Linked UP Church
Grow in Virtue (10-15-2017)
We all were created to live a fulfilling life that brings glory to God. At Linked UP Church, our Vision is to Connect people to God, Family, Purpose, and Community.
Locations & Times
Marietta Campus
1171 Whitlock Ave NW, Marietta, GA 30064, USA
Sunday 9:00 AM
Sunday 11:00 AM
Watch or Listen to Today's Message
http://linkedupchurch.com/sermons-2/Live Stream of Today's Service
http://linkedupchurch.churchonline.org/Pastor Joel E. Gregory
Grow in Virtue
Grow in Virtue
INTRODUCTION:
1. Growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ requires developing a Christ-like character.
2. Involving eight graces in conjunction with each other. 2 Peter 1:5-8 (NKJV)
3. Involving all diligence to abound in these eight graces. 2 Peter 1:5, 8 (NKJV)
4. We saw that this “spiritual construction project” begins with faith.
5. For without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)
6. For faith is the catalyst making it possible to grow. Mark 9:23 (NKJV)
7. Developing a Christ-like character does not occur by “faith only.”
8. To faith we must add virtue.
9. The word “add” (epichoregeo) indicates that these two must work together.
*So upon the foundation of faith, to grow in the knowledge of Jesus requires that we add the quality of virtue.
1. Growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ requires developing a Christ-like character.
2. Involving eight graces in conjunction with each other. 2 Peter 1:5-8 (NKJV)
3. Involving all diligence to abound in these eight graces. 2 Peter 1:5, 8 (NKJV)
4. We saw that this “spiritual construction project” begins with faith.
5. For without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)
6. For faith is the catalyst making it possible to grow. Mark 9:23 (NKJV)
7. Developing a Christ-like character does not occur by “faith only.”
8. To faith we must add virtue.
9. The word “add” (epichoregeo) indicates that these two must work together.
*So upon the foundation of faith, to grow in the knowledge of Jesus requires that we add the quality of virtue.
1. IT’S RARELY USED IN THE NEW TESTAMENT.
A. Paul uses it once: “...if there is any virtue” Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
B. Peter uses it four times: 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 1:3,5 (NKJV)
C. It has been variously translated in our text as:
~ “goodness” (NIV)
~ “moral excellence” (NASB)
D. It has been variously explained as:
~ “excellence” (Wycliffe)
~ “manly excellence” (JFB)
~ “courage, fortitude, vigor, energy” (Clarke, Barnes)
A. Paul uses it once: “...if there is any virtue” Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
B. Peter uses it four times: 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 1:3,5 (NKJV)
C. It has been variously translated in our text as:
~ “goodness” (NIV)
~ “moral excellence” (NASB)
D. It has been variously explained as:
~ “excellence” (Wycliffe)
~ “manly excellence” (JFB)
~ “courage, fortitude, vigor, energy” (Clarke, Barnes)
2. THE GREEK WORD IS ARETE.
A. A. T. Robertson says that it is an “old word for any preeminence (moral, intellectual, military).
B. The Greeks used the word:
1. To describe “any mental excellence or moral quality or physical power.” (Robertson)
2. To represent a concept of “excellence” in all phases of life, to which they strove to attain (mental, moral, physical).
A. A. T. Robertson says that it is an “old word for any preeminence (moral, intellectual, military).
B. The Greeks used the word:
1. To describe “any mental excellence or moral quality or physical power.” (Robertson)
2. To represent a concept of “excellence” in all phases of life, to which they strove to attain (mental, moral, physical).
3. OUR BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF “VIRTUE.”
A. It has the connotation of excellence, striving for moral perfection.
B. The connection of virtue with faith:
1. We begin with faith (confidence and trust in God and Christ).
2. We must add the quality of virtue (the desire to excel and be strong in our faith).
*Virtue is the quality of striving for excellence in our faith-based relationship with God and Jesus Christ. That such a quality is necessary to grow in the knowledge of Jesus should be evident.
A. It has the connotation of excellence, striving for moral perfection.
B. The connection of virtue with faith:
1. We begin with faith (confidence and trust in God and Christ).
2. We must add the quality of virtue (the desire to excel and be strong in our faith).
*Virtue is the quality of striving for excellence in our faith-based relationship with God and Jesus Christ. That such a quality is necessary to grow in the knowledge of Jesus should be evident.
4. OUR SPIRITUAL LIFE DEMANDS VIRTUE.
A. Without virtue, faith soon dies. James 2:26 (NKJV)
B. When faith is joined by virtue, our faith will be a dynamic because we’ll want to be excellent in our service to God.
C. Growing in the knowledge of Jesus requires:
1. “Give all diligence.” 2 Peter 1:5,10 (NKJV)
2. That we “abound” in these graces. 2 Peter 1:8 (NKJV)
3. When faith is joined by virtue (striving for excellence becomes the goal)
~ Diligent effort will be made.
~ Abounding in these graces will be the goal of our faith.
A. Without virtue, faith soon dies. James 2:26 (NKJV)
B. When faith is joined by virtue, our faith will be a dynamic because we’ll want to be excellent in our service to God.
C. Growing in the knowledge of Jesus requires:
1. “Give all diligence.” 2 Peter 1:5,10 (NKJV)
2. That we “abound” in these graces. 2 Peter 1:8 (NKJV)
3. When faith is joined by virtue (striving for excellence becomes the goal)
~ Diligent effort will be made.
~ Abounding in these graces will be the goal of our faith.
5. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE WORD VIRTUE.
A. The purpose or design of the Word is to make us perfect. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV).
B. Give ourselves to reading and meditating upon it. Psalms 1:1-3 (NKJV)
C. We shall grow in wisdom and understanding. Psalms 119:97-99 (NKJV)
D. We are encouraged to think upon anything which contains virtue. Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
A. The purpose or design of the Word is to make us perfect. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV).
B. Give ourselves to reading and meditating upon it. Psalms 1:1-3 (NKJV)
C. We shall grow in wisdom and understanding. Psalms 119:97-99 (NKJV)
D. We are encouraged to think upon anything which contains virtue. Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
6. THE VALUE OF A BIBLICAL EXAMPLE.
A. We are also encouraged to emulate Paul. Philippians 4:9 (NKJV)
B. He described and displayed his own striving for excellence. Philippians 3:12-14 (NKJV)
A. We are also encouraged to emulate Paul. Philippians 4:9 (NKJV)
B. He described and displayed his own striving for excellence. Philippians 3:12-14 (NKJV)
*Develop this “mindset” and you will have developed the “arete” (virtue) our faith needs to grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ!
7. VIRTUE MUST BE DEVELOPED IN OUR PERSONAL LIVES.
A. Does our daily walk with God suggest we are striving for excellence?
B. Are we seeking to excel in our relationship with God?
C. Do we read His Word daily (listening to Him)?
D. Do we pray without ceasing (talking to Him)?
E. Are we seeking to excel in our service to God?
F. Are we determining and developing our talents?
G. Are we using those abilities in service to God and others?
A. Does our daily walk with God suggest we are striving for excellence?
B. Are we seeking to excel in our relationship with God?
C. Do we read His Word daily (listening to Him)?
D. Do we pray without ceasing (talking to Him)?
E. Are we seeking to excel in our service to God?
F. Are we determining and developing our talents?
G. Are we using those abilities in service to God and others?
If we have added virtue to our personal walk of faith, our progress will be evident to others. 1 Timothy 4:12-16.
CONCLUSION:
The Christian who adds virtue to their faith does not remain static. He or she will not be content with their current level of faith and service. Like Paul, they will desire to press on because they are striving for excellence.
When a Christian adds virtue to their faith, they are more likely to add other qualities to their faith. They’ll also desire to add knowledge, self-control, etc.
The end result is that they are striving for excellence!
To grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, let us seek to add to our faith the quality of virtue!
The Christian who adds virtue to their faith does not remain static. He or she will not be content with their current level of faith and service. Like Paul, they will desire to press on because they are striving for excellence.
When a Christian adds virtue to their faith, they are more likely to add other qualities to their faith. They’ll also desire to add knowledge, self-control, etc.
The end result is that they are striving for excellence!
To grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, let us seek to add to our faith the quality of virtue!
Connect to Community Through Service this Holiday Season
We have exciting service opportunities during the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays (November 10th - December 25th). If you would like to lead a service project, there will be a brief informational meeting next Sunday, October 22nd at 10:30am. For more information email info@linkedupchurch.com.
https://linkedup.infellowship.com/GroupSearch/Show?zipcode=&category=21625&weekday=&start_time=How Do I Join A Linked UP Dream Team?
1. Fill out a Dream Team Leadership Application and Honor Code.
2. Observe the Dream Team you would like to serve on.
3. Follow up with a ministry leader for your next steps.
http://linkedupchurch.com/connect/dream-team/2. Observe the Dream Team you would like to serve on.
3. Follow up with a ministry leader for your next steps.
How Do I Get Connected with a Small Group?
1. Find a group.~ Find a group by contacting the church office, visiting our website (www.linkedupchurch.com) or emailing smallgroups@linkedupchurch.com.~ Contact the leader.~ If you desire to lead a group, attend Small Group Leader Orientation and get equipped to lead a group that you are passionate about.2. Commit for a Semester at a time.~ New groups start three semesters each year: Spring (January-April), Summer (June-July), and Fall (September-December). Most groups are open to new members throughout the semester.3. Experience a life change.~ You'll never fully experience all that Linked UP Church has to offer until you connect in a small group! Small groups were vital to the first century church's growth and they are just as vital now.*Life is not meant to be lived alone. You were created to experience life with other people. Groups come in all shapes and sizes that fit your interests in life. Find a group that fits you or start one on your own.
http://linkedupchurch.com/smallgroups/Linked UP Church Connection Card
Are You Ready to take your Next Steps?Whether you desire prayer or would like a member of our team to contact you about taking the next steps in your spiritual journey, we are here for you.
http://bit.ly/lucconnectcard#Vision4Ward
The Vision of Linked UP Church is to reach people with the message of Jesus Christ by connecting them to God, Family, Purpose, Workplace and the Community. The purpose of #Vision4Ward is to present to you an opportunity to help us move the Vision Forward as we rebuild our new church facility, debt-free. This offering enables us to take a giant leap forward in fulfilling the big opportunities God has placed before us.
http://linkedupchurch.com/vision4ward/Online Giving
http://www.linkedupchurch.com/donationsYouth Ministry Thought for The Week
You're not yourself when your spirit is starving from the word of God and you feast on everything else (Social Media, TV, Texting, Netflix, Sports, Facetime) instead of the Living Word. If your Spirit is Malnourished how can you manifest Christ?
For more information please contact Min. Nehemiah Ray (nray@linkedupchurch.com).
For more information please contact Min. Nehemiah Ray (nray@linkedupchurch.com).
Children's Ministry Lesson
Hello Parents,
This School Year, Enjoy connecting with your children!
-Short opening prayer
-Praise and worship (2 of their favorites)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMv3-gEONy0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pD2zIuiC2g
-Books of the Bible rap
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uT_yEowtcgY
-Family Devotional (attached)
-Closing prayer
For more information please contact Min. Carol Houston (chouston@linkedupchurch.com).
This School Year, Enjoy connecting with your children!
-Short opening prayer
-Praise and worship (2 of their favorites)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMv3-gEONy0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pD2zIuiC2g
-Books of the Bible rap
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uT_yEowtcgY
-Family Devotional (attached)
-Closing prayer
For more information please contact Min. Carol Houston (chouston@linkedupchurch.com).
Nursery Notes
Download this week's Nursery Lesson to go over as a family. For more information please contact Tonette Price (tprice@linkedupchurch.com).
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/qf0f3aqgowt74kw/AACNqr1r0KCYKYsCtcSKgDWQa?dl=0Interested in Leading A Small Group?
The best way to experience a small group is to start one of your own. It’s simple! Just grab two friends, find a place to meet, and you’re good to go! Ready to dive in? Small Group Leader Orientation is your Next Step. Orientation will be held: during Step 4 at 10:30am. Would you like more information on leading a small group? Email smallgroups@linkedupchurch.com.
http://www.linkedupchurch.com/smallgroupsJohn Maxwell's EQUIP: Essentials to Success (FREE 6-Week Course)
What are we going to do for the people who will never come to church? Before we can share Christ with others, we must first add value to them. During this 6-week course, John Maxwell shares areas of personal growth that can help you become more successful in all areas of life and more effective in reaching the lost.
This course will meet on Saturdays (October 7th – November 11th) from10:00am-12:00pm. The is no cost but you must register to attend.
For more details or to register, please visit Linkedupchurch.com or stop by the Hotspot Table after service. Registration ends on October 6th.
https://linkedup.infellowship.com/GroupSearch/Show?zipcode=&category=21549&btn=SearchThis course will meet on Saturdays (October 7th – November 11th) from10:00am-12:00pm. The is no cost but you must register to attend.
For more details or to register, please visit Linkedupchurch.com or stop by the Hotspot Table after service. Registration ends on October 6th.
Entrepreneurial Bootcamp (Free Workshop)
Are you a Small Business Owner or looking to start a business? Entrepreneurial Bootcamp is a FREE Workshop/Seminar for our Linked UP Church Members geared to helping Small Businesses Launch and Break their plateaus.
Join us on Sat., October 28th from 9:00am to 3:30pm at LUC Main Office Location Campus.
For more details or to register, please visit (https://linkedup.infellowship.com/UserLogin/Index?ReturnUrl=%2fForms%2f374902) or stop by the Hotspot Table after service. Registration ends on October 25th.
Join us on Sat., October 28th from 9:00am to 3:30pm at LUC Main Office Location Campus.
For more details or to register, please visit (https://linkedup.infellowship.com/UserLogin/Index?ReturnUrl=%2fForms%2f374902) or stop by the Hotspot Table after service. Registration ends on October 25th.
Weekly Announcements - Next Steps (Step 3 Today)
Next Steps
We want to help you realize what makes you so unique. This class will help you discover your personality, gifts, and purpose in life that will allow you to see how God combines them for the best fit in the Body of Christ. This step takes place on the third Sunday of every month.
Connect4: Next Steps (formerly known as Connect Classes) are now offered every 1st-4th Sundays from 10:30am-11:15am at the Marietta Campus.
We want to help you realize what makes you so unique. This class will help you discover your personality, gifts, and purpose in life that will allow you to see how God combines them for the best fit in the Body of Christ. This step takes place on the third Sunday of every month.
Connect4: Next Steps (formerly known as Connect Classes) are now offered every 1st-4th Sundays from 10:30am-11:15am at the Marietta Campus.
Linked UP Prayer Journal
Electronic copy of the Linked UP Prayer Journal. Feel free to download, read and share at your leisure. There is also information about different types of prayers and fasting guidelines.
http://bit.ly/linkedupprayerguide17