's Word , but from our own desires.

The receiving comes after the asking. The receiving has no impact on the believing, for if it does then it is not the God kind of faith. And the Faith of God is what pleases our Father.

Understanding God's Word + praying with believing = Receiving

To listen to the whole teaching visit the Zoe website sermon player.

Announcements

2011-10-11T10:40:00.001-04:00

If you are planning on giving to the building project in Kenya, just write"Kenya" on your offering envelope and the amount and we will keep you updated on our progress to the goal of $3,000 to build this church.

If you have the new i-Phone, an older one, the iTouch or the iPad, go to the app store on your device and search for "Sermon Network" and select "sermon net". It is a free app!! Once installed search for "Zoe Christian Fellowship" and we are the only one that comes up. You will be notified when new Sunday and Wednesday services are available. When the service is broadcast over the internet, you will be able to view it on your device as well. An app for ANDROID devices is coming soon.

Remember Ladies to return your information for the Ladies Conference with Margie Fleurant ASAP. Please fill out a new registration form for each guest. Make as many copies as you need. Burn out the ink drums for this one. There is a $25 registration fee to cover the cost of meals. All you need bring is your Bible and Great Expectations. Date is Saturday 11/29/11 at ZCF. gistration begins at

This Week At Zoe

2011-10-11T10:14:00.002-04:00

Wednesday 11/12/11 at 7:30 p.m. is Leadership Prayer/ All Church Prayer at Zoe.

Saturday 11/15/11 is the Men's Breakfast @ 8:00 a.m. in the Children's Church. Bring a breakfast item with you, your Bibles, and as always friends are encouraged to come.

Sunday 11/16/11 is Morning Service @ 10:00 a.m.

Announcements

2011-10-06T03:00:00.001-04:00

1) Covered Dish Dinner - We usually hold this the first Sunday in October, but it will be delayed a few weeks while we prepare some things for the meeting.

2) Kenya Church Building Project - We're raising funds to help a church in Kenya. Our goal is $3,000. Please mark, "Kenya," on your offering envelope and the amount you're giving. Thank you for your participation. We'll keep everyone updated on our progress.

3) Cell phones - Please remember to turn your cell phone off or at least into silent mode while in church.

4) Ladies' Fellowship - We'll have a special speaker on October 29th, and it will be an all-day event. An email will be sent out to the women with further details.

Quotable Quotes

2011-10-05T03:00:00.001-04:00

"There is no such thing as the Lord not meeting your need. There are no 'if's' or 'may's.' His promises are all 'shall's." - Smith Wigglesworth

This Week at Zoe

2011-10-04T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, 10/5/11, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will continue the Ephesians study.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Praying for God's Will

2011-10-03T03:00:00.002-04:00

Text: Various

When you are in a place of desperation, you're setting yourself up for failure. Desperation leads to bad decisions. In I Samuel 13, we see Saul making a sacrifice because he feels pressured by the people.

Urgency is the tool of deceivers to move possessors to give up their possessions. Think about infomercials. They'll often say, "call in the next 15 minutes," or "this is a limited time offer."

There are three ways we pray:

1) Praying in faith

This is when we know the will of God. Our prayer lines up with

His Word. What if the will of God is unknown? Perhaps we're

ignorant what the Bible has to say about the subject. There are

things the Word doesn't give us an answer, and God hasn't

shown me His will.

2) Praying in uncertainty

When we don't know the will of God, but we pray for something

anyway, we set ourselves up for failure. Many Christians do this out of desperation, and it results in trouble.

3) Praying in the Spirit

How do we pray to get God's will?

A) FIRST - Make sure it is not a matter settled in the Word.

B) SECOND - Seek the counsel of other mature Christians. There is wisdom in counsel.

C) THIRD - Ask God in prayer. Don't do this first.

To hear the entire message, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA 18976. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd be delighted to meet you!

Quotable Quote

2011-09-28T03:00:00.001-04:00

"Don't doubt God. If you must doubt something, doubt your doubts, because they are unreliable; but never doubt God, nor His Word." - F. F. Bosworth

This Week at Zoe

2011-09-27T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, 9/28/11, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will be teaching Ephesians 6:18 and the role of praying always with all prayer.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - When We Get Off Course

2011-09-26T00:01:00.001-04:00

Text: I Kings 11, Phil. 4:10-14

It might be easier for us to be content with what God has said he wills for our life, if only we didn't see other things going on around us that are better (or worse) than what we have, and we don't understand how they got there.

1) Contentment

A. Satan has two goals in this area.

1) To get you to become discontent with what

God has given you.

2) And content with what God has not

given you.

2) Philippians 4:10-14

A. I only need what I have.

B. What I don't have won't stop me.

C. Paul says whatever state I am in, not

whatever direction I am going.

He learned how to make his

contentment not hinge on his supply.

He's learned to be content whether

hungry or full.

To hear this message in its entirety, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd love to meet you!

Quotable Quotes

2011-09-21T03:00:00.001-04:00

"Faith is acting in the face of contrary evidence. The senses declare, 'It cannot be,' but Faith shouts above the turmoil, 'It is!" - E.W. Kenyon

This Week at Zoe

2011-09-20T03:00:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday, 9/21/11, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will continue the study on the armor of God in Ephesians 6. This week, he'll be covering the Sword of the Spirit.

On Saturday, 9/24/11, at 10:00 A.M., the Ladies' Brunch will be held in the Children's Church Auditorium. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bible.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Don't Lose Sight of His Will

2011-09-19T03:00:00.001-04:00

Text: Various

When I am lead to believe that evil things in my life are the will of God for me, the seeds of bitterness toward God are likely growing.

We know that God's Word and His will are the same. God's call for your life and His will are the same.

God called Abraham to be the father of many nations. Yet, Abraham's situation was anything but blessed. His wife was barren, and this was a source of great sorrow.

When God speaks to Abraham in Genesis 15:1-7, Abraham tells God that He hasn't given him any offspring. In effect, he's saying that God is the cause of his problems. His eyes are so fixed on the situation that he loses sight of the promise.

The circumstances around you are noisy, but you can shut them out. If a guy is watching a football game, he can hyper-focus on it and block out any other sound. His wife could be calling him for dinner, the telephone ringing, and the dog barking, but he's totally absorbed in that game. We can do the same thing with the things in our lives that don't match up to the promises of God.

Just because you have a long-standing problem or condition doesn't mean you should accept it as God's will. Jesus said He came to do the will of the Father. So, when we see Him healing the sick, freeing those in bondage, and proclaiming liberty to the captives, we know those things are God's will.

To hear the entire message, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen online, download it to your MP3, or podcast. And...it's FREE!

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service, which starts at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church telephone number is (215) 343-7686.

We'd love to meet you!

How Do I Find...?

2011-09-15T03:00:00.001-04:00

The Church Blog - Just go to the church website (www.zoe-ministries.org). On the left side, you'll see a menu. The Zoe Life Blog is at the bottom of the list. Just click on it, and you'll go right to the blog. Another way to get here quickly is to mark the blog as a Favorite in your web browser.

We encourage you to leave a comment or question for Pastor Steve.

Note: You'll need a gmail account to do this. It's easy to sign up and FREE.

Quotable Quotes

2011-09-14T03:00:00.001-04:00

"Now, we have inscribed a new memory alongside those others. It's a memory of tragedy and shock, of loss and mourning. But not only of loss and mourning. It's also a memory of bravery and self-sacrifice, and the love that lays down its life for a friend--even a friend whose name it never knew." -- George W. Bush on 12/11/2001

This Week at Zoe

2011-09-13T03:00:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday, 9/14/11, at 6:30 P.M., the leadership will meet for prayer. At 7:30 P.M., we'll have ALL CHURCH prayer.

On Saturday, 9/17/11, at 8:00 A.M., the Men will gather in the Children's Church Auditorium for Breakfast and Bible Study. Please bring a breakfast item, and invite a friend.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - What God Allows

2011-09-12T03:00:00.003-04:00

Text: Luke 5:17-26, Acts 3, Mark 6:1-7

In Luke 5:17-26, we're told the power of God was present to heal THEM (emphasis mine). Wouldn't that also mean it was God's will to heal them?

Yet, only the man let down through the ceiling on a pallet was healed. If it was the will of God to heal those present, what stopped it?

Scripture records they were offended, and offense causes unbelief or rejection of the truth.

In Mark 6:1-7, we're told Jesus could do no mighty works because of their unbelief.

In Acts 3, Peter and John go into the temple. They're stopped by a crippled man begging for alms. He was in this condition many years. He sat in this same spot. Yet, he never encountered Jesus. Peter and John get his attention. They tell him they don't have any silver or gold, but they would give him what they had. You can only give others what you have and what you know you have. He commands the man to rise up and walk in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

The two disciples make it clear this was done by the power of Jesus and not themselves. What were the three steps they took?

1) They created expectation in the man.

2) They told him they had something to give him.

3) They freely gave what they had by the power of Jesus.

Some Lessons Learned:

1) There's often a discrepancy between the will of God and what actually happens. We must remember there's the will of God and the execution of His will.

2) Just because a situation is long-term doesn't mean it's God's will. Our commission in this world is to change what is against God's will through His power. We don't learn God's will by observing an existing circumstance. We learn God's will through His Word.

To hear this message in its entirety, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast it FREE.

Quotable Quotes

2011-09-07T03:00:00.001-04:00

"You can believe all day long that the Bible is true - and that's to your credit - but what the Bible says will never affect your life in a personal way until you start acting on God's Word..." - Frederick K.C. Price

This Week At Zoe

2011-09-06T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, 9/7/11, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on the helmet of salvation in Ephesians 6. If you missed all or part of this series, you can find it on the Sermon Player at our website.

Come out and soak up God's Word!

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Is This What God Wants?

2011-09-05T03:00:00.002-04:00

Text: John 9

Have we accepted that what we have is what God wants? Whenever we see something bad or experience something bad, how often does our mind go to what bad thing must have been done? The disciples question in John 9:1-7 is much like what people ask today: What was the cause of this effect?

The question is based on an assumption that someone sinned. If a question is based on a false assumption, you'll always get a wrong answer. Jesus refutes the foundation of the question and answers the question they're really asking.

Please note that in the original manuscripts there was no punctuation, no periods, no commas, no semicolons or colons. The translators supplied these to make the text readable. The problem is a misplaced period or other punctuation mark can change the meaning of the sentence. We encounter this situation in this passage. The way it's punctuated makes it look like the man was blind, so God could heal him and get the glory. This contradicts many other scriptures.

John 9:8-33 - People seem to fall into three groups. Often they overlap, but in general terms:

1) Those who believe that God through those who have faith in Jesus is moving, saving, healing and working in this world.

2) Those who believe the only certainty of God's will is that He saves sinners through faith in His name.

3) Those who either don't believe in God or that He does anything in this world.

To listen to the entire message, please visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. We can only give you a small taste of the teaching here on the blog, a virtual sample. We'd like you to enjoy the full meal. :)

Now Available

2011-08-25T03:00:00.001-04:00

New Sermons from the Sunday Morning Series on Victory for Doubters are available on the website sermon player. We added:

1) The Thorns in Our Flesh

2) The Will of God

Everything is up to date on the Ephesians Series from Wednesday night.

To access these messages, go to the church webpage, and click on the "Listen to Sermons" menu option on the left. You can also find us free in the iTunes store under "Zoe Christian Fellowship."

Quotable Quote

2011-08-24T03:00:00.002-04:00

"He can only give according to His might; therefore He always gives more than we ask for..." - Martin Luther

This Week At Zoe

2011-08-23T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, August 24, 2011, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will continue the series on Ephesians. He's teaching on Chapter 6 - the armor of God.

Come out and invite a friend!

On Saturday, August 27, 2011, at 10:00 A.M., the Ladies' Brunch will be held in the Children's Church Auditorium.

Please bring a breakfast item and your Bibles.

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - Who is the Father?

2011-08-22T03:00:00.003-04:00

Text: 2 Samuel 9

Knowing the will of the Father is the beginning of faith, but what happens when we build our belief upon a misconception? Just because you believe something doesn't make it true. For years, people believed the world was flat and even killed those who disagreed.

In Exodus 17:1-7, the Israelites asked, "Is God out to kill us?" They didn't trust that He had their best interests in mind. Likewise, in I Samuel 8:4-9, they demanded Samuel give them a king. God gave them what they wanted, but it wasn't His perfect will. They suffered much because they rejected God as their king.

Believing What is False

In 2 Samuel 9, David makes inquiries about Jonathan's descendants. Ziba, Saul's servant, reveals Jonathan's son is alive. Mephibosheth was five years old when David became King of Judah. His nurse fled with him, but in her haste the boy was injured and became lame. All those years, he remained hidden and changed his identity from Meribaal (opponent of Baal) to Mephibosheth (contends with idols).

When a new king came to power, the former king's heirs were killed. All his life, he was told not to reveal his parentage and to fear David. He marries, has a son, and one day David's representative comes knocking at his door with orders to report to the king. What he's feared all his life has come to pass.

David had a covenant with Jonathan and wanted to bless any remaining descendants. Mephibosheth's views of David were shaped by people who didn't know David.

Just like Jonathan's son, we often view God by what other people say about Him. Many times those opinions are not based in truth.

To hear the entire message, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can listen online, download it to your MP3 player, or podcast it.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to worship with us on Sunday morning at 10:00 A.M. We also have Bible Study on Wednesday nights at 7:30 P.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church telephone number is (215) 343-7686. We'd enjoy meeting you!

There's an APP for That!

2011-08-18T03:00:00.001-04:00

Did you know there is an app in the itTunes store for th sermon player we use? Go to the app store on your iPhone, iTouch, or iPad and search for "Sermon Network," and select "sermon.net."

It is a FREE app. Once installed, search for "Zoe Christian Fellowship." We are the only one that comes up. Once you add it, you will be notified as soon as new Sunday or Wednesday services are available. When the service is broadcast over the internet, you will be able to view it on your device as well.

An app for Android devices is coming soon.

Quotable Quote

2011-08-17T03:00:00.001-04:00

"Only he who can see the invisible can do the impossible." - Anonymous

This Week at Zoe

2011-08-16T03:00:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday, 8/17/11, at 7:30 P.M., Pastor Steve will teach on the Armor of God from Ephesians 6.

The MEN'S BREAKFAST is this Saturday (8/20) at 8:00 A.M. Please bring a breakfast item and your Bibles!

Sunday Morning Series - Victory for Doubters - The Things We Have Grown

2011-08-15T03:00:00.002-04:00

Text: Various

Our Level of Understanding

Just as with math, science, and other studies, there are levels in what we understand in the things of God. Each new level carries with it more responsibility and greater endurance. Possessing AND walking in greater understanding produces great faith.

Our Ground Conditions

Philippians 4:4-9 tells us to rejoice in the Lord always, possess gentleness, be anxious for nothing, and direct our meditations (thoughts). The end result is the peace of God. We're to think on what's just, of good report, etc.

Colossians 3:12-17 tells us to let the word of God dwell in us richly. This can only happen if we let it. Many Christians allow the words of men to dwell in them richly, but when they need God's Word to work, they expect some confession of it to overcome what dwells in them.

Our Endurance

How many think of patience/perseverance when we think of Job? That word comes from a word meaning, " cheerful endurance."

We can't walk by faith all the while looking for physical evidence. If I say, "Jesus is my provider" and when a bad report comes to me say, "well, I guess He didn't provide." The Word can be stolen, scorched or choked when understanding leaves me. We need to patiently endure.

To hear this message in its entirety, visit our website, and click on the Sermon Player. You can also download it to your MP3 player or podcast FREE.

If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning worship service at 10:00 A.M. We're located at 1111 Easton Rd. (Rte. 611), Warrington, PA. The church phone number is (215) 343-7686.

Announcements

2011-08-11T03:00:00.001-04:00

New sermons from the Sunday Morning Series on Victory for Doubters are available on the Sermon Player. We added: "The Change I Need" (Part 2) - James 1 and "The Greatest Love Story" - Alan Hecht.

From the EPHESIANS SERIES on Wednesday, "Walk in the Light" is available on the Sermon Player, as well as "Be Filled With The Spirit" from chapter 5:15-21. More will be added during the week, so check often!

You can access these messages by going to the church website, and clicking on the "Listen to Sermons" menu option on the left. You can also find us free in the iTunes store under "Zoe Christian Fellowship."