Articles

GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 12^th April 2020

TOPIC: The significance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Heb 9:11-28, Isaiah 52:13-53:1-12, 1 Peter 1:18-19, 3:18,

Introduction:

The fall of man and entry of sin to the world distorted Gods original plan for man
Jesus came to the earth out of love for humanity. It was voluntary
His coming was part of Gods redemptive plan for man, to redeem and restore
The climax of this eternally significant purpose and plan was fully completed and sealed on the cross, sin paid for and man set free
The message of the cross is the most critical and central one in the Christian faith.
Understanding what Jesus’ death & resurrection mean to a believer is the core of our salvation. If understood, it brings complete transformation and revolution
Above all, practically living, it is a sure means of complete & perpetual believer’s victory
The cross is more than a physical symbol we carry around. Its real power lies in our understanding and applying faith in Christ.

What happened to Jesus before, on and after the cross: Matt 26-28, Mark 14-16, Luke 22-24

He knew what was going to happen to Him, went into it voluntarily
Had the last supper with His disciples. He instituted the holy communion
He went to the garden of Gethsemane, groaned in prayer
Betrayed by one of His own disciples. The others fled.
He was arrested, falsely accused, taken through a kangaroo court process
He was tortured, beaten by a company of soldiers(400-600), spat on, given a crown of thorns
Driven to Golgotha, carrying His own cross(about 30kgs) on the terribly torn back,
He was hanged on the cross, between two thieves at a cross road junction– a humiliating public death
He shed His blood, His body beaten and broken. He was mocked
Hanged for 6 hours, from 9am to 3pm.
Cries it is finished and died and is buried. He had fully paid the price for our salvation
He went to hell, and disarmed the devil of the authority he stole from man, took the keys of death and Hades from Satan and preached to the souls in bondage there
Jesus resurrects on the third day, triumphantly, forever victorious

Why did He have to go through all these? What does this mean to us as believers?

Everything that happened to Jesus before the cross, as He hang on it and after up to the resurrection and ascension to heaven has important significance to us Christians. Here below we mention some of them

To restore man to the original intended plan of God; power, authority, dominion, rights and privileges man lost to Satan at the fall
For the forgiveness of our sins, and to obtain eternal redemption (Heb 9:12,22, John 19:30)
For our peace (reconciliation) with God under a new covenant He established with His blood (Heb 9:15, Rom 4:25, 5:1-2, Isaiah 53:5)
He removed separation between man and God when the curtain in the temple tore from top to bottom (Matt 27:51, Heb 10:19-20). Now through Jesus’ blood, we can access God
For the healing of our sickness and diseases, by His stripes (1 Peter 2:24, Isaiah 53:4)
For the removal of curses so that we inherit the blessings of Abraham(Gal 3:13-14)
To pay the price for redemption of mankind as He hanged for 6hours, number 6 stands for man
The 3 hour darkness meant, all human sin was concentrated and heaped on Jesus
His voluntary death demonstrated God’s eternal, unconditional and selfless love for man – that is GRACE, undeserved mercy (Rom 5:8, John 3:16-17)
He eternally defeated Satan and all his demons. We have complete victory in Him (Matt 28:18, Eph 1:19-21, Col 2:14-15)
His death and resurrection meant He conquered death (Rev 1:18)
He was rejected by men, so that we may be acceptable to God
His resurrection – gives us a glorious hope that we shall rise with Him (Acts 24:15,1 Thes 4:14, 1 Peter 1:3)
He ascended to heaven gloriously, triumphantly, forever victorious and sat at the right hand of the Father – we are seated and reigning victorious with Him (Eph 2:6)
He was given a name higher than any other in heaven earth and under the earth. He has given us the right to use His name (Eph 1:22, Phil 2:9-11)

How do we get to operate in this level of the finished work of Christ on the cross?

All that jesus did for us will remain so foreign and far from us until we learn to tap into it. This explains why so many believers, although they know and believe what Jesus did for us, still cant experience for themselves. These things are for every child of God. What do we need to do to benefit;

Need revelation and awareness of our new status and belonging in Christ (Eph 1:15-18)
Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, think heavenly (Rom 12:2, Col 3:1-3)
Refuse to be subject to world any longer. Resist the lies of the devil
Live by the word, walk into your victory. It’s done. The purchase was completed.
Claim the promises and the things Jesus did for us, all of them
Live in obedient submission to God and commitment to His will

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Friday Overnight Sermon

Date: 31^st January, 2020

TOPIC: Positioning yourself for God’s move

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: 2 Chronicles 20:1-30, Exodus 14:13-14, 2 Chronicles 12:32

Why position yourself?

To position yourself for God’s move is to be in a state of a) awareness about what God is doing or about to do, b) readiness and availability to be used of God for what He wants to do in and through you, c) to be able to tell when God moves and to move along.

We thus need to position ourselves;

So that you are ready and in line with God’s timing. When God is about to do something new and extraordinary, He alerts His people in advance (Amos 3:7). He never intends to take anyone by surprise. This is why He speaks and gives signs to show us in advance that something is going to happen.

To be able to be part of what God is doing. Positioning yourself puts you in a state of readiness to see, receive and participate in God’s move (Isaiah 43:18-19, 1 Sam 3:11-14, Joshua 1:1-11)

To move to another level (Deut 1:6). There are seasons for new and bigger things, of moving to another level. If that time comes and you are not ready, you miss out and opportunities pass you by.

There are seasons for each one of us, and for the whole world. We should know what God is saying/doing, planning to do and how He wants us to fit into His plans

The current season is the end time move of God in revival that will usher in the second coming of the Jesus.

God will normally speak or initiate a burden to pray and seek His face before His move

Those who respond to God’s prompting and leading benefit and are secured from the hour of trial. Those who think it is business as usual miss out, or fall victims of trial and temptation (Luke 21:36, Matt 26:41).

When we are not prepared and well positioned;

a) We get scared of what is happening around us because we are shocked and seeing like everyone else.
b) We become susceptible to opportunistic schemes of the enemy and we can fall victims of what is happening or are outwitted and defeated. It is a war technique to make surprise attacks on the enemy
c) We don’t get instructions from God on how to respond. We end up responding using human wisdom, using own experience and common knowledge the same way politicians, scientists, economists, historians, traditions, etc do respond. Yet there are things that only belong to God and these specialists and technocrats in their wisdom can’t handle. Things orchestrated by God and require His direct involvement cannot be handled by them. Or God may be having a totally different approach and strategy for common challenges

Why God requires our corporation

One may wonder why God would labor to get us involved in His moves and plans, yet He is all powerful, all knowing and can do whatever He wants to do even without us. God does this for various reasons;

God gave man dominion to rule over the earth and all things in it. Hoe honors it and can only intervene in the affairs of the world after man has involved Him. That is why He wants us to pray, because prayer gives Him permission to work on earth.
To use us for this work. God needs human vessels for His work.(Ezekiel 22:30-31, Isaiah 56:16, Psalm 106:23). He is seeking people to use to accomplish His plans and purposes
To escape the judgments and consequences of disobedience that follow His warnings.(Luke 13:5, Rev 2:5, Exodus 33:10) In His justice, God will not punish anyone before warning and giving them a chance to mend their ways and return to Him. Whoever will perish will have chosen to, because they will always have opportunity to return to God and be forgiven, restored and healed

(c) To benefit from what is to happen for you as an individual and corporately. When God wants to pour His blessings, or to do anew thing in the season of visitation, He will give those who are ready (Luke 19:41-44)

How do we prepare ourselves?

Be still in the presence of God(Exodus 14:13-14, Psalm 46:10). This settles your heart and prepares it to hear from God alone. If not, you will not react in panic. The devil uses fear and confusion to his advantage to mess you up.
Wait on the Lord in prayer, fasting, meditation (2Chron 20:3-4,Esther 4:15-17). This may go on for long, but do so for whatever it takes.
Seek guidance, get instructions and matching orders from God. Obey them. Commit to a life of obedience to God. Its of paramount importance that you get instructions from God (2 Samuel 2:1-2,5:17-25)
Dwell on God’s word.
Watch the seasons, follow up and monitor prophecies. Some of them get fulfilled right before our eyes but because we didn’t follow them up, it takes by surprise like anyone else.
Persevere in tough times. Stick to what God said to you.
Be sensitive and alert in the spirit
Don’t forget it is God doing His work through you. Even behind the scenes, God is working.

Responding to the word in prayer:

About GGM prophecies
Individual lives

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 5^th January 2020

TOPIC: After Gods Heart (Acts 13:22)

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Acts 13:22, 1 Sam 13:14, 15:23, Matt 7:15-23,

Introduction: The theme of 2020: After God’s Heart

To be after God’s heart is to love what He loves, hate what He hates, go where He goes or wants you to go

Its an allegiance, loyalty, a commitment to do only what pleases Him. Its more than lip service, or an on and off relationship

One pays the price of self denial to be after God’s heart – to let God be.

Mans heart and desires on their own tend to be contrary to God, and so the need to align them to God.

All men and women who were greatly used by God, were after God’s heart.

God is looking for men after His heart, who will do all His will – He found David and testified about him. He did that for Noah, Job, Abraham,

God will not do much with anyone whose loyalty is not in Him, or with divided attention. He wants our whole commitment

Examples of great men who had hearts after God: Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, Paul, John

What it takes to be after God’s heart?

We should be willing to make some commitments, take a step and pay a price to be after Gods heart.

Willingly seek after Him, His will and be obedient to what He says (1 Sam 15:22-23)
Submit your will to His will, forsaking all others (idols) and serve Him only (Luke 22:42, John 5:19,30)
The submission should come out of trust in God Who never fails, and cares about you (Job 13:15)
Develop and maintain a desire, thirst and hunger after God (Psalm 42:1-2, 63:1, Matt 5:6)
Wage a good warfare, resisting the forces against your commitment to God (1 Peter 2:11, Rom 13:14)
Persevere and be consistent in your commitment – there will be tough times
Commit to a regular devotional life to keep in step with God (Acts 2:42)
Constantly nourishing your spiritual life – through the word, prayer, fasting, service, fellowship, reaching out to others, release your gifting and talents

Hindrances to having a heart after God:

There are forces that will try as much as possible to stand in our way not to become men and women after God’s heart. The chief agent behind all these is the devil. None of these can stand a determined person, thirsty and hungry after

The flesh – subject it (1 Cor 9:27)
The desire for the pleasures of life
The environment around us, the systems and people
A stubborn rebellious heart seeking its own wishes
Living in sin

Benefits of having a heart after God

Our labour and commitment to be after God will definitely be rewarded here and into eternity future. These are some of them;

Do God’s will in its entirety – please Him
You have a close relationship with God – you reflect His nature
You see and experience God’s glory. The experience totally transforms you in every way
You get to know the secrets in the heart of God (Psalm 25:14)
You live a secured in times of storms of life
You receive all the blessings of the Lord for His chosen ones
You become a blessing to many, a channel of God to minister to people
You become what God meant you to be whe n He made you

Conclusion:

What personal commitments are you willing to make in your time, financial, material, social resources to build a close relationship with God?

If you have lost the zeal and first love for God, He can restore you.

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 15^th September, 2019

TOPIC: Delight in the Lord

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Psalm 1:1-3, Psalm 37:4

Introduction:

Psalm 37:4 “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” – KJV

Definition: To delight in something is to have a strong feeling of satisfaction; great pleasure or satisfaction; extreme satisfaction in it. It is to love something/someone deeply/passionately.

To delight in the Lord, therefore, is to find strong feeling of satisfaction, great pleasure or extreme satisfaction in Him. It is to love God with all your mind, soul, strength, heart (Mark 12:30)

Delighting in God is the joy of salvation in God. It makes us rejoice and take pleasure in God our Savior

Delighting in something or someone shows in our words, actions, emotions, use of our time and other resources towards that thing or person

Anything that tries to hinder you in what you delight in, becomes an enemy and is fought. You defend what you delight in. What do you say of the Lord…(Psalm 91:2). If He is your delight, you will fight off anything that wants to affect your relationship with Him

No one excels in what they don’t enjoy doing. You look for the slightest excuse to be out of it. This shows in our relationship with God as well if we don’t delight in Him

In your delight is your treasure, the things you value. Your heart will be there. You fight for it. It gives you joy, peace, identity, meaning and purpose. You cannot hide or pretend about it.

Everyone’s delight is somewhere. You are either delighting in God, or something/someone else. When you cease to delight yourself (it’s a choice) in God, something is taking over, and you are backsliding. The Bible says you cannot serve God and mammon ( ). One takes precedence

You can never be rooted and established in God without deliberately delighting in God

Personal reflection and discussion (if in a group):

Think about a person, a thing or someone you enjoy so much…. What would you do to express that delight for them? Now let’s see what you would do if your delight is in God.

When you delight in the Lord:

The following are some indicators of our level of delight in God. You can use this as a checklist for your relationship with God;

You spend time with Him, fellowshipping and communing with Him (Psalm 27:4)

If not, you give no time, have no communion or fellowship with Him, you easily miss fellowship, prayers, without any genuine reason and take it lightly

You value His word, meditate on it and are careful to obey (Psalm 1:2, Joshua 1:8)

If not, you attach no value for the word, have no meditation, no commitment to obey, other things fill you up

You love what God loves and hate what He hates

If not, you love and do things even when you know they displease Him

You willingly serve Him, are committed to do His will for your life regardless of consequences

If not, you serve under compulsion, to be seen by others, but not committed to His will in your, easily compromise at the earliest opportunity

You resist the devil and his tempting attempts to get you to displease God

If not, displease God without much feeling of remorse

You freely give your life and all you have to Him; pay any price, with no hypocrisy

If not, withhold your life and things you have, not willing to sacrifice, play double standards with the world, give excuses to justify lukewarmness

You desist from the company and the ways of the wicked

If not, the company and ways of the wicked don’t bother you much, you sometimes enjoy or downplay their evil ways

You freely talk about Him everywhere you go, not ashamed of Him as you seek to bring others to Him

If not, you get ashamed of Him, easily join the mockers of God

Benefits of delighting in God

Our delight in God is not in vain. God committed Himself to reward it.

Leads to a deep relationship with God – communion with God from a genuine heart
You get to know the secrets in the heart of God (Psalm 25:14)
Guarantees a steadfast productive life in God (psalm 1:3)
You are assured of His protection. Evil shall be far from you (Psalm 27:1,2,3,5, Proverbs 19:23, Psalm 91)
God takes delight in you as well (Job 1:8). He will proud of you
God grants the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4)
Keeps evil away and keeps you on the path of the godly
God honors and exalts you (Psalm 91:14)
God answers you quickly (Psalm 91:15)
You live a long life (psalm 91:16)
You live a peaceful fruitful life (Psalm 37:11, 25:13,)

How to cultivate delight in God

There are forces of the devil, the flesh and the world that don’t allow you to take delight in God. Their primary purpose is to make us not find much joy in God our Savior and quickly introduce other things to take that place in our hearts. By so doing, we drift away from God into other things. It is therefore a battle we must fight by doing these;

Purpose to love and trust Him in all circumstances in simplicity of heart
Spend time in things and places that enhance your relationship with Him e.g fellowship, bible study, prayer, serving, reaching out to others
Make your priorities right (Matt 6:33)
Be regular and consistent in your devotions. Resist attempts/excuses to discontinue devotions
Be filled with the Holy Spirit and live by His guidance
If you have lost the joy of salvation, you can call on Him to restore it to you(Psalm 51:12)

Conclusion:

Do a honest check of your life. What delights you more than anything else? Where is your treasure? Have you lost the joy of salvation, your first love for God, and now do things routinely without conviction? You can be restored.

If it is anything other than God, get back to God. Let all other things come after

Delighting in God is the only sure way to enjoy our walk with God.

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 25^th August, 2019

TOPIC: Understanding Seasons and Times

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Numbers 9:15-23

Introduction:

1 Chronicles 12:32 “And of the children of Issachar, which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred; and all their brethren were at their commandment.” KJV

To understand or discern seasons and times is to know what is happening or will happen around us and relating it to biblical prophecies, and using this information to adjust our lifestyles and actions for maximum benefit.

Why should we seek to know seasons and times?

God set seasons and times from the beginning, as signs to us and to fulfill certain specific purposes (Genesis 1:14). They are in His hand. He controls them
He operates in seasons and times. When you are left behind or go ahead of His set times and seasons you miss out what He has ordained for that period. He expects us to fit into them.
There is a time for everything, a fullness of time for whatever He has purposed to do
At His appointed times, everything fits into place (provision, protection, presence). There is sufficient grace. Outside it, you struggle because you are forcing things to happen.
Every time seasons and times change, everything else also changes with it.
Its therefore important to discern them so that you flow with it and respond accordingly
Its wisdom to know the times Ester 1:13. It’s foolish to live as if things are the same throughout
It takes discernment to know the right times and seasons. God sometimes prompts us to do and prepare for certain things
There are general seasons that affect everyone alike. But there are also personal seasons because God has plans and seasons for individuals as well
This principle of seasons applies in all things and aspects of life – business, farming, working and retirement, relationships, growing and aging, ministry, personal, group, community, nation, the world.
The seasons and times we live in now point to the soon return of Jesus. God gave us the signs pointing to His coming which we should watch so as to prepare for His return (Matt 24, 2 Tim 3: 1-5,

Importance of discerning and understanding seasons and times

From the above discussion therefore, we learn that the God Who set seasons and times knows everything about our future and what He wants to do at each season. Trust Him as He leads. In summary, the benefits we gain by studying, understanding and discerning seasons include:

Enables planning and preparation. You don’t lose time. You use your time rightly
You benefit from the opportunities and blessings of each season
You progress, grow, and move with the times
You live in wisdom, knowing what and what not to do ,to move and not to move
You are sure and secure in all you do, no gambling, and not scared of what is happening
You walk in the will of God and please Him all the time
You are effective and on point in what you do.
Encourages innovation/creativity as you know before time what is happening

How do we understand and discern seasons and times?

If we are sensitive, watchful and alert enough, we can always sense change of seasons. The signs will always be there that the season is changing. Here are some signs to watch;

Natural occurrences following days and years. Every new season means something else
Watch the signs. Studying and watching what is happening in your environment and the world gives us a clear idea of what the times are. E.g listen to news, read a newspaper, discuss with others, the world is changing so rapidly towards the coming of the Lord.(Matt 24). Don’t just be scared of what is happening.
Study the bible to relate what is happening with biblical prophecies. Compare them
Live a devoted life in close relationship with God. There are things He reveals only to those close to Him. LEARN TO WAIT ON THE LORD so that your spiritual eyes and ears can hear and discern what is happening and yet to happen. God reveals His secrets to those sensitive enough to listen (Amos 3:7)
Study what others have written or talked about concerning the present season to learn more
In your individual, family, career, business, aging, etc seasons, watch what is happening and changing. Seek knowledge and adjust accordingly so as to move with the times. Don’t hold on to the past when new things are happening. God is always doing a new thing and wants us to discern it (Isaiah 43:18-19).

Sometimes we delay or miss our own seasons and times by

Being disobedient. When we obey what God tells us, we graduate into the next level. If not, we remain there until we obey to move to the next level
Being insensitive to change. If you live and do things as usual, like every day, month or year is the same, you miss a lot on the new things happening
Too lazy and slow to respond. When you take God and change for granted, and remain stuck to your past, you miss. Change means adjustment of your time, resources, schedules and hard work
Following/copying other peoples seasons and times. Except seasons and changes that affect everyone universally, God has a season for everyone. When you do things because others are doing, you miss your own, because God has different guidance and instructions for each one.
Dwelling on the past. It’s gone and you can’t get it back. Whether it was good or bad, leave it behind and move on with the new seasons. (Isaiah 43:18-19, Deut 1:6). Move with the cloud as the people of Israel were required to do (Numbers 9:15-23)

Conclusion:

What could be the seasons in your life, family, work, career, walk with God, etc?

Are you where you should be, or not? What could have happened that you are not progressing?

Is there something you need to change and do differently? Be determined and do it. Start now. Find an accountability partner to help keep you on track

Do you feel you lost an opportunity in the past and it haunts you? God forgives and restores and does new things. Leave the past behind and move on with God.

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 7^th April, 2019,

TOPIC: Understanding Seasons and Times

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Numbers 9:15-23

Introduction:

Why should we seek to know seasons and times?

God set seasons and times from the beginning, as signs to us and to fulfill certain specific purposes (Genesis 1:14). They are in His hand. He controls them
He operates in seasons and times. When you are left behind or go ahead of His set times and seasons you miss out what He has ordained for that period. He expects us to fit into them.
There is a time for everything, a fullness of time for whatever He has purposed to do
At His appointed times, everything fits into place (provision, protection, presence). There is sufficient grace. Outside it, you struggle because you are forcing things to happen.
Every time seasons and times change, everything else also changes with it.
Its therefore important to discern them so that you flow with it and respond accordingly
Its wisdom to know the times Ester 1:13. It’s foolish to live as if things are the same throughout
It takes discernment to know the right times and seasons. God sometimes prompts us to do and prepare for certain things
There are general seasons that affect everyone alike. But there are also personal seasons because God has plans and seasons for individuals as well
This principle of seasons applies in all things and aspects of life – business, farming, working and retirement, relationships, growing and aging, ministry, personal, group, community, nation, the world.
The seasons and times we live in now point to the soon return of Jesus. God gave us the signs pointing to His coming which we should watch so as to prepare for His return (Matt 24, 2 Tim 3: 1-5,

Importance of discerning and understanding seasons and times

Enables planning and preparation. You don’t lose time. You use your time rightly
You benefit from the opportunities and blessings of each season
You progress, grow, and move with the times
You live in wisdom, knowing what and what not to do ,to move and not to move
You are sure and secure in all you do, no gambling, and not scared of what is happening
You walk in the will of God and please Him all the time
You are effective and on point in what you do.
Encourages innovation/creativity as you know before time what is happening

How do we understand and discern seasons and times?

If we are sensitive, watchful and alert enough, we can always sense change of seasons. The signs will always be there that the season is changing. Here are some signs to watch;

Natural occurrences following days and years. Every new season means something else
Watch the signs. Studying and watching what is happening in your environment and the world gives us a clear idea of what the times are. E.g listen to news, read a newspaper, discuss with others, the world is changing so rapidly towards the coming of the Lord.(Matt 24). Don’t just be scared of what is happening.
Study the bible to relate what is happening with biblical prophecies. Compare them
Live a devoted life in close relationship with God. There are things He reveals only to those close to Him. LEARN TO WAIT ON THE LORD so that your spiritual eyes and ears can hear and discern what is happening and yet to happen. God reveals His secrets to those sensitive enough to listen (Amos 3:7)
Study what others have written or talked about concerning the present season to learn more
In your individual, family, career, business, aging, etc seasons, watch what is happening and changing. Seek knowledge and adjust accordingly so as to move with the times. Don’t hold on to the past when new things are happening. God is always doing a new thing and wants us to discern it (Isaiah 43:18-19).

Sometimes we delay or miss our own seasons and times by

Being disobedient. When we obey what God tells us, we graduate into the next level. If not, we remain there until we obey to move to the next level
Being insensitive to change. If you live and do things as usual, like every day, month or year is the same, you miss a lot on the new things happening
Too lazy and slow to respond. When you take God and change for granted, and remain stuck to your past, you miss. Change means adjustment of your time, resources, schedules and hard work
Following/copying other peoples seasons and times. Except seasons and changes that affect everyone universally, God has a season for everyone. When you do things because others are doing, you miss your own, because God has different guidance and instructions for each one.
Dwelling on the past. It’s gone and you can’t get it back. Whether it was good or bad, leave it behind and move on with the new seasons. (Isaiah 43:18-19, Deut 1:6). Move with the cloud as the people of Israel were required to do (Numbers 9:15-23)

Conclusion:

What could be the seasons in your life, family, work, career, walk with God, etc?

Are you where you should be, or not? What could have happened that you are not progressing?

Is there something you need to change and do differently? Be determined and do it. Start now. Find an accountability partner to help keep you on track

Do you feel you lost an opportunity in the past and it haunts you? God forgives and restores and does new things. Leave the past behind and move on with God.

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: March 17, 2019

TOPIC: Self Examination for a steadfast walk with God

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Psalm 26:2, 139:23-24, Lamentation 3:40, Eph 4:17-32,5:15

2 Corinthians 13:5 “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?”

What the Christian life means:

You are a new creation, born again into a new God nature (2 Corinthians 5:17)
You have Jesus as the Lord of your life (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
You have taken up the cross(symbolising suffering and death to self) and followed Him (Luke 9:23, 14;27, Colossians 3:5)
You now have a new heavenly citizenship in the kingdom of God (

Why the call to self examination and careful living?

Because it is possible to fall from the faith if careless (1 Cor 9:27, 10:10, Heb 4:11, 6:4-6)
Not to fall into temptations which are ever around us (Mark 14:38)
So as to remain strong and to stand to the end in the faith (Luke 21:36)
There is a skilful deceptive enemy, looking for whom to devour (1 Peter 5:8, Eph 4:14, Matt 4:1-10)
There is deception/falsehoods all around us through false prophets/teachers (Matt 24:4, 1 John 4:1)
Because there is accountability ahead for the responsibility we have from God (Rom 14:12, Matt 25:14-30)
So as to contend for the faith against forces that would destroy it (Phil 2:12-13, Jude 24)
Because God deals with serious committed people (Deuteronomy 4:29, Jeremiah 29:13, Isaiah 55:6)
It enables us to have a good testimony to the watching world (Matt 5:16)
Because we are mentoring others looking up to us
So as not to run in vain if not careful (1 Cor 9:24-27, 2 Tim 2:5)
So as not to miss the coming of the Lord (Luke 21:31-36)

How do we examine ourselves? Guiding questions to ask yourself

Do i honour, obey and tremble at God’s word or take it lightly/causally? (Jer 5:22-24)
Do i have the commitment to obey God at all costs, or other things take over? (1 Sam 15:22)
Do i seek God’s will/counsel in all i do, or other things take over? (Psalm 119:11, Rom 12:2, Matt 26:42)
Do i have a regular healthy devotional life in prayer, reading the Bible, fellowship or Christian witness to others?
How do i use my resources – time, money, energy, knowledge, wealth – for God’s glory or only for my pleasure and evil things?
Am i living a disciplined, balanced and principled life or i have compromised in some areas?
Do my thoughts, words, actions glorify God?
Is my heart steadfast with God or am i meddling with the affairs of the world?

Each of these questions honestly and frankly answered will give you a clear stand of where you are with God. The Holy Spirit will illuminate and show you areas for improvement, to repent of, as He did with the seven churches in the book of Revelation. That’s what will keep you on track with God. Respond as He leads you!

God bless you!

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 3^rd February 2019

TOPIC: Raising and maintaining family altars

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Introduction:

What is an altar? “A raised place on which sacrifices and gifts are offered in some religions. A platform or table used as a centre of worship in Christian ceremonies and services” Merriam-Webster dictionary

The Hebrew word for altar is mizbe’ah, from a word meaning ‘to slay’, any structure of earth (Ex. 20:24) or unwrought stone (20:25) on which sacrifices were offered. Altars were generally erected in conspicuous places (Gen. 22:9; Ezek. 6:3; 2 Kings 23:12; 16:4; 23:8; Acts 14:13). The word is used in Heb. 13:10 for the sacrifice offered upon it–the sacrifice Christ offered. (Easton’s 1867 Bible dictionary)

Key words from these definitions:

An altar was set up in a designated place
Sacrifices and gifts were offered on the altar
Worship was carried out on the altar
There should be regular appearance in altars
Place of surrender to a deity, a God

An altar then, is a place of worship, devotion, communion, sacrifice and offering to God, for covenant establishment and renewal. In the Old Testament, material gifts and animal sacrifices were offered on altars.

Current sacrifices we offer to God include praise, worship, our lives (Rom 12:1, Psalm 107:22)

Great men of the Bible established altars wherever they went. The first altar was by Noah (Gen. 8:20), Abraham (Gen. 12:7; 13:4; 22:9), by Isaac (Gen. 26:25), by Jacob (33:20; 35:1, 3), and by Moses (Ex. 17:15, “Jehovah-nissi”).

In the Temple were altars where people went to sacrifice and worship. There were also other altars in different places for the worship of other gods which God detested

The Lord would require His people to regularly go to designated places to worship and offer sacrifices.

But with the death of Christ in Golgotha, the greatest of all altars, its now about worship in truth and spirit wherever we are (John 4:21-24)

We can designate our homes, offices, gardens etc as places of worshipping the Lord. Now its about how we worship, not from where we worship that matters as Jesus stated.

Everyone who wields some power and authority operates from some altar for spiritual backing

The Power of altars: How altars work

Altars connect you to the spirit world. The spirit world controls the physical. Until you are truly in-charge in the spirit, you fail miserably in the physical
Altars welcome God to take His place in your life, family, children, projects, the present and future as you dedicate and surrender them to God
God appears. Altars are places of meeting/encounter with God and the spirit world
God’s altar, effectively serviced, affects all other altars in the area. Makes you take charge of affairs in the spiritual environment. If it is weak, other demonic altars being serviced effectively by their agents around you can influence you the child of God. The stronger altar always takes the day
Enhances communion. Becomes a point of contact with God. Encourages ability and sensitivity to hear God. You build strong relationship with God through altars
Establishes you and your loved ones in the faith for generations to come
Brings breakthroughs you can’t imagine. Makes you powerful over all other forces controlling affairs around.
You go out of it in power and glory of the Lord, to face giants with God’s backing. Ushers you out in great power and authority. Jesus often went to Mt Olives to pray and commune with the Father.

How to raise and service an altar:

Designate a place and regular times
Make regular appearance there by yourself or with others (Leviticus 6:9)
Appear with humility and honor to God (Psalm 51: 17)
Offer praise and worship to God (Psalm 107:22, 116:17)
Offer prayers and intercession (incense – Rev 5:8, 8:3-4, Psalm 141:2)
Read and share the word of God. Fellowship
Speak and listen to God. Develop deep communion with God

An altar can be defiled. When this happens, gives room to counterfeit spirits. It weakens the power and influence of the altar. How is it defiled?

By entertaining and practicing sin within yourself or with others (Proverbs 15:8)
Substituting Gods word and commands for other things – lighting strange fire (Lev 10:1, Ex 30:9)
Not honoring God – offering a strange fire before the LORD
Strife, divisions, and things that affect genuine fellowship

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: January 6, 2019

TOPIC: Rooted and Established in the Faith

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key scriptures: Matt 7:21-27

Introduction: The theme of 2019: Rooted and Established in Christ.

Colossians 2:6-7 “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” KJV

Introduction:

The Colossian church faced a lot of heretic teachings which threatened drifting them from the faith. Paul wrote this letter to address and counter these false teachings in the church in Colossae
Before we came to Christ, we were part of the system of the world with its beliefs and principles. But God translated us from the kingdom of darkness into light.
When we come to Christ, we come along with some of these beliefs which need to be undone by the gospel we receive
Like the church in Colossae, we too face storms of life, heretic teachings, philosophies of men, fine sounding arguments, seeking to add somethings to Christ and His finished work for better salvation (Matt 7:21-27,Col 2:4,8).
Our safety then in the faith, is in being rooted and established in Christ, finding our full sufficiency in Him and the teachings we received
As an example, give comparison of the root system between a desert and a rain forest tree for illustration purposes

What is the Faith?

The faith is the gospel we have believed, centred on Jesus the Saviour, the word of God guiding our every step, influencing our entire belief system, behaviour and lifestyles

What being rooted and established means:

Fully knowing whom you have believed, an unshakeable firm knowledge of Him
Knowing what you stand for, what you have believed, the eternal truth of God’s word
Withstanding whatever resists or fights your faith on the basis of the knowledge acquired, contending for the faith
Continuing to live in Christ (Col 1:23,2:6), not a one day thing. Its a lifelong process and commitment, remaining steadfast, holding on to it

Why do we need to get rooted and established in the faith?

It is not for nothing that we are encouraged to be rooted and established in the faith. The reasons are that;

Storms of life will come. Of this we can be sure. Tough times will come, the winds will blow, floods come, etc. They should find us firm (Matt 7:24-28)
Possible to fall away from the faith, the flesh can lead astray if we are not careful to guard what has been entrusted to us (1 Cor 9:27, 1 Cor 10:10, Heb 4:11, 6:4-6)
To stand in the faith against all schemes of the evil one (Lk 21:36)
There is an enemy; skilful, cunning, deceptive, roaring around seeking whom to devour (1 Peter 5:8, Eph 4:14, Matt 4:1-10). If he finds you shaky, he outwits you
There is deception/falsehood around us. Heresies and human philosophies exist and can sway many away from the right path (Matt 24:4, 1John 4:1)
Not to fall into temptation which are always there(Mark 14:38)
Responsibility requires accountability. We shall account one day (Rom 14:12, Matt 25:14-30)
The need to contend for the faith, and work out our salvation (Phil 2:12-13, Jude 1:3)
God deals with serious people (Deut 4:29, Isaiah 55:6, Jer 29:13)
For a testimony to the unbelieving world. Our standing encourages others (Matt 5:16)
To run according to the rules, to win the prize, not run in vain (1 Cor 9:24-27, 2 Tim 2:5,
Not to miss the coming of the Lord (Lk 21:34-36, Matt 25:13, 24:42-44,

What commitments do you make this year to be rooted and established in the faith?

Being rooted and established in the faith doesn’t come in a silver plate. It requires our commitment. Here are some suggestions to enhance the process;

Regular times and seasons of prayer and fasting (participate in joint prayers and set personal ones)
Daily bible reading and study
Fellowship of brethren
Family devotion
Involvement in serving God. Find something to do
Reach out to others to bring them to Jesus

God bless you.

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 4^th November 2018

Topic: Temptations and Trials: Key lessons from Jesus’ life

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key Scriptures: Matt 4:1_11 Luke 4:1-12 Heb 2:18, 4:15, James 1:12-15

Introduction;

What is temptation? To tempt is to persuade or try to persuade somebody to do something, especially wrong or unwise [Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary (OALD)]

What is a trial/test? To test somebody/something is to find out whether somebody or something has the required qualities (OALD). It’s about proofing their character, reliability, truth.

Trial is an act or process of testing the ability, quality, performance of something or somebody, especially before a final decision (OALD).

God cannot tempt. He tries/tests us. Satan tempts because he wants people to sin against God and against each other

Trials and temptations will surely come. But we are guaranteed victory

That’s why we should count it joy when tried. Our true worth is being determined (James 1:2-4)

While being tried, temptations may also come along – to be angry, bitter, give up, and backslide, to respond the wrong way

Jesus was thus tempted by the devil because he wanted Jesus to fall into sin

Jesus was tempted in every way we are, but no sin was found in Him (Heb 4:15)

Jesus was LED by the Spirit to the desert where He was TEMPTED by the devil (Matt 4:1)

Whatever temptation and trial we go through, or will go through, Jesus went thru it. Think about any temptation and trial…

Categories and Sources of Temptations

Pressure of needs – Jesus was hungry, was tempted on food (Matt 4:3)

Lesson: Normal human appetites for food, sexual fulfilment, love, acceptance, security, etc can be a source of temptation to have them met in wrong ways.

Seeking worldly glory, pleasure, power and authority – the quest for worship (Matt 4:9)

Lesson: God bestows true glory, power, authority and pleasure of enjoyment in life. Satan offers counterfeit at the cost of your soul.

Seeking to proof yourself – If you are the son of God… (Matt 4:6)

Lesson: you don’t need further proof or demonstration of who you already are, what God has made you to be already in Christ. The devil seeks to challenge your sonship to God with those ‘ifs’. If taken in, it creates doubt and you yield to his temptations

Misuse of scriptures – the devil quotes Psalm 91:11-12 (Matt 4:6)

Lesson: the devil knows scriptures as well. He incites people to use scripture to justify what is wrong or outside the will of God. Don’t force the Bible say what it didn’t really say. That is testing God. The scriptures need to be applied with wisdom, and for God’s glory and purposes alone

Evil desire resident in a person, attractions of sin (Gen 3:1,6, Gal 5:19-21, James 1:14)

Lesson: unless the flesh with its desires pushed by the devil are controlled, they lead to falling into temptations and sin (1 Cor 9:27)

Greed for money and material things – (Matt 4:9, 1Tim 6:6-10)

Lesson: learn to be content with what you have, seek more in ways that honour God. Don’t set your heart on wealth even when it increases (Psalm 62:10)

Enticers and Evil associations – Josh 23:12-13, Psalm 1:1, Proverbs 1:10,

Lesson: seek the company and association of those who will provoke you into good

The best out of trials and temptations – James 1:2-4, 12

Out of even the worst of trials and temptations we face, there is always something good out of them. Here are some of them:

Develops perseverance, making us mature and complete in God
Receive the crown of life God promised (Rev 2:10)
We live the Christ kind of life (Heb 12:5-11)
You go out in power and victory for effective ministry (Luke 4:14)
You always become better,stronger in God

How to withstand trials and temptations

His we approach trials and temptations, determines our victory or defeat. Our victory against Satan and the world was already given by Christ. Our part is to follow what the Bible teaches.

Resist the devil using the word of God (Matt 4:4,7,10, 1 Peter 5:9)
Understand the trial is temporary, for your good (Job 13:5, Rom 8:28, 2 Cor 4:17)
Fix your eyes on the author and finisher of your faith, Jesus, Who endured and overcame. (Heb 12:2-3)
Be content in God, seek to bring Him glory in all you do (1Tim 6:6-10)
Pray that you may not fall into temptation (Mark 14:38)
Be in the company/fellowship of people who will pray with you, encourage you, correct you. (Heb 10:24-25)
Understand and watch out against the true enemy, the devil behind all these things (1 Peter 5:8-9). Resist the enemy
Build your relationship and knowledge of God – through the devotional life. Example of early church through fellowship, prayer, the word, preaching, breaking bread, (Acts 2:42)
Be accountable to someone. Isolation and being secretive are strategies of the enemy to hit you hard (Gal 6:1-2)
Even after every victory over trials and temptations, know that the devil will try again …he left Jesus for a while till an opportune time (Luke 4:13). Need constant awareness

Conclusion:

Trials and temptations will surely come to everyone of us. But victory is certain

We have a high priest who went through it all and is able to sympathise with us

You are Never alone in those times. You can stand in the Lord through them all

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GRACE AND GLORY MINISTRIES

Sunday Sermon Notes

Date: 25th Feb 2018

TOPIC: The Power of Prayer and Fasting

By: Pastor Aggrey Soyekwo Mashandich

Key scriptures: Acts 2:42, Luke 4:1-14, Matt 6:16-18,

Introduction:

What is fasting?

Fasting is abstaining from food and/or drinks for spiritual purposes, for specific periods of time.
Prayer and fasting is one of the spiritual disciplines for growth in the Christian faith.
Not easy, but with determination and the Lord’s help, you grow into it. Devil hates you to fast, because he is scared of the results
Fasting is a biblical principle, both in the Old and New Testaments
Every man or woman who has ever mightily been used by God lived fasted lives. This means there some tremendous power in it.
Fasting is also practiced in other religions by their devotees to strengthen their faith, even occultists
Man is a spirit, with a soul living in a body. The battle between body and spirit is won by the stronger. This is the reason why some believers still manifest the works of the flesh because they have not subdued the body
Fasting concentrates much growth in the spirit man, when the body is weak. Fasting subdues the flesh and makes the spirit man stronger
Several dangers abound when the flesh is over fed. This include manifesting the works of the flesh, being carnally minded and controlled, becoming a spiritual dwarf, never fully able to experience God, etc.

What is the purpose of fasting?

In response to the leading of the Spirit (Luke 4:1-2)
In preparation for a successful ministry that stands the test of time
In response to a burden from the Lord (Nehemiah 1:4)
To know God better and deeply, for deeper communion with God, draw close to God
To seek God’s intervention in our affairs, endeavors, and for others (2 Chronicles 20:1-14, Esther 4:3,16)
To bring repentance of sin, a form of humility, mourning and to consecrate our lives to God again (1 Samuel 7:6, Nehemiah 9:1-2, Daniel 9:1-19, Matthew 5:4)
Seek God’s will and direction over major decisions and difficult matters in life (Jesus, Moses did it as they sought God’s guidance )
As a means of consecration to the Lord and into His service (commissioning) (Luke 4:1-2, Acts 14:23)
To experience more of Gods power, allow God manifest unhindered in and through our lives(Luke 4:14)
For self affliction, humility, to subdue the flesh and enable the spirit man grow and prevail (Psalm 35:13, 1 Cor 9:27, Gal 5:16-17)
Deal with forces of darkness which can’t go by prayer alone (Matt 17:21)
To honour the Lord. Jesus taught and practiced fasting. As we do it in response to His leading, we honor Him

When to fast

Regularly on scheduled seasons and times as a discipline e.g weekly, monthly, etc

As and when the Lord leads you to fast outside scheduled times and seasons

Types of fasting

Partial fast – when you skip certain meals of the day, eat no pleasant bread i.e taking basics just to keep basic body functions (Dan 10:3)

Complete fast – no food or drink. However, it is not recommended that you do without water for more than 3 days, unless under clear instruction from God. Exceptional cases were Moses, Jesus.

Individual fast – one person carrying out the fast

Corporate/group fast – more than person fasting for a common purpose. From a few people in a group to national level

The right way to fast

For maximum benefits, fasting should be entered with adequate preparation. Regardless of the time period, if fasting is entered in the right way, the benefits are tremendous and results will be evident. These suggestions can guide effective fasting:

Prepare mentally(tune your mind to it), socially(alert close people around you) and spiritually (pray about it before you start)
Check your reasons/motives for fasting. This guides focus and direction
Purpose to honor God, not for a show or to outcompete others and to be praised (Matt 6:16-18)
Identify, and repent of any sin or hindrance. Israel fasted while living in sin (Isaiah 58:1-7) e.g fights, quarrels, bitterness, unforgiveness, pretense, disobedience, oppression, cheating, unkindness, selfishness, greed, gossip, etc . God said their voice and fast could not be recognized. Practice justice and righteousness
Spend time in prayer and the word (reading and meditating) during the fast to enhance the effects, tunes you to the spirit realm
As much as is possible, be in isolation, out of the noises and routines of life, for maximum concentration
Ascertain the time period in advance, unless the Lord leads differently
Eat properly before and after the fast, drink water, take fresh juices, eat mainly vegetables
Avoid much physical labor during long fasts. Drink plenty of warm water in long fasts. It helps to flush out toxins and cleanse the body system
Break fasts (especially long ones) gradually for body systems to adjust
Check conditions of your health which may not allow fasting. Consult your doctor where necessary

Warning:

When a fast is entered and carried out wrongly, it opens up the person to demonic forces. The end result is the person swayed into demonic spheres with disastrous effects like false visions, messages, teachings, etc

Spiritual and physical benefits of fasting (Isaiah 58:8-12)

Fasting benefits us in all ways when properly entered and observed.

Walk in righteousness and holiness. The flesh is subdued, the spirit strengthened.
You pray powerful and effective prayers, however short (James 5:16-18)
You walk in the power of God(Luke 4:14). Live and operate in the supernatural. Live a victorious life
Increases faith, boldness and courage, breaks barrier of doubt which comes through the flesh
Nothing truly becomes impossible, no feeling helplessness (Luke 1:37, Mark 9:23)
High sensitivity/discernment in the spirit. Hear God easily. Carry the Lord’s burdens, feel what is in His heart, discern seasons and times
Continued divine revelations and guidance in everything you do. No walking in darkness. Nothing takes you by surprise
Become a continued source of inspiration and blessing to others
Filled with, experience and reflect the glory of God – (Ex 34:29-35)
Walk in very powerful and effective ministry/calling. Deep working of the Holy Spirit. Sharpened ministry
Your work endures the test of time. Relay the right foundations of many generations to come
Become a channel of healing, restoration and revival
Enables our manifestation as sons of God, and the exercise of our authority as sons
Become more and more like Jesus, established in the faith. Transformed into His likeness, flesh dies, as you put on Jesus (Col 3:14)
You have perfect flourishing health, long life (renewal of your youth, strong bones, etc). Hardly fall sick after
Breaking of chains of habits and addictions (Matt 17:21, Acts 10:38)
Improves cognitive abilities, improves sleep, reduces weight, improves blood flow, smoothes the skin, and all other organs of the body
Controls emotions, improves relations with others

Recommended book: Atomic power through fasting. By Franklin Hall

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