Focal Point

Pastor Mike Fabarez

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What’s the Deal with St. Nicholas? Part 2

December 14, 2012
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The Truth About Christmas
For followers of Jesus, the person of Santa Claus is a perplexing figure. Based on history, but embellished by fiction, the myth of jolly ol’ St. Nick is seen by many as a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez cuts through the cultural trappings that surround this hero of the faith to reveal a model of love and generosity worth following.

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Does the Lord Seem Far Off?
The Psalms speak to the human heart drawing us to worship and thankfulness in times of plenty and comforting us in times of trouble and distress. But what if you could uncover even more richness from God's songbook by understanding the context and intent of the psalmist? Now you can. Be sure to request the book Psalms: Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert L. Alden with your generous donation this month.
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The Truth About ChristmasTwo figures have dominated our modern Christmas celebration. One is the historical Jesus--the Son of God, who came to redeem mankind. The other personality is an amalgamation of myths--a jolly old elf who wears red, hands out gifts and lives in an extreme northern region. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez separates fact from fiction with a historic look back at the man we know as Santa Claus. It’s a biography of a saint, who truly honored Christ.
December 13, 2012
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Genuine Joy & Peace Regardless of December ChallengesIn many ways, the first Christmas didn’t appear so merry. There was the burden of looming taxes, a pregnant teen, a long and dangerous journey to an unknown town, and no vacancy in the inn. But in spite of these situations, the very first Christmas was filled with joy! On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez shares that no matter how bad our circumstances this year, we can still know peace and joy this holiday season.
December 12, 2012
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Genuine Joy & Peace Regardless of December ChallengesChristmas is a seasonal reminder that there is joy, peace, love, and hope in our world. But for many people, the family problems, the financial worries or the busyness of the holidays push away all the peace and goodwill. And what’s left is anything but a “Merry” Christmas! On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez draws timely encouragement from God’s Word to assure us that joy is possible this season. In fact, we have every reason to be glad!
December 11, 2012
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Putting the “Deo” Back in ChristmasEverywhere we go this month, the air is filled with Christmas carols. We hear everything from seasonal classics like “Jingle Bells to Christian hymns like “Silent Night.” The words are very familiar, but do we understand what these timeless refrains mean? On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez takes a look at a well-known Christmas melody to reveal the meaning and the challenge behind the lyrics. This simple song is a helpful reminder about what makes the season so joyful.
December 10, 2012
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Putting the “Deo” Back in ChristmasEverywhere we go this month, the air is filled with Christmas carols. We hear everything from seasonal classics like “Jingle Bells to Christian hymns like “Silent Night.” The words are very familiar, but do we understand what these timeless refrains mean? On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez takes a look at a well-known Christmas melody to reveal the meaning and the challenge behind the lyrics. This simple song is a helpful reminder about what makes the season so joyful.
December 7, 2012
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Three Things to Give Christ This ChristmasWhat would the Christmas story be without the wise men? These learned men from the Far East travelled hundreds of miles to bring Jesus expensive and extravagant gifts. And while you and I might not be able to bring gold, Frankincense, or Myrrh, all of us have the opportunity to give Jesus something far more valuable. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez lists three things we can offer our Savior this Christmas.
December 6, 2012
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Three Things to Give Christ This ChristmasIt seems like everybody has someone on their Christmas list who’s especially difficult to shop for. Maybe they already have everything they need, or they’re very particular about the gifts they want! Well, what if Jesus was on our list? What could we possibly give the Creator of the universe that He doesn’t already have? On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez explores some helpful passages that give us a hint about what we can offer God this year.
December 5, 2012
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Learning the Art of Godly CompassionIn contrast to the world’s definition of love, Jesus modeled true compassion. Sometimes this meant offering a kind word. Other times, it meant a stern rebuke! And then He instructed His followers to go out and love others in the same way. But that’s not always an easy task. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez explains how to combine truth and grace as we follow Jesus’ example of compassion.
December 4, 2012
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Learning the Art of Godly CompassionA kind word. A pat on the back. Maybe a gift to cheer or comfort someone. These are typical actions that we equate with loving other people. But what about a stern warning, an uncomfortable confrontation, or a challenge to change? Could these be displays of love as well? On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez concludes a twenty-seven week study in the book of 1 Corinthians. It’s God’s definition of true compassion, found in 1 Corinthians 16.
December 3, 2012
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Guarding the Progress You’ve MadeFrom the moment we first put our faith in God to the day we eventually meet Him face to face in heaven, it’s a long and often difficult journey. In our daily walk with God we’ll be faced with a number of struggles. And if we’re not careful, those problems can leave us feeling discouraged and beaten. On this edition of Focal Point, Mike Fabarez shares some practical ways we can not only survive this life, but thrive!   
November 30, 2012
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Featured Offer

Does the Lord Seem Far Off?
The Psalms speak to the human heart drawing us to worship and thankfulness in times of plenty and comforting us in times of trouble and distress. But what if you could uncover even more richness from God's songbook by understanding the context and intent of the psalmist? Now you can. Be sure to request the book Psalms: Everyday Bible Commentary by Robert L. Alden with your generous donation this month.
Request Yours More resources

About Focal Point

Focal Point is the Bible teaching ministry of author and pastor Mike Fabarez. Focal Point explores and proclaims the depths of Scripture on its daily radio broadcast and is dedicated to clearly explaining the truth of God’s Word.

About Pastor Mike Fabarez

Mike Fabarez is the founding pastor of Compass Bible Church in South Orange County, California and has been in pastoral ministry for more than 30 years. He is committed to clearly communicating God’s word verse-by-verse and encourages his listeners to apply what they have learned to their daily lives.

Pastor Mike is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Talbot School of Theology (M.A.) and Westminster Theological Seminary in California (D.Min.).

Mike is heard on hundreds of radio programs across the country on the Focal Point radio program and has authored several books, including Raising Men Not Boys, Lifelines for Tough Times, Preaching That Changes Lives, Getting It Right, Praying for Sunday, and Why the Bible?

Mike and his wife, Carlynn, reside in Laguna Hills, California and they have three children, Matthew, John and Stephanie.

Contact Focal Point with Pastor Mike Fabarez

Mailing Address
Focal Point
P.O. Box 2850 
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
 
Telephone
1-888-320-5885