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2022 – 2023 SEASON ENDING BREAKFAST Summer Study Groups
As many of us prepare to head out of the Coachella Valley toward our summer homes and the balance of us to brace for the sizzling summer temperatures, this can be a time of isolation. To avoid this, you can act proactively to maintain regular contact with one or more of your Desert Springs’ brothers. At church we call this a study group. We encourage you to maintain your weekly discipline of group study of the Word. One easy way to do this is by using the studies provided on RightNowMedia.com. If you don’t have a login yet simply click the Sign Up link above. If you’re having trouble logging in or you want our members contact information, just contact Larry Hilton. See you next season! | Watch Video
2022 – 2023 SEASON WRAP-UP SESSION – “GRAFTED IN” Jewish Culture and Its Journey to the Messiah, Yeshua (Jesus)
This season we have focused on Israel and its people. We have studied both “Israel’s Mission” and “In the Dust of the Rabbi” by Ray Vander Laan. We have reviewed and studied extensively the places that Jesus went and the Message He delivered.
We reviewed the importance of Jews and Gentiles and their own timelines in God’s plan. Gentiles have a special role in HIS plan prior to the second coming.
“For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” 1 Corinthians 12:13
In Don Finto’s “Your People Shall Be My People”, we examined the importance of Israel, the Jews and Christian church will come together in the last days.
“Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.” Ruth 1:16
Once again, Israel and her people are center stage at a crucial moment in world history, and this book shows why the Church must effect reconciliation and why our prayers are vital in this hour.
Finally, we concluded the Matt Chandler study of Psalm 119. Even the most mature believers face dark nights of the soul. However, Psalm 119 demonstrates the power of God’s Word in the lives of believers and its ability to provide a warm blanket for the soul. Wow, God has certainly led us to a closer walk with Christ as well as inspiring our men to understanding the importance of further service for HIM.
Our season concluded by further understanding the Jewish culture with Messianic worship and Jewish testimonies on how they came to accept Yeshua as their Lord and Savior. Hear testimonials from Messianic Jews, music by Tom Grande (SH’MA Yisrael) and a 2022-2023 season wrap-up by David Pond. | Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 10 – Psalm 119:169-176 – Joy from Submission
In the final installment of Matt Chandler’s 10 week study of Psalm 119, verses 169-176 are explored. Matt points out that the more we walk in the Word of God, we experience a more joy filled life; truly a gift from God. David Pond leads this final session. | Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 9 – Psalm 119:153-168
During Session 9 of Matt Chandler’s Psalm 119 study, Michael St. Clair guided us through Matt Chandler’s video and points out that the psalmist’s cries out for help and salvation outside of himself by keeping his eyes fixed on God and maintaining his awe and fear of the Lord. If you missed last week’s session you can: Download Notes | Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 8 – Psalm 119:137-152
Throughout the Old Testament, we are often given glimpses of the gospel message. Certain sections more than others foreshadow the coming of Jesus Christ and the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation to His people. This passage is a great example of that foreshadowing as David lays bare the gospel message we believe today. David Pond leads this session Download Notes | Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler
Session 7 – Psalm 119:121-136 – Being Obedient to His Commands
During Session 7, Carl Madsen guides us through Matt Chandler’s video and points out that the psalmist’s love for God’s word is not just intellectual. It is a love that is expressed in obedience. The psalmist knows that God’s word is true and that it is the best way to live. He is therefore committed to obeying it, even when it is difficult, and we are called to share His Word. Download Notes | Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 6 – Psalm 119:97-120 – Develop a Consistent Appetite for God’s Word
David Pond led Session 6 which addresses how to develop a consistent appetite for God’s Word in order to develop a right relationship with God. David used a personal example and Matt Chandler’s session video to show us how God’s Word sustains us. Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 5 – Psalm 119:65-96 – Benefits of Belonging to the Lord
During Session 5 of the Psalm 119 study, Matt Chandler points out that one of the popular modern criticisms of the Christian faith is that it is a killjoy. Many unbelievers see it as something that steals joy rather than conferring it. While some of that criticism may be merited due to the behavior of Christians from time to time, it misses the true benefits of a relationship with Jesus Christ. Steve Jaros led this informative study. Download Notes |Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 4 – Psalm 119:49-64 – The Lord is my Portion
In Session 4 of the Psalm 119 study, Matt Chandler tells us that throughout life, there will be times when we will face difficulty. During those seasons, it may even be difficult to see God in the midst of the pain. When those times come, we can find great comfort in the assured promises of God, which is where we want to focus our time. David Pond led this study. Download Notes |Watch Video
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 3 – Psalm 119:33-48 – Cause Me
Matt Chandler presents Session 3 of his Psalm 119 study, Verses 33-48 which he entitles “Cause Me” that speaks about finishing well. God’s help is needed for us to stay the course and finish well. Our prayers should reflect two ideas: (1) “cause me” to love what is good (give me an appetite for God’s Word) and (2) “cause me” to hate what is evil (my selfishness can be a source of evil). Studying God’s word positions us to do both. Ron Marinella led the discussion. Download Notes |Watch Video
On the second anniversary of his passing, Ron also paid special tribute to his friend and our brother, John Gorman, who gave his personal testimony moments before suffering fatal heart attack. Read Ron’s Tribute to John Gorman.
In the second session of the study of Psalm 119, Session 2 – Verses 17-32, Matt Chandler speaks of David’s great expectations of God and for understanding of how we achieve revival and comfort of our soul through the confession of sin. This session was led by George Murphy. If you missed this thoughtful session, download George’s notes and Watch Video.
Psalm 119 – Matt Chandler Session 1 – Psalm 119:1-16 – Blessed Life
During the opening session of the study of Psalm 119, Pastor Mark and David Pond give us their unique perspectives on the Book of Psalms. Following the overview, Al Hurt explored Session 1 of Matt Chandler’s ten-part series Psalm 119, verses 1-16. We find in verses 1-8 a description of the Blessed Life followed by verses 9-16 which describe how to live the Blessed Life. Download Al’s notes and if you missed his session,Watch Video now.
In The Dust of the Rabbi – Ray Vander Laan Session 5 – The Very Words of God
In Session 5 of Ray Vander Laan’s In the Dust of the Rabbi, The Very Words of God, we will discover what oracles were and how God viewed them. We will discuss whether or not it is possible to be a disciple of Christ while dabbling in revelations from sources other than God. Carl Madsen leads the final session’s discussion. Download Carl’s notes and if you missed his session,Watch Video now.
In The Dust of the Rabbi – Ray Vander Laan Session 4 – Living Stones
During Session 4 of the 5-part series, Dust of the Rabbi, “Living Stones,” Jim Taylor led the discussion on the significance of temples in ancient times as well as discover what a living stone is and how we can serve as living stones as described in 1 Peter 2:5, “You also are like living stones, so let yourselves be used to build a spiritual temple—to be holy priests who offer spiritual sacrifices to God. He will accept those sacrifices through Jesus Christ.” Download Jim’s notes and if you missed his session,Watch Video now.
In The Dust of the Rabbi – Ray Vander Laan Session 3 – The Presence of God – A Countercultural Community
In Part 3 of the 5-part series, Dust of the Rabbi, “The Presence of God—A Countercultural Community,” demonstrated about the fire of God’s presence and what happens when people live by the Spirit of God. Jim Prock led a session full of discussion about how best to share the Gospel (Good News). Unfortunately the session video is not available but watch Dust of the Rabbi – Part 3 and download Jim Prock’s notes.
In The Dust of the Rabbi – Ray Vander Laan Session 2 – When the Rabbi Says, “Go”
In Part 2 of the 5-part series, Dust of the Rabbi, “When the Rabbi says, ‘Go,’” you will discover how the disciples learned from Jesus and what gave the disciples the confidence and passion to be like Jesus and change the world. John Herpy leads an informative session full of table discussion. Download John’s notes and if you missed his session, Watch Video now.
In The Dust of the Rabbi – Ray Vander Laan Session 1 – When the Rabbi Says, “Come”
Pastor Jim Zeilenga opened the 5-part series, Dust of the Rabbi, with an overview of disciples and the importance of living in community to support one another. At all times we must be ready to come when the Rabbi calls. A Jewish proverb says, “Follow a Rabbi, drink in his words, and be covered with the dust of his feet.”. In Jesus’ day, disciples followed their Rabbi so closely that they would be covered with the dust kicked up by the Rabbi’s feet. Download Pastor Jim’s notes and if you missed his session, Watch Video now.
Christian Friends of Israeli Communities (CFOIC Heartland)
In an attempt to better understand the situation on the ground in Israel, we arranged to speak via Zoom with 2 members of CFIOC Heartland. This organization supports the Jewish population and expansion of communities within Judea and Samaria (The West Bank). CFIOC supports the education of Christians on the importance of a Jewish presence in the West Bank and the financial support of their health & security needs. Watch Video>>
Today’s End Times Prophecy – Ezekiel 38-39 – Phil Evans
If you have never had the pleasure to hear Phil Evans speak on prophecy, you NEED to hear today’s talk on the end times prophecy found in Ezekiel 38-39. Pastor Phil has been our retreat speaker and a support to our men’s ministry for the past many years and is part of Poimen (”Shepherd”) Ministries. You can download his PowerPoint presentation and watch this session’s lesson. Watch Video>>
THE IMPORTANCE OF ISRAEL IN BIBLE PROPHECY – Don Stewart
As part of this year’s Grafted In theme, Don Stewart, renown authority on biblical prophecy, spoke via Zoom, on “The Importance of Israel in Bible Prophecy”. Don is now a full-time missionary with GO! Ministries. His website, educatingourworld.com, provides free resources for those wanting to know what Christians believe, as well as why we believe. Currently there are 64 books on the site in PDF form (FREE), totaling about 13,000 pages of material while answering over 1,900 questions. Watch Video>>
Template for the Study and Teaching of End Times Prophecy – Ron Marinella
In The Revelation of Jesus Christ (Yeshua), we read; “Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near.” (Rev 1:3). We know there is much more to the topic than this one Book. End times is prophesied throughout the Old and New Testaments and ties in perfectly with this year’s focus of how Christians and Jews will be one under God. Ron has developed a Template for the Study and Teaching of End Times Prophecy and presented a brief “how to” use this tool.
Israel’s Mission: The Seeking Father: The Lost Son Returns
In Session 5 of Israel’s Mission, The Seeking Father: The Lost Son Returns, completes the discussion of the prodigal son parable and of the Ray Vander Laan study. In this lesson, join George Murphy as he leads discussion of Jesus’ audience and hear for yourself what He has to say about seeking the lost.
Israel’s Mission: The Lost Son: In a Far Country
In session 4, “The Lost Son: In a Far Country,” you will consider the temptations you face to live “reckless” lives and learn to understand and seek out people who choose this path. George Murphy will lead part 2 of 3 of the discussion of the prodigal son parable.
Israel’s Mission – Jesus Renews His Mission: Seeking the Lost
Sheep and shepherds were so much a part of the Biblical world, it’s no wonder Jesus uses the imagery as a metaphor in several of His teachings. The shepherds of His day knew every one of the animals in their flock by sight and spent their lives protecting and leading them to food and water. Many in Jesus’ audience for the three-part parable of the prodigal son would have been surprised to hear that a shepherd lost his sheep. In this lesson, join Jesus’ hearers in a village near Capernaum and learn from the Good Shepherd, the one who lays down His life for His sheep. Carl Madsen led the discussion.
Israel’s Mission – The First Great Commission
In session 2 of the Israel’s Mission series, Steve Jaros led a discussion on how Israel finds its mission amongst the chaos thru the message from God, delivered by Moses. Israel is God’s favored people and would remain so if they obey God and carry out His mission of doing His will and take the Gospel to the world by the way we live. Download Slides
Israel’s Mission – Abraham & Sarah and the Three Strangers
When the Israelites left Egypt and began their journey with God to the Promised Land, how much did they know of their past history? Some, like Moses’ parents, seemed to have retained a knowledge and faith in the God of their fathers, but the Bible says that many were worshipping idols. Not everyone remembered the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but He had big plans to reintroduce Himself and to continue His covenant with Abraham’s descendants. In this lesson, David Pond leads the discussion on how the Israelites discover the mission that God has for them and for His people today.Download Slides
Sondra Oster Baras gave an overview from the Three Seas Outlook, in Samaria, of the most important Biblical mountains – Mt. Gerizim, Mt. Ebal and the Oak of Moreh. She describes the Biblical journey from the days of Abraham to the return of the Jewish People to their Homeland.
Why Israel Matters – Part 3: God Is Not Done With Israel
For centuries, people have been puzzled by the nation of Israel. However, in the final installment of this 3-part series, Pastor Jeff Gill will show that Israel is God’s timepiece for the Remainder of the Times of the Gentiles — One day all Israel will be saved.Download Slides
Why Israel Matters – Part 2: Jesus – The Rabbi From Galilee
Jesus the Teacher… where did Jesus begin His ministry? Because He was a Jew, He started where the Scriptures were best known, in synagogues. Pastor Jeff Gill explores the New Testament Gospels to show what Jesus taught the Jews and where.Download Slides
Why Israel Matters – Part 1: Christ in Old Testament Prophecy
Guest speaker, Pastor Jeff Gill, presented Part 1 of his series on Why Israel Matters entitled “Christ in Old Testament Prophecy”. Pastor Gill showed that the pages of the Old Testament starting in the book of Genesis are filled with over 300 “windows” of prophecy. Through their fulfillment there is overwhelming mathematical evidence proves that Jesus Christ is the Messiah. Download Slides
Ezekiel 37:1 – Dry Bones
Al Hurt got us started off with this season’s first teachings based on this year’s theme of GRAFTED IN. His teachings were based on the Ezekiel 37:1 theme of “Dry Bones“. There is the dryness or apathy in both the unchurched and believers. Check out Al’s session and how we are called to Restore Dry Bones.
Christian Friends of Israeli Communities (CFOIC Heartland)
Today’s End Times Prophecy – Ezekiel 38-39 – Phil Evans
Template for the Study and Teaching of End Times Prophecy – Ron Marinella