God’s Servants and Caesar’s Coins: Navigating Jurisdiction and Sovereignty [Romans 13:3-4]

August 11, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 08/11/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 13:3-4 | Matthew 22:17-22

Description:  

And then Jesus said, “Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar’s; and unto God the things that are God’s.”

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans — this time gaining additional insight by exploring our passage through the lens of Matthew.

In a world where government authority often intersects with our personal faith, we’re tasked to navigate the tension between our civic duties and our ultimate allegiance to God.

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How’s that even possible??

What does it means to ‘render to Caesar,’ while at the time, recognizing the limits of earthly power?

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Notes: 

Pastor Monty’s Guidelines in Determining:

When to Pushback Against Perceived Overreach

1. Maintain respect for legitimate authorities.

2. Discern between core duties and prudential judgements.

3. Evaluate the longterm ramifications.

4. Seek counsel and Christian wisdom.

5. Weigh the testimony to the watching world.

6. Ask, “Is it worth the offense?”

7. Pray for discernment and courage.

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Divine Order vs. Beastly Rule: A Biblical Perspective on Authority [Romans 13:1-7]

August 4, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 08/04/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 13:1-7 | Revelation 13:1-10

Description:  

Romans 13. Revelation 13.

— Two chapters of the Bible containing two powerful, yet seemingly contrasting passages: Divine Order and Beastly Rule.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans and juxtaposes it with Scripture from the Bible’s final book: Revelation.

In Romans 13, believers are exhorted to submit to governing authorities, recognizing them as instituted by God to maintain order and justice.

But then in Revelation 13, we’re presented with vivid imagery of governing powers depicted as a beast waging war against the saints.

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What does all this mean??

And as Christians, what are we to make of it?

If governance in our earthly world can reflect both divine order and opposition to God — in the words of Francis Schaeffer —

“How shall we then live?”

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Living Under Covenance and Governance: God’s Blueprint for Humanity [Romans 13:6-7]

July 21, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 07/21/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 13:6-7 | Genesis 9:1-7

Description:  

Covenance and Governance

…we’re instructed to live under both.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which he begins a wide-angle exploration on the principles of authority and human responsibility — and he does this by not only looking to our current text in Romans, but also by turning back to foundational text in Genesis.

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For what we’ll find is that these two passages intersect to not only inform our understanding of authority, the establishment of government, and our role in society… but how we are to govern and steward His creation.

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Faithful Service: The Life of a Deacon [1 Timothy 3:8-13]

July 7, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 07/07/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Key Text: 1 Timothy 3:8-13

Description:  

Integrity. Dignity. And a deep faith that guides both personal conduct and ministry.

This is what Paul penned to Timothy nearly 2000 years ago as to what to look for in a deacon.

But that was a long time ago! What do these qualifications look like in modern day?

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao takes time out to remind us of this important office within the church as we install two more into service.

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In his message, he helps us understand the vital role deacons play in promoting spiritual health and effective ministry within the church. Plus, we explore how the timeless principles that apply to those in the diaconate, also apply to ALL who seek to serve faithfully and lead with integrity.

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Bret Litten (L) and Blake Bieber (R),
officially installed into the SBC Diaconate.
—July 7, 2024—

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Submitting to Authority: Obedience and Conscience [Romans 13:3-5]

June 30, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 06/30/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 13:3-5

Description:  

Avg Guy: Okay… I think I’m getting this. The first two verses in Romans 13 tell us that the reason we submit to authority is because God put them there.

SBC Host: You’re getting it.

Avg Guy: And and then in verses 3 an 4, we read that He put them there for OUR GOOD.

SBC Host: Yes.

Avg Guy: But let’s admit… there ARE instances in which they’re NOT doing things for my good — because THEY themselves are NOT good — and that puts them in direct disobedience to the One who put them in power. And when THAT happens, the *submit-to-authority-thing* does not apply. Because they are breaking the contract and don’t deserve submission or honor. Right??

SBC Host: That’s a popular interpretation. But it’s not exactly what the text means.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we confront a hot passage.

It’s a passage — especially over the past few years — that has been twisted to mean something that it doesn’t. And while there are times when civil disobedience is warranted (we’ll see that later), this is not the text to support it. But rather this is a passage of God’s command to government, and what they are to ideally subscribe to.

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  • But what happens when what they do is not ideal?
  • How, as Christians, do we work through this?
  • And how do we live in a way that honors God by respecting these those that lead… while also upholding our conscience?

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Living Under Authority: God’s Plan for Order [Romans 13:1-2]

June 23, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 06/23/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 13:1-2

Description:  

Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we are called to a sometimes challenging but crucial aspect of our faith — submitting to governing authorities.

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For these words from Paul remind us that all authority ultimately comes from God, and because of that truth, our response to earthly authorities reflects our obedience to Him.

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Love Your Enemies: A Radical Approach to Adversity [Romans 12:17-21]

June 16, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 06/16/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 12:17-21

Description:  

Repay no one evil for evil; and as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Leave vengeance in God’s hands.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we confront a passage that challenges us to rise above our natural instincts and embrace a radically different way of dealing with conflict and injustice.

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We’re reminded of the transformative power of responding to evil with good and showing kindness, even to our enemies.

It’s a power that in the face of wrongdoing, cultivates our hearts to seek peace and trust His justice.

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Transformative Love: Beyond Words to Deeds [Romans 12:9-16]

June 9, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 06/09/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 12:9-16

Description:  

Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.

…A powerful exhortation from Paul to love sincerely, to hate what is evil, and to cling to what is good. He challenges us to be devoted to one another in love, to honor others above ourselves, and to serve the Lord with zeal.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we seek God’s grace to embody these principles in our daily lives as we interact with others.

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Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.

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Think Soberly: The Call to Humility and Service [Romans 12:3-8]

June 2, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 06/02/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 12:3-8

Description:  

“A body isn’t really a body, unless there is more than one part.”

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we see Paul use the human body as a beautiful illustration to represent a healthy church

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— an illustration that emphasizes the diversity of gifts and the importance of each member functioning within their God-given role… with humility, interdependence, and active participation

…in the body of Christ.

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I Never Knew You [Matthew 7:21-29]

May 26, 2024

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Sermon Notes

Date: 05/26/2024

Preacher: David Teves, deacon

Key Text: Matthew 7:21-29

Description:

Sand or Rock?

…two types of foundations on which to build your house.

BUT ONLY ONE CAN WITHSTAND THE STORM.

Which one will you choose??

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Deacon David Teves shares that there are only two types of people in this world: those who will enter the kingdom of God, and those who will not.

In the conclusion of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warns against self-deception — for not everyone who outwardly professes Him as Lord, or who does mighty works in His name, will enter the kingdom of heaven.

You see it all depends on the FOUNDATION in which you build and live your life upon: the firm, stable, secure foundation of Christ… or the unsound, decrepit, parlous foundation of the world.

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For truly only those who are grounded on the Rock — true disciples living a life of obedience to Him — will enter.

To the others, Christ will declare:

“I never knew you.”

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Transformed by Truth: Renewing Your Mind [Romans 12:2]

May 19, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 05/19/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 12:2

Description:  

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which see Paul — in just a few words — call us to a radical transformation, urging us to break free from worldly molds and embrace a new way of thinking and living.

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But what does this transformation look like??

…And how can we renew our minds in a world that constantly pressures us to conform?

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Holy and Pleasing: Living as Worshipers [Romans 12:1]

May 5, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 05/05/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 12:1

Description:  

One verse.
         One verse will challenge.

It will challenge you to think deeply about what it means — in the most practical and profound way — to live out your faith.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we look at one verse considered to be a cornerstone of the New Testament:

Paul, urging you to present your body as a living sacrifice.

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…But what does that even mean??… and is it even possible??

By His grace this
         One verse will (also) shift.

It will shift your perspective on service, sacrifice, and the ongoing supplies given you, in the gospel of grace.

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From Mystery to Majesty: Praising God’s Unfathomable Wisdom [Romans 11:25-36]

April 28, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 04/28/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 11:25-36

Description:  

Paul has a secret.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we see the Apostle Paul revealing a profound secret:

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A time of fullness will come for both Jews and Gentiles, leading to a wider and more inclusive salvation than ever imagined.

It’s a reminder of the depths of God’s grace and the breadth of His plan…which extends far beyond human understanding or expectation.

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The Kindness and Severity of God: The Mystery of the Olive Tree [Romans 11:11-24]

April 21, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 04/21/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 11:11-24

Description:  

It’s a call to humility and warning against arrogance.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we encounter the olive tree — a vivid metaphor representing the integration of God’s people: both Jew and Gentile, united in Christ.

But it’s more than a word picture, it’s a profound discussion on the salvation of the Gentiles and their inclusion into this “tree.”

But we, the Gentile believers, are reminded not to boast against the branches (the Jewish people), but rather to consider our own place with sober judgment and gratitude.

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For it is through this passage that we see a beautiful illustration of the continuity and unity in God’s covenantal plan — showing that the gospel is indeed “to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

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Not Forsaken: The Election of a Remnant [Romans 11:1-10]

April 14, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 04/14/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 11:1-10

Description:  

Avg Guy: It’s official! God has rejected His people, Israel, in favor of the Church.

SBC Host: No. No He hasn’t. In fact, Paul is emphatic over the matter. As an Israelite himself, he is the *perfect example* of why this is absolutely NOT the case.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we see a profound, gracious continuity in God’s dealings with His people — a thread that runs from Abraham to Christ, and beyond.

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In chapter 11, the Apostle Paul introduces us to the concept of a “remnant” — Israelites chosen by God, by grace (not works) — standing as a testament of His faithfulness to His promises…

…promises that are fulfilled not just in historical happenings, but in the reality of Christ’s kingdom, already present and yet fully coming.

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Hearing, Believing, Calling: Proclaiming Salvation to All [Romans 10:14-21]

April 7, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 04/07/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 10:14-21

Description:  

How can one believe in the One of whom they have not heard??
…And how can they hear without someone preaching to them??

Today on Scanida Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which Paul presents a compelling reminder of our responsibility to share the Good News.

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But it’s more than just speaking words: it’s about the universal need for people to hear and respond to the Word.

For it is the transformative power of the gospel that will reach every corner of the earth, calling all to salvation.

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Sunrise Service 2024: I Am the Resurrection [John 11:25-27]

March 31, 2024

Sermon Notes

Date: 03/31/2024, Easter Sunday

Preacher: David Teves, deacon

Key Text: John 11:25-27

Description:

I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die.

Do you believe this?

… the words of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to Martha.

And welcome to our 2024 Easter Sunrise Service for Scandia Bible Church — held in its traditional location, at the lovely waterside home of Elder Keith Barker.

This morning Deacon David Teves shares a message regarding a different resurrection — the one in which Jesus raised His friend, Lazarus, from the dead.

But in doing so He explained to Martha that *He* was the resurrection… and Martha not only believed Him but said as much.

What about you?

Do YOU believe this?

That’s the real question to ponder this morning.

…For your answer means everything.

 

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Listen to the 2024 Easter Sermon — delivered by Pastor Monty Simao


The Triumphal Entry [John 12:12-19]

March 24, 2024

Sermon Notes

Date: 03/23/2024, Palm Sunday

Preacher: David Teves, deacon

Key Text: John 12:12-19

Description:

They hailed Him, King!

…the king who had come to save them —the Jewish people— from the oppression of the Romans.

But, instead (fulfilling Old Testament prophecy), Jesus —just five days before what would be Good Friday— humbly entered Jerusalem, not on a white steed, but a gray donkey… symbolizing peace, not war.

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Today on this Palm Sunday, Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Deacon David Teves examines a passage that most just see as a historical account of the path Jesus took to the cross. But is it more than that?

Does this passage have relevancy for US today?

…And if so, how can we apply it to our lives?

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The Simplicity of the Gospel: “Everyone Who Calls” [Romans 10:9-13]

March 10, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 03/10/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 10:9-13

Description:  

How can something so profound… be so incredibly simple??

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans and shows us how the Apostle Paul — in just a few verses  distills the monumental truths of faith, confession, and the boundless reach of God’s salvation.

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It’s a message that transcends time, culture, and circumstance, inviting everyone, everywhere, to a life-changing encounter with the God of grace…

…for whoever calls.

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The Righteousness Within Reach: No Distant Savior [Romans 10:5-8]

March 3, 2024

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Monty Simao 2014Sermon Notes

Date: 03/03/2024

Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor

Series: Romans

Key Text: Romans 10:5-8

Description:  

It’s closer than you think.

Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast, Pastor Monty Simao continues with our study in the book of Romans in which we are confronted with a startling truth:

When it comes to our spiritual needs, our world has conditioned us to search for complex solutions; when, in fact, the righteousness that leads to salvation is closer than we think.

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For it’s not about lofty achievements or rigorous adherence to law: it’s about faith, belief, and confession — elements deeply woven into the fabric of our being.

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